Costa Blanca North 29 Aug – 4 Sept 2024 Issue 2043

Donna Williams

ON Sunday August 25, Albir was abuzz with the 14th edition of the Costa Blanca Bike Show. The Eucalyptus Park of Albir came alive as it hosted a thrilling gathering of over 1,000 motorcycles, with the iconic Harley Davidson brand taking the lead. The central park of Albir was transformed into a motorcycle paradise, attracting enthusiasts and the public with its unique charm.

Sandra Gomez, the councillor of Festivities and Traditions extended her congratulations to the event organisers. She was joined by councillors Oscar Perez and Cesar Marinez who were seen soaking up the fantastic atmosphere. The streets of Albir vibrated with the spectacle of the motorcycles parading through, captivating everyone’s attention, especially motoring and motorcycle a cionados.

The event was a true celebration of the motorcycle culture, o ering a diverse display that catered to all

Live to Ride!

tastes. From classic Harley Davidson models to an exciting lineup of other brands, the event had something for everyone. The day kicked o at 9.00am with the arrival of the motorcycles, a sight to behold,

and then revved up with the opening of a lunch bar at the Eucalyptus Park. Adding to the excitement, various groups performed live musical performances on stage, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for all who attended.

on stage,

Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2043 • 29 Aug - 4 Sept 2024 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS

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Costa Blanca Bike Show.

Credit:lalfas.es

Tourist housing

THE demand for tourist accommodations in Calpe has been steadily increasing, with a notable rise in the number of certificate applications for tourist housing.

A recent study conducted by the municipal department of Territory revealed that in the first eight months of this year alone, 985 applications for certificates were received, surpassing the total number of requests for the entire previous year.

The analysis, based on data from the town council’s file manager and the Tourism Community of Valencia, shows a significant growth trend since 2017, with 441 tourist housing certificates requested in 2017, 671 in 2019, 630 in 2022, and 932 in 2023.

The only exceptions to this growth trend were in 2020 and 2021,

likely due to the impact of the pandemic.

Recognising the implications of this rapid growth, Calpe Town Council has taken proactive measures by establishing a working group to address the housing situation in the area. The group, consisting of technical experts, policymakers, and industry representatives, aims to explore potential solutions wi -

thin the scope of municipal authority to ensure access to affordable and decent housing.

One of the key concerns highlighted so far is the need to regulate and limit the expansion of tourist housing. To this end, the town council has already implemented measures such as suspending the conversion of commercial premises into housing.

Cat sterilisation

Donna Williams THE Animal Wel fare and Health Department of Altea Town Council has been awarded a grant of €4,285.71 by the Alicante Provincial Council. This grant will form a crucial step towards funding the sterili sation of cats in urban colonies without owners, a task vital for the welfare of these animals and the community.

This initiative aims to improve the welfare and sanitary conditions of these animals and prevent public health issues related to uncontrolled feline populations. Ana Cabrera, the Municipal Health Technician, has organised the sterilisation campaign, which enjoys the support of animal protection associations and dedicated volunteers.

Mayor Anna Lanuza stressed the importance of complying with the Ani -

mal Welfare Law and expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the associations and volunteers. She said, “This shared responsibility in managing feline colonies, controlling stray cats, and ensuring the well-being of the animals and citizens is a testament to our community’s dedication to this cause.”

Additionally, Mayor Lanuza emphasised the need for strict adherence to the Animal Welfare Law. She stressed that only authorised individuals should be involved in feeding and caring for the animals, and that this underscores the importance of respecting and appreciating those who contribute to this cause. This commitment to compliance is crucial for the success of the campaign and the well-being of the animals and citizens.

Apartment blocks on the coastline of Calpe.

Stray cats are being sterilised in Altea.

Credit: alteadigital.es

Destination Dupes

AS the end of summer approaches, many holidaymakers will be gearing up for a last-minute getaway. For those on a budget, a new trend is gaining momentum across Europe, ‘destination dupes’. These are lesser-known, budget-friendly alternatives to some of the continent’s most popular and invariably overcrowded tourist spots.

This trend offers a perfect opportunity to explore new locations with the

same charm, beauty and cultural richness without the hefty price tags and overwhelming crowds. The concept of destination dupes is similar to the widespread fashion/ designer dupe phenomenon, where affordable alternatives to high-end products become the goto choice.

According to some travel experts, the demand for these alternative destinations stems from a growing desire among travellers to avoid the

drawbacks of tourist hotspots. These include long queues, inflated prices, and fully booked accommodations, which have become increasingly common in Europe’s most visited cities, particularly this year.

Travellers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences in quieter, less commercialised areas, driven by a combination of cost-effectiveness and the desire for a more intimate travel experience.

Melanie Fish, Chief Trend Tracker for Expedia Brands said, “Dupes are like cheaper versions of luxury brands. They are destinations that are a little unexpected, sometimes more affordable, but every bit as delightful as the tried-and-true places travellers love.”

Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach getaway, an exciting city break, or a scenic countryside retreat, there’s a destination dupe waiting to be discovered.

2024 European Dupes

SOME European Dupes to consider: Santorini: Paros o ers the iconic whitewashed buildings and the stunning Aegean Sea views that Santorini is famous for without the overwhelming tourist in ux.

Dalmatia: For the Croatian coast head to Istria instead of Split and Dubrovnik. Known for its picturesque towns like Rovinj, Istria o ers stunning Adriatic views, historical sites, and excellent cuisine at a fraction of the cost and with fewer tourists.

Stockholm: Stockholm is fantastic, but Bergen o ers similar Scandinavian charm, with colourful wooden houses, rich maritime history, a vibrant cultural scene, and a beautiful mountain backdrop.

London: London is often the rst city people think of when it comes to the UK, but Liverpool o ers a comparable experience with its own northern twist. It’s home to The Beatles, has a thriving arts scene, and has a rich naval history. It also o ers a more a ordable and less crowded cultural hub with its museums, galleries, and vibrant waterfront.

Lisbon: As Lisbon’s popularity has risen, so have prices and tourist numbers. Palermo, the capital of Sicily, o ers a similar blend of history, architecture, and vibrant street life but is less popular with tourists.

Sevilla: Sevilla is popular for Andalucian charm, but Cordoba o ers a rich experience without the crowds. It’s home to the iconic Mezquita and embodies the essence of southern Spain.

SOME things to consider to make the most of your ‘destination dupe’

Do your research: When planning your trip to less popular destinations, it’s essential to conduct thorough research. For example, looking into accommodation options, transportation, and local attractions. Travel off-peak: To save money and avoid large crowds, consider travelling during the off-peak season. This can further reduce costs and provide a more serene travel experience.

Engage with locals: To truly immerse yourself in these destinations, try to engage with the local community. Take advantage of local markets, guided tours, and cultural events to interact with residents and gain a deeper understanding of the area. Engaging with locals will enrich your travel experience and create lasting memories.

Discover a destination dupe for a quiet beach getaway.

Credit: Shutterstock: song_about-summer

Cordoba, a destination dupe for Sevilla.

Credit: Pixabay

Water-saving measures

Donna Williams

THE Callosa d’en Sarria Department of Water has launched a ‘water-saving’ campaign with 11 measures that residents need to undertake to conserve water. This is in response to the region’s current severe drought, and the key message is that ‘saving drop by drop is essential’.

In summary, the measures require citizens to do the following:

1. Be mindful of water usage and use only what they need.

2. Shower instead of taking a bath to save water.

3. Turn o the

teeth and use a small basin for hand-washing.

4. Use a trash can instead of the toilet for disposing of small items, such as cigarette butts.

5. Fix water leaks to prevent water wastage.

6. Avoid rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.

7. Always ll the washing machine and dishwasher to the top to save water and energy.

8. Refrigerate a bottle of water to avoid letting the tap run for cold water.

9. Use ow reducers or aerators on faucets to save water.

10. If they need to purchase new appliances, opt for those that are the most energy-e cient.

11. Water outdoor plants at night to reduce evaporation.

Speaking on the issue, a representative from the town council said, “We think it will help if everyone changes their habits and attitudes towards their daily use of water, and this will allow us to save on this essential resource.”

Voice of the People

EACH year, the Presentation of Captaincies, a significant event in the El Campello cultural calendar, takes place on the final weekend of August. This year, it falls on Saturday August 31 and will occur at the El Campello Municipal Park, commencing at 9.00pm.

This marks the beginning of the prelude to the highly anticipated Moors and Christians festivities, which are scheduled for mid-October. It’s a poignant moment as the outgoing festivity participants pass the baton to their successors, who will be the focus of the upcoming Moors and Christians fiesta.

During the event, the troupes Jaume I (representing the Christian side) and Zaidies (representing the Moorish side) will make way for the new captain-

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cies, Marinos (Christian side) and Marrocs (Moorish side), in a captivating show titled ‘La veu del poble’. While the event protocol remains largely consistent each year, the staging and theme of the show are rejuvenated annually by the captaincies, ensuring a fresh and surprising approach.

During the event, the award for the winning

Fiesta poster design, ‘Trabuca’, will be presented.

The designer of this year’s winning poster is Franciso Gracia Terol, who chose to highlight the crucial role of the festers who fire their blunderbusses during the Moors and Christians Fiesta. This emphasises the significant contribution of the festers to the festival overall.

Water is a precious commodity in Callosa d’en Sarria.

Presentation of the Captaincies.

FOR those who are unaware, the Guardian Angels is a non-religious charity situated in Costa Blanca North that was founded in 2010. Their main goal is to offer support and comfort to single-parent households who often experience the burden of loneliness.

