Positive shift for Alicante housing market
IN the evolving landscape of Spain’s real estate market, Alicante emerges as a beacon of positive change amidst a generally contracting trend.
Recent data from idealista, highlights a significant decline in the number of homes available for sale across Spain.
In the second quarter of 2024, the overall housing stock decreased by 6 per cent compared to the same period last year, matching the reduction observed in the first quarter.
This decline in housing availability has been particularly pronounced in several provincial capitals.
Ávila and Burgos have seen the most dramatic reductions, with housing supply dropping by 30 per cent.
Other notable decreases include Zamora and León, both down by 25 per cent, and Oviedo, A Coruña, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, each experiencing declines of around 24 per cent.
Larger markets like Valencia, Barcelona, and Madrid have also faced significant
drops, with reductions of 21 per cent, 17 per cent, and 15 per cent respectively.
Sevilla and Bilbao have seen decreases of 14 per cent and 11 per cent, while Palma, Alicante, and Malaga have experienced more modest declines of 9 per cent, 6 per cent, and 4 per cent.
In contrast to this overall trend, Alicante stands out with a notable 7 per cent increase in its housing stock.
This positive shift sets Alicante apart as a symbol of resilience and growth in the real estate sector.
Its ability to expand its housing availability while other cities experience reductions highlights its distinctive appeal and burgeoning opportunities in the market.
Girona and Cuenca also reported increases in availability, with gains of 6 per cent and 2 per cent respectively.
Meanwhile, Tarragona, Guipúzcoa, and Lleida have maintained their current levels of housing availability, showing stability amidst a broader trend of contraction.
Costa Blanca South • Issue No. 2038 • 25- 31 July 2024
Image: Comunitat Valenciana / Turismo Positive change.
Operation Strait
THE first month of Operation Strait Passage (OPE) at the port of Alicante has seen a decrease in passenger numbers compared to last year, but an increase in the number of vehicles boarded.
From June 13 to July 14, a total of 11,051 passengers boarded ferries connecting Alicante with the Algerian ports of Oran and Algiers.
This marks a 7.8 per cent decline from the previous year’s figures, equating to 936 fewer passengers.
In contrast, the number of vehicles transported rose by 18.2 per cent, totalling 3,637, which is 560 more than in 2023.
One potential factor contributing to the decline in passenger numbers could be the customs restrictions in
Algeria, leading to reduced merchant transit.
During the past month, there were 11 ferry rotations arriving in Alicante in the morning and returning to Algeria in the afternoon, one more rotation than the same period last year.
The overall assessment of OPE’s first month, coordinated by Civil Protection under the Government Subdele -
gation in Alicante, indicates that 12 healthcare services were provided to travellers heading to Algeria, a significant reduction of 67.7 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Additionally, social assistance requests have decreased by 51.9 per cent, dropping from 214 to 103, with most of these requests being for information.
Image: Puerto de Alicante
Passenger numbers have dropped this year.
Missing in Spain
SPAIN, a land of culture, stunning beaches, and welcoming locals, also faces a lesser-known travel concern: tourist disappearances.
Unlike missing persons within a resident population, tourist disappearances are di cult to track.
Factors like short travel durations, language barriers, and privacy concerns can make it hard to
determine if a missing person is truly lost or simply unreachable due to travel plans.
In April, a 31-year-old American tourist, Ryan Anthony, vanished in Barcelona after experiencing a mental health crisis. His disappearance, linked to stolen belongings, highlighted the vulnerability of solo travellers facing personal struggles
The disappearance of British teenager Jay Slater in Tenerife in May sent shockwaves through the travel community. Despite extensive searches, his body was tragically discovered weeks later.
Just this month, 26-yearold Benjamin Ross, lost contact with his family on July 10, after extending a holiday in Mallorca.
These are just a few re-
KNOWING what to do in an emergency is essential for residents and visitors in Spain - it’s about having vital contact numbers at your ngertips.
Remember this universal number: 112. It’s the emergency hotline that connects you to police, ambulance, re services, or coastguard services across Spain and the entire European Union. Calling 112 is free and available 24/7, even without a SIM card in your pho-
Go Fund Me
SEARCHING for a missing loved one abroad can be a logistical and financial nightmare. Hiring private investigators with international experience, securing translators, and covering travel costs quickly deplete resources. For families already dealing with emotional turmoil, the financial strain can be paralysing.
GoFundMe offers a lifeline, allowing families to reach out to a global audience for support. However, relying on the generosity of strangers creates an unsettling reality: the ability to search for a missing loved one hinges on the unpredictability of online donors.
Critics argue that families shouldn’t be forced to beg for donations to find their loved ones. They point out that governments should provide more resources and support for families in these situations.
Crowdfunding success depends heavily on a compelling story and social media reach. This can disadvantage families with limited resources or those unfamiliar with online fundraising platforms.
ported cases, and the true number of tourists who go missing in Spain each year likely remains unknown.
The reasons behind tourist disappearances in Spain can vary. Some incidents may involve foul play, while others could be attributed to accidents, wandering o course, or even intentional avoidance of contact due to personal reasons.
The case of Jay Slater demonstrated the public’s suspicion of fundraisers for missing people. Whilst many supported the campaign, some felt that the family might be exploiting the system. A Facebook user stated - “So don’t get me wrong, it is sad what happened to Jay Slater in Tenerife, but his mother is now asking for more money to give him a good send off and the Go Fund Me page has just hit £60,000. Really?!”
ne. 112 operators are trained to respond only to real emergencies. They do not provide general information.
If you require urgent medical attention or an ambulance, dial 061. This toll-free number connects you directly to professional health support during medical emergencies.
For immediate re response, call 080 or 085. The speci c number depends on your region, but both connect you to local re departments.
Need tourist information or assistance with local events, cultural activities, or public transport schedules? Dial +34 902 102 112 for the Tourist Helpline. Services are o ered in English, French, German and Italian.
Always keep your home country’s embassy or consulate contact information handy.
online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.
The last update on Ryan Anthony (wearing baseball cap) was July 25 - he was seen at a hostel in Barcelona without phone, money, or passport.
Credit: Kayli Anthony Willis/fb
The Go Fund Me campaign for Jay Slater resulted in public suspicion.
Celebrating independence
THE anniversary celebrations of Los Montesinos’ segregation will take place from July 25 to 30.
Over five days, the festivities will include live music, water and foam parties, performances, sports events, and a large artisan market with various activities.
These events will commemorate 34 years of municipal autonomy (19902024).
Historically, Los Montesinos was part of the municipality of Almoradi from the 16th century until 1990.
The traditional guardianship by Almoradi en-
ded when Los Montesinos became an independent municipality through Decree 140/90 of the Generalitat Valenciana.
This decree established Los Montesinos with its own town hall and territory, dismembered from Almoradi.
Music on the Beaches
ELCHE is excited to announce the ‘Music on the Beaches of Elche’ series, a collection of events taking place along the Elche coast until August 31.
La Marina.
All concerts will start at 10.00pm, except for the second Habaneras Festival of La Marina, which will begin at 8.00pm.
municipality, including our beaches and districts, which see a higher population during the summer.”
Located in the extreme south of Alicante Province and the Valencian Community, Los Montesinos covers an area of 15,132,824 square metres.
It is situated in the southern part of the Bajo Segura region, traditionally known as the ‘field or dryland’, distinct from the irrigated lands of the Segura River.
Irene Ruiz, the councillor for Culture, stated, “Our summer nights will be magical on our beaches with the wonderful music from the dozen concerts we have scheduled,” and encouraged the residents of Elche to come and enjoy these events.
The musical activities will be held at three locations: Arenales del Sol on Avenida San Bartolomé de Tirajana, the Plaza Mayor of El Altet, and the Plaza de la Antina in
Irene Ruiz urged the residents of Elche to enjoy these magical summer nights on the beaches.
She emphasised, “This musical series promotes culture throughout our
The councillor also highlighted that all concerts will have free admission and are intended for all audiences, ensuring a fun evening for both young and old with their favourite songs.
For more information, visit the website elche.es.
Keeping cool
TO cope with the high temperatures, Elche’s councillor of Health, Inma Mora, has issued a message ur-
ging Costa Blanca residents and visitors to take precautions.
She emphasised the importance of following basic recommendations to stay safe, especially for children, the elderly, and pets.
The council are advising that residents and visitors drink plenty of water to ensure they remain hydrated. Regularly cooling down with water or staying in air-conditioned places is recommended.
Using sunscreen is essential to shield the skin from harmful UV rays. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate the body, is also important.
Keeping to cool, shady places whenever possible and avoiding going outside during the hottest parts of the day when the sun’s intensity is highest will help minimise heat exposure.
Maintaining a diet rich in vegetables and fruits is beneficial for staying cool and hydrated.
By following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks associated with high temperatures.
Vineyard voyage
ESTABLISHED as a cooperative in 1932, Bodegas Pinoso has been dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of winemaking.
The founders’ hard work quickly earned the winery a reputation for high-quality wines, prompting other producers to join the cooperative. This growth led to expansions in 1969 and 1974.
By the early 1980s, the winery had expanded to produce 19,000,000 litres, becoming the largest cooperative winery in Alicante with 650 members.
In the late 1990s, the winery shifted focus to enhance its quality policy, improve bottled wines, and allocate land for certified organic vineyards.
Discover Mediterranean wine culture at Bodegas Pinoso, where tradition and innovation blend to create a unique experience.
The Bodega’s exclusive ‘Families 1932’ tour offers an in-depth look at its legacy. Explore the secrets of the century-old vines and experience the fusion of traditional methods and modern
innovations that define winemaking.
The tour includes a guided visit of 45 minutes, followed by a 45-minute tasting of three of wines paired with local produce.
The entire experience lasts one hour and 30 minutes and requires a minimum group size of 10 people.
To make a reservation or for more information, email comunicacion@bodegaspino so.com
Appointments are essential, and tours are available in Spanish and English.
New traffic tactic
STARTING August 1, Torrevieja will implement a new traffic management strategy aimed at easing congestion in the town centre and seafront areas.
Under this plan, vehicle access will be restricted when the Marina Sali nas and Vista Alegre car parks are full.
Unlike last year, when closures were set for a specific time - 8.00pm - this year, the Local Police will coordinate with parking manage ment teams to monitor real-time occupancy.
Access will be closed once these car parks reach their capacity.
In addition, parking will be pro hibited on Calle Ramón Gallud throughout August to further alle viate traffic congestion and impro ve access.
The new approach aims to prevent drivers from becoming trapped on Avenida Vista Alegre and Libertad without parking options, instead directing them to alternative underground parking facilities along Calle Ramón Gallud, including El Arco, Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre, and Plaza de Oriente.
The Traffic Department had considered implementing this measure in July.
However, the current vehicle density in the urban centre during the eve-
nings has not necessitated an earlier start.
The new roundabout near la Aduana has somewhat eased traffic on Calle María Parodi, contributing to this decision.
The council has not ruled out the possibility of initiating the restrictions before August 1, but any changes will be communicated several days in advance.
Vehicle access will be restricted.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Torrevieja
Image: Bodegas Pinoso / Facebook
The tour offers an in-depth look at the company’s legacy.
Sailing success Melon magic
THE ‘Tabarca Vela Diputación de Alicante’ regatta, held from July 18 to 21, featured over 70 boats and 700 sailors, including participants from the Real Club Nautico Torrevieja.
Weather conditions significantly influenced the event, especially on July 20, when the wind was slow to reach Alicante Bay.
By early afternoon, a southerly wind of 6-8 knots finally began to blow, though it eventua lly died down, compli cating the day’s conclu sion.
Despite this, the two rounds schedu led for the opening day proceeded as planned. The challenging condi tions required crews to navigate carefully to avoid calm zones, making it a highly tactical day.
July 21 brought
spectacular sailing conditions with a northeast wind ranging from 13 to 17 knots and one-metre waves.
This set the stage for an exciting conclusion to the 28th Tabarca Vela-Diputación de Alicante, culminating in the crowning of the event’s winners.
The victorious teams were Pez de Abril (ORC 1), Ebury Sailing Team (ORC 2), Falapouco (ORC
3), Enewtec Engineering (ORC 4), North Face (ORC 5/E), MarAmigo Sail Racing (Go Out Consulting J22), Plis Play V (Dragon), and Guaguanco IV (ORC A Two).
The awards ceremony took place at the Sailor Village of the Real Club de Regatas de Alicante, attended by prominent figures in the sailing world.
THE Carrizales Irrigation Community has once again launched the Carrizales Melon campaign.
The event was attended by the mayor, Pablo Ruz, who highlighted the significance of the Carrizales melon, also known as Piel de Sapo.
This melon is internationally renowned for its unique and extremely sweet flavour, attributed to the specific soil characteristics and irrigation methods used in its cultivation.
This year’s production saw a significant increase, yielding 400,000 kilos of melons, a 25 per cent rise from the 2023 season, covering a cultivation area of 200 tahúllas (20 hectares).
Despite this increase, irrigators and farmers noted that the yield is still below past campaigns, where up to 500,000 kilos of melons were harvested.
The primary reason for this shortfall is the ongoing scarcity of water.
The mayor remarked, “We are in a moment of great hope for the city.
“Elche is not only the second largest provincial producer of primary sector products, but it is also unique as an agricultural and industrial city. Events like the melon cutting, throughout the year, highlight these aspects, and we should be very proud.”
He also emphasised that “this is the way forward, and the visibility of Elche’s agricultural products is crucial for demand.”
Victorious teams.
Image: Real Club Nautico Torrevieja
Image: Ayuntamiento de Elche
The way forward.
Fiesta raffle Madagascar’s marvels
ELCHE has relaunched the raffle for seats to attend various events during the August festivities.
