WILL SMITH was guest of honour at the Starlite Foundation Gala dinner and auction, hosted by Antonio Banderas and Sandra García-Sanjuán in Marbella on Sunday August 4. The Hollywood actor flew in to Malaga at the weekend to su-
pport the star-studied charity event at the Starlite venue in Nagueles, invited as guest of honour in recognition of his long history in raising funds for charitable causes.
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On the red carpet at the Starlite Gala 2024.
From front page
15th Gala event
This 15th year of the gala event in aid of the Starlite Foundation was presented as a Mexican-themed party with music and fine cuisine reflecting this and a red carpet full of Spanish glitterati including comedian Carlos Latre as MC. Antonio Banderas said “I am very happy with the participation this year, which is dedicated to a country that I love.”
The money raising for the Starlite Foundation gala dinner began with an auction of undisclosed donated items such as works of art and experiences.
Will Smith comically played the role of auctioneer emulating the almost incomprehensible rapid-fire number calling in American auctioneer tradition, and as well with a valiant effort to use his best Spanish fast.
Antonio Banderas, whose birthday was also being celebrated that night, gifted Smith with a Spanish guitar. “I can’t play guitar but I’m an actor, so I can look good holding it,” said Smith.
Banderas, for his part, explained to the celebrity audience his 15 years participating in the Starlite Foundation gala dinner by saying there are now four charitable causes that benefit from the gala dinner.
The charity Lágrimas y Favores Foundation which, among other things, helps students in Malaga with post-graduate grants; the palliative care cancer charity Cudeca; the Corinto Foundation which helps impoverished families in Malaga; and Banderas’ own non-profit that raises money for sponsoring theatrical productions for upand-coming actors and theatre specialists.
Cautious hope for water
Danger of water shortages still present.
PLEASE note that due to the national holiday on Thursday August 15, deliveries of next week’s newspaper (Edition 2041) will now take place on Friday August 16.
THE Concepción reservoir is o ering some hope to the water supply for the Costa del Sol for the rest of this summer.
With a total of 33.97 cubic hectometres of water, that is to say, 59.04 per cent of its total capacity, the Concepción reservoir that supplies many of the Costa del Sol’s towns is entering August looking better than it did this time last year. Currently the healthiest looking reservoir in the province, far better than the Limonero at only 18 per cent capacity,
or the Viñuela reservoir, whose reserves barely reach 16 per cent, the Concepción is going to guarantee water supply to the Costa del Sol for the remainder of August. However, rains at the end of August and beginning of September will be essential to start a new cycle without the pressure of the previous one. While keeping ngers crossed for those long-awaited rainfalls, works continue to provide new water resources to the region with the expansion of the Marbella desalina-
tion plant and the installation of a second desalination plant, somewhere between Mijas and Torremolinos.
We are not out of the woods yet and should learn from recent drought-related disasters. Last year, 24 towns and 18 villages in the Cordoba region were left without tap water when the Sierra Boyera reservoir was o cially declared ‘dead’ due to the current drought. A dystopian scenario which could seriously damage the economy of the Costa del Sol.
More jobs for Malaga Region
NEW employment in Malaga is booming, but not just in restaurants and bars, reveals new study.
In the second quarter of this year, there were over 50,000 new jobs created, an increase never before seen in the region. But, what types of jobs? No, not just seasonal work in bars, restaurants and hotels; 31,000 were in the Service industry alone and 17,000 in Construction. The biggest areas of growth have been seen in Construction, followed by Services, and then Industry.
Currently there are some 80,000 employed in construction in the region, the highest figure since the crash of 2008. While increased employment in the Service sector on the Costa del Sol is often interpreted as just being seasonal work in tourism and leisure, under the umbrella of Services, there
have been significant rises in contracted employees in administration, the judiciary and even in new technologies.
Retail, which continues to be the biggest employer in the region, has made notable increases, while administrative jobs related to rental activities, travel agencies and tour operators are much more impressive this year than last.
The fourth sector employing the most has been in Scientific and Technical areas, such as research and development, technical testing and analysis, among others. The tech industry in the Malaga region is adding an average of 900 new employees a year, which compared to hospitality might seem small, but when you add up the satellite economy around those new jobs, the overall figure is much higher.
Spain: one of world’s happiest places
SPAIN has secured a coveted spot among the happiest and most sustainable countries in the world, according to the recently released Happy Planet Index (HPI) 2024. The index, compiled by the Berlin-based think tank Hot or Cool Institute, ranks Spain tied for seventh alongside Denmark.
The HPI takes a unique approach to national well-being, measuring how e ectively countries
provide for their citizens’ health and happiness while minimising their environmental impact. It analyses 147 countries based on three key factors: life expectancy, self-reported well-being, and carbon footprint. Countries like Spain, with its above-average life expectancy and well-being scores coupled with a below-average carbon footprint, demonstrate that living well can be
achieved in harmony with the planet.
Vanuatu, a South Paci c Island nation, takes the top spot. Interestingly, the report reveals a disconnect between high GDP and sustainable well-being. Six out of 10 countries with the highest GDP per capita score below the HPI average. This highlights the limitations of GDP as a sole indicator of national success, suggesting greater emphasis
needs to be placed on social and environmental well-being for long-term stability.
Spain’s placement in the HPI’s top 10 is a testament to its e orts in creating a healthy and content society while minimising its environmental footprint. This achievement is a motivator for other nations to prioritise sustainable development strategies that don’t compromise human well-being.
Safe retirement
WHO doesn’t dream about retiring in Spain, where climate and culture make living a luxury?
In the Balearic Islands, Spain’s safest spot, Menorca, has become the home of many foreign retirees who discovered the hidden gem.
A recent study revealed that Menorca has the lowest crime rate in Spain’s provinces with just 388 crimes reported per 100,000 people annually.
Menorca’s tranquil atmosphere is also due to its small population of around 90,000 inhabitants.
Today, Menorca is rather a ordable when compared with other Spanish municipalities. As coastal and urban areas are the most popular, housing prices range from €1,100 to €2,000 per month.
Menorca’s climate is naturally varied, hence every season and every month will come with changes, bringing balance into your life.
With regular Spanish festivities, charming villages, beaches and activities including horse riding, golf and sailing, there’s always something to do in Menorca.
Adapting to the local community will be simple, for, Menorca’s population is very international, with its largest foreign community being the British, followed by the French.
The O ce of National Statistics recently revealed that a total of 284,988 British citizens are now living in Spain with just under 40 per cent being retired. The reason for such large numbers is the complete balance of the Spanish lifestyle; where people live for experiences and see every day as a celebration.
Euro Weekly News readers what makes them happiest about living in Spain:
Val Walker said “The weather! And the people are friendly and helpful!”
Sanver Kanidinc stated she wishes she had made the move sooner and what makes her happy is - “The quality of life, and the cost of living compared with the US.”
Melissa Baker particularly enjoys the culture and the sense of community. She says - “I love being
in Spain. The festivals, the weather and the people are amazing. The UK is drab and miserable. There are some beautiful places in England, but the weather spoils everything. Spain is an outdoor life.”
Lesley Ann Dunton loves living in Spain for the climate, food and people but points out that there are some negatives - “With every country there’s downsides. Spain sometimes could teach a masterclass in bureaucracy.”
Adda Macchich agrees there are frustrations - “The weather is great. Otherwise, a lot of things are a nuisance.”
Sandra Lambe feels there are many good reasons to live in Spain - “The weather and cost of living. No huge heating bills, no huge rates. No huge road tax or food bills. People are happier when they can go out and wander in the warmth.”
publishes more content both online at euroweeklynews.
Spain reaches top 10 in a poll by the Happy Planet index.
Menorca.
Credit: Kaj, Schmidt, Flickr
MiColchón opens store in Ronda
THE opening of the new MiColchón store in Ronda turned into an event that went way beyond expectations.
Over 200 people queued to enter the store from early in the morning, the first of which arrived at 6am.
As part of their opening party, MiColchón were giving away 50 free mattresses to the first visitors to the store. Needless to say, all 50 free mattresses were gone in five minutes.
However, the surprises did not stop there.
Facing the enormous
amount of people who had decided to visit the store that morning, MiColchón decided to give away 100 free pillows to
those who hadn’t managed to get a mattress, making sure that no one left empty-handed.
Rest in peace, Michael Weeks
IT is with the deepest of sadness that we must announce the passing of a much-loved member of our English-speaking community on the Costa del Sol, Michael Weeks. His wife Barbie posted on August 6 that he had passed away.
and relaxation, such as pillows and headboards, all from the best brands including Tempur, Flex, Relax, Nessen, Nightland, Sealy, Hukla, and Dorwin.
The shop, located at Calle Genal, 28, has strengthened the presence of MiColchón in Malaga Province, consolidating its position as a point of reference in the highest quality products for relaxation.
The offer includes a wide range of mattresses, armchairs, sofa beds, armchairs, and other furniture for rest
Those attending the opening were not only able to enjoy the gifts, but also exclusive discounts and personalised advice from MiColchón’s expert ‘Mattressologists.’
For more details on products and current offers visit micolchon. com.
Barbie posted on social media ‘With a heavy heart I have to tell you I lost the love of my life at 7.30 this morning. His body finally let go. So brave he was. I have my Mimi and Fiona with me. I’m devastated. Glad Michael has no more pain and suffering. What will I do without him? Thank you all who sent lovely messages yesterday. He appreciated them all.’
Michael and Barbie Weeks, together.
New Mijas scooter rules
NEW rules, and new fines, affecting electric scooters and bicycles have just been approved by Mijas Council. It was agreed in a plenary session that the use of electric scooters on pavements and in pedestrian areas will be banned, as will riding under the influence of alcohol, helmets must be worn, the use of telephones while riding scooters or other similar electric vehicles will incur a fine. In addition, the minimum age for riding an electric scooter will be 15. Both scooters and bicycles will be banned from use in any area shared with pedestrians, such as the back streets of Mijas Pueblo, where there is not at least a mandatory space of one metre between rider and pedestrian or a straight run of at least five metres, that is to say, around street corners in the narrow streets of the white village. Bikes and scooters will have to use cycle lanes
where they are available and if not, the road.
The updated rules clarify certain actions on a scale from minor to very serious. Riding an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol will fetch a hefty €500 fine, while using a mobile phone or any other device that can distract the rider, or riding on the pavement, will be considered ‘serious’ and carries a €200 fine, while not respecting the established safe distance in streets which are shared with pedestrians will be dealt with a €50 fine.
Check your change - La Cala
LOCAL popular entertainer and active resident in the Cala Mijas community, John Sharples, is alerting everyone to something that might leave you out of pocket.
Be careful when checking your change because John has noticed an increasing presence of the one Turkish Lira turning up mistaken for a two Euro coin.
He says he has been given the Turkish coins in his change three times in the space of a week.
The coins are easily confused if you are in a hurry as they appear at rst glance to be Euros, but are only really worth 27 cents.
If you happen to become lumbered with Turkish coins, or any other unwanted coinage or notes from far o lands, don’t forget that there is a good home for them.
As reported recently by the Euro Weekly News, Alan Boardman has come up with a genius solution to foreign coin clutter with his ‘Currency for Cudeca’ campaign.
Check the list below to see where to donate those pesky Turkish Lira and other unusable notes and coins and make a di erence.
• Fuengirola: Clarky’s Bar, BadAss Bistro, Walkers Chippy, Caribbean Mermaid & Lock Stock and Wok.
• Mijas: Mijas Magic, Lemon Tree Café, Bodeguita El Tajo, La Sierra Restaurante, Mango Café
• La Cala: Snack Attack & Casbah Live
Similar to Euros, the Turkish Lira is worth a lot less.
Using a mobile device when riding an electric scooter could fetch a €200 fine.
Image:
Norma Mortenson, Pexels
Anti-bullfight protests planned
CONFUSION reigns in Marbella as there is a very whispered reopening of the municipal bullring to bullfights, the first in nine years.
Despite the findings of a public survey carried out by pollsters Electomania in May of this year in which 44.8 per cent of Spaniards wanted rid of bullfighting. 29.9 per cent voted ‘sí’ to it, and 25.3 per cent remained indifferent, the barely publicised bulls event is going ahead.
Many people are less than satisfied with this seemingly stealthy reintroduction of bulls into Marbella society and protests are planned to take place at the gates of the bullring this coming Friday and Saturday evenings.
Only last weekend scores of protesters made headlines marching noisily through the centre of Malaga voicing their di-
sapproval of the killing of bulls for entertainment. PACMA, the pro-animal rights political party, organised the march and have vowed to return this weekend to Marbella to make some noise. As will members of AIMS (Animals in Marbella Sanctuary) who can be contacted via their website aimsanctuary.org.
Other residents who have recently been shocked to discover that the events are taking place at the bullring in Marbella, are already organising a demonstration to voice their opposition on Friday, August 9 and Saturday 10 and are urging anyone who opposes bullfighting to join them.
The peaceful protests will take place from 8.30pm at the bullring in Marbella Av. Reina Victoria on Friday and Saturday 9 and 10.
Speed cameras on mountain road
NEW speed cameras will be installed on one of the most dangerous stretches of road in the Guardalhorce Valley.
The A355 which joins Cartama and Marbella, passing by Coin, is an accident blackspot where 10 people lost their lives last year in traffic accidents. It is said that the cameras will be positioned on the stretch linking Marbella and Ojen with Coin.
The cameras will be an extra element to the other recently added feature of a thick red painted line separating the two directions, reminding drivers that on certain stretches of the road no overtaking is permitted at all.
Specifically, the two speed cameras on the A355 will be positioned approximately one kilo-
metre from La Cañada and the other further up the mountain approximately four kilometres from the shopping centre.
The road was opened in 2014 with an expected average of 7,000 vehicles per day and is already reaching almost 20,000 per day, including a large number of heavy goods vehicles.
The accident rate on
this road has been so high that locals now refer to it as ‘The Road of Death’ following 10 people losing their lives there last year, especially on the stretch that reaches up four kilometres from Marbella. It is essentially a mountain road that rises high above the village of Ojen with twists and curves that can catch some drivers by surprise.
AIMS member protesting bullfights Marbella in June.
Warning of speed cameras ahead on A355 near Marbella.
Retirement in Mijas
WITH its lower cost of living, safety, better public transport and natural beauty, the south coast of Spain is making for a popular retirement destination for Americans.
