Malaga’s party of the year is here
EXPECTED to be bigger than ever, the most momentous party of the year in Malaga Province starts up on Friday August 16.
Parade of the Kings to open the Feria de Malaga (2016).
From front page
Hikers with no water rescued A
There are due to be some family-friendly and visually dazzling elements to look out for at this year’s fair that will make this ‘Feria’ a little more special than usual.
The spectacular Catholic King’s parade is making a comeback for the rst time since before the pandemic.
Taking centre stage through the historic centre of the city, the parade, meant to mark the o cial start of the summer fair with the arrival of the Catholic Kings. At least 200 people are expected to participate in the colourful costumed parade on Friday August 16 starting at 8pm, everyone dressed in typical 15th century clothing to symbolise the retaking of Spain from the Moors.
As a traditional representation of the Reconquest, two parades beginning at the Plaza de la Merced and Calle Alcazabilla, march in direction of la Plaza de la Aduana, both starting out at around 8.15. When both parades meet at Plaza de la Aduana, there will be a ceremonial handing over of the key to the city. This should be a truly visual feast for everyone.
The parade then continues through the historic city centre streets leaving just enough time to enjoy some dinner before the big light show begins. For a good restaurant, pre-booking is a must this night. At 10 to midnight, over at Malaga Port, organisers have programmed a massive drone light show visible from all over the city, and then followed by a thrilling reworks display.
If you are planning on going, parking will be virtually impossible, be sure to check out public transport options, many of which will be running all night.
THREE hikers stranded in the Malaga mountains were nally rescued by the Guardia Civil after becoming dehydrated and disorientated on the region’s highest peak.
The alarm was raised when an emergency call came in from one of the men requesting assistance and saying they had no water and that one of their party had a heart condition.
The men were su ering from exhaustion, dehydration and disorientation some 300 metres from the top of the 1,800-metre La Maroma mountain. The Mountain Rescue Group arm of the Guardia Civil along with the local re brigade were scrambled, but it took them eight hours to locate and rescue the threemiddle-aged men.
Luckily, they were found, given liquids and food and
helped back to safety in the nearby village of Sedella and did not need further medical attention.
In 2022 alone, the Guardia Civil had to launch 1,157 operations for mountain hikers in Spain, rescuing 1,600 people. In 93.2 per cent of cases there was no
guide present and most incidents occurred due to overestimation of the possibilities of tackling a high mountain activity. Among other elements, that overcon dence came from relying on one of the multitude of telephone apps for hiking routes.
Fuengirola drones drop lifebuoys
DRONES flying along the shoreline of Fuengirola beaches can drop inflatable lifebuoys for bathers in distress.
The flying lifeguards used for aerial surveillance of Fuengirola’s shores on the lookout for swimmers in trouble, carried out more than 2,600 missions between June and July of 2024. These four remote-controlled drones clocked up a total of 361 flight hours during that period, most of which were for surveillance and the protection of beach users. However, they also performed four rescues.
Most of the time, these flights
were simply for monitoring the safety of bathers and 25 per cent were for what they call ‘preven-
tative measures’. Coordinated by the Rescue and Lifeguard service, the drones were able to respond quickly and effectively, alerting aquatic resources, such as boats or jet skis, and ultimately making bathing much safer for users. In addition, during June and July 2024, there were four ‘rescue’ or ‘assistance interventions’ for bathers. In these cases, the drone was able to locate the person in trouble and drop an inflatable lifebuoy from the air, which the bather could then grab onto and wait for the arrival of the lifeguard service, thus ensuring the safety and life of the person.
View from La Maroma mountain.
Jabato Veloz, Pico La Maroma, Malaga, Facebook
Credit:
Fuengirola beach drones dropped 4 lifebuoys June & July 24.
Spanish heatwaves
SPAIN has experienced a noticeable increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in recent years. The Mediterranean region is particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures due to its already warm climate and unique geographical features.
Heatwaves in Spain can cause severe health impacts, strain on energy systems, and agricultural disruptions. Extended periods of extreme heat can exacerbate existing health conditions,
increasing mortality rates and significantly burdening healthcare services.
In addition to heatwaves, Spain has seen a dramatic rise in droughts and wildfires. Prolonged periods of low rainfall, coupled with higher temperatures, create ideal conditions for drought. This, in turn, exacerbates the risk of wildfires, as dry vegetation becomes highly flammable.
Climate change is making extreme weather events, such as heatwa-
ves, droughts, and wildfires, more frequent and intense. However, while climate change is a pressing global issue, it’s crucial to discern between natural climate variability and human-induced climate change.
While natural factors like volcanic eruptions, changes in solar radiation, and ocean currents contribute to climate fluctuations, the current rapid warming trend is predominantly a result of human activities.
Man-made climate
change, largely fuelled by the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, is a significant contributor to the current global warming crisis.
While governments are pivotal in addressing climate change, individuals also bear responsibility. Personal actions, such as reducing energy consumption, supporting renewable energy, and making sustainable lifestyle choices, can collectively make a significant impact.
Stay cool
WITH thermometers soaring up to +40 degrees Celsius, summer in Spain can be challenging if you aren’t used to it. While most people move to Spain for its pleasant climate, newcomers may need time to adapt to the hot conditions.
The Euro Weekly News’ readers shared their top tips for surviving and enjoying the Spanish heat.
Marje Turner shared; “Been 40 years here; inside with air conditioning on, chilling, lots of water and ice.” Tracey Jarvis agreed; “We keep our summer duvet on through the summer, air conditioning on all night.”
But air conditioning isn’t the only option; “Hang a couple of ice packs o the back of your fan, that way it blows out cold air. Also, wrap a couple of ice packs in a pillowcase and put them in your bed,” Yvonne Walton shared her advice.
Water is a great source of refreshment; Dawn Gorman noted; “Drink at least two litres of water a day.” Anna Legge, however, highlighted that water isn’t the only way to feel recharged; “Drink white wine in the summer, red in the winter.”
With the change of the seasons, so comes the change of routines. Andy Solomons a rmed; “Get up with the daylight. The early and late are the best times to do the chores. Don’t even think about working outside in the heat of the
ACCORDING to the Ministry of Health, we should do the following:
• Drink liquids frequently, even if we don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugary drinks.
• Keep an eye on babies and toddlers, the elderly with certain conditions, and pregnant women.
• Stay in air conditioned places.
• Reduce physical activity and outdoor exercise.
• Use lightweight, breathable clothing.
• Never leave people or animals in closed vehicles.
• Call a doctor if you feel symptoms of heatstroke for more than an hour.
• Keep medicines in a cool place.
• Eat fruit and eat light.
The Euro Weekly News publishes more content both online at euroweeklynews. com and in its papers than any other English news publication in SPAIN. Even better, our news online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.
Droughts are becoming more frequent.
Trying to find shade in the heat.
Credit: Oleksandr P, Pexels
Marbella Castle works finally finished
THE walls of Marbella Castle have been fitted with new decorative lighting after a comprehensive restoration of this landmark of the Old Town. Stabilisation work needed to be carried out due to serious erosion, something typical considering its age.
Now, Marbella Council’s idea is to feature the brightly-lit castle walls as part of a new attraction to draw more tourists. The restoration was focused more on the north and east faces of the wall provoked by some serious and potentially dangerous deficiencies caused by the passage of time.
Now, the works are finished after a one-year delay and an overspend of 29 per cent, but the
new ornamental lighting makes a spectacular and much more inviting difference. Some residents
took to social media to suggest they do the same with the old tower on Cable beach.
Costa del Sol recycling more than ever
There were necessary works on the wall itself such as the masonry, mortar fillings, the repair of parts of the wall that have been crumbling, waterproofing, the restoration of the flooring, drainage and gargoyles.
IN the second quarter on 2024, Western Costa del Sol had reduced the amount of solid waste it collected and increased recyclable waste. This is the news reported by the Costa del Sol Environmental Complex run by Urbasa, who noted a drop of 7 per cent in regular rubbish compared to the previous year, indicating more of us are using the recycling containers. Marbella reduced the amount in their regular bins by 17 per cent, while Fuengirola maintained the same level as last year. Ad-
ded to a more conscientious public, Urbasa has increased its collections of recyclable waste, particularly light packaging, paper and cardboard and glass.
There has also been a noteworthy increase in the separating of light packaging such as plastic bottles, cans and cartons for placing in the yellow bins, a recorded increase of 100,000 tonnes more on last year.
Istan was the municipality that recycled most per inhabitant, followed by Ojen and Casares.
Beach camp for Marbella kids
MARBELLA City Council launches a new edition of the Inclusive Nautical Campus for children between seven and 16 years old on Cable beach.
The councillor for Sports, Lisandro Vieytes, has highlighted that the objective of the activity, which will take place in four free shifts per week between August 12 and September 6, is “to continue promoting doing sports through the summer months and make easier the work/life balance of parents in the summer season.”
There are a total offer of 96 places, 32 more than last year, and the registration period has just opened for parents in Marbella to sign their kids up. There will be paddle surf classes, big SUPPs, kayaking and surfing, as well as some entertainment, beach games and
workshops on environmental awareness, development and personal responsibility.
Twelve of the places will be reserved for children with special educational needs. The campus will be open from 10.00am to 2.00pm, with the possibility of opting for the morning beach activity from 8.45am and a flexible pick-up until 2.30pm. The shifts, meanwhile, will be spread from August 12 to 16, from August 19 to 23, from August 26 to 30 and from September 2 to 6.
Registration for the activity, part of the ‘Marbella Summer Sport’ programme, can be done from today at the marbella.es website. Those interested must be previously registered as users of the Sports Department, a procedure that can be done through the municipal electronic office.
Ronaldo training in Marbella
CRISTIANO RONALDO alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland have been seen training in Marbella.
The Arabian team AlNassr, the team Ronaldo currently belongs to, have been in Marbella for pre-season training.
Ronaldo and his team were at the Marbella Football Centre, a very important venue used by some of the top teams for pre-season training camps: La Liga, the Premier League, the Bundesliga and more choose Marbella to prepare.
On the list of teams using the Marbella grounds this year is AlNassr, the Saudi Arabian team in which Cristiano Ronaldo plays, as well as Fernando Hierro, originally from Velez-Marbella, is the sporting director for the
Saudi team.
Additionally, Norwegian football star Erling Haaland has been seen training there with his team and messing about on the sidelines in an amusing video posted by the Marbella club on social media.
Al-Nassr is currently on Malaga soil, testing themselves against teams in the second division.
Although they will not play against Malaga FC, they have played against Granada and Almeria’s Red and Whites in friendly matches.
With the arrival of Al-Nassr, Manchester City and their respective iconic players, Marbella Football Centre has once again firmly established itself as the pre-season training camp for top-level teams.
Kids can learn surf, paddle surf, kayaking and more.
Credit: Cristiano Ronaldo /fb
wayhomestudio, Freepik
World-class players Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland seen training in Malaga
Train strikes during Feria
PUBLIC transport users going to the Feria de Malaga might be in for some interruptions in the train service due to the upcoming strike. Workers in customer service, ticket sales and engineers in AVE train sheds are walking out in the middle of the Fair. This is what was announced by the union CGT on Thursday August 8.
The walkout is going ahead on August 19, 23, 24 and 25 at commuter train stations during the festivities. Also, workers in the AVE train sheds are planning strikes from August 19 to 22, and later from September 2 to 5 due to what the union claims are ‘sta shortages and a lack of spare parts’.
The union also criticised RENFE, the train operator, of being ‘indi e-
rent, having contempt for the workforce and showing absolute apathy’. They then went on to express what they dubbed a ‘regrettable situation’ brought about by ticket sta su ering burnout due to having been working extra because of the massive in ux of tourists, and multiple physical aggressions from some train users. “We cannot allow the risk to ticket sales workers for one minute more,” stated a CGT spokesperson.
In the case of the AVE engineers, their beef with the national train company is with what they see as a gradual privatisation of their positions and a lack of investment in spare parts, impeding the correct repair and maintenance of trains.
Fuengirola wants your ideas
RESIDENTS’ parking, putting a cap on the number of tourist apartments, and water di usors to cool down pedestrians. These are all proposals put forward by local people and that Fuengirola Council is attempting to make a reality.
It seems the local authority is taking note of what tax payers want with its participatory budgets plan. Councillor for Finance, Rosa Ana Bravo, explained that there are several projects already under way that came from suggestions local residents made.
Every year, Fuengirola Town Council launches participatory budgets so that residents can contribute their proposals and initiatives to include in the following year’s budget. Currently, seven proposals voted on by residents are being looked at for their possible implementation in 2025.
One of the most publicly voted for proposals was the creation of resident parking zones. This, alongside one for limiting tourist apartments is currently being studied and Councillor Bravo has said we can expect an announcement soon.
Other lower-budget ideas are already being worked on, such as the installation of nets on the sides of hand-
ball courts in La Loma Park because there is budget available this year, but that wouldn’t have been thought of if it hadn’t been for local residents putting forward the idea.
The proposal for water di usors in the street to cool people down will have to wait though. Current water restrictions due to the drought will not permit this one.
Malaga commuter trains and AVE high-speed trains strike action.
Fuengirola councillor, Rosa Ana Bravo with 2025 budget.
Credit: Ayuntamiento Fuengirola.
Possible water restrictions
HEAVY rains that fell on Andalucia last autumn allowed everyone in the Malaga Province to breathe a sigh of relief. Water usage restrictions were lifted so not to cause alarm in the tourist sector, especially in light of the forecasted 2024 boom. But drought kicked in again this year and now authorities are hurriedly looking for solutions.
The Malaga Provincial Council is allocating €6.2 million to emergency xes, while water companies are calling for ‘fair and responsible use’ by people and better drought management by organisations.
The President of the Malaga Provincial Council, Francisco Salado, explained on August 8 at the plenary meeting of the council, that they do “have projects for drought management, but faced with such a serious problem,” he explained, “the joint action of various administrations, is essential.” If not, he said, emergency measures could be introduced “in a matter of days.”
Drought - Emergency measures ‘could be introduced in matter of days’.
The urgent plenary meeting was recently held with Estepona, Marbella, Algarrobo, Velez-Malaga authorities on the alarming drop in water levels in reservoirs and the increased use of regenerated water for agriculture, golf courses, parks and gardens.
Water companies attribute the increased crisis in consumption to the boom in the tourist population this year and ask everyone to follow simple and responsible guidelines to not waste water.
“Therefore, and to avoid cuts,” Salado said “we ask citizens to only use water that is strictly necessary and to comply with all the usual recommendations. Simple measures that considerably help to reduce consumption.”
Rare otter births Benalmadena
SEA LIFE Benalmadena is celebrating the birth of otter quadruplets after success with their breeding programme.
Small-clawed Asian otter pups have just been born at the Sea Life centre in an unusual multiple birth. The family belong to a highly-protected breed and therefore this occurrence is important news on an international conservation scale.
Aquarists and biologists are keeping a close eye on the babies who are awaiting their baptism, and hoping to determine their sex, weight and length in the next few days. But they are said to be active and in good condition. Mum and dad, Kira and Leo, are so protective of their pups that experts at the centre cannot get near the babies to check them.
With a total body length of 73 to 96 cm, and a maximum weight of 5 kg, it is the smallest otter species in the world. The Asian small-clawed otter lives in riverine habitats, freshwater wetlands and manalso observed in family groups with up to 12 individuals. It is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, and is threatened by habi-
Asian small-clawed otter, resident at Sea Life Benalmadena.
Ice creams for zoo animals Marbella entrepreneur
BIOPARC, Fuengirola is looking to help its animals beat the extraordinary temperatures with some novel ideas, including ice cream.
Always keeping an eye on their animals’ well-being, especially during this ‘orange alert’ heatwave that we have been suffering on the Costa del Sol, the zookeepers are doing their utmost to keep the animals well hydrated, fed and as cool as possible in the face of an uncomfortably hot climate.
MARBELLA entrepre
neur Pancho Campo will the first Spaniard over 60 to do the HALO skydive, and he’s doing it for a good cause. On August 15, the Marbella businessman, plans to do the jump to raise awareness about school bullying.
According to a WHO report, one in six European teenagers suffers harassment on social networks.
The businessman will jump from an altitude of 25,000 feet (7.65 kilometers) on the outskirts of the Danish town of Herning in a type of parachute jump that he will perform is ca-
lled HALO (High-al titude low-opening).
This type of jump is considered one of the most dangerous, since when jumping from such an altitude, the parachutist needs to use sophisticated oxygen equipment to prevent hypoxia. During the descent he will face temperatures as low as -40º and will reach, in free fall, a speed close to 500 km/h.
“I want to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the mental health of future generations, helping them face their fears and manage their anxiety and stress,”
he said. Campo, whose own family has suffered bullying, believes that facing fears is ‘one of the first challenges that every young person must overcome to achieve their goals’.
According to recent WHO data, school bullying has remained stable since 2018, while cyber bullying has increased significant ly. According to their stu dies, 3 per cent of 15-yearold boys and girls in Spain claim to have suffered harassment at school at least two or three times a month.
There are new ice creams adapted to the needs of each species. For felines such as tigers or leopards, they enjoy huge ice lollies mixed with blood and
The ice lollies and ice creams, according to staff at the Bioparc, are not only a treat with all the right ingredients to keep them fit and healthy, but because they are a beneficial stimulation for the animal that activates its instincts. In the case of gorillas, chimpanzees, gibbons and lemurs, the kitchen at Bioparc Fuengirola prepares colourful ice creams and sorbets made from beetroot juice and spinach combined with pieces of other types of vegetables and fruit such as apples, carrots, tomatoes, bananas and watermelon.
And one of the most curious, the small ice cubes that the meerkats enjoy
Pancho Campo preparing for his HALO leap.
Credit: Bioparc, Fuengirola.
€1 billion from Costa del Sol beach business
Beach businesses on Costa del Sol create 8,000 and 10,000 new jobs.
Adam Woodward
BUSINESS owners along the Costa del Sol this summer have generated €1 billion in the last 12 months and created between 8,000 and 10,000 new jobs during the summer season.
According to Patricia Ojeda Paredes, chair of Association of Beach Business Owners (AEplayas) who said “In Malaga Province alone, there are some 600 establishments on the beaches, not only chiringuitos, restaurants, but also hammock rentals and paddle board hire. The summer season alone needs between 8,000 and 10,000 extra full-time employees.”
The AEplayas representative went on to estimate that between 20,000 and 25,000 jobs are created by other coas-
tal businesses, and she explains that the sector is having a great deal of difficulty finding workers, but even more so when it comes to skilled professionals who provide the quality of service expected in our region.
One of the issues, she says, is the harsh reality of the cost and difficulty in finding rental accommodation in the area. Added to that, the infrequency of public transport and the fact that the commuter trains do not go beyond Fuengirola. She went on to say that while there is a good relationship between small businesses and the administration, the sector could do with some simplification of bureaucratic procedures and continuity of policies when it comes to changes in local governments.