Inma Mora, the councillor for Fiestas, announced that the number of seats available for the raffle has been increased this year to 210.
The events included in the raffle are the Mora Entrance on August 8, the Embassy on August 9, the Cristina Entrance on August 10, the Charanga on August 11, and the general rehearsals of the Misteri d’Elx on August 11 and 12.
The draw will take place on August 1, covering the Mora y Cristiana Entrance.
The Embassy, Charanga, and the Misteri d’Elx performances will be drawn on August 11 and 12.
The registration period for the raffle began on July 19 and ends on July 31.
Interested participants, who must be over 16 years of age and registered in Elche, can sign up at the website aplicaciones.elche. es/sorteosFiestas. Entry is easy, just fill out personal information and specify which events you wish to attend.
IF you’ve ever dreamed of seeing a White-Faced Lemur up close, Rio Safari Park in Elche is the place to visit.
Madagascar, renowned as a ‘biodiversity hotspot’, has developed unique species of plants and animals due to its isolation from other continents for over 80 million years.
This island’s separation has fostered a rich tapestry of life found nowhere else on Earth.
Among the fascinating wildlife of Madagascar is the White-Faced Lemur, one of over 100 lemur species.
These lemurs are characterised by their brown fur and distinctive white ring of fur around the face, a trait found only in males.
Typically, they weigh no more than 3 kg.
The population of White-Faced Lemurs in their natural habitat has been on a decline, decreasing by approximately 30 per cent over the past 24 years.
This species is particularly vulnerable due to intense hunting, primarily for subsistence by local humans, which is unsustainable for the lemur population.
Furthermore, habitat destruction and degradation have significantly impacted these lemurs.
Nearly half (46 per cent) of Madagascar’s forest area is lost within just 100 metres of its original extent.
Winners will be notified via email with details on where and when to collect their tickets.
The raffle results will be published on August 1 on the same website. A maximum of two seats per person per event will be allocated.
Rio Safari Elche is situated on Carretera Elche-Santa Pola (CV 865), just 9 km from Elche and 4 km from Santa Pola.
For more information, call (+34) 966 638 288 or email info@riosafari.com .
AUGUST FESTIVITIES: Win a seat at various events during the month.
ALMORADI has received a grant of €1,977,752 from European funds to finance improvements in the weekly and Saturday market area.
The planned upgrades include expanding the pavements, enhancing accessibility, repaving streets, and upgrading public lighting and the drinking water system on Calle Canalejas.
Additionally, lighting will be installed in the Plaza de la Constitución, and decorative lighting
THE ongoing campaign at the Laderas del Castillo archaeological site in Callosa de Segura is approaching its conclusion after beginning in March.
This site, showcasing remnants of a settlement from the Argaric culture, has been hailed as “one of the most exceptional sites in the Vega Baja” by Carmen Selles, the provincial deputy for Architecture.
The Argar civilisation thrived in southeastern
will be added to the façades of the Church of San Andrés Apóstol, the town hall, and the Teatro Cortés.
Public lighting will also be upgraded in the vicinity of the weekly market and the surrounding commercial areas.
The project will also see the installation of advertising systems at strategic locations throughout the municipality, the addition
of a decorative element that represents the town, and the installation of pergolas and sunshades in the Plaza de la Constitución, particularly in the existing children’s play area.
According to the council, the upgrade aims to create a more pleasant environment, thereby improving the appeal and image of local commerce in Almoradi.
Spain over 4,000 years ago.
The provincial government has covered 90 per cent of the excavation costs, amounting to €450,000.
The primary aim of this initiative is to preserve
Radiology revamp Market makeover Laderas del Castillo
the site and determine how it can be made accessible to the public.
Efforts include remodelling the access area, managing water runoff on the mountainside for site protection, preparing visitor itineraries, conducting excavations, consolidating and restoring structures uncovered by previous digs, and developing features for a future museum.
THE Ministry of Health has invested €1.1 million in new equipment and upgrades for the Radiology departments at Vega Baja Hospital, Almoradi Health Centre, and Orihuela Specialty Centre.
This investment aims to expedite the availability of radiological images and reduce patient radiation exposure.
The Orihuela Health Department has completed the installation and commissioning of digital radiology rooms, featuring double detectors and column-to-floor X-ray tubes.
These digital radiology systems replace outdated analogue equipment, enhancing image resolution, quality, speed, and overall efficiency.
The investment includes nearly €900,000 allocated for four new digital radiology units: one at Vega Baja Hospital, one at Almoradi Health Centre, and two at Orihuela Specialty Centre.
Additionally, extensive renovations have been carried out in these facilities to improve the environment for both patients and healthcare professionals.
Upgrades include replacing floors and vertical walls, renewing ceilings, and installing new lighting, air conditioning, and carpentry.
The workspace for professionals has also been expanded to facilitate their work.
Tabarca tourism Turtle triumph
AT 1.00am on July 22, a loggerhead turtle laid 63 eggs on La Mata beach.
Belgian tourists spotted the turtle emerging from the water to nest and promptly alerted the staff at the ‘Pura Vida’ beach bar.
emerging from the water to nest and staff
The staff called 112, activating the protocol for such events.
In recognition of the beach bar’s assistance, the turtle has been named ‘Pura Vida’.
Biologist Juan Antonio Pujol, author of Crónicas Naturales de Torrevieja, was the first to arrive on the scene, followed by a team of specialists from the University of Valencia, Oceanogràfic, and Xaloc.
They waited for the turtle to complete its nesting process before closing the nest to retain the turtle for health assessments and GPS tagging for future monitoring.
Ultrasound tests indicated that the follicles could mature in about 15 days, suggesting the turtle might return to lay more eggs.
Pujol emphasised the importance of not disturbing nesting loggerhead turtles and urged anyone who sees one to call 112.
Of the 63 eggs, 57 were translocated to the more protected Molino del Agua area to ensure their safety, as the original nesting site was too close to the busy shore.
This protected area will be monitored during the incubation period, which lasts between 50 and 70 days depending on temperature.
The remaining six eggs were transferred to the Oceanogràfic incubator for further care.
IN the Mediterranean Sea, near Alicante, lies the small island of Tabarca.
Known for its ecological importance, Tabarca became a marine reserve in 1986.
Despite its small size of 0.3 square kilometres and a population of about 60 residents, it attracts many visitors, especially in summer.
In 2023, about 230,000 people visited Tabarca, with some summer days seeing over 10,000 tourists. This high number of visitors is putting pressure on the island’s fragile ecosystem.
Originally, Tabarca relied on fishing, but now its economy depends on day-trippers.
This shift has created an urgent need to preserve
the island’s natural and cultural heritage while managing tourism sustainably.
The current tourism model, focusing on sun and beach holidays, is not sustainable for the island.
Alejandro Triviño, a researcher at the Institute of Coastal Ecology, noted that the island’s infrastructure cannot handle the
high number of visitors. He suggested a more balanced approach that includes ecotourism and cultural tourism, which could spread visitor numbers more evenly throughout the year.
Triviño recommends setting limits on the number of visitors by regulating boats, especially during peak seasons. This could involve advance ticket sales and strict boat anchoring regulations to reduce environmental impact.
He also suggests diversifying tourist activities by offering guided tours focused on the island’s history and marine biodiversity to attract visitors interested in sustainability and environmental education.
Sixty-three eggs were laid.
The island is now a marine reserve.
Image: Alicante City & Beach
Image: Crónicas Naturales de Torrevieja / Facebook
Mayors unite Weekend shenanigans
A FIVE-DAY extravaganza of music, dancing, and circus entertainment is set to take place in the car park of Gran Alacant’s José Antonio Alemañ Sports Centre.
Nely Baile, the councillor for Festivals has unveiled the schedule for the Gran Alacant festivities, which will run from July 25 to 29.
The festivities kick off on Thursday, July 25, with a performance by the Chamán group at 9.30pm.
On Friday, July 26, at 9.00pm, the Inmaculada Jaén Dance School will present a flamenco and Spanish dance performance.
Saturday, July 27, will feature a community dinner, the ‘sopar del cabasset’, at 9.00pm.
Residents can participate by reserving a table through the link vecinosgranalacant. com/cena-cabasset.
Following the dinner, at 10.00pm, the group Blacknight will rock the night with their performance.
Sunday, July 28, is dedicated to the younger audience, with the acrobatic circus show ‘Mystére’ starting at 9.00pm.
The festivities will conclude on Monday, July 29, at 9.00pm with the Dance Fusion Foley festival.
ALL the mayors and spokespersons of the Popular Party (PP) in Vega Baja have united to sign a joint declaration, urging the elimination of the toll on the AP-7 from Los Montesinos to Villamartín.
This action, they argue, would help alleviate congestion on the coastal highway and improve traffic flow in the region.
On July 15, Minister of Trans port, Óscar Puente, announ ced that from July 16 to Oc tober 15, 2024, the toll on the AP-7 section would be fully subsidised to relieve the A-70 highway as it passes through Alicante.
Despite this, the only toll section remaining in the en tire province of Alicante will be the stretch between Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa.
80,000 to 95,000 vehicles daily.
However, an error in the announcement led to confusion about which section would be toll-free, ultimately leaving the Los Montesinos to Villamartín segment as the only operational toll in the province.
Faced with this situation, the PP officials voiced their strong opposition, arguing that the measure harms the region’s tourism, reduces its competitiveness, and further isolates it compared to other areas.
The mayors and PP spokespersons expressed their discontent and anger, believing that the government of Pedro Sánchez was neglecting the region.
They argue that this decision negatively impacts tourism, reduces competitiveness, and perpetuates the unsustainable congestion of the N-332.
Minister Puente’s announcement was intended to address the heavy traffic on the A-70, which handles approximately
They emphasised that the N-332, currently carrying 43,337 vehicles per day on a single carriageway with one lane in each direction, is inadequate, especially compared to the A-70, which supports about 90,938 vehicles per day on a dual carriageway.
During the summer, the population using this stretch of the N-332 exceeds 800,000 and approaches one million at peak times.
The officials deem it unacceptable that such a significant volume of traffic is forced onto a road with only one lane in each direction, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure and fairer toll policies.
Schedule announced.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola
Improving traffic flow.
Image csp Shutterstock.com
Guitar Festival
THE 26th City of Elche Guitar Festival will take place from Friday, July 26 to July 31, starting at 9.00pm and 9.30pm.
The councillor of Culture, Irene Ruiz, con rmed that the festival is a unique event and a must-attend for guitar lovers.
Organiser, Iván Lledó, highlighted the festival’s great artistic quality, with nightly concerts by various artists and groups.
Additionally, guitar master classes will be provided by prestigious professors from the CEU Cardenal Herrera University.
The festival will also host the 21st
City of Elche International Guitar Competition for solo guitarists of any age.
All performances will have free admission except for the concert by Álvaro Pierri and pianist Sergio Posada, which will cost €20.
Tickets for this concert can be purchased at the cloister’s door one hour before the performance.
Irene Ruiz encouraged all residents and visitors to attend and enjoy the concerts, rea rming the council’s commitment to the festival.
She emphasised that Elche’s summer festivals across various artistic and cultural disciplines are events that should not be missed.
Death Valley
ON July 22, Sax athlete Juan Antonio Cabo Gil embarked on the gruelling Badwater 135 Ultramarathon, known as the ‘most difficult foot race in the world’.
This 135-mile (217 km) ultramarathon starts in Badwater Basin in Death Valley and ends at Whitney Portal, the base of operations for Mount Whitney, at an altitude of 2,548 metres.
Cabo faced temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius in one of the hottest places on Earth.
The ultramarathon course traverses three mountain ranges, with an approximate total ascent of 14,600 feet (4,450 metres) and a descent of 6,100 feet (1,859 metres).
The race begins at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282
feet (85.5 metres) below sea level, and finishes at Whitney Portal, near the highest point in central North America.
The route includes key locations such as Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, Panamint Springs, Salt Creek, Darwin, Ke-
fferent nationalities participated.
Among the Spanish competitors were
Juan Antonio Cabo Gil from Sax Athletics Club, Iván Penalva López from Valencia, and Luis de Santiago from Sant Cugat del Vallès.
A gruelling marathon. Image:
A unique event. Image:
de Elche
Home collection Lighthouse viewpoint
SANTA POLA has completed the construction of a walkway linking the lighthouse road to the popular Mediterranean viewpoint.
The viewpoint is one of the town’s most scenic and frequented tourist spots.
Ángel Piedecausa, councillor for the Environment, confirmed, “We have achieved full accessibility to the Santa Pola lighthouse viewpoint for people with reduced mobility.
“This fulfils a sugges -
tion we received from users of the walkway and is now a reality.”
This project enhances accessibility by connecting the parking area near the lighthouse to the iconic suspended viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the island of Tabarca.
This viewpoint is a major attraction due to its stunning location and its role as an impressive sea-facing balcony.
The first phase involved installing a 200-me -
tre walkway made from plastic wood, a material 100 per cent recycled from plastic waste produced by Integrados, a Villena-based company that employs people with different abilities.
The final phase involved completing the last 25 metres of the walkway over existing cobblestones, which previously complicated movement.
This now fully connects the car park to the viewpoint, making it completely accessible to all visitors.
DUE to numerous instances of ille gal dumping in various areas of the Gran Alacant neighbour hood, the municipal clea ning services conducted an intensive cleanup operation.
Out of all the items illegally discarded on public roads, only one resident had informed the authorities for collection.
Encarni Ramírez, the councillor for Cleaning, stated, “After the extensive cleanup to restore the streets of Gran Alacant to their best possible condition, we hope not to face the same situation again.
“Therefore, we strongly urge residents who need to dispose of belongings or garden waste to contact Urbaser on (+34) 966 693 955 or send a WhatsApp to (+34) 639 537 476 to request free home collection.”