The Costa del Sol is one of the best places for US Americans to retire to according to the latest rankings by Forbes magazine. The business and finance journal specifically names Mijas as a near perfect location for US retirees citing the comparatively lower cost of living compared to the US and other places on their ranking, the high-quality and economical healthcare, and the relative ease with which visas can be obtained.
Forbes notes how beautiful Spain is away from the big cities, and the fact that Spain doesn’t tax retired expat
government workers, and a tax treaty between the US and Spain eliminates many double taxation issues. They also recommend Bilbao, Alicante and the Costa del Azahar.
The ranking comes from an extensive study of locations around the world, but highlights Mijas in particular quoting a Californian who decided to retire to Mijas saying that the cost of living is around one-third of that of living in Los Angeles.
Spain is rapidly becoming one of the most popular destinations for US citizens looking to change their surroundings and retire in the lower-cost safety. Let’s just hope the citizens of Mijas continue being so welcoming given that of its 80,000 population, 25,000 are already foreigners.
Benalmadena blackout chaos
MAYOR of Benalmadena, Juan Antonio Lara, has complained to energy company Endesa over a frequent problem with the town’s electricity supply. A number of blackouts have affected neighbourhoods in Benalmadena leaving shops, businesses and homes in the dark for hours at a time.
Last weekend was a disaster for many businesses which felt helpless right at the start of the busiest period of the year, and in the case of restaurants, just at time when they were about to serve fully booked terraces.
The main areas with electricity supply issues have been concentrated around Avenida de la Constitución in the centre of Arroyo de la Miel and on Avenida de las Palmeras. This is not a new
Power cuts continue in Benalmadena.
problem as businesses complain of multiple occasions over the years with the same power cuts bringing their businesses to a halt.
Last year similar power outages occurred in the Avenida de las Palmeras area with a situation that lasted for 20 days, seriously damaging the businesses of shops, bars and restaurants. Endesa promised to carry out the ne-
cessary works to remedy the issue, but the same has happened again this year. In an official communication, the electricity company has informed the town hall that there will be scheduled cuts between 5am and 8am in Avenida de las Palmeras while they reroute the power supply from the saturated transformer and install and connect new circuits.
Mijas, top recommendation for American retirees by Forbes.
Credit: Adrianna CA, Pexels
Photo credit: Pixabay
Heat-related deaths in Malaga
MÁLAGA is the second province in Spain to suffer the most deaths caused by extreme summer heat. Forty-two deaths were revealed by a recent study in Malaga to have been attributable to the heat between June and July of this year, only surpassed by Madrid. Scientists in Malaga warn that the average temperature may rise by 2ºC in August with
ring temperatures of July last year, Malaga is experiencing one of its hottest summers on record, and it is taking its toll on the well-being of people in the region, not least in sleep patterns which are disturbed significantly when nighttime temperatures remain at 34º.
The cause of death in these situations is not recorded as being directly due to the heat, but the temperature plays a key role in other conditions that wouldn’t have been so severe were the temperatures lower, such as heart problems and respiratory illnesses in which intense heat can be an aggravating
Experts warn to take precautions, especially those at greater risk, including the elderly, pregnant women, or those with certain pathologies. Diseases that can be worsened by extreme temperatures include heart-related illnesses, kidney disorders, obesity, those who suffer from hypertension, cancer, dementia and as well those addicted to alcohol or drugs.
Spain is key destination
THE British tour company Jet2holidays announced its goal to strengthen its leadership in Costa del Sol; one of the most popular locations for British tourists in Spain.
Jet2holidays’ CEO Steve Heapy shared the company’s aims at an event in collaboration with World2Meet at the Estival Torrequebrada Hotel in Malaga.
The CEO spoke before more than 100 key figures in the hotel industry, stating; “Jet.2com and Jet2holidays want to continue to expand our operations in Spain, a key destination in our strategic development for the coming years and where we have an excellent relationship with hotel professionals.”
The CEO of W2M, Gabriel Subias responded; “At W2M we are firmly committed to accompanying Jet2holidays,
the number one package tour operator in the UK, in its development, making available our extensive experience in destination services, which is fully aligned with Jet2holidays’ strategy.”
Jet2holidays’ CEO shared the latest news; “We are excited about the opening of new airport bases in Liverpool and Bournemouth, allowing us to reach a total of 75 per cent of the population within a 90-minute drive of each of our bases.”
With such developments, the Costa del Sol region can expect to greet even more British tourists. The president of the Malaga Provincial Council and Costa del Sol Tourism, Francisco Salado, recently revealed that 821,907 tourists from the UK came to Costa del Sol between January and August 2023.
Jet2holidays flying over Spain.
Figures show that heat-related mortality is second highest in country.
Security this summer is more important than ever - helpful tips from Age Concern
PICK-POCKETS and thieves
are by nature opportunists
- so please DON’T give them the opportunity
Personal Security
Try to avoid wearing ‘expensive’ jewellery including watches. Don’t take a lot of cash with you or use an ATM on your night out.
costs at €1.50. If your windows are open but you have ‘rejas’ ensure that NO valuables are in sight
New airport entrance
Guys, if you use a ‘man bag’ make sure that the bag is turned towards you
Ladies, never ever put your handbag on the back of a chair or on the floor.
Be extra vigilant when queuing at the supermarket check-out, ATM, or waiting for a bus/taxi.
Property Security
Think about using a security alarm. A low deposit with daily
Use a length of wood to wedge patio doors or a locking bolt with a key which secures the two sides together. Or, aluminium anti-theft patio shutters which can’t be jacked.
Car Security
Be wary of individuals trying to flag you down when driving. Call the police.
Ensure that all goods are kept in the boot NOT on the back seat and be wary of people asking you for directions. Their intention is to distract you whilst their accomplice steals your valuables.
If you have more tips please contact our Helpline any weekday from 106.00pm on 689 355 198 or email us at info@ageconcernmarbella.com.
A NORTHERN access to Malaga airport, in the works since 2006, is to be finally given the go-ahead. The project to complete a motorway entrance from the north into the airport with a large roundabout linking Alhaurin de la Torre and Churriana, absorbing much of the traffic caused by 22 million passengers a year. The planned change, which had been awaiting an environmental impact study, hopes to take some 49 per cent of vehicles entering the airport, and another 52 per cent from exiting the airport and eliminate much of the heavy traffic that passes through the back road in the village of El Peñon.
While Malaga Council needs to give the final rubber stamp, considering last week’s rapid approval for the development of a new luxury marina at Malaga port, authorisation for the new access to the airport is expected to be swift. The planned roundabout will be designed in part to separate cars and heavy goods vehicles exiting the A7 as well as give access to new urban developments of Malaga where there are planned to be up to 5,000 new homes. The environmental impact assessment reviewed all possible effects during the construction and operation in areas such as air quality, fauna and hydrogeology.
Malaga airport finally to get northern entrance.
Credit: Javier Bravo Muñoz, Wikipedia
More ‘smart’ crossings
ROAD safety in Marbella is being reinforced with the installation of nine new state-of-the-art smart pedestrian crossings.
The main focus of the works is on Virgen del Rocío Avenue in San Pedro Alcantara, a main bypass where crossing the road safely competes with traffic flow issues in this important street with a health centre and schools.
The technology, costing €80,000 and with a deadline of one month to install, works with an LED lighting system, so that when a pedestrian approaches the road to cross the street, the sensors detect them and turn lights on to warn approaching cars, allowing drivers more time to spot the people and stop their cars.
It’s also said to be a good ally to the visually impaired.
The standard street li-
ghting in this stretch of road was considered insufficient. Marbella Council is hoping to extend the projects to more streets with plans to install these smart crossings in Av. Príncipe de Asturias and Av. Jorge Guillén in 2025.
In San Pedro Alcántara, another 11 were recent-
ly installed on the boulevard to improve road safety in the area, which was reinforced with the renewal of the horizontal, LED vertical signs.
In 2023, the Malaga region saw an increase in road fatalities to 38, compared with 32 the year before.
Fuengirola’s hard line
FUENGIROLA Council is boosting its pest control work as a response to the heatwave following a flurry of calls from local residents complaining of an increase in the number of cockroaches in the streets.
Javier García Lara, councillor for Health said in a press conference “With the increase in temperatures, it is more common to find the presence of cockroaches in the municipal sewage system.”
He went on to say that every call from residents received has lead to pest control specialists being sent to each street in question and pesticide being applied to the drainage systems. A massive pro
ins was carried out in May and June of this year, and now the council are simply boosting the amount in key areas where local residents have spotted the annoying bugs.
The product used in a biocidal chemical approved by the EU, sprayed directly into the drains. Once applied, the manhole covers are sealed to prevent bugs from escaping.
The high temperatures cause many more cockroaches than at other times of year. Concluding, the councillor for Health reminded residents that ‘if you detect the presence of cockroaches in any public space, you can call the Health telephone number 951 915 197’.
Illuminated smart crossings installed in Marbella.
Specialists from Fuengirola Council getting rid of cockroaches.
Third jet ski fatality in a year
A THIRD fatal accident in a year involving a jet ski befell the Costa del Sol recently when a seven-yearold boy was killed when the jet ski he was riding on hit a wave and turned over.
The tragic accident occurred on Thursday August 1 near the Pinillo beach of Marbella. He was riding with an adult at the time, but details of the driver of the jet ski have not been released. The child was already in cardiorespiratory arrest and doctors were unable to revive him.
Malaga. The Guardia Civil continue their investigations into the incident to establish if anyone else was involved.
In August last year, a 32-yearold Frenchman died on the beach of Fuengirola when he came off his jet ski. The victim showed signs of drowning.
Fighting for pools
This was the third fatality on the Costa del Sol in the space of a year involving a jet ski. On July 17 2023, a 32-year-old woman died when she fell from a jet ski close to El Palo in
In 2022, Malaga Local Police, in coordination with the Maritime Service of the Guardia Civil, launched a campaign to control possible negligence and fine jet ski users and other recreational boats for misuse with the aim of protecting users and bathers. Almost 700 people a year are killed in jet ski accidents around the world and over 2,700 injured.
OWNERS of 1,750 Benalmadena apartments are on the verge of losing their swimming pools and garages and are ghting in court to keep them. Four communities of property owners in the Gamonal area have been ghting the construction company So co for years because the heirs to the company claim the land is theirs. In the 1960s, the So co Group had one goal: to build, sell and rent apartments on the booming Costa del Sol. This was the golden days of construction on the coast
and everyone, foreigners included, wanted an apartment overlooking the Mediterranean. So co went the way of many construction companies and eventually went bankrupt in one the of many construction scandals the Costa del Sol has su ered over the years.
Half a century had passed when, in 2015, the residents of these four blocks of ats in Gamonal received o cial noti cation from the heirs to So co informing them that they would be taking back the land on where the swim-
ming pools and garages were situated, citing documentation that demonstrated that area of the plot still belonged to So co and was never included in the original deeds.
A lengthy legal battle ensued, which has only brought even more grief to the residents. The Provincial Court ruled in favour of the heirs and now the case is going to the Supreme Court where the residents hope to have a nal chance to save the land. The neighbours associations for the four buildings have vowed to ght to the end.
Land ownership in dispute that residents could lose.
Third jet ski fatality in 12 months on Costa del Sol.
Credit: George Sultan, Pexels Credit: Neighbours association Facebook
INTERVIEW
Speaking European
Sjoerd Nuij (The Singing Dutchman)
“I moved to live,” said Sjoerd about his decision to leave the Netherlands for a life in Spain.
AFTER quitting his job and selling his house, Sjoerd moved to El Campello with his wife and children three years ago. He shared that in Spain they are finally able to “live life” to its fullest.
“I used to work excessively,” Sjoerd said; “I didn’t en joy that part of my life at all.” When living through the Covid-19 crisis in the Netherlands however, he realised that almost all work can be done remotely. Now, living in Spain, he feels like his life is “one big holiday.”
In Spain, Sjoerd works remotely, often from home and gets to spend more time with his family. He also discove-
red a new passion, after singing in front of a live audience at an open-mic event. Sjoerd was used to performing as a drummer but hadn’t realised that people liked his voice. So he decided to start build up a career as The Singing Dutchman. Now, it is an essential part of his life.
Sjoerd highlighted that even with English and Dutch languages alone, he’s been able to make tons of friends as there is a vast amount of expats in the area. He is currently learning Spanish with Duolingo and is pretty optimistic about the future; “We plan to spend the rest of our lives here.”
City with giants
REMEMBER
the feeling of being a little kid and looking up at the world in wonder? That’s what it’s like to walk down the streets of Toulouse when witnessing the La Machine spectacle.
The French theatre company La Machine collaborate with technicians and designers to create majestic mechanical creatures and exhibit them by taking theatre to the city streets.
La Machine chooses special dates throughout the year to release their creatures into the city, recreating ancient mythical scenes or letting the robots roam the streets freely.
Delaroziere expressed his ambition behind the project; “These giants revive our childhood eyes; we lived in a world of giants. That was a time of life when we were more open to emotions; we took everything in,” highlighted Delaroziere.
The 12-metre-high me-
chanical spider took two years to produce by a team of 60 people in France, while the robotic minotaur, more than 14 metres high only moves with the assistance of 17 operators. The mythological half-man, half-bull creature is partly electric and partly combustion, made of unpainted lime tree wood and metal. The creature is construc-
ted to appear real; even making the sound of breathing as it moves.
Toulouse’s mayor, JeanLuc Moudenc remembers the launch of the unique creatures in 2018, as 900,000 people gathered in curiosity to the city centre; “It was a magical and extraordinary moment, thousands of Toulouse residents were there.”
Gaza to Spain
FIFTEEN children from Gaza arrived in Madrid with 27 of their immediate relatives, to be treated at hospitals across Spain.
Spain’s President Pedro Sanchez stated on X that the children would receive “safe treatment.”
The president emphasised that they will be given “what every child deserves, wherever they were born: a healthy and hopeful childhood.”
The Spanish newspaper, El Pais , reported that 13 of the patients have serious trauma, while one is a cancer patient and another has a chronic heart disease. Among the children are a threeyear-old suffering from head trauma, a 13-yearold who needs his limbs rebuilt and a 10-yearold with multiple facial and eye wounds. Several children were also reported to be brought in
Children from Gaza received in Spain.
with severe burns.
The WHO’s director-general, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated: “We encourage other countries who have the capacity and medical facilities to welcome people who, through no fault of their own, are caught in the grips of this war.”
Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Romania and Slovakia have also offered medical evacuations and treatment. Belgium, Italy and Norway were subsequently also expected to follow Spain’s example, stated the PCRF.
Sjoerd Nuij.
Credit: Sjoerd Nuij
La Machine’s robotic giant walking the streets.
Path of Love
THE most romantic path in the world, Italy’s ‘Path of Love’ is reopening on August 9 after a 12-year closure, caused by a damaged walkway which injured four Australian tourists in 2012.
The 1km-long path encapsulates the beauty of the ve villages that make up the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site, unique for its timeless charm and romantic, coastal atmosphere.
The path was built at the beginning of the 20th century, during the modernisation of the railway line between Genoa and La Spezia.
What was initially a route for railroad workers who needed a way to get between Riomaggiore and Manarola,
became a secret lovers’ spot, which Romeo and Juliet wished they had lived to witness. After a journalist reported the words Via dell’Amore were written with chalk on the door of what was once a gunpowder warehouse, the mayor renamed the pathway and it has since been the place of love confessions, rst dates and marriage proposals.
After 12 years of longing for the iconic path and a €22 million investment, the restoration project has nally nished with a new pathway made of steel mesh and 8,800 new plants. The ‘Path of Love’ can now be walked by locals from 8am until 7pm and by tourists through onehour time slot bookings for €15.
Heir’s missing millions
NICOLAS PUECH holds the largest single stake in Hermes, the family-owned business that makes the world’s most-coveted handbags and luxury goods.
The 81-year-old, who has neither wife nor children, announced in 2023 that he intended to adopt his former gardener, identi ed by some media outlets as Morocco-born Abderrazzack Jadil Butrak.
Puech wanted to leave Butrak - who has a Spanish wife and two children - half of his €12 million fortune after the family looked after him du-
ring the Covid pandemic.
First he needed to liquidate his six million Hermes shares, but where they?
According to his lawyers, Puech no longer owns them. Instead, he had lost €12 billion and was the victim of a ‘huge fraud’ after his nancial adviser Eric Freymond had mismanaged his a airs for 20 years,
Meanwhile, a Geneva appeals court upheld the Public Prosecutor who found no indications of wrongdoing on Freymond’s part.
“The ‘huge fraud’ was undetectable to common mor-
tals,” the court pronounced. Puech’s accusations “lacked clarity,” the tribunal continued, as he had allowed Freymond to manage his growing wealth and his “blind trust” did not imply that the adviser had acted dishonestly.
The whereabouts of the shares remains a mystery.
“In my view, the shares could either have been bought back by the company or sold to someone else,” Fabian Teichmann, from the Swiss law rm Teichmann International told the Telegraph.
Italy’s Path of Love set to reopen.
Credit: Cliffano Subagio, Flicker
FAMOUS WORLDWIDE: An Hermes store in Las Vegas.
Photo credit: Flickr/Michael Gray
Learning Spanish while living in Spain is an invaluable experience that enhances your daily life.
plex are Spanish. My bar is Spanish non-English-speaking staff and my supermarket is Spanish!”
FIRSTLY, it’s the key to unlocking a deeper cultural connection. By speaking Spanish, you’ll gain a richer understanding of local customs, humour, and nuances that remain hidden to non-speakers. Secondly, practicalities are simplified. From navigating bureaucracy to interacting with locals, Spanish is essential for everyday tasks. Thirdly, it opens doors to new friendships and opportunities. Spaniards appreciate the effort to learn their language and are often more welcoming to those who can communicate in Spanish.
James William Langford highlights the importance of the Spanish language - “I strongly believe that all ‘Americans’ (estadounidenses) should learn Spanish, as it is the most spoken language in the Americas, and we need to communicate with our brothers and sisters south of the border. Spanish is now a required subject in Brazil. Why not in the US, too?”
Finally, it boosts your cognitive abilities. Learning a new language improves memory, problem-solving, and multitasking skills!
We asked Euro Weekly News readers if they use Spanish every day:
Susan Wallac e said - “Yes, try to every day but not difficult conversations often just ‘welcomes’.”
Chris McGovern is also trying to use Spanish and improve - “I’m not very good with Spanish but I do try every time I go out.”
Marie Cafolla uses Spanish to connect with her community - “Of course, it’s not perfect but my Spanish neighbours understand me.”
Micky Moses Jones says - “I’ve got no choice. Most folks in my com -
Speaking more than one language can become confusing, as Karen Poland points out, “I use Spanish, including when I visit the UK as there are words that just automatically appear… like ‘agua sin gas’”
Judith Dominique Wolfenegg agrees - “I am originally from Austria and when I talk to my mum in Vienna I always use words like ‘vale’, ‘claro que si’, ‘madre mía’ etc.”
In conclusion, it seems that almost all international residents are very keen to speak Spanish. To improve and enrich your experience in Spain, check out local language classes, meet-up groups, and language apps. Watch Spanish TV and find the courage to strike up conversations with the neighbours!
Goat plague Holiday denied
Credit: Shutterstock
Greek officials have banned the movement of sheep and goats to prevent the ‘goat plague’.
GREECE has recently banned the transportation of sheep and goats across the country in an attempt to contain a highly contagious infection, the ‘goat plague’.
The agriculture ministry of Greece declared, “The movement of sheep and goats for breeding, fattening and slaughter is banned throughout Greece.”
First detected on July 11, in Thessaly, central Greece, this highly contagious virus, peste de petits ruminants (PPR), nicknamed the goat plague, quickly spread further south in Corinth and even to its neighbour Romania.
The virus can kill between 80 per cent to 100 per cent of infected animals, however, does not affect humans.
The rapid spread prompted authorities to cull more than 55,000 sheep and goats in response, as well as impo-
se restrictions nationwide, including a ban on moving sheep and goats from their farms.
This virus is a significant threat to Greece’s domestic livestock industry and the country’s economy, preventing the production of Greece’s many popu lar international exports.
Thessaly also suffered from devas tating floods, storm Daniel, last year, which dealt “a huge blow to livestock and agricultural production not only for the region but also for the whole country,” according to Unicef.
In response, on July 19 and 26, the EU executive adopted urgent procedu res for Greece and Romania, aiming to restrict the movement of susceptible commodities to ensure that safe trade can continue while maintaining the EU’s sanitary standards.
AS British families prepare for their dream holidays in the EU, hundreds of people arrive at the airport only to find that their passports have expired.
Travel expert Simon Calder noted that as many as “200 people a day” were being denied from flying due to unknowingly carrying expired pass
ber 2018, the UK Passport Office would transfer any existing validity on your current passport over to your new passport when it was renewed. After Brexit, the existing validity will no longer be counted when travelling to the EU’s Schengen Zone.
To avoid a ruined holiday, make sure that your
the day you plan to return.
The Head of Commercial and Travel expert at Travel Republic, Gemma Brown advised; “The likelihood is that travel insurance providers would not cover any costs associated with expired passports. Our advice would be to ensure that your passport is within the 10-year issue date
British passports
Credit: Mikhail David, Flickr
Sail away
FRANCE’S three-masted Belem, built in 1896 and a former merchant ship but now a training vessel, recently visited Ireland, docking at several ports. “It was a privilege to sail the iconic vessel in Irish waters and share her beauty with the Irish people,” the Belem’s captain Aymeric Gibet told the RTE broadcaster.
Fish mystery
APPROXIMATELY 2,000 salmon, trout, lamprey and other fish were found dead on a three-kilometre stretch of the Aughrim River in County Wicklow on July 28. Inland Fisheries Ireland officials took samples of the fish and the water, but were still exploring the source of the probable pollution, they said.
EURO PRESS
PORTUGAL
Far from home
A WALLABY spotted in Almada was finally taken to safety by the area’s Animal Ombudsman’s team, and Civil Protection. The animal, which had several injuries and was visibly dehydrated is being nursed back to health while the local authorities try to discover where it came from and who it belonged to.
EXHAUSTED: Almada’s wandering wallaby now in good hands.
Growing up
IRELAND FINLAND NORWAY SWEDEN
Be prepared
BEFORE the start of the Paris Olympics, the Ministry of Justice began freeing up space in the Paris region’s prisons in order to cope with a possible influx of criminals arrested during the Games. This was not easy, the Ministry said, with an overall 138 per cent occupancy rate and 153 per cent for remand prisons.
About-face
PARIS altered its stance on Morocco and the Western Sahara when President Emmanuel Macron stated in a letter to Mohammed VI that the region’s future “falls within the context of Moroccan sovereignty.” While smoothing relations with Morocco, this will cause tensions with neighbouring Algeria, analysts predicted.
ITALY
Not so fast
TRENITALIA, Italy’s principal rail operator, and Italo announced that high-speed services would be considerably slower usual than throughout August while maintenance work is carried out on upgrading the network. The Turin-Milan-Venice, Milan-Bologna and Rome-Florence lines are expected to be the most-affected.
Fight back
IN a cleanup of fight clubs and intimidating incidents, police, carabinieri and local authorities in Trieste identified 500 teenagers, including girls, who organised fights in exchange for money. Fans paid to watch the combat and encourage ‘teams’ whose activities were announced on social media platforms.
Choc horror
JARS of First Price chocolate spread were recalled after one batch was found to contain traces of hazelnuts. As the label only specified ‘may contain nuts’ it was decided to withdraw all the jars while consumers allergic to hazelnuts were advised to throw the spread away or return it to the store where it was purchased.
Warmed up
SVALBARD in the Arctic Circle had warmest June since records were kept 175 years ago, with an average temperature of 6.1C degrees, 2.5C degrees above normal. “The backdrop is climate change, which affects the north earlier and more strongly than areas further south,” Norway’s Meteorological Institute explained.
DENMARK
All mapped out
COPENHAGEN police warned the public not to be taken in by the latest scam, where a lost-looking tourist carrying a map asks a passerby for directions. This is no more than a diversion, police said, as an accomplice will skilfully lift their mark’s wallet, phone or other valuables while they helpfully give directions.
Rich pickings
NOVO NORDISK, Europe’s most valuable company owing to its weight-loss drug, Wegovy and diabetes treatment medication Ozempic, has bought a 200-acre (81-hectare) site in Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city. Foundations are now being dug for a new production plant in the Tietgenbyen industrial district.
Credit: Providoria dos animais do Municipio de Almada
A 50-YEAR-OLD conifer would have measured 12 metres in 1950 but 16.4 metres in 1983 and 18.25 metres in 2020, a University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) study found. The differences in height and rate of growth could be the result of more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the SLU researchers concluded.
Snakes alive
A KARLSHOLMSBRUK man out walking in the forest not long after midnight in late July was astonished to come across a two-metre boa constrictor. Having some knowledge of snake handling, he was able to capture the boa and take it to Uppsala police station, who contacted Stockholm’s Skansen aquarium for advice.
GERMANY FRANCE
Not funny
VILLE TAVIO, Foreign Trade and Development minister, described the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony as a “freak show.” Talking to the Helsingin Sanomat newspaper, Tavio declared that sport should be kept separate from politics and also commented that there was no need to “pay so much attention to minorities.”
Spot check
A PASSENGER entering Finland on the Tallinn ferry on July 25 was later diagnosed with measles at the Kalasatama Health Centre on July 29. The Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) advised members of the public who might have been exposed to the disease to ensure their measles-protection vaccines were up-to-date.
Natives needed
FLOODPLAIN ecologist Mathias Scholz, explained that without floodplains and floodplain forests, floodwater flowed away too quickly and caused significant damage. Native and flood-resistant and elms and oaks were able to absorb more water but had been replaced by non-typical trees like maples, Scholz said.
Spied out
GERMANY accused China of orchestrating a 2021 cyberattack on the federal Cartography and Geodesy Agency when part of the system was compromised. Interior minister Nancy Faeser confirmed on July 31 that no further malware was found and the attacker was successfully ousted from the network.
BELGIUM NETHERLANDS
Case study
THE EU’s Court of Justice rejected an appeal from a Cameroon and said Belgium’s was justified in refusing to grant her a student’s visa. The Belgian authorities had concluded that she did not genuinely intend to study and planned to enter the country for reasons “other than the pursuit of an education.”
Sting operation
A CARRIAGE horse that reared and ran amok in Bruges was probably stung by a wasp but was soon calmed down by coachman Fre Pintelon assisted by a colleague, police announced afterwards. No one was injured in the incident and the horse was taken home in a horsebox to recuperate, Pintelon said.
On time
THE Dutch monarch, King Willem-Alexander arrived early at the Louvre for the pre-Olympics reception attended by royalty and dignitaries but waited on the red carpet for 10 minutes before he was officially greeted. A videoclip later showed him looking at his watch and remarking, “Oh I’m a little early, I’m too Dutch.”
Fewer refugees
ACCORDING to the IND immigration service’s most recent figures, fewer refugees and their families - particularly those from Iraq - arrived in the Netherlands between April and June. A total of 7,700 people applied for refugee status during the second quarter, a 14 per cent reduction on the first three months of 2024.
Do as they do
MARBELLA
BY NICOLE KING
LAST Friday I arranged to meet an English friend for an early dinner, ie 7.30pm, but at one stage I wasn’t sure Boy and I were going to make it without melting. The heat was extreme and my 20-year-old car’s air-conditioning wasn’t coping well, neither was I or my poor Pomeranian.
I knew we had to get out of the car immediately and pulled over at the first opportunity, parked and rushed us both into the shade of a building. I do appreciate that for the English this is a very acceptable time to eat, when in England, however in Spain in August, it didn’t feel like a wise decision.
Unless in a touristic area, most Spanish restaurants don’t open again for dinner until 9 o’clock at night and Spaniards typically eat dinner as from 10 to 10.30pm, when the sun has gone down. They can then enjoy a nice relaxing meal without all the sweating and rushing for air-conditioned spaces.
Eating so late sounds ludicrous for some, but the days are longer here pre-
cisely as they need to accommodate the lifestyle to suit the weather and extreme temperatures. Hence shops often close from 2pm to 5pm and the famous Spanish Siesta, not necessarily a time to sleep, but hide out from the hottest hours of the day and be rested and ready to enjoy the evening and cooler night-time air with family and friends. Trying to maintain a UK schedule when living in a hot country doesn’t make much sense, we suffer unnecessarily. The locals know the why behind the wherefore and so we’d be much better off to take their lead and do as they do.
Sunscreen on menu
FREE sunscreen dispensers are already available at 120 beaches, amusement parks, festivals and other open-air events in the Netherlands.
