SPANISH royal, 18-year-old Princess Leonor, was spotted driving through the streets of Palma last week without displaying the ‘L’ Plate legally required for new drivers.
Leonor, the daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, was on holiday with her mother, grandmother and sister, and took control of the wheel of the family’s Seat Ateca, having only recently gained her driving licence, which she needs for her military training in Zaragoza.
Despite her royal status, the princess is not immune to the law and she will now face a fine of up to €100 for failing to adhere to regulations and forgetting to display the important ‘L’ Plate. However, she will not have any points deducted from her driving licence.
Princess Leonor was granted the full title of heir to the Spanish crown following her father’s
NORMAN REEDUS, star of ‘The Walking Dead’, is spending some time in Mallorca before filming starts for the long awaited third season of popular show Daryl Dixon, which will be filmed in various locations across Spain.
The famous actor was out and about over the weekend, and enjoyed dinner with his family at Palma based restaurant Sandro’s on Saturday evening. The restaurant has a history of celebrity diners, including Morgan Freeman and King Felipe VI, and as a consequence has been well publicised on TV shows and in the press. Following Reedus’ visit, the restaurant posted a photo on Facebook, saying how delighted they were to have had the company of Reedus and his family and to share with them their passion for good food.
ascension to the throne in 2014 and was formally proclaimed heir presumptive on her 18th birthday. She studied for an International Baccalaureate at UWC Atlantic College in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wa-
les, before beginning her military training in August last year. She is set to become the first female monarch since Isabella II, her fourth great-grandmother, who reigned between 1833 and 1868.
German police reinforcement Walking Dead
THE National Police has called in six more German officers to work in the Playa de Palma until the end of the season, with the aim of creating a stronger security system and improving public safety. The operation, which usually begins in July, has been delayed this year due to the Paris Olympic Games and the European Championships, aims both to reduce crime and encourage socially acceptable behaviour.
The scheme has proven in the past to be an effective way of reinforcing good behaviour amongst tourists who, when enjoying their holiday in Mallorca, can lose their inhibitions a little too much and behave in ways they would not when back in their homeland.
Seeing the uniform of their own national police serves to remind the tourists of their morals and also creates a feeling of security, with the knowledge that they will be able to communicate effectively if needed.
Mallorca • Issue No.
Norman Reedus at Sandro’s Restaurant, Palma.
Princess Leonor driving.
Summer nights
SUMMER evenings in Mallorca can be the best part of the day. A stroll along the beach as the sun sets and the temperatures cool, feeling the sand between your toes and the warm water of the Mediterranean Sea lapping at your feet, or sipping a cocktail on the terrace of a local bar, enjoying some cool tunes and chattering with friends, can be perfect ways to relax.
But if you are looking for something a bit different, why not head out and about and explore what the island has to offer.
There’s still one more opportunity to experience the glamour of the Puerto Portals Sunset Market, which is being held for the last time this summer from 18.00 - 00.00 on Thursday August 15. Expect over 20 stalls offering a selection of fashion, art and decoration in this stunning location, accompanied by live music and children’s entertain-
ment.
Los Dos Caballeros Winery (situated between Inca and Llubì) holds outdoor cinema events every other Thursday throughout the summer, showcasing popular films in English with Spanish subtitles. Still to come are Forrest Gump on August 22 and The Shawshank Redemption on September 5. Tickets can be obtained via Eventbrite and include a beanbag, popcorn and a glass of the vineyard’s own wine.
For music, as part of the Deía International Music Festival, classical concerts are held every Wednesday throughout the summer at Son Marroig Country House, and the yearly Sa Pobla Jazz Festival still has a couple of concerts planned before the season finishes on August 22.
It’s always worth checking out planned events locally, you never know what you might find!
A FIRE broke out in a residential property on Calle Metge Reynes in Alcudia on Saturday August 10. Two dogs were safely rescued from the building’s terrace. Emergency services were alerted to the incident shortly after 3pm, with plumes of smoke drawing attention from neighbours. Upon arrival, Local Police confirmed that the property was unoccupied but were met with the distressed barks of two dogs trapped inside.
Cruise industry’s false climate solution?
PALMA is facing pivotal questions about the access it allows to large cruise liners.
As the cruise industry deals with increasing environmental scrutiny, many operators are turning to liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a purportedly cleaner alternative to traditional heavy fuel oil.
With 38 per cent of global cruise ship orders now opting for LNG-powered vessels, the industry seems to be embracing a greener future. However, environmental experts warn that this shift may be a false solution.