Illegal dumping on public roads or vacant lots is punishable by fines of up to €751, and the Local Police are issuing sanctions whenever
the perpetrators are identified.
The councillor expressed regret, noting, “Despite the council’s significant efforts to modernise our cleaning and urban solid waste collection infrastructure to improve service and facilitate recycling for residents, we continue to encounter these uncivil behaviours from some neighbours.”
Ángel Piedecausa, councillor for the Environment.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola
Image: Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola / Facebook Cleanup operation taking place.
Heavy metal mayor
IN what turned out to be a somewhat unusual ceremony, Vera Celis, mayor of Geels in Antwerp agreed to go metal to conduct a wedding.
She was asked to officiate at the symbolic wedding by the owners of the Skulls hard rock café as Walter and Anja who are in their 50s hoped that she would be prepared to enter into the spirit of the occasion by dressing in something appropriate.
Possibly knowing that local elections were just around the corner and hoping for some good publicity for being such a ‘politician of the people’, she agreed and although her wardrobe is normally somewhat more refined, she managed to find a look which everyone approved off.
The bride and groom arrived at Skulls where the symbolic ceremony took place in a three-wheel motorbike with the bride wearing black.
The ‘ceremony’ was also officiated over by a friend dressed as a Cardinal and present were their children, grandchildren, friends and customers.
Speaking to VRT NWS, Mayor Celis said “The most exotic thing I had experienced to date was having pets present at the wedding. But mostly, in Geel, everything is done by the book.”
All went well and the mayor was considered a good sport by all involved.
Ice, Ice Baby
HIGH temperatures are not exactly enjoyable for animals from cold climates, especially when they have layers of fat and fur to keep them warm.
Imagine how uncomfortable polar bear twins Aleut and Gregor must have been until the Prague Zoo decided to ship in 10 tons of ice every week whilst the temperature is so high. Whilst the polar bears luxuriated in the cooling climate of their enclosure, the Zoo often becomes the coldest place in Prague and other animals to benefit include the elephants, otters, the flightless Kea from the Alpine regions of New
Zealand and even kangaroos.
There is a double bonus to the ice so, as it melts there is still refreshing cool water for many of the zoo inhabitants to enjoy.
The heat however hasn’t stopped a number of animals and reptiles
giving birth and the latest collection include a tiny female pangolin, a couple of capybaras, short-haired May kittens and a pair of llamas.
Top attraction however is a yet to be named three-weekold female Northern Nubian giraffe who after suffering some initial problems with her health has now been introduced to the entire herd.
More sophisticated, but a bit like a struggling Liberian private zoo which some 25 years ago had notices everywhere saying “Please feed the animals,” it is possible to donate money to feed the giraffes in Prague Zoo through https://stra venky.zoopraha.cz/pro duct/zirafa-nubijska.
Chilli kick
AFTER the ‘challenge’ of trying Denmark’s ultra-spicy noodles became viral, the Danish Food Agency banned the products, warning of their ‘poisonous effects’. This July, however, the trend came back; young people continue to fan the flames of the trend on social media.
After a growing concern about the noodles, the Danish National Food Institute evaluated the products and found an alarmingly high level of capsaicin present; something which could cause acute poisoning. The Institute then issued an official recommendation, especially targeting young people and children to avoid the products.
In June, the trending noodle products including ‘3x Spicy & Hot Chicken’, ‘2x Spicy & Hot Chicken’, and ‘Hot Chic-
ken Stew’ by the South Korean brand Samyang, were taken off all stores in Denmark due to safety concerns.
In July, however, two of the three banned products, ‘2x Spicy & Hot Chicken’, and ‘Hot Chicken Stew’ bounced back on the shelves across the country. The third product, ‘Samyang Buldak 3 x Spicy Hot Chicken’ is still considered by the
Institute too harmful to health and is therefore still prohibited.
The Danish Food Institute released an updated statement after conducting a more extensive analysis of the products, saying that the products currently sold are safe to consume. The content of capsaicin, however, was still listed as high and should be consumed with caution.
Credit: Vera Celis
Remember the Cresta polar bear adverts“It’s frothy man.”
Mayor Celis and the happy couple.
Credit: Prague Zoo
Samyang noodles back on the shelves.
Credit: H&L, Facebook
New name
ITALY’s second-busiest airport was renamed for the billionaire businessman-turned-politician, Silvio Berlusconi, despite growing opposition.
Milan’s Malpensa Airport was renamed to Milan-Malpensa Silvio Berlusconi on July 11, after receiving the approval of the civil aviation authority, despite widespread criticism.
The popular airport had 26 million passengers passing through in 2023 alone, according to Assaeroporti (Italian Association of Airport Operators), and will now be one of Italy’s famously named airports, Leonardo da Vinci, Marco Polo and Valerio Catullo.
“As an Italian and a Lombard, I can’t wait to land at Malpensa Berlusconi,” said the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini to the Press. A longtime friend of Berlusconi, the Minister announced his decision, describing Berlusconi as a “friend Silvio, a great entrepreneur, a great Milanese, and a great Italian.”
Many, however, did not share his enthusiasm; an online petition was formed
IT is simply staggering the amount of money spent on clothing and souvenirs associated with major sporting events and counterfeits grow like mushrooms. With the Euro 2024 finals and the Copa America taking place at the same time, supporters in Spain were obvious customers for football memorabilia and a huge number of shirts were part of a six million item haul.
against the new name, collecting more than 120,000 signatures. Social media became ooded with protesting comments, referencing Berlusconi’s infamous ‘Bunga Bunga’ parties and numerous criminal records.
Italy’s longest-serving premier, Berlusconi died last year at age 86 and while he was admired by some, as seen placing Italy at the forefront of Europe, many regarded him as a power-hungry populist.
A counter-proposal was launched by an opposing union, suggesting that the name be changed to Carla Fracci, the renowned prima ballerina. The centre-left Democratic Party stated that the airport must be named after someone who embodies the values of “honesty, integrity and community service.”
The Party argued that Berlusconi “does not re ect these values, as demonstrated by the numerous criminal convictions he received over the years.”
No more sunbeds
LIKE Italy and Spain, Greece is growing tired of overcrowding caused by tourists; to battle the issue, beaches now rely on drones to report illegal placings of sunbeds and deckchairs.
The newly developed regulation focuses on 14 beaches across Greece, particularly targeting the protected ‘Natura’ areas and tourist centres. As sunbeds are becoming a rarer sight, drones are now the common practice, overseeing restaurants, bars and rental companies without a permit for beach seating.
The drones not only nd those without a permit but also report the establishments whose sunbeds and umbrellas are positioned too close to the sea; under the new legislation, these should be at least four metres from the shore.
Under the legislation introduced in March, the beaches should be 70 per cent
Fakes seized
sunbed-free and 85 per cent free in the protected beaches, where construction is also limited. The Minister indicated that these measures would help overcrowding and illegal privatisation of Greek beaches.
The drones on these beaches are being assisted by local citizens themselves via the MyCoast digital app, which lists the legal establishments and allows users to report violations.
At the beginning of July, a local news outlet reported that more than 1,000 complaints had been led within
just ve days; resulting in more than €350,000 in violation nes.
In Anavyssos, south of Athens, the largest single ne was issued €220,000 on the Thymari beach to a business operating without a permit. The only establishments allowed to place sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach are those holding a licence and keeping the beach clean and accessible with lifeguard services. These regulations coincide with the limitations on cruise ships in Mykonos and Santorini, which will be placed in 2025.
One of the 30 brands which appear
Madrid’s Guardia Civil and Tax Agency co-ordinated a raid on warehouses in Madrid which they knew to house counterfeit goods, but at the same time they recovered 4.5 tons of other items which they believe will, after being properly checked, turn out to be fake as well.
to have been the subject of counterfeiting complained to the authorities and passed on information which allowed them to take this punitive action which actually saw official visits to five different locations.
The investigation continues.
Silvio Berlusconi.
Credit: J.M. Executive, Flickr
Isolated beach in Greece.
Warehouses full of counterfeit or suspected fake items.
Belgium’s favourite names
ON January 1 this year, there were 61,231 registered male residents called Marc, still the country’s most popular name for a man.
Jean (59,366) was ranked second and Patrick (49,456) third, national statistics o ce Statbel revealed.
There were 104,494 Marias, the most prevalent name for women, leaving the more traditional Marie behind on 86,356. Nathalie (39,786), which came third, was the only one of the top adult names not to decline in popularity over the past year.
Olivia, the most popular name for a newborn girl, was chosen by 587 parents, compared with 429 preferring
who had headed the list for 14 years before being overtaken by Olivia in 2019.
Louise (365) was ranked third, while Statbel drew attention to So a (365), entering the Top 10 for the rst time
A total of 589 boys received the name of Noah, the most popular name for male newborns for the third consecutive year, followed by Arthur (577) and Liam (498). Matteo in 10th place was a newcomer to the Top Ten boys’ names and was given to 297 newborns.
Statbel’s gures also featured Belgium’s most common surnames, which were Peeters (30,558), Janssens (27,927) and Maes (24,233).
Recycling referee
THE conclusion of Euro 2024 has brought an unexpected in uence on the Heilbronn District in Germany.
The red and yellow card method used by referees to discipline misbehaving players has inspired a new approach to managing waste sorting.
To tackle the issue of residents improperly disposing of metal, glass, and plastic in or- ganic waste bins, the district will employ advanced technology by installing lorry sensors that identify non-organic items in these containers.
educate residents.
As part of an initial educational and awareness campaign, Heilbronn District introduced the use of yellow and red stickers to signal improper waste sorting.
During the grace period, these stickers served as an unusual yet e ective tool to
When contaminants are found during the rst inspection, the bin is emptied but marked with a yellow sticker to highlight the mistake.
However, if a violation is detected during a subsequent collection, the bin is left unemptied and receives a red sticker.
Despite their e ectiveness, the manual inspection of each bin signi cantly bur-
dens waste management employees, causing delays and tra c congestion.
To streamline this process, starting in August, waste lorries in Heilbronn District will be tted with sensors capable of detecting non-organic materials such as metal, glass, plastic, and pet waste minerals in organic bins. This upgrade aims to ease the workload of sta and improve overall e ciency.
Emma
OLIVIA: Currently the most popular name for a baby girl.
A new approach.
Cruise tax
LAST year, Spain received a record 85.1 million international tourists.
This summer, the figures continue to soar, causing protests in major cities like Barcelona.
The city’s mayor, Jaume Collboni is taking new measures to battle the crisis.
The mayor shared his plans to raise the tourist tax for cruise passengers who visit Barcelona for less than 12 hours.
Collboni stated to the Press; “Barcelona is a city that’s open to visitors and tourism is an important sector of its economy. That said, I’m determined to tackle the consequences that mass tourism is having for the city. We’re going to substantially raise the tax for people on cruise stopovers.”
He explained; “When it comes to stopover cruise passengers - less than 12 hours - you get an intensive use of public space without any benefit to the city and you get a feeling of occupation and saturation. We want tourism that respects its destination.”
Now, worth €7, the mayor didn’t clarify by how much the tax will be raised, saying only that studies had already been commissioned.
He added that the rise aims not to prevent cruise visitors, but to ensure they generate revenue to be invested in the city.
Time to buy
DURING the week of July 15-21, the Euribor rate was recorded as at its lowest level this year. Experts stated that further drops are expected, making it an attractive time to purchase property in Spain.
In June 2024, Euribor marked an average rate of 3.65 per cent with the indicator starting the year at 3.609 per cent, rising to 3.671 per cent in February and 3.718 per cent in March. Since then it has decreased, falling to 3.703 per cent in April and 3.680 per cent in May.
In June, the European Central Bank cut interest rates for the rst time since March 2016; the rate fell by 0.25 points to stand at 4,.25 per cent. If Euribor closes July at 3.57 per cent, the prices of variable-rate mortgages reviewed annually, would become a lot cheaper. In July last year, the rate was at 4.249 per cent.
According to the COAPI (General Council of the O cial Associations of Real Estate Agents of Spain), the decrease in mortgages mirrors the drop in property sales. Yet, the COAPI stated to be optimistic; “Buyers paid an average interest of 3.46 per cent in January of this year, while today they
obtain nancing at 3.25 per cent.
“For this reason, there will be a stabilisation of the gures with increases that will favour a positive end to the year.”
The director of Pilos.com Studies stated that the granting of mortgages has nevertheless decreased, due to the
drop in transactions and the irregular dynamics of the market.
However, he also said to anticipate a “recovery” compared to last year, driven by lower interest rates.
Spain continues to be among the countries with the most a ordable mortgages in Europe.
This is an attractive time to purchase property in Spain.
The only guest Tax the rich
A TRAVEL influencer shared a “surreal” experience of staying at an “abandoned” hotel in Italy, that didn’t have a single staff member and only a handful of guests.
Known as Universal Corner on TikTok, a woman shared her travel experience with her 59,000 followers in Cagliari, on the island of Sardinia. She shared a video, which has been viewed more than 73,000 times, showing an old-fashioned, completely empty hotel.
The woman said she was the only guest and there were no staff. She said upon her arrival she met someone who handed her a key and said that “everything will be closed.” She didn’t believe it until she saw it herself; “There is a restaurant downstairs which is closed. The hotel is totally empty.”
She then revealed;
“There were no guests in the hotel and suddenly a car arrives and there are two elderly foreigners, I think from Croatia. As everything was closed. I offered to call the hotel’s phone number.”
She reached a person who said they were not in charge and suggested she take the role of a concierge; “Instead of telling me he was coming to take care of
things, he said the new guests could have room 109, which was open and I should accompany them to their room.”