Benalmadena street vendors scuffle with police
FOUR Local Police officers were injured after a scuffle with street vendors in Benalmadena. During the fracas on the seafront promenade in Benalmadena on Friday August 9, four Local Police officers are said to have been injured while attempting to question one of the men. The incident took place on the promenade of Fuente de la Salud beach when police recognised one of the group as someone that had previously been arrested at an earlier date. The three other street salesmen then leaped to the man’s rescue trying to impede his arrest. In a statement, the police said that the men violently attacked the officers.
Multiple teams of police were dispatched to the scene to assist and the man, who is said to already have a criminal record for violence and resisting arrest, was finally detained.
As a result of the events, Benalma -
AVOIDING ARREST: Street vendors pack up.
dena Council has called an urgent meeting with both the National Police and the Local Police of Torremolinos to see what can be done about the street vendors. The council is already reinforcing police presence in the area in the light of other and increasing aggressive behaviour and the risk to pedestrians on the promenade. The injured police officers were released from hospital later that day.
New motorway Malaga to Ronda
FINALLY, after being shelved for 17 years, the new motorway for the Guardalhorce Valley is going to be built.
An alarming number of accidents on the existing A357, which has had the most serious accidents in the area, has been the impetus behind transforming this road into a four-laned motorway. With this new construction, the regional government is hoping to ease traffic on the Malaga-Campillos-Ronda axis.
The new section of motorway is hoped will boost the economies of Alto Guardalhorce and the Serranía de Ronda, as well as the Vega de Antequera, creating a fast track to popular tourist hot spots like el Caminito del Rey and Sierra de la Nieves. The transport of local livestock should feel the difference too.
Rocío Diáz, the minister for Pu-
New motorway planned for Guardalhorce Valley.
blic Works emphasised the Andalucian government’s determination to open up a direct road link between Ronda and Malaga City and once and for all deal with the problem of ‘Andalucía Vacia’, the small towns and villages emptying of population with each generation for lack of viable transport routes.
Big-spender tourists
MARBELLA, a destination famed for being a magnet to lovers of luxury, is having a boom from foreign visitors. US tourist numbers have increased 20 per cent to Marbella this year, putting them ahead of the Germans, and just below the Brits on the scale of largest foreign proportions of tourists.
Partly responsible for this new boom has been more frequent ights from the US to Malaga airport. And the council is preparing measures to welcome and incentivise more of this new
lucrative market.
Another of the more important segments is that of those visitors from the Arabian Peninsula, who have become dependable customers in tourism in Marbella, due to a large part the commerce agreements between the Costa del Sol’s second city and countries in the Middle East, and as well the multiple ight links.
These were the ndings of studies carried out by the Marbella City Council who are further exploring marketing strategies in these
countries. At a press conference, Marbella mayor, Angeles Muñoz, highlighted the importance of maintaining these lucrative customers and shared data that revealed the daily spending average of these tourists exceeded €600, and in some cases reached €1,000 to €1,500 per day, compared to Spanish tourists who averaged around €200 per day. The mayor also made reference to the positivity of the data demonstrating a sign of a full recovery since pandemic.
PUERTO BANUS: Hub for the biggest international spenders.
Credit; Alfredo Maiquez/Shutterstock.com
Growing pains
MANY of the growers selected to supply regulated cannabis to 10 municipalities in the Netherlands are struggling to meet the production standards set by authorities.
This issue was reported to the Dutch Parliament, updating them on the progress of an experiment to evaluate legalising recreational cannabis.
Cannabis is not legal in the Netherlands, though its use is tolerated in spe cific coffee shops.
Law enforcement typically ignores these activities as the country seeks a more permanent solution.
Ten Dutch growers were authorised to participate and expected to meet requirements for quantity, quality, and diversity of cannabis products to ensure a steady weekly supply to the coffee shops.
The pilot project, which started in mid-June, allows the sale of both regulated and tolerated cannabis in coffee shops across 10 municipalities and is set to run for three months.
However, the three growers who have started supplying the coffee shops have failed to meet these requirements.
Coffee shop owners have particularly complained about the quality and quantity of hash.
Five more licensed growers are set to begin deliveries in the first half of 2025, aiming to supply at least 570 kilogrammes of weed and 160 kilogrammes of hash per week.
The current growers’ inability to meet standards might extend the pilot phase, potentially delaying the next phase of the cannabis legalisation plan in the Netherlands.
Peta fights bullfighting
ANIMAL rights’ protesters interrupted Pope Francis’s first weekly audience following his month-long July break.
The two women from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) brandished ‘Bullfighting is a sin’ signs while wearing t-shirts bearing a ‘Stop blessing bullfighting’ slogan.
They managed to walk down the aisle of the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall before they were escorted out by one of the Vatican’s Swiss Guards and security officials.
This was Peta’s second protest in Rome, after two activists interrupted a service led by the Pope at the St Paul Outside the Walls basilica in January 2024.
On that occasion, two women displayed a banner with a photograph of Baltazar Enrique Porras Corrado, a Caracas (Ve-
nezuela) archbishop who has been identified as a bullfighting aficionado.
Peta’s website also reproached priests for blessing bullfighters before they entered the bullring, pointing out that bullfights are often held to celebrate a saint’s day and other important holy days.
“The Catholic Church can and must help end
this abuse by condemning bull torture in the name of religion,” the association declared.
As head of the Church, Francis has yet to comment publicly on bullfighting although in 1567 Pius V did just that, banning it as “better suited to demons rather than men” and “contrary to Christian piety and charity.”
Like lightning
A WILDFIRE in Greece spread ‘like lightning’, reported a fire brigade spokesperson Vassilis Vathrakogiannis; as families in and out of Athens continued to evacuate their homes.
More than 400 firefighters aided by 16 waterbombing planes and 13 helicopters fought the fire in Greece on Sunday, August 10, at approximately 3pm.
The fire spread to the Varnavas village, 35 km north of Athens, forcing at least 10 communities around Varnavas to evacuate, as people battled to save their homes. Residents of Marathon, 40km east of Athens were also evacuated, towards the beach town of Nea Marki.
The fire brigade stated; “The situation remains dangerous as the fire is spreading between residences”; flames continue to rise to 25 metres, engulfing the trees.
Greece’s Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kiklias reported that he had deployed emergency measures, including the army, police and volunteers to address the fires until August 15. He noted; “Extremely high temperatures and dangerous weather conditions will prevail. Half of Greece will be red.” Health officials urged people to stay indoors with “windows closed,” and limit their movements, as the smoke had significantly affected the air quality; at least eight people were hospitalised with respiratory problems.
Since May, hundreds of wildfires have been breaking out across Greece. This year, the country registered its hottest June and July in history and is forecasting August to break another shattering record.
Legalising cannabis.
Image: Summit Art Creations / Shutterstock.com
VATICAN PROTEST: Peta calls bullfighting ‘a sin’
Photo credit: FB People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta)
Fire spreads in Athens.
Hotel Boutique Cortijo del Marqués, Granada
RECENTLY awarded a Michelin Key, the Hotel Cortijo del Marques is a lush oasis of tranquillity and peace only 25 minutes from the beautiful city of Granada with its world-famous Alhambra palace and gardens.
It is an idyllic rural boutique hotel, offering uniquely designed facilities, double rooms and suites. It is surrounded by olive groves and wheat fields as well as stunning views of the Sierra Arana and the Sierra Nevada in the distance.
The historic 16th century country estate with its own church has been restored to perfection by mixing old world charm
We offer 20% discount for a stay of 3 nights or more in all our rooms and suites in August.
with modern comforts. The Cortijo del Marques is an owner-managed boutique hotel that prides in service.
Friendly and efficient staff will make this one of the best hotel experiences you have ever had. And feel the pure beauty and stillness of the Andalucian countryside, a perfect place for relaxation and reflection.
For sun lovers, there’s a swimming pool and comfortable sun loungers where you can take in the rays of the sun and
only, you can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, typical Spanish dishes and salads for lunch and in the evening the chef prepares a set gourmet menu.
enjoy the views of the surrounding serene countryside.
There are 15 suites and rooms to choose from at the Cortijo del Marques. All are decorated to a very high standard, maintaining many original features. Every room has access to WiFi, luxury Bassols bedding, towels and bathrobes and La Chinata natural olive oil body care products.
In the restaurant, open to hotel guests
Hotel Cortijo del Marqués, Exit 108, A-44, 18220 Albolote (Granada)
Tel: 958 340 077 or 678 334 884 • www.cortijodelmarques.com
On sale
THE 16-century castle built for Charles V Holy Roman Emperor located near Naples made it onto Italy’s list of 33 sites owned by the defence ministry to be sold in November 2024, as a way to combat public debt.
Turned into a prison in the 19th century, the castle is now used for the manufacture and storage of military explosives.
The news about the sale sparked FAI’s condemnation; Italy’s equivalent to the national trust, the FAI urged for the castle to be forwarded to UNESCO World Heritage for protection. “We should protect our cultural assets, they are vital,” said the architect Dante Specchia.
Specchia argued; “Depriving the public of a jewel like the Charles V castle should not be debatable.” Yet, Georgia Meloni’s government thinks otherwise.
Italy’s public debt now exceeds €2.8 trillion. In May this year, the IMF (International Monetary Fund) issued an official warning to Italy, emphasising the need for decisive fiscal reforms to address the escalating public debt. Since coming to power, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasised the importance of selling military properties which are reported to have a market value of €240 million. The Italian ministry noted that the properties would be sold under concession for 50 years and that it was looking for “proposals aimed at the redevelopment, enhancement, and economic management of its real estate assets.”
BANKSY’s latest artwork of a cat was removed hours after being unveiled, to the sound of booing crowds in Cricklewood, north-west London. At least 50 people gathered in Cricklewood, watching the artwork of the cat being dismantled by three men. The men stated that they were ‘hired’ by a ‘contracting company’ to take down the billboard for ‘safety reasons’.
The artwork portrayed a black cat stretching out its body on an empty billboard. Hours after Banksy confirmed that the image was his, crowds gathered from across London to see the Cricklewood cat, just as it was beginning to be dismantled.
The removal was briefly paused by the police who checked the contractors for approval to remove the artwork, after which they proceeded. A man who introduced himself as Marc, also attended the scene, presenting himself as the contractor.
He stated that they ini-
The wine list is another attraction; an eclectic selection of more than 200 wines from all over Spain as well as a pick of international favourites. Many wines are from outstanding years and have aged gracefully in the hotel’s wine cellar.
At the Hotel Cortijo del Marqués, experience the pure beauty and stillness of the Andalucian countryside, a perfect place to wind down and relax.
Street cat
tially planned to remove the artwork on Monday but decided to do it sooner in case someone ‘rips it down and leaves it unsafe’.
He said; “We’ll store it in our yard to see if anyone collects it but if not it’ll go in a skip. I’ve been told to
keep it careful.”
Chairwoman of the NorthWestTwo Residents Association Carol Reeman also commented; “This is Cricklewood, this is our Banksy. You can’t even enjoy it for the whole day before someone wanted to take it down.”
The Cricklewood cat.
Credit: Mikhail M, TripAdviser
Castel Capuano.
Your
Should people stop going on donkey rides in Spain?
should be stopped and expressed, “Yes, it should be stopped. Anything that puts animals in a degrading and dangerous situation should be banned.”
ACCORDING to the General Council of the College of Veterinarians of Spain’s ‘Guide to Good Practices for the Welfare of Equines in Public Service Horse-Drawn Carriages’, when there is a heat index of 33ºC, working equines may suffer ‘sunstroke, heat stroke, cramps, possibly due to prolonged exposure or physical activity’ and should therefore not be put to work.
In light of this, Mijas Town Hall has stipulated that donkey rides and carriages must not operate at certain times of the day when the temperature is showing as a ‘yellow weather warning’ or above.
However, is this enough to protect the donkeys, or are donkey rides a time-old tradition we must abandon?
We asked Euro Weekly News readers if people should stop going on donkey rides in Spain.
Mary Gregory said - “1,000 per cent yes!!!! It should be stopped immediately. There is no need for those poor donkeys to suffer anymore. It’s barbaric. There are many other ways to see the village than riding on the back of these poor, exhausted donkeys. It breaks my heart to see it. So cruel. I don’t visit Mijas anymore and for that reason alone. Please stop this now.”
Pam Joseph also agreed and said, “Yes, of course, it’s barbaric today. Some people have not learned anything.”
Shirley Morris also feels that it
However, Helen Chapman suggested that putting limits in place may be the way forward - she explained, “I think there should be limits: Not in the heat of the day and no overweight people. What will happen to the donkeys if the owners don’t have any income worries me. How will they afford to feed them and look after them? I think welfare checks should be done on the donkeys and, if possible, a lovely place for them to retire to.”
Deb Horses also agrees with Helen about introducing limits and had this to say. “No! But there should be limits like 1) rides between 8.00am and noon and in the late afternoon between 7 and 10.00pm. 2) weight limited to 60 kilos. 3) There are no rides when it is 35 degrees outside.”
Tricia Pamela feels that it comes down to how well the animal is looked after rather than blanket abolition“No if the animals are treated well, fed, watered and rested, why not?”
In conclusion, while many feel that it should be banned, others are a little more open to the idea of it continuing, with the proviso that limits are set to protect donkeys, particularly during hotter climes, and from carrying heavier passengers.
Supercell
A RARE ‘supercell’ tornado was captured on video in the Castellon Province of Spain, in the municipality of El Toro.
The Spanish Meteorological Agency reported the incident as a tornado, while local weather page MeteoStorms reported it as a ‘supercell’ tornado. The tornado appeared following the recent heatwave and extreme weather conditions, as the Castellon region ex-
perienced a drop in temperature by up to eight degrees Celsius.
The ‘supercell’ tornado resulted in torrential rain, hail and strong winds. The mayor of El Toro, Jose Arenes stated that “no major damage” was caused to the town.
A ‘supercell’ is a type of thunderstorm which provokes extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, large hailstones and strong winds.
EASYJET has announced a major change to the luggage allowance on its city break packages.
easyJet, Britain’s budget-friendly airline, has made a major change to its city break packages that could affect thousands of holidaymakers.
Previously, customers who purchased a city break package would receive a 23kg hold luggage allowance automatically added to their deal.
However, since August 7, this add-on has
A rare phenomenon, as few as 20 per cent of all supercell thunderstorms produce tornadoes.
Spotted by a ‘mesocyclone’, a deep and persistent rotating updraft, the ‘supercell’ thunderstorm lasts between two and four hours.
The origin of these conditions is the instability of air, accompanied by a particular type of changing wind direction at ranging altitudes in the atmosphere known as wind shear.
The fusion of changing wind directions and speeds then creates a horizontal rolling mo -
tion in the lower atmosphere. Although they can appear anywhere in the world, ‘supercell’ thunderstorms are more commonly found in arid climates, such as the US and southern parts of Europe. Spain’s increasing drought may have well contributed to the occurrence.
easyJet changes city break packages
been removed and instead replaced with the choice of a slightly reduced cost, or pay extra for hold luggage; which is checked in at the airport and stored in the cargo hold. Although this change will not affect the
Most decorated Spaniard
SAUL CRAVIOTTA has just made Spanish history at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Craviotta made history on Thursday, August 8, after winning the bronze medal in the men’s 500m Quadruple Kayak, alongside his teammates Arevalo, Cooper and Germade.
After the Spanish team won the bronze medal, the sixth medal for Craviotta, he broke not only his own record but the record of his entire home country.
With this me dal, Saul Cravio tta is now the most decorated Spanish athlete in Olympic Games history, surpassing the previous king David Cal with a total of six medals.
Saul Craviotta, originally from Lleida, Catalonia, Spain, has won a total of two gold, two silver and now two bronze in his Olympic career, performing in Beijing, London, Rio, Tokyo and now Paris.
The Spanish police officer and sprint kayaker also served as the flag bearer for his nation at the 2012 closing ceremony and 2020 opening ceremony.
After celebrating this
year’s win with the team, Saul said “I’m happy, but I’ve also made history thanks to my teammates.”
“I’d like to thank these three breasts who helped me win two of them,” Saul Craviotta stated, adding “Carlos Perez, who helped me win gold in Beijing 2008; and Cristian Toro in Rio 2016.”
The Spanish champion attributes his success to his teammates, saying “I am who I am thanks to these teammates as well.”
average flyer who purchases a flight-only ticket or other tour combos that still include the check-in luggage, it will have a major impact on the city break packages.
Customers purchasing a city break pac-
kage, and travelling with a large cabin bagwhich fits in the aeroplane’s overhead compartment - will need to pay an extra £5.99 and those with 23kg hold luggage will have to pay an extra £9.49.
easyJet has stated the move was “to make our packages even better with lower pricing,” however, some agents have said they hadn’t noticed a reduction in package prices, with one agent stating the package cost was £100 more than when check-in bags were added.
Credit: Raychel Sanner, Flickr
Supercell tornado.
Credit: Saul Craviotta /fb
Saul Craviotta has just made history, becoming the most decorated Spanish Olympic athlete.
INTERVIEW
Speaking European –Peter Riemenschneider
If you’re only here for travelling, you’re missing out,” shared Peter, who has for the past six years, been an official Spanish resident.
PETER and his wife left London for a more ‘balanced’ life in Valencia.
The couple chose Valen cia for its diversity; “It’s a compromise between living in a big city and a small town.”
As Peter and his wife moved, he began working on the launch of his software company as well as working with his wife in real estate. He noted that with “Spain having a better infrastructure than most countries,” business was going well.
Peter Riemenschneider.
Spanish soon became his fourth language. He admitted, however, that nowadays, that is not necessary; “Valencia has changed a lot within the past six years; today, English is heard everywhere.”
Yet, Peter insists on learning the lan-
guage to its core; “Living in any country, you have to familiarise yourself with the language and the culture. It’s not just words and grammar. It’s the context, the gestures, the national fables.”
He shared that although one can get by without Spanish, the authentic experience will be completely lacking.
Having grown so familiar with Spain, Peter advised anyone who considers moving to accept the changes and know that they come “with upsides and downsides,” depending on your perspective. “Of course it’s not the same as the US and the UK. That’s why we’ve moved here.”
Mysterious monoliths: omen or prank?
FIRST one appeared in Utah, then Romania, California, Spain, Wales and then Paraguay. Now, it is the turn of Las Vegas in the US.
For the last four years mystery metallic monoliths have been appearing in the strangest of places and setting the Internet on fire with weird and wonderful theories to where they come from.
Like something out of a Stanley Kubrick film, the latest in a series of eerie mirror-like blocks of metal was spotted in the desert just north of Las Vegas. Photos of the monolith were posted on X by local police who urged people to ‘be safe outdoors’.