Their dedicated team, always ready and willing, stands prepared to provide a wide range of support services, including mentoring, counselling, legal advice, medical assistance, and language translation.

They also organise workshops aimed at nurturing the self-esteem of both parents and children, while addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with single-han-

dedly raising a family.

As with any other non-profit, the service is run entirely on the generosity of the public and with this in mind, they are hosting an unforgettable evening at The Marriot La Sella Golf Resort in Denia on September 28, from 7.00pm.

SAMU health workers saved a 95-year-old woman’s life after she suffered a cardiac arrest in a swimming pool in La Villajoyosa. The Emergency Information and Coordination Centre (CICU) reported that the events took place at 4.00pm on Thursday August 22 when they received a call for assistance for a woman who had been found unconscious in a swimming pool in a residential area of the municipality.

Life saved Guardian Angels

This ‘Dress to Impress’ Ball is one of their most prestigious fundraisers and includes a cava reception, music from the Poco Loco steel band, a four-course meal with wine, beer or a soft drink, and live entertainment from The Entertainers and the Moonshine Duo.

There will also be lots of opportunities to help raise funds for the single parents they support and mentor. This includes a raffle and an auction with plenty of exciting Lots to bid on. Although selling fast, there are a few tickets available, priced at €60 per person. Likewise, the hotel has a few rooms vacant for overnight stays. Those interested in attending should email Michelle Lawrence-Sinko at michelle@guardian-ange ls.es or send a WhatsApp to 0034 638 258 377.

Upon receiving the call, the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) quickly mobilised a SAMU (emergency medical services) unit. The highly skilled medical team from SAMU performed advanced car -

diopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) manoeuvres and utilised other advanced stabilisation techniques on the woman. Thanks to their swift and expert actions, they were able to reverse the cardiac arrest successfully.

Once her condition was stabilised, the woman was transferred to the Marina Baixa Hospital of La Villajoyosa in a SAMU ambulance. This was to enable her to be thoroughly checked over on account of her recovery from a cardiac arrest and exhibiting symptoms of drowning.

Guardian Angels support single-parent households.

WHO would have imagined a whole fortnight dedicated to celebrating the langoustine’s greatness? Yet, here we are in Gandia, where 21 local restaurants are set to showcase the unique gastronomic delights of this delicacy.

From August 31 to September 15, these establishments will unveil their best interpretations, with the langoustine taking centre stage. Each dish is a testament to the exquisite qualities of this seafood, its flavour and texture elevated through innovative culinary techniques.

This event, a joint effort

Gastronomic delights

between regional association Desti Safor and Balbina Sendra, the councillor for Culture and Tourism, is a significant step towards pro-

THREE individuals who are suspected of captaining two of the five boats intercepted on the Provincial coasts on Monday August 19 have been detained and imprisoned. These boats arrived in Teulada and Benitachell with a total of 29 people on board, including two minors and one who required a wheelchair due to reduced mobility.

The National Police’s Unit against Networks of Immigration and Documentary Falsehoods (UCRIF) conducted the arrests after obtaining statements from

moting the value of artisanal fishing in a time dominated by mechanical methods. In his endorsement, Amadeo Faus, president of Desti Sa-

for, highlighted the unique sweetness of the Gandia langoustine, which results from the sea in this area, setting it apart from those found in other coastal regions.

He went on to thank the town council, especially Sendra and the Department of Tourism, for supporting Destí Safor in all of its initiatives. He then invited citizens and tourists to enjoy this important ingredient of local gastronomy.

A full list of the participating restaurants can be found by visiting www.destis afor.com.

Skippers imprisoned

protected witnesses to identify those responsible for the journeys. The three arrested individuals have been held in Alicante duty court and are being assessed for their involvement in aiding illegal immigration.

The case will later be referred to the Denia courts for further investigation and trial, which will take place in the Provincial Court and possibly before the end of the year.

Most of the intercepted boats in the province of Alicante originate from the Algerian coast, where immigrants pay between €2,000 and €9,000 for the crossing. The arrested skippers are often involved in tasks such as operating the boat or managing the passengers, and some are compelled to undertake this work to pay off their debt to the criminal organisations behind the trips.

Celebrating the langoustine.

BENIDORM has introduced a new initiative called ‘September School’ in partnership with the FAMPA Marina Baixa and the town council.

This programme aims to support a better work-life balance during the first week of September. According to Maite Moreno, the councillor for Education, families typically lack options during this week after the conclusion of the regular public and private sum-

September School

mer activities for children.

In response to this need, the ‘September School’ will be managed by the company Animaciones Trokoló. It will be open from September 2 to 6 at the CEIP Leonor Canalejas. Children will be able to engage in a variety of recrea-

Loud and Proud

GET ready for the most vibrant, colourful and fabulous Benidorm Pride yet. It’s the last Pride in the European summer calendar, and it will definitely be worth the wait. Taking place between September 2 and 7, the city of Benidorm will pulsate with energy as tourists and residents come together to celebrate and express their love and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The 2024 programme is packed with a variety of new and exciting activities, building up to the highlight of the festival, the vibrant Big Parade procession, scheduled to take place on the final day at Levante Beach.

As in previous years, it will start from McDonald’s (el Rincon de Loix) at 5.00pm, continue its route along the

Paseo del Levante/Avda Mediterraneo, and finish at the stunning open-air Julio Inglesias Auditorium.

Following this spectacle, the Parade Party will kick off at the Auditorium and best of all, admission is completely free. This is destined to be the party to end all parties and will fea -

ture performers galore. Be prepared to be entertained by a diverse range of performances, including captivating drag performers, tribute acts, top DJs, as well as surprise headliners.

The Benidorm Pride Facebook page contains details of all the activities, including ticketed events.

tional, sports, craft, and cooperative activities from 9.00am to 2.00pm, with an option for an early morning service from 8.00am to 9.00am. Additionally, children will have the option to eat a packed lunch (provided from home) between 2.00pm and 3.00pm while re -

maining at the centre’s facilities.

The ‘September School’ cost will be €65 for families associated with the AMPA and €80 for non-associated families. Likewise, the early morning service will be priced at €25 for associated families and €35 for non-members.

The registration period is open until August 25 and can be accessed via www.trokolo.com.

Parade party 2023.

Credit: Benidorm Pride

THE Guadalest Valley had a solid wine-making tradition in the past, but a severe phylloxera outbreak in the early 20th century disrupted it. Despite this setback, the Vidal Balaguer family, consisting of five determined brothers, has taken on the challenge of reviving this heritage.

After years of dedicated effort, they have successfully restored the vineyards and revitalised wine production in the region.

Under the remit of a more comprehensive development plan known as the MASOS Project, the winery forms part of their estate, which boasts over 800 years of history, a testament to the region’s rich past. Over 10 hectares of vineyards grow both native and foreign grape varieties suited to the area’s Mediterranean climate, producing four distinct varieties of wine.

Looking ahead, the Vidal Balaguer family envisions the MASOS Project as not just a place for wine-making but also a vibrant cultural hub. The winery, soon to be

MASOS Project Restoration works Mental health

home to its restaurant, Ca Marieta, named after the family matriarch, will be a testament to the family’s rich culinary heritage. Here, the chef Enrique Martínez will reinterpret the enormous wealth of Alicante’s recipes, adding a contemporary twist.

The MASOS Project is set to be completed with the opening of the Mas de la Mona hotel, a true gem

THE province of Alicante is set to introduce nine mental health units to cater to schools and institutes. The council plans to deploy 56 psychologists to serve the community’s educational centres, aiming to identify and prevent emotional disorders, addictions, and suicidal behaviours early in the classroom.

The council aims to activate this service within its Valencian Plan for Mental Health and Addictions 24-27, as it has been revealed that 42.3 per

that will set a new standard in the province. The hotel’s unique features, including its meticulously restored original authenticity, will undoubtedly make it a standout choice for visitors, promising a truly unique and memorable experience.

For further information or to book a wine tour, visit www.masos guadalest.com.

cent of women and 39.7 per cent of men aged 15 and over, and 10.7 per cent of children under 15 years of age are at risk from poor mental health.

The Valencian Community suffers from the highest prevalence of alcohol and cannabis consumption in the country among the population aged 15 to 64, as well as the highest rate of

THE Ministry of Housing and Urban Agenda has officially confirmed to Denia Town Council that it will subsidise 75 per cent (€453,000) of the total cost of €630,000 for the completed project ‘Restoration of the Torre del Galliner and the Verger Baix del Castell de Denia’. The subsidy comes from the 1.5% Cultural Development Programme. Additionally, the town council will return the remaining €37,000 to the Ministry since the initial budget for the project was higher.

However, the government has set the condition that the rehabilitated area must be visitable and accessible. As a result, the council is in the process of drafting a project to build a ramp between the Vila Vella and the Vergeret gate. This plan and a schedule of the expected deadlines for its completion must be submitted to the Ministry before October.

The restoration project has focused on the Verger Baix area, where emergency action was necessary to consolidate the state of the Galliner Tower. Although the initial project did not include the restoration of the Galliner Tower and the opening of the castle gate through the Ronda de les Muralles, the project has successfully reconstructed the wall using the old rammed earth technique, worked on the old powder magazine, restored and consolidated the Battery of the Sea, and uncovered the Portal dels Reis.

health, new technologies, and suicide prevention.

cases treated for suicidal ideation or autolytic attempts in Primary Care. These worrying statistics are driving the creation of these units in order to detect, guide, and monitor cases to ensure early attention for students.

