Costa Blanca South 4 – 10 July 2024 Issue 2035

Market boom

THE cost of housing in Alicante Province has seen a significant rise of 10.5 per cent over the past year, with the average price now at €1,401 per square metre.

These figures are according to the latest data from the Idealista price index.

This increase underscores a growing trend in the region’s real estate market, with notable differences observed across various municipalities.

Relleu tops the list with a staggering price increase of 32.6 per cent from the previous year.

Following closely are Hondón de los Frailes with a 32.1 per cent rise and Los Montesinos with a 22.2 per cent increase.

These areas have experienced substantial appreciation in the used housing market, largely driven by increasing demand and limited availability.

Conversely, some municipalities have seen a decline in housing prices.

Salinas recorded a decrease of 5.1 per cent, and Benijofar saw a 4.8 per cent drop, indicating a slight cooling off compared to the overall provincial trend.

In Alicante City, the price of used housing surged by 16.9 per cent in the last year, reaching €2,092 per square metre.

This sharp increase highlights the city’s high demand and limited supply, maintaining its status as one of the province’s most active real estate markets.

Idealista spokesperson Francisco Iñareta remarks that the primary challenge in the current real estate market is the scarcity of available properties.

“The shortage of new homes for sale exerts upward pressure on prices, particularly in the most desirable areas,” he explains.

On a national scale, the price of used housing in Spain climbed by 7.5 per cent over the last year, reaching €2,138 per square metre.

Costa Blanca South • Issue No. 2035 • 4 - 10 July 2024

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Duke’s legacy

DofE PROGRAMME: This year 49 students are participating.

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.

This is the third year the school has offered it, with 38 other students having participated in previous years.

The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, started the DofE programme to help young people develop

practical and personal skills beyond the classroom.

His goal was to build self-reliance, resilience, and a sense of community among youth.

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, promoting resilience and perseverance.

These qualities are valuable for participants’ resumes, and some UK universities even grant credit for completing the Gold Award.

For many, the award serves as a stepping stone into the professional world.

Tourist routes

ORIHUELA has organised Tourist Routes for July and August. Councillor for Tourism, Gonzalo Montoya, said, “We’ve prepared summer activities on the Orihuela coast for both residents and visitors.” On July 4 at 8.30pm, there is the Night Route ‘The Birth River and the Mystery of the Nightingale’.

On July 18 at 7.30pm, enjoy ‘The Flamenco Route along the Orihuela Coast’. On July 21 at 8.00pm, the route is ‘The Last Bastion of the Protected Flora of Orihuela’.

In August, the programme continues with more routes.

On August 1 at 9.00pm, there is the Night Route ‘Moths and Flora in the Light of the Moon in Punta de la Glea’.

On August 16 at 7.30pm, the route is ‘An Oasis of Biodiversity’.

On August 22 at 7.00pm, the route is ‘Explore Cabo Roig: Between Fossil Beaches and Unique Flora in the Mediterranean’.

Additionally, a Candlelight Concert will be held on July 27 at 9.30pm on the Playa Flamenca Esplanade, providing a musical evening by the sea.

COSTA: Several routes will take place in July and August.

Image: The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award / Facebook

ORIHUELA

Global greetings

SAN FULGENCIO received a visit from Hugh Elliott, the UK Ambassador to Spain, on June 29. After his visit, the mayor said: “We want to thank Hugh Elliott for his visit and will continue working to ensure that all our UK residents feel at home here.”

Beachside beats

ORIHUELA’S Playa Flamenca Esplanade will host yoga, bachata and Zumba classes on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, in both the morning and afternoon. These classes are open to everyone, free of charge. For more details, visit orihuelaturistica. es or WhatsApp (+34) 673 836 385.

Tourist troopers

THE province of Alicante will add an extra 149 National Police officers to its squad on the occasion of Operation Summer, which began on July 1 and will last until August 31. Chief Commissioner Manuel Lafuente highlighted the importance of tourists feeling safe.

A hidden gem

TABARCA, the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, lies 11 nautical miles o the coast of Alicante, near Cape Santa Pola.

In reality, it is more of a small archipelago, including the islets of La Cantera, La Galera, and La Nao in addition to Tabarca itself.

The island spans approximately 1,800 metres in length and has a maximum width of about 400 metres.

While it is known as Tabarca today, it was called Planesia by the Greeks and Planaria by the Romans.

During the Middle Ages, it was referred to as the Flat Island of San Pablo,

due to the legend that the apostle Paul landed there.

The colonisation of Tabarca began in the late 18th century and was renamed Nueva Tabarca.

this period, se-

families from the island of Tabarka, located o the coast of Tunisia, settled there.

Tabarca treasures

ONE of the best activities on the island is touring its old town.

Its narrow, cobbled streets, lled with the scent of salt air, lead you to old shermen’s houses and local restaurants.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, an architectural gem dating back to the 18th century.

Additionally, you can explore the Nueva Tabarca Museum, which delves into the history of the island and its inhabitants.

A visit to the Torre de San José is essential during your stay in Tabarca.

This old fortress, commissioned by royal order to Baltasar Ricoud in 1790, is situated in the central part of the island in an uninhabited area.

The tower played a crucial role in defence and surveillance.

Although it is not open to the public, the Torre de San José stands as a historical monument and a must-see for those wishing to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Tabarca.

Another essential landmark in Tabarca is its lighthouse, built in the 19th century, located at the northern end of the island.

Traditional cooking

UPON arriving on the island of Tabarca, visitors can delight in the excellent eateries o ering the island’s traditional dish, ‘el Caldero’.

This exquisite dish began its journey in the 1970s at a small beach bar on the island called ‘El Mar Azul’.

‘El Caldero’ is a complete meal served in two courses: one featuring sh and the other rice, providing a unique gastronomic experience distinct from typical rice dishes and paellas.

The name ‘Caldero’ translates to ‘cauldron’.

The dish is named after the vessel in which it is prepared, a deep cast iron cauldron with a handle, ideal for hanging from a tripod over a re.

In this cauldron, both the fumet ( sh broth) and the rice are cooked, a method historically used by shermen.

There are numerous recipes for ‘el Caldero’ as it evolved in the 18th century with the spread of rice cultivation throughout the Spanish Levant, incorporating seafood from various coastal areas.

Alicante Tourist Board features a recipe for ‘el Caldero’ on its website, which suggests making four cuts on each side of the sh and salting it. However, it includes potatoes, but the traditional recipe does not.

Coastal paradise

THE best way to reach the island of Tabarca, if you don’t have your own boat, is by using the famous ‘Tabarqueras’, or taxi boats.

These boats depart from several locations, including Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja and Santa Pola.

The quickest route departs from Santa Pola, taking about 25 minutes to reach Tabarca. If you depart from the port of Alicante, the journey takes roughly one hour.

Upon arriving in Tabarca, the rst thing that will captivate you is its stunning coastline with crystal-clear waters.

These settlers built the town and its defences.

The defences were constructed to protect against pirate attacks from North Africa.

These pirates, of Arab origin, targeted Christian ships and plundered coastal areas.

In the early 19th century, Tabarca began to experience depopulation, primarily due to water scarcity and infertile land.

However, shing activities later revitalised the island and today, approximately 60 Tabarquinos live on the island.

Tabarca boasts several beaches along its coast. You can relax on the main beach, known as Levante or Tabarca Beach, and bask in the sun while enjoying the seascape.

For a more tranquil experience, explore some of the quieter coves and beaches.

Don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear, as the waters around Tabarca host an impressive marine ecosystem.

Tabarca is renowned for its marine reserve, which encircles the island. In this reserve, you can observe sea turtles and various types of sh.

During

veral Genoese

Tabarca, a small archipelago.