The almost two metre tall and 33cm thick monolith is the latest in a series of identical objects to mysteriously pop up, and no one knows who
is responsible. The first appeared in Utah in 2020.
With the Red Rock Country background, it looked like something from Science Fiction. Officials in Utah never gave away the precise location of the monolith, but hundreds of fans of the occult swarmed there to search for it anyway.
Since then, multiple identical monoliths have appeared out of nowhe -
re too: There was one in the Romanian town of Piatra Neamt, which the local mayor attributed to ‘naughty aliens playing a prank’ and one in the ruins of a Spanish church in Catalonia. In fact, since 2020, there have been sightings of almost 250 around the world. The latest being in Las Vegas, Nevada. Is this an omen? Or a collective pranking like crop circles?
Empty cells
THERE is so little crime in the Netherlands that the prisons are becoming empty. A study by the European Journal of Criminology revealed that between 2005 and 2015, the Dutch inmate inhabitancy was nearly halved, resulting in the closure of more than 23 jails since 2014.
According to the Justice Ministry’s WODC Research and Documentation Centre, the number of prison sentences in the Netherlands fell from 42,000 in 2008 to 31,000 in 2018. With so few Dutch prisoners, some of the facilities had been leased to Norway and Belgium, while others have been reused for refugee housing, temporary asylums, and remodelled hotels.
One key factor contributing to the Nether-
lands’ shortage is the effective rehabilitation system, TBS. In 2018, 1,300 people were registered under a TBS ruling, granted a stay in treatment centres, at times following a jail term, with the psychological treatment of the issues which prompted the criminal offences.
A TBS psychologist Miriam van Driel also highlighted the power of rehabilitation; “The way you treat people - also in prison - makes a big difference in how they return to society. If you treat them like dogs, people will behave like dogs but if you treat them as human beings, they will behave like human beings.
“In the Dutch service we look at the individual,” said Roelof Van der Spoel, deputy governor of Norgerhaven in the Netherlands.
Monolith in Sa Conca, Catalonia.
Restrictions
PASSENGERS in the EU and the UK airports will be prohibited from carrying liquids of more than 100ml from September 1, 2024, reported ACI (Airports Council International).
The re-introduced regulation affects all European and UK airlines and prohibits all liquids including aerosol and gel containers. The only exceptions are prescribed medicines and baby food.
The European Commission reported that the restriction was re-introduced not as a security measure but as a ‘preventive’ measure until the scanner software is improved, “on the basis of information indicating that the performance thereof did not meet the standard for which it had been approved.”
Claimed to be underdeveloped, the scans were also reported as costly. Their purchase can cost almost eight times more than the regular machines and their maintenance costs are four times higher.
The devices have been employed by countries including Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Sweden, the UK and Malta.
ACI commented that; “those airports which have been early adopters of this new technology are being
heavily penalised both operationally and financially. They decided to deploy C3 scanners in good faith, based on the EU having greenlighted this equipment without any restriction attached.”
He emphasised the need
for improvement in the future; “We need to draw the lessons from this situation and make sure the EU certification system provides the necessary legal certainty and operational stability moving forward.”
First strokes
VOLUNTEERS in the Canary Islands are guiding thousands of African migrants as they face their traumas of the sea.
“I wouldn’t do it again. It’s very difficult, very dangerous. It’s a risk we took because we didn’t have a choice,” said Mamadou M Bathily, a 24-year-old trained IT specialist who arrived in Tenerife through Senegal.
This summer, Mamadou was guided by Proemaid volunteers to take his first strokes in the Tenerife waters. The volunteers work with groups of 35-40 people, with some spending up to 15 days at sea. “There are people who come with a terrible fear that you see when they get into the water holding your hand as if clinging to life,” said Jorge Balcazar, from Project Aqua.
Migration rights group, Walking Borders reported that nearly 5,000 migrants died at sea within just seven months this year.
A 17-year-old migrant, Famara, talked to the Press about the reasons why he took the boat from Gambia to Spain; “The time that my mother passed away, I thought about it, because my mother took care of my younger brothers and my sisters. Now my mother is not there, so I have to be the one taking care of them in the future. That made me come here.”
Out with the old
MARBELLA
BY NICOLE KING
I’VE worked out that I basically need 104 different outfits a year as a minimum if I’m not going to repeat clothes on my te levision shows.
Finding reasonably priced places to purchase said number of outfits is funda mental for me, which is why the charity shops are always at the top of my list. Some people find it hard to think of pur chasing second-hand items but, above all in Marbella, you can pick up things that haven’t ever been used, some with the labels still on! Many items are as good as new, often top brands and always really reasonable prices.
An added benefit is that the charity shops help us to revamp our wardrobe, as when we go, we can also take with us the clothes that we no longer wear to donate. If we have garments we haven’t worn for a year or two it’s unlikely that will miss them in the future and the charity shops benefit greatly from the items that we don’t really need. This doesn’t just apply to clothing, you can pick up
great fashion accessories, books, shoes, boots and in some stores, furniture and crockery etc, so consider this please when doing a clear out.
We have a great variety of charity shops on the Costa with ‘Joan’ by Cudeca and the Butterfly Children Charity being my favourites. I always walk out with at least one garment, which was the case today when I popped into ‘Joan’ in Calle Lagasca in San Pedro. I picked an evening dress tagged at €20 which then turned out to be on sale for just €10.
Well worth it in my opinion. What do you think?
Beach battles
THE decades-long battle of the beaches continues in Italy, as protesters demand freedom from private concessionaires; as laws remain unclear, both sides urge the government to step in.
“Most Italians don’t know they have the right to go to the beach for free,” said Manuela Salvi from the Mare Libero (Free Sea) organisation. “They are used to paying to go to the seaside. And if we don’t make our voices heard, the institutions will think we’re fine with
it.” Mare Libero has been flooding Italian beaches since 2019, trying to reclaim free space.
Today, Italy hosts more than 12,000 beach resorts with daily prices for two loungers and an umbrella averaging €30-35 and reaching as high as €700 in exclusive locations.
In a country with 7,500 km of coastline, sea access is severely limited; in northern Italy, Liguria, almost 70 per cent of the beaches are private, with several towns reaching 100 per cent privatisation.
Mare Libero member, Stefano Salvetti revealed the Punta dell’Olmo beach to the Press, highlighting it as a “symbol of our resistance against the privatisation of our few remaining beaches.” Margherita Welyam from Mare Libero shared; “I have spent almost every summer of my life in the same beach club and my mother has done the same for 25 years.”
Today, just 5 per cent of the beaches in Italy remain free.
Nicole’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
MOMENTS
Feeling in the pink.
Italian beach.
Airport security points.
Credit: TravelSafeBC, Flickr
Dark doings
POLICE swooped on a Dublin address on August 5, seizing cryptocurrency worth €6.5 million, together with a €120,000 watch and two vehicles that were worth €220,000. Two men aged 23 and 49, and a woman (32) were arrested on charges of assisting an illegal dark web as well as a money-laundering operation.
Slow down
A GARDAI operation detected 3,800 speeding vehicles on Irish roads during the recent Bank Holiday, including a Piltdown (Country Kilkenny) motorist driving at 186 kilometres per hour in a 100-kilometre zone. “It is disappointing that people travel at excessive speeds despite awareness campaigns,” police said.
EURO PRESS
DENMARK
Take note
DENMARK’S Nationalbanken central bank announced in 2023 that it was withdrawing 1,000-krone notes (€134) from circulation and they would no longer be legal tender after May 2025. Around 6.3 billion krone (€844.2 million) have still to be exchanged before they become worthless, Nationalbanken warned.
DANISH CURRENCY: Highdenomination 1,000 krone to be withdrawn.
Tougher rules
THE number of work permits rejected because the applicant’s salary was too low grew by almost 2,000 per cent, according to the Migration Agency. Regulations introduced in November 2023 raised the 13,000 krona (€1,131) a month threshold to 80 per cent of the average salary, calculated at 27,360 krona (€2,380).
No links
A FOURTH death at the Nothvolt plant was not connected to the gigafactory, a spokesperson said. Police investigating the baffling deaths of three employees at the plant located inside the Arctic Circle clarified that the woman who died in July lost her life due to “a tragic drowning accident” in her spare time.
GERMANY FRANCE
IRELAND FINLAND NORWAY SWEDEN
Empty cabs
TAXI-DRIVERS, particularly the 20,000 based in Paris, called on the Transport ministry to compensate for loss of earnings due to disruptions during the Olympics. Unions said the Games were ‘hugely disappointing’, with little demand for taxis after residents were encouraged to take their holidays or work from home.
Fast work
EGIS RAIL won a €1.38 billion contract to extend Morocco’s high speed railway network, although Spain’s Ineco put in a more competitive bid. Spanish sources claimed that France had been given the contract as President Emmanuel Macron’s ‘reward’ for recognising Morocco’s rights over the Western Sahara.
Plenty of fish
SEAFOOD exports during the first six months of 2024 rose to 13 billion krone (approximately €1.1 billion), an increase of 727 million krone (€61.2 million) on the same period last year thanks to a weakened krone. Norway exported to 111 countries, with key markets including Denmark, Poland and the Netherlands.
Royal brawl
MARIUS BORG HOIBY, 27, who is Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s eldest son from a previous relationship, was arrested in Oslo when police were called to a ‘disturbance’ in an Oslo apartment. He was held for 30 hours after having allegedly attacked ‘psychologically and physically’ a young woman in her 20s.
Watch it
MANY parents are buying a watch-phone as their child’s first mobile since the child-friendly device has no internet or social media access, but enables them to take calls, messages and photos. A recent survey found that 10 per cent of parents bought a watch phone in 2024, compared with 1 per cent some years ago.
Russia accuses
AFTER the Karelia (Russia) Supreme Court ruled that Finland committed genocide there between 1941-1944, Finnish Institute of International Affairs researcher Jyri Lavikainen said Russia was now portraying Finland as an enemy. The tactics were similar to those the Kremlin has also used with Ukraine, Lavikainen added.
Swanning around
TWO adult swans and five cygnets were moved on by police while they explored some of Limbach-Oberfrohna’s busiest streets. Although motorists carefully avoided the family which has nested by a pond on the outskirts of town, police said that ‘long-term’ relocation could be necessary if their forays continued.
Ancient art
A DANISH student on a dig at the Hohle Fels cave near Blaubeuren in southern Germany’s Danube valley recently unearthed a six-centimetre animal figurine created between 35,000 and 40,000 years ago. Its head was missing but experts who hailed it as the ‘find of the year’, believe it represents an otter.
PORTUGAL BELGIUM NETHERLANDS ITALY
Poor show
FAVOURABLE tax rates for super-rich foreign residents introduced in 2017 will be doubled as Giorgia Meloni’s government seeks to raise more revenue. Despite early hopes that they would benefit the economy, critics said the rich expats hardly invested in Italy, but had driven up property prices and the cost of living.
Time’s up
A 45-YEAR-OLD ‘serial pickpocket’ said to have offended on 150 occasions in Rome, Milan and Brescia over the last 20 years, was finally handed a 30-year prison term. Always pregnant when stealing in the past, she was regularly acquitted but recent changes in the law meant that she could now be imprisoned.
Risky climb
A MAN of 31 who climbed the Leixao da Gaivota sea stack in Ferragudo (Lagoa) called for help after realising that he could not descend the 30-metre column of rock. Although the Navy and local lifeboat stations went to his aid, he could only be reached by helicopter, which winched him to safety that evening.
No charge
THE government announced that tolls on Algarve’s A22 motorway and automatic toll collection roads are to be dropped on January 1, 2025. The new law, published in the Official Bulletin, stated that toll charges will be eliminated on ‘sections and subsections’ of interior motorways when there is no alternative route.
Hold tight
BRUSSELS’ public transport operator MIVB launched a campaign to remind bus, tram and metro passengers to hold on when the vehicles are in motion. Last year most of the 618 people who lost their balance and were injured after falling were messaging, watching or scrolling through their phones, MIVB said.
In the swim
BRUSSELS’ regional Environment Department rejected an appeal against plans to turn a lake in Anderlecht’s Neerpede Park into a wild swimming spot, claiming the peaceful area and its biodiversity would be endangered. Meanwhile, the State Council is studying a request to cancel the swimming lake’s planning permission.
Sett piece
THE Badger Working Group Utrecht in collaboration with the Gooi Foundation located 200 setts in an area east of the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal.They found that although the number of badgers remained fairly stable there were fewer in the east Utrecht area, possibly because more were killed on its busier roads.
Staring young
TWO balaclava-wearing boys aged 13 and 16, one of them with what looked like a firearm, were detained on August 5 after trying to hold up staff at the Gorinchem Nature Centre’s petting zoo. Director Jose Wienese said the zoo was a peaceful meeting place and “two naughty children” would not alter that.
Nudist chain
SOME 717 people participated in forming a nudist human chain on Torn Beach in Tarragona, Spain on August 4, according to a statement from the Catalan Naturism Club.
The human nudist chain was part of the Third Nudist Record of Catalonia, which took place on July 12 across 20 beaches in Catalonia. Nudists at the Torn Beach were unable to participate due to harsh weather, hence the event was postponed until August; the Cala Fonda beach also joined to make up for its previous absence.
“Nudism is not forbidden, but socially is not very well accepted,” commented Segimon Rovira, president of the Catalan Naturism Club Association. He explained that the event aimed to raise the maximum number of nudists and “beyond raising
awareness of nudism on Catalan beaches, was set “to promote and defend nudism.”
He mentioned the unprecedented decline in nudist culture; “Generally, across the world, society is becoming more and more conservative, and we see that many and many more people are having more problems in doing nudism on the beaches.”
Rovira linked this decline with the “proliferation of social networks,” as nudist beaches are “increasingly frequented by people who do not go naked,” refusing to respect the nudist values.
Mass tourism, pressure from real estate developers, and the omnipresence of cell phones have caused a decline in nudist culture; something which the community aims to change.
Brit vandalises Pompeii
A BRITISH man has landed himself in deep trouble after vandalising a Unesco World Heritage site.
The tourist carved the initials of his name and those of his daughters on the wall of one of Pompeiis’ most famous attractions.
As Italy continues to deal with foreign visitors leaving their mark, they could be setting a precedent as this tourist is facing a fine of over €1,000.
The 37-year-old Brit, from Derby, reportedly used a blunt object to carve the initials of himself and his children; JW LMW and MW, as well as the date 07/08/24.
The man engraved the initials on the frescoed wall of the ancient House of the Vestals, the previous residence of the Vestal virgins, located behind the Temple of Vesta.
In addition to his and his family’s initials, the foreigner also scribbled the word ‘Mylaw’ beside the entran-
ce of the ancient house.
Unfortunately for the holidayers, the father was caught, leading the Pompeii security staff to report him to the police and the public prosecutor’s office in the nearby town of Torre Annunziata, opening up an investigation into the matter.
According to local police, “after his arrest, he was mortified,” adding that his explanation for acting as such was “He said he wanted to leave something of himself there.”
Although “he apologised for what he did,” said the local police, “he will have to pay.”
More than 700 nudist form a human chain in Tarragona.
The House of the Vestals located in the Pompeii archeological park, where the tourist carved his initials.
Interesting times
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
OOPS, I see Mr Khan is reported as stating that ‘people didn’t feel safe in London anymore’. One observation I can bring to the mayor of London’s somewhat cloth ears is that people in most British cities all felt completely secure before the onslaught of mass immigration - mostly illegal. Just saying. Enough of that, I’ve really had it all up to the eyeballs.
Thank goodness I chose to live elsewhere all those years ago. Prior to Spain, where I’ve now resided for over 40 years, (hallelujah), I was, as many readers are aware, an eight-year resident of Saudi Arabia. They were interesting times because the Saudis had decided on a 15-year plan to utilise their vast oil riches on bringing their country into the 21st century. Subsequently, as long as you could duck and dive, the one thing they were able to wash all over you was the ol dough ray me! After I had been stopped by Crown Prince Fahad from importing shows (unveiled
women in my audiences!) I looked around for other lucrative means of balancing the budget.
One that proved to be the most rewarding (apart from an illegal video library) was the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables. Using my American contact at the vast military hospital in Jeddah, I was soon supplying both the hospital and others with goods on a daily basis. This, along with my band and association with the extremely popular amateur dramatic society, presented me with probably one of the most enjoyable times of my life, except of course for my days of glory with a wonderful family and a worldwide hit record - I digress. Periodically I would of course need to collect the money owed to me by the hospital.
On one particular day, smartly attired in my whites, I was negotiating one of the long empty passageways of the hospital en route to the cashier’s department. In the distance I suddenly espied what appeared to be a large very black gentleman bearing down on me from further along the corridor. As he drew nearer he began to grow very large indeed, not only
that, he also appeared somewhat familiar. Suddenly, when he was only a few feet in front of me, I realised to my absolute amazement and definite mental twitch, I was about to share some very lonely space with none other than Idi Amin, the man who had been responsible for the death and torture of thousands of his fellow countrymen, literally towering over me in that very solitary environment. Trying to appear totally at ease as he stopped right in front of me, I watched his enormous hand reach out and… patted me on the head. ‘Keep up de good work’ he grinned, flashing his large and very white gnashers. With that he brushed past me and was gone.
Apparently he was in exile in Saudi Arabia, his daughter had been involved in a car accident and was actually on a visit. I couldn’t help but wonder how many of his victims had witnessed the same outstretched hand before he put them to death? Doesn’t bear thinking about.
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.
New limit
LAUNCHING into August, Venice has imposed a limit on tourist groups, allowing up to 25 people in another attempt to combat mass tourism.
All tourist groups will now have to include a maximum of 25 people, with children up to two years of age excluded. The rule also doesn’t apply to visiting students or those on educational trips.
City officials stated that to protect “the peace of residents,” and ensure free movement, tourist guides would no longer be allowed to use loudspeakers. In the cases of non-compliance, fines ranging from €25 to €500 will be issued. The regulations cover the city centre and the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello.
Although initially meant to be implemented on June 1, the authorities had to postpone the rules until August 1 due to prior bookings by tour guides. The latest measure has been one of the continuing efforts of battling overcrowding in Venice, imposed after the alleged ‘fail’ of the Venice entry tax.
The costly campaign of the entry tax had been criticised by government opposition; “The ticket is a failure, as demonstrated by city data,” stated Giovanni Andrea Martini. In his claim, Martini referenced the data which showed that Venice received a record amount of tourists despite the entry tax charge.
Mass tourism in Venice.
Credit: thinktotbot, Flickr
The Little Cuba festival
LITTLE Cuba festival from August 15 to 17, in Torremolinos gives a little taste of Havana hosted by the local Cuban community.
More than 150 different nationalities live in Torremolinos and most of them have their cultures represented in one way or another. In terms of population, Cuba has more than its fair share of representatives. For that reason every year, the local Cuban association
in conjenction with Torremolinos Council present ‘Pequeña Cuba’, a gastro/cultural Caribbean event with live music and entertainment, dancers, craft stalls, Cuban food and Cuban drinks.