From September onwards, teachers are expected to undergo various courses aimed at training them in mental

These courses will be included alongside the formation of teams and the definition of their actions in the school environment in an effort to address one of the great contemporary societal problems.

Euro Weekly News would like to remind readers that Samaritans in Spain are available to all English speakers on FREEPHONE 900 525 100 between 10am and midnight every day.

MASOS Winery is open to the public.

Credit: MASOS

It’s easy to hold onto what’s familiar, and Britons feel comfortable with premium bonds and ISAs. But besides the possibility of improving returns, once you leave the UK the tax incentives provided by these savings in the UK fall away and they become subject to tax in Spain.

Is it worth keeping premium bonds?

Premium bonds feel part of the fabric of British savings – it’s likely your parents and grandparents owned some and your first bonds may have been a gift from them. Your capital is protected by the Treasury, and you have the enticing possibility of winning a million pounds (although an incredibly slim probability). And, of course, their tax-free status is a compelling incentive. But does this mean you should keep yours, especially if you own many?

Investment returns

Although premium bonds are a form of savings product, whether you earn anything from them or not is essentially a gamble and down to luck. They do not provide any automatic interest earnings or capital growth, so their value is eroded over time by inflation, unless you happen to win big enough to com-

UK Premium Bonds and British expatriates

pensate.

What are the chances of winning big? The odds of winning anything from a single bond are one in 21,000. The odds of scooping the £1 million top prize from a single bond in one draw is one in 59,082,205,208.

Can expatriates own premium bonds?

Yes, you can, but it’s not that simple. As the National Savings & Investments (NS&I) website explains,

while they do have some customers outside the UK, you need a UK bank or building society account. It can only make payments to, or receive payments from, a UK account in your name.

The problem here is that, since Brexit, many UK banks have closed accounts belonging to EU residents because they don’t have the necessary regulation.

How premium bonds are taxed in Spain

Premium bonds are not tax free if you live in Spain though. If you win one of the prizes, you’ll share your good fortune with your local tax authority.

As a Spanish resident, any premium bond winnings are taxed with your other general income, at the scale rates of income tax of up to 54% in Valenciana.

Some expatriates mistakenly think that since premium bonds

and ISAs are UK investments, they do not need to be declared in Spain. In fact, they do, and with today’s global automatic exchange of information, the Spanish tax authorities are informed about your UK investments.

Tax-efficient wealth management in Spain

There are very tax-efficient investment vehicles available to residents of Spain. With specialist advice, you could enjoy extremely favourable tax treatment on your capital investments. Speak to an adviser who can guide you on both UK and Spanish taxation and tax planning opportunities.

Taxation is not the only reason to review your savings and investments. Consider whether they are suitable for your life in Spain (for example, what currency should they be in?); your future expectations (will you stay in Spain or re-

turn to the UK in future?); your objectives (are you looking for income or growth?); your time horizon and your risk tolerance.

Too many people have portfolios which are no longer suitable for them today. You need personalised advice from a Spain based cross-border adviser providing holistic advice covering investments, tax efficiency and estate planning.

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 is advised to seek personalised advice.

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

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

Music in the Square

THE town council of San Juan has been awarded three new subsidies totalling more than €14,500 from the Provincial Council of Alicante. These subsidies, granted to the Department of Culture, have significantly enhanced various cultural activities within the city. The mayor, David Aracil, has been instrumental in securing these funds, which will support ‘Music in the Square’, the publication of the book celebrating the Nou d’Octubre, and the Petit Teatre Festival.

The ‘Music in the Square’ programme, which regularly brings cultural performances to public spaces in San Juan, has received a grant of €5,904.60. This initiative aims to enrich the community while also benefiting local businesses.

Additionally, €3,000 has been allocated for the layout and printing of the book commemorating the ‘75th Anniversary of Queens and Ladies of the Festivities of the Christ of Peace’, written by Susana Raña. This book was unveiled during the Nou d’Octubre celebration, and it pays tribute to the women who have held significant roles in the Major Festivities of San Juan since 1948.

Furthermore, the Petit Teatre Festival, a beloved Children’s Theatre event in San Juan, has been granted €5,649.82 to support its eighth edition. The funding will ensure the continuation of this culturally enriching event for young audiences.

Finestrat 2024

Donna Williams

ALL good things must come to an end, and so it is with the Patron Saint Festivities in Finestrat, which concluded on Sunday August 25. Throughout the week, the whole community came together and created long-lasting memories for everyone involved.

For instance, on Friday August 23, the festivities featured the beloved tradition of the offering of flowers. Local residents paraded through the historic centre, adding vibrant colours to the streets and drawing the attention of both locals and visitors.

The following day, Saturday, brought the highly anticipated Great Comedy Parade. This delightful display of creati-

vity and humour saw participants don unique and entertaining costumes, spreading joy and laughter throughout the event. Finally, on Sunday, the last day of the festivities, the community came together to express their gratitude to the elders with a traditional homage lunch, where the older re -

IT seems that our beloved Benidorm is leaving quite a lasting mark on some tourists who cannot bear to forget that they visited here. So much so that there is a growing trend whereby British tourists are literally inking the name of the town on their bodies along with the year of their holiday. In fact, some tourists are going one step further and having multiple tattoos created, one for each year they make a trip over.

As you might imagine, the decision to get inked is often sponta-

sidents were asked to cut the celebratory cake.

This year, Elisa El Forn and Francisco El Lliriet had the honour of carrying out this symbolic act as a gesture of respect and appreciation.

The vibrant fiesta reached its grand finale with a spectacular display of fireworks set against the backdrop of a majestic castle, all artfully choreographed by Vulcano Pyrotechnics. The dazzling pyrotechnic show was followed by the culminating dance performance held in the bustling town square.

Holiday ink

neous. They can be sitting at the table of one of the bars in the area and impulsively decide to get a lasting ‘souvenir’. As one tattoo owner explained, “We have had the situation where a group of 14 have all decided to get a tattoo and the place is full, all after the euphoria of spending several hours partying while on holiday.”

While the tattoo designs may

be tedious and straightforward to create, such as ‘Benidorm’, ‘the year’, and perhaps a palm tree or the skyline, the extra trade has been welcomed by tattoo parlours.

In fact, some of have been cited as saying that they have had to extend their working hours and have found themselves doing 60 tattoos in one day.

Credit:santjoandalacant.es

Great Comedy Parade.

The Ladies commemorated in the book.

OVER the last three years, the Paddy Brennan Boxing Academy has carved a unique niche in the boxing world. With its distinctive approach and unwavering dedication to the sport, the Academy has successfully hosted international sparring events in partnership with the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

One such collaboration took place on August 22, when 40 promising young boxers were given the opportunity to train at the Academy’s gym, the Oasis in Denia, under the guidance

of Paddy Brennan MBE. Some of these participants are considered potential future stars of Olympic calibre and are a testament to the Academy’s role in shaping the future of boxing. The popularity of the training camps is such that the Academy is being urged to arrange more by renowned Boxing Presidents Peter O’Donnell (Ireland) and Peter Robinson (UK), who collectively oversee 180 clubs in their respective divisions.

Paddy considers boxing largely misunders -

Mayorales proclamation Achieving greatness

JAVEA kicked off the Loreto 2024 festivities with a vibrant celebration filled with tradition and emotion. The event took place on a bustling Lepanto Avenue, where the mayorales and mayoralesas were officially proclaimed as the central figures of this year’s festivities. This included individuals who were returning after a decade of holding the position, further adding a deep sense of nostalgia.

The ceremony also marked a significant moment for the Festival Committee, as new members, including two babies, were appointed. However, the highlight of the event came unexpectedly during the speeches with

the departure announcement of the president of the commission, Vicente Gavila, who has gracefully led the celebrations for the past seven years.

Gavila expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported him during his presidency, particularly singling out his family for imparting essential

tood as merely a brutal sport, and he is committed to changing that perception through his

values that guided his work.

With a sense of closure, Gavila stated, “There have been many years in office, and now it’s time to pass the torch to others,” symbolising the start of a new chapter for the Loreto de Javea Festivals, while maintaining the cherished traditions and festive spirit that define this beloved celebration.

In their remarks, the festival councillor, Mavi Perez, and the mayor of Javea, Rosa Cardona, praised the outstanding efforts of the Commission in organising these significant and age-old festivals. They extended a warm invitation for everyone to participate in each of the planned events as a unified community.

Academy. He believes it’s a powerful metaphor for life’s struggles and triumphs and that the stories of boxers who have faced and overcome extraordinary challenges are not only inspirational tales but lessons in perseverance. He explained, “We believe these stories can motivate anyone to overcome their personal obstacles and achieve greatness.” With this in mind, his ultimate goal is to create a welcoming and supportive space where people can learn valuable life skills, respect, and a sense of family.

Training at the Oasis in Denia.

Mayorales 2024.

IDENTIFYING defects or flaws in a new or recently purchased property is more common than one might initially think. If you need to claim construction defects or flaws in Spain, you will be facing a significant challenge. Defects can vary in severity and type, affecting both the aesthetics and the functionality and/or safety of the property. Common issues include:

Foundation Problems : Cracks or subsidence that compromise structural stability.

Roof Deficiencies : Leaks, drips, and issues with insulation.

Electrical or Plumbing Defects : Faulty installations that can impact safety and daily use.

Water and Damp Issues : Damage to walls, floors, or ceilings due to inadequate waterproofing.

Defective Insulation : Problems affecting energy efficiency and comfort in the property, etc.