The video sparked a discussion about Italy’s hotels; “Hotels in Italy are usually like that,” said one TikTok user. Another said that “they would be horrified.”
Others said “Now you understand why it was so cheap.”
HOME to an estimated 110 billionaires and even more multi-millionaires, Switzerland is in danger of losing a large part of its population. The ultra-rich are preparing to flee the country in fear of a new tax proposal.
The JUSO (The Socialist Youth), under the Social Democratic Party, are determined to impose a law for a 50 per cent inheritance tax on all residents whose assets exceed 50 million francs (€7 million).
The Vice President of JUSO, Melanie Rufi stated to the Press that the rich should be held “responsible” for climate change, as they “contribute enormously to the destruction of the climate through their investments and consumer beha-
that the tax would generate six billion francs (€914,694,103) in income for both the government and Swiss residents. While the left of the Swiss parliament is fully in support of the initiative, MPs from other parties are concerned about the consequences on the local economy. To become the law, the initiative has to go through numerous stages. Initially, a parliamentary consultation and recommendation will be held, which are likely to last at least until the year 2025. Therefore, the decision will not be made until 2026.
Despite this, many of the Swiss wealthy are already moving abroad, as Norwegians who have fled to Switzerland in fear of their country’s
Empty hotel reception in Sardinia.
Swiss aeroplane.
Credit: Riik@mctr, Flickr
Picasso prank
A COLLECTION of paintings, initially presented as the works of Pablo Picasso and other renowned artists, has stirred considerable controversy at an Australian art museum.
The institution faced a gender discrimination lawsuit after it restricted access to the exhibition to female visitors only.
The controversy escalated when the museum, in an attempt to comply with a legal ruling that men could not be excluded, relocated the paintings to a women’s bathroom.
It was revealed this week that the paintings were not genuine master-
pieces by Picasso or other famous artists.
Kirsha Kaechele, the curator of the women-only exhibition at Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), confessed to creating the paintings herself.
Kaechele disclosed her role as the actual artist on MONA’s blog, prompted by inquiries from a reporter and the Picasso Administration in France regarding the paintings’ authenticity.
She noted that the paintings had been on display for over three years without anyone questioning their origin, despite one piece being accidentally hung upside down.
“I expected a Picasso expert, a devoted fan, or even just someone curious enough to search online, to visit the Ladies Lounge, notice the upside-down painting, and expose the truth on social media,” Kaechele wrote. “But it never happened.”
Painted by Kirsha.
FROM COAST TO COAST
Feeling too hot to
LET’S chat about the weather; it might help us both cool down.
Thinking of moving to Jupiter? I’ve got a few spots left. Who’s in?
In my hunt for a new home among the stars, I stumbled upon Exo-Venus, an Earth-like planet just 42 light-years away. Turns out, it’s a no-go - average temperature? A scorching 42 degrees.
Speaking of cosmic issues, I’d like to share one of my favourite jokes:
handle?
- seven climate zones to brag about. Scientists even pinpoint nine consistent weather regions across the contiguous United States.
I hail from the desert near Death Valley, where temps hit a blistering 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.44 Celsius). Parts of Nevada and California? Almost too hot to handle, unless you’re from the Southwest, where wearing shorts and boots together in a heatwave is no sweat.
“There were three people: A Russian, an American, and a blonde. They were having a nice chat together. Then, the Russian said: ‘We were the first ones in space.’ Then the American chimed in: ‘We were the first ones on the moon.’ The blonde added: ‘Well, that’s nothing! We’re gonna be the first ones on the sun!’ The Russian and the American burst out laughing and said: ‘You can’t go to the sun! It’s too hot, you’ll burn up!’ The blonde replied: ‘We know that, we’re not that silly! We’ll go at night!’”
Back on Earth, I’m left to grumble about the blazing summer in southern Spain. The more I vent, the better I feel.
For some of us (like myself), summer has become a personal sauna. I’ve got love handles to spare, but why do I sweat in all the wrong places and never where I should, like the beer belly?
But hey, enough about me. Americans love a good weather chat too. Why wouldn’t we? We’ve got it all: Northwest Coastal, High Plains, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, South, and Southwest
Ever heard of Cordoba, Spain’s hottest province? Then there’s the ‘Pan of Andalucia’ - Écija, proud bearer of the title ‘La sartén de Andalucia’. Andújar completes this trifecta of heat, where frying an egg on the street is not just a joke - it’s possible.
Temperatures here have hit a sizzling 46 degrees Celsius in the last two decades, courtesy of AEMET.
Last year was brutal. I recall neighbours sneaking out at midnight to crank the AC in their cars - a luxury at home can’t live without.
How did I survive? Well, no AC meant cutting back on alcohol, calories, and taking ice-cold showers. Closing curtains, using kitchen fans, and switching to low-energy bulbs helped too. But let’s face it, those ultra-cooling blankets, mattress gel pads, and neck fans are smarter solutions. And if all else fails? Crank up the AC!
Wherever you go, always bring the weather with you - or as they say, “Al mal tiempo, buena cara!”
Lucca Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
BY: LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA
Image: MONA Blog
Ben Ross found alive
BRITISH trainee barrister
Ben Ross has been found alive after vanishing on the Spanish island of Mallorca on July 10.
The 26-year-old’s disappearance sparked a frantic search by his family and friends. His mother, Felix Robinson has expressed immense relief in a statement: “I’m so incredibly grateful for all the help and support we’ve received. Everyone has been truly incredible. We are so relieved to have found him and are now focused on getting him back to full health and home safe and well.”
Determined to nd her son, Felix travelled to Mallorca and launched a personal search. Meanwhile, Ben’s friend, Carla, set up an online fundraiser to support the family’s e orts.
While the exact circumstances of Ben’s disappearance and subsequent discovery remain unclear, the news of his safe return brings great relief to his family and the community.
“THERE is no new King of Pop. You didn’t earn it, my uncle did,” shared Michael Jackson’s nephew, Taj Jackson on X, after seeing the Rolling Stone UK cover, crowning Harry Styles with the honourable title.
Rolling Stone awarded the 30-yearold pop singer, Harry Styles with the title that no one since Michael Jackson had dared to touch, causing mixed reactions from the public and alarmed responses from Jackson’s family.
Michael Jackson’s son, Prince Jackson appeared on Good Morning Britain to address the controversy. “I do feel that my father is the King of Pop, will always be the King of Pop, and it’s not something that you can ever take away...”
Michael Jackson was rst titled the King of Pop by the iconic American actress, Elizabeth Taylor when she presented him with the Heritage Award for career achievement at the Soul Train Music Awards in 1989.
This was 25 years after the start of Jackson’s career; 25 years of his tireless work and ght against racial and class discrimination.
Rolling Stone crowned Harry Styles with the same title just six years after his launch into a solo career,
King of Pop
following the fall of the popular boy band, One Direction, formed after auditioning in the X-Factor in 2010.
Prince Jackson said; “Harry Styles is an incredible artist. But the King of Pop was a moniker that really my dad earned in a time that the access to information and the access to popularity and fame wasn’t as ea-
BJORVIKA, still Oslo’s port district, was in continual use as the city’s principal harbour until four centuries ago.
Last of the Viking ships
dal from the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU) told online magazine Sciencenorway.
Intrigued, they sent a fragment of wood for dating and learnt that it had belonged to a tree which began to grow in 1035 and was felled between 1087 and 1100.
of the Viking Era.” This is commonly accepted as ending on September 25, 1066 when Harold of England defeated Harald Hardrada of Norway in the Battle of Stamford Hill, a shortlived victory as he lost his own life in the Battle of Hastings on October 14.
The seabed is littered with the wrecks of boats that foundered from the 13th century onwards and archaeologists initially assumed that a large section of timber excavated under a wharf built around 1300 was roughly the same age.
“But we saw that its shape di ered signi cantly from other nds in the same area,” Havard Heg-
“It was 200 years older than the wharf above it.
And that’s a big mystery,” Hegdal said.
“If the dating is accurate, then we’re right at the end
Much of Bjorvika has received little attention from archaeologists until now, but they are increasingly called in as more discoveries are made during major developments in the area.
Harry Styles photoshoot.
Credit: Harry Styles, Facebook
Benjamin Ross and his mother, Felix Robinson.
Credit: Spotted Salford/fb
BJORVIKA: Archaeologists investigate area near Oslo’s Opera House.
Your
Spain:
An affordable lifestyle? Our readers have their say:
SPAIN has long been a popular destination for expats seeking a more affordable lifestyle. However, recent trends suggest a changing picture. While the country continues to offer many positives, the reality for many is becoming increasingly complex.
A key issue highlighted by residents is the challenge of finding long-term rental accommodation. Susan Bee , from Andalucia, describes the struggle of facing continuous relocations due to the scarcity of long-term rentals - “We are renting in Andalucia and are going back to the UK. In our mid 50s not having resources to buy our own house and having to continuously move because we can’t get long term rentals is becoming too much.”
This problem is compounded by rising property prices, making homeownership a distant dream for many.
Helen van Lakum , points to recent government efforts to address the housing crisis - “I thought Spain had put in new stricter laws on ownership and rentals a few months ago, I know Alcalde of Valencia closed down thousands of illegal BnBs and it didn’t harm the economy. The days of property speculation are fading fast, prices are too high and contracts too short for locals.”
While measures such as cracking down on illegal short-term rentals have been implemented, the overall impact on affordability remains to
be seen.
John Carr offers a historical perspective, comparing the housing situation in Spain to the UK. He highlights the importance of tenant protection laws and how their absence can deter landlords from offering long-term rentals. This issue appears to be a common thread in both countries, impacting the rental market significantly - “With the housing act 1968, the UK’s Labour government introduced laws to protect tenants. My mother-in-law who used to let a couple of rooms stopped doing so because of the lack of her rights.
“My son stopped letting an apartment here in Spain about 12 years ago for the same reason. He’d let long term for many years and had experienced his share of problems with tenants. He still owns the property which has significantly increased in value.”
Jenny Church sees a solution - “If they stopped giving out tourist licences for rentals and changed the laws for evicting long term tenants not paying their rent, more owners would rent out their properties long term.”
While Spain undoubtedly retains its appeal, the dream of an affordable lifestyle is becoming increasingly elusive for many. The combination of rising property prices, limited rental options, and a lack of tenant protection is creating a perfect storm for potential residents.
Don’t feed the wolves
PART of the Den Treek estate in Leusden has been closed after a small girl was bitten during a school outing.
The 200 hectares of countryside are privately owned but open to the public and Leusden Town Hall, together with Utrecht’s provincial authorities, decided one section until August 15 to prevent more incidents.
The child suffered a warning nip but in early July a miniature poodle on a lead was bitten and dragged away by a wolf and has not been seen since.
A pair of wolves with cubs live on the estate and the Utrecht authorities said that safeguarding its offspring had probably prompted an over-protective parent to attack the dog and bite the child.
Provincial councillor Huib van Essen said the recent attac ks were unusual and suggested the Den Treek wolves could be lo sing their fear of humans because
tourists use food to attract wolves so they can take photographs.
What was needed, wolf behaviour expert Diederik van Liere said, was a volunteer service to chase away wolves after a sighting.
“That would teach wolves not to approach people and is the best longterm solution,” Van Liere told the NOS broadcaster.
Meanwhile, farmers in the area insisted that shooting them was the only solution and called for the current protection regulations to be
Flying into trouble
FRANCE’S government has authorised flying taxis but Paris City Hall wants to ban them.
On July 4, the government approved airport authority Groupe ADP’s project and construction began on a ‘vertiport’ located on the Seine near Austerlitz railway station for the two-seater electric aircraft.
Paris City Hall and Jerome Coumet, mayor of the 13th Arrondissement, together with associations fighting air and noise pollution, have now taken legal action to cancel the authorisation.
The project showcasing the vertical takeoff flying taxis has also has received a €1 million subsidy from the Ile de France region.
According to the Environment ministry, the air taxis can operate until December 31 ‘at the
latest’ between 8am and 5pm, with a daily maximum of two journeys.
There will be room for one passenger paying an average fare of €110 and the taxis will follow three separate routes, connecting all the Paris airports.
Where possible, the taxis must avoid flying over buildings and follow the course of the Seine and the Paris ring road.
City hall official Dan Lert has described the flying taxis as “environmental aberrations for the ultra-rich” and a “democratic scandal” responsible for new noise pollution, especially for ring-road residents.
Lert also maintained that the airborne taxis use 30 times more energy than the Metro and emit 45 times more greenhouse gases.
FLYING TAXI: Could soon be seen over Paris.
WOLVES: Some wolves are losing their fear of humans.
KING CHARLES III has conferred a royal title upon a rare golden goat breed connected to the island of Guernsey.
Known now as the Royal Golden Guernsey Goat, this title was awarded during the king’s visit to the island in the English Channel on Tuesday July 16, and it applies to the breed worldwide.
Rebecca Martin, the owner of the eight-year-old goat Summerville Tamsin, which was selected to represent the breed, expressed hope that the new title would help raise awareness.
Royal goat
During the ceremony, King Charles petted the goat and complimented its pale blonde coat.
The Royal Golden Guernsey Goat is listed as ‘at risk’ on the Rare Breeds Watchlist. Known for their friendly and docile nature, these goats also produce good milk.
Christopher Price, the chief executive of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, highlighted the significance of this recognition.
He noted that the royal honour acknowledges the breed’s historical importance and its contributions to biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and sustainable food production.
“These goats are selective in their grazing habits, which can lead to specific environmental benefits,” the chief executive stated.
“We are extremely grateful to His Majesty for his greatly valued support.”
Ronaldo invests
THE fact that Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to play in Saudi Arabia has ensured yet a further growth in his profile in the Middle East.