While LNG does produce fewer pollutants and carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned compared to heavy fuel oil, its Achilles’ heel lies in methane emissions.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is a significant component of LNG. Even small leaks during the extraction, transportation, and combustion processes can negate the potential climate benefits of the fuel. Studies have shown that methane slips from LNG engines can make these
Two dogs rescued
Firefighters swiftly arrived on the scene and worked to extinguish the flames, which are believed to have originated from an electrical fault. The blaze was brought under control within minutes, and the street was temporarily closed to facilitate the operation.
ships more harmful to the climate than their traditional fuel-burning counterparts.
Environmental groups are calling for stricter regulations on methane emissions from LNG-powered ships. They argue that the industry should focus on developing and adopting
Following the fire, firefighters ventilated the property, which has been sealed off pending further investigation. The Guardi Civil has taken charge of the case, and while the official cause of the fire is yet to be determined, initial indications point to an electrical short circuit.
truly zero-emission technologies, such as hydrogen or electric propulsion, to address the growing climate crisis.
As the pressure mounts on the cruise industry to reduce its environmental impact, the effectiveness of LNG as a transitional fuel remains a subject of intense debate.
Cruise liners are frequent visitors to Palma port.
A fire in Alcudia resulted in the rescue of two pets.
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.
Droughts are becoming more frequent.
Trying to find shade in the heat.
Credit: Oleksandr P, Pexels
Half sunk Goods crackdown
MALLORCA has become a battleground in the fight against counterfeit goods, with authorities seizing two tonnes of fake products destined for the island.
The National Police uncovered a sophisticated operation importing counterfeit goods from Asia.
FIVE people were rescued from a sinking yacht on the morning of Saturday August 10, near Camp de Mar in Andratx, Mallorca.
The investigation centred on three logistics companies unknowingly involved in the distribution of these products.
ches in a single warehouse. The haul also included high-quality replicas of designer handbags and a surprising batch of 100 fake headphones. While the total value of the seized goods is still being assessed, initial estimates place the potential earnings from football shirts and headphones alone at a combined €155,000.
Around 10am, Port Adriano in Calvia issued an emergency alert when noticing that a yacht carrying five people had partially sunk in the sea. The Maritime Safety Agency immediately activated one of its boats as Local Police made their way to the scene.
However, before the emergency services could get there, a private boat was able to pick up the five people onboard, including a German couple and their son. The group was sent back to Port Adriano safely.
Neither the local authorities nor the Best Brands yacht released a statement about the cause of the sinking and reported no contamination from the yacht. Gradually flooded, the yacht eventually sank to the bottom of the sea by 5pm.
One of these companies, working closely with the police, provided crucial information leading to the seizure of over 5,000 counterfeit football shirts and 1,700 fake luxury wat-
In a separate operation, the Guardia Civil raided five shops in Magaluf, confiscating around 15,000 counterfeit items. This coordinated crackdown highlights the scale of the counterfeit goods problem in Mallorca and the determination of law enforcement to combat it.
Rural inhabitants rise
ONLY a few short years ago, abandoned and dilapidated old buildings were a common sight when exploring the Mallorca countryside. Neglected old farm buildings were simply a part of the landscape.
However, it seems that more and more people are mo ving out of town into properties that have possibly been in the family for years and rarely visited, or have lain dormant, unable to be rented out due to legal restrictions or the amount of work needed to make them habitable.
Dilapidated buildings.
According to a survey done in 2022 by the Centre of Economic Politics of Academic
Institution Esade (EsadeEcPol), the Balearics had an immense 41 per cent increase in rural population across the whole of Spain, being beaten only by Madrid and the Canary Isles [Europa Press, Última Hora, 12/02/2022].
This number could now see an even more
significant increase due to a new procedure for legalising constructions on rural land, which was brought out in May of this year and has a limited duration of just three years. The legislation covers the whole of the Balearics, not just Mallorca, and will allow for prescribed construction of buildings which have been long exempt from meeting current planning parameters.
Home owners will be required to pay a fee in order to legalise, which will rise yearly, and properties developed will not be permitted to be used as tourist rentals.
Sinking yacht in Andratx, Mallorca.
This summer has seen a coordinated effort to seize counterfeit goods.
Balearic Islands dominate luxury property market
ACCORDING to a recent study by property website Fotocasa, the Balearic Islands is one of Spain’s most exclusive coastal regions for property ownership. Six of the 10 most expensive coastal municipalities in the entire country are located on the islands.