Classic Car Club

THE Torrevieja Classics and Specialists Car Club is now in its 18th year, boasting a membership of 41 owners of both classic and specialist cars.

The club is fortunate to still have one original member, Albino Careiro, who owns a Mazda.

In February, the club embarked on its annual Almond Blossom Run, ending in Hondon de los Frailes.

In March, the members enjoyed a run around the Blue Lake, ending at San Miguel. April’s event was a run to the Santuari de Santa Maria Magdalena in Novelda, finishing in Hondon.

In May, the club took a trip to Torrellano via the Fondo National Park and the Santa Pola Lighthouse.

The run concluded in Torrellano, where members enjoyed a meal and a visit to the Train Museum. Many members had a great time riding the mini train.

June’s run, the last for the first half of the year, took the club around the favourite Blue Lake, finishing at Patio Andaluz in Punta Prima.

All events have been very well attended, with around 24 members and a few friends participating.

The club looks forward to the next six months.

For more information, the club has a website and a Facebook group, both under the club’s name, where information about the club, as well as N332 and DGT information, is published.

Underworld beauty

THE Vega Baja coastli ne is home to a diverse array of marine life, beautifully captu red by photographer Julio Jesús Añel.

His high-quality photographs reveal the vibrant underwater world, featuring species such as the Borracho Peineta, Rock Octopus, Salpa, and Green Fish.

Añel describes the Borracho Peineta (Scartella cristata) as a blenny fish commonly found in rocky coastal areas, notable for its large head and colourful, scaleless skin.

The Rock Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), known for its intelligence and ability to solve puzzles and use tools, can also regenerate its arms.

The Salpa (Sarpa salpa) is iconic to the

Mediterranean, often seen grazing on Posidonia meadows in large schools.

The Green Fish (Thalassoma pavo) is distinguished by its hand-painted appearance and hermaphroditic nature, allowing it to change from female to male.

The Mastral Torrevieja Project recently showcased Añel’s photographs, highlighting the stunning marine

These images allow us to appreciate the incredible diversity and beauty of the underwater world in this region. To take a look at the stunning photographs captured head to the Facebook page: Proyecto Mastral - El Tiempo en Torrevieja.

BEWARE of scams!

The IT Department of the Alicante Provincial Council is warning the public about a series of fraudulent messages claiming to be from the DGT (Spanish Traffic Authority), falsely reminding recipients about outstanding fines. It’s crucial not to click on any links provided in these messages. Instead, always access official sources directly, either by calling the DGT, visiting its official website, or going to their office in person.

The Provincial Council confirmed: “Cybercriminals can impersonate any organisation or even someone you know, so it’s essential to remain cautious and verify the authenticity of any unexpected messages or calls.”

“If you receive suspicious communications, consider reporting them as spam to prevent further dissemination to others (using the ‘options’ drop-down menu).

“When in doubt, contact the police for assistance.”

fauna off the coasts of Torrevieja and Orihue -

Competitive spirit

SAILING EVENT: Each race highlighted the sailors’ skill and determination.

VIANA DO CASTELO, Portugal, recently hosted a significant sailing event, drawing participation from 51 countries, represented by 427 sailors, 108 coaches, and over 900 supporters.

The Viana do Castelo Yacht Club, with its extensive 6,000 square metres of facilities, three stands, and numerous volunteers, served as an excellent venue for the competition.

During the event, sai-

lors from Real Club Nautico Torrevieja - David, Carlota, and Leo - navigated the challenging weather conditions with exceptional adaptability and skill, delivering thrilling performances on the water despite the obstacles.

The final day of competition commenced at 10.40am on July 1, with the D flags of the Men’s Gold and Women’s Gold fleets signalling the start of the races.

Competitors contended with a steady wind blowing from 330º, which initially clocked in at 13 knots and increased to 17 knots by the third race. All fleets completed three races throughout the day.

Each race highlighted the sailors’ skill and determination as they expertly manoeuvred their boats along the course, demonstrating remarkable precision and competitive spirit.

Symbol of thought

THE Alicante Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG) has launched a new exhibition featuring a selection of pieces from Candela Álvarez Soldevilla’s ‘Studiolo’ Collection. The exhibition will be on display until February 2025.

This exhibition showcases works by prominent contemporary artists from both national and international scenes.

Centred around the head as a symbol of thought, the exhibition offers a novel and reflective take on the museum’s permanent collection. It occupies the lobby and the first floor of MUBAG, creating a dialogue with the permanent collection titled ‘The 19th Century: The Collection in the Light’.

Titled ‘Studiolo: A Look at the Collection of Candela A. Soldevilla,’ the exhibition features 36 pie -

ces, including 30 sculptures, four drawings, one oil painting, and one photograph, created by 31 artists from various periods and styles.

The collection ranges from a 1918 bronze sculpture by Egon Schiele to a 2024 painting by Rosalía Banet, encompassing a wide array of techniques and themes, all centred on the depiction of the head.

MUBAG is located at Calle Gravina, 13 - 15 in Alicante.

Image: Real Club Náutico Torrevieja

New exhibition launched.

ON Saturday, July 6, Elda’s Plaza Castelar will host the Emdiv Festival.

The festival is a free event and features a diverse lineup of indie bands and DJs for more than 12 hours of continuous entertainment.

12-hour party Beach bus

evening, the rest of the bands and DJs will take the stage.

The schedule kicks off in the morning with performances by local bands Loud at 11.30am and Diagnosis Binario at 1.00pm.

In the afternoon and

The festival’s lineup is headlined by Amatria, Los Punsetes, Diagnomía Binario, Los Invaders, Loud, Mi Capitán, and Controversial Chinaski. Additionally, DJs such as Morini, Vic Drumset, and Vincent Valera will be performing.

THE month has begun, and Guardamar del Segura has announced its new municipal agenda for July.

The programme features a variety of activities, including the 21st Musical Exchange Concert Campaign, exhibitions, children’s workshops, and a Street Food Market.

Additionally, the renowned Moors and Christians Festivals, celebrated in honour of San Jaime from July 19 to 28 and declared of Regional Tourist Interest, will also take place.

Pilar Gay, the councillor for Culture, highlighted some key events in this extensive programme.

Controversial Chinaski will perform at 6.20pm, followed by Emdiv’s DJs at 7.00pm Mi Capitán will go on at 7.30pm, and Vincent Valera will take over at 8.30pm.

Los Punsetes will perform at 9.40pm, fo -

A notable mention includes the Summer Concert by the John Paul II Choir on Saturday, July 13 at the Music School.

llowed by Morini at 10.45pm, Amatria’s set will start at 11.55pm, with Vic Drumset performing at 1.00am and Los Invaders closing the night at 2.00am.

The festival is expected to conclude at 3.00am. As in the previous year, there will be two stages, with performances taking place in the shell area and the DJ area.

For heritage enthusiasts, the council offers ‘Memoria de Arena’ guided tours every Saturday at 9.30am. The tours provide an opportunity to explore the archaeological sites of Rábita and Fonteta and uncover the secrets of the Guardamar pine forest.

Visitors can also tour the castle, the archaeological museum, and the Ingeniero Mira House Museum.

Further information, as well as booking invitations or purchasing tickets, can be found on the website: agendaguardamar.com .

Why go through the hassle of driving and finding parking when you can enjoy the convenience of the bus service?

The bus will make stops at Calles Amsterdam with Berna (Marquesina pools), C/ Rome (Bus stop), Avda. London (Palmeras), and Plaza Sierra Castilla (Marquesina bus).

Tickets are priced at only €2 per trip. For greater savings, you can purchase a 30trip bonus for just €42, which offers a 30 per cent discount.

SAN FULGENCIO Town Hall is excited to announce the revival of its Beach Bus Service from Urb. Marina!

Take the local bus to the beach.