He has recently taken a 10 per cent stake in the company that owns luxury tableware brand Vista Alegre Atlantis and a 30 per cent stake in the Spanish subsidiary.
As Vista Alegre celebrates its founding in Portugal 200 years ago, so Ronaldo has agreed to become invol ved in a joint venture to promo te the Vista Alegre brand and re nowned Portuguese ceramics brand Bordallo Pinheiro in Asia and the Middle East.
The first bicentenary product to be launched is a 2024 calendar plate which has as its central design a duck perched on top of a football which carries the date 2024.
If Portugal had actually triumphed in the Euro 2024 finals, sales would have shot through the roof, but the 39-year-old is committed to promoting and investing in Portuguese products and through his CR7 company is either a partner or brand
Ambassador for a number of local companies.
Like one of the other greats of modern football, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo has investments in four boutique hotels and by the time he hangs up his football boots it is estimated he will have earned at least $1 billion (€920 million) during his playing career. With wise management of CR7 and ongoing sponsorship, that amount can only continue to grow on an annual basis.
RARE BREED: King Charles petted the goat at the ceremony.
Image: Royal UK
Ronaldo is a staunch supporter of Portuguese business.
Credit: Cristiano Ronaldo Facebook
Outlook gloomy
BUSINESS has been slow this year for the beach bars along the Ostend coast owing to the disappointing weather. Danny Van den Broucke, who owns four beach bars, said he will be closing one of them when the season ends in October, not only due to the wet weather, but also the high rents that city hall charges.
Audi blow
GERMAN carmaker Audi intends to close its Brussels plant now that global demand for high-end electric vehicles is waning. The Belgian government is in talks with Audi in a bid to save jobs after the Volkswagen subsidiary announced that with production falling to 6,000 this year, it planned to close the unviable factory in 2025.
EURO PRESS
IRELAND
Axes to grind
THE National Museum of Ireland in Dublin appealed to members of the public for information regarding two Early Bronze Age axe heads (2150-2000 BC) posted anonymously to the museum in June. Knowing their original location was crucial for archaeological context, the museum said.
UNEXPECTED PRESENT: Two priceless axeheads sent anonymously to Irish museum.
SWEDEN
Prison visitors
AS the number of under-16s remanded while awaiting trial in Swedish jails has increased, the Prison and Probation Service intends to hire more teachers and counsellors to provide educational support. Schooling is compulsory until the age of 16 and young people’s education should be prioritised, the authorities said.
No tax
THE Visita association which represents Sweden’s hospitality industry warned that allowing municipalities to introduce a tourist tax to avoid overtourism would adversely affect their businesses. “We are already heavily taxed and it would be a real burden to receive additional taxes,” Visita’s Policy chief Anna Wallen said.
GERMANY FRANCE
Strike averted
GROUND staff at Paris airport cancelled the strike that would have caused travel chaos ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games which begin on July 26. The airport workers reached agreement with government-controlled Aeroports de Paris SA (ADP) and accepted a deal on bonuses, working hours and organisation.
Be lazy
PSYCHOANALYST, economist and writer Corinne Maier told Le Monde that she wrote her latest book - Me First! Manifesto for Female Selfishness - to denounce an injustice. “Unlike men, women don’t have the right to be selfish,” Maier maintained. “For men, selfishness is very much tolerated, even rewarded.”
FINLAND NORWAY
Rough ride
TWO tourists who drove across the tundra and a protected area in Longyearbyen on the Svalbard archipelago inside the Arctic Circle were each fined 20,000 kroner (€1,702) for infringing the Cultural Heritage Act. They also broke a separate law that bars all motor traffic from driving across unpaved, open countryside.
ID erased
OLESYA KRIVTSOVA, a Russian activist living in Kirkenes, only discovered that her identity document had been cancelled when she visiting the Russian consulate to renew her international passport. Placed under house arrest in January 2023, she managed to flee Russia in March 2023 despite her electronic tagging device.
New arrivals
THIS summer saw new arrivals at Helsinki’s Korkeasaari Zoo after resident animals produced musk oxen, Pallas cat kittens, forest reindeer and a bearded vulture chick.bThe musk oxen calves were the first to be born there since the early 2000s while the vulture, which hatched in the spring, has been relocated to Germany.
On your way
FIGHTER jets from Finland and Sweden on a joint Nato mission intercepted and redirected two Russian fighter aircraft over the Baltic Sea’s international waters. They had taken off from Kaliningrad and were heading towards mainland Russia but had no flight plan and were not in contact with civilian air traffic.
Plot confirmed
PLANS to assassinate Armin Papperger, the chief executive of Germany’s principal arms manufacturer Rheinmetal, earlier this year were neutralised by the US and German authorities, according to reports in the US media. The plot was retaliation for Rheinmetal’s arms shipments to Ukraine, Intelligence sources said.
Mind the gap
AFTER months of negotiations, Germany’s Cabinet has approved the coalition government’s 2025 Budget despite a €17 billion gap between revenue and spending. Finance minister Christian Lindner explained to the media that the government was at present considering several “innovative ways” of covering the shortfall.
ITALY
BELGIUM NETHERLANDS
Deep waters
LUIGI BRUGNARO, Venice mayor, is under investigation and Transport councillor Renato Boraso has been remanded as police probe a corruption case. They and seven others under house arrest are thought to be linked to the sale of the city’s Pili area adjoining the Lagoon, to Singapore businessman Chiat Kwong Ching.
‘Slavery’ case
A POLICE operation freed 33 Indian nationals employed as farm labourers who after paying €17,000 for jobs and work permits had to work 10-hour days, seven days a week for €4. They were located when police investigated the death of an Indian worker whose arm was severed and legs crushed in a work-related accident.
DENMARK PORTUGAL
Socials surfeit
A REPORT from the Justitia thinktank concluded that politicians’ overuse of social media increasingly ate into the time they spent on legislative work and was affecting Denmark’s lawmaking system. An unnamed MP told Justitia that he believed “very few actually did what they were supposed to be doing.”
Saving water
THE Greater Copenhagen region’s Environmental committee is exploring the possibility of using treated groundwater for most purposes apart from drinking water in some areas, committee chair Line Ervolder told the media. “We don’t have endless water resources and need to rethink our consumption,” she said.
Booting up
THE town of Monchique hopes to enter the Guinness Book of Records with the ‘world’s biggest crocheted boot’ which has been created by the Espiral de Vontades association. The bootee styled exactly like a baby’s required more than three tons of wool and practically filled the football pitch where it was put on show.
Keeping tabs
ACCORDING to official figures, 1,450 people over the age of 65 have been reported missing over the last six years. Of these 115 were never found and the PSP police has now introduced a scheme involving a simple bracelet bearing a number which can help to identify an elderly, disorientated person.
Watch it
KALLE SLAAP, a watchmaker from Grootschmermer, hopes to restore the Rolex that UK farmer James Steel, now 95, lost when the strap broke in the early 70s. Steele assumed it had been eaten by a cow but after it was recently discovered by a metal detectorist, Slaap has offered to repair the Air King free of charge.
Fair shares
TWO female judges and the Clara Wichmann feminist group lodged a formal complaint with the Netherlands Human Rights Institute owing to the lower salaries paid to female judges and public prosecutors. As yet, the state has failed to reply to an ultimatum filed by a lawyer acting pro bono for the Clara Wichmann group.
€5,000 Fine
AN Italian journalist, Giulia Cortese has been ordered to pay €5,000 over social media posts mocking Giorgia Meloni’s height.
Cortese was also handed a suspended fine of €1,200, issued for ‘body shaming’, as ruled by a judge. Meloni’s lawyer said she would donate any money she received to charity.
The controversial posts included an artificially edited photo of Giorgia Meloni, standing in front of a framed pho to of an Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini. Italy’s PM had come across the post and wrote on Facebook that the ‘falsified photo’ was of ‘unique gravity’ and that she would take legal action.
Cortese then posted on X; “You don’t scare me, Giorgia Meloni. Af
ter all, you’re only 1.2 metres tall. I can’t even see you.” The PM then took legal action. Giorgia Meloni’s height is reported in Italian media to be 1.63m.
PM.
After receiving the fines, Giulia Cortese made another post on X, commenting that the Italian government has a “serious problem with freedom of expression and journalistic dissent.”
She noted; “This country seems to get close to Orban’s Hungary: these are bad times for independent journalists and opinion leaders. Let’s hope for better days ahead.”
Giorgia Meloni’s fine raised a global discussion about the fine line between freedom of the press and online harassment.
With freedom of the press, comes responsibility and while personal attacks are never justified, there is a growing concern for the government’s filtration of political criticism in the EU.
INTERVIEW
Speaking European Alisa Kuzoyatova
Alisa moved from Poland to Spain 10 years ago and has felt at home in Costa Blanca ever since.
“IT was here that I gave birth to my son, who is now three years old. Here, where he went to kindergarten. Now, he’s already bilingual and has Spanish friends,” Alisa shared.
“So much of the best in my life happened in Spain that I will always love this country.”
Alisa works as an event organiser, often hosting parties for children. She shared that living here has taught her just how strong an international community can get; “As I began working, I started meeting people my age and children from all over the world.
To my surprise, we all had so much in common. And I notice that my son doesn’t see any cultural or language barriers; it’s such a refreshing feeling.” Alisa shared that alongside the amazing weather, what she loves about Spain is “security.
“Here in Costa Blanca, I feel safe. As a woman and as a mother, I don’t feel under threat like I would in some other countries.”
She added that although the process of moving was difficult, it was “absolutely worth it.”
Alisa Kuzoyatova, Polish in Spain.
Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s
Credit: Giorgia Meloni, Facebook
THE world’s first electric airplane is now being built in Sweden; the ES 30 aims to be the first hybrid-electric aircraft suited for 30 passengers, to be in regional traffic by 2030.
“Only 20 per cent of the world’s population has ever flown today,” revealed Christoffer Levandowski, the innovation leader at
Electric planes
Heart Aerospace, who is developing Sweden’s electric aeroplane. “I believe that a major development will take place amongst those who have not yet had the opportunity to fly.”
Today, only two-seater electric aeroplanes are
certified to fly with passengers. Hampus Alfredsson, a researcher in sustainable transport at the RISE Institute, related this to the challenges of extra batteries required for commercial passenger aeroplanes.
Alfredsson noted that;
tric aviation is in the starting pits today, but there is still a lot to do for it to take off.” Although 100 global development projects are underway in electric aviation, the vast majority focus on developing air taxis, not aeroplanes for commercial flying.
In Hisingen, Gothenburg in Sweden, the Säve Airport is expecting to meet the world’s first hybrid electric flight. The battery technology can now keep the aircraft in the air for 32 km but Swedish researchers are planning an in-
The Swedish company, Heart Aerospace managed to extend the flight time by having aircraft engines that can run on sustainable bio-jet fuel for up to 182 km, with established margins where the plane would wait for landing permission or fly to another airport if necessary.
Gambling
MORE people are experiencing a gambling addiction today, revealed figures from the Dutch healthcare information foundation, IVZ.
The figures of people seeking treatment for gambling addiction in the Netherlands have risen by 24 per cent since 2022. In October 2021, online gambling became legalised, which the experts say, has had a “devastating effect.”
Since then, 450,000 more gamblers, including teenagers, started betting, according to the NRC Press. “We expected it would be a couple of years from 2021 before people with a gambling addiction would turn to organisations for help,” said the spokeswoman for the network of addic -
tion centre, Verslavingszorg Nederland Floor to the Press.
“It takes time to become addicted, which means the effects of online gambling did not show up in the figures for a long time,” stated
the spokeswoman. In 2023, almost 2.500 people were treated for a gambling addiction in the Netherlands, 88 per cent were male and 17 per cent were younger than 25. Today, the figures continue to rise.
An addiction to gambling is increasing. Credit: Javon Swaby, Pexels
COSTA BLANCA SOUTH
Quintessentially Queen
MAGICAL NIGHTS welcomes the most authentic Queen tribute, God Save the Queen, to its stage on Friday July 26.
The doors of the Jardines de Abril venue will open at 8.00pm for attendees to enjoy the gardens, live art, the artisan market, and gastronomy before the concert starts at 10.30pm.
Queen remains as popular as ever, continuously selling millions of albums for more than 35 years. The God Save the Queen show brings together all of Queen’s greatest hits in a perfect twohour compilation of musical majesty.
The band covers Queen’s catalogue from its beginnings in 1973 to its last album, Made in Heaven, released after Freddie Mercury’s death in 1991. Hits
such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Love of My Life, We Are the Champions, We Will Rock You, and many others will have the audience on its feet.
For more information or to book your tickets, visit the website noches magicas.es.
The Finca Jardines venue is located at C/ San Antonio 149, Bajo, 03550 Sant Joan d’Alacant.
ELISA SANTIAGO, Pinoso’s councillor for Festivals, is gradually unveiling the lineup for the 2024 Feria y Fiestas. One of the confirmed events is the ‘Nostalgia: Back to the 90s’ party, set to take place on Saturday, August 3, in the Municipal Garden of Pinoso.
DJ Rafa Ruiz, a key figure in organising the event, said: “We wanted to enhance the festival even more this year. Last year’s response was excellent, so we have expanded the lineup to include DJs with a strong 90s tradition, a live performance by an authentic group from the decade, and a presenter who was a prominent announcer during that era.” The party will begin at 10.00pm and is intended for atten-
Image: Noches Magicas
Catherine McGeer
IF you nd yourself in Copenhagen and are looking for a unique adventure, consider going on a troll hunt. This isn’t your typical fairy tale trolls-under-bridges scenario. Instead, you’ll be seeking out enchanting wooden troll sculptures crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Dambo, a modern-day wood wizard, uses recycled materials to create these giants, promoting sustainability through his art. His trolls are scattered around Copenhagen in parks, forests, and lakes, each with its own story and personality.