Andratx secures the second spot on the list, boasting an average property price of €6,672 per square metre. Calvia also makes the top 10, coming in at fifth with an average of €6,014 per square metre. These figures confirm the demand for luxury properties in Mallorca.
Ibiza claims the top spot with an average price of €6,898 per square metre.
Four of the top 10 most expensive coastal municipalities are located on Ibiza.
Rancho Fino: Standing up for those without a voice
SITUATED in the heart of Mallorca, on the outskirts of the municipality of Costitx, is a bustling haven for animals. Rancho Fino, run by Stacey van Tichelt and Sten Bendsen, it is an animal rescue centre with a difference.
Founded accidentally by Stacey eight years ago, when she moved to the island and rescued her first horse, she quickly found herself caught up in the world of animal rescue, as more and more cases of neglect and cruelty came to her attention.
Horrified by the sheer quantity of animals in need, on an island renowned for its wealth and luxury, Stacey began to take in the neglected, unwan -
ted and abandoned animals, entirely at her own expense, both financially and physically. Sacrificing her own needs in order to provide care for the animals with which she shared her life became
Stacey has worked tirelessly to allow her project to evolve, working many jobs and many hours, struggling through personal health issues and relentlessly dedicating her
time, money and emotional energy into offering a safe haven for those who need it most.
Rancho Fino now provides refuge for around 90 animals, consisting of horses, donkeys, dogs, and other farm animals, and all animals under the care of Stacey and Sten live as naturally as possible.
There are no kennels, the equines live in a herd environment with plenty of space to roam, and each animal finally receives the love and care it deserves.
For more information or to make a donation, visit ranchofinomallor ca.com or follow them on Instagram: @ranchofinomallorcarescue and Facebook: Rancho Fino Mallorca.
Tourist assaulted
A BRITISH tourist was assaulted on Saturday night (August 10) in the popular party resort of Magaluf.
The victim, a 20-yearold man who was holidaying in Mallorca with
a friend, found himself the unlucky recipient of the attack at around 02.00 on Sunday morning. The three aggressors approached the two young men on the beach promenade, and grabbed the victim by the neck, before kicking him in the torso and stealing his bum bag.
The action was caught on video by a witness with their mobile phone to hand and served as crucial evidence, showing the violence involved in the assault, when the victim reported it to the Guardia Civil.
Officers were swiftly dispatched in an operation to catch those responsible for the attack, and were able to arrest a 20-year-old man alleged to be of Algerian origin.
A judge ordered the aggressor to be jailed whilst the search for the other two assailants continues.
The victim of the attack escaped without serious injuries and his friend remained unharmed.
the norm.
Stacey with some of her many rescue animals.
The Balearics offer coastal living at a price.
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 priva-
tisation.
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.
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 air -
ports 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.”
Italian beach.
Airport security points.
Credit: TravelSafeBC, Flickr
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.”
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.
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.
More than 700 nudist form a human chain in Tarragona.
Planning your retirement in Spain
When planning to move to Spain your initial focus may be on securing residency, but don’t neglect to research the tax, succession and financial planning implications. Spain can be a more tax-efficient place to live than you realise, but don’t leave your tax planning too late. Here are eight key steps to take before and after your move.
1) Apply for your Spain residence visa
While applying for legal residence in Spain now involves stricter requirements and advance planning, it is generally still possible provided you can support yourself. Retirees can apply for a Spanish non-lucrative visa.
2) Understand the tax implications of living in Spain
You become tax resident if you spend over 183 days in Spain a year, or your centre of economic or vital interests is here. This makes you liable for Spanish income, capital gains and wealth taxes on worldwide income and assets and subject to the succession tax rules.
By Cathal Rochford, Partner, Blevins Franks
3) Timing your move to save tax
The Spanish tax year runs from January to December, whereas the UK is April to April. The two countries apply different capital gains tax rules and rates. Weigh up whether it is better to sell UK assets as a UK or Spanish tax resident, then time your move accordingly.
4) Structure your assets to minimise tax in Spain
A potentially costly mistake is assuming what was tax-efficient in the UK is the same in Spain. ISAs, for example, lose their taxfree status here.
While Spanish taxation can look high, the tax regime presents attractive tax mitigation opportunities. How you hold your assets can impact how much tax you pay.