There will also be a parade with Cuban folk costumes, small exhibitions and workshops, sharing traditional and folkloric dances of Cuba. Being held at Oasis de la Playa on Bajondillo beach, the
Best spots to see Malaga fireworks
event receives hundreds of local and international visitors every year who come to celebrate and enjoy the best the Caribbean island has to offer.
For the best in Cuban food, Mojitos, Cuba Libres, Piña Coladas, Salsa, Mambo and Chachachá, head down to Bajondillo beach. The party runs from noon to midnight, Thursday August 15 to Saturday August 17.
ONE of the most anticipated occasions in Malaga is when 600 kilos of gunpowder go off on Friday August 16 at midnight, igniting the start of the Feria de Malaga. But many locals will have already earmarked their best vantage points to watch the bang and sparkle. Where can you find the best spots?
Surely the view of fireworks in the night sky will be enhanced from a higher vantage point, right? At 130 metres, the Gibralfaro viewpoint next to the Alcazaba of Malaga, you can take in a unique view of the Malaga evening sky with the fireworks reflected in the sea.
One of the things that Malaga really
does well is its diverse range of rooftop terraces, providing the opportunity to watch fireworks from a cool and breezy vantage point while sipping on a favourite summer beverage. There are numerous rooftop bar choices, but here are some to keep in mind:
• La Terraza de San Juan, Hotel Malaga Premium
• Hotel H10 Croma Malaga
• La Terraza de la Alcazaba
• Hotel Alcazaba Premium
• Terraza Lolita de Only YOU
All are open to non-guests, but pre-booking will be necessary on this night.
The fireworks display is scheduled for midnight on Friday August 16, and is expected to last for about 20 minutes while being synchronised with music.
Elevate
Your Experience at The Clubhouse with Exclusive New Promotions
THE Clubhouse by Sala is set to enhance the social scene in Puerto Banus with its new and exclusive promotions, perfect for those who enjoy a luxurious lifestyle.
Unwind during Happy Hour from Monday to Friday, between 5-7pm, with a 50 per cent discount on a variety of drinks. This offer includes handcrafted cocktails, La Sala house and premium wines as well as Cava, draught and bottled beers, and house spirits and mixers.
But that’s not all, as on Tuesdays, The Clubhouse by Sala invites you to ‘Relish the Taste’ by bringing you an exciting 2 for 1 pizza deal available
all day, providing a perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious pizzas with your mates.
Located just beneath La Sala Puerto Banus, The Clubhouse offers a sophisticated atmosphere with state-of-the-art entertainment, including Trackman golf simulators, Dartsee dartboards, and over 50 TVs with Zapping technology. This venue has already become a favourite spot for celebrities like Wayne Rooney and Conor McGregor to name but a few. EAT . DRINK . WATCH . PLAY Find out more by contacting reser vations@LaSalaBanus.com or calling 952 814 145.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Aitormmfoto, Shutterstock
Credit: Kamira, Shutterstock
Top 3 must-see acts Canela Party
CANELA PARTY, a four-day bonanza of Indie and Noise with a plethora live acts to see. Here’s the Euro Weekly News’s top three unmissable acts.
Thursday August 22, topping the bill, from Brooklyn, Big Thief. They may have folksy roots, but this band is far from being just another sleepy mediocrity. Their 2016 ‘Masterpiece’ LP was just that, a masterpiece. It was almost as though the 90s Grunge scene had been born today.
On Friday 23, Metz. A stalwart on my AirPods, the prize-winning Canadian Noise/Punk outfit on the iconic Sub Pop label mixes lucid lyrics
with roaring Superfuzz pedals. Basically, anyone who’s worked with the great Steve Albini, as Metz have, are worth the time of any genuine Rock lover. This may be a chance in a lifetime opportunity to see a truly sublime punk rock on stage in Spain.
Then there is Saturday 24’s bestuntil-last choice: Punk-Pop at it’s finest. North Carolina’s Superchunk. Think, Hüsker Dü, Sonic Youth, Minutemen, and Buzzcocks all rolled into one. A genuinely amazing way to finish the noisiest weekend on the Costa del Sol all year.
Canela Party runs from August 21 until 24 at Av. del Real, Torremolinos There are a variety of ticket options starting at €55.
Doggie Disco in aid of ADANA
TALK RADIO Europe’s Selina MacKenzie has organised a Doggie Disco event for like-minded people to raise money for the ADANA dog rescue charity.
The Doggie Disco is a party for both dogs and their humans to have a lot of fun together while contributing to a great cause. Hosted by Natalie and Matt at the Victoria and Albert Bar, El Pilar Buenavista on Friday September 20, the event hopes to beat last year’s record of €2,000. This is going to be the fourth year of the Doggie Disco and it’s already looking like it will be a great success with tickets selling like hot cakes.
ADANA (Association for the Rights
of Abandoned Animals) is a charitable organisation in Estepona on the Costa del Sol run entirely by volunteers. Their aim is to promote love and affection for dogs, to provide facilities for the shelter and care of abandoned, sick and injured dogs, while seeking new homes for them and to assist the local authorities with such animals. ADANA never has a healthy dog put down.
Tickets are limited, but they can be obtained by contacting Selina through the Facebook group Animal Talk by Selina. They’re €5 each for dogs and €10 for accompanying humans. The Doggie Disco takes place on September 20 from 6pm until 8.30pm and all proceeds go to ADANA.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Graeme J Baty
Credit: Jagodka, Shutterstock
Foodtrucks Xperience
FOODTRUCKS serving the very best in international street food will come together during the weekend of August 14 to the 18 in Pinar de Elviria.
This culinary event, also known as Foodtrucks Xperience, brings together international cuisine from nine chefs in nine food trucks, with some, local and others coming from far off places to serve us something delicious this weekend.
The event features the Chicken Truck, delicious big beefy burgers, and the familiar home-made deep fried chicken that you adore. Itares shows off its stone-baked pizzas, Rostok serves enormous German sausages, Wok n Roll provides Asian and Middle-Eastern options (both meat and vegetarian), The Trick Truck offers Burritos, crepes, and
sandwiches, La Bohemia has Mexican treats, La Tribu serves gourmet burgers, La Arepita offers lovely and healthy arepas, and La Porteña has authentic Argentinian empanadas where the wait can be long and chaotic, but if you’re not in a hurry, the ‘parillada’ is enormous. To wash it all down, there are plenty of beer tents with craft ales and some of the best beers from around the world.
On Thursday night, August 15, Gary Scott will be on hand providing the musical entertainment with his skilful classic rock n’ roll guitar grooves. More performers are yet to be announced.
Foodtrucks Xperience is on from Wednesday August 14 to Sunday August 18 at the Pinar de Elviria. There will be a KidsZone, craft stalls, and fairground rides for children.
Swing For Five
Adam Woodward
TORREMOLINOS Summer Jazz Festival concludes on Monday August 19 with Swing For Five playing the coolest cinema influenced Jazz for the steamiest of climatic conditions.
Traditional Rebirth of Cool-age Jazz be-bop, Swing For Five is a quintet made up of renowned and respected musical professionals whose setlist is seasoned with sprinklings of wry-smiling hat-tips and classic movie references. Their members, all well-known and well-respected in the business, have played all the major festivals around the country. But one of their crowning glories has not been seeking personal adulation, but that of playing for children - children, dealing in each one with the different aspects of basic
musical knowledge.
The simple and minimal instrumentation makes for an accessibility to classic Jazz sounds for everyone, and given the heatwave we are currently facing, I could not think of a better way to cope with the soaring temperatures than an open-air free Jazz concert with a sea breeze.
Due to its simple instrumentation, Swing For Five is a band with minimal infrastructure and therefore great mobility, which, combined with the great quality of its soloists, manages to arouse the interest of both serious fans and total laypeople.
As usual, the concert is in the Parque de la Batería on Monday August 19 at 9pm. And the entrance is completely free.
Let your creativity shine in ceramic
IF you are feeling creative and are looking for something unique to complete your dinner set, this ceramics painting workshop might be just the thing.
At the Studio Cerámica workshop in Estepona,
The Garden Bar
Open 7 days a week
10.00am – 8.00pm
Great bar food
Menu all day
Cocktails
visitors can paint and decorate their own crockery. There is no membership required, no experience necessary, just pop in.
The session begins by choosing from a broad range of crockery or sets of plates, cups, ceramic boxes, fruit bowls, jugs, etc at reasonable prices which include the cost of the painting materials and firing. Once selected, visitors can paint the items, with help if required. After the piece has dried and been fired, the finished artworks can be picked up in four to six days.
It’s not usually necessary to reserve a table here, but it is recommended, especially for groups of four or more. The owners say to feel free to bring drinks or snacks. All ages are welcome and bookings can be made via WhatsApp on 646 502
The workshop is at Calle Bermudez 31, in Estepona’s old town.
Copycat pub hit in Benalmadena
BRITISH pub chain Wetherspoons has its own tribute in Benalmadena, and it’s just been named second best bar in the town by TripAdvisor. Weatherspains, in front of Playa Santa Ana, has become one of the most popular hot-spots in town because of its great service, reasonably-priced pints and traditional pub food.
The pub has amassed fans, both British and Spanish, and TripAdvisor awarded Weatherspains its Travellers’ Choice prize in 2023 and the number 2 slot of best bars out of 119 in their ranking. Among the reviews of satisfied customers on the popular travel website, the price of drinks and the
quality of the traditional Mexican dishes and British pub fare, plus how friendly the staff are resonated highly with the customers.
Generous portions of British pub grub on offer include a traditional English breakfast, scampi and chips, sausage and mash and gammon and chips, while on the Mexican menu there’s Quesadillas, burritos and tacos, all at inviting prices. As well as boasting one of the best priced pints in town, Weatherspains offers cocktails for €6.
CEO of Wetherspoons, James Watt, was not put out by the copycat Benalmadena pub, saying on Instagram “It’s not every day someone pays you the compliment of copying what you do.”
Adam Woodward
Rocas del Mar, Urb. El Juncal Sur, 34, km198, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga
QUEEN FOREVER, a tribute to the legendary and much loved British band are to play Estepona August 17 as part of their We Will Rock You tour.
Recalling the highlights of Queen’s career, including Live Aid, Montreal, Live at Wembley, Queen Forever sound exactly like Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon on stage once again. Formed in 2015, putting meticulous detail in their costumes, staging and musical arrangements, this is by far the
Queen Forever
finest homage to one of rock history’s most iconic bands.
Ever since Queen Forever’s first appearance on the talent show ‘Got Talent Spain’, the band has become a benchmark in the world of tribute performers, filling concert venues up and down the country. Over half a million fans have watched in awe seeing what Tolo Sanders (Freddie Mercury), Adrián Pujadas (Brian May), Haritz Caperochipi (Roger Taylor), Juanjo Amengual (John Deacon) and Sebastián Raimundo (Spike Edney) are capable of. In
the words of Peter Freestone (Mercury’s Personal Assistant): ‘These guys have taken me back 40 years. Musically they are incredible!’
If you are a Queen lover and you didn’t get to see them the first time round, Queen Forever is, without a doubt, the best option to remember the strength and passion of the legendary British band. Simply said, the best Queen since Queen. Queen Forever play TAF (Teatro Auditorio Felipe IV), Estepona on August 17. Ticket prices start at €22.40 and are available from the TAF website.
Alan Boardman’s walking tours for charity
ALAN BOARDMAN is offering his insight and extensive knowledge of Mijas Pueblo as a walking tour guide, and it’s all for charity.
Alan is taking small groups on an English-speaking tour of the historic white village of Mijas, sharing his extensive knowledge of the local culture and history on a fun and easy-going walking tour. This laid-back three-hour stroll throu-
gh the streets of Mijas to what Alan says is a way ‘to get under the obvious and take you into the real Mijas.’
The walking tours are limited to 12 people at a time and run all year round with the exceptions of July, August and January, but places get booked up early, and currently he is taking reservations for the last ones before November. The cost is a voluntary amount suggested as €5
minimum, and all proceeds go to charity. The current benefactor being the local equine charity SEARCH. So far Alan has raised over €19,000 for charity through his fun and fascination Mijas walking tours.
To guarantee your place on the tour, send a WhatsApp to Alan on 610 522 605. There are still very limited places on September 5, 9, 18 and 24, and for October 30.
Adam Woodward
Credit: queenforeverInstagram
Credit: Michael Gaylard flickr
Will Shackleton Band
BLUESY Country star, Will Shackleton plays the Clarence Jazz Club, Torremolimos on Friday August 16. The London musician, combines a variety of musical styles including Blues, Rock, and Country to create his unique original sound. Alongside his successful solo music career, Will has also thrived as a session guitarist, working with acclaimed musicians. His talent in music resulted in him recording live sessions at the famous Abbey Road Studios and heading a five-year artist residency at London’s legendary Ron-
nie Scott’s Jazz Club.
During the beginning of 2023, Will set off on a thrilling journey by car from London to stunning Andalucia, where he sought solace and found the motivation he was searching for in the grand Sierra Nevada mountains. For a period of two months, he dedicated himself to creating music, writing and recording fresh tracks that showcase his bond with nature.
Will Shackleton is back in the Costa del Sol now to give a set of thrilling concerts here and throughout Andalucia, with the
support of a skilled team of local musicians. This group consists of Cote Calmet playing drums, Tommy Moore on bass, and Jon Sande on keyboards and piano. Together, they vow to elevate the enchantment of Will’s music and charm crowds throughout the entire region. Make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy this one-of-akind musical event!
As with most Clarence Jazz Club events, there are two concerts at 8.30pm and 10.30pm. Tickets start at €11.
Torcal by light of the Moon
A GUIDED tour of the Torcal of Antequera unveils a halo of intense mystery, and reveals ghostly whispers in the night with each step. The local guide explains how and why the Torcal of Antequera is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Walkers are taken on an unmarked trail, (guide required) during the full moon to appreciate never before seen beauty that can only be appreciated after sundown near the
town of Antequera. The visit ends, after having coincided with the Ammonite Route, back at the meeting point. The circular trail is about 4km over uneven and rocky areas, and while it is not recommended for those with mobility issues, or very sedentary lifestyles, it is an interesting way to get in some evening exercise. Not recommended for children under six.
The walk takes about three hours in total and starts off just before sunset, and returns back to
base late at night. The guide makes several stops along the route to talk about the landscape (geology, flora, fauna, history the people in El Torcal). At one of these stops, there will be time for a light picnic. Bookings cost €13.50, children under 12 €11. Times vary, but tend to be around 8.15pm to 11:30pm in August. There are special rates for groups of 15 or more people. More info is available via email: reservas@ torcaldeantequera.com The next full moon is from August 16 to 19.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Agencia de Medio Ambiente Andalucia
Credit: Instagram @mrwillshackleton
Off-roading in a buggy around Ronda
Adam Woodward
OFF-ROADING buggy experience along this Country Route, the shortest, but no less spectacular, ideal for those beginners who want to have a first contact with one of these all-terrain buggies in a spectacular setting. An expertly guided trip of 12 km in which for 30-35 minutes you are taken to see Ronda from majestic viewpoints with very exclusive perspectives at a height of more than 1,050 metres.
The stops made along the way are on private land owned by the tour operators, and therefore the views are mostly exclusive to this tour.
About 85 per cent is completely off-road, and the tour lasts 35 to 40 minutes. During the summer, the centre is open from 10am.
Drivers need to be at least 25 years old with a B Driving licence. Prices for a two-seater buggy are €100, and €115 for a four-seater, and the price is based on one driver plus an extra €15 per passenger.
For the slightly more adventurous, the Tajo River Route reveals more privileged sights. This beautiful trip lasts around 90 minutes where you see the wonder of nature from exclusive points, including the Puente Nuevo from a different, more unusual perspective, as well as stunning views from strategic points very few get to appreciate. Soft drinks and coffee are included in a stop-off in the ancient town of Tajo.
Bookings can be made by calling Sierra Aventura Ronda on 679 283 521 or 692 673 279.
Keely Hodgkinson celebrates in Puerto Banus
KEELY HODGKINSON has been spotted on the Costa del Sol following her stunning win in Paris.
The 22-year-old is in Marbella swapping gold medal for the Golden Mile just days after becoming only the third British woman to win the 800m running event at the Olympics.
Invited by Sala Lifestyle, part of the La Sala Group, to go on a luxury boat ride with her family and try a little jet skiing, the boat was decorated with a
specially prepared banner reading ‘Congratulations on your gold medal Keely Hodgkinson’.
The 22-year-old middle-distance runner who clinched gold at the Paris Olympics began her celebrations in the Pigale district of Paris, home of the Moulin Rouge, and decided to continue the party in swanky Puerto Banus. This is a well-earned rest for Hodgkinson after she finished in a time of one minute 56.72 seconds, 0.43 seconds
ahead of Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma, to win gold for Team GB. When cornered by the press, she said “This year you could see how I’ve grown as an athlete, first time I’ve been the favourite going into a championship. I’ve been determined for it to be that way.”
Seen donning luxury brand clothing and accessories apt for Puerto Banus, she has reportedly just bagged sponsorship deals with Rimmel London, Nike and Omega.
Credit: sierraventuraronda.com
Keely Hodgkinson spotted at The Clubhouse by La Sala.
Credit: La Sala, Puerto Banús Instagram
WOK COSTA DEL SOL
WOK Asian, Sushi & Grill Restaurant in La Cala de Mijas has solidified its reputation as a premier dining destination on the Costa del Sol. Following a recent refurbishment, this restaurant is ready to impress with a refreshed menu and a sleek, modern interior. Owners Lee and Neily have transformed WOK into a must-visit spot for anyone seeking authentic Asian cuisine, an excellent grill selection, and a delightful dining experience.
Gone are the days of buffet-style dining; WOK now offers a fully cookedto-order menu, emphasising fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The extensive menu caters to all tastes, featuring traditional Asian dishes, sushi, and a newly introduced Grill section that showcases a variety of meats,
including chicken, fish, and steaks. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or prefer something more familiar, WOK’s menu has something to please everyone. Even the youngest diners are considered, with a dedicated kids’ menu that’s sure to satisfy.
In addition to its culinary offerings, WOK boasts an impressive wine collection, displayed in a beautiful glass cellar. The selection includes a range of carefully chosen wines and Champagnes, with options to suit every budget. For those who enjoy a cocktail, WOK’s bar offers a variety of choices, with prices starting at just €10.00. The overall dining experience is designed to be both exceptional and affordable, making it a perfect spot for families, friends, and large groups.
WOK COSTA DEL SOL
WOK’s large terrace is ideal for social gatherings, especially for golfing groups who will appreciate the spacious outdoor seating. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9.00am to midnight, the restaurant has also introduced a breakfast menu that’s perfect for starting your day. Whether you’re in the mood for a Full English, a Norwegian twist, or an Italian-inspired breakfast, WOK’s morning offerings are as delightful as their lunch and dinner options.