Hunting for these trolls is like taking part in a treasure hunt. With a map and a sense of adventure, you can discover these hidden giants in beautiful natural settings. Popular trolls include Teddy Friendly, who welcomes visitors with an enormous hand, and Hill Top Trine, who o ers stunning views from her perch. Little Tilde, with her curious eyes, watches over a tranquil lake.
Troll hunting
Troll hunting is perfect for families, encouraging kids to explore nature and learn about recycling. The thrill of nding a troll in its secret spot is a memorable experience for all ages. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a picnic, as many troll locations make great lunch spots. Don’t forget your camera to capture these photogenic trolls!
Choo-choo cuisine
IN celebration of the upcoming National Eisteddfod in August, trains in Wales will feature a new limited edition menu showcasing traditional Welsh produce, including dishes made with seaweed.
The National Eisteddfod, an annual festival celebrating Welsh culture, is held in a di erent location across the country each year.
This year, it will take place in Rhondda Cynon Taf from August 3 to 10.
While these o erings will be exclusive to rst-class trains, standard class passengers will also get a taste of the festival with the ‘Eisteddfod burger’.
Piers Croft, the on-board director at Transport for Wales, stated that the menu provides diners with a chance to “experience the avour of the Eisteddfod.”
He described it as a unique opportunity to celebrate Welsh heritage through a delicious and authentic meal.
To start your adventure, visit Thomas Dambo’s
website (thomas dambo.com) for maps and clues. Troll hunting in Copenhagen is more than just an activity; it’s a delightful experience that combines art, nature, and a touch of magic.
Transport for Wales announced that passengers on select rail services will soon have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of Welsh foods.
The menu includes laverbread (a dish made from edible seaweed) and bacon, Caerphilly chicken supreme, and glazed bara brith.
Lowri Joyce, the Welsh language strategic lead at Transport for Wales, expressed the company’s intention to honour the Welsh language and culture.
She encouraged travellers heading to the Maes (the site of the Eisteddfod) to consider sustainable travel options and to sample the special menu if possible.
Game, set and match
THERE was a computer outage. No big deal you say, it will soon get sorted. Well I’m telling you it’s a very big deal. Let me tell you why. On July 19 there was a faulty update. Just think how many updates you do every day. It doesn’t matter whose fault it was, it happened. I have never heard of Crowd Strike Falcon. It sounds like a B movie title. Apparently it’s a cyber security platform and that messed something up at Microsoft and that in turn triggered the blue screen of death, which most computer users know means you are in real doggy do do! It a ected 8.5 million users including, and this is why it’s a really big deal, the aviation industry - ights were cancelled all over the world - nancial institutions, cash machines, ability to do transfers and healthcare.
The UK is still reporting problems within the NHS appointments etc. Media and entertainment, retail and services like Starbucks. Imagine not being able to get your overpriced poncy co ee - the list goes on. To me it shows how vulnerable we are.
Mike’s
There are hackers out there that can do whatever they like and if a cyber security rm can cause so many problems by getting a line of programming wrong unintentionally, just think how bad it could be when some spotty kid wants to have some ‘fun’ or hold the world to ransom. Every time this happens I know that very soon we will wake up and nothing will work. Then what?
I have an ongoing problem with restaurants that serve the 220cl coca cola instead of the full size 330cl bottle or can. It’s just another way of ripping us o and I want everyone to complain when they get the soft drink of their choice in this mixer bottle size. But there was a nice little incident the other night. I was in a beach bar with friends and I wanted a coke zero in a can but they only had small bottles. ‘But when I’m on the beach you give me a can as no glass is allowed.’ ‘Yes’, they say, ‘but you are in the restaurant now’. So I got up and walked the ve steps to the beach and then said to her, ‘Can I have a coke zero please?’ She smiled and got me a coke zero in a can and put it on the table with the other drinks. Game, set and match this time for Mr Grumpy.
Email: mikesenker@gmail.com
VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN
MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION
Copenhagen’s hidden trolls.
Worry-free travel
HOLIDAYS in Europe are on many people’s summer lists, and going on them worry-free makes any holiday that much better.
This is exactly what the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) permits you to do.
First issued in January 2004, the EHIC allows you to receive necessary and urgent medical care abroad.
When you present the card, you will be able to obtain healthcare services directly from a public or con-
tracted provider, “under the same conditions and at the same cost as people insured in the country you are visiting” as stated on the European Commission website.
This will relieve many people’s concerns when travelling abroad, giving access to local healthcare while on holiday, including for chronic or existing illnesses, as well as pregnancy and childbirth.
The EHIC is valid in any EU country, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein,
Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
It is not, however, an alternative to travel insurance as it does not cover any private healthcare costs or planned medical treatments.
It should also be remembered that each country’s healthcare system is different, and some services that are free at home might cost in another country.
Please ensure you know what you need, when and where, before travelling on holiday this summer.
Getting your EHIC card this summer could make travelling more care-free.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Inching up
SUPERMARKET shoppers are returning to Waitrose for the first time since 2022 as the cost-of-living crisis begins to ease with sales rising 3.3 per cent in the 12 weeks ending July 7, market researchers Kantar said. The chain owned by John Lewis now has a 4.5 per cent market share, compared with 4.4 per cent a year ago.
Off the list
CANADIAN fund Brookfield Capital Partners and the Grifols family’s proposed joint takeover to delist the blood plasma pharmaceuticals company has resulted in a price rise for shares. These now hover at around €10 for the first time since they plummeted to €6.90 following an attack by short-seller Gotham City.
Real deal
GOLDMAN SACHS is boosting bankers’ pay, including bonuses, by 17 per cent after second-quarter profits more than doubled following an increase in deal-making. This will inevitably bring much larger rewards for Goldman’s 6,000 employees in the UK who are no longer affected by the previous bonus cap.
Naturgy fine
TWO companies belonging to Spanish multinational Naturgy were fined $14 million (€12.8 million) for their deficient electricity distribution in Panama. This was the “highest, most historic fine” yet imposed for a flawed service, Zelmar Rodriguez who heads Panama’s National Public Services Authority (ASEP), said.
Off the hook
CHARLIE STAYT, the BBC
Breakfaster presenter agreed to settle an unpaid tax bill of about £190,000 (€225,261) to avert imminent bankruptcy. HMRC had filed a bankruptcy petition against Stayt and his wife, Anne, which it withdrew after they reduced the amount of the debt and agreed to pay the remainder.
STAT OF WEEK
€1.2 billion
in funding has been guaranteed by the state-participated Export Credit Insurance Company (Cesce) to ensure that Siemens Gamesa can complete its orders for wind turbines.
A promise to deliver Out of fashion
ROYAL MAIL’S probable new owner accepts the postal service’s commitment to delivering UK letters six days a week.
Talking exclusively to the BBC, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky emphasised that he “completely excluded” making any change to the existing Universal Service Obligation (USO) requirement.
Kretinsky already has a 27.6 per cent holding in Royal Mail’s parent company International Distribution Services (IDS) and he has now put in a a £3.6 billion (€4.3 billion) offer for the remainder. Taking assumed debts into consideration, the operation will be worth £5 billion (€5.9 billion) in all.
The IDS board has now accepted Kretinsky’s offer and the shareholders are expected to approve the deal although the government
FOUR months ago Hungarian consortium Ganz Mavag launched a takeover offer for all Talgo shares at a premium price of €5 per share.
The government classes the Spanish train manufacturer as a “strategic asset” and took an un favourable view of the public offer from the outset, suspecting that the bid could be backed by Rus sian funding.
Since then, Madrid has sou ght an alternative, which now appears to have materialised in the shape of a ‘business combination and industrial merger’ offer from the Czech company Skoda Trans-
will have the last word on whether or not this nationally important transaction can go ahead. In a BBC exclusive, Kretinsky re-
vealed that he was ready to share profits with Royal Mail’s 150,000 employees but was less keen on the unions’ suggestion that workers should have a stake in the company.
The USO could prove another obstacle for both government and unions.
Ninety-two per cent of first class mail was arriving punctually 10 years ago, the Office of Communications (Ofcom) regulator announced. By 2023 when Royal Mail was fined £5.6 million (€6.6 million) for failing to meet delivery targets, this had dwindled to 74 per cent.
Despite Kretinsky’s assertion that Royal Mail would continue delivering six days a week “as long as I’m alive” his formal offer in fact puts in writing that he will honour the USO for five years.
On a different
Wine selloff Prime sites
LLOYDS BANKING
GROUP will turn disused office sites into social housing.
The bank is launching the scheme in Pudsey (West Yorkshire) but announced that it was also reviewing possible sites elsewhere in the UK that could be suitable for similar projects.
Lloyds said it would sell the Pudsey site to a local housing group with the understanding that 80 new homes will be rented out at around half the going rate.
PERNOD RICARD is selling its international wine brands as it shifts its focus to spirits and Champagne.
The French company’s portfolio of wines produced in Spain, Australia and New Zealand will now belong to Australian Wine Holdco, a consortium of international institutional investors which is already the owner of Australia-based Accolade Wines.
The deal should be completed by the second half of 2025 and in Spain will affect the Campo Viejo, Ysios, Tarsus and Azpilicueta bodegas.
Pernod Ricard, a rival to the UK’s Diageo, did not reveal how much it would make from the sale, but said that between them the bodegas produced an annual 10 million cases of wine.
track
portation, which has no links to the carmaker.
According to Reuters, Talgo has asked Skoda for “detailed information” which would help it to make comparisons with Ganz-Mavag’s €619 million.
Spanish sources close to the operation said to financial daily Cinco Dias that CriteriaCaixa, the La Caixa Foundation’s investment company, is likely to plays an important part in the deal, albeit as a minority partner.
No change
THE likelihood of an interest rate cut receded after the UK inflation rate remained unchanged at 2 per cent in June.
A hoped-for reduction thanks to lower prices for clothes and cheaper second-hand cars was foiled by a rise of almost 9 per cent in the price of hotels attributed to the ‘Taylor Swift effect’ on accommodation prices during the singer’s series of concerts.
Based on the June figures from the Office for National Statistics, the next Bank of England meeting on August 1 was unlikely to announce reduction in the current 5.25 per cent bank rate the City said.
BURBERRY has suspended its dividend, replaced its chief executive, and issued its second profit warning this year.
‘Disappointing’ revenue fell 20 per cent during the second quarter that ended on June 29 and shares fell by 16 per cent at close of trading on Monday July 15.
Chief executive Jonathan Akeroyd left the company ‘with immediate effect and by mutual agreement’ the same day, while Burberry replaced him with Joshua Schulman, former chief executive of US brand Coach who received a £9.2 million (€10.9 million) ‘golden hello’.
SPANISH fashion chain Mango reported half-year sales of €1.54 billion, a 6.3 per cent increase on the same period in 2023.
Victoria Beckham’s capsule collection helped to boost womenswear sales by 4 per cent, men’s clothing jumped 21 per cent during the same period with an 11 per cent increase for children’s and teenagers’ lines.
The first-half figures arrived after the group closed 2023 with record sales of €172 million, compared with €81 million in 2022 with revenues expected to top €3.36 billion by 2026.
WORKPLACE
accidents caused by high temperatures rose by 24 per cent in Spain in 2023. Independent research by the UGT union found that 199 people had to take time off work owing to heatstroke, 27 per cent up on 2022. Accidents resulting from exposure to extreme heat, light and radiation increased by 18 per cent to 105.
The report predicted that these types of accidents would inevitably intensify and warned that the official figures probably did not include all incidents.
NO CHANGE: Royal Mail’s future owner will honour delivery schedule.
Photo credit: Flickr/Steve 1
Photo credit: CC/Falk2
SKODA TRANSPORTATION: Rivalling Ganz Mavag in Talgo takeover.
Tram lines
THE Stadler plant in Albuixech (Valencia) will build the 504 trams that the Swiss company has been contracted to provide for a consortium of German and Austrian railway companies. A €45 million subsidy from the Valencian Community’s regional government was instrumental in the decision, which will provide nine years of stable employment for the factory’s 2,200 staff.
Rescue op
A CONSORTIUM led by British millionaire, ‘Cosmetics King’ Mike Jatania, has agreed to buy The Body Shop out of administration. No financial details were revealed but the administrators have agreed to an ‘exclusivity agreement’ following a ‘competitive bidding process’.
A new suitor
ANOTHER bidder, CVC Capital Partners, has entered The Telegraph auction.
The newspaper has been ownerless since June 2023 after Lloyds bank seized The Telegraph and The Spectator as part-payment against the Barclay family’s £1.16 billion (€1.38 billion) debts.
These were paid by RedBird IMI, an investment fund linked to the rulers of the United Arab Emirates,
but the previous government hastily brought in legislation aimed specifica-
lly at preventing Redbird IMI from taking over the publications.
A family affair
HORTENSIA HERRERA, the wife of Mercadona founder Juan Roig, received €59.5 million in Mercadona dividends last year. Herrera’s 27.71 per cent holding makes her the supermarket chain’s second most-important shareholder, but over the years she has also built up a personal fortune via Herrecha Inversiones, Investments include the recently-acquired 30 per cent of made-to-measure
furniture company Grupo Malasa whose principal client is the Inditex clothing giant.
Although Herrera is Herrecha’s sole shareholder, her four daughters - Hortensia, Carolina, Juana Clara and Desamparados are on the board.
According to annual accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, Roig’s wife has earned €464 million in Mercadona dividends over the last 10 years.
Private equity firm CVC, which manages £164 billion (€195.47 billion) and has a holding in Premiership Rugby and the Six Nations, is now preparing for talks, City sources quoted by the Telegraph revealed.