Silver surge

THE National Institute of Statistics (INE) forecasts significant demographic changes for the province of Alicante over the next 15 years.

This forecast includes an accelerated ageing of its population.

The number of centenarians is expected to nearly quadruple, rising from 410 today to approximately 1,593 by 2039, assuming life expectancy continues to increase.

Additionally, out of the projected 2.45 million residents in Alicante by 2039, an increase of almost half a million, 28 per cent will be over 65 years old, coinciding with the retirement of the ‘Baby Boom’ generation.

This demographic ageing will be partially mitigated by international migration.

By 2039, slightly over

one million residents, or nearly 41 per cent of the population, will be foreign-born, compared to the current 27.58 per cent.

The number of residents born in Spain is expected to remain stable at around 1.45 million.

The influx of working-age immigrants and their families will contribute to a gradual increase in the birth rate.

This year, about 13,500 children are expected to be born in the Alicante

region, with projections reaching around 18,600 births by 2039.

By then, approximately 95,000 children aged 0 to four will live in the province.

Life expectancy at birth in Spain is about 81 years for men and over 86 for women.

A man turning 65 today can expect to live an additional 19 years on average, while a woman can expect more than 23 additional years.

Image: Tint Media

GROWING OLDER: Numbers are increasing.

ORIHUELA is set to enjoy a summer under the stars with a series of concerts throughout July and August at the city’s María Moliner Library.

The lineup includes a mix of chamber music, theatre, and dance performances.

The series kicked off on

The Concerts Under the Stars programme features a diverse array of musical and artistic disciplines, taking place weekly, primarily on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9.30pm.

Wednesday, July 3, with the concert ‘La Leyenda de la Armengola’.

It will be followed by a flamenco recital featuring the talented dancer Abril

Alfonso on July 10.

On July 23, an evening dedicated to film music will take place, and on July 31, the El Latido Teatral Association will present the

Enjoy the summer.

play ‘Amor en Autumn’. August’s schedule begins with ‘Piano Night’ on August 7, and on August 13, World Clarinet Day will be celebrated with performances of pieces and adaptations specially written for the clarinet.

The cycle will conclude with a ‘Noche de Zarzuela’ on August 21 and the ‘Noche de la Flute Travesera’ on August 28.

The councillor for Culture Gonzalo Montoya emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “We are very excited to present for the first time the ‘Concerts Under the Stars,’ a series of musical events that will illuminate the summer nights in the city of Orihuela.”

Under the Stars More money for charity Artisan

WITH the thought of children going without breakfast during the long school holidays, fundraisers David and Lorraine

THE Agost Pottery Museum has been awarded the distinction of ‘Artisan Spaces’ by the Crafts Centre of the Valencian Community.

The award comes under a new initiative aimed at uniting various venues across the community dedicated to showcasing, promoting, and preserving crafts.

Mari Paz Prieto Torres, the Cultural councillor for Agost, expressed great satisfaction with this recognition, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to integrate into a network that connects artisan museums with society at large.

She emphasised that receiving this distinction highlights the cultural heritage and rich pottery legacy of Agost.

Whitney spread the word for the charity ‘Donacions Torreveija Alrededores’ in the hope of raising funds.

The response was terrific with a €100 donation from good friends, with ‘The Melody Makers’ performing at the Marina Bar raising a further €204. During the last few weeks the Marina Bar again have been busy raising €496.64 with the help of Mary Flynn and Rita Monaghan giving a grand total of €800.64 so far.

A big thank you to everybody who has kindly donated to this worthwhile charity who help the poor and homeless in the area.

Another disappointing day

THE second round of the Carp-R-Us Summer/Autumn series was fished on the Eden 2 stretch of the Rio Segura. The river was bank high but with a steady flow, if a little coloured and the match started with everyone confident of catching fish. Again, this was not the case and the match was a struggle for most.

Clear winner from peg 7 was Steve Fell who had 9.06kg caught alternating between traditional pole and bread and pole feeder and corn. Second was Tony Felstead from peg 4 who had 3.58kg caught on maggot. Third was Russ Davidson with 0.98kg from peg 5 and fourth was Roy Dainty with 0.42kg. All in all, another disappointing day on the river.

Information about the club can be found on its website http://www. carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

Image. Ayuntamiento de Orihuela

From left to right David Whitney, Max the sloth, Lorraine Whitney and Amina from Donacions Torevieja.

Whether you have bank savings, a share portfolio or own investment property, understand how this capital and income is taxed in Spain. Residents are liable to local tax on worldwide income, gains and wealth; non-residents are liable on assets owned in Spain.

Interest, dividends, capital gains etc

Income is split into two categories in Spain, with different tax treatment. The savings income category covers:

• interest income

• dividends

• capital gains on the sale/transfer of assets (property, shares, securities etc)

• income from life assurance contracts

• purchased annuity income

All income that falls into any of these categories is combined and taxed at progressive rates:

Up to €6,000 – 19%

€6,000 to €50,000 - 21%

€50,000 to €200,000 – 23%

€200,000 to €300,000 – 27%

Over €300,000 – 28%

For residents, gains made on the sale of real estate is taxed as above, but property meeting the main home criteria is exempt. Non-residents pay tax at a flat 19%.

How investment capital and income is taxed in Spain

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

Investment losses can be set off against other savings income gains, with a specific order.

Life assurance contracts

An approved life assurance policy, where you hold investments within its ‘wrapper’, can provide tax advantages in Spain. Income and capital gains rolled up within the policy are not subject to tax, while only the gain element of withdrawals is subject to tax.

Take specialist advice to establish if these arrangements are suita-

ble for you and how you could potentially benefit.

Rental income

Rental income is classed as general income and taxed at the scale rates of income tax. In Murcia, they start at 19% for income up to €12,450 and reach 47% for income over €300,000.

Spanish residents get a 60% reduction against the net rental income, provided the property is used as a main home. This includes long lets outside Spain.

Other EU/EEA residents are taxed on net rental income from Spanish property at a flat 19%. NonEU/EEA residents pay 24% tax on gross income.

If you own a property that is not your main home, a notional rental income is deemed to arise for periods where the property is not let to a third party and taxed as above.

Wealth taxes

The value of your worldwide as-

sets is added up on an annual basis and if the total exceeds the available allowances, you are subject to the wealth tax rules. Murcia has increased the individual allowance from €700,000 to €3,700,000. If, however, your wealth, exceeds €4,000,000, you may be liable for solidarity tax.

Spanish exit tax

If you have a large investment portfolio and leave Spain to become tax resident elsewhere, you may have to pay Spanish tax on unrealised capital gains arising from your holdings.

This applies if you have been Spanish tax resident for 10 out of the 15 years preceding departure, and the shares’ market value surpasses €4,000,000, or total shareholdings exceed 25% and their market value exceeds €1,000,000.

Tax planning

Living in Spain offers many benefits, but as anywhere, there are

some drawbacks and a key concern for many people is the local tax regime. But you don’t necessarily need to fear Spanish taxation and may even find you improve your tax situation by becoming resident. The tax regime presents tax mitigation opportunities; how you hold assets and take income from them can make a significant difference to your tax bill. Take specialist, personalised advice to establish how to improve your tax situation in Spain.

The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevins franks.com.

Festival finale

ON August 6, the Hort de Baix will host the final of Elche’s Song Festival competition.

This year marks its fourth anniversary, and admission is free until the venue reaches full capacity.

Inma Mora, the councillor for Festivities, highlighted that the festival will feature numerous Spanish artists, among whom the finalists of this increasingly established competition in the city will emerge.

Manuel Ramos, the festival’s director, expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “It is a great opportunity and honour to continue fostering young talent in our city and province.”

He noted that artists who have participated in the festival have gone on to make a national impact.

Registration for the contest opened on July 1.

The competition will have two categories: Youth (8-15 years old) and Adult (16-25 years old).