Entertainment is now a regular feature at WOK, with live performances on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, enhancing the lively and welcoming atmosphere. With ample parking and a location just a short walk from the centre of La Cala, WOK is both con-
venient and accessible. The restaurant also offers takeaway services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious food wherever you are.
In a place like La Cala de Mijas, where the culinary scene is ever-expanding, WOK stands out not just for its excellent food, but for the warm hospitality of its hosts, Lee and Neily. Since its opening in 2011, WOK has become a beloved institution, and with its recent updates, it’s set to remain a top choice for years to come. Don’t miss out - make a reservation and experience WOK for yourself.
Wok Asian Restaurant are currently looking for people to join their Team. They are looking for Chefs, Kitchen hands, Waiting staff, enquire within.
COSTA FOOD TOURS
The Undisputed King Of Spanish Whites
VERDEJO, you’ve heard it everywhere in Spain, and quite unsurprisingly as it dominates over 40 per cent of Spanish white wine sales, and 90 per cent of production in its homeland of Rueda in northwest Spain.
This area with the largest number of verdejo plantings in the world, hosts some centuries old vineyards and a grape that was brought to the region well over 1,000 years ago, but lost favour during the early 1900s when oxidative sherry-like wine became in fashion.
Fortunately, verdejo was saved in the 1970s.
So what does it taste like and what about food?
Well, verdejo is probably one of the most food-friendly wines on the planet. Its complexity and variety of styles give you a host of options.
A good wine made from verdejo will
be brimming with fruit flavours that are perfect with meaty grilled fish such as bacalao (cod) or rodaballo (turbot), plain or citrus chicken dishes, roast pork or a good manchego.
And increasingly, winemakers in Rueda are experimenting with things like barrel fermenting which add touches of oak and vanilla to those fresh fruit flavours that are typical of verdejo.
These are great with creamy dishes such as pasta carbonara, fish in cream sauce and an absolute delight with the Spanish classic of chicken in almond sauce.
But in general, these are fresh, bright, crisp wines that are perfect for everyday drinking. So if you’re looking for a really refreshing, and very affordable crisp white wine, then verdejo is the perfect option.
Enjoy!
THE Orchidarium botanical garden in Estepona is celebrating a free theatre festival with music, comedy and circus acts from Thursday August 15 until Saturday 17. Organised by Estepona Town Hall, the free programme of events begins on August 15
with the comedy play ‘Varietés’, by the Municipal Theatre Group, and continues on Friday 16 with the musical play ‘Mouling Legend’ which also performs musical dance and songs from the movie Moulin Rouge, and then, the comic theatre of ‘La Llamada’
Musical Tarzan, Benadalid in Ronda
Adam Woodward
RESIDENTS of Benadalid are preparing a new family-orientated musical tribute. On this occasion, they are performing the musical ‘Tarzan’, taking place Saturday, August 17, starting at 10.30pm in Plaza Beni al Jali.
According to organiser, Jesús Villanueva, of the Benadalid Town Council, the idea is to put on a musical tribute in the town every summer, something that has been going on every summer for that last 10 years. Previous years, residents
by Black Sheep, on Saturday August 17.
Varietés : a ‘lyric-tango-circus’, which mixes music, dance and comedy, is a comedic tribute to all those who have dedicated their lives to the magic of the stage.
Mouling Legend, ba-
Eat In Or Take Away
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
have performed works such as ‘Grease’, ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘The Lion King’, ‘Aladdin’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’
Every August, residents of all ages get involved in one way or another in the project, whether as actors, choreographers, costume designers, stage designers or backstage. Taking into account that there are less than 250 people registered living in Benadalid, it turns out that a very high percentage of the population collaborates in the initiative.
All this also contributes
sed on the movie Moulin Rouge, takes the chaotic Cancan inspired plot and songs to the botanical Garden stage.
La Llamada (The Call) a comedic performance about a couple of young teenagers getting up to mischief at a camp organised by their local pari-
to locals gelling into a large family with a common goal. Now forming part of the cultural landscape of the Ronda mountains, attendance to the theatre productions has grown exponentially, drawing in audiences from all over to see the shows.
‘Tarzan’ is just one of five nights of home-made entertainment being put on at the Bajo la Luna festival which began on Tuesday August 13. Other shows include circus performances, children’s theatre, puppet shows, exhibitions, concerts and a craft market.
sh. The missionaries in charge of the place want to guide them towards a holy path, but sometimes even the strongest faith can falter.
All performances are completely free of charge and start at 10pm at the Orchidarium, Estepona.
Traditional Fish & Chips, Pies & Much More,
Jardin Botanico, La Cala de Mijas
Credit: Ayuntamiento Benadalid.
Punk rock movie soundtracks from Top Secret
LOUIE LOUIE, Estepona doesn’t stop bringing the best in live music. This time, everyone’s favourite Top Secret.
The band, Top Secret handle any gathering; they uplift any party, disrupt any
Iconic photographs Benalmadena
THE Benalmadena Costa Exhibition Centre is hosting the exhibition ‘Momentos Decisivos - Photography in the Julián Castilla Collection’, an exhibition in which the public can immerse themselves in the work of iconic photographers such as Alfred Stieglitz and Man Ray, who share a spotlight with artists of our time.
Almost 100 works make up the exhibition, which is being shown for the first time in the Malaga Province, and will remain open to the public until September 22, 2024. The selection includes legendary works by world-famous artists such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, André Kertész, Robert Doisneau, Elliot Erwitt, Horst P Horst, Alberto Korda, Carlos Saura, Annie Leibovitz and Willian
quiet romantic evening, and get everyone dancing with their dynamic and incredibly engaging live performances. No matter where they go, you can be sure it will be exciting and noisy. This three-piece performs hits from international clas-
sics and movie soundtracks, combining hard rock and punk with well-known pop songs to make everyone grin from ear to ear. The wish to sing along is strong with this lot.
As usual on Saturdays at
Klein, and including images by contemporary artists such as Chema Madoz and Pablo Genovés.
One example of the origin of some of these works is the mythical photograph ‘The Kiss’, by Robert Doisneau, from what was once part of Elton John’s private collection.
Throughout August, the exhibition Centre is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 1.30pm, and again from 6pm to 8pm. Sunday opening hours are 10am to 2pm. Entrance is free.
Comedy open-mic, Marbella
Adam Woodward
AMANS World Comedy Open-Mic is back on Thursday August 22 for some more belly laughs and some groans too.
Following the enormous success of their July show, the open-mic, organised and hosted by Lucy Amans, the Costa del Sol’s number one comedy mover and shaker, offers the spotlight to new and up-and-coming funny people in the Malaga Province the chance to showcase their routines. There will be some future stars on stage this night as more and more are getting the urge to share their hilarious stories.
The jam-packed proceedings will be hosted and presented by local UK expat, Lucy Amans who escaped to Gibraltar, and soon after to Estepona, where she found the funny side of life and broke into stand-up comedy.
Lucy runs ‘Stand-Up Comedy Spain’, the leading and most prolific regular comedy night on the coast.
Louie Louie, the Top Secret guys are on stage at midnight after resident duo, The KP Band, the most talented and experienced rock covers artists on the Costa del Sol. Saturday night, August 17 at Av. Luis Braille, Estepona.
Amans World Comedy Open-Mic is on at the La Clave Bailes Latinos, 12 Calle Camilo José Cela, 11, Marbella on Thur sday August 22 at 8.30pm. Entry is free, but donations will be welcome at the end of the night.
The best Indian
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Experience the Orange House Boutique Hotel Rooftop Terrace in La Cala de Mijas
DISCOVER the Orange Boutique Hotel’s Rooftop Terrace, the ultimate spot in La Cala de Mijas for unwinding and enjoying breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for a serene start to your day with an early morning coffee and croissant or a relaxed atmosphere for pre-dinner or after-dinner drinks, this terrace provides the perfect setting.
The stunning panoramic views make it a photographer’s dream, offering an ideal backdrop for capturing memorable moments. As a smoke-free and vape-free environment, the terrace ensures a fresh and pleasant atmosphere for all visitors.
With the current high temperatures, the Rooftop Terrace is a cool retreat where you can enjoy your beverages while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. The gentle morning breeze com-
plements your breakfast, making it an inviting space to begin your day.
The Rooftop Bar at the Orange Boutique Hotel offers a curated cocktail menu featuring premium ingredients, complemented by a full bar with top-shelf vodka, gin, Scotch, and brandy. Savour exquisite wines selected to suit every palate, all while enjoying breathtaking views - a perfect setting for any occasion.
Open daily to non-guests, the Orange Boutique Hotel’s Rooftop Terrace welcomes everyone to experience its charm. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this hidden gem promises not to disappoint. So, next time you’re in La Cala de Mijas, make sure to pop in and savour the delightful ambiance of the Rooftop Terrace. Your perfect photo opportunity and a memorable experience await.
Calle Tolox 3, La Cala de Mijas 29649 951 744 965 | 633 604 004
Up and away over Antequera
A SPECTACULARLY different day out in Antequera exploring the beauty of the Andalucian countryside, from a hot-air balloon.
A hot air balloon ride over Antequera, in the
picturesque province of Malaga, is an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate the scenic beauty of this fascinating town from a unique perspective. Lasting approximately one to 1.5 hours, this hot-air balloon flight is an exciting adventure that combines serenity and the thrill of flying. Take in the views of the mountains of the Malaga region, chill out in the almost silent, clean fresh air as the pilot points out landmarks from an angle you will never have seen before. On landing, you’ll be given breakfast of toast and Cava, and a souvenir video.
As well as breakfast, included in the price are water on board, a flying hat, your ‘Flight Diploma’ and insurance. Prices for this unique adventure by Globotur start at €185 per person, or €355 for two. Flights are dependent on weather conditions.
Ham cutting contest
AUGUST 9 in Estepona saw the ninth World Ham Competition start up with thousands of visitors tasting the best in Spanish ham on the promenade.
The mayor of Estepona and the head of ‘Sabor a Malaga’ inaugurated the ‘Popi’ World Ham Competition, organised by the Estepona Town Council with the professional cutter, José María Téllez, also known as ‘Popi’. This gastronomic celebration, which aimed to boost recognition of
Crush Band
Adam Woodward THE absolutely excellent Crush Band are on at the Premiere Club in Marbella and certain to get everyone up on their feet dancing.
Everyone loves Crush Band. Unafraid to tackle any song, this covers group will cover any popular tune into a mix of Funk, Rock or Reggae of their very personalised own. The challenge here is not getting up to dance.
The much loved four-piece have been playing non-stop this summer all along the Costa del Sol at festivals, events, and all the best venues. Highly accomplished musicians and a whole lot of fun.
You can see Crush Band for free at The Premier Club, Plaza de los Olivos, Marbella on Friday August 16, free entry.
the role of the professional ham cutter, continued until August 15.
For the most part, the objective of the competition was to promote Spanish pork products as well as other agrifood products in the Malaga Province. In total, the public were able to visit 65 exhibitors, including more than 200 professional ham cutters, making up one of the largest food tastings of this world-beating culinary wonder. Among this year’s participants there
were a dozen producers from the Malaga Province.
Some 500,000 visitors gulped down tonnes of samples of Iberian ham as well as being able to buy and take home ham, cheese and artisanal breads and pickles each day, while they watched the skilled ham cutters take off micro-thin slices of this well loved and world-recognised meat product. The event finished with the announcement of the winners of the best ham cutters.
Credit:
Jose Maria Tellez Popi, Facebook
Funk, Rock & Reggae
Credit: Ciara Dunne, Crush Band Facebook
Wine tasting at Ronda cliffs
THERE are an abundance of great wines that come from Ronda and the Tajo valley as well as great wine tasting experiences to be had. The recommendation for this week is the Bodega Gonzalo Beltrán at Finca Nogalera, right next door to Ronda town, and right on the banks of the river Guardalevín.
These are wines produced using organic farming and a traditional biodynamic criteria, in respectfully cultivated vineyards and with pampered fruit. The
producers use the Moon and the Stars to indicate the best days to manipulate the ground and the vines, and to know exactly when to harvest. Their 100 per cent manual and natural work, makes for a very beautiful vineyard to visit. At La Nogalera Estate the farm has been linked to the Beltrán family since the 19th century. It used to be an irrigated orchard with fruit trees, and with a historical and traditional cultivation system. On the tour of the vine-
yards which promises to provide unforgettable images of a historic place and ends with a guided tasting. The tours include a 90-minute tour of the Finca, with a tasting of their wines: two reds and two whites, accompanied by local tapas products. They put in a lot of attention to detail here, making a day out in Ronda something special, especially with friends. A tour and tasting costs just €30 per person. Bookings can be made online.
The giant tomato routemap
Adam Woodward
MORE than 60 restaurants across Malaga Province are presenting dishes until the end of the month in celebration of the Huevo de Toro tomato. The giant ‘tom’, in season now, and which is traditionally celebrated at this time of year in Malaga, is an emblematic part of the Guardalhorce Valley’s identity, and part of the culture and history of the area.
Yet again the Huevo de Toro has become the undisputed star of the allotment and an integral ingredient in the gastronomy of the Costa del Sol, which is why the Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association of Guardalhorce is using this celebration to promote this variety for is aromas, colour, flavour and texture.
A gastronomic routemap has been put together and was promoted at Ma-
laga’s most famous restaurant, El Pimpi, recently, by the organisation Sabor a Malaga, where invitees were able to test some of the tomato creations brought in from some of the 60 restaurants participating in the celebration. The festival is also a cause for economic celebration as with the tomato’s growing popularity, even on the international marketplace, the giant tomatoes are making up somewhat for the dip in the economy caused by plummeting citrus prices.
The participation of so many restaurants has been applauded by local growers associations and town councils as a great step forward in promoting this healthy, tasty and organic local product.
In La Cala de Mijas
SHOWING ALL SPORTS
Open from 9.30AM till late.
Premier League, SPL and Championship Games
Check out Instagram and Facebook for full sports fixtures
Using the links ->
LIVE MUSIC
Thursday @ 5.30pm - Sean Murray Friday @ 8.30pm - Ciarai n
Credit: Bodega Gonzalo Beltrán
ADVERTISING FEATURE
TASTE MARBELLA offers immersive culinary experiences in the picturesque coastal city of Marbella. Our guided tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant local food scene, enjoy delicious tapas, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Here’s a glimpse into the experiences we offer:
Marbella Tapas Adventures and Food & Market Tours
Embark on our Marbella Tapas Adventure to explore local, family-run establishments and enjoy house specialties paired with wine, guided by experts sharing fascinating stories. Alternatively, dive into Marbella’s vibrant gastronomy with our Food and Market Tour, where guests pick fresh produce in bustling markets, cooked on the spot for a true farm-to-table
experience. Both tours offer exquisite tapas and insights into Marbella’s rich culinary traditions and culture.
Ham Tasting:
Experience the exquisite flavours of Spanish ham with our specialised Ham Tasting tour. Guests learn about different types of ham, the intricate curing process, and the cultural significance of this beloved Spanish delicacy while enjoying a variety of high-quality samples. This tour is a must for those looking to indulge in one of Spain’s most renowned culinary delights.
What Makes Taste Marbella Special?
Since 2018, Taste Marbella has been proudly offering the first tapas tours in Marbella’s Old Town. Our tours are unique because they blend
Taste Marbella: A Culinary Adventure Awaits News from Simply Thriving Group
gastronomy and history, providing a memorable and authentic experience. With over 100 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, our exceptional service and unforgettable experiences speak for themselves.
Our tours cover the Marbella area, including the charming Old Town and the bustling municipal market areas, offering a comprehensive taste of the city’s culinary offerings.
Manuel Delgado, the founder of Taste Marbella, has extensive experience in the culinary and tourism industries. His passion for Spanish cuisine and history, combined with years of working in hospitality, has shaped the unique experiences offered by Taste Marbella.
We offer special rates for travel agents and organise bespoke private
experiences tailored to specific interests and preferences. Additionally, we periodically run promotions anddiscounts for group bookings and off peak seasons.
For more information or to book a tour, contact our customer care team via email at info@tastemarbella.com, by phone, or through our social media channels. Bookings can also be made directly through our website. Office hours for inquiries are Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Bookings can be made anytime through our website at www.tastemarbella.com. Telephone: +34 641 593 174.
Join Taste Marbella for an unforgettable culinary adventure, where every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and passion.
THE Late Summer Extravaganza which is being held on Sunday September 15 is proving popular but there is still room for more guests and it will be a wonderful evening for the Alzhiemer’s charity.
Please support it as it is a very important charity and does wonderful work in this area with a beautiful centre in Los Pacos.
Entertainment is being provided by Nathan Dean, Brian Piccolo and Emma Prothero.
Tickets at €40 (with €10 going to the charity) are available from Brian Piccolo and Val Williams. The ticket includes a welcome glass of cava, three-course meal and wine and beer during the meal. Call Val on 951 313 257 or 722 692 922.
Raffle tickets are also available for the fabulous prizes and all proceeds go to the Alzheimer’s Association.
WHILE Costa de la Luz’s reputation for golden sands and endless sunshine precedes it, a recent surge in tourism has revealed a growing demand to explore the region’s rich history and culture.
The coastline, stretching across the provinces of Cadiz and Huelva, encompasses stories dating back over 3,000 years. Ancient civilisations like the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Arabs all left their mark on the architecture, culture, and cuisine of the region.
History buffs can delve into the past by visiting the charming port city of Cadiz. This city played a pivotal role in shaping Spain’s future, hosting the signing of the country’s first constitution in 1812. Cadiz is also renowned for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, considered by many to be the most lively in all of Spain.
Across the border in Huelva, history comes alive in the villages of Moguer and Palos de la Frontera, co-
YellowSub Diving Centre in Tarifa
THE YellowSub diving centre is located in the town of Tarifa, in the province of Cadiz, 95 km from the city of Cadiz and 18 km from Algeciras.
Situated in a strategic location, Tarifa is at the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
Diving at Isla de las Palomas
Diving around Isla de las Palomas, which is part of the Natural Park of the Strait, offers the chance to observe and enjoy a wide variety of marine life, as well as diverse fauna and flora,
C STA de la LUZ
Costa de la Luz: More than just stunning beaches
llectively known as the Lugares Colombinos. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the life and voyages of Christopher Columbus, whose explorations led to the discovery of America.
Costa de la Luz isn’t just about historical significance; it’s a great destination for nature enthusiasts. Visit Doñana National Park, Spain’s most important nature reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts stunning landscapes - wetlands, marshlands teeming with unique wildlife, including the flamboyant flamingo.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the region’s powerful waves and winds create ideal conditions for water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
After a day of exploration or adventure, visitors can indulge in the region’s delicious local cuisine. Freshly caught seafood takes centre stage, with dishes like bluefin tuna, Huelva prawns, and Sanlucar
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including moray eels, turtles, sunfish, nudibranchs, kelp, anemones, and shipwrecks, among other things. All our dives and courses are attended and supervised by PADI-certified instructors.