5) Research how UK pensions are taxed in Spain
For residents of Spain, UK occupational and state pensions are taxed only in Spain. The taxation of UK private pensions is more complicated so take personalised advice. Government service pensions remain liable only to UK tax (though the income is taken into account when determining your Spanish income tax rate on other income).
Pension lump sums are fully taxable in Spain.
6) Analyse your pension options
Review all the available options for your pensions to weigh up which is most suitable for you. For example, you might benefit from consolidating several UK pensions into one to provide a coherent, more cost-effective investment platform for your reti-
rement income.
Transferring UK pensions to an EU Qualifying Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) after you are Spanish tax resident will incur a prohibitive tax charge in Spain. Take advice before you move.
Pension rules frequently change so the appropriate solution today may differ tomorrow, so it is important to take regulated, specialist advice.
7) Reviewing your savings and investments
Once you’re retired and living in Spain, your circumstances and objectives completely change from your UK working days, so take a fresh review of your savings and investments. Ensure your portfolio is suitable for you today, designed to meet your aims and risk appetite, and has adequate diversification to reduce risk.
Consider what currency to hold your savings in – keeping assets in Sterling puts you at the mercy of conversion costs and exchange rate movements.
8) Don’t forget estate planning
The Spanish succession regime varies significantly from the UK’s. Spanish succession tax works very differently from UK inheritance tax and Spain imposes forced heirship, though you can plan ahead to get round this.
A helping hand
It pays to do your research, but taking specialist cross-border advice will prove invaluable. Find a firm who can advise you for the longer-term, on all these aspects, from the planning stages in the UK throughout your new life in Spain, and if you return to the UK in future.
The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.
Dining in Cala d’Or
CALA D’OR boasts a diverse culinary scene, with fresh seafood, authentic Spanish tapas, British and international flavours. Here are some of the best restaurants Cala d’Or has to offer.
S’Ancora: This restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Their menu features an array of fresh fish and shellfish, expertly prepared with a Mediterranean twist. Enjoy your meal on the terrace while soaking up the stunning sea views.
Can Trompe: Known for its exceptional paella, Can Trompe also offers an impressive selection of seafood dishes. Their commitment to using the freshest ingredients shines through in every bite.
El Rincon: For a taste of
traditional Spanish cuisine, head to El Rincon. This charming restaurant serves up classic dishes like tapas, paella, and grilled meats. The cosy atmosphere and friendly service add to the overall experience.
La Vermuteria: If you’re looking for a more laid-back option, La Vermuteria is the perfect spot. Enjoy a glass of vermouth and a selection of small plates while mingling with locals.
Noir Mallorca: For a sophisticated dining expe-
rience, Noir Mallorca is the place to be. This stylish restaurant serves up international cuisine with a modern twist. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it a special occasion destination.
Credit: Shutterstock
Kalypso Tutti Frutti: This lively restaurant is perfect for families and groups. Their menu features a variety of international dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and burgers. The relaxed atmosphere and beachfront location make it a popular choice.
Sunrise and Dolphins:
WITH Alcudia Sea Trips, dolphin lovers can enjoy a magical experience that combines the breathtaking beauty of a Mallorca sunrise with a thrilling encounter with wild dolphins. This is an unforgettable boat trip in
search of playful dolphins gliding through their natural habitat.
Experienced captains ensure a respectful distance is maintained, allowing you to observe the dolphins without causing any disruption.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a fun-filled family outing, or an adventurous experience with friends, this dolphin watching trip ticks all the boxes. A delicious breakfast is included on board.
Alcudia Sea Trips offers a variety of boat tours from tranquil catamaran rides to adrenaline-pumping speedboat adventures.
Stylish coffee
Puerto Portals is a place for coffee connoisseurs with a thriving cafe culture
Cappuccino Puerto Portals
A Puerto Portals institution, Cappuccino is renowned for its elegant ambiance and impeccable service. While it’s a popular spot for lunch and dinner, their coffee menu is equally impressive. From classic espressos to expertly crafted lattes, Cappuccino delivers a consistent-
ly high-quality coffee experience. Their outdoor terrace, overlooking the marina, is the perfect place to people-watch.
The French Coffee Shop
For a touch of French flair, head to The French Coffee Shop. This charming cafe offers a delectable selection of pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, coffee. Their coffee beans are carefully sourced, ensuring a rich and flavourful cup. Enjoy your coffee with a croissant and a leisurely chat in the heart of Puerto Portals.
A Wine tasting adventure
THERE are countless ways to experience Mallorca’s wine culture:
Visit local wineries: Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process.