Oriana Quintero, the festival organiser, explained that those interested in participating should submit a video of themselves singing for at least one minute to festi valdelacancionfestesdelx@ gmail.com.

The jury comprises professionals from music, visual arts, and performing arts.

HOP aboard the Orihuela Costa Tourist Train for a lovely scenic journey from Playa Flamenca to Campoamor!

Thel train tour showcases the beauty of Orihuela Costa, making stops at top beaches and tourist attractions, including Zenia Boulevard (the largest shopping centre in the Alicante province).

Tickets are priced at €6 for unlimited daily travel, allowing you the flexibility to hop on and off at your leisure.

Relax and take in the beautiful vistas of the Costa Blanca as you travel along the coastal route.

The service operates on weekdays until August 30.

The train is wheelchair accessible and welcomes dogs.

EWN welcomes contributions from local groups, associations, and communities.

If you have upcoming events, press releases, or news tips, please send them to editorial@euroweekly news.com. Your stories and events matter to us, and we strive to reflect the diverse interests of our readership. Euro Weekly News (EWN) stands out as the preferred source of news for expat communities across Spain. With a commitment to delivering

what readers want, EWN prides itself on being the people’s paper. Whether you’re interested in local happenings in Spain, UK news, or global stories, EWN covers it all. What sets EWN apart is its reach and influence. With approximately half a million print readers weekly and over 1.5 million web views per month, EWN boasts the largest readership of any English-language newspaper in Spain.

Each week, the paper publishes over 150 news stories in print, complemented by hundreds more online.

In its 25-year history, EWN has garnered several prestigious awards, including Best Free Newspaper of the Year at the Premios AEEPP and Company of the Year at the Costa del Sol Business Awards.

These accolades underscore EWN’s commitment to excellence in journalism and community engagement.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Elche

Festival finale

Enjoy a lovely scenic journey.

Image: Tren Turistica Orihuela

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

Senegal travel boom Irish tourist’s Magaluf death

Trelawney Bresic SOLFERIAS, a leading Portuguese tour operator, is experiencing a boom in travel to Senegal, according to Director Nuno Mateus. While traditional favourites Cape Verde

and Paris hold the top two spots, Senegal has seen a dramatic rise in popularity in recent years.

This surge is attributed to the opening of the Riu Baobab resort. “We launched charters, and Sene -

gal grew exponentially,” Mateus explains.

“There was a revolution in terms of demand from Portugal due to this hotel’s opening.”

Solferias highlights the importance of good air connections for destinations to thrive. “A destination without good connections may have some demand, but it ends up being marginal,” says Mateus.

Meanwhile, Lusanova, another Portuguese travel agency, reports a different trend. Their clients prioritise domestic destinations like the Azores and Madeira, alongside European countries like Italy, France, and Germany. For long-haul trips, Southeast Asia, India, and

South America are in high demand.

Lusanova’s Operational Director, Tiago Encarnacao, observes a shift in traveller behaviour - “People are more conscious of their travel choices, opting for higher quality destinations and products,” he says.

These contrasting trends showcase the diverse preferences of Portuguese travellers. While Solferias caters to those seeking exotic getaways with improved accessibility, Lusanova focuses on European adventures and high-quality domestic experiences.

A 45-YEAR-OLD Irish tourist on holiday in Mallorca died tragically early Monday morning, July 1. Authorities believe he sustained injuries before his death.

The man’s body, found near Punta Ballena on Carrer Martín Ros García, showed injuries consistent with a hit-and-run incident. Investigators say the tourist, who holidayed with his family, may have consumed significant amounts of alcohol and drugs on Sunday night.

Around 4.30am, a shop worker witnessed the man stumble and collapse. Despite resuscitation efforts by Local Police and medical personnel, he died at the scene.

An initial examination revealed leg injuries suggestive of a hit-and-run, bite marks on the shoulders, and a small piece of glass lodged in the back.

The Guardia Civil’s Judicial Police believe the tourist was involved in a fight before being struck by a car. Despite the altercation and potential substance use, investigators are awaiting a post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death. They suspect a combination of the fight and intoxication may have led to the man’s collapse.

Authorities are collecting witness statements and reviewing security footage from the area to piece together the events leading to the tragedy.

The Riu Baobab resort in Senegal.

Credit: Riu Baobab/fb

July sees flight seat increase

Talyta Franca, Class 2026, North western University in Qatar

SPAIN expects 12.5 million seats on international flights for July 2024, according to Turespaña’s latest data.

This marks a 9.5 per cent increase from July 2023, which saw 11.4 mi llion seats.

Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, said the increase in planned seats on international flights is compared to last year’s predictions.

“A very positi ve summer season for the sector. Spain is among the top preferences of international tourists, which indicates that the quality of our destinations is increasingly appreciated,” said Hereu in a La Moncloa report.

month in 2023, key markets show strong performance: the UK (+5.4 per cent), Germany (+7.4 per cent), Italy (+14.5 per cent), and France (+8.4 per cent).

Poland and the Czech Republic have seen substantial increases, with a 25 per cent rise in seats.

Additionally, the US market has grown by 17 per cent, and Nordic countries show progress with Finland up 10.1 per cent, Sweden 7.6 per cent, Denmark 3.3 per cent, and Norway 0.4 per cent as reported.

Sankt Hans Aften: Denmark’s Midsummer Celebration

SANKT HANS AFTEN, a vibrant Danish celebration held on the evening of June 23, marks the summer solstice. While it coincides with the feast of Saint John the Baptist (Sankt Hans), the celebration’s roots stretch back to Viking times.

Much like the Spanish San Juan festivities, bonfires are a central element. In Denmark, these bonfires serve as a symbol for the warding off of evil spirits, echoing a practice that stretches back centuries. People gather around these crackling flames, creating a warm and communal atmosphere.

witches in Germany.

Comparing July 2024 with the same

Mexico and Colombia lead in scheduled capacities for July 2024 among Latin American countries.

While San Juan often features bonfires for purification and good luck, a uniquely Danish twist comes with the tradition of straw witches. These effigies, a quirky addition that emerged in the 1920s, commemorate past witch burnings. Legend has it that when the witch burns, she takes flight to a mythical gathering of

The tradition of straw witches has a complex meaning. It might be seen as a way to reclaim the narrative. Witch hunts were a dark period in European history, and the burning of straw witches could be seen as a way to reclaim the narrative. By creating a light-hearted effigy and burning it, some believe it might be a way to acknowledge the past without glorifying it.

Following speeches, a sense of national pride fills the air as the Danish crowd joins in the song. ‘Vi Elsker

Vort Land’ (We Love Our Country) by Holger Drachmann has been the patriotic anthem associated with Sankt Hans since 1885, adding a layer of cultural significance to the festivities.

If you are in Copenhagen during Sankt Hans Aften, numerous locations offer free celebrations. Popular spots include Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Ofelia Plads, and Enghaveparken. So, immerse yourself in the spirit of community, and the unique traditions that make Sankt Hans Aften a special Danish experience.

Denmark blazes into summer.

Image: Shutterstock/ Michele Ursi

International flights rise.

Credit: Nicolas Vigier, Flickr

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 clo se on 6.3, followed by Sweden (6.1).

ding 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.

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, accor -

“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.

“Now, the gap between Finland and the other Nordic countries is growing even wi -

Cost-of-living is foremost amongst the Finns’ concerns, the survey found, with 59 per cent worrying each month about paying for essentials, compared with between 34 and 40 per cent in other Nordic countries.

Impact of AI on ‘Dr Google’

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.

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 instant feedback. Imagi

AI aiding self-diagnosis.

ne 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.

One company that has made a significant breakthrough in bringing self-diagnosis to fruition is Docus. Their AI-powe-

an AI health assistant, generate health reports, and get second opinions from top doctors in the US and Europe.

mits users to chat with

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.

FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE: Finns have more financial concerns than other Nordic citizens.

Photo credit: Pixabay/Byrev

Tell your boss

BUSINESSES with more than 100 employees in the Netherlands will now have to record how the staff travels to work, so as to reduce CO2 emissions.

The new law will have to be applied until 2027, after which goals will be set to reduce carbon emissions.

The measure is a result of the 2019 climate agreement, aiming to halve CO2 emissions by 49 per cent in 2030 and 95 per cent by 2050.

The mobility policy ins -

titute KiM found that most of the annual 40 billion kilometres to work are travelled by car, whereas only six billion km are travelled by public transport, four billion km by bikes and 200 million km by walking.

In a country whose outgoing PM Mark Rutte, travels to work by cycling and which has impressive infrastructure for cyclists and public transport users, the new law is expected to be easy to adhere to across the Ne -

therlands.

Researchers highlighted the importance of making this change, as 20 per cent to 25 per cent of emissions are currently due to work-related traffic.

The environmental organisation Natuur & Milieu, suggested the potential methods of adhering to the new regulation; “They could subsidise bikes or electric cars. Or make sure bus itineraries take in business parks, or take measures to facilitate working from home.”

Mark Rutte cycling to work.

Credit: Minister-president Rutte from Nederland, Wikicommons

Spain helps its neighbours

SPAIN is sending 313 police officers to Paris to provide extra security during the Paris Olympics which start on July 26.

Interior minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska explained during a reception for some of those who will soon be setting out for Paris that the French embassy had passed on the request for reinforcements during the Games earlier this year.

The contingent of 171 National Police officers and 142 Guardia Civil members will remain in Paris for the Paralympics which start on August 28 and continue until September 8. The officers include bomb disposal experts and canine units that specialise in sniffing out explosives France, which in the past has been subjected to mortal attacks by Islamic extremists, raised its security alert to the highest level following the attack on the

Moscow concert hall that killed at least 133 people in March. The Islamic State (IS) group later claimed responsibility for the carnage.

The authorities are particularly concerned about the Games’ four-hour opening ceremony which takes place in the heart of the city on the River Seine, with a waterborne procession of competing countries that involves 80 boats.

The six-kilometre route starts at Austerlitz bridge and finishes at Jena bridge near the Eiffel Tower. For once, huge crowds watching from the embankments will be close to the opening ceremony, which is open to the general public.

Approximately 45,000 police officers and gendarmes will be deployed in the Paris region for the event with the addition of 18,000 troops mobilised during the Games themselves.

Photo credit: interior.gob.es

OLYMPIC SECURITY: Some of the Spanish officers who will be present in Paris.

Are the Americans here to stay? Oh, yes!

FROM COAST TO COAST

BY:

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

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

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!

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

LUCCA 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.

Hard day’s work

Linda Hall WRITER’S cramp is a thing of the past thanks to computers, although they have their drawbacks too.

Back, neck and shoulder pains together with headaches, eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome and over-use of arms and hands all combine to take their toll.

And that’s nothing new.

Experts who examined the remains of 69 adult males interred between 2700 and 2180BC in Egypt’s Abusir necropolis found that 30 revealed specific, significant injuries.

All were scribes, as revealed by written documents found in their tombs.

When only 1 per cent of ancient Egyptians were literate, theirs was a privileged position, which nevertheless left its mark on their bodies.

Petra Brukner Havelko-

va from Prague’s National Museum explained that the lives of Egyptian scribes had been detailed in the past, although this was the first time their bones were examined for damage.

Known to have entered the profession as teenagers and conti nuing their work for decades, they would have sat cross-leg ged, knelt or squatted for long periods ‘hunched over pa

per and ink’, postures that affected the jaw, neck and shoulders.

The investigators believe that frequent jaw

dislocations were linked to the scribes’ habit of chewing rush pens to make a brush-like head while damage to the thumbs was associated to long-term gripping of pens.

“It was very likely scribes suffered from headaches at least occasionally,” Brukner Havelkova. “I wouldn’t be surprised if they also suffered from carpal tunnel syndrome on the hand, but unfortunately we can’t identify that on the bones,” she said.

Headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome? Some things never change.

EGYPTIAN SCRIBE:

Analysed remains revealed work-related injuries

Aviareps Spain

AVIAREPS SPAIN has been appointed as the general sales agent (GSA) for Caribbean Airlines in Spain. This strategic partnership is set to revolutionise the travel experience for Spanish customers, offering them more personalised and localised services, thereby enhancing their overall travel experience.

With this alliance, the airline is poised to significantly strengthen its foothold in the Spanish market. It will expand the airline’s sales network and improve service accessibility for Spanish customers.

General Sales Manager Cristina Cabal of Aviareps Spain said of the alliance, “It is an honour for Aviareps Spain to be appointed GSA of Caribbean Airlines. This partnership gives us an excellent opportunity to promote the airline’s incredible offers in Spain and to bring the charm of the Caribbean and strategic cities in the United States, Canada, Central and South America to travel agencies and tour operators,”

Caribbean Airlines, with the vision ‘To connect the Caribbean seamlessly and sustainably’, has been in operation since 2007. It operates more than 600 weekly flights, is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and is recognised as an IATA Operational Safety Audit-qualified airline. It has won several awards, including the World Travel Awards ‘Caribbean’s Leading Airline Brand’ for five consecutive years.

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 Amsterdam to com plete 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.

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

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.”

“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.”

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.

Kiki Groot.

Credit: El Mariquelo Facebook

El Mariquelo praying from the clock tower.

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

Sales tax on olive oil

X

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.

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

Olive oil display on Spanish supermarket shelves.

Credit: Bryan Allison, Flickr

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

Double the fun

Red Spanish Steps

IN a remarkable occurrence, Pollard Middle School in Needham, Massachusetts, saw 23 sets of twins graduate this June, comprising about 10 per cent of the eighth-grade class.

These identical and fraternal twins participated in the ‘moving up’ ceremony, an event headteacher Tamatha Bibbo described as “quite unusual.”

Typically, the school sees only five to 10 sets of twins per year.

“We have approximately 450 to 500 children in each grade, so having 23 sets of twins is extraordinarily high,” the headteacher remarked.

During the ceremony, the school gave a special shout-out to these twins, acknowledging their unique contribution to the graduating class.

Pollard Middle School

In addition to their academic achievements, all graduates of Pollard Middle School are required to complete up to 10 hours of service learning in their communities.

The Needham Exchange Club annually offers five community service awards to commend students’ efforts.

Interestingly, another student who is a twin also graduated, but her brother attends a different school.

According to the National Centre for Health Statistics, twins account for around 3 per cent of live births in the US.

This makes the Pollard Middle School’s twin count particularly noteworthy.

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’.

EIGHTH GRADE: Comprises 23 sets of twins who graduated.

Image:

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

Credit: Lapresse via AP

Time restored A check on unwanted attention

A PILOT scheme in Utrecht will authorise specially-trained street wardens to report any signs of sexual intimidation that they witness in the city.

Hissing, making sexual remarks, verbal intimidation or following people in public places could lead to prosecution under changes in sexual offences’ bylaws that come into force on July 1, city hall announced.

A 2022 investigation by the Statistics Netherlands (CBS) revealed that twothirds of young women are haras sed on Netherlands’ streets each year.

Wolf whistles, hissing and unwanted comments calls were the most frequent forms of harassment and a third of the women felt unsafe or afraid when this happened. A quarter of the women had been followed, with 85 per cent saying they had felt frightened and unsafe.

One in three men told the CBS they had experienced some form of harassment or intimidation while out walking.