Diverse Diving Sites
We dive around the Island of Tarifa (Isla de las Palomas), within the Natural Park of the Strait. There are more than 10 different sites to dive. The choice of diving site depends on the wind and currents. With an easterly wind, we dive on the west side of the island; with a westerly wind, we dive on the east side.
We can never decide exactly where we will dive; it always depends on the conditions at the moment.
Favourable Diving Conditions
Visibility conditions are quite favourable, averaging around 15 metres. The water temperature ranges between 16 and 20°C. We are open all day.
Visit YellowSub in Tarifa for an unforgettable diving experience where the Mediterranean and the Atlantic converge, offering unique underwater adventures and breathtaking marine life. divingtarifa.com
king prawns. No visit would be complete without sampling the diverse range of sherries from Jerez, the region’s iconic export.
The inland regions of Cadiz offer a captivating contrast to the coastal landscape. Explore the enchanting ‘white villages’, a network of 19 settlements where whitewashed houses cling to the mountainside. This area offers a glimpse into a simpler time.
Costa de la Luz’s cultural tapestry is woven with vibrant traditions. Huelva hosts El Rocío, Spain’s most popular procession and pilgrimage. This captivating spectacle, happening every May or June, sees a vibrant display of music and devotion as participants make their way to the village of Almonte.
Costa de la Luz is poised to become a top destination for travellers seeking a well-rounded vacation experience. With its stunning beaches as a starting point, the region offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural treasures waiting to be discovered.
CADIZ, often hailed as the oldest city in Western Europe, boasts a rich and fascinating history.
The city’s story begins around 1100 BC when Phoenician traders from Tyre established a settlement called Gadir. Drawn by the region’s natural resources, particularly silver, the Phoenicians transformed Cadiz into a thriving commercial centre. The city’s strategic position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and Atlantic made it a key trading post for goods from across the known world.
In the third century BC, Cadiz fell un-
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Cadiz: A city with a rich history
der Roman rule. Renamed Gades, the city continued to flourish as a major port and commercial centre. The Romans left an enduring legacy, including impressive public buildings and infrastructure.
In the eighth century, the Moors conquered Cadiz. During this period, the city experienced a period of cultural exchange, with Arab and Berber influences shaping its character.
Cadiz was recaptured by Christian forces in the 13th century, marking the beginning of a new era. However, it was the discovery of the Americas in the 15th century that propelled Cadiz to its golden age. The city became the primary port for Spanish trade with the New World, amassing immense wealth and power.
Today, Cadiz is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with modern life. Its charming old town, with its narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Meanwhile, its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood make it a popular tourist destination.
Where to stay on Costa de la Luz
TARIFA: This windsurfer’s paradise boasts stunning beaches, a vibrant atmosphere, and a laid-back vibe. Perfect for those seeking adventure and a touch of bohemian spirit.
Conil de la Frontera: With its lively atmosphere, delicious seafood, and wide sandy beaches, Conil is a family-friendly option with plenty to offer.
El Palmar: A surfer’s haven with a relaxed atmosphere, El Palmar is ideal for those seeking a laid-back escape.
Zahara de los Atunes: Known for its pristine beaches and luxury villas, Zahara offers a more exclusive experience.
Cadiz: This historic city is a cultural treasure trove with a rich history, stun-
ning architecture, and a lively atmosphere.
Vejer de la Frontera: A picturesque, whitewashed village perched on a hilltop, Vejer offers stunning views and a taste of traditional Andalucian life.
El Puerto de Santa María: With its charming old town, historic landmarks, and proximity to Jerez, El Puerto is a great base for exploring the region.
Islantilla: This resort town offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities, including water parks, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.
Novo Sancti Petri: With its spacious beaches, luxury resorts, and a variety of activities, Novo Sancti Petri is a popular choice for families.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Explore the Unknown and Dive into a New World...
OUR mission is to make every dive memorable, whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver. Years of dedication to our passion have enabled us to provide an exceptionally reliable and well-equipped service. Our instructors and professional team are committed to delivering the highest level of professionalism you deserve.
Born out of our deep love for the sea and its creatures, León Marino Diving Centre is proud to be recognised as a Blue Oceans Centre, reflecting our commitment to ocean conservation. We are also members of OCTOPUS TARIFA, an association dedicated to preserving the seabed around Tarifa Island. Our main goal is to share our passion with you and help you develop into skilled divers, allowing you to fully enjoy the ocean’s endless wonders while respecting the
marine environment.
At León Marino Diving Centre, we are all deeply committed to preserving the ecosystem and strive to instill this philosophy in our divers, fostering a greater sense of freedom and responsibility towards our planet’s future.
León Marino Diving Centre is an SSI Diamond Centre, official MARES distributor, and the official SCR HORIZON Mares Centre.
We offer comprehensive services to divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, including SSI courses ranging from initiation to XR technical and professional diving, as we are an SSI Instructor Training Centre.
Join us to explore a unique diving experience, where you can dive in both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic on the same day.
COSTA DE LA LUZ has a thriving surf culture, with a growing community of local and international surfers. Surf shops, cafes, and accommodation options cater to the needs of wave riders. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make this region a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surf lifestyle.
With its consistent swells and diverse breaks, the region has something to offer surfers of all levels. From beginner-friendly waves to challenging peaks for the experienced, it has become a sought-after destination for wave riders from around the globe.
Tarifa is often hailed as the windsurfing capital of Europe, Tarifa also boasts excellent surfing conditions. The strong, consistent winds create powerful swells that attract surfers from far and wide. Whether you’re a seasoned
C STA de la LUZ
A surfer’s paradise
pro or just starting out, you’ll find waves to suit your ability.
Cadiz has a variety of beaches and break types. From long, rolling waves to shorter, punchier peaks, this region is a surfer’s playground. Explore hidden coves and popular surf spots to find your perfect wave.
Huelva is less known for surfing than Cadiz and Tarifa, yet still offers some excellent waves. With a more laid-back atmosphere, this region is perfect for those seeking a quieter surf experience.
The Costa de la Luz enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it a surfable destination almost any time of the year. However, the best conditions are generally from September to April when the swells are more consistent, and the crowds are smaller.
Whalewatching with
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THE Swiss Foundation Firmm offers from April to early November daily observation tours in Tarifa to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
The strait offers plenty of food, which is why seven different marine mammals can be found here:
The smallest dolphins with their special colouring are the common and striped dolphins.
Bottlenose dolphins often come curiously close to the boat, their natural behaviour can by no means be compared to the forced tricks in the dolphinariums.
Pilot whales are hunting at night; they are the ones we see most often here.
Orcas come to the strait especially in July and August and join the
fishing boats hunting tuna.
Sperm whales, in search of the giant squid, are mainly here in spring and autumn.
Fin whales migrate from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic mainly during the summer.
Thanks to Firmm’s many years of experience and research, animals are sighted on 99 per cent of the trips.
In several languages, guests learn interesting facts about whales and dolphins and the Strait of Gibraltar in a half-hour presentation.
Firmm approaches the animals in a respectful way to avoid disturbing them. The proximity to the animals makes you realise how important it is to protect the habitat of these marine mammals.
See booking details in advertisement below.
A Free your Mind Experience
FREE YOUR MIND EXPERIENCE is a professional watersport school and offers in Tarifa and the Strait of Gibraltar unique watersport activities.
Join us for professional kitesurfing and wingfoiling classes in Tarifa. Our kitesurfing school offers you daily scheduled high-quality classes suited 100 per cent to your needs. In Tarifa, we benefit from more than 300 windy days a year, which makes it great to learn a new sport like kitesurfing or wingfoiling. All year through it is possible to learn these amazing sports with us and we have a 100 per cent satisfaction or money-back guarantee.
At Free your Mind Experience, we count on a fleet comprising a motorboat and a sailing boat, each perfectly main-
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tained to ensure safety and comfort. Whether it’s private group excursions or individual outings, we specialise in creating customised trips you’ll remember!
What sets us apart is our commitment to providing a variety of activities that cater to various preferences. From the joy of dolphin watching and snorkeling to the thrill of wakeboarding and donuting, our adventures are designed to spark the desire to explore and enjoy.
Additionally, we offer opportunities for peaceful relaxation and celebration with our chill-out trips and birthday party packages.
Feel free to reach out for more information or a quote to experience the beautiful ocean which surrounds us.
Crt. N 340, C/ La Vega Studios, 11830 Tarifa
Call or +34 669 261 678 info@freeyourmindexperience.com freeyourmindexperience.com
Life on the Costa de la Luz
THE Costa de la Luz offers a quieter, more authentic lifestyle compared to its busier coastal counterparts. For those seeking a balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, the region could be the perfect place to call home.
One of the most appealing aspects of living on the Costa de la Luz is the relaxed pace of life. The region’s laidback atmosphere is a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Days are often spent enjoying the stunning beaches, exploring charming coastal towns, or indulging in delicious seafood.
lovers.
The Costa de la Luz is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. International residents often find it easy to integrate into the community and form lasting friendships.
From the golden sandy beaches of Tarifa and Bolonia to the rugged cliffs and coves of Conil de la Frontera. Inland, you’ll find rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque white villages, offering a diverse landscape for nature
While the Costa de la Luz offers a high quality of life, it is essential to consider some practical factors before making the move. Healthcare is generally good, but it’s advisable to have private health insurance. The cost of living is generally lower than in other parts of Spain, but prices can vary depending on your location and lifestyle.
The Costa de la Luz is a captivating region that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a relaxed lifestyle. If you are dreaming of a slower pace of life in a stunning coastal setting, this region of Spain could be the perfect place for you.
Credits: Shutterstock
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Bright ideas
A GOVERNMENT scheme intended to boost new research and the economy has cost more than £4 billion (€4.65 billion) in both fraud and human error since 2020, HMRC admitted. ‘Groundbreaking’ innovations included methods for window-cleaners to hold buckets at height and initiatives for putting vegan food on pub menus.
Family affair
SANDRA ORTEGA MERA, daughter of Inditex owner Amancio Ortega and his first wife, earned €149.4 million in 2023 from her company, Rosp Corunna, which manages her investments and wealth while providing advisory services. This was 27.7 per cent less than in 2022 but still increased her assets to €1.4 billion.
Creeping up
RETAIL sales began to recover in the UK during July as summery weather finally arrived after a cold and rainy June, figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) revealed. Although consumers were still hesitating about make large purchases, retail sales rose by a modest 0.5 per cent, the BRC said.
Chat pays
POPULAR chat show El Hormiguero, broadcast live on Antena 3, is making money for its creators, presenter Pablo Motos and his business partner, producer Jorge Salvador. Their company 7yAccion posted revenues of €31.3 million in 2023 and profits of €6.7 million, an increase of 55 per cent on the previous year.
Falklands fail
STRUGGLING Harland & Wolff suffered another blow after the Falkland Islands government withdrew from talks to construct a £120 million (€139.4 million) floating dock in Port Stanely. The Belfast shipbuilder announced that despite “productive discussions” both parties had agreed to cease further negotiations.
IBERDROLA has paid approxi mately €2.5 billion for 88 per cent of the British grid ope rator, Electricity North West (ENW).
The deal will in fact cost €5 billion, as Iberdrola is ta king on ENW’s debt, executi ve chairman Ignacio Sanchez Galan announced.
The remaining 12 per cent holding continues in the hands of a Japanese consortium headed by Kansai Electric Power.
Galan’s move was also applauded by leading credit ra-
€32.1 billion
in earnings for Spanish companies listed on the country’s stock market during the first six months of this year, 15.4 per cent up on the first half of 2023.
tings agencies. Standard and Poors (S&P) predicted that ENW would contribute €500 million annually to Iberia’s
earnings before taxes, interest, depreciation and amortisation.
Moody’s said acquiring ENW was positive from the point of view of the company’s long-term credit rating. “The acquisition will strengthen the predictability of Iberdrola’s cash generation,” the agency added.
Fitch also approved the Iberdrola transaction. “It is well positioned to finance the acquisition entirely in cash, taking advantage of its ample cash reserves and headroom,” an agency statement said.
Eyewatering fines
THREE UK water firms face fines totalling £168 million (€195.6 million) for inadequately managing their wastewater plants and networks.
With sewage spills into rivers and the sea more than doubling in 2023, Britain’s Water Services Regulation Authority (Ofwat) proposes to sanction Thames Water with the stiffest fine of £104 million (€121.1 million).
Yorkshire Water will pay £47 million (€54.7 million) and Northumbrian Water £17 million (€19.8 million).
After investigating whether the three companies provided customers with the service they were legally entitled to, Ofwat found that insufficient
investment and deficient management had resulted in “repeated releases of raw sewage” into the country’s waterways.
Ofwat has the power to fine companies up to 10 per cent of their annual sales and the 9 per cent imposed on Thames Water reflected the severity of its offences, Ofwat’s chief executive Thomas Black told the BBC.
In response, a Thames Water spokesperson said that the company took the findings “very seriously” and had cooperated at every stage of the investigation.
“We regard all untreated discharges as unacceptable, even when they
Less appealing Expertise
MULTINATIONAL Accenture has acquired Bilbao-headquartered company Bolsan, which specialises in overseeing large infrastructure projects.
Financial details were not revealed, but Accenture said Boslan would enable it “to reinvent how clients engineer and execute net-zero infrastructure projects.”
Boslan brings more than 1,000 engineering and project management professionals to Accenture, most of whom are based in Spain and Brazil although the company is also present in the UK, the US and Mexico.
THE BBVA-Sabadell hostile takeover bid is currently “in limbo”, Bloomberg Intelligence said on August 7.
Industry analyst Lento Tang maintained the outcome was “uncertain” despite BBVA’s record earnings this year.
He pointed out that BBVA’s offer of €4.83 per share made public on May 1 represented a 30 per cent premium on Sabadell’s share price at the time. At one stage this rose 52 per cent above the Catalan bank’s average over the three months preceding the May offer.
By early August the premium had fallen 5 per cent, while only two weeks previously the premium had dipped to 4 per cent as the BBVA offer rapidly lost its appeal.
are permitted,” they told the broadcaster.
Yorkshire Water and Northumbrian Water said they were “disappointed” by Ofwat’s decision.
At the same time Britain’s water companies hope to increase their customers’ bills by more than 44 per cent over the next five years to pay for improvements to infrastructure.
Playtime over
POLY JUGUETES toyshops have closed their 30 Spanish stores, six months after filing for voluntary liquidation.
Acquired in 2018 by UK-based Teal Group Holdings, which also owns The Entertainer, Early Learning Centre and Addo, the chain had accumulated losses of €15 million and was no longer viable, the parent company said in March 2024.
All 169 employees have been laid off but will receive more than the legally-established redundancy pay.
The demise of Poly Juguetes follows that of another once-popular toy chain, Imaginarium, which went into liquidation in July 2022 and closed all its shops in early April this year.
GRANDPARENTS tend to look after grandchildren without expecting, or wanting, anything in return.
But if they were to be paid for what is usually an unremunerated labour of love, how much would they earn?
Financial services Sun Life recently calculated the cost of a typical scenario where granny (or grandad) contributes two hours each of chauffeuring, cooking and cleaning for their grandchildren each week.
After including a weekly 18 hours of babysitting, Sun Life came up with an annual salary of £15,864 (€18,481) per grandparent.
Agencies thumbs-up On the payroll Leaving Soho
ONLINE fashion retailer Boohoo seeks a buyer prepared to pay £60m (€69.8) for its London headquarters. Although based in Manchester, Boohoo opened the Great Pulteney Street offices in Soho during its rapid expansion, spending £72 million (€83.7 million) on the building in 2021. According to the Telegraph, any sale would include the option to lease back the offices for up to five years.
Beleaguered Boohoo is aware that a £325 million (€377.8) unsecured overdraft looms, and must be repaid over the coming 18 months.
CREW CLOTHING is suing its former chief executive David Butler 16 months after he resigned in 2023.
Butler allegedly paid himself £622,000 (€722,967) in salary, bonuses and other extras, which he later claimed had been approved by owner Menoshi Shina.
The company maintains that this agreement did not exist, and that it “would never” have consented to it. Butler, who launched a wrongful dismissal case against Crew Clothing, continues to insist that he had received “verbal promises” from Menoshi Shina.
IGNACIO GALAN: Iberdrola executive chairman announced ENW acquisition.
Photo credit: Iberdrola
Photo credit: CC/Jim Linwood
THAMES WATER: Headquartered in Reading (Berkshire).
3I Group 3.013,80 3.038,00 3.010,80 77,96K Admiral Group 2.692,0 2.702,0 2.673,0 18,68K Airtel Africa 110,90 111,80 110,60 170,41K Anglo American 2.247,4 2.260,5 2.241,0 74,14K Antofagasta 1.865,50 1.880,00 1.856,00 60,17K Ashtead Group 5.208,0 5.228,9 5.198,0 21,78K Associated British Foods 2.446,0 2.470,0 2.443,0 21,15K
12.676,0 12.760,0 12.656,0 103K Auto Trader Group Plc 792,20 798,40 791,00 59,52K Aviva 484,18 486,70 482,40 515,15K
B&M European Value Retail SA 450,60 465,70 450,60 134,41K BAE Systems 1.286,00 1.293,50 1.283,00 273,93K
219,55 221,15 218,70 5,32M Barratt Developments 522,87 529,20 512,40 427,73K
Beazley 728,00 736,00 724,50 308,75K
Berkeley 5.025,0 5.090,0 5.016,8 48,08K
BP 438,40 439,60 435,00 2,84M
British American Tobacco 2.798,5 2.809,0 2.793,0 327,5K
BT Group 139,22 140,45 138,00 10,31M Bunzl 3.202,0 3.208,0 3.186,0 20,17K Burberry Group 682,5 697,0 681,6 139,3K Centrica 125,37 125,60 123,28 990,5K Coca Cola HBC AG 2.708,0 2.710,0 2.686,0 56,01K Compass 2.348,00 2.363,00 2.337,00 180,69K
595,72 598,80 594,60
EXTRA
Chile contract
SPANISH companies
Sacyr and Azvi were awarded the €266 million concession to operate and expand Chile’s Northern Airports Network. This will involve tripling the size of the Antofagasta terminal and increase by five the surface area of Atacama airport.
Too much
LORD SAATCHI’s £350 million (€406.3 million) offer for the Telegraph failed to make it to the second round of the auction. The former advertising tycoon afterwards described RedBird IMI’s £600 million (€696.8 million) acquisition of the newspaper rights in December 2023 as “overpayment.”