It is crucial to address these defects promptly to avoid further damage and protect your investment.

Legal Framework and Warranty Periods for Construction Defects

Since the enactment of Law 38/1999 on the Regulation of Building (LOE), construction defects and flaws are governed by a specific framework that sets out different warranty periods according to the type of defect:

- Finish Issues: one year warranty.

- Habitability Deficiencies: three years warranty.

- Structural Defects: 10 years warranty.

- These warranty periods start from the completion of the works and the receipt of the property.

Procedure to Claim Construction Defects in Spain

- Defect Assessment: It is essential to carry out a detailed inspection to identify and document the defects present in the property. It is advisable to engage an expert to assess the extent and severity of the issues.

- Notification to the Builder: The builder or developer should be informed of the defects and requested to ca -

rry out the necessary repairs. This communication should be in writing to have a formal record of the claim.

- Expert Report: If an agreement cannot be reached with the promoter, it may be necessary to hire an expert to prepare a technical report on the defects and their extent and/or scope.

- Court Claim: If the builder does not adequately respond to the claim, you may initiate legal proceedings.

Responsibility of Different Construction Agents

The LOE requires the developer to have a policy of insurance, known as the 10-year insurance. The aim of this policy is to cover potential structural problems

(10-year warranty period). If you have issues with your property or community, such as wall stability problems, cracks, dampness, etc, you can claim against various construction agents. Even if the developer or builder has disappeared and has no assets, you could claim against the architect, designer, project manager, technical architect, insurance company (ten-year insurance), etc.

At White-Baos Lawyers, we have extensive experience to claim construction defects against developers, builders, etc. If you need to pursue legal action for these reasons, do not hesitate to contact us.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

A DRAMATIC rescue unfolded o the coast of Scotland when a paddleboarder was blown 1.8 miles out to sea, sparking a swift response from local emergency services.

The incident occurred near a popular Scottish beach, where strong o shore winds quickly carried the paddleboarder far from the shore.

The paddleboarder, initially enjoying a sunny day on the water, was caught o guard by the sudden shift in weather conditions. Unable to paddle back against the powerful winds and currents, they found themselves drifting further out to sea. Onlookers on the beach

THE annual Montenegro Laziness Championships have kicked o in a village near Nikšic, drawing contestants from across the country eager to test their endurance in an unusual way: by lying down for as long as possible. This quirky competition challenges participants to remain lying down for at least seven days, making it a true test of patience and endurance.

Contestants are allowed to stand up only once every

Paddleboarder rescued

quickly realised the danger and alerted the coastguard.

A rescue team was dispatched immediately, including a lifeboat crew and a search and rescue helicopter. After a tense search, the paddleboarder was spotted clinging to their board, visibly exhausted but still conscious.

The lifeboat crew managed to reach the stranded individual and pull them to safety.

Fortunately, the paddleboarder was unharmed, though shaken by the ordeal.

Rescuers praised the individual for wearing a life jacket, which helped keep them a oat during the ordeal.

Authorities are reminding beachgoers to check weather conditions before heading out on the water and to always wear appropriate safety gear.

The swift and coordinated response by emergency services in this dramatic rescue highlights the importance of preparedness and vigilance when enjoying water sports.

Laziness Championships

Participants must remain lyding down for at least seven days.

eight hours for a brief bathroom break. Aside from this short reprieve, they must remain at on their

backs, testing both their physical stamina and mental fortitude.

The event, which started as a lighthearted response to the notion of Montenegrins being ‘lazy’, has become a popular local tradition. Participants bring books, tablets, or other entertainment to help pass the time, while friends and family provide moral support. The competition has gained a reputation

for its friendly atmosphere, with many participants seeing it as a chance to disconnect, relax, and enjoy a slower pace of life. The winner of the Montenegro Laziness Championships will receive not just bragging rights but also a cash prize, further incentivising contestants to remain as still as possible.

As the days stretch on, only time will tell who has the most ‘endurance’ to claim the title of the laziest person in Montenegro.

Oasis back together

OASIS fans have been sent into a frenzy since hearing this week of the Gallagher brothers’ intention to get back together and tour. Tickets go on sale August 31.

Noel Gallagher and Liam Gallagher confirmed an Oasis reunion tour with 14 UK and Ireland dates for 2025. So far, the tour begins in Cardiff and closes in Dublin, but it’s early days and there are hopes the tour will be extended internationally.

The Gallaghers hinted there might a comeback on Sunday August 25, but it wasn’t until August 27 that they confirmed with a list of upcoming concerts. The brothers said in a joint enigmatic statement ‘The guns have fallen silent. The stars have aligned. The great wait is over. Come see. It will not be televised’.

Fans on social media are expressing concerns over the ticket prices

yet to be announced, and the rush to obtain them, worrying that the online chaos will replicate the near impossibility of buying Taylor Swift tickets. Liam wrote on X ‘This is it, this is happening. Tickets on sale this Saturday August 31’.

Dates announced so far are: Cardiff Principality

Stadium - July 4/5, 2025; Manchester Heaton Park - 11/12/19/20 July (there is speculation about more dates being added in that week off); London Wembley Stadium - July 25 & 26; August 2 & 3; Edinburgh Murrayfield Stadium - August 8 & 9; Dublin Croke Park - August 16 & 17.

Roman city discovery

ARCHAEOLOGISTS unearth long-lost Roman city and 57 settlements between Jerez de la Frontera and Ronda, shedding new light on the extent of Empire in Andalucia.

The discovery suggests there was another hidden Roman city in Spain that was previously unheard of. Archaeologists only assumed they would find a few remains in the area of Bornos in the Sierra de Grazale-

Cleared of doping

JANIK SINNER, the Italian tennis player currently ranked as the World Number One, has been cleared of doping.

The 23-year-old from Italy’s South Tyrol received an automatic provisional suspension after he tested positive for banned clostebol on two occasions in March this year. He was able to keep playing following an appeal.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has since concluded that clostebol’s presence in Sinner’s urine was the result of an ‘unconscious intake’.

Clostebol is a steroid that can be used to build muscle mass but is also found in the over-the-counter spray which Sinner’s fitness trainer Umberto Ferrera gave to his physiotherapist Giacomo Nal di to treat a cut on his hand.

The ITIA accepted the Sinner team’s argument that the physiotherapist had unwittingly transferred this du ring massages carried out without gloves.

Sinner thanked Naldi and Ferrara for their assistance so far, stres sing that they had pla yed “a huge part” in his career.

Nevertheless, he has now dispensed with their services.

“I’m not feeling

ma, but have been surprised with what they have discovered.

When the team of archaeologists set out on their examination of this area last year in 2023, they had little idea they would discover so much.

Experts now believe the area to have been a much more significant hub to the Roman Empire than anyone ever imagined.

State-of-the-art technology, including the latest in ground-penetrating radar, is being used to delve deeper down to what has not yet been visible to the naked eye.

Excavation teams have unearthed a Roman villa in Cañuelo in Bornos, in the Grazalema Valley where they discovered buildings with walls that separated work areas from living quarters.

The team of archaeologists believe the remains probably date back until 264BC, around the time the Romans began their conquest of southern Spain.

that confident to continue with them,” the player admitted.

“We wish them the best of luck,” a spokesperson said.

Inevitably, other players have criticised the speed with which Sinner’s case was resolved and suggested there was preferential treatment for top players.

Nick Kyrgios went further, claiming on X that the Italian’s exoneration was “ridiculous” whether accidental or intention.

“You should be gone for two years. Your performance was enhanced,” Kyrgios declared.

JOHN TINNISWOOD, the world’s oldest living man, has turned 112 at his care home in Southport, Merseyside.

John was born in Liverpool on August 25, 1912, the same year the Titanic sank, and the same year New Mexico and Arizona were admitted as states number 47 and 48.

Mr Tinniswood became the world’s oldest living man in April, admitting his secret to longevity is “just luck.”

When asked how he felt about turning 112, John told the Guinness World Records, “In all honesty, no different. I don’t feel that age, I don’t

Old wisdom

get excited over it,” adding “That’s probably why I’ve reached it.”

“I just take it in my stride like anything else, why I’ve lived that long I have no idea at all,” Tinniswood said, stating that he couldn’t “think of any special secrets” to reach his age. “I was quite active as a youngster, I did a lot of walking,” John said, “Whether that had something to do with it, I don’t know.”

John Tinniswood has remained humble in his year,

explaining “to me, I’m no different [to anyone]. No different at all.”

The oldest man, born in 1912, expressed that for him, “It’s not better in my opinion, or hardly any better, than it was then. Probably in some places it is, but in other places it’s worse.”

When asked about his secret, John told Guinness World Records it’s “just luck,” stating “You either live long or you live short, and you can’t do much about it.”

The brothers buried the hatchet.

John Tinniswood turns 112 and shares his wisdom with Guinness World Records.

Credit: Guinness World Records /fb

PROFILE INTERVIEW

Ute Gorny - Explainer Bear Villa

MEET Ute, a truly remarkable woman who still believes in the magic of fate despite being terminally ill with a severe heart condition.

Originally from Germany, Ute was not dealt the best hand as a serious heart condition has meant that she has had to have palliative care treatment for almost three years. More than this, though, the severity of her condition has left her unable to look after her two exceptional boys: a deaf, autistic 13-year-old and an 11-year-old foster son with multiple disabilities. They both live with her ex-husband in Germany, and as she said, “I may not be happy with how things turned out between us, but I will always be thankful that he is looking after both of our sons.”