Now 150 bars and restaurants are serving up Factor 30 sunscreen along with their customers’ orders.
Skin cancer is currently the country’s fastest-growing type and health insurer
Zilveren Kruis has launched a campaign in partnership with a popular sun-protection brand to make sunscreen is easily available in bars and restaurants.
Probably 28 per cent of skin cancers are caused when people get sunburnt sitting on a bar or cafe terrace, as well
A LIVE bomb was discovered by an employee of a recycling plant in the Gran Canaries, at the centre in Telde.
While working, the employee, to his shock, discovered a large, unexploded anti-aircraft shell in the recycling plant. The bomb was an 88mm calibre anti-aircraft high-explosive shell with a firing capacity of 88x570. With a weight of
as in their gardens, investigators have found “Dutch people flock to outdoor cafes as soon as the rays break through the cloud,” Silveren Kruis said. It was essential to remind the public of the importance of protecting themselves while sitting outside and integrating sun safety into everyday habits and activities, a spokesperson told the media.
Zilveren Kruis has recommended a resale price of €2.99 for a 30-millilitre tube, but stressed that businesses should not make a profit from the initiative and could charge less or offer the sunscreen free of charge if they wished.
Odd find
7.6 kg and 765 grams of explosive (trilete) and 2.6 kilos of gunpowder. It was discovered live with its charge intact.
As the National Police arrived, they said an unknown person had thrown the live bomb into a recycling bin for an obscure reason; it was collected by a garbage lorry and returned to the plant for sorting. The specialised TEDAX Group of the Canary Islands Higher Police Headquarters was then notified and the recycling plant was evacuated.
The bomb disposal experts carefully examined the device and then transferred it to their group facilities, to be subsequently destroyed.
Nicole’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
MOMENTS It’s dog gone hot!!
SUN SAFETY: Protection important during everyday activities.
You can’t make it up
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
ONCE again, not quite sure where to start this week. Certainly don’t wish to enter any controversy concerning the UK heart and soul wrenching tragedy that took the lives and injured the innocent children and adults of the dance school in Southport. Safe to hope that no excuses whatsoever are accepted for this horrendous act and that true justice prevails.
Let’s just wait and see. Of course the rioting and violence that has ensued since this attack is precisely what I’ve been warning about for years, right back to where a number of readers often accused me of ‘another Leapy rant’. Mmm - all gone a bit quieter now!
One thing I will refer to is Starmer vowing to stamp out the ‘far right wing’ hooligans he says are responsible. One hundred and twenty were arrested on the first night of rioting and demonstrations. Does he actually consider the thousands of disgruntled British citizens who also
participated across the country were all far right hooligans? Somehow I think not.
Perhaps some immigration control would begin to resolve the true core of the problem. What he also failed to mention (surprise, surprise) were the riots by the Asian youths who burnt a bus, attacked police and upended cars in Leeds a few nights earlier and another mob who, on Saturday, crowded the streets of Stoke waving machetes and knives; funny that. No further mentions by the leftie media either.
The police actually did manage to arrest 20. A night in the cells and a slap on the wrist I shouldn’t wonder! Personally I don’t condone any of it. But for sure there is something glaringly out of order somewhere.
I actually see the extreme lefties of the Labour political alliance causing their party to collapse before it even gets started.
Now we come to the exchange of prisoners between Russia and the West. Amazing to see it all occur in the run up to the US presidential elections. This has to be a political conspiracy, one that I find glaringly
obvious. It gives a tremendous lift for the possible reelection of the Democratic Party.
Putin certainly doesn’t want a rival of Trump’s Republican stature in command of his most powerful opposition on earth.
He is fully aware that the Biden/ Harris opposition is utterly incompetent and no real antagonists for any future Russian aggression, (remember Afghanistan?), so he’s jumped at the chance to get some of his violent cronies back and at the same time give a lift to the popularity of a mishmash of losers he knows he can walk all over.
You really couldn’t make it up. Just a last word to the Starmer/Rayner pack of fabricators and ultimate power seekers. How come they have found it necessary to cut off the fuel allowance to British Old age pensioners and charge the over 75s for their TV licence, but can still support and finance benefits and accommodation to literally millions of foreign immigrants? Just asking.
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.
Silent revolution
AS of last summer, women in Helsinki can now enjoy the beach without wearing bikini tops if they choose.
Remarkably, the city implemented this change without making an official announcement, allowing residents to discover the update on their own.
City officials explained that this approach was chosen because there had been no significant complaints regarding toplessness on the beach. Complaints typically involved full nudity, and, as a result, bikini bottoms and swim trunks are still required on Helsinki beaches.
Nevertheless, there appears to be an unspoken aspect to this policy change, as the authorities have remained notably silent about their progressive move.
In Finland, public acts that cause distress to others may be considered ‘sexual immorality,’ though what precisely qualifies as such is not always straightforward. This issue reflects a somewhat ambiguous area in an otherwise progressive society, known for its sauna culture.
The change is linked to broader concerns of equality. Kerttu Hynni, head of the city of Helsinki’s recreation team, acknowledged that there had been previous inquiries about this matter.
In an interview with Helsingin Sanomat, Hynni referenced the period between 2019 and 2021 when feminist activists held topless flash mob events to push for the ban’s removal.
MICHELIN-star chef Stefano Catenacci presents something surprising, different, this weekend in Mijas - a pop-up restaurant event.
Starting from 7pm on Sunday, August 11 at Play, Calle el Chopo de Cosmopolis 8, Playamarina, the Swedish cuisine chef of Caos Italian restaurant, Marbella, presents a culi-
Plácido Domingo
Michelin-Star pop-up Mijas
nary event of extraordinary palatability.
Chef Stefano has been in charge of banquets and gala dinners served at Stockholm Palace, including the wedding of Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel in the summer of 2010, and the wedding of Princess Madeleine and Christopher O’Neill in 2013.
This time, the chef presents a one night only menu at Play featuring an aperitif, a taco with red tuna tartar; a beef tartar with parmesan cream,
fried capers, and sun dried tomatoes; wild mushroom ravioli, pickled onion and wild mushroom foam; followed by fried sea bass with a purée of green asparagus, potato purée in a Champagne and horseradish sauce; all finished off with a strawberry semifreddo with marinated strawberries and vanilla juice. Price per diner is €65 (drinks not included). And there will be live music from singer Natalie Lima. Bookings can be made on 669 250 725 for the event at Playamarina, Cala Mijas.
PLÁCIDO Domingo is playing the Starlite Occident Festival, Tuesday August 13 and tickets are selling fast.
On Tuesday, August 13, Starlite Occident welcomes legendary international tenor Plácido Domingo. The world-renowned multifaceted artist, Plácido Domingo, the tenor, baritone and conductor, with a repertoire including more than 150 roles from more than 4,400 performances during his extensive career over more than half a century.
He has received honorary degrees and prestigious awards all over the world, not least for his humanitarian commitment.
The World over he is known and cherished as one of the finest and most influential singing actors in the history of opera,
and as he himself explains the more he has studied, travelled and performed, the deeper his love for music has become.
Extraordinarily eclectic, during his career he has been artistic and general director, populariser of opera alongside Pavarotti and Carreras, pioneer of cross-over; winner of 12 Grammys; star of opera films directed by Zeffirelli and Rosi; promoter of new young talents; founder of the singing competition ‘Operalia’, and ambassador of the Zarzuela operetta style the World over.
On Tuesday, August 13, the Costa del Sol will have the rare opportunity to witness one of the most important voices in the history of music at the Starlite Occident Festival in Marbella.
Ticket prices begin at €99 from the Starlite website. starlitefestival.com
Best before end, Louie Louie
LOCAL Indie rock favourites, Best Before End play Louie Louie on Saturday August 10, and they are the best new thing you will hear this year.
Probably the most original, sincere thing you will hear this year is Best Before End, an upcoming four-piece from Campo de Gibraltar who mix roaring guitar with gorgeously melodious singing, funky rhythms with a lot of danceable fun.
There are elements of Noise Rock mixed with the twanging guitars of
Lush and The Wedding Present, and the 90s Camden Indie scene. Best Before End’s track ‘Needles’, which I have had on repeat since I first heard it, has revived my faith in new music.
Don’t miss Best Before End this Saturday August 10 at Louie Louie, Estepona, the best and freshest original new talent from the Costa del Sol before they become too famous. They are on stage at midnight. Tickets from the Louie Louie website.
Open every day 13:00-23:30 except Wednesday Closed & Thursday opens from 18:00
Divot Gastro Grill , open 7 days a week from 1.00pm Lunch and Dinner. Contact Number 951 566 172 For Reservation
Avda del Mediterráneo edi. Arqueros Beach, s/n Local 1A, San Pedro de Alcantara (Málaga) WhatsApp: 633 822 254 Instagram: chefbydivot Facebook: Chef by
EL COTO RESTAURANTE, located on the winding road to Ronda, celebrate this week two years since reopening under the new management of Clive Rogers and his wife Natalie.
Near Benahavis, one of the most elegant and sophisticated restaurants in the area, El Coto, with its wooden façade blending into the nature of its surrounds with stunning views of the rolling hills and mountains of southern Spain.
A warm and welcoming ambiance in a spacious building provides the utmost in romantic settings for a relaxing meal with someone special, for just hanging out with friends, or taking in the breathtaking views from the res-
taurant’s terrace with a delicious cocktail.
As well as the environment, the beautifully crafted menu is what has had diners make this a repeat experience. Curated by Head Chef and owner Clive Rogers, the menu offers a sophisticated selection of international cuisine in the form of light bites, starters, mains, and exquisite desserts for any time of day. One of the highlights on offer, the meat menu with suckling pig or a Black Angus short rib, or Chuletón with an ample selection of sauces and sides to choose from.
For a more laid back encounter, the menu also proposes versions of classic Spanish sharing dishes including Paella, Sea Bass or Padrón Peppers. And not to forget, the Raw Bar with
such delicacies as Tuna Tartar, fresh Gillardeau Oysters, and Oscietra Imperial Caviar.
The transformation Clive and his wife Natalie have made at El Coto is astounding. Originally run by a local family, Clive and his wife took over, radically renovated, and then opened their doors on August 10, 2022, offering the highest quality Mediterranean cuisine with a more modern twist. It has become known in the area for its quality, use of fresh, locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a minimalist and contemporary design that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The spacious interior features a mix of modern and traditio-
nal elements, with high ceilings, natural wood accents, and comfortable seating. The outdoor terrace offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the town, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxing meal with friends.
This weekend, Saturday, August 10, El Coto celebrates its second anniversary under its new management. We at Euro Weekly News send a huge congratulations to Clive and Natalie at El Coto and look forward to seeing their success continue to grow.
El Coto can be found on Carretera de Ronda, A-397, Km. 44, 29679 Benahavis. For bookings call 951 744 777 or via their website cotorestau rante.com.
All photos courtesy of El Coto
Fiesta festival cancels shows
FIESTA Marbella has just cancelled all its programmed concerts with the exception of Pete Tong Ibiza Classics with Jules Buckley and The Essential Orchestra.
Citing a lack of advanced ticket sales, organisers of the Fiesta festival which was due to take place from August 8 to August 11 at the old bullring in Marbella, have decided to cancel all the shows except Pete Tong. Those who have already bought tickets can get a refund from the Fiesta website, or, as the organisers are offering, an exchange for the Pete Tong Ibiza Classics night on Saturday August 10.
Sunday
The affected nights are Nancy Ajram (August 8), Blue, Chesney Hawkes and Madcon (August 8), and the Drum and Bass night (August 11). In a statement, promoters Steve Durham and Bill Blenkarn said “We are very sorry to have to announce that despite our best efforts, the Fiesta Marbella will not be able to go ahead.”
Fiesta will still keep to their commitment to the charities they pledged to support and have invited 5 NGOs along to the Pete Tong show to talk about their work.
Everyone is Welcome Everyone is Welcome
EL CIRCO ENCANTADO (the haunted Circus), a show that won’t leave your spirit behind, can be seen from now until August 25 in Torremolinos.
This frightfully funny circus show for all the family is a horror show where everyone embarks on a journey to die for to the mansion of Doña Terrorifica, a strange woman surrounded by monstrous characters with extraordinary abilities.
The pantomime-like circus tells the hilarious story of the tumultuous arrival of Paute and Capitano at the mansion and how this unsettles all of its inhabitants, who tend to look unfavourably upon outsiders. But everything changes when they discover that Lucia, an innocent girl whom
they desire for themselves, is travelling with them. El Circo Encantado is a family show, yet artistically ambitious and quirky, that invites the audience to engage with and respect the circus world. It demonstrates that with passion and perseverance, any challenge can be overcome. Guided by their beloved clowns, Paute and Capitano, this unforgettable experience is filled with comedy and entertainment for everyone.
The big tent will be in the Los Alamos beach car park and the show starts each night at 8.30pm until August 25. Ticket prices start at €14 and bookings can be made online at elcircoencantado.com up to 30 minutes before each performance, or directly at the circus two hours before each performance.
Adam Woodward
The Haunted Circus comes to Torremolinos
Credit: Pete Tong
UB40’s Ali Campbell, down but not out
AMBASSADORS of Reggae, UB40 have cancelled their August 9 concert at Marbella’s Starlite festival.
The UK band who shot to fame in the 1980s have had to pull out of their gala show in Marbella.
They cancelled half of their US tour and last week announced they would be pulling out of their gig in Vigo, Spain. It was expected that they might do the same with the Marbella Starlite Festival concert too.
Lead singer Ali Campbell has been battling an illness that affects his voice for some years, and as a result of his current condition, he is unable to fly. On their Facebook page, the band assured fans in the UK that those concerts would still go ahead.
Campbell, 64, has been jinxed by a variety of illnesses that have impeded his
singing over the years. In 2011, a bout of glandular fever followed by the news he had Epstein-Barr Virus, and again in 2023, the band had to call off dates for what was described in the press as a ‘mystery illness’.
UB40, who have been celebrating the 40th anniversary of their breakthrough album ‘The Labour of Love’ and the massive 1983 hit ‘Red Red Wine’, are going to have to postpone the rest of the celebrations until Ali recovers. From all at Euro Weekly News, we wish Ali Campbell a speedy recovery.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Tipi Tapa Restaurant celebrates 25 Years of Gastronomic Excellence
THE Tipi Tapa Restaurant, a benchmark in Mediterranean gastronomy, celebrates its 25th anniversary since its opening in 1999. With a culinary proposal that fuses tradition and modernity, Tipi Tapa has established itself as an essential destination for lovers of good food.