Join a wine tour: Several tour operators offer wine-focused excursions, taking you to different wineries and providing expert commentary.
Wine and dine: Many restaurants on the island feature extensive wine lists, offering the opportunity to pair delicious food with local wines.
Wine festivals: Mallorca hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, providing a festive atmosphere to enjoy a variety of wines.
To truly appreciate Mallorca’s wine scene, be sure to try these local varieties:
Manto Negro: This robust red grape produces full-bodied wines with rich flavours of dark fruits and spices.
for its crisp, refreshing wines with citrus and floral aromas.
Callet: A versatile grape that can produce both red and white wines, Callet offers a unique and complex flavour profile.
Premsal Blanc: This white grape variety is known
Credit: Shutterstock
Credit: Shutterstock
Your
VOICE
Should people stop going on donkey rides in Spain?
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 (on the Costa del Sol) 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
should be stopped and expressed, “Yes, it should be stopped. Anything that puts animals in a degrading and dangerous situation should be banned.”
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.
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-
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
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
Intl 3.843,0 3.878,0 3.843,0 10,39K
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
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.
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.
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.
Mass tourism in Venice.
Credit: thinktotbot, Flickr
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.
In addition to the anti-ageing benefits, the vegan diet also proved effective for weight loss. Participants lost a significant amount of wei ght 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.
Credit: Jane Trang Doan, Pexels
Hair’s ageing journey
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.
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.
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.
Costa del Sol Ronaldo in Marbella
CRISTIANO RONALDO alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland have been seen training in Marbella.
The Arabian team Al-Nassr, 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 Al-Nassr, 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.
Marbella Football Centre has once again firmly established itself as the pre-season training camp for top-level teams.
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.
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.
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.
PETS
Dog care
Anna Akopyan
WHILE summer is a fun time for the entire family, as pets become thrilled to spend more time with their owners, they face health risks with the rising heat.
Water should always be available to your pets. As they can’t express their thirst, dogs fall under a greater risk of dehydration. With such active lifestyles, dogs should drink between 15-45ml/kg/ day on average. Look out for symptoms of dehydration in your dogs, including the loss of appetite, vomiting, panting, sunken eyes, reduced energy and dry nose. It is also a good idea to let your dog in the pool if possible or sprinkle water on them to cool off.
Unlike us, dogs don’t have the protection of shoes; when walking on sizzling hot pavements in the summer, they experience a terrible amount of pain. It is not just uncomfortable but can also lead to overheating and even heat strokes.
To see whether the pavement is too hot for your dog, use a simple five-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the pavement; if you can’t keep it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
It is absolutely prohibited to leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short time; it will inevitably lead to a heat stroke and could even result in death.
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
Why do Cats hit each other?
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.
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:
Meet Dylan the Corgi, he loves it when the pet-sitters come to stay.
1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online
3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home
4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.
Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent
My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks… Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters.
Tom C - homeowner in Mojacar
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com
Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation! Reader exclusive offer - 20% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 20% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.
Credit: Anna Akopyan
Credit: Shutterstock
&
PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)
CAR HIRE
LEOCAR, CAR HIRE. Free airport service and competitive e rates!. www.leocar.com. Mobile 0034 609 622 746 (296370) FOR SALE/WANTED
STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.com
GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)
WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel678 716 693 (288662)
WE ARE currently the market
leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)
OTHERS
EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis , Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394
Madrid veteran star Pepe retires
FOOTBALL legend Pepe has announced his retirement via an official statement through the Real Madrid website and so cial media.
‘In view of Pepe’s an nouncement of his reti rement from football as a professional player, Real Madrid would like to ex press its gratitude, affec tion and admiration for one of the great legends of our club and world football,’ the statement said.
A team member from 2007 to 2017 he won everything with the club. Over 10 seasons he won 14 titles in 334 matches including three European Cups, two Club World Cups, two European Su per Cups, three La Ligas, two Copa del Reys and
two Spanish Super Cups. Brazil-born Pepe was said by the club to have “been one of the greatest
achievements with FC Porto which include four league titles.
One of the best defenders ever in Real Madrid and European football, he became the Champions League’s oldest goalscorer last year scoring for Porto against Antwerp, continuing to play at the highest level until the
Writing on Instagram, Cristiano Ronaldo said “We won everything there was to win on the pitch, but the biggest triumph is the friendship and the respect I have for you. You’re unique, my brother.”
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
Pepe playing for his adopted country, Portugal.
Team GB have had a tumultuous and triumphant time at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