Last year, after an Airbnb’s (un)fortunate cancellation, Ute found herself in Spain for the first time in her life. She shared, “I had never even been interested in going to Spain on holiday. Now I am convinced that thanks to fate I have landed in one of the most beautiful places in the world.”

That place is Benissa, and thanks to a chance viewing of a property there, Ute has created a very special home, which she lovingly refers to as her ‘project’. On seeing it

for the first time, she was enamoured with its openness, low walls, bougainvillaea, and endless charm and potential. What makes it really special, though, is the renovations that she has carried out to make it the perfect ge-

taway for families with children similar to her own. This was no easy task and included transporting unique furniture from Germany, renovating the entire property, and adding specialised equipment. The villa has

been designed specifically with autistic children in mind because Ute knows first-hand how nearly impossible it is to find suitable accommodation. She shared, “As well as autism, I also paid particular attention to people with hearing impairments or forms of mental illness.”

This project, or ‘Explainer Bear Villa’ to give its proper title, has given her a new lease on life, and nothing gives her greater pleasure than reading all the emails from families asking to holiday with her. Ute understands that her guests are likely to be low-income families, so she provides them with an affordable price to match their circumstances. She said, “I have no intention of making a profit as I have enough to live on with my pension. I am almost exclusively in the villa and enjoy bringing joy to my special host families.”

Seeing life through her eyes and her love for the simplest of things, like a beautiful sky, is truly inspiring. I can’t help but wonder if fate placed her in my path so that I could share her humbling story with the Euro Weekly News readers.

Those looking to learn more about the Explainer Bear Villa can do so by visiting, www. villa.der.erklaerbaerin.de.

Ute with her ‘therapy’ chickens.

Credit: Ute Gorny

Your

Do you think self-service checkouts are a good idea?

IN the UK, at least, it seems the love affair supermarkets have had with self-service checkouts is coming to an end. Customer dissatisfaction and a wave of shoplifting have been cited as the main reasons for this turnaround. Customer feedback has included issues with them being slow and frustrating to use.

In fact, popular supermarket chain Morrisons has made it clear that it will be looking to reduce the number of self-service checkouts in its stores, admitting that the concept ‘went too far’. Asda has also stated that it will not be expanding self-service technology but instead will invest in increasing the number of cashiers at its manned checkouts.

In light of this news, we asked Euro Weekly News readers if they think self-service checkouts are a good idea.

Sue Stephenson said, “I’m not a lover of them. I only use them when I have a couple of items; otherwise, I go straight to the cashier.”

Sandie Laidlaw is vehemently against them and stated, “Refuse to use them... would rather queue, thank you.”

Stephen Cosgrove is also very much against them and says, “I despise them. OK, standing with one or two items behind numerous people with full trollies is annoying, for sure, but usually because they’ve only got a couple of tills manned. I get why self-checkout appeals to and suits the supermarket, but it’s

a cop-out. It should be about consumer convenience after all. Have manned checkouts for 10 or fewer items by all means.”

In considering the staffing issue, Mark Morris said, “What’s the point in shutting down two till points and then having two staff members helping out in self-checkout?”

Also, on staffing, Karen Joy Harley expressed, “I refuse to use them as I am paying for my shopping; I am not paying to be a cashier and do these unsung heroes out of a job.”

However, Ken J Brooks is very much in favour of them and questions whether they cost people their jobs; he shared, “Yes, definitely. However, the idea that people lose their jobs because of self-checkouts is not necessarily true. While it has happened, most people replaced by self-checkouts are offered a similar position.”

Likewise, Andrew McLaughlin Findlay is in favour, “Love them; they don’t throw the items at you!” he said.

Carol Fraser was a little more pragmatic when she said, “Only for people like workers who want to buy their lunch and small baskets of shopping.”

A comment from Andrew Fitzgerald, and my personal favourite, raises an interesting point, “No, people need jobs, and the lack of human interaction in day-to-day life is turning everyone into socially anxious zombies,” he expressed.

Burglar caught reading a book

A BOOK on Greek mythology caught the eye of a would-be burglar in Rome, leading to him getting caught red-handed.

The Italian press are reporting on an attempted burglary in the Prati district of Rome. A 38-year-old housebreaker had entered via a balcony while the occupants were still asleep, noticed the copy of a book about Homer’s Iliad, and thought he’d have a browse through its pages.

escaping by the same balcony, but it was too late and the police had already arrived.

got the wrong at, saw the book and started reading it.

So engrossed was the thief that he didn’t notice the 71-year-old owner had woken up and called the police. Caught o -guard, the would-be burglar tried to make a run for it,

Cucumber kerfuffle

SUPERMARKETS in Iceland have been impacted by a viral TikTok trend, leaving its cucumber shelves empty.

A viral TikTok trend circling the Nordic country has caused an unprecedented surge in demand for cucumbers, forcing suppliers to race to keep up.

The trend began after one in uencer shared a salad recipe of grated cucumbers, sesame oil, garlic, rice vinegar and chilli oil, prompting other in uencers to join the trend and lead it to virality.

The recipe was so popular that it a ected the suppliers, with farmers in the country unable to keep up with the unpredictable demand, according to the Horticulturists’ Sales Company (SFG), Icelands Farmers Association.

SFG’s marketing director, Kristin Linda Sveinsdottir, admitted that currently, farmers in Iceland are not managing to keep up with the drastic demand - but hopes supply will be back to normal “in a week or so” - with one supermarket chain, Hagkaup, saying cucumber purchases had more than doubled.

According to Kristin, the recipe had proven to be “really popular” as other

A viral trend has landed Iceland supermarkets in quite the pickle.

ingredients involved were equally selling out.

The viral trend originated in Canada where the ‘cucumber guy’, Logan Mott, shares his unique recipes using the staple ingredient.

The food in uencer has more than 5.5 million followers, sharing cucumber recipes almost every day since July.

The book that captured the attention of the burglar, ‘The Gods at 6 o’clock’, told the story of Iliad from the perspective of the gods. In his defence, the man claimed to have climbed onto the balcony to see a friend of his, but had

On hearing the news, the author of the book was delighted and wants to ensure the alleged thief gets a copy of his own so he can nish it. He also said his own favourite Greek god was Hermes, God of Thieves and Books.

Thirsty countries

WHEN it comes to drinking Europe has the lifestyle for it, but trends are changing creating healthier relationships with alcohol.

Alcohol consumption overall is on the decline in the EU, but only by 0.5 litres between 2010 and 2020.

To clarify, the World Health Organisation stated that “No level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health.”

Nevertheless, Europe still has a big drinking culture across the conti-

nent, and may not always listen to the warnings.

Overall alcohol consumption is defined as the annual sales of pure alcohol in litres per person aged 15 and over; The data does not include unrecorded alcohol consumption, such as domestic or illegal production.

In the EU, overall alcohol consumption per person aged 15 years and over dropped by 2.9 litres in the last four decades, falling from 12.7 litres in 1980 to 9.8 litres in 2020, which corresponds to a

23 per cent decrease.

Annually, on average every person, aged 15 years and above in the region, drinks 9.5 litres of pure alcohol; This is equivalent to 190 litres of beer, 80 litres of wine or 24 litres of spirits.

Of the ‘Big Four’, Germany had the highest amount of alcohol consumption at 10.6 litres, followed closely by France at 10.4 litres, Spain at 7.8 litres and Italy at 7.7 litres. The UK consumes on average 9.7 litres.

Cost-of-living advantage

AMID the global cost-of-living crisis, Spain continues to offer a more affordable lifestyle compared to many European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates.

According to 2022 Eurostat data, Spanish households spend a smaller portion of their budget on essential expenses like housing, food and transportation than their counterparts in other EU countries.

Housing costs, including utilities, account for 22.3 per cent of a typical Spanish household’s budget. This is lower than the UK (25.7 per cent), France (26.2 per cent), and Germany (24.6 per cent). Groceries also take a smaller share of the budget in Spain, with households spending around 13 per cent, slightly below the EU average of 13.6 per cent. In contrast, UK households spend 16.7 per cent on food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Transportation costs in Spain represent 11.9 per cent of household budgets, compared to 13.1 per cent in the UK and 13.5 per cent in Germany. Spain’s well-developed public transport system further enhances its affordability. Healthcare spending in Spain is also notably low, at just 3.2 per cent of household budgets, significantly less than in France (4.6 per cent) and Germany (4.9 per cent).

Overall, Spain’s lower expenses on hou-

sing, food, transport and healthcare make it a cost-effective option for expatriates, especially when compared to popular destinations like the UK, France, Germany and Italy.

Despite rising living costs across Europe, Spain remains a top choice for those seeking a high standard of living without overspending.

Which countries in Europe drink the most alcohol?

Spain offers an affordable lifestyle.

Credit: Pixabay.

Absentee kids

WE all know that it is far cheaper to book a family holiday outside of peak summer time, and of course, the larger the family, the more cost becomes a consideration.

However, taking advantage of opeak o ers invariably means taking your kids out of school early, which some would argue impacts their education. Others would say that the cultural bene ts they gain from travelling to foreign countries far outweigh spending those days in the classroom.

It would seem that, at least in England, parents are quite happy to take kids out of school, as almost 400,000 penalty notices issued in 2022-23 for unauthorised school absences would testify to. Furthermore, statistics substantiate that 89 per cent were down to unauthorised holidays.

For those unaware, parents of children in schools in England are liable to pay a penalty of £60 (€70) if their children miss ve days of school through unauthorised absence. This amount increases to £120 (€140) if the ne remains unpaid after 21 days of issue.