Nevertheless, two-thirds of cases of verbal intimidation were repor ted by women aged between 18 and 21 although 70 per cent of girls in the 14 to 18 age group had

also been harassed.

“Sexual intimidation on the street is enormously humiliating and embarrassing to victims,” Utrecht mayor Sharon Dijksma said.

“I’m pleased that we have got new instruments to tackle the perpetrators and protect the victims.”

Nevertheless, police and the unions representing wardens have voiced concerns about the legislation.

Rotterdam brought in similar le

WOLFWHISTLING: Could end in prosecution in Utrecht.

THE silver pocket watch held deep sentimental value for Theodore Roosevelt, gifted to him in 1898 by his sister and brother-in-law before he became president.

This cherished timepiece accompanied him on his global travels and eventually found its place at Sagamore Hill, Roosevelt’s Long Island home and now a national historic site.

However, in 1987, the watch was stolen from an unlocked case at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site in Buffalo, New York, where it was on loan.

The mystery of its disappearance persisted for 36 years until it resurfaced at a Florida auction house last year, seized by federal agents.

During a ceremony attended by Roosevelt’s great-grandson, Tweed Roosevelt, the watch was triumphantly re -

turned to Sagamore Hill.

Despite its simple appearance, the watch held im mense sig nificance to Roosevelt, bearing en gravings com memorating its gift from his re lati ves.

The circum stances surrounding the watch’s reappearance remain shrouded in mystery.

Investigations by the National Park Service and FBI have yet to uncover who stole the watch and how it disappeared for so long.

Despite these unanswered questions, its authenticity was confirmed through meticu -

lous research and comparisons to historical records.

Crafted by the Waltham Watch Co, the watch resembles typical pocket watches of its era but carries personal significance with its engraved dedications.

NATO leader

THE outgoing Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, is about to become the new NATO secretary general, following a unanimous agreement of the 32 NATO members.

Since 2023, Rutte has been methodically working towards the position; in January 2023, he told US President, Joe Biden; “You have asked me twice to become secretary-general of NATO, and I turned you down twice. If you ask me a third time, I will say yes.”

Initially reluctant, Turkey nally supported Rutte and with opposition from Hungary left behind, as well as the Romanian president, Klaus Iohannis’ announcement to withdraw

from the race, Rutte secured his place as NATO’s secretary general.

It is now a matter of days until he is formally con rmed in his new position.

As the Ukraine-Russia crisis continues and concerns rise about former US President, Donald Trump’s return to power, Rutte’s diplomatic approach appears to be the key to maintaining peace.

Nicknamed Te on Mark for his ability to avoid scandals and Trump Whisperer for managing negotiations with Donald Trump, NATO’s members have shown con dence in Mark Rutte, anticipating a strengthening of the EU peace-making strategies.

Airport danger

A NEW study by European Group Transport & Environment (T&E) which promotes transport and sustainable energy has come up with an unexpected finding.

Malaga Airport on the Costa del Sol. It argues that these people are exposed to the perceived danger caused by ultrafine particles (UFP) from aviation which are in the air. These particles are approximately 1,000 times smaller than a hu-

man hair and are of particular concern because they penetrate deeply into the human body and have been found in the blood, brain, and placenta.

and dementia due to the quality of the aviation fuel currently in use and approved across Europe.

Other serious conditions which can build up over the long-term include respiratory

lar problems as

This means that potentially, thousands of people could suffer from hypertension, diabetes

nancy the

The study de Spain but looked at 32 of Europe’s busiest airports and came to the conclusion that the only way to make life more bearable and less risky for those living in the ‘danger zones’ is to reduce the volume of air traffic and replace existing fuel with cleaner alternatives.

Mark Rutte with NATO.

Credit: Mark Rutte, X

Study suggests cleaner aviation fuel is a must.

Credit: Iosif Gromadko Shutterstock

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:

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

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.

Un-boa-believeable

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.

Image: City of Portsmouth College

Photo credit: CC/Go Ikeda

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

GET ready for Meed Festival on July 6 at de Elche!

This annual event transforms L’Escorxador into a lively family-friendly celebration of art, music, and creativity from 6.00pm to 3.00am. With free entry, visitors of all ages can enjoy various DJs to keep you dancing throughout the night. Complementing the music are art installations and exhibitions that will be scattered around the venue, showcasing the talents of local and international artists.

One of the highlights of the festival is the bustling market, which features a

MEED Festival

variety of stalls dedicated to design, fashion, and craftsmanship. Here, visitors can browse unique items, discover new trends, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the creators.

No festival experience would be complete without delicious food, and Meed Festival delivers a gastronomic area featuring a variety of food trucks.

These trucks will serve up a delightful array of culinary delights. Adding to the excitement is a dazzling fashion show, which will spotlight the latest trends and innovative designs from talented fashionistas.

Since its start in 2010, the Meed Festival has become a cultural cornerstone in Elche, attracting thousands annually. The ninth edition of the Meed Festival will feature over 40 artists and DJs, making it one of the most extensive lineups to date. The festival’s diverse programme ensures there is something for everyone.

The Galaxy’s

GET ready for an evening of unforgettable music with The Galaxy’s rock band, known for their dynamic performances of all-time popular hits.

These talented musicians never fail to get the crowd cheering with their exceptional musical skills and the lead singer’s remarkable voice.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 6, from 6.00pm to 9.00pm, and prepare to be entertained by a setlist packed with your favourite songs.

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, contemporary hits, or something in between, The Galaxy’s are sure to delight music lovers of all ages.

Due to the band’s popularity, it’s highly recommended to book a table in advance as the event is expected to draw a large crowd.

Admission is free. To reserve your spot and book a table call (+34) 603 235 688 or visit El Capitan at Calle Fragata, 1, 03189 Orihuela.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL enthusiasts are in for a spectacular evening as The Jersey Boys Experience brings their tribute to The Four Seasons to Orihuela’s re-

This tribute band honours the legacy of The Four Seasons, an American rock-and-roll group celebrated for their remarkable success in the early

With over 25 hits during a prolific five-year period starting with ‘Sherry’ in 1962, the group’s music, especially lead singer Frankie Valli’s iconic falsetto, remains beloved by fans worldwi-

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, July 9, when tables will be available from 6.30pm. The live music perfor-

mance can be enjoyed from 8.00pm to 11.00pm. While entry is free, securing a spot in advance is highly recommended.

The Emerald Isle in La Florida is one of Spain’s premier leisure complexes, known for its inviting pools, traditional Irish gastro-bar, exceptional live entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere. The venue also boasts international-class bowls greens and a club.

To book your table or for more information, visit the website at emeraldis lespain.com, reach out via WhatsApp on (+34) 615 504 066 or by phone on (+34) 965 327 138

The Emerald Isle, is located at Calle Marte 2, La Florida, 03189, Orihuela Costa.

Image: The Galaxy’s / Facebook

The Cages

PADDY’S POINT invites everyone to enjoy an unforgettable July 4 celebration featuring The Cages, a brilliant three-piece rock band renowned for their diverse repertoire.

Partygoers can look forward to an evening filled with live music, showcasing hits from legendary bands such as Fleetwood Mac, Queen, and Heart, among many others.

The festivities promise not just great music but also delicious food, with options to dine indoors or outdoors.

For more information, visit Paddy’s Point at 13, Calle Flores, C.C. Zeniagolf, Local, 03189 La Zenia, or call (+34) 966 730 527.

Celebrate Independence Day with fantastic tunes and great company at Paddy’s Point!

Melendi Magic

IF you’re looking for an evening filled with rock, flamenco, and rumba, head to Alicante for the Spanish leg of Melendi’s tour, aptly named ‘20 Years Without News’.

After selling out 19 dates across Spain and selling

visit songs from his earlier albums, including some tracks he hasn’t performed live in over 15 years. Melendi, born in Oviedo, Asturias, shares a unique background. He went to school with Formula One driver Fer-

over 185,000 tickets in record time, Melendi has announced additional tour dates in both Latin America and Spain.