Good year for English wine
ENGLAND produced 161,960 hectolitres of wine in 2023, equivalent to 21.6 million bottles and an increase of 77 per cent on 2022.
This does not make the UK a recognised wine-making country - Uzbekistan and Tunisia produce more - but revenues for English vineyards nevertheless rose by 15 per cent in 2023, as climate change encouraged growers to plant more vines.
After analysing Com-
IAG gives in
BRITISH AIRWAYS and Iberia owner IAG finally dropped its €400 million Air Europa takeover ambitions.
This was IAG’s second attempt at acquiring from Globalia the 80 per cent of the Spanish airline that it did not own after the European Commission frustrated earlier plans in 2021.
Brussels maintained that had the merger gone ahead, IAG would have domina-
ted Madrid’s Barajas airport, bringing the possibility of higher prices for passengers.
After confirming that IAG was abandoning its Air Europa plans, chief executive Luis Gallego said the airline believed this decision was now in shareholders’ best interests.
He also revealed that IAG would pay Globalia a €50 million breakup fee after backing out of the deal.
seven largest vineyards increased from £32 million (€37.2 million) in 2022 to £37 million (€43 million) last year. This tripled the £13 million (€15.1 million) that the same companies recorded in 2018-2019.
Chapel Down probably the best-known of the English vineyards, posted revenues of £17.2 million (€20 million) for the year ending December 31, 2023.
The UHY Hacker Young survey concluded that English wine has been boosted by improved growing conditions with vineyards as far north as Yorkshire and even Scotland. But as English and British wines flourished, traditional wine-makers failed to benefit from higher temperatures.
Spain and Italy, the world’s largest producers after France, have both seen their output affected by the drought as well as torrential rains that result from climate change.
Coal wins
MINING giant Glencore will not divest itself of its coal interests after 95 per cent of the FTSE 100 company’s shareholders voted to retain the profitable fossil fuel division. Glencore has now shelved earlier plans to merge its coal business with the steelmaking coal division of its recently acquired Canadian company, Teck Resources, and list in New York.
Joining forces
TELEFONICA, Vodafone and Masorange intend to share their fibre optic networks, signing separate bilateral agreements with each other to avoid objections from Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC). Between them, the three operators provide fibre optic internet connections for 15 million lines although the network has the potential to reach 78.7 million properties.
pany House records, UHY
Hacker Young accounting
services found that turnover for the country’s
Photo credit: FB Chapel Down
CHAPEL DOWN: English wine-producer races ahead
Vegan diet reduced biological age and weight loss
RECENT scientific research suggests that adopting a vegan diet for just two months can have profound health benefits, including reducing biological age and promoting weight loss. These findings highlight the potential of plant-based diets to enhance overall well-being and longevity.
Biological age refers to the condition of our cells and tissues, which can differ from our chronological age. The study found that participants who switched to a vegan diet experienced a reduction in their biological age markers. This rejuvenation effect is attributed to the high intake of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from plant-based foods, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
Credit: Jane Trang
Hair’s ageing journey
In addition to the anti-ageing benefits, the vegan diet also proved effective for wei ght loss. Partici pants lost a significant amount of weight over the two-month period. The weight loss is primarily due to the diet’s high fibre content and lower calorie density, which promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake.
A vegan diet emphasises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, all of which are nutrient-dense. These foods provide essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins C and E, and
phytochemicals, which support metabolic health and enhance immune function.
For those considering a vegan diet, it’s important to plan meals to ensure adequate intake of protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, which can be sourced from fortified foods or supplements.
AS we age, our hair undergoes significant changes influenced by genetics, hormones, and overall health. One of the most noticeable changes is the gradual greying of hair. This occurs because hair follicles produce less melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour. The process can start as early as in one’s 20s, but typically becomes more pronounced in the 40s and beyond.
Hair texture also changes with age. Many find their hair becoming finer and drier due to a decrease in the production of natural oils. This can make hair appear thinner and more brittle, leading to breakage.
Hormonal changes, particularly in women during menopause, can exacerbate these issues, sometimes causing hair loss or thinning. Moreover, the growth rate of hair slows down as we age. Hair follicles can shrink, resulting in shorter hair cycles and fewer active follicles at any given time.
Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and using appropriate hair care products can help mitigate some of these changes, ensuring your hair remains as vibrant as possible through the years.
Doan, Pexels
Suffering from heatstroke
HEATSTROKE is a serious condition that occurs when the body overheats, usually due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity in hot weather. It requires immediate medical attention.
Here’s what to do if you or someone else suffers from heatstroke:
Common signs of heatstroke include:
• High body temperature (104°F or higher)
• Altered mental state or behaviour (confusion, agitation, slurred speech)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Flushed skin
• Rapid breathing and heart rate
• Headache
Immediate actions
1. Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
SOMETIMES we forget to pay the required attention to our health thereby forgetting to perform routine health checks. In our clinic not only will you find the best health care professionals who can help you with this, but they also help you obtain results quickly. You will find the best professionals and the fastest results. Don’t leave it any longer, if you were thinking about having to visit a specialist, call us and let’s schedule an appointment for you!
Dial 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
2. Get the affected person to a shady or air-conditioned area.
3. Use any available means to cool the person. This can include:
• Placing them in a cool shower or bath
• Sponging with cool water
• Applying ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck, and back
• Using fans or a cool, wet cloth
4. If the person is conscious and able to drink, give them cool water. Avoid caffeine or alcohol.
To prevent heatstroke, stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat, and take frequent breaks in a cool environment.
Benefits of broad beans
BROAD beans, also known as fava beans, are a nutrient-rich legume that offer numerous health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, they are an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Broad beans are a great source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans. They also contain a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, and manganese. These nutrients support various bodily functions, from bone health to metabolism.
Rich in dietary fibre, broad beans help lower cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for heart health. The high fibre content also aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Broad beans contain L-dopa, a compound that converts to dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and cognitive function, po-
tentially improving mental clarity and reducing symptoms of depression. These beans are packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporating broad beans into your diet can enhance your overall health, providing essential nutrients, supporting heart health, and boosting brain function.
Avenida de España 20, Local 5 sitio de Calahonda, Malaga. +34 952 933 377
MILK spots, also known as milia, are small white or yellow cysts that commonly appear on the skin, including in adults. These tiny bumps form when keratin, a protein found in skin cells, becomes trapped beneath the
Milia treatment Need more sleep
skin’s surface. While often associated with newborns, adults can develop milk spots due to various factors, including skin damage from sun exposure, use of heavy skincare
products, or long-term use of steroid creams.
Treatments for milk spots in adults typically focus on gentle exfoliation to help remove the trapped keratin. Overthe-counter exfoliating products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can be effective. Professional treatments such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels performed by a dermatologist may also help. In some cases, a dermatologist may need to lance the milia with a sterile needle.
Preventive measures include avoiding heavy creams and oils, wearing sunscreen to protect against sun damage, and incorporating regular exfoliation into your skincare routine can help reduce the occurrence of milk spots and maintain healthier skin.
SINCE 2023, 20 schools in Denmark shifted their start times to adapt to the needs of teenagers. The private school, Th. Langs Skole in Silkeborg was the pioneer of the initiative, having begun their trial in 2022. Seeing their results, schools across the country followed.
After adding an extra morning hour in the school day, both students and teachers of the Th. Langs Skole were pleasantly surprised. “They sleep better, they sleep longer and they actually have more energy. Not only in the morning but also during the day,” commented the school’s principal Tine Agerholm Kristianses.
One of the students, Emily, aged 15 said; “Before, we were very tired and quite upset in the morning. When we
became happier. We talk to each other instead of looking at our phones.”
The school then collaborated with the tech company, Enversion to track the sleep of students through an app.
The school’s communications officer, Karina Juul Uldal Christesen stated; “Our then-seventh-grade class used to spend an average of 3.5 hours falling asleep before the project. It fell to 1.6.”
Danish health experts revealed that the circadian rhythm of teens is different to adults, hence the school system is flawed in not considering the essential needs of teenagers. With this notion increasingly considered, more and more schools are beginning to transform old educational models.
Credit: John-Mark Smith, Pexels
Branded Residences
redefine Luxury Real Estate in Marbella
THE Costa del Sol is witnessing a new era in luxury real estate as top fashion brands like Karl Lagerfeld, Lamborghini, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana enter the market with branded residences. These collaborations between fashion icons and leading developers are setting new standards for opulence and exclusivity in Marbella.
A new trend is transforming Marbella’s luxury real estate market: branded residences. Top fashion brands, including Karl Lagerfeld, Lamborghini, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana, are partnering with leading de -
velopers to create exclusive properties that blend high fashion with luxury living. This trend, highlighted in the latest market report by The Agency Marbella - The Belleside Team, is driving rapid off-plan sales and adding unprecedented glamour to the Costa del Sol.
On Marbella’s Golden Mile, Karl Lagerfeld, in collaboration with Sierra Blanca Estates, is developing five unique residences, with two already sold for around €15 million each. Similarly, Lamborghini and DarGlobal are building 53 villas in Benahavis, priced between €3.6 million and €8.4 million,
showcasing the seamless blend of automotive design and real estate.
Other standout pro jects include the Design Hills Dolce&Gabbana de velopment, which sold 37 per cent of its units wi thin days of its September 2023 launch, and EPIC by Fendi Casa, offering 56 residences with interiors by the iconic Italian brand. Marea by Missoni in Casares, with 65 residences starting at €1 million, and an upcoming Versace project in Nueva Andalucía further illustrate the growing trend.
Leif Orthmann, Managing
Partner at The Agency Marbella, explains, “Branded residences are the ultimate expression of luxury living. These projects offer unparalleled design and the unique prestige of owning a property associated with a world-renowned brand.”
As detailed in The Agency Marbella’s report, this fusion of luxury fashion and real estate is not just a trend but a new benchmark for luxury living on the Costa del Sol, making Marbella a global hotspot for sophisticated and discerning buyers.
For more information, contact The Agency Marbella at marbella@theagencyre.com or visit www.belleside.com.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
There is a solution for everything
MARIANNE ELIASSON leads Barona Service Centre in Spain, which stands as the largest employer in Fuengirola after the town itself.
Under her leadership, the centre aims to cultivate a positive workplace environment.
As the Malaga area attracts more families and working-age individuals, the demand for employment opportunities grows.
Barona Service Centre Spain, with over a decade of operation in Fuengirola, has earned a reputation as a reliable company that prioritises employee well-being and takes care of their clients.
Serving now more than 20 clients, the centre offers sales support, customer service,
back-office tasks, and ICT-help desk solutions across various industries every day of the week 24/7.
Their multilingual services are a possibility to both private and public sector clients.
With a thriving community of over 360 employees, Barona Service Centre has expanded further with the opening of their new office in Mijas.
Our centre’s robust onboarding process ensures seamless integration for incoming clients, fostering strong partnerships. Additionally, the centre provides project-based services, offering solutions tailored to clients’ needs - even for short-term engagements.
For inquiries, reach out to Marianne Eliasson, Head of Service Centre, at marianne.eliasson@barona.fi.
Leif -Julia -Benjamin from The Agency Marbella
Costa Blanca North Boogie Wonderland!
ON the night of August 16, Benidorm will play host to a genuine legend of funk, soul, and timeless music. The atmospheric Julio Iglesias Auditorium will host the Earth, Wind & Fire Experience built around Al McKay, promising a truly fantastic evening.
Al McKay, an original Earth, Wind & Fire member and inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, will bring his iconic presence and talent to the stage. This concert will celebrate the original band’s bestknown hits, including September, Let’s Groove, Got to Get You into My Life, and, of course, the most memorable of all, Boogie Wonderland.
For those who have secured a ticket, this sold-out performance in Benidorm offers a rare and privileged opportunity to witness the magic of this renowned band in Spain, as it is the only stop on its packed international tour. Following their performance in Benidorm, the band will continue their tour with appearances in the UK, France, Switzerland, China, Malaysia, South Africa, and Australia.
Axarquia Torrox against cancer
THE Municipal Theatre Villa de Torrox was the stage for a special performance of ‘El Mundo al Revés,’ (The World Upside Down ) organised by the Torrox Theatre Association. This event wasn’t just about showcasing a play; it was a heartfelt effort to raise funds for the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) in Torrox. The play attracted a large crowd, all eager to support the cause.
The evening was a resounding success, with enthusiastic audience members filling the theatre. Their attendance not only highlighted their love for theatre but also their strong commitment to fighting cancer. Local figures like Sandra Extremera, councillor for the Elderly in Torrox, and Salvador Escudero, councillor for Culture, showed their support by attending, highlighting the importance of the cause.
The Villa de Torrox Theatre expressed pride in supporting this cause, noting the powerful blend of art and community spirit in advancing important causes.
Mallorca
Dramatic sea rescue
THERE was a dramatic rescue operation on Saturday August 10 in the waters off Camp de Mar, Andratx, as a yacht carrying a German family and two crew members began to sink.
Emergency services were alerted shortly before 10.00am to reports of a vessel in distress. The Maritime Rescue Service swiftly mobilised the Salvamar Libertas while Local Police units rushed to the scene.
Fortunately, a nearby private boat was able to reach the yacht in time, rescuing all five individuals on board, including a young child. The rescued group, consisting of a German couple, their son, and two crew members, were safely returned to Port Adriano.
Despite the rapid response, the yacht continued to take on water and is now submerged at the bottom of the sea. Maritime Rescue teams remain in the area to monitor the situation and prevent any potential environmental impact.
Costa Blanca South Street Festival
THE Elche on the Street Festival (Elx al Carrer) in Elche is returning for its 16th year, bringing over 20 performances to various squares and city streets. Due to high demand for participation, the festival has been extended to span two weekends, taking place on September 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, and 15.
Councillor for Youth, María Bonmatí, highlighted that ‘Elx al Carrer’ is one of the initiatives aimed at bringing culture directly to the city’s public spaces, offering an alternative form of leisure.
The festival will feature a diverse array of performances, including theatre, dance, music, and circus acts, in prominent locations such as Plaza del Congreso Eucarístico, Plaza de Baix, and Plaza del Centro de Congresos.
Pablo Tortosa, the coordinator of the Elx al Carrer programme, emphasised the variety of talent involved, noting that both national and international artists, as well as local amateur performers, will transform the streets into expansive stages.
Almeria
Almeria fair fans
SOME 15,000 people from Almeria are already holding their Almeria Fair fan for this year’s fiesta.
The Fair’s fan is the most desirable of all for thousands of people from Almeria and tourists from all over as they prepare for the festivities in honour of the Patron Saint, the Virgen del Mar.
The fan, decorated in red and teal with the iconic flamenco dancer design by Carlos Rigo, was first distributed on Saturday, August 10, in three locations; the Plaza de la Constitucion, the Centro de la Mujer de Cortijo Grande and the office of El Alquian.
The event is coordinated by the Department of Culture, Traditions and Major Festivals of the Almeria City Council.
The fans are once again raising funds for charity this year, as all the money raised from the fans (€2 per fan) will be donated to institutions that work to help those who need it most, including soup kitchens, Casa de Nazaret and Caritas.
Costa Calida Royal in Los Belones
PALOMA ROCASOLANO, the mother of Queen Letizia of Spain, has made a significant life change by moving from Madrid to Cartagena. She’s now living in Los Belones, a town known for its sizeable English community. This move is largely to be closer to her partner, Marcus Brandler, a British businessman with ties to both Spain and the UK.
In Los Belones, Paloma and Marcus have settled into the local scene. They’re often spotted visiting the town’s butcher, a hair salon, and relaxing at Las Mulas beach. The couple first went public at the 2022 Princess of Asturias Awards, where they attended as a couple.
Brandler is the president of Tillbrook Products, a family business involved in the trade of tea, coffee, cocoa, and spices. Over the past five years, he’s spent more time in Spain, becoming an integral part of the Rocasolano family. Queen Letizia and her sister Telma warmly welcomed him, and he even organised a surprise 70th birthday party for Paloma.
ADVERTISING
FEATURE
RGM Moviles offer a friendly and personalised service
SITUATED in the heart of Fuengirola’s busy shopping district, RGM Moviles attends scores of customers every day, giving advice, carrying out repairs and selling from a broad catalogue of products.
Known for being the best in price, selection, quality and
service, what RGM Moviles do is sell high-quality, second-hand electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches and accessories at far more reasonable prices than you are likely to find elsewhere. They also offer the best quality repair and replacement of components using original and the highest quality replacement parts. The customer service is what really differentiates RGM
Moviles from their competition in Fuengirola. Customers can count on an excellent after sales service as well as guarantee, discounts and a customer loyalty programme.
They also hold ‘Flash’ offers in which they periodically give up to 40 per cent discount on products for a limited time, while their customer loyalty programme offers some surprise discounts for repeat customers.
This year, María Egiazaryan, the company owner, tells us, they are celebrating their seventh year in Fuengirola and business is better than ever with loyal customers returning as they know RGM Moviles is a store they can trust. As well as their in-store sales, their onli-
ne business is attracting a lot of customers too.
Online customers can trust María and her team to take orders from their website, process, package and have them delivered in no time at all. They even send purchases to customers in the Balearics and Canary Islands.
RGM Moviles can be contacted by phone, WhatsApp, email, via their Instagram or Facebook pages, or as well via Google messenger to handle quickly any enquiry.
This family business was inspired by Maria’s father, Artur, who is an industrial electronics engineer. Maria says “one day he started repairing our phones at home and then
went on to repair the electronic devices of friends. The demand began to grow and we decided to open our store. I started working with him and little by little he taught me everything I needed. To this day, it encourages me to learn new things and new techniques.”
In spite of the intense competition, RGM Moviles know that what customers really value is trust, which along with friendly and personalised service is precisely what people deserve.
RGM Moviles can be found in C/ Miguel de Unamuno, 1 Local 4 (29640) Fuengirola, Malaga. They are open Monday to Friday between 9am and 2pm, and later from 5pm to 8pm. On Saturdays they open from 10am to 1pm. Or, you can browse their products on www.rgmmoviles.com or contact them via Instagram @rgm.moviles or Facebook, or by calling 653 475 747.
LOST IN TRANSLATION (2)
EVER wondered about the quirky differences between Spanish and English? Take humour. Whilst the British approach is often characterised as deadpan, subtle and relying on sarcasm, this dry wit can be lost in translation in many countries including Spain. The awkwardness of an iconic TV character like The Office’s David Brent could lead to puzzled looks from Spanish viewers more accustomed to livelier, animated comedy.
Next, let’s give names the once-over. It’s quite a saga. But what an important saga. What appears like a middle name is actually the first, and most used, of the two surnames all Spaniards have. Juan Rodríguez García is Juan to mates but Señor Rodríguez to others (Rodríguez was his father’s first surname, and García his mother’s).
And women? They usually stick to their maiden surname after marriage. ‘Señora’ is ‘Mrs’ and ‘Señorita’ is ‘Miss’ (there’s NO equivalent of ‘Ms’) while ‘Doña’ is either, and a respectful term.