However, the Department of Education (DfE) has decided that the current ne isn’t enough of a deterrent. As a

INTERVIEW

Telegram founder arrested

Credit: Shutterstock.

result, with immediate e ect, they have issued a nationwide instruction to increase it by a third to £80 (€94), with a jump to £160 (€187) if not paid within 21 days. In addition, if the same parent is ned again within three years, the new starting threshold will be £160 (€187). A subsequent absence would then most likely lead to prosecution.

Speaking European –Esther Stoel

Esther was travelling across Europe on an eye-opening journey of culture when she came to Spain and decided to settle down.

BORN in the Netherlands, Esther has spent the last six years living in the tourist magnet, Greece. “The plan was to keep travelling across the EU,” said Esther but Valencia struck a chord in her soul and she began to settle just outside the main city.

Despite Valencia’s tourist appeal, Esther said it is “nowhere as crowded as in Greece.” The Netherlands’ “expensive lifestyle, bad weather and constant stress,” caused Esther to move abroad, but the “poverty and the increased cost of living” in Greece made Esther concerned about her and her son’s future. Esther now works as an online sports nutritionist and is buil-

ding a yoga retreat. Since coming to Spain, she has been deeply invested in the “laidback lifestyle” of the Spanish. She believes that Europeans who have moved to Spain need to “learn to slow down,” to enjoy a life abroad.

Living in a city as diverse as Valencia, Esther is constantly faced with the unique Spanish fusion of “historic celebrations and traditions,” and the “modernity and open-mindedness of the locals.” She shared that although some traditions can be “difficult to understand,” she makes an effort to learn about Spain’s culture and treat it with respect.

PAVEL DUROV, the Russian-born billionaire and founder of the messaging app Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget airport near Paris on Saturday August 24. The arrest, which occurred as Durov arrived from Baku on his private jet, is part of an ongoing investigation into the use of Telegram for criminal activities.

French authorities have extended Durov’s detention as they probe allegations of fraud, drug tra cking, organised crime and terrorism promotion on

the platform. His detention could last up to 96 hours, after which a judge will decide whether to press charges or release him.

Telegram, with approximately 950 million active users, is known for its strong privacy features, making it popular among both legitimate users and criminal groups. The company defended its moderation practices and compliance with European Union laws, calling the arrest “absurd” and expressing con dence in a swift resolution.

Durov, aged 39, left Russia in 2014 after refusing to suppress opposition groups on VK, the social network he also founded. He now resides in Dubai, holding citizenship in both France and the UAE. His arrest has drawn international attention, with gures like Elon Musk expressing support for him. The case could have signi cant implications for social media platforms worldwide, particularly concerning their responsibilities in moderating content.

Declining Berlin Haute Cuisine

Michelin-star restaurants in the German capital are closing down. Still su ering a change in public preferences since the pandemic and uncertainty over the direction of the European economy, customers who previously dined at the best restaurants are eating elsewhere.

In two months from now, Berlin’s fth Michelin-starred restaurant will serve its last dish following a string of other top restaurant closures. The popularity of ne dining appears to have passed its peak as foodies prefer to spend more frugally in Germany these days.

One of a cluster of elements claimed to be leading to the closures has been a hike in VAT imposed on restaurants by the German government in 2024 from 7 to 19 per

cent. Another has been runaway in ation just after the pandemic, complicating recovery. Declining tourism has also been cited as a contributory cause, as well as wars and subsequent supply-chain unsteadiness.

Despite hosting the European Cup this year and Berlin receiving masses of visitors to watch the matches, the top Berlin restaurants saw little increase in their clientele.

According to the Michelin guide, this may be part of a worrying trend for the industry. ‘In Northern Europe the number of Michelin-starred restaurants open for business is down by three-quarters - from 74 per cent to 18 per cent - while southern Europe records a smaller drop from 66 per cent to 40 per cent,’ the guide says.

Esther Stoel with her son.

Increased fines for parents who take kids out of school.

Credit: Pixabay: ernestoeslava

Telegram is currently under investigation.

TOP

Top Berlin restaurants closing.

Credit: Freepik

Worth of art Portugal airport strikes

FOLLOWING the theft and the removal of Banksy’s artworks from public spaces, the artist’s craft has become more desired than ever. Arguably the most famous living artist in the world, how much does it cost to own a work by the British icon and is it worth it?

The art network MyArtBroker surveyed more than 1,400 people in the UK to find out what they think about the controversial artist. When asked how they felt about Banksy, 66 per cent of the respondents

were said to be “inspired,” and 51 per cent bolstered the “thought-provoking” nature of his work.

If given a choice of purchasing a new Porsche 911 or an original signed Banksy print, 45 per cent said they would prefer to get the iconic artwork.

On average, Banksy’s work costs around €235,987. The most that’s ever been paid for his print is €21.3 million; Love is in the Bin, which has ironically been interpreted as a representation of Banksy’s

sceptical attitude towards art selling.

Although the purchase may come with potential physical threats of theft, investing in Banksy’s art means becoming a part of art history and obtaining a limited product. Not just the artwork itself but its representation; the freedom of artistic expression and social consciousness, the scarcity of Banksy’s art is likely to increase and increase in value in the future, making it a meaningful investment.

PORTUGUESE Transport Workers’ Union (Sttamp) has warned of the “severe constraints” the Groundforce workers’ strike will cause at airports.

The Sttamp issued a strike notice covering all national airports, ‘from 00:00 hours on August 31, 2024, until midnight on September 1, 2024’, in protest over low wages.

The strike was called against “the existence of base salaries lower than the national minimum wage” and “the systemic use of workers from temporary employment agencies,” as stated in the Sttamp’s document.

Following the release of their document, “As there has been no negotiation development to date that would allow the strike to be called off,” the Sttamp has stated that “if it were to take place it would certainly cause severe constraints at national airports.”

The union specified that in particular “Porto and

Lisbon” will feel the effects the most, “of which are currently completely unpredictable.”

The union guarantees that there will be delays and “numerous flight cancellations” to all destinations operated by airlines assis-

ted by the SPdH (Groundforce), a Portuguese handling company.

Sttamp also recommended that passengers with trips scheduled for the days of the strike confirm their travel with the services of their respective airlines.

Banksy’s art .

IRELAND

Birds return

IRELAND now has 233 areas occupied by corncrakes, more than at any time since 1999, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reported. Numbers of the shy and secretive birds with a distinctive call had increased by 45 per cent since 2018 thanks to cooperation from farmers and landowners, the NPWS said.

Great escape

ANGLERS were concerned at the escape of up to 30,000 farmed salmon in Rosroe (County Galway) after the netting on one of the cages was damaged following a collision with a fish farm boat. The massive escape posed a “serious risk” to salmon genetics should they interbreed with wild salmon, experts said.

FRANCE

Summer fire

A WILDFIRE fanned by strong winds in southern France forced thousands to flee before 600 firefighters brought the blaze under control, regional officials said on August 19. They included 3,000 tourists from a campsite in Canet-en-Roussillon, near Perpignan, who were temporarily housed in a municipal building.

Loubo lives

LOUBO, a dog belonging to Alain Delon who died on August 18, will not be put down and buried with him as the late actor had wanted. Responding to an outcry from animal protection groups, the Brigitte Bardot Foundation announced that Delon’s family had emphasised that his last wish would not be carried out.

ITALY

Finally found

A HIKER in the Forcella Serauta mountains discovered the remains of two Italian soldiers who died there during the White War between Italy and Austria-Hungary (1915-1918). The bodies, exposed after the recent heatwave melted the ice which usually covers the area, will be buried in the Asiago military cemetery.

Dear Milan

RENTING a single room is more expensive in Milan than any other city, online estate agency Immobiliare.it found. Monthly rents averaged €637 compared with the national average of €461 although in Garibaldi, Moscova and Porta Nuova, Milan’s most expensive districts, one room would cost a monthly €720.

EURO PRESS

DENMARK

Hidden treasure

GUSTAV BRUNSGAARD, a 22-yearold archaeology student, found seven silver bracelets while using a metal detector in Elsted, an area that was once a Viking settlement. Experts said the ninth century bracelets weighing more than 500 grammes would have been a “considerable treasure” at the time.

VIKING TREASURE: Located by an archaeology student.

SWEDEN

Whisky sour

SWEDISH whisky distiller Mackmyra filed for bankruptcy, citing escalating problems with cash flow and profitability. The company’s shares slid in mid-2021 but after reaching an all-time low in April this year, the newly-appointed board decided to cease operations on the company’s 25th anniversary.

Out of work

FINLAND NORWAY

Tit-for-tat

FLOATING fjord saunas in Oslo’s Aker Brygge district could be removed or fined after two that are owned by the KOK company were found to be operating without permits. The infringement came to light after city hall received a tipoff from rival sauna Mad Goats, which was fined earlier for lacking its own permit.

In a fix

NORWAY’S Competition Authority took a tough line with the three companies that control 95 per cent of the country’s supermarkets, fining them a total of 4.9 billion krone (€417 million). They had been breaking competition law “for years”, the Authority said, by exchanging information amongst themselves to agree prices.

Red skies

SUNSETS were redder than usual over Finland around August 20 when smoke from forest fires in Canada drifted over the country. Fine particles were so high that they did not cause health problems or unusual odours, while the red skies were the result of particles filtering the rays of the setting sun, meteorologists said.

Berry permits

FINLAND has granted 900 residence permits to seasonal Thai workers hired to bring in the 2024 fruit harvest. Their eventual arrival in mid-August surprised the authorities as Thailand had previously barred their departure following reports that the Finnish berry farms allegedly exploited and mistreated Thai employees.