The extended tour will continue throughout 2024, giving his dedicated fans another chance to experience his dynamic live performances.

Melendi’s overwhelming success is fuelled by the high demand from his legion of followers, many of whom have not yet had the opportunity to see him live. This tour will see Melendi headlining major festivals across the country, performing the anthems his fans have loved for years. In addition to his iconic hits, Melendi will re-

nando Alonso, even dedicating the song ‘Magic Alonso’ to him.

Although he briefly pursued racing and football, Melendi ultimately found his calling in music.

He played in the lower ranks of Astur CF, a reserve team for Real Oviedo, and worked as a waiter in several bars. These experiences fuelled the lyrics of his songs.The concert will take place at Area 12 in Alicante.

Doors open at 9.00pm on Friday, July 12. For more information or to purchase tickets, head to the website: enterticket.es.

THE talented Ramonchina will be gracing the stage at El Refugio Arte y Utopías - Arte - Bar, promising a night filled with mesmerising music and a cosy atmosphere. Ramonchina will be

performing hits from legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Etta James, Louis Armstrong, and Nat King Cole, among others.

Join the fun on Satur-

day, July 6 at 10.30pm for this special event. El Refugio Arte y UtopíasArte - Bar is located at 20 Carrer del Cid, Alicante. For more information or to book a table call (+34) 636 738 502.

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.

Putting your skills to the test

YOUNG photographers are needed to capture the best sights of the school summer holidays as part of the Specsavers Ópticas’ Summer Photography Competition.

Specsavers Ópticas are looking for budding photographers aged between six and 17 years old, to cap ture the best image of their summer holidays this year. They want youngsters to grab their cameras and take an image which really en capsulates the fun of the ho lidays and enter it into their Summer Photography Competition.

The best photo in the Junior and Senior categories will win a €50 Amazon voucher and a pair of sunglasses and have their image showcased on social media and in the press. Images can be entered via social media and via email from now until September 1.

Chantelle Hayward from Specsavers Ópticas Calpe explains, “We want to encou-

rage youngsters to get out and about and hone their photography skills this summer. Studies show that getting outside when we’re young and enjoying time in the sunshine can protect against myopia, as well as

being good for physical and mental health, so we want to encourage less screen time and more summer fun in the sun. Our Summer Photography Competition will reward the best photographs of these summer adventures and activities and give two youngsters in our Junior and Senior categories the chance to win a €50 Amazon voucher and a pair of sunglasses.”

The competition is open between July 1 and September 1 and photographs can be submitted on social media by tagging @ Specsavers Opticas on Facebook and @specsavers spain on Instagram, sending photos via Messenger or via email to spain. marketing@specsavers. com.

The competition is open to residents of Alicante and Malaga provinces and Mallorca. The competition closes on Sunday September 1. Terms and conditions apply, which can be found at www.specsavers. es/sorteo

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

€20 billion

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Traffic was brought to a standstill in Helsinki.

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 unexpected twist to any makeup routine. Moreover, contemporary formulas ensure that these products are more wearable than ever. Long-lasting, smu-

dge-proof,

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.

Shutterstock/LightField

Shutterstock/Melinda Nagy

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. Cor tisol 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,

nitive function, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of developing anxiety and depression.

Effects of Low 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 emotional stress. Maintaining balanced cortisol levels is crucial for overall health, and disruptions should be managed under medical supervision.

A VIRTUAL gastric band is a non-surgical weight loss treatment that uses hypnosis to convince the mind that a gastric band has been fitted around the stomach. This psychological approach helps individuals feel fuller faster, mirroring the effects of an actual gastric band surgery without the associated risks and costs.

The process involves a series of hypnotherapy sessions where a practitioner guides the patient through visualisations of the surgical procedure. By tapping into the subconscious, the therapy aims to alter the patient’s relationship with food, reducing portion sizes and curbing overeating.

Results have been promising, with many individuals reporting significant weight loss and improved eating habits. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, the virtual gastric band can be an effective tool for long-term

Mind over matter

weight management.

To get a virtual gastric band, seek out a qualified hypnotherapist specialising in weight loss treatments. Initial consultations typically involve discussing medical history, wei-

ght loss goals, and the treatment plan. As the popularity of this approach grows, more practitioners are offering virtual sessions, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Hot dog drama Bad news for GM arborio rice

VANDALS shattered scientists’ hopes of producing Italy’s first fungus-free arborio rice by devastating a plot of land planted with a genetically-modified strain.

The outdoor trial in Pavia was the first of its kind since regulations were recently relaxed and ex perts quoted in a Science magazine article said the destruction came as a huge blow.

“What happened is very tragic, especially for colleagues who lost an important experiment,” said Silvio Salvi, plant geneticist at the University of Bologna and president of the Italian Society of Agricultural Genetics.

Arborio rice, essential when making risotto, is particularly vulnerable to Pyricularia oryzae which causes crop-destroying rice blast, usually

killing the plants. To date, only fungicides can control the disease.

University of Milan researcher Vittoria Brambilla and her team began experimenting in 2017, eventually coming up with a fungus-resistant type of arborio rice they call RIS8imo.

Laboratory trials were successful but field trials impossible until the Italian government adjusted existing regulations in

2023.

The scientists planted the prototype rice on a 28-square metre plot, surrounded by 400 square metres of fenced fallow land to prevent pollen dispersion last May.

On June 21, the team learnt that practically all of the plants had been uprooted or scythed down. They have no idea who could have been responsible.

“Naively, I didn’t expect it,” Brambilla admitted.

All of the farmers in the area knew about the experiment and were in favour of it, she added.

For his part, Silvio Salvi stressed that the team were not intimidated by the destruction of the experimental rice paddy.

“There will definitely be no stepping back,” he declared.

JOEY ‘JAWS’ CHESTNUT, a dominant force in competitive eating with 16 hot dog eating titles, has been barred from participating in the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest in New York. This decision comes after Chestnut signed an endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, a company known for its plant-based meat alternatives.

Chestnut, 40, has been the undisputed champion of the Nathan’s contest, winning all but one of the competitions since 2007. His record-setting performance in 2021 saw him consume 76 hot dogs and buns in just 10 minutes,

among his 55 competitive eating world records.

Despite slightly falling short of his record in 2023 with 63 sausages, he remains a formidable contender.

However, Major League Eating (MLE), the governing body of the contest, revealed that Chestnut’s endorsement deal conflicts with Nathan’s Famous exclusivity rules.

MLE expressed disappointment in Chestnut’s decision to represent a competing brand, stating, “We are devastated to learn that Joey Chestnut has chosen to represent a rival brand that sells

plant-based hot dogs rather than competing in the 2024 Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest.”

The statement continued, highlighting the long-standing exclusivity provisions that have been in place for nearly two decades.

“It appears that Chestnut and his management prioritised the new partnership with Impossible Foods over their longstanding relationship with Nathan’s Famous.”

As a result, Chestnut will be absent from this year’s Nathan’s Famous contest.

HOT DOG CONTEST: Held on 4th July in New York.

PAVIA: Area is known for its arborio rice.

Photo credit: CC/Yorick 39

THE Swedish Liberals’ Johan Pehrson has once again highlighted the importance and responsibility of parents in children’s personal development in his speech in Almadalen.

Pehrson especially focused on the father’s role in the child’s life; “I think Sweden would do well with a little more father anxiety. We need more adult men who take greater responsibility for their children’s upbringing.”

Parental control

In the same week of June, the Liberal Party launched a proposal for a ‘parental contract’, for students at risk of failing primary school. This is a contract ‘where the parents undertake to set limits and set rules for the child’s homework, sleep, free time and screen habits’.