Located in the heart of the town, Tipi Tapa is distinguished by its commitment to quality and sustainability. Its Mediterranean cuisine is enriched with select matured meats, a specialty that has gained followers among the most demanding diners. In addition, traditional tapas, reinterpreted with modern touches, offer a unique experience that combines the best of both worlds.
The restaurant’s philosophy focuses on the use of local products, guaranteeing freshness and flavour in each dish. The local garden, one of the jewels in the crown, allows vegetables to come directly from the field to the table, pre-
serving all their nutritional and sensory properties. This commitment to local products not only ensures the highest quality, but also contributes to the sustainable development of the region.
“All our products are selected by our experts and are of the highest quality,” says Tipi Tapa’s main chef, who highlights the team’s work in the constant search for excellence. This dedication has been key to maintaining the loyalty of a clientele that, after 25 years, continues to choose Tipi Tapa as their favourite place to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.
The restaurant’s anniversary is a perfect opportunity to rediscover its iconic dishes and celebrate together a quarter of a century of flavour and tradition. Cheers to many more years of success for Tipi Tapa!
Tel: 951 311 530 / 627 635 890
www.restaurantetipitapa.com
Adam Woodward
Bizet’s ‘Boutique’ Carmen, Benahavis
Adam Woodward
BIZET’S opera Carmen adapted for a summer night in appropriately breathtaking surroundings.
Michelin Key hotel, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Benahavis is adding extra dates for its summer opera nights with Bizet’s Carmen. Performed in the outdoor amphitheatre with views of the surrounding countryside, such was the popularity of this ‘boutique’ opera that the luxury hotel has decided to add two perfor-
mances on August 8 and September 19.
This abridged version of the classic opera, on a smaller, more intimate stage than many might expect, contains all the bestknown arias and duets from Carmen in what the hotel bills as a ‘Boutique Opera’ version. The idea is to present classic operas in a new, special way and for a wider audience in an entirely suitable setting, which in itself becomes part of the theatrical scenery. In this presentation, the opera focuses on four
main roles, those of Carmen, Don José, Escamillo and Micaela, who will be accompanied by the melodies of Bizet’s work by piano. With this easily digestible adaptation of one hour 15 minutes, the drama of Bizet’s Carmen is set against the same backdrop of southern Spain that made the work so attractive to the rest of 19th century Europe.
The two shows are on August 8 and September 19 at Anantara Villa Padierna Hotel. Ticket prices range from €45 to €60.
Blue Stompers Torremolinos
CLARENCE Jazz Club Torremolinos hosts Blue Stompers Jump Review, Friday August 9, a blend of Boogie Woogie, Afro-American Blues and R&B.
The Blue Stompers Jump Review have been on the scene for a long time, a band with members from the UK, Cyprus, Finland and Spain.
The Stompers sound like Boogie Woogie, Afro-American blues, 40s New Orleans jazz and the rawest R&B of Dr Feelgood. Pablo Stylia nou (singer and harmonica) originally from Greenwich in London moved to Spain in 2002 and has played with a whole host of Blues bands along the Costa del Sol be fore helping form The Blue Stompers Jump Review.
Victor Sanchez has played with some of the best artists on the Costa del Sol and is regarded as a true inspiration to many. Mark Duus from Finland, before moving to Spain, was a regular on the Blues and Rockabilly scene playing with some of the best Finnish bands, including the famous Tomi Leino Markus.
The band are playing two gigs at the Clarence Jazz Club on August 9 at 8.30pm and 10.30pm. Ticket start at €10. Calle Danza Invisible 8, Torremolinos.
Credit: Jorge Whiskers, Facebook
Hemmingway’s favourite diner, Cala Mijas
Adam Woodward
A VISIT to La Butibamba in Cala Mijas is a step back in gastronomic history, and one that will leave you full to bursting.
Five generations of the Porras family have loyally
The Garden Bar
Open 7 days a week
served customers in this uniquely traditional roadside eatery. Throughout history, eminent customers have included King Alfonso XIII, Ernest Hemingway, Antonio Banderas and the most famous Flamenco singer of all time, Camarón de la Isla.
Having started out as a mere hut, it developed into a coaching inn, post office and the local tobacconist.
Great bar food
10.00am – 8.00pm Menu all day
Cocktails
In the early 19th century, the notorious highwayman ‘El Tempranillo’ also stopped off more than a few times at La Butibamba, to rest and recover from his adventures.
All of these famous, and infamous, customers came for one thing: the highly-valued ‘Bocadillo Butibamba’. This giant sandwich is unique, not just for its size, but down to a top-secret recipe passed down through the ge-
La Butibamba also features a stunning array of fish dishes, and seafood.
Best ham in the World
THE 9th ‘Popi’ Ham Competition will bring together 65 ham producers from all over Spain to Estepona where the promenade will be host to the 9th World Ham Competition, also known as ‘Popi’ from August 8 to 15. Sixty-five ham producers from all over Spain, are meeting at this gastronomic event, sponsored by the Provincial Council through its food quality brand ‘Sabor a Malaga’. In addition to being able to try top-quality Spanish products, cheeses and wi-
nes at low prices, visitors to the event will be able to enjoy a series of free openair concerts. The official opening will take place on Thursday August 8 at 9.30pm, and will feature a performance by Navajita Plateá.
Last year, the Popi World Ham Competition attracted more than 200,000 visitors. The contest is an excellent showcase for Andalucian and Malaga products. Last year, 69 of the most important ham producers from around Spain were present.
The man behind the competition, José María Téllez, better known as ‘Popi’, a professional ham cutter and promoter of the event, came up with the idea as an extension of ham-cutting competitions that he had previously organised. He wanted more people to learn to appreciate and enjoy this fine gastronomic treat. The event is open to everyone and while the ham on offer isn’t free, the ham cutters are selling samples at the lowest possible prices.
Rocas del Mar, Urb. El Juncal Sur, 34, km198, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga
Credit: javi_indy, Freepik
3D Classical music experience
SYMPHONY, a new immersive classical music experience is mobile and visiting Fuengirola for throughout August.
Sponsored by the Fundación La Caixa, this innovative and enriching audiovisual opportunity to experience a deconstruction of classical music pieces enabling the spectator to feel as though they were sitting among the orchestra.
Symphony is put together in two different mobile units that transform into two different 100m2 rooms. In the first room, visitors are greeted by a huge panoramic video screen which introduces the visitor and guides only using sounds. The second room is dedicated to a virtual reality experience.
This travelling project offers the opportunity
to understand, through images and music, how, from the simplicity of a piece of wood or the roughness of a piece of metal, a universe as sophisticated as that of a symphony orchestra is built. In this way, Symphony deconstructs the orchestra to show simplicity, which contrasts with the infinite range of resources it offers composers to express ideas and emotions. It offers the participant emotionally active listening: thanks to the 360º camera position changes within the orchestra, the viewer will hear and feel the music in a new
and surprising way and will experience all the different families of instruments.
The show lasts approximately 40 minutes split in two sections, beginning with the panoramic projection and continuing with the music of Mahler in an immersive 360º VR experience.
It will be open to the public until September 2 in the Plaza Estrella de los Mares in Fuengirola, from Monday to Sunday, from 11am to 2pm and from 6pm. to midnight, with 30-minute passes. Admission is free until full.
E-Biking the Marbella mountains
Adam Woodward
A FIT and healthy day out in the mountains with some fine wine at the finish. Just what we need to escape the brouhaha of the coast and fill our lungs with fresh mountain air.
NaluSur’s Electric Mountain Bike and Wine Tour is an adventure with a little bit of luxury added. On a top of the range electric mountain bike, they lead you on a climb of the mountain trails of the Sierra Blanca to reach traditional white villages, then zoom downhill to finish the tour with a good glass of wine and some tasty tapas. This wine and bike tour will amaze you with the beauty of its scenery. Their professional English-speaking guides will provide full instructions
on the use of the electric mountain bike before starting out along ancient mountain trails, and up hills you never thought possible on a bike.
Included in the price are a top of the range electric mountain bike, a helmet, a fully-qualified guide, a glass of wine, beer or soft drink, plus two tapas per person, accident and liability insurance.
The tour requires at least some level of fitness and ability to keep moving for three hours, you need to know how to ride a bike, of course. The route is not difficult, but there may be some challenging sections to pass on foot.
The price is €99 per person and it starts out from Real Club Marítimo de Marbella, Puerto Deportivo. You can make a booking on nalusur.com
Credit: Fundación La Caixa
Some of the classic and most exotic vehicles on display
Adam Woodward
AUTOBELLO, the classic car competition, returns to Marbella on Saturday August 8 with hundreds of exotic cars for you to feast your eyes on.
A real treat for petrol heads with everything from Ferraris to Aston Martins, to McClarens and Paganis, this exhibition will leave motor fans with their eyes popping out.
There will be the best cars, both current and historic, models from all over the World, all with
a level of excellence and elegance fitting of their surroundings. But not only classic cars will be on show, there will also be the fastest and best motorcycles, off-roaders, military vehicles, one-offs, and a room dedicated to fans of classic watches for everyone to marvel at.
The creme of the automotive industry will also be present showcasing their best products, both old and new. At the end of the day, the white-gloved judges will decide the best in several categories. Visitors will be received
with elegance and a special treatment with a glass of Spanish wine, as well as being able to enjoy a concert and party until midnight. Entry prices to this massive yet classic event, start at €120, but that does include a free bar.
There’s the VIP Entry, which includes dinner at the Polo Club, and a Gold Entry at €400 with Champagne and Caviar for those wishing to make this the most special of days. Tickets can be purchased from the Autobello website.
COSTA FOOD TOURS
Summer, Sangria & Seafood Paella
SUMMER on the Costa del Sol; vibrant, bustling and characterised by warm weather, festivals, and a lively atmosphere. But, apart from the parties, long days of sunshine and balmy evenings, there’s two food and drink choices that are universally popular.
So, here’s a little bit of history about them (and an alternative!)
Paella reflects the agricultural, cultural,
and social evolution of Spain. Originating from Valencia, where it began as a humble farmer’s meal, it’s now been elevated to a global culinary icon.
It reflects a rich blend of influences from civilisations such as the Romans and the Moors that have inhabited over centuries.
Traditionally made with available local ingredients such as rice, rabbit, snails, and vegetables, it was cooked over an open fire without stirring, so the prized ‘socarrat’ (the crispy bit on the bottom) can form.
Rich and flavourful, there are many variations, including Valenciana (the traditional one), seafood paella, mixed paella, and even vegetarian versions. Each region in Spain might have its own twist on this beloved dish.
However, the purists will tell you it should never include seafood, but as its popularity expanded beyond Valencia everyone added their own spin on it, and the seafood version gained popularity in coastal towns as tourism increased.
But paella is not just food, it’s a social experience, a legacy of cultural development, made for sharing and one of the best Spanish experiences you could ever have!!!
Sangria. An incredibly popular and refreshing drink that is a massive favourite with tourists. However, for the Spanish it is traditionally reserved for festive occasions.
Sangria originated in Spain and Portugal, dating back to when the Romans planted vineyards in the region. The name ‘sangria’ comes from the Spanish word ‘sangre’, meaning blood, referring to its deep red colour. Evolving over centuries, traditional sangria is made with red wine,
but modern versions include white, sparkling and even rosé sangria. But typically, it consists of red wine, chopped fruit, a sweetener (sugar or honey), a small amount of liquor (normally brandy), possibly orange juice and lemonade or soda, always served by the jug. Occasionally, spices such as cinnamon or cloves are added, especially in winter, but in summer, plenty of ice and a few sprigs of mint make it complete!
And the alternative and much more popular?
Tinto de Verano, the ‘red wine of summer’. Unlike sangria, this is an everyday refreshment in Spain, a simple mix of red wine and gaseosa (any soda of your choice), normally half and half and served with a slice of lemon or orange. Much lighter in alcohol than Sangria, it’s perfect for BBQ’s and sunny afternoons by the beach.
So eat, drink and enjoy the summer!!
Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 6.00pm
Friday Fish n Chip day from 1.00 pm
Saturday from 6.00pm
Closed Sunday
Parking – Takeaway
The weird & wonderful Capitán Bombay
at the hands of Capitán Bombay in Marbella Saturday August 10 at Premiere Club, Marbella.
Credit: capitanbombay.wixsite.com
A LOUD, jumping hilariously funny night out
To describe Capitán Bombay: a mix of Punk, Cumbia, James Brown Funk, Psychedelia, Rap, they defy categorisation. A big, noisy party is I su-
ppose what they are. Capitan Bombay are on tour of Spain and drop off at the Premier Club to cause their usual chaos.
The themes in their songs are equally headscratching, such as Noctámbulas about a vampire and an astronaut, or The
Funky Wall, a mashup between Pink Floyd and Charly García. The only guarantee is a night of rhythmic cacophonic fun.
Capitán Bombay play the Premier Club, Marbella on Saturday August 10 at 11pm. Entrance is free at the Premier Club.
Traditional Fish & Chips, Pies & Much More,
Jardin Botanico, La Cala de Mijas
In Or Take Away
Adam Woodward
ADVERTORIAL FEATURE
Discover the Charm of NICOLAS Wine Shop in Marbella
MARBELLA’S wine enthusiasts have a new haven: NICOLAS Wine Shop, now with three vibrant locations to serve you. The flagship store is beautifully situated in Guadalmina, with additional shops in Elviria Centro Comercial and the latest addition in Aloha. Each store is open Monday to Saturday from 11.00am to 8.00pm, offering a delightful experience for wine lovers of all tastes and preferences.
At NICOLAS, the staff are not just salespeople; they are passionate wine experts eager to guide you through their extensive collection. With wines sourced from across the globe, NICOLAS caters to every palate and budget. Whether you’re searching for an affordable gem or a luxurious bottle, you’ll find it here. As temperatures rise, lighter wines such as rosé become popular choices. This season, Whispering Angel, Miraval, Minuty and Château du Selle from Domaines Ott are some of the most sought-after labels. For those special occasions, NICOLAS offers a range of bottle sizes, including Magnum, Jeroboam, and even the grand Mathusalem.
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Georgina at the NICOLAS Guadalmina store. She shared how the pandemic has cultivated a new generation of wine lovers, eager to explore and share their discoveries. For many, choosing the right wine is as crucial as selecting the perfect dish. At NICOLAS, they understand this passion and are always ready to provide personalised advice. Georgina emphasised it is so important to try new wines, and to remember that the most expensive is not always the best, as it all depends on a person’s taste. So try something new.