THE number of jobless university students in July was 33 per cent higher than during the same month last year, according to unemployment insurance fund Akademikernas a-kassa. Spokesperson Alexandra Oljans Ahlin said unemployment always rose in the summer, but this year was unexpectedly higher.

GERMANY

Non grata

RUSSIA’S lower house, the Duma, proposed that Deutsche Welle, Germany’s state-owned international broadcaster, and the British Council should be put on the list of ‘undesirable’ organisations. Those cooperating or establishing contacts with them, will now be subject to ‘administrative and criminal liability’.

Chips ahoy

THE European Commission approved a €5 billion grant enabling Germany to assist the European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) in building and operating a microchip manufacturing plant in Dresden. Once operating at full capacity by 2029, they will be able to produce an annual 480,000 semiconductors.

PORTUGAL BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

Seal seen

A HEALTHY seal was spotted at the Fisherman’s beach in central Cascais, further along the coast near the Monte Estoril boardwalk and also in Oeiras. The local authorities warned members of the public not to approach it, as “seals look harmless and playful, but they bite if they feel threatened.”

Clammed up

OLHAO’S Maritime Police seized 10 kilos of coquina clams after a Portuguese Navy ship reported seeing a pleasure boat that was trawling in front of Culatra island in Faro. On reaching the boat and inspecting their catch, officers saw that the clams were still alive and returned them to their natural habitat.

Home again

A MAN who disappeared from an Ostend beach returned to his Aalst home in swimming trunks and caught a train where no tickets were checked. Worried friends, unaware that he was safe, contacted the police who launched a search operation, prompting Ostend’s mayor to later question “some people’s sense of responsibility.”

Mass appeal

WHEN Pope Francis visits Belgium between September 26-29 he will say Mass before more than 35,000 in Brussels on the final day. Free tickets offered to the public via the Ticketmaster platform on August 19 at 10am were snapped up so fast that more will be printed for disappointed applicants.

Nothing to do

TWO vulnerable girls aged 12 and 14 admitted setting fire to a shop, which was destroyed, and attempting to start fires in another six in an Alkmaar shopping centre. “It’s the holidays, they have no school, nothing to do all day,” their lawyer said. “We cannot see inside the brain of an adolescent.”

Eagle shield

AN offshore Zeeland wind farm is the second in the province to use smart cameras which automatically slow the turbine blades after spotting sea eagles and other big birds when they are 1.1 kilometres away. Fast-turning blades have killed numerous large birds, prompting calls for all wind farms to install protection systems.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Soulful Weekender

Donna William

IF you are after soul music, thanks to an event brought by Nspiration, it is available in Javea for four whole days! Following the success of the first one, the Javea Soulful Weekend is back and will take place between September 12 and 15 at a host of different venues in Javea.

The lineup promises an unforgettable experience, providing the perfect soundtrack for an amazing extended weekend in the sun. It features a stellar selection of national and international DJs, bringing a diverse range of musical genres, inclu-

ding Rare Grooves, Jazz Funk, Soulful House, 80s soul, 90s RnB, Amapiano, UK and US Garage, and a sprinkle of reggae vibes.

The festivities kick off with the opening party on Thursday 12 at the trendy La Llum in Javea’s old town. Then, on Friday 13, a special daytime and night-time event will take place at El Momento in Tosalet. Saturday 14 is all about the Black & Gold themed Pool Party at Isla Bonita. The fun

doesn’t stop there; it will be followed by a secret after-party that goes into the early hours at Europe’s oldest establishment, The Hacienda. Finally, on Sunday 15, the weekend will wrap up with the themed ‘White Party Finale’ at Kandhala on the town’s Arenal.

Full weekend wristbands are priced at €100 for all exclusive events, and they can be purchased by calling WhatsApp 0044 7834 834 645.

Beer Culture

DELVE into the captivating realm of beer culture and its storied past at the Althaia brewery in Altea. Uncover the art and science of craft beer brewing, from the selection of raw materials to the intricacies that distinguish craft beer from mass-produced varieties. Whether you are a connoisseur of craft beers or have only sampled one or two, this brewery allows you to witness firsthand the elaborate production process that goes into creating these unique beverages.

Following a tour of the brewery, your journey will continue to the tap

room, a distinctive space featuring a terrace that offers scenic views of the brewery. Here, you’ll savour four distinct Althaia beers directly drawn from their barrels in the factory. These exquisite brews will be thoughtfully paired with a selection of fine cheeses, cold cuts, and delectable bread. Cap off the experience with a delicious slice of cookie pizza complemented by one of their irresistible dark beers.

The entire activity is

expected to last approximately one and a half to two hours. Children are welcome to join adults on the tour at no additional cost, and in the tap room, they offer a range of craft refreshments for the little ones.

The cost is €23 per person, and tours are available on Friday afternoons, Saturday mornings and afternoons, and Sunday mornings. Bookings can be made by visiting www. cervezasalthaia.com.

Credit:

FB:Nspiration

Wine

Donna Williams

A fun fi lled afternoon

Lover

FOR wine lovers, a very special event will take place on Friday September 6, starting at 6.30pm and continuing into the early hours at the Eucalyptus Park in Albir. Literally called ‘Albir Wine Lover’, this year’s event will feature a wide array of local and international wine producers alongside a variety of restaurants, craft beers, and exclusive spirits.

Attendees can expect over 250 wine options, live music from the Babylon orchestra, and various DJs. In addition to wine tastings, there will also be a unique wine roulette activity that offers an engaging and immersive experience for wine enthusiasts of all levels. Guided by an expert sommelier, participants will engage

their senses and intuition to identify different types of wines, providing a mix of excitement, knowledge, and a touch of luck.

To add to the excitement, raffles will be held during the event, with winners selected based on unique numbers printed on each ticket. Advance tickets, priced at €15 and including a wine glass, are available for purchase through designated outlets listed at www.albirwinelover.es.

On the day of the event, tickets can also be obtained from designated points within the venue and exchanged for wine tastings at the various stands.

To make the event as accessible as possible, a shuttle bus will run to and from l’Alfas del Pi and Eucalyptus Park, departing at 6.00pm and 2.00am, respectively.

ON Sunday September 15, Albir will come alive with a unique event that blends two quintessentially British traditions: cricket and afternoon tea. This special charity event, organised by MABS Cancer Support invites you to spend a delightful afternoon at the Woodbridge Oval, all in the name of a good cause.

Whether you are a seasoned cricket fan or someone who simply enjoys the camaraderie of community events, this charity match promises

to be a fun-filled experience and the best part, no cricket experience is necessary to join in.

For those that prefer to watch, there’s plenty to look forward to as well, including a raffle. Sit back and enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea complete with a glass of cava, delicate sandwiches, an array of cakes and of course, scones served with jam and cream.

Adding to the atmosphere, Tim Ames and Jamie Somers will provide live entertainment,

ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Tickets are available from the MABS shop in Alfaz (open MondayFriday 10.00 till 13.00), Quicksave Albir, the clubhouse or you can secure your booking by contacting Irena on 634 374 754.

All proceeds from this event will go directly to MABS, who provide assistance to those affected by cancer - by attending you will be making a meaningful contribution to the lives of those that need it most.

We welcome you to our Bar on the beach front where we offer you a warm welcome.

Seafood BBQ

Donna Williams

SITUATED in the serene town of La Nucia, you’ll find the delightful La Alegría Bistro. This family-operated restaurant exudes charm and warmth, providing a welcoming and unhurried dining experience for its patrons.

The diverse menu at La Alegría Bistro showcases an extensive selection of dishes, from traditional Spanish cuisine to internationally inspired flavours. Whether you’re in the mood

for light, tantalising appetisers or hearty, satisfying meals, this eatery has something for everyone. And let’s not forget the tempting array of delectable home-made desserts!

For those who have yet to discover this hidden gem or for returning visitors seeking an excuse to indulge, mark your calendars for Saturday August 31. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience all that La Alegría Bistro has to offer, as they are hosting a seafood BBQ

with a delicious selection of fish, seafood and salads.

The ‘all you can eat’ evening will also feature live music from James Ganter. For those who have not heard him perform, he favours all-time classics from the soul, country, blues, and rock‘n’roll genres.

The event starts at 7.00pm, and tickets, priced at €25 per person, can be purchased by calling 0034 604 440 472.

Coldplace

FORMED by Coldplay fans, for Coldplay fans, this UK tribute band is coming to the Palau Altea Centre on Saturday September 7.

If you are a lover of Coldplay then get ready for an unforgettable experience as Coldplace, the world’s premier Coldplay tribute band, brings the magic of Coldplay’s music to life in an electrifying live concert.

Endorsed and authorised by Coldplay themselves, this extraordinary band will take you on a journey through two decades of Coldplay’s biggest hits, from classics like Yellow, Higher Power, A Sky Full of Stars and The Scientist to their latest chart-topping anthem My Universe.

Coldplace has been captivating audiences for over 17 years with its exceptional ability to faithfully replicate the electrifying energy of Coldplay’s live shows. Their performances feature stunning vi-

suals, dazzling laser displays, and impeccably synchronised lighting, all of which capture the essence of attending a Coldplay concert. Coldplace also provides audience members with Xyloband LED wristbands, an iconic

element associated with Coldplay’s live performances.

The concert starts at 10.00pm and lasts 1.5 hours. Ticket prices starting at €25 from the Palau Altea Centre website (pa laualtea.entradas.plus).