Negotiations were by no means finalised and there was no guarantee that CVC was going to make a firm offer, they stressed, although this was the second time that CVC had shown an interest in the Telegraph
In 2004, CVC had discussed the possibility of backing Daily Mail owner, Lord Rothermere’s bid for the newspaper, which instead was acquired by the Barclays.
This time round Rothermere has pulled out.
Meanwhile, should CVC go ahead, the fund is expected to pay below the £510 million (€608.2 million) Redbird IMI paid in December 2023.
New role
HSBC’S Finance chief Georges Elhedery, appointed chief executive following the unexpected exit of Noel Quinn for personal reason, takes up his new role in September. In a nod to Asian investors who are exerting pressure on Europe’s biggest lender to switch its headquarters to China, Elhedery will be the bank’s first Mandarin-speaking chief executive.
Record profit
BANKINTER beat its own record with pretax profits of €715.4 million during the first six months of 2024, 14.4 per cent higher than in 2023. The bank’s net profit of €473 million was 13.3 per cent up on the same period last year.
Photo credit: CC/Ethan Doyle White
DAILY TELEGRAPH: The newspaper’s original Fleet Street home.
Give us all a break
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS
THINK IT
HERE they go again. Emerging from their cosseted bolt holes, the conspiracy theory time wasters are insisting that the Trump attack was not an attempted assassination at all, but a plot to help him win the approaching presidential election.
They even managed to have their views featured in one of the main UK dailies.’ It wasn’t a bullet’ they squawk, ‘it was a phial which he broke on his ear to release the blood’. What a load of codswallop.
Let’s just briefly run these idiotic theories by and sling them all into the bin where they belong.
To carry out a conspiracy of this magnitude the plotters had to find a sham assassin, one prepared to risk being shot dead. Inveigle most of Trump’s highly paid secret service body guards into the scheme plus the local police. Somehow shoot three spectators, killing one, almost fatally injuring two more and conspiring with the local hospital doctors and
nurses to cover the fact that he wasn’t injured at all. Give us all a break. Life really is too short to waste it on complete twaddle. Mind you there is one thing that will assuredly come out of it; barring a catastrophe Trump will undoubtedly be the next American President. But then I always said he would be didn’t I?
If you really want to raise a conspiracy theory, concentrate on Biden’s team who decided that to cover all his disastrous mistakes, gaffes and dementia lapses they would announce to the world he had acquired Covid. Bye Bye Biden.
Do you really think humanity has any chance at all with that lot of numbskulls at the helm?
Just heard the most deplorable story from a lady friend in the UK. She manages the local Co-op and was telling me how difficult it was to stop the shoplifters.
She said they actually fill their bags and simply walk out of the store laughing at the security. But that was by no means the most adverse story she had to impart.
Apparently her sister was also the manageress of another local branch.
Realising she was not allowed to call the police for the theft of under £200 worth of goods she decided to tackle one of these toe rags on her own, indulging in a tug of war with one endeavouring to leave her store with his bag of swag. Eventually the man managed to pull free and exit with the loot. However this was by no means the end of the matter.
No doubt on the advice of one of the dubious lawyers, who now abound in the UK, the man decided to sue the company for the ‘whiplash’ he contracted during the ‘struggle’. The result?
The man won his case and received £5,000 compensation from the Coop.
To top it all, the poor manageress, merely trying to do her job, was actually sacked by the company. Nothing but a pure disgrace; encouraged by the woke run authorities. And now the British people are under a Labour government. Believe meyou really ain’t seen nothing yet!
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.
Asylum seeker’s bikes
MANY asylum seekers who entered Finland via its eastern border with Russia did so riding bicycles which were then left at the point of entry.
Originally, Finnish customs planned to auction the bicycles in May of this year but that was postponed and now, on July 20 approximately 250 bicycles of different styles and makes were put up for auction in Kansankentura.
The rules governing the auction were very strict with Customs not prepared to guarantee the condition, quality, safety, or suitability of the bicycles for their original use, as all sales were ‘as found’.
Buyers were required to pay 24 per cent VAT on the cost of the bicycles (although companies who could prove they were purchased for business use could later reclaim the tax paid.)
All sales were final but the purchase price had to be paid within one hour of the auction ending and removed by 6pm of the same day otherwise the ownership would revert to the Finnish State and no refund would be made.
According to the Finnish Customs office, this auction presented a unique opportunity for buyers to acquire bicycles at potentially reduced prices while also helping Customs clear seized items efficiently.
Just some of the bicycles on offer.
Everyday fitness
FUNCTIONAL fitness focuses on training the body for activities performed in daily life. Unlike traditional gym workouts that often isolate specific muscles, functional fitness involves exercises that mimic real-life movements, enhancing overall strength, balance, and flexibility. This approach prepares individuals for everyday tasks, from lifting groceries to climbing stairs, by using compound movements like squats, lunges, and push-ups.
One of the key benefits of functional fitness is its adaptability to all fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, exercises can be modified to suit your capabilities.
This type of training not only improves physical health but also reduces the risk of injury by promoting better body mechanics and posture.
beneficial for older adults, as it supports mobility and independence.
Engaging in regular functional fitness routines can lead to improved joint health, muscle strength, and cardiovascular endurance, contributing to a higher quality of life.
Embrace functional fitness to stay active and capable throughout life’s daily demands.
Stylish silver shades
CHOOSING the best colour to complement grey hair can transform your look, highlighting the natural beauty of your silver strands. Grey hair often has a cool undertone, making cool colours particularly flattering. Shades like icy blue, emerald green, and royal purple bring out the vibrancy in grey hair, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Neutral tones also work wonderfully. Crisp white creates a striking contrast, enhancing the brightness of grey hair. Charcoal and slate greys can create a cohesive, polished look without appearing dull. On the warmer side, soft pinks and lavender can add a gentle glow, making your skin appear radiant and youthful.
fident and stylish appearance. Avoid overly warm tones like yellow or orange, as they may clash with the coolness of grey hair. Ultimately, experimenting with different colours and finding what makes you feel confident and comfortable is the key to complementing your grey hair beautifully.
Bold colours, such as deep red or navy, can make a powerful statement, giving you a con-
Face your anger
ANGER is a natural and powerful emotion that everyone experiences. Suppressing it can lead to stress, health issues, and strained relationships. It’s crucial to face your anger and let it out healthily.
Recognise and Understand:
The first step is to acknowledge your anger. Understand what triggers it and why it affects you. This awareness can help you address the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
Express Yourself: Find constructive ways to express your anger. This could be through talking to a trusted friend, writing in a journal, or engaging in physical activities like exercise. Physical exertion can be particularly effective in releasing built-up tension.
Practise Calm Communication: When addressing the source of your anger, use calm and assertive communication. Avoid aggressive or passive-aggressive behaviour. Clearly state your feelings and needs without blaming or attacking others. Seek Professional Help:
If anger becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a therapist or counsellor. They can provide strategies to manage and express anger healthily.
Old and bold Style over substance
VINTAGE make-up looks are timeless and continue to inspire modern beauty trends. The se classic styles, rooted in various eras, bring a touch of glamour and nostalgia to contempo rary fashion.
1920s: The Roaring Twenties introduced bold, smoky eyes, thin brows, and dark red lips. Women embraced dra matic looks with heavy eyeliner and a cupid’s bow lip shape.
1930s: Make-up be came softer with an em phasis on feminine ele gance. Thin, arched eyebrows, pastel eyeshadows, and rose-coloured lips were po pular, giving a delicate and sophisticated appearance.
1940s: Du ring the Second World War, practicality met
style. Red lips remained a staple, while make-up
routines became more streamlined. Natural-looking skin and subtle eye make-up complemented the bold lip.
: The glamorous ‘50s celebrated full, arched brows, cat-eye eyeliner, and vibrant red or pink lips. Marilyn Monroe epitomised this era with her iconic beauty look.
1960s: The Mod era brought dramatic changes with bold, graphic eyeliner, thick lashes, and pale lips. Twiggy’s famous doe-eyed look became a hallmark of ‘60s beauty. Each vintage make-up era offers unique elements that can be adapted to modern styles, allowing for creative and timeless beauty expressions.
MILLIONS of Brits are putting their eye health at risk by choosing style over substance when it comes to choosing their sunglasses, according to new research from Specsavers.
Nearly one in four say they are more likely to purchase a pair of sunglasses based on looks alone rather than the level of protection against ultraviolet (or UV) rays they provide.
The poll of 2,000 UK adults also uncovered a lack of awareness around how effective - or ineffective - an individual pair of sunglasses can be against UV rays.
Sunglasses must bear the CE Mark and be marked as UV400 to offer effective UV protection.
A fifth admit to not knowing how effective their cho
sen shades are in protecting them from UV rays, while over a third said they were unaware that sunglasses had different levels of UV protection.
Just under a quarter reported they believed sunglasses with larger lenses provided better protection from UV rays, a further 14 per cent also thought sunglasses with darker lenses offered the same protection.
The study also showed that just under a third are concerned about sun damage to their eyes if they forget their shades on a sunny day. A little over one in 20 confess their biggest concern would be adding to the wrinkles around their eyes. While almost two-fifths of people wish they’d taken better care of their eyes in the past, only one-fifth wear sunglasses all year round. This is despite the risk of sun damage during any season, with only 15 per cent wearing sunglasses on dull days.
www.specsavers.es
Crystal clear care
‘GLASS SKIN’ is a term used to describe a complexion that is exceptionally smooth, clear, and luminous, resembling a pane of glass. Originating from Korean beauty trends, achieving glass skin involves a meticulous skincare routine focused on hydration, exfoliation, and nourishment.
moisture, and finish with a sunscreen to protect the skin from UV da mage. Consistent use of products with ingre dients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and
niacinamide will help achieve and maintain that coveted glass skin look. Regular facials and a healthy diet can also contribute to a glowing, glass-like complexion.
Happy hormones
To achieve glass skin, start with a double cleanse to remove impurities and make-up without stripping natural oils. Follow with an exfoliating toner to slough away dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. Hydration is key, so use a hydrating toner, essence, and serum to deeply moisturise the skin. Incorporate a sheet mask several times a week to boost hydration levels further.
Apply a lightweight moisturiser to lock in
BALANCING hormones naturally can significantly enhance overall well-being. Dietary changes are a vital first step. Consuming a diet rich in healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and seeds, supports hormone production. Incorporating fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps regulate oestrogen levels, promoting hormonal balance. Regular physical activity also plays a crucial role. Engaging in consistent exercise, especially activities like yoga or walking, can reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, a hormone that, when elevated, disrupts overall hormonal harmony.
Adequate sleep is another essential component. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to help your body reset and maintain optimal hormone levels. Poor sleep can significantly impact hormones like insulin and cortisol. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness techniques such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises can prevent hormonal imbalances caused by chronic stress. Natural supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, may also support hormonal health. Before starting any new supplement regimen, consult a healthcare professional.
Health ring
YOU’VE heard of a mood ring but a health ring is the latest and perhaps the most stylish innovation in the world of smart accessories.
The South Korean manufacturer, Samsung, presented its latest development, the Galaxy Ring, recently in Paris. A device equipped with sensors and artificial intelligence monitors the user’s health, all the while remaining a small and sleek complimentary accessory.
The ring doesn’t exceed three grams in weight; its lightness makes it a comfortable wear 24/7. The ring has a uniquely long-lasting battery that lasts up to seven days, without having to take it off for recharging.
With the device, some phone functions including camera activation and alarm deactivation can be accessed, making the accessory a highly useful tool for daily use.
The Vice President and Head of Samsung’s mobile division in the UK and Ireland, James Kitto, described the device as the “smallest and most discrete product, yet, offering accurate 24/7 health, wellness and sleep tracking.”
The intriguing device will be on sale in the UK from Wednesday July 24; its launch in Spain has not yet been announced but Samsung assured that it will be available throughout Europe for the price of €450.
Protect your mane
DEFENDING your hair against sun damage is essential for maintaining its health and shine. Here are some effective tips to shield your locks from harmful UV rays:
Use UV Protection Products: Apply leave-in conditioners or sprays with UV filters to create a barrier against sun damage. These products help prevent colour fading and dryness.
Stay Hydrated: Hydrated hair is less prone to sun damage. Use deep conditioning treatments regularly to maintain moisture levels.
Avoid Heat Styling: Minimise the use of heat styling tools, as they can exacerbate sun damage. Embrace natural hairstyles whenever possible.
Rinse After Swimming: Chlorine and saltwater can intensify sun damage. Rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after swimming to remove harmful residues.
Most importantly - Wear a Hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent protection for your hair and scalp, reducing exposure to direct sunlight.
By following these tips, you can keep your hair healthy, shiny, and protected from the sun’s damaging effects.
LOST IN TRANSLATION (1)
WHEN I first came to Spain, I thought learning Spanish would be a no-brainer! After all, kids speak it! I then did what all expats do. I joined a class, two hours, twice a week. After a few weeks, I felt I was losing bits of key information.
Like how to yawn, as my brain swelled up with “Yo estoy. Tú estás...” Right, plan two: just one hour twice a week. OK, but s-lo-w.
My Spanish is now OK but, frankly, the Spanish don’t help with their memory problems. They keep forgetting the beginning and end of words!
Remember though, they don’t speak Castilian Spanish here on the Costa del Sol, but Andaluz or Andalucian: often a whole new language.
Overall, my Spanish has hugely improved and I can confidently ask for things in shops etc.
But why do shop assistants reckon that because you’ve said one sentence in Spanish you can speak it fluently? And never use
NORA JOHNSON
BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL
SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
one word in reply when hundreds will do?
Just a moment! I’ve spent all this time and money learning Spanish, when it should have been Andalucian.