Beyond wines, NICOLAS boasts a gourmet section featuring a delightful array of French aperitifs, pâtés, rillettes, sweets and gourmet snacks - perfect companions for your chosen wine. The store also offers a selection of elegant wine accessories and glasses, enhancing your overall experience. For spirits enthusiasts, NICOLAS has an impressive selection of premium spirits, with Tequila being particularly popular this season. Clase Azul and Don Julio 1942 are among the most requested.
NICOLAS also excels in providing gifts for wine lovers. They offer customisable hampers to suit any budget. Gift vouchers are available at all locations and online. If you have a specific bottle in mind, perhaps from a certain region or year NICOLAS can order it for you.
For a unique experience, visit the Guadalmina store with its seated terrace, you can enjoy your wine with freshly prepared oysters. This exquisite offering adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Oysters are also available to order and can be ordered prepared.
Starry & Killer Rockets
Woodward
AMAZING double bill lined
up for Sunday August 11 at the Birra and Arte Festival in Elviria, Marbella with
two of the best acts on the Costa del Sol: Rocio Starry and The Killer Rockets.
Alongside the usual plethora of food stalls and ones selling the best in craft and artisanal beers from around the world, there will be free live music guaranteed to get the crowds dancing.
First up, at 8pm, the jazzy, soulful sounds of Rocio Starry playing some favourite crowd movers.
But there is another amazing act on at 10pm. The Killer Rockets bringing their versions of 90s and 2000s classic punk, indie and rock.
The Birra and Arte festival is taking place from Thursday August 8 until Sunday 11 at Pinar de Elviria, Marbella. Rocio Starry and The Killer Rockets play the Sunday evening.
ARCH silent auction, Mijas
ARCH, (the Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses), is holding a wine and art evening with a silent auction on Friday August 9, 5pm to 8pm.
The fundraising event, which is being held at the Amor A Málaga wine bar in Mijas Pueblo, aims to raise money to support the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of horses and donkeys in need.
Local artists have generously donated pieces of their work to be auctioned off in order to help fi nance the rescue of equines who
have been abused, neglected, or abandoned, animals who have no one else to fi ght for their well-being. All funds raised will go directly to supporting the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of horses in need.
Silent auctions are fundraising events at which items for sale are displayed for attendees to peruse, place bids on, and purchase. Unlike traditional or live auctions, there is no auctioneer present. Instead, participants place their bids silently
and anonymously on a bid sheet using a bidding number.
ARCH cannot exist without the generosity of its supporters, and looks forward to seeing everyone at Amor A Málaga wine bar in Mijas Pueblo on Friday August 9, from 5pm to 8pm. The entrance fee is €10 and includes a glass of wine and a tapa. If you have artworks to donate, you can contact them about donating your artwork via the ARCH website at horserescue spain.org.
SHOWING ALL SPORTS
Check out Instagram and Facebook for full sports fixtures Using the links ->
Thursday @ 5.30pm - Sean Murray Friday @ 8.30pm - Ciarai n
Adam
Photos: Rocio Starry and The Killer Rockets official Facebook
Security of iPhones
APPLE is tracking unwitting iPhone users with a fea ture that was included as ‘default’ during the last iOs 17 update.
When the Journal app was added in 2023, one of its privacy settings, switched on to ‘default’, and allows people to interact with your phone when in the vicinity. To ensure yours is switched off, go to Settings, Privacy and Security, tap on the Journal app and where it says ‘Discoverable by others’, switch it to ‘off’.
However, even users who have deleted the Journal app have seen that ‘Discoverable by others’ remains switched on even after getting rid of it, leaving many iPhone users with privacy concerns.
The feature uses Bluetooth to detect nearby devices so to provide them with prompts for their journal entry. The idea is to make important encounters and significant moments easier to record and remember. The feature allows your iPhone to interact with nearby iPhones, so if you are close to another iPhone user, the Journal app will suggest you re cord your encounter with that person.
Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Pro duct Marketing, said last year, “And we’re making it pos sible for other journaling apps to offer the same perso nalised suggestions while maintaining the highest level of privacy.” However, Apple maintains that the informa tion remains stored on the device only and is not shared with Apple’s central computers.
Apple’s Journal app also courted controversy last year when it was discovered it took note of users’ photos, workout data, music listening history and location data, and doubts persist to whether Apple is sharing this information with other third parties.
Is your iPhone feeding data to third parties?
After Barcelona
VALENCIA’S head of tourism
Nuria Montes announced that the regional government will now fine homeowners as much as €600,000 for renting rooms to tourists shortterm. Moreover, all shortterm apartments will have to offer 24-hour reception service and internet access, with all tourism rentals acquiring a five-year licence to operate.
According to Montes, tourist rentals in Valencia have surged 170 per cent from 2015; the number of registered tourist rentals has more than doubled since then, now reaching at least 105,111.
As a measure to give back power to the residents, Valencian president, Carlos Mazon promised to control the housing crisis, stating that short-term rentals have “damaging effects which, in the case of tourist apartments, could create social problems, a drop in housing supplies and the consequent increase in prices.”
With the increase in short-
term rentals, long-term rentals are becoming extremely difficult to find. According to a study from the University of Valencia’s Institute of Housing, the city has a deficit of approximately 20,000 rental units. Tourism in Valencia accounts for 13 per cent of total GDP, according to CaixaBank Research.
Hence, aiming to find a balance between economic benefits and economic losses of tourism, Carlos Mazon stated; “With this legal framework, we provide security and certainty, and we move forward in our model of sustainable tourism that does not renounce anything or condemn anyone.”
Credit: Freepik
Valencia view from a roof.
Credit: Nataliya
Vaitkevich, Pexels
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Jet
propelled ROLLS-ROYCE is set for a record 2024 as chief executive Tufan Erginbilgic’s turnaround strategy takes shape, with City analysts predicting halfyear revenues of £7.7 billion (€9.1 billion) for the jet engine manufacturer. Sales rose 11 per cent as international flights returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Wall of China
HUAWEI sold more Samsung and Apple mobiles in Spain in 2019 while the Chinese company’s fibre optic and mobile networks had displaced Nokia and Ericsson. With Huawei now vetoed in US and Germany, Brussels wants Spain to follow suit by exerting pressure on Madrid via the EU’s Next Generation funds.
Evri time
EVRI, formerly Hermes, which was acquired by Apollo Global Management from Advent International for £2.7 billion (€3.2 billion) in late July, announced plans to hire 9,000 new employees. “The biggest-ever recruitment drive promises to deliver another record year,” Evri chief executive Martijn de Lange pledged.
Safe SAF
THE IAG group, which owns seven airlines including British Airways, has signed an agreement with Repsol for the purchase of 28,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) over the next six months. This will be used by all Aer Lingus, BA, Iberia, Iberia Express and Vueling flights when they take off from Spanish airports.
Good fo r you
LOW-ALCOHOL Guinness sales doubled in Europe as Gen Z drink less than their elders, with Guinness 0.0 accounting for 3 per cent of global Guinness sales, owner Diageo said. Elsewhere, the company’s turnover for spirits and other drinks fell 1.4 per cent to $20.3 billion (€18.8 billion) in the year ending June 30.
€2.67 billion STAT OF WEEK
net profit for CaixaBank during the first six months of 2024, a 25 per cent increase on 2023 and the bank’s best result since the 2021 merger with Bankia.
La Liga stays Orange Sky-high
ORANGE will transmit all La Liga matches and Europe’s principal tournaments during the 2024-2025 season.
The telecommunications company, now called Masorange following the French company’s €18.6 billion merger with MasMovil, recently reached agreement with Telefonica and sports streaming platform DAZN.
Orange will also air Spain’s LaLigaHypermotion second division matches together with the King’s Cup, equivalent to the UK’s FA Cup.
Between them, Telefonica and DAZN have owned these media rights since December 2021 after paying €4.95 billion to broadcast
the 2022-2023 season
Better than expected
LONDON-BASED oil giant BP’s second quarter results exceeded expectations with a $2.8 billion (€2.58 billion) net profit.
City analysts had predicted $2.6 billion (€2.39 billion) following BP’s 2024 first quarter profit of $2.7 billion (€2.49 billion) and the $2.6 billion ((€2.39 billion) earned during the second quarter of 2023.
Instead, weak refining earnings had been offset by stronger oil prices and retail, BP said on July 30.
Dividends rose 10 per cent from 7.27 cents to 8 cents per share, while the energy company announced that its share buyback programme would
Reaching up
REACH announced a £44.5 million (€52.7 million) operating profit for the first half of 2024, a 23 per cent increase on 2023.
The newspaper group which publishes the Daily Mirror, Daily Express and Daily Star as well as regional newspapers including the Manchester Evening News, said job cuts and “efficiency savings” compensated for falling print circulation and advertising, with total revenues dipping 5.2 per cent to £265 million (€324.58 million).
remain at $1.75 billion (€1.61 billion) over the next three years.
“The decision to boost shareholder returns reflects the confidence we have in our performance and outlook for cash generation,” Kate Thomson, chief financial officer at BP, pointed out.
By the end of the second quarter, net debt stood at $22.6 billion (€20.85), compared with $23.7 billion (€21.87) during the same period in 2023.
Murray Auchincloss, who took over as chief executive in January 2024, said BP was committed to delivering “a simpler, more focused and higher-value company” by overhau-
Cut-price sale
DIA supermarkets finished the first half of 2024 with a €93.5 million net loss.
This was 39 per cent more than during the same period in 2023 and the outcome of selling Dia’s Brazilian subsidiary for a symbolic €100 in May.
At the time, Dia acknowledged that this would involve a €101 million loss, although figures now submitted to Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) reveal that this rose to €106.8 million.
Losses accumulated by the Brazilian company accounted for €88.5 million of the total, while Dia lost a further €18.3 million on the sale of the business to MAM Asset Management, the private equity fund belonging to Banco Master.
2023-2024 rights, sources close to the operation told Spain’s financial newspaper, Cinco Dias Masorange’s new chief executive Meirnad Spenger has already stressed the brand’s commitment to providing football as the company bids to attract - and retain - clients with comprehensive premium contracts.
ling operations and focusing on those that were most profitable.
This will involve trimming back its green investments and advancing on high-value fossil fuel projects, including the Kaskida project in the Gulf of Mexico.
Slight cut
LORD HAMMOND, Britain’s Chancellor between 2016 and 2019, said the Bank of England would probably delay a cut in interest rates.
Members of the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), would be unhappy about pay rises that exceed the 2 per cent inflation rate, and their concerns would not be dispelled by the present Chancellor’s pay rise promises of up to 5 per cent for public sector employees.
“The headline inflation rate looks relatively stable at 2 per cent but services are rising at quite an alarming rate,” the peer told Sky News, shortly before the Bank ruled out a reduction.
AENA will raise passenger tariffs from €10.35 to €10.40 in 2025.
The tariff increase has been approved by Aena’s board but this must now be reviewed by Spain’s Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC), the operator revealed.
The company also announced a first-half net profit of €806.6 million obtained from shop rentals, car parks and other concerns as well as airline operations.
Approximately 144 million passengers used Aena’s Spanish terminals during the first six months of 2024, up 11.4 per cent on last year’s 130 million.
CEPSA returned to the black between January and the end of June with a net profit of €168 million, after having posted a €393 million loss in the first half of 2023.
Spain’s second-largest oil company, now owned by Abu Dhabi’s Mubdala fund and the Washington-based Carlyle Group, reported a net income excluding operating and non-operating expenses, of €398 million.
This 175 per cent improvement on 2023’s €145 million was the result of a favourable market for the energy sector and better sales for Cepsa Quimica.
TEKEVER, a drone company whose devices alert the Home Office to small boats in the English Channel, is considering a London stock market flotation.
Chief executive Ricardo Mendes said the company, which operates from a base in Kent, was growing well and it was likely to prepare to list within the “next few years.”
The company would prefer London if the listing were to take place in Europe, Mendes said, but added that New York was also a good option.
MEIRNAD SPENDER: Masorange chief executive stressed commitment to football.
Photo credit: grupomasmovil.com
Photo credit: CC/Whisper to me BP: London headquarter announced buoyant second-quarter earnings.
3I Group 3.008,00 3.064,20 2.979,00 225,93K Admiral Group 2.704,0 2.725,0 2.698,0 24,6K
British American Tobacco 2.794,0 2.807,0 2.784,0 488,87K
BT Group 138,05 138,60 136,85 3,33M
Bunzl 3.194,0 3.210,0 3.182,0 40,86K
Burberry Group 760,2 764,0 750,0 160,48K Centrica 130,06 130,70 127,80 1,05M Coca Cola HBC AG 2.830,0 2.840,0 2.814,0 28,81K Compass 2.374,00 2.391,00 2.367,00
No thanks
SPANISH train manufacturer Talgo has turned down Skoda Transportation’s takeover offer. As the Czech engineering company did not contemplate besting the Ganz-MaVag consortium’s offer of €5 per share, Talgo replied that it did not consider this an “adequate moment” to consider a merger.
BT to WPP
PHILIP JANSEN, former chief executive of BT, is replacing Roberto Quarta as chairman of London-based WPP, the world’s largest advertising company. Jansen will join the WPP board in September, taking over in January 2025 on a £575,000 (€681,539) salary.
Reeves’ NatWest backtrack
THE UK’s new Chancellor Rachel Reeves has abandoned plans to sell the government’s NatWest’s holding to ordinary investors.
NatWest, which received a £45.5 billion (€53.9 billion) bailout in 2008, welcomed the announcement on July 29.
“We welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to returning NatWest Group to full private ownership,” a spokesperson commented.
“This is a shared ambi-
Banks chip in
CRITERIACAIXA has obtained a €1.65 billion syndicated loan that will finance the shares acquired in Telefonica, ACS and the Colonial real estate company.
CriteriaCaixa, is a holding company owned solely by the La Caixa Banking Foundation, which is also CaixaBank’s primary shareholder.
More than 20 banks were involved in the operation coordinated and backed
by Societe Generale that was oversubscribed by €4.65 billion and would have practically tripled the original loan.
The €1.65 billion has been split into a €1.15 billion bridging loan to be repaid within a year, with the possibility of two six-month extensions. The second amount of €500 should be repaid within three years, with an additional 12 months if required.