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
So you can address a lady as ‘Doña Isabel’ - or a man as ‘Don’. (Always reminds me of the movie, The Godfather!)
Finally, a Spanish magician recently informed me he’d disappear - you read it here first in the superlative Euro Weekly News - he said, ‘Uno, dos...’ Then disappeared without a t-r-e-s!
And as before, many thanks for all your welcome emails to my website! So pleased you enjoy my column!
Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.no ra-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
I’m just very confused!
I’M confused by what’s going on in the UK. Something is happening and even though I’m not sure exactly what it is, I just don’t know what to believe. I see a video on TV or online and my immediate reaction is OMG that’s terrible. In this instance I’m talking about a policeman kicking a man on the floor. The next day I see the same video, this time it’s a bit longer, and in this video I see what I think is what led up to the kicking incident. In the longer video I think I see some thugs attacking the police and smashing a female police officer in the face and breaking her nose. I then read that the police officer is in big trouble but can’t see anything about what happened to the blokes that appeared to start the fight. Next thing I see is those two guys with a lawyer telling a story which does not relate to anything that I saw. Can someone please explain to me what’s happening?
I read what Tommy Robinson says. I read what Farage says. I also read Byline News, Laurence Fox. I also read all the opposing views. So I’m covering the right, far right, and the left and far left. Remem-
ber if the far left keep going further left and the far right keep going further right they will meet and end up fighting about the same thing. I also read stuff Nick Lowles wrote about an acid attack that many said was just not true. I look at all the newspaper headlines which, by the way, are totally useless as they only tell you what happened yesterday - except the Daily Star, that just doesn’t report anything. I watch every news station and am very confused because none seem to be reporting on the same story even though they are showing the same video.
I’m also confused about people turning up to protest about marches that were never going to happen. You can now go to prison for being an idiot and retweeting something another idiot posted. I think I’m looking at gangs of people walking around with swords and machetes, maybe the odd pick axe handle, and not being arrested and then seeing police arresting a pair of gobby women for - well I’m not sure what.
I’m just very confused because if you dare to give any alternative view or agree with someone a bit controversial, you are either shouted down or called a fascist or woke. Help!! Email: mikesenker@gmail.com
VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION
Luxury Real Estate Market on the Costa del Sol reaches €3.2 billion, reports The Agency Marbella
THE Costa del Sol’s luxury real estate market is booming, with new developments valued at €3.2 billion.
A report by The Agency Marbella highlights growing international interest in high-end properties, ranging from €1 million to over €10 million.
The luxury real estate market on the Costa del Sol has reached a value of €3.2 billion, according to a report by The Agency Marbella - The Belleside Team. The report covers 20 new developments from Sotogrande to Malaga, showcasing the region’s thriving market, with most projects priced between €1 and €3 million.
International buyers, including entrepreneurs, exe -
cutives, and celebrities, are driving demand for these premium properties. Benjamin Beza, Sales Director at The Agency Marbella, notes that the market is enjoying
strong interest from clients seeking both investment opportunities and primary or secondary residences.
Highlights include the Karl Lagerfeld villas on the Gol -
New EU entry-exit system explained for Britons in Spain
THE British Embassy in Spain is urging British nationals residing in Spain to be aware of the newly published information on the European Union’s Entry-Exit System (EES). This system will be implemented later this year and will impact travel procedures for non-EU citizens, including Britons.
The EES is a new automated system at EU borders designed to register non-EU short-stay travellers. Entering Spain will require providing:
Name
Passport details
Biometric data (fingerprints and facial image)
Date and place of entry and exit
This replaces the current passport stamping process. Data will be stored for three years, eliminating the need for repetitive registration on return visits within that timeframe.
Are you aware of new guidelines from the British Embassy in Spain?
British residents in the EU are exempt from EES registration if they hold a valid biometric residency card, known as a TIE card in Spain.
The non-biometric Green Certificate, while a valid residency document in Spain, will not be recognised under the EES as it predates Brexit and is not included in the Withdrawal Agreement.
Holders of Green Certificates:
May not be exempt from EES registration.
Risk facing delays and difficulties at borders, especially in other EU countries.
The embassy strongly advises anyone still using a Green Certificate to obtain a TIE card as soon as possible before the EES launch this autumn.
den Mile and Lamborghini’s 53 villas in Benahavis, with prices ranging from €3.6 to €8.4 million. Other notable projects are UNO Beach Residences and Dunique,
which continue to attract attention for their innovative designs and luxury amenities.
Beyond villas, the report also examines residential complexes like The Sapphire in Estepona and Palo Alto in Ojen, offering luxury apartments and exclusive services. Prices for these developments range from €800,000 to over €10 million.
The Costa del Sol’s luxury market is expanding beyond traditional areas like the Golden Mile, now spanning from Sotogrande to Malaga City. This sustained growth and continuous property appreciation keep the region as a top destination for luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.
or visit www.belleside.com.
THE AGENCY MARBELLA TEAM
Monument vandalised
ON the anniversary of her arrest by Nazis, August 4, 1944, exactly 80 years to the day, Anne Frank’s monument in Amsterdam was smeared with bloodred paint and the slogan ‘Free Gaza’.
The Diary of Anne Frank became a ‘mustread’ and a societal vow to never again permit the horrors of Nazi barbarity in Europe. Yet here we are just eight decades later and a modest memorial reminding the World of her plight and that of all Jews across Europe, per -
secuted and senselessly slaughtered for nothing more than their family heritage, we find anti-Semitism returns to a Europe that has seemingly forgotten its vow.
According to local television news, this was the second time in the space of a month that the solemn little statue had been daubed with red paint. While an investigation has been launched, no suspects have been identified.
In the wake of the bellic horrors taking place in
AC vendetta
ITALY’s wealthiest municipality, Portofino has been seeing an increase in heat, with temperatures rising as high as 32 degrees Celsius; the neighbours, meanwhile, are having heated arguments over reporting each other to the lo cal police.
Gaza, Anti-Semitism has reared its ugly head once more around Europe to everyone’s shock and dismay. Mayor of Amsterdam, Femke Halsema, has been quoted as saying “No Palestinian has been helped by smearing her so precious statue.” She said on her Instagram account “This young girl, who was so brutally murdered by the Nazis at the age of 15, reminds us and our city every day of humanity and gentleness, in the most difficult circumstances.”
Portofino has been part of a regional national park since 1935, and until a few years ago, it entirely pro hibited the ins tallation of air con ditioning units. With the rise in the stifling heat, the authorities lifted the restrictions, as long as the homeowners received permission and ensured a discreet placement of air-con units, without tainting Portofino’s glamour.
At least 37 reports have been received about illegally installed air-cons between January and June.
The fines reach as much as €43,000 if prosecuted in court, although Portofino mayor Matteo Viacava said that the authorities aim to avoid fining people; “We just want to ensure that the constraints are respected and beauty of Portofino is maintained. They need to be put in places that are not visible. Slowly, we are getting it all in order.”
Local news -
Corriere
who denounce each other to the police. While some residents hide their AC units, disguising them by painting them in colours of the local surroundings, some people have reported to have played host to their neighbours, only to find them secretly taking a photo of an illegally set air-con unit and forwarding it to the police.
Anne Frank’s memorial statue in Amsterdam vandalised.
Credit: Joop Soesan, X.
paper
della Sera reported the ‘vendetta’ within Portofino neighbours,
Portofino neighbourhood.
Credit: Irene Grassi, Flickr
PETS
Dylan loves his pet-sitters
DYLAN is a feisty fellow and his owners now find it easier to leave him in the care of checked pet-sitters when they travel away from home. They find that he is happier at home rather than in the car or on a plane with them on holiday. Does your pet need pet-sitters at home too?
By joining a house-sitting platform like HouseSitMatch we facilitate an old-fashioned barter exchange where a pet owner provides the pet-sitter with free accommodation and the sitter cares for the pets and property with due care and attention, just like old fashioned barter.
Plus HouseSitMatch Saves Money because the Pet-sitting is Free!
If you use HouseSitMatch.com you find free checked pet-sitters who pay their way to stay in your home caring for your pets in your absence. It’s an arrangement facilitated by a managed online system. Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services - free accommodation for free pet care!
HouseSitMatch is Safe - All Members Are Checked
All members are checked for safety, you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence. Your pets stay at home - Safe and Undisturbed
All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind for you and your pets. If you’re travelling in 2024 join now and get organised today:
1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online
3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home
4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.
Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent
My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks…
Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters.
Tom C - homeowner in Mojacar
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com
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Why do Cats hit each other?
CATS hitting each other is a common behaviour rooted in their natural instincts and social dynamics. Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour can help cat owners manage and reduce conflicts.
One primary reason cats hit each other is territoriality. Cats are inherently territorial animals and may use hitting as a way to establish dominance or defend their space. This is especially common when a new cat is introduced to the household.
Play-fighting is another reason. Young cats and kittens often engage in hitting as part of their play,
which helps them develop essential hunting and defence skills. These interactions, though sometimes appearing aggressive, are usually harmless and part of their social learning.
Stress and redirected aggression can also cause cats to hit each other. If a cat feels threatened or stressed by an external factor, such as another animal outside, it might redirect its aggression towards a nearby cat.
Understanding these motivations can help owners create a more harmonious environment, reducing the likelihood of aggressive encounters.
Meet Dylan the Corgi, he loves it when the pet-sitters come to stay.
WINDOWS
Bargain luxury-cars
DRUG-related auctions
might be just what you need to get the luxury car of your dreams.
Buying a car at a drug-related auction gives you the opportunity to purchase a high-end vehicle at a price well below market value.
The cars may have a sketchy past, but they are still high-end, in good condition, and at competitive prices.
The Government’s Delegation for the National Plan on Drugs (DGPNSD) acquire vehicles confir-
the costs incurred in the fight against drug trafficking.
The DGPNSD administers the Confiscated Assets Fund, which is supported by the revenue from the auction.
Vehicles are always inspected and sometimes restored before being put up for sale.
The positive impact of these auctions is reflected in the Confiscated Assets Fund, which distributes its income to research, prosecution and repression
of illegal drug trafficking, as well as for the assistance and social and labour integration of drug addicts.
To get your next luxury car, Escrapalia, part of the Surus Inversa Group, has established itself firmly as a leader in the industrial auction market in Spain.
Escrapalia offers a variety of cars from different sources, including those confiscated in anti-drug operations; among the list sold before is a Chevrolet Corvette and a Mercedes-Benz 170S-T.
Ford patents new camera system
FORD has recently pa tented a ground breaking camera system designed to report speeding vehicles to the police automatically. This innovative te chnology could soon become a standard fea ture in cars, potentially revo lutionising traffic law enforcement.
How it Works:
The system uses advanced cameras and sensors integrated into the vehicle to monitor the speed in real-time. By cross-referencing the car’s speed with the local speed limits, the system can detect when a driver is exceeding the legal limit. If a violation is detected, the system can automatically transmit this information, including the vehicle’s location and speed, to law enforcement authorities.
Implications for Drivers:
This new technology aims to enhance road safety by deterring speeding through the threat of immediate reporting. However, it also raises concerns about privacy and the extent of surveillance drivers are subjected to. Critics argue that constant monitoring could
lead to overreach and potentially misuse of the data collected.
Potential Benefits:
Proponents believe that this system could significantly reduce speeding incidents, thereby lowering the number of traffic accidents and fatalities. It could also streamline the process of issuing fines, making it more efficient and reducing the workload for police officers.
Conclusion:
As Ford moves forward with this patented technology, it sparks a broader conversation about the balance between safety and privacy on the roads. Whether this system will be welcomed by drivers or face resistance remains to be seen, but its potential impact on traffic law enforcement is undeniable.
Alloy wheel cleaning tips
KEEPING alloy wheels pristine can be a challenge, but this approach not only saves time but also ensures a professional finish.
Begin by rinsing the wheels with a pressure washer. This powerful tool blasts away loose dirt and grime, making the subsequent cleaning steps more effective. Ensure the wheels are thoroughly soaked to loosen stubborn debris.
Next, apply a specialised alloy wheel cleaner. Modern formulations are designed to break down brake dust, oil, and road grime without damaging the finish. Spray the cleaner generously and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the dirt.
The key to quick and thorough cleaning lies in using an electric wheel brush. This gadget features rotating bristles that
effortlessly scrub away grime, reaching into crevices and tight spots that are hard to clean manually. Move the brush around the wheel, ensuring all areas are covered. Finish off by giving the wheels another blast with the pressure washer to rinse away the loosened dirt. Dry the wheels with a microfibre cloth to prevent water spots, leaving them sparkling clean.
Buying a car connected to crime might not be your first decision, but it could be your best.
Credit: Wikicommons
Honda e:Ny1 - company’s first pure EV
By Mark Slack ROAD TEST
HONDA are known for discreet style, engineering excellence and build quality. It’s not therefore surprising that one might expect Honda’s first pure EV to be a bit of a game changer despite the now well established competition in the EV sector. Hence the arrival of Honda’s e:Ny1 heralded an expectation of EV innovation and standard setting.
It’s fair to say that the e:Ny1 wasn’t the game changer I was expecting, it’s a typical Honda in terms of the quality and levels of equipment ie an excellent package. Where it doesn’t quite cut it is in terms of the range at just 411km/256 miles, and in the real world it will be less than this stated figure.
an awful lot of good stuff too. There are two versions - Elegance and Ad-
Facts at a Glance
The e:Ny1 would be a fine vehicle to use as your local commuter car, work, school, the weekly shop etc. Anything further than 160km/100 miles each way though, and you run into looking at the very expensive public charging network. In a car that costs €47,512/£40,645 a range of just 411km/256 miles isn’t great. Thankfully being a Honda there’s
Model: Honda e:Ny1 Elegance
vance - with prices at €47,512/£40,645 and €50,084/£42,845 respectively. The
Engine: Battery electric – 150kw electric motor with 68 kwh battery
Gears: Automatic
Price: €47,512/£40,645
Performance: 100kph/62mph in 7.7 seconds Max speed 160kph/100mph
Range: 411km/256 miles
Emissions: 0
Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets
levels of equipment are superb with standard fare including heated seats, keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors, rear parking camera, eight-way power driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, Apple Car Play and Android Auto along with a 25cm/10 inch driver’s display and 38cm/15 inch central display screen.
Move up a level and you gain a very clever parking pilot that finds you a space and parks the e:Ny1 for you. There’s also a superb panoramic roof, power tailgate, 360 degree camera and heated steering wheel. It’s a mightily impressive list and various option packs are available at extra cost.
On the road the Honda is effortless and very comfortable with a reassuring driving feel as one would expect from Honda. On the charging front the range may not be that great but it will charge at home from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just six hours, or if you find one of those fast chargers you can put in 96km/60 miles of range in just 11 minutes.
Despite the surprise and slight disappointment about the e:Ny1’s range there’s still much to commend it, there are few places that would be as pleasant for your daily motoring excursions.
Walking Football coming home to Spain
WALKING FOOTBALL
governing body has just announced that Spain has been successful in its bid to host the 2025 World Nations Cup.
This is amazing news for the sport as well as Mark Coleman and Mark Kavanagh who put the Spanish bid together. Federation of International Walking Football Associations (FIWFA) announced on August 10, that Alicante will be the host of next year’s October tournament. Paul Carr, CEO and founder of the league has put his trust in Spain this time round.
But, what is Walking Football?, I hear some of you ask. The game, which can be played indoors or out, has grown massively in recent years from its humble beginnings as a bit of fun to keep the over-50s
active. Until, that was, a documentary on broadcast on Sky Sports in 2017 led to many clubs forming teams. Since then, it has become a massive craze with teams starting up all over the world. Based on the fundamentals of traditional football, there are some notable differences: If a player runs or kicks the ball over head height, that incurs a free kick for the opposing team. The idea is to promote
cardio-vascular fitness while avoiding undue stress on the body, making this a much less aggressive and a more friendly competitive sport.
Similar walking sports include Walking Rugby, Walking Basketball, and even Walking Netball. I think I may have found my sport. Congratulations to Team Spain for the good news. We look forward to covering the 2025 World Nations Cup next year.
Fastest on the planet
A SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD from Northern Ireland has just been named the fas test racing driver on the planet by Red Bull.
Fionn McLaughlin, from Magherafelt, Londonderry, has been identified by Red Bull racing as one of the fastest racing drivers and selected as one of two drivers to join the Red Bull Junior Driver team.
Fionn McLaughlin was one of 11 candidates invited to a competitive evaluation week, seeing other young racers from the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, Lebanon and Mexico.
Team GB in Paris
THE Paris 2024 Olympic Games have come to an end and it has been a whirlwind for Team GB.
Great Britain arrived with 327 athletes for the Olympic Games and, in total, 131 of them returned home with medals around their necks, with more medals than they had in Tokyo.
After more than two weeks of intensity, Team GB won 14 gold medals, 22 silver medals and 29 bronze medals.
In total, Great Britain took home 65 medals, one more than they had in the last Olympics.
Ranking all the participating countries by total medals won, this places Team GB in third, above the host coun try, France, but below China and USA, who won the most.
Britain’s perfor mance at the Paris Olympics was triumphant and certainly deserves celebration.
Andy Anson, the British Olympic Association’s chief execu-
tive pointed out that Great Britain “passed 1,000 medals in the Olympics during this Games, which was a big moment. Sixty-five medals is our second-best-ever tally on foreign soil,” added Anson, “So that’s something incredible to celebrate.”
There were some low points, with swimmer Adam Peaty catching Covid, and Kate French having to pull out for gastric reasons.
However, there were also some incredible highs; Track and field was one of the biggest of Britain’s successes, with 10 medals overall, the best since the Los Angeles 1984
The teenager will be joining the elite Red Bull programme, which has stated its aim of ‘finding the next F1 world champion’.
The programme has already proven a success in the past, with five former Red Bull Junior Team drivers winning a Formula One race; Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Max Verstappen, Pierre Gasly and Carlos Sainz Jr. Max Verstappen has won three World Championships each, and Se-
bastian Vettel, the teenagers’ inspiration, has won four World Drivers.
“The driver that got me into racing was Sebastian Vettel,” said McLaughlin, adding “He has always been an inspiration to me.”
The prospective young drivers tested and promoted their skills over the three-day event, in a shootout format at the Jerez circuit in Spain.
Fionn McLaughlin said that his “goal in racing is to be a world champion,” stating that “I never give up. I work hard until I’m at the top. I will keep working until I’m there.”
Team GB have had a tumultuous and triumphant time at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Fionn McLaughlin has already made his mark in the F1 scene, recognised by Red Bull as one of the fastest racing drivers.
Credit: Fionn McLaughlin /fb
Spain to host 2025 World Nations Cup Walking Football.
Credit: Odedbre Wikipedia CC