Pehrson emphasised the importan -

Summer opening hours

Talyta Franca, Class 2026, Northwestern University in Qatar

MERCADONA, the leading supermarket chain in Spain, has announced extended summer opening hours, including Sundays and holidays.

This action is a move following similar adjustments by competitors like Carrefour and El Corte Inglés.

Effective now in different regions in the country, Mercadona will open its doors from 9.00am to 10.00pm on weekdays, extending its previous closing time by 30 minutes.

On Sundays and holidays, 340 selected stores will operate from 9.00am to 3.00pm, accommodating the seasonal shopping needs of customers.

The decision to modify operating hours during the summer months aims to meet the increased demand and provide greater convenience to consumers across the country.

This shift comes amid ongoing discussions about work-life balance and employee rights, especially concerning weekend rest for staff.

These adjusted timings will remain in effect until September, ensuring customers have ample time to shop during the extended daylight hours of the summer season.

To find out if your local Mercadona store is included in these new summer hours, customers are encouraged to visit the Mercadona website for specific details.

ce of technology in children’s upbringing, stating that the Party has developed proposals for tech companies and the internet giants to “take greater responsibility for children’s vulnerability online.”

“We need to see a new public education movement rise against the eternal scrolling by the screen,” he argued, determined to change the current habits of children.

Credit: M.Peinado, Flickr

Mercadona store in Madrid.

Limits should be set for children.

Credt: Andrea Piacquadio, Pexels

Vincent Real Estate: Guiding dreams in Costa Blanca property.

CELEBRATING its 25th anniversary this year, in the heart of Costa Blanca and Costa Calida, Vincent Real Estate has been a steadfast ally for property seekers since 1999.

Founded by Mark and Hazel Vincent, the agency has blossomed into a cornerstone of the local real estate market, offering a diverse portfolio from charming villas in Quesada to contemporary apartments in Mar Menor.

What sets Vincent Real Estate apart is its dedication to personalised service.

From the moment clients step through their doors in Benijofar or Playa Flamenca, they are met with a team fluent in English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Norwegian, and Swedish.

This multi lingual expertise ensures that every client receives not only pro fessional guidance but also a deep understanding of their unique needs and preferen ces.

Over the years, Vincent Real Estate has weathered the highs and lows of the Spanish property market, emerging stronger and more resilient. Their commitment to clients extends beyond the transaction, with comprehensive support that spans before, during, and after the purchase.

This holistic approach has earned them a reputation for reliability and integrity.

The firm’s success is not just

measured in transactions but in relationships cultivated.

Many clients have not only found their dream homes but have also forged lasting friendships with the Vincent team, who are not only experts but also homeowners themselves in the Costa Blanca.

Vincent Real Estate’s dedication to excellence is further underscored by its recognition in the industry.

As proud members of the

AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals), they adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.

Their commitment to customer service has been acknowledged with prestigious awards, including the Bronze Award for Best European Agent and the Silver Award for Best Example of Customer Service.

Whether you’re seeking a

holiday retreat or a permanent residence, Vincent Real Estate offers a seamless journey to finding your ideal property in the sun-drenched Costa Blanca.

Their blend of familial tradition and modern expertise ensures that every client receives the utmost care and attention, guiding them through every step of the process with confidence and ease.

Discover why so many have entrusted their dreams of Mediterranean living to Vincent Real Estate.

To explore the possibilities with Vincent Real Estate, head into their Alicante office at Av Federico Garcia Lorca 37, Benijofar, 03178 Alicante or their Orihuela office at Calle Niagara Ed. Miraflores III, Local 6,7 Playa Flamenca 03189. Alternatively head to the website: vincent-realestate.com or call ES: (0034) 966 712 440 or UK: +44 208 0998997.

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.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Train to fight cancer

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.”

Axarquia Feline welfare

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.

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 four years.

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.

PETS

Tech pet watch

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.

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.

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

We like

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

on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online.

3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home.

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5

Excellent

My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks…

Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters. Tom C - Homeowner in Mojacar, Spain

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

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.

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.

to find real animal lovers to stay with your pets.

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Key changes for scooters & cyclists

SPAIN’S General Traffic Regulations (DGT) is expected to finalise measures that require a helmet and a minimum age of 16 to ride electric scooters. Key changes include mandating the use of luminous elements and reflective vests for scooter users during poor visibility conditions and restricting their circulation to urban areas.

The reform responds to the previous year’s data, in which there were a total of 1,815 deaths caused by traffic accidents in Spain in 2022, as reported by Statista.

To promote sustainable mobility, pavements will be reserved exclusively for pedestrians, with municipalities regulating two-wheeled vehicle parking to avoid obstructing pedestrian traffic.

Urban road regulations will see bicycles prioritising the centre of the lane, and cyclists will be

permitted to overtake motor vehicles in tra-

PROTECTING your car from thieves involves a combination of vigilance, technology, and practical measures. Here are six top tips to help you safeguard your vehicle:

A visible steering wheel lock acts as a strong deterrent for thieves. It adds an extra layer of security that can discourage a thief from attempting to steal your car.

Modern car alarm systems can alert you and

Minimum age for users.

ffic jams. On single-lane streets with a 30 km/h

Stop thieves!

others nearby if someone tries to break into your car. Many systems also come with immobilisers that prevent the car from being started without the correct key.

Always try to park your car in well-lit, busy areas. If you have a garage, use it. Parking in a secure,

limit, cyclists can travel against traffic flow. Additional measures include lowering the permissible blood alcohol levels for beginners and professional drivers, with new limits set at 0.20 grams per litre of blood and 0.10 milligrams per litre of expired air.

As the next step, the draft will undergo review before final approval by the Council of Ministers.

visible location makes it less attractive to thieves. Never leave valuables in plain view inside your car. Items like bags, electronics, and even loose change can tempt a thief. Installing a GPS tracker can help recover your car if it’s stolen. Some advanced systems can even alert you if your car is moved without permission. This may seem obvious, but always lock your car and take your keys.

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-

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).

Winning ugly Football for migrants in Spain

HAVING been disappoin ted not to be at Wimble don last year through injury, 21-year-old Emma Raducanu’s smile is back.

Up until 10.30am on the day of the match, she had been preparing to play Ekaterina Alexandrova, planning and setting up practices with similar opponents. However, when the unexpected change occurred, Raducanu’s adap tability was truly impressive.

Unfortunately, the Russian had to withdraw due to illness, and Radu canu faced Mexican Renata Zarazua, who had previously lost in the third round of qualifying.

Elated to be allowed to play and make her main debut at Wimbledon, Zarazua pushed Raducanu in an extremely tense game that turned out to be an incredibly difficult match for the 2021 US Open Champion. However, Raducanu’s unwavering determination and perseverance, despite the challenging circumstances, was a testament to her spirit. She even-

tually found a way past Zarazua, securing victory with a 7-6 (7-0) 6-3 win on

Speaking after the match, Raducanu said she had been inspired by the heart shown by the England squad in their match against Slovakia the night before. “I was nervous; I think everyone could see that in my tennis, but at the end of the day, you have to do whatever it takes to get over the line.”

Raducanu continued, “Watching the football last night, it was like ‘winning ugly’ - that it all counts.”

Raducanu, who will now face Belgium’s Elise Mertens, shared that her motivation is to keep coming back, keep playing, and feel that Wimbledon buzz.

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

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

Among them were over 2,500 unaccompanied mi nors seeking refuge.

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 li mited resources and boundless enthusiasm, Darna (meaning ‘home’ in Arabic) provides a spa ce for young migrants, mostly from

Morocco, to build identities and

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 ho-

Credit:Naimul

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

Rafin/fb

Emma Raducanu takes victory on Wimbledon Centre Court.

Credit: X: the_LTA