Reeves’ predecessor at the Treasury had intended to offer the shares at a discounted price to promote takeup but these plans were put on hold when the then prime minister, Rishi Sunak, called a snap election for July 4.
The Chancellor said that the previous government’s scheme would not have made good use of public money, with the retail share sale costing taxpayers up to £450 million (€533 million).
She implied that the bank’s remaining 20 per cent holding would now be sold to large, institutional investors and said that the government still intended to “fully exit” NatWest during the 2025-2026 financial year.
Meanwhile, NatWest disclosed that it had already spent £24 million (€28.4 million) on the abandoned retail share scheme, which included advertising and other overheads.
Looking ahead
ON presenting its halfyear results, the BBVA bank announced a record net profit of €5 billion, 29 per cent more than during the first half of 2023. Should its hostile Sabadell takeover bid succeed, BBVA revealed that it would save €300 million by closing 300 of 870 BBVA and Sabadell branches located within 500 metres of each other.
Asda therapy
WITH Asda shares falling 5.9 per cent over the last quarter, co-owner Mohsin Issa announced a £30 million (€35.5 million) cash injection to offset the retailer’s declining market share, making it the only major supermarket chain to lose customers. The extra cash will be used to boost staff hours and improve customer service levels.
tion that we believe is in the best interests of both
the bank and all our shareholders.”
Photo credit: FB Rachel Reeves
RACHEL REEVES: Cancelled NatWest retail share sale
Rocking chair
WITH the rising popularity of remote work and digitalisation, most of us spend a vast amount of time facing the computer. Researchers at Dresden University of Technology have developed an offi ce chair designed to alleviate the pain of sedentary workers.
The ergonomics Engineer, Dr Martin Schmauder shared; “We wanted to learn at what point a movement is most effective, to deduce when it would be good to get up and walk around.”
The team has designed a rocking chair with a high gravity centre; while sitting, the head remains in a frame, allowing you to keep the upper body still, while swinging your legs and imitating walking.
“Here we tried to trans-
fer the movement of walking to sitting because the centre of rotation is in the middle of the
measure pelvic movement; the users can see exactly how much energy, in calories, they have
Shave or save?
Now, the Dresden scientists are waiting for manufacturers to turn the rocking chair into an ce chair. “If we can make sitting similar to walking, we’ve won,”
THE topic of whether men should shave their armpits often sparks debate, balancing personal preference, hygiene, and societal norms. Traditionally, body hair on men has been seen as a sign of masculinity. However, recent trends suggest a shift in public perception, with more men opting to shave or trim their armpit hair.
Hygiene is a key consideration. Shaving can reduce sweat and odour, as hair traps moisture and bacteria. Athletes and individuals leading active lifestyles might find this particularly beneficial. On the other hand, some men experience irritation or ingrown hairs from shaving, making trimming a preferable option.
Public perception is evolving. Younger generations, influenced by social media and changing beauty standards, increasingly view grooming as gender-neutral. Surveys indicate a growing acceptance of men shaving their armpits, with many appreciating the clean look and improved hygiene.
Credit:
Whether for comfort, aesthetics, or hygiene, men should choose what makes them feel best while acknowledging the changing norms around male grooming.
Robotic surgery
ONE brave boy, age seven, became the first in the UK to undergo robotic surgery for kidneys.
Reece WIlton, from Hampshire, underwent an operation at Southampton Children’s Hospital involving the Versius Surgical Robotic System.
Reece was diagnosed with pelviureteric junction obstruction, a restriction to the flow of urine from the renal pelvis to the ureter.
The Versius Surgical Robotic System uses small instruments to allow surgeons to perform complex and precise operations.
During the surgery, it was remotely controlled by Dr Ewan Brownlee.
Dr Brownlee controlled the robot’s dexterous arms to remove part of Reece’s kidney and stitch him back up.
Reece’s father, Ashley Wilton, expressed the fear
Reece Wilton is the first in the UK to undergo robotic surgery.
he felt before the operation, however, after the operation, Ashley said he was in disbelief at how quickly his son had returned to his healthy self.
Dr Brownlee said the robotic surgery has clear benefits for patients, including quicker healing time and smaller scars, stating “The hope is if we can prove this is successful it can be rolled out around the country and then maybe around the world.”
Versius’ robotic system is part of a study involving 150 patients, with the trial now being expanded to Manchester and London, hoping to help other kids just like Reece.
Andrea Piacquadio, Pexels
UNDERSTANDING your love language can enhance relationships by fostering better communication and connection. The concept of love languages, introduced by Dr Gary Chapman, outlines fi ve distinct ways people express and receive love: Words of Affi rmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch.
Decoding love
Words of Affi rmation involve expressing love through verbal compliments and appreciation. Acts of Service include doing helpful tasks to show you care. Receiving Gifts is about the thoughtfulness behind giving and receiving tangible
Sustainable diet
RESEARCHERS found that following a sustainable diet doesn’t just preserve the environment but improves human longevity, preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
“We really need to think about this to protect our own health,” highlighted a Swedish professor of public health sciences, Scäfer Elinder.
A study in Sweden proved that a climate-friendly diet can reduce the risk of dying prematurely by as much as 3 per cent. It was revealed that reducing animal protein
consumption; cutting down on red meat, not only benefited one’s health but helped preserve the environment due to the difficulty of beef production.
The study encouraged people to choose instead a plant-based protein, including lentils and beans for a nutritionally balanced diet.
greatly
One would also contribute to both their health and nature by purchasing local and seasonal vegetables and fruits, reducing mass production.
Limiting ultra-processed foods would also
tokens of affection. Quality Time focuses on undivided attention and meaningful interactions. Physical Touch emphasises the importance of physical closeness and touch in conveying love.
improve personal health and preserve the environment, as these foods require a large amount of energy, water and additives, which are moreover harmful to humans.
“We would get reduced greenhouse gas
Identifying your pri-
mary love language can help you understand how you prefer to be loved and how to best express love to others. For instance, if your partner values Quality Time, prioritising shared activities can strengthen your bond. Embracing these languages nurtures empathy and intimacy, fostering healthier and more fulfi lling relationships.
emissions and reduced eutrophication, water consumption and land use,” suggested Elinder, encouraging people to take care not only of themselves but the world around them.
Credit: Jane Trang Doan, Pexels
Nature’s medicine
MENOPAUSE brings various symptoms that can disrupt daily life, including hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Among the natural remedies available, black cohosh stands out as one of the best herbs for combating menopause symptoms.
Black cohosh, a perennial plant native to North America, has been used for centuries to address women’s health issues. It is particularly effective in reducing hot flashes and
night sweats, common complaints during menopause. The herb works by influencing hormone levels, although it does not contain hormones itself. Instead, it mimics the effects of oestrogen, helping to balance hormonal fluctuations.
Additionally, black cohosh can help alleviate mood swings and improve sleep quality. Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to overall well-being, making it a comprehensive choice for
managing menopausal discomforts.
Black cohosh is widely available and easy to purchase. You can find it in health food stores, pharmacies and online retailers.
While generally safe, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any herbal supplement, as black cohosh can interact with certain medications and conditions.
Used correctly, black cohosh can be a valuable ally in navigating the challenges of menopause naturally.
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Heat’s effect on the brain
AMID another record-setting year for high temperatures, in which 80 per cent of Spanish municipalities are under a temperature warning, recent studies have illustrated the link between high heat and cognitive function.
The brain is a particularly sensitive organ to heat, and recent studies have illustrated the brain’s decreased performance when exposed to prolonged, extreme heat.
Sandra Gimenez, a neurophysiologist at the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau in Barcelona, expanded on the subject, explaining the link between high temperatures and cloudiness in the brain.
“Extreme heat affects all the cognitive functions of the brain: our ability to react, our response capacity, memory, etc. Everything becomes much harder; we go much slower,” said Gimenez. “We are not going to say that neurons melt, but there is an effect. Performance is much poorer in high temperatures.”
This comes as Spain grapples with a sweltering heatwave, June saw all-time record temperatures, and
July saw little derivation.
In addition to hampering the brain’s ability to function as normal, extreme heat is also linked to difficulties for people with schizophrenia as the brain struggles to regulate impulses and can cause episode flare-ups for individuals with mood disorders.
Inheritance Bear killing outcry
UNDERSTANDING inheritance laws is essential to leave your legacy in Spain.
The Law of Obligatory Heirs applies to all Spanish residents; if the deceased was married at the time of death, the spouse preserves 50 per cent of all jointly-owned property, while the remaining 50 per cent goes towards the estate.
The estate is then divided into three equal portions; one-third equally between any surviving children and one-third is
distributed amongst surviving children equally or unequally according to instructions in a will.
The surviving spouse retains a life interest in this part of the estate, which the children don’t inherit until the spouse’s death. The deceased may dispose of the final onethird freely in a will.
In cases without children, surviving parents can claim one-third if there is a surviving spouse and 50 per cent if not.
With no surviving relatives, the estate can be gi-
ven to anyone in Spain or abroad through a will.
EU residents and nonEU can choose whether to adhere to the law of their home country or their residence country.
If a foreigner in Spain dies intestate, Spanish law requires that the inheritance process be completed within six months; it is then advised to employ a lawyer. To claim someone’s estate without a will, one should apply for a grant of probate, which can be done from your country of origin.
A BEAR that attacked a French tourist near Lake Garda in Trentino on July 16 was killed by forestry officials on July 29.
The victim was airlifted to hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, but the attack was the excuse that Trento’s provincial governor Maurizio Fugatti had been waiting for.
Deaf to criticism not only from animal rights groups but also Italy’s Environment minister, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, the governor gave the order to cull the female bear who, experts ex plained, struck out in defence of her cubs.
Two previous orders to kill the 22-year-old bear identified as KJ1 were suspended following appeals, but Fugatti gave the order late at ni ght to prevent a last-minute cha llenge.
The provin cial authorities claimed the July 16 attack was the latest of “at least” seven interactions involving KJ1 since 2017.
She was killed in the woods in the early hours of July 30 and the outcry was not long in coming.
“I had already told Fugatti that killing individual bears was not the solution,” Picchetto Fratin said afterwards
Sterilising female bears considered a potential threat to humans was the best way of tackling the problem, the minister added.
Environmentalists also expressed “deep concerns” about the fate of the three cubs.
Filling in your inheritance taxes.
Credit: Mikhail Nilov, Pexels
BROWN BEARS: Reintroduced to Italy’s Dolomites in the late 1990s.
Photo credit: Ecohustler/Roger Thompson
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Axarquia Hot summer for hotels
HOTEL occupancy on the eastern coast of Axarquia hit over 82 per cent in July. According to the Association of Hotel Entrepreneurs of the Costa del Sol (Aehcos), August is looking even better, with predictions nearing 88 per cent.
Aehcos shared that hotels in Malaga Province saw an occupancy rate of 86.66 per cent in July. This is a slight improvement from July 2023, which had 84.63 per cent. International tourists made up 70 per cent of this, while local tourists were 30 per cent.
José Luque, the president of Aehcos, mentioned that this rise in occupancy is great news for the hotel sector. But he’s also a bit worried about the slowdown in future bookings from the national market. This cautious trend means they need to be careful with their predictions for the coming months, though they’re still hopeful for a good summer season.
Costa Blanca North Tourism development
WHILE there may be an ‘anti-tourist’ movement happening in parts of Spain at the moment, one town which wants to continue to attract visitors is Teulada-Moraira.
To achieve this, they have recently given the green light to a Tourism Sustainability Plan. This plan is set to benefit from a €2 million investment from EU Generation funds. Its primary goal is to foster tourism development that is balanced and sustainable, and it encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at conserving the environment, enhancing the quality of life for locals, and encouraging responsible tourism.
The councillor for Tourism and European Funds, Susanne Katzgrau, said “This plan is an essential tool to ensure tourism development that benefits everyone while protecting the natural environment.”
The plan consists of several programme areas, including green and sustainable transition, improving energy efficiency, digital transition, parking sensorisation, and competitiveness.
Mallorca Filming reality show
CHRIS HEMSWORTH, the iconic Thor, will be shooting a reality show in Mallorca in August. This is the latest in a long line of high-profile productions choosing the island as their backdrop.
The Balearic Islands have become a hot spot for the film industry. More than 100 commercials are shot here annually, and the number of feature films and short films is on the rise. From the independent charm of productions like Igor Fioravanti’s ‘Ibiza Dream’ to the star-studded allure of Francesca Joseph’s ‘Four Last Songs’ featuring Stanley Tucci, the islands offer a diverse canvas for storytelling.
It is clear that Mallorca’s star is on the rise. With its stunning beauty and growing reputation as a film-friendly destination, the island is set to continue its reign as the Mediterranean’s Hollywood.
Chris is married to Spanish actress Elsa Pataky. Her breakthrough role was in the Spanish TV series ‘Al salir de clase’.
Costa Blanca South Cura Beach Live
IT is now possible to watch live footage of Cura Beach in Torrevieja, one of the city’s most central and popular beaches, especially during the summer.
The Proyecto Mastral team has installed a new webcam that complements six other webcams placed at various locations around Torrevieja.
These live streams can be accessed through the Proyecto Mastral YouTube channel, the website webcams.eltiempoentorrevieja.es, and the Proyecto Mastral mobile app.
The new camera, equipped with panoramic lenses, offers live views of the entire beach both day and night, with a maximum resolution of 4K.
The successful installation of this webcam was made possible by the generous support of Pizzería Nº1, a renowned restaurant situated directly in front of Cura Beach.
The purpose of this new camera is to provide a virtual connection to this beautiful part of the “city of salt,” allowing viewers to observe the weather.
Almeria Almeriport surge
THE Port of Almeria, on Wednesday, July 31, welcomed a new high-end cruise ship marking a significant event for the province’s tourism.
Cruise tourism in Almeria continues to grow as an exclusive destination within the luxury travel industry, welcoming more tourists into the port each year.
The Wind Surf, from the Windstar Cruises company, is the largest sailboat in the world with a length of 189 metres and a weight of 14,745 gross tonnes.
The Wind Surf arrived in the province’s capital on Wednesday and brought with it 342 guests and 210 crew members, allowing them all to enjoy and explore the beauty of Almeria. The sailing ship is making an eight-day route through the Mediterranean, visiting other cities including; Palma de Mallorca, Cartagena, Malaga, Gibraltar and Cadiz.
The arrival of this superior cruise ship to Almeria City is a fantastic opportunity for the province’s tourism, with an influx of almost 350 guests, and more including the crew.