A bit like going to Italy and learning German. I’ve just checked the local papers and there wasn’t one advert for Andalucian classes - only Spanish.
I’ve spotted a red-hot business opportunity. Now if I could only speak fluent Andalucian!
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.
Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
EES delayed again
THE anticipated launch date for the new Entry-Exit System (EES), intended to streamline the passport control process, has been rescheduled to November 10.
The reasons for this postponement have not been officially disclosed, but it is widely believed to be a response to pressure from member states that require more time to prepare for the implementation.
Prior to the confirmed delay, several airports had expressed concerns about being ready for an October launch date. Smaller airports, in particular, are struggling with setting up the divides needed for the registration of non-EU travellers.
The original launch date was supposed to be in 2021, and the last pushback came at the request of France, who were concerned about the impact it would have on the Sum-
EES system further delayed until November.
mer Olympics.
The good news is that amid fears of extreme queue rises, the EES system will now be launched in conjunction with an app which aims to alleviate this concern. The app will enable data pre-registration so that most procedures for travelling under the new system can be carried out online.
However, to adequately assess its effectiveness, the app must be tested
with a host of end-users and in multiple languages. While officials from the European Union are confident that the app will be fully operational in time, representatives from the UK remain unconvinced.
According to Nichola Mallon of trade body logistics, the app will not be ready before the summer of 2025, as the EU does not have time to test fully before October.
Costa del Sol
Costa del Sol on screen
NETFLIX’S new series, Kaos, which was spotted filming several scenes in spots around Malaga, will premiere on the streaming platform on August 29.
Created by the scriptwriter behind ‘End of the F****** World’, Kaos is a reimagining of the myths of ancient Greek mythology, juxtaposed with today’s modern world. In Netflix’s 20-second teaser trailer, Jeff Goldblum is shown as a tracksuit-clad Zeus and aerial shots of Malaga are shown intercut with shots of chaos and jubilation in the streets.
Produced by Sister Production, Kaos will bring scenes shot in Marbella, Malaga, and Velez to screens worldwide.
Netflix tried to maintain a low profile during their filming, however, stars like Jeff Goldblum and Nabhaan Rizwan were quickly spotted by many during the production. Some scenes were on-location as early as 2021, featuring Malaga’s Calle Parras adorned with murals portraying Poseidon.
Axarquia
Railway connection
THE Nerja Town Hall is calling on the Spanish government to establish a railway connection between Nerja and Malaga. In a council meeting on July 18, a proposal was set for approval, requesting the government to initiate a feasibility study that outlines the necessary steps for establishing this connection.
Mayor José Alberto Armijo stated the importance of this initiative, noting that it will be defended at a Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility meeting in Malaga. The proposal, driven by the mayor and council members, has gained official backing from various local groups and political parties including PSOE, Podemos, and Izquierda Unida con Nerja. This initiative follows the Ministry’s response to Armijo’s Senate inquiry, confirming the connection is not currently planned.
Armijo criticised the government for neglecting the Axarquia in their planning. He urged reconsideration, highlighting the coastal train’s potential to improve regional connectivity, mobility, and economic, social, and tourism development.
Mallorca We Love Tourism
A NEW website entitled We Love Tourism in Mallorca.Com is fighting back against the anti-tourism movement.
Set up by residents, who feel that tourists are key to Mallorca’s economy, the site says - “At ‘We Love Tourism Mallorca’, we understand that Mallorca is facing a saturation problem, but we firmly believe that it is not only the responsibility of tourists, nor is the solution to close the entrance to our island.
“The situation is complex and many variables come into play, which is why we cannot demonise tourism alone. It would be advisable to analyse more parameters and take into account other perspectives. We would therefore like to send a message of support and affection to all our visitors in the face of the protests of the last few days.”
The website contains a form where you can submit your ideas.
Costa Blanca North Vibrant Villajoyosa
THE town of Villajoyosa bursts into life tomorrow, offering an enchanting display of sights and sounds as it plays host to the extraordinary celebration of the Moors and Christians.
The festivities will feature gastronomic competitions, lively open-air dances, dazzling fireworks, and captivating music. However, the true highlight is the re-enactment of the disembarkation
Early risers who make their way to the beach by 5am will be treated to an incredible re-enactment, celebrating the landing in a unique and breathtaking manner. Christians adorned in full regalia will prepare the defence artillery on the shore as more than 30 Muslim boats materialise on the horizon.
The action unfolds in dramatic fashion with both armies engaging in a gripping battle on land until they reach the foot of the castle. Ultimately, victory falls to the Moors, and the Christians are compelled to retreat.
Almeria Bird rescued
ALERTED to the fact that an unusual bird had been spotted in difficulties in a field in Roquetas de Mar, officers from the National Police attended.
They discovered that a juvenile young bird, later identified as a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) appeared to be exhausted and it was decided that it was safest for the bird to be taken for veterinary inspection.
Acting slowly so as not to disturb the Ibis, officers placed it into a cardboard box and arranged for it to be transferred to the Los Molinos de Almeria clinic, where it was declared uninjured. It was then placed into the care of the recovery centre before it is released back into the wild.
The Glossy Ibis is not considered an endangered or even vulnerable species as there are large numbers, particularly in Africa and Australia but this individual was presumably part of a migrating flock.
Costa Calida
Mazarron tops rankings
AS of mid-2024, Mazarron has overtaken Gandia as the most profitable coastal area for property investments in Spain. According to Fotocasa’s ‘Profitability in Coastal Towns in Summer 2024,’ the average return on coastal properties is 6.5 per cent. Mazarron, located in Murcia, now leads with an impressive return of 11.4 per cent, surpassing Gandia’s 10.8 per cent. Gandia, which had been at the top for the past three years, is now in second place. The report notes that only these two towns offer returns exceeding 10 per cent this year, whereas five towns surpassed this threshold in 2023.
Other notable coastal areas with high returns include Laredo and Águilas, both at 9.6 per cent. Conversely, San Sebastian and Calpe have the lowest returns, at 3.7 per cent. Maria Matos from Fotocasa highlights that while coastal property returns are generally strong, Valencia’s coast has notably outperformed Andalucia this year and Murcia continues to rise.
Find a pet-sitter who will cherish your pets
WE all want our pets to be well cared for in our absence. No, in fact we want them to be cherished as well as safe and happy in their own home. But how expensive does that care for your pets need to be? Ferguson always has HouseSitMatch pet-sitters to care for him in his own home.
The golden years
AS pets age, their care needs evolve, necessitating more attention to maintain their quality of life.
The ‘HHHHHMM’ scale, which stands for Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More Good Days Than Bad, is a helpful tool for assessing senior pets’ well-being.
Hurt involves managing any pain through regular veterinary visits. Hunger ensures they maintain a healthy appetite and weight. Hydration checks that they are drinking enough water.
Hygiene focuses on cleanliness and grooming to prevent infections.
Happiness evaluates their mental health and engagement in activities.
Mobility assesses their ease of movement and absence of significant pain. Finally, ensuring there are More Good Days Than Bad helps in making compassionate decisions about their care.
By closely monitoring these factors, owners can provide their senior pets with the best possible care, ensuring they enjoy their golden years comfortably and happily.
Pawfect pet donations
DONATING to your local animal shelter can make a significant difference in the lives of animals awaiting their forever homes.
The best items to donate include pet food, both dry and canned, to ensure a consistent and nutritious diet for the animals.
High-quality, durable toys are essential for keeping animals engaged and mentally stimulated.
Bedding, blankets, and towels provide comfort and warmth, especially for young or sick animals. Cleaning supplies such as bleach, laundry detergent, and paper towels are crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment. Additionally, leashes, collars, and harnesses help in the safe handling and exercise of dogs.
Cat litter and litter boxes are always in demand, as are grooming supplies like brushes and pet shampoo. Monetary donations are also highly valued, allowing shelters to address their most pressing needs directly. Every contribution, big or small, helps improve the lives of shelter animals.
By joining a house-sitting platform like HouseSitMatch we facilitate an old-fashioned barter exchange where a pet owner provides the pet-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 because the Pet-sitting is Free!
If you use HouseSitMatch.com you find free checked pet-sitters who pay their way to stay in your home caring for your pets in your absence. It’s an arrangement facilitated by a managed online system. Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services - Free accommodation for free pet care!
HouseSitMatch is Safe - All Members Are Checked
All members are checked for safety, 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 for you and your pets.
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.
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
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.
info@petsinspain.com
www.petsinspain.com
Leo is 1 of 5 kittens in need of new homes. They are around 7 weeks old, litter trained and sociable
Photocredit Shutterstock/Budimir Jevtic
Ferguson is a friendly cat and loves company.
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
Iberian edition Porsche
IN 1984, Porsche changed from being represented in Spain by an importer to owning a subsidiary, now called Porsche Ibérica.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary the company is creating an exclusive and highly individualised edition of the iconic 911 in limited numbers.
The idea behind the Cuarenta Edition was to create a 911 that would have been ordered by a Spanish or Portuguese customer 40 years ago and that is still fashionable and desirable to
day.
In this second phase of the 911 series, the Carrera GTS version is equipped with the new T-Hybrid drive system. It combines an electric motor integrated into the turbocharger, a lightweight high-voltage battery, and an electric motor coupled to the eight-speed PDK gearbox.
This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in three seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h (194 mph).
gos inspired by Iberian history and culture.
For the Cuarenta Edition, a bespoke exterior colour has been created which has been named Quercusverde which is reminiscent of the very particular shade that holm oak leaves have and this green colour is characteristic of the typical landscape of Spain and Portugal.
The interior is designed in a two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather combination. The darker brown shade is applied on the instrument panel and lower surfaces. The lighter is applied on the trim surfaces, whilst the upholstery contains a green tartan finish.
Customers will also receive an indoor car cover custom-made for the Cuarenta Edition. Executed in Quercusverde, it features a Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo on front, Cuarenta Edition lettering on sides in Cremewhite and badge on the rear.
ROAD TEST
By Mark Slack
WHEN asked about large, luxury SUVs most people will always mention Ran ge Rover (of course), Audi and BMW. Think about the Range Rover Velar, BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Well there is an overlooked rival here, and bear with me, it’s from Mazda. The CX-60 meets all the criteria, it’s large, it’s luxury and it comes with all-wheel-drive. It may be somewhat subdued on the looks front when compa red to a Range Rover or Ger man rivals, but sometimes dis creet is good. It’s one of those kind of cars where those that know, know, and not least because it’s full of standard equipment, extremely well bolted together, has a feeling of premium quality and in diesel form has a superb six-cylin der in-line straight six engine. The re’s also the CX-80 which is effectively a larger version that has more seating options.
Now I don’t dispute that those in search of badge one-upmanship will gravitate towards more well-known premium motors and dismiss my comparison, but the Mazda is more about value for money luxury. Both in terms of running costs and the initial purcha-
Mazda CX-60 - very impressive and economical SUV luxury
se price the Mazda offers an affordable touch of quality.
These days some may baulk at the option of diesel power but Mazda has always supplied excellence in its engineering and the e-Skyactive D engine comes with mild hybrid assistance, excellent economy and low emissions.
It also performs well, not that the CX60 is the kind of vehicle you’ll be piloting at speed across twisting cross country roads, but in its most powerful diesel form it reaches the benchmark 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds.
In my view in-line straight six engines always return superb driver feedback and the Mazda is no exception. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a smooth affair and the engine seems to offer endless reserves of ‘pull’ and in 254PS form provides 550Nm of torque. It seemed to me impossible to not find a comfortable driving position in the CX-60 and the interior is not only of superb quality but provides buttons rather than endless touch screen mania that seems to prevail nowadays. My only real niggle is that the overall ride quality is sometimes compromised over rougher surfaces, but I suspect most would not even notice such minor imperfections.
If you want an affordable touch of luxury SUV on your drive then the CX-60 is well worth a drive. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
AFFORDABLE LUXURY: I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Walking football
TEAM SPAIN, the international representative walking football organisation, travelled to Nantes, France, earlier this month to compete in a European event featuring competitions for men at +50 / +60 and ladies +40. It was the first time that Team Spain were represented in three categories against some of the best teams in the World.
Following on from last year’s strong showing in the World Nations Cup at St George’s Park , England, where Team Spain over 50s, the sole representative side, reached the semifinals it was with great anticipation that the players flew in from Alicante, Malaga and Sevilla to represent their country.
Against stellar opponents in every age group Team Spain won all their opening fixtures which included a first International win for the ladies against Republic of Ireland 3-1. Buoyed by this success ‘La Rioja’ continued to put in impressive performances throughout the day but could not add to their points total against vastly more experienced opponents in the shape of France, England and Italy. The majority of the ladies qualified for the age group above the competition they played in and so they deserve great credit for their performances.
After Team Spain men enjoyed encouraging starts they also fell away from contention but not before they recorded an impressive 4-2 win against the hosts at +50 and a newly assembled +60 enjoyed wins over Switzer-
land, Basque Country before drawing with Ireland. At one point it looked like the +60 might exceed all reasonable expectations before a loss against England and dark horses Jersey put an end to that dream. Sadly injuries took their toll on the side and further defeats to France and Italy on day two saw the team finish a credible fifth out of eighth in their first International tournament - there is certainly bigger things to come fin the future.
Mark Kavanagh, the +50 manager, was disappointed with his team’s final placing but conceded that lack of preparation due to player unavailability and having to field a completely new team from that of last August contributed to an unfavourable set of results. That said, only another one goal deficit to World Nations champions England and a 3-1 lead against the Basque Country surrendered prevented a top three finish. A further lead was wiped away by surprise package Jersey but second day defeats to winners Italy and Rep OI put the team well out of contention.
Congratulations to our hosts, France who put on a tremendous tournament and also the various club sides for providing the players.