Costa Calida
Lend a hand at Hugo’s
HUGO’S Home Farm is looking to expand and is seeking local volunteers to help make it happen. The farm, in a small Spanish village near Camposol, aims to increase its capacity from nine to 18 horses but needs community support to achieve this.
To ensure the animals receive the best care, local volunteers are needed for various roles. These include feeding, grooming, and general maintenance, with opportunities to also help with smaller animals like meerkats and parrots.
Volunteering at Hugo’s Home Farm offers a chance to learn about horse care, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to a positive environment. The farm provides training for those interested in working with horses and invites volunteers to help with gardening and maintenance tasks as well.
Volunteer shifts are available from 8-10.30am and 5-7.30pm. Whether residents or seasonal visitors, those willing to commit a few hours weekly are encouraged to join and help support the farm.
Killed by wasp sting
TOP Italian chef killed by a wasp sting while he was taking flowers to his mother’s grave.
Chef Marc Pavel received the nasty sting from a wasp on July 26 as he was visiting the cemetery where his mother is buried.
When driving home, he began to suffer an extreme reaction to the sting including difficulty breathing.
He was unable to continue driving and shortly before arriving home, had to stop his car to seek help.
He was later found collapsed on the ground next to his car after suffering a cardiac arrest.
On being found, he was rushed to hospital in Trieste, Italy, but the anaphylaxis caused by the sting, just worsened his condition, he fell into a coma and finally died four days later.
Best known for his pumpkin cappuccino
with an edible cup in which toasted almonds and slices of foie gras were combined, the popular 47-year-old chef had won numerous prizes throughout his career, and his fame was beginning to expand internationally.
The reaction that most people experience after a wasp or bee sting is pain, discomfort and redness around the
place of the sting, with swelling that may increase over a few hours. Smaller swellings will often go down without medical treatment after a couple of days. In some very rare cases, however, it can cause an allergic reaction, or ‘anaphylaxis’ requiring emergency medical treatment in which adrenalin is administered.
New National Park
IN Spanish waters, it will be the 17th, and the first ma rine-only natio nal park. The application to designate Mar de las Calmas, in the Canary Islands, just south of El Hierro island, as a natio nal park, has just been approved by the Council of Ministers.
With this, the Ministry of Ecological Transition acknowledged the special significance of natural wealth of this marine area spanning over 24,000 hectares, as well as its aesthetic, cultural, educational, and scientific benefits.
Based on recent scientific studies, the area is deemed to have high natural value due to its exceptional biodiversity and the presence
of tropical and subtropical species that are less common in the rest of the Canary Islands, as well as normally deep-water species that live close to the coast.
Indeed, one of the world’s most important populations of deep-water cetaceans,
the beaked whale, calls these waters home.
Vice President Teresa Ribera stated that the project for this newest addition to Spain’s national parks has been a long time coming and has involved intense labour to balance maximum protection with the area’s traditional fishing and tourism activities.
The work has involved continuous dialogue with town councils, residents, and fishing communities.
Additionally, the procedure of transforming this area into a recognised protected zone will require time - at least a year.
Following the official publishing of this decision, a four-month period of public consultation will be open.
Seas south of El Hierro designated National Park for biodiversity.
Credit: wewe yang, Pexels
Late Chef Marc Pavel serving up pasta for friends.
Credit: Pastificio Barone, Facebook
Luxury flight Egyptians skipped work too
WHAT was once a chic and luxurious experience, has now become a commodity as the increase of budget airlines made flying more accessible. beOnd is one of the few airlines targeting an all-business class clientele, offering ‘flying beyond the ordinary’.
Launched in late 2023, the airline offers premium flights to and from the Maldives, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Asia. Its locations include Dubai, Milan, Munich, Zurich, Riyadh and Malé.
With beOnd, the journey begins with a complimen-
tary chauffeur service and at the airport, the clients benefit from the peace of waiting in an exclusive lounge.
Onboard, the travellers are welcomed by the top-trained crew and Italian leather seats. With an extensive menu of international flavours, the finest ingredients and recipes are presented. All seats include the comfort of Bluetooth connections, a USB port and a power outlet. Of course, premium experiences come with a cost but since its launch, beOnd has lowered its prices, now
providing offers starting at €2,289 tickets.
One of the concerns of premium-class airlines, however, is seasonality.
From May to November, the Maldives are dominated by rain. When asked about the topic, the company’s CEO Tero Taskila said that seasonal destinations “become year-round destinations” once there’s enough appeal and they often collaborate with resorts.
Despite being a niche category, beOnd’s CEO believes their efforts make the limited schedule and the price entirely worth it.
How is that a fair fight?
WHAT’S happened to fairness in sport? A biologically male boxer Imane Khelif demolished Angela Carini in 46 seconds at the Paris Olympics. Carini quit the bout to ‘save my life’. Khelif and a Taiwanese boxer both received permission from the International Olympic Committee to participate in the women’s tournament despite the fact that a year ago they were disqualified at the women’s World Cup after DNA tests showed that they were carriers of the XY chromosome and therefore biologically male. How is that a fair fight? And how can the organisers, or anybody for that matter, think this is OK.
Apparently there are two different bodies in charge of boxing events and they have different standards for competitors. But aside from guidelines, common sense must play a part. It is not sport to put two obviously mismatched competitors in to a boxing ring. The IOC defended their decision and the fact that the IOC is made up of men and women makes the decision even more disgraceful. JK Rowling commented, ‘Explain why you’re OK with a man beating a wo-
man to entertain you.’ This current trend to seemingly want to punish women, who have trained so hard to perfect their sport, by pitting them against biological men, whether that is in boxing, swimming or any other sport, has got to stop.
So Mrs S and I managed to find a TV series that we hadn’t previously watched - result! It was a good little series - I won’t tell you the name as I’m about to reveal the ending. We marched our way through 16 episodes only to be furious when the main character got killed off! It was totally unnecessary and ruined it for us. Why couldn’t there be a happy ending? Not killing off the main character would have made such a difference to the whole series and to our enjoyment of it. Maybe we should watch the endings first in future before investing our time! And how come in every film, TV series etc, everyone always finds a parking space right outside of where they need to be? That’s not real life and certainly not Spain in August!!
I asked Mrs S what makes her grumpy. Her reply, ‘You always leaving it until the last minute to write your article for EWN’. And that’s the reason why Mrs S has written this article and not me! Thank you my darling wife for getting me out of trouble … again.
Email: mikesenker@gmail.com
A 3,200-YEAR-OLD Egyptian tablet shows work attendance and absences, and reasons for skipping a work day include ‘embalming brother,’ ‘brewing beer,’ and ‘stung by a scorpion.’
The ancient Egyptian tablet, displayed in the British Museum, was a work supervisor’s attendance sheet and was used to register the reasons workers were absent. It seems that construction workers on the Great Pyramids had to clock-in and clockout like every other worker in history and calling in sick was just as common then as it is now. It also shows some interesting excuses for not going into work.
The stone tablet, known as an ostracon, is a limestone slab inscribed with red and black ink. On it, names, dates and reasons for not turning up to work. One such excuse noted an employee who couldn’t make it in because his mother was ill. Other reasons given for the workers’ own ailments was one that says he had been stung in the eye by a scorpion. Several other absentee employees gave embalming deceased relatives as their reason.
Some excuses simply would not be tolerated today, such as for example ‘brewing beer’. Home-made beer was an important part of ancient Egyptian civilisation because, among other reasons, the alcohol killed the bacteria in water. Beer was also considered a fortifying beverage associated with the god Hathor and therefore considered a good reason to miss work.
Maybe brewing beer should be brought back as a valid excuse for skipping work today.
Lanzarote’s liquid loot!
FROM afar, the vineyards of Lanzarote seem deserted, with their vast, jet-black terrain etched by cone-shaped hollows, reminiscent of giant thumbprints pressed into the earth. Yet, a closer look reveals each crater cradling a vine at its core.
Situated just 127km from Africa, Lanzarote stands as the easternmost gem of the Canary Islands, a volcanic archipelago. While its landscape echoes a lunar vista, it also evokes a prehistoric Earth.
The volcanoes of Timanfaya National Park last erupted in 1824, but it was the devastating series starting in 1730 that reshaped life.
Blanketing a quarter of the island, lava wiped out villages, causing famine and emigration. But leaving a blessing in disguise: a layer of volcanic ash called picón.
Winemaking, a tradition dating back to the 15th century, was lowkey until the eruptions. Necessity spurred innovation for the island’s resilient residents. Grappling with the barren landscape, they discovered grapevines thrived in the ashrich soil.
Despite scant rainfall, fierce trade winds and dust storms, farmers devised ingenious solutions. They dug conical hollows, using the picón to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Thus, a wine region blossomed from adversity.
In Lanzarote, the vineyards stand as a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s resilience, a story etched in every sip of its unique wines. Cheers!
Me? I’m on a whisky diet. Last week I lost three days!
Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.norajohnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Flying beyond the ordinary.
Credit: Fly beOnd, Facebook
Ancient Egyptian way of clocking in at work.
Credit: Manchester Museum, Facebook
Bella could be cared for by free pet-sitters
WHEN Bella was a puppy her owners took her with them everywhere, when they were out to dinner and when they went on holiday. Now she is a relatively big dog at nearly three years old they’re planning to find a free checked pet-sitter from HouseSitMatch to care for her in her own home.
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
Meet Bella the Golden Retriever who goes everywhere with her owners.
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
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Kitty catwalk
TRAINING your cat to walk on a leash can be a rewarding experience, offering safe outdoor exploration. Start by choosing a comfortable, well-fitting harness designed for cats. Allow your cat to get used to the harness indoors by letting them wear it for short periods, gradually increasing the time.
Attach the leash to the harness and let your cat drag it around to familiarise themselves with the new sensation. Use treats and praise to create positive associations.
Once your cat is comfortable, gently guide them with the leash indoors before venturing outside.
Ensure the outdoor environment is safe and free from potential hazards like busy roads or aggressive animals. Always supervise your cat closely to prevent accidents or escapes.
With patience and positive reinforcement, many cats can learn to enjoy leash walks, providing them with mental stimulation and physical exercise.
WINDOWS
A Peugeot Success
THE commercial launch of the new PEUGEOT E-3008 is a true success with 50,000 orders recorded to date, within just two months of going on sale across Europe. Twenty-five per cent are for the 100 per cent electric version.
Launched in March in France and then extended to major European markets in May, the PEUGEOT E-3008 continues its conquest, far exceeding its targets.
This success confirms
PEUGEOT’s commitment to supporting its customers in their transition to electrification by consistently offering a vehicle that meets their needs.
With an electric mix of 25 per cent (which is above the segment average), the PEUGEOT E-3008 excites with its innovative concept.
Designed, developed, and manufactured in France (Sochaux), this Fastback SUV embodies French technological ex-
cellence and revolutionises standards with its bold design. It prioritises driving pleasure thanks to its spectacular Panoramic i-Cockpit®. This immersive and intuitive experience, with an ergonomic dashboard and digital controls, is enriched by a wide range of connected services.
The majority of orders are for the high-end (GT) version of the PEUGEOT E-3008, which strengthens the brand’s upper mainstream strategy.
Child safety - essential
ENSURING the safety of children in cars is a critical responsibility for parents and guardians, particularly when travelling in Spain. Spanish law mandates specific measures to protect young passengers, reflecting a commitment to reducing road accidents and injuries.
In Spain, children under 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child restraint system (CRS). These systems vary based on the child’s age, weight, and height, ensuring maximum protection. Infants and toddlers should be placed in rear-facing car seats, which provide better support for their developing neck and spine.
guidelines
Children under 135 cm must travel in the back seat of the car. This rule minimises the risk of injury from front-seat airbags and other potential hazards. Exceptions are allowed if the vehicle has no rear seats, if the rear seats are already occupied by other children in car seats, or if the rear
seats cannot accommodate a car seat.
Ensuring that the child restraint system is correctly installed is crucial. Misaligned or loosely fitted seats can compromise safety. Regularly check that the current seat still meets the child’s requirements and upgrade to the next stage seat when necessary.
Failure to comply with child safety laws in Spain can result in significant fines and penalty points on the driver’s licence. More importantly, non-compliance can put children at serious risk in the event of an accident.
ROAD TEST
By Mark Slack
THERE was a time when you would mention electric cars to even the least car aware person and it’s highly likely they’d mention Tesla. It’s been the EV brand of choice, and remained relatively uncha llenged. However, there’s an increasingly cool, trendy and eminently capable rival that’s somewhat dented Tesla’s top slot.
Polestar has slowly but surely been a thorn in Tesla’s premium position, as far as EV popular culture is concerned, since it launched back in 2019. An offshoot of Swedish car maker Volvo, and parent company Geely in China, Polestar has made impressive progress in the motoring cons ciousness of drivers, thanks largely to the Polestar 2.
Polestar 2 - practical and effortless EV
premium feel. As with the exterior of the car it’s the archetypal less is more effect that has been executed so well by Polestar.
While not carrying the sleek and smooth exterior of many EVs, the Polestar 2 has a determined and muscular stance. Inside there’s a definite Scandinavian vibe with a range of stylish treatments and the build quality is superb. It’s an extremely nice place to conduct your daily driving.
Facts at a Glance
Model: Polestar 2 (Standard range, Single motor)
Engine: 200kw/268bhp electric motor with 69kWh Lithium-ion battery
Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets
A large central screen, which still doesn’t cut it over buttons in my view, is relatively intuitive with beautifully clear graphics. Although the interior is most definitely minimalist there’s no loss of
Prices start from €52,072/£43,950 and standard features across all Polestar 2 models include such items as wireless phone charging, dual zone climate control, power seats. Rain sensors, LED lights with adaptive hi beam, powered, heated and folding door mirrors. On the road the Polestar has a certain something which makes it special. Power delivery is smooth and effortless with admirable insulation from road and wind noise.
On the power front you can have a standard single motor with rear wheel drive, a long-range version and then a long-range dual motor and dual motor performance pack with all dual motor models having all-wheel-drive. A refresh last year has seen increased mileage range from 497km/339 miles all the way through to 653km/406 miles dependent upon model. In my experience the Polestar comes pretty close to meeting its range expectations. As with combustion powered cars it all depends on how you drive. However you look at it though these ranges, even in real world driving, make the Polestar one of the most useable and practical EVs. If you’re in the market for an EV then Polestar quite simply has to be on your potential purchase list.