Credit: FB: LaAlegriaBistro

Carrer Pare Pere, 19, Denia, Alicante

634 34 34 90

We are open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 24:00 www.reinamoradenia.com

Menu September

SALAD • COUSCOUS OR TAGINE • DESSERT AND A DRINK INCLUDED 15 EUROS

At Reina Mora we prepare recipes that have been passed from generation to generation in our family

From the early hours of the morning our ovens are already at work with the finest ingredients, crafting the authentic delicacies that grace your table: Couscous, Tagines, Mechoui, Pastella... and, of course, our Moroccan sweets are freshly made each day, offering a single bite that will whisk you away to the vibrant flavours of West Africa."

La Terraza Opening Party

Donna Williams

GET ready for the big opening party of a brand new restaurant coming to Denia. Set in peaceful tranquility and only a ‘stone’s throw away’ from the stunning Las Rotes Beach, La Terraza is preparing to bring ‘good food, good mood and good music’ to the area.

With such a picturesque setting, guests can look forward to spectacular views of the breathtaking Montgo as they relax with a cocktail or their favourite tipple. Their opening night will be August 31, and they have arranged a very special evening to celebrate. It kicks off at 9.00pm with two hours of live music from

enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine with the most beautiful beaches in La Marina just 2 minutes away

Carrer Riu Grande, 1, 03779 Dénia, Alicante 965 75 53 32

Of fering a wide variety of amazing rice dishes and burgers to spectacular pastries and sweets.

Carr. de les Marines a Dénia, 196, 03700 Dénia, Alicante. 625 77 52 45

the incredibly talented duo Black Velvet. This will be followed by a fun karaoke session hosted by the fabulous LA Karaoke, and it is expected to be a late one!

If you are looking to make a real evening of it, why not try out their delectable menu of freshly crafted dishes, including succulent rotisserie chickens cooked on an open BBQ on their expansive terrace? They also offer vegetarian food options and cater to those who have an intolerance to gluten.

They are expecting a large turnout for their opening night, so booking is highly recommended, and this can be carried out at www.laterrazadenia.com.

Vroom Vroom!

IF you are into cars and haven’t yet visited the Motor Museum in Finestrat, you are missing out. Housed within a distinctive three-storey building, it boasts a captivating permanent exhibition showcasing classic vehicles and iconic film cars. In fact, it would appear that the famous ‘Herbie’ has made himself very much at home there, alongside Knight Rider’s Kitt, and the van from the A-Team!

The museum’s impressive collection comprises approximately 60 privately owned vehicles and several others on loan. Notable highlights among the exhibits include a 1923 Dodge Brothers model, a 1962 Cadillac Fleetwood limousine that once belonged to the Spanish government during the Franco era, two impeccably maintained Delorean DMC-12s, and the exclusive Aston Martin Lagonda, of which only 645 units were ever manufactured, with just five being equipped with the rare exposed sports kit.

An authentically looking diner, complete with retro camper vans, brings a sense of fun to the museum and ‘welcomes you to the 50s’. Additionally, the museum features a dedicated area for road safety education and training, a state-of-the-art restoration workshop, a screening room, a children’s play zone, a recreational area, and the obligatory souvenir shop specialising in automobile memorabilia.

AZTK Club

IMMERSING guests in the world of electronic music, El Club is a haven for techno enthusiasts and its diverse subgenres. Featuring a cutting-edge sound system, the club ensures that every beat pulsates from within, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.

Fridays are dedicated to intense techno nights for true aficionados, with Friday, August 30, bringing something extra special. The AZTK Club are putting on a night to remember with four techno stars lined up. These include local talent Paula Fields, No_IP and resident Manyez. Alongside them, Raxon will also be in the house.

Raxon has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the most esteemed electronic artists in the Middle East. Originally from Egypt and currently residing in Barcelona, his childhood experiences and deep love for music have inspired him to create his distinctive style, which is characterised by powerful bass and techno influences.

AZTK Club is located at Ctra. Moraira-Teulada, 03724 Moraira and tickets are available by visiting www.aztk.club.

Bachatazo Festival

Donna Williams

IF you enjoy Bachatazo, get ready because it is returning to Gandia. This exciting four-day event will be held at the luxurious Hotel Gandia Palace, situated only 100 metres from the beach, from Thursday August 29, to Sunday September 1.

With more than 20 artists and DJs lined up from Alicante, Madrid, Valencia, Navarra, Zaragosa, Salamanca and, of course, Gandia, this is going to be an event to remember. The full schedule for the four days is as follows:

Thursday

Workshops will be held from 5.30pm to 8.30pm and again from 10.00pm to 11.00pm. This will be followed by a party until 5.00am.

Friday

Workshops will be held from 12.00pm to

2.00pm and then from 4.00pm to 8.00pm. This will be followed by the beach party from 6.00pm to 9.00pm. There will then be another workshop for one hour at 11.00pm, then another party until 6.00am.

Saturday

Workshops will be held from 10.00am to 8.00pm, followed by a show at 11.00pm and then another party into the early hours.

Sunday

Workshops will be held from 11.00am to 6.00pm, followed by a no doubt much-needed pool party. There will then be an evening Bachata workshop starting at 10.00pm for one hour and then (of course!) another party until 4.00am!

There are a variety of payment options ranging from a one-night pass through to a full pass for all four days. Details can be found at www.allevents.in.

IF you’re keen on exploring Javea by mountain bike but would rather not deal with strenuous pedalling, an electric bike tour might be the perfect solution. These tours allow you to immerse yourself in nature, offering various trail options that lead you up the hills and toward secluded lookout points. Here, riders are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding area.

Explore the charming traditional villages, historical landmarks, and settlements at your own pace.

While the routes and terrain can be adjusted according to the group’s abilities, participants should have at least a moderate level of fitness to enjoy the tour fully. Groups of up to 10 people can choose from multiple routes based on their preferences. For a serene experience, your guide will take you along the picturesque Mirador routes. These paths lead to Javea’s renowned Miradors, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the glistening coastline and the lush, scenic surroundings.

Alternatively, thrill-seekers can opt for exhilarating routes that deviate from the usual tracks, guiding riders along Javea’s captivating coastline. These adventurous paths encompass diverse terrains, from rugged hills to concealed trails, promising an adrenaline-fueled biking adventure.

The cost is €60 per person, and the tour lasts an average of 2.5 hours. The price includes a professional local guide and bike hire.

For further information, visit www.viator.com.

Tango Eterno

Donna Williams

THE exotic world of Tango comes to Calpe at the end of August with a production from Tango Eterno, the dance company of internationally acclaimed Sol Povarchik. On August 31, he will bring his fantastic show ‘Cuore’ to the House of Culture Auditorium. The evening will start at 8.00pm, and admission will be free, space permitting.

This not-to-be-missed production will feature a stellar lineup of artists, including the exceptional musicians Daniel Binelli and Polly Ferman, whose unparalleled collaboration showcases the bandoneon and piano, breathing new life into tango, milonga, candom-

be, and other Latin American musical genres.

Adding to the allure of the performance is the presence of tango dancer, teacher and choreographer Diego Escobar. With a career in dance that spans more than 20 years, he was chosen among the 100 most outstanding personalities of the 100 years of Villa Carlos Paz, his hometown.

Esteemed dancers Christina Cortes, Goldie Aurum, and Daniel Toloza, along with musician Lila Horowitz and singer Daniela Horowitz, will join this talented ensemble. They will captivate the audience as they showcase their talents, bringing tango to life in their own unique way.

Javea 2024

Sunday September 1

A day dedicated to children, including chocolate, water games, fun inflatable bulls, paella, soft drinks, and ice cream. In addition, there will be a grand parade at 7.30pm beginning at the Fisherman’s Market and finishing at the Plaza A Suarez.

Thursday September 5

A fun Grand Prix will take place at 11.30am on Calle Doctor Fleming where the Peñas Marineras and their friends will have to demonstrate their skills by overcoming intrepid challenges.

FROM Thursday, August 29, Javea will be filled with decorated balconies, terraces, and shop windows in honour of ‘Mare de Deu de Loreto’.

The celebrations will be in full flow until Sunday September 8, with a detailed programme of activities to look forward to, as has come to be expected from the town fiestas. Some of the highlights include:

Friday August 30

From 4.30pm until 9.00pm the best DJs, bar service, table football and many more surprises will take place on Calle Virgen de Loreto.

Saturday September 7

A musical show, ‘La Fuerza del Destino’, in tribute to the popular group Mecano, will be at 10.30pm followed by the obligatory midnight fireworks.

Sunday September 8

This being the final day, there is a lot happening, including parades, a mascleta and a dance with the Scream orchestra. The grand finale will be a sensational fireworks castle which will take place at 12.30am, with the dance then continuing until 3.00am.

The full schedule can be found at www.ajxabia.com.

Binelli-Foreman Duo

Beware

of the croc

THE red flag was hoisted and L’Arenal beach in L’Hospitalet de l’Infant (Tarragona) closed early on August 22.

A security guard hired to keep an overnight watch over inflatable slides and other floating attractions raised the alarm after catching a glimpse of a crocodile that he believed to be 1.5 metres long.

He said afterwards that he had also seen its tracks in the sand.

Local Police officers and lifeguards scouring the beach, assisted by members of the region’s Rural Unit, found no trace of the crocodile, and the L’Arenal beach reopened later that morning although the precautionary yellow flag was flown during the rest of the day.

Protección Civil, equivalent to Civil Defence, explained later to the Diario de Tarragona newspaper that only one person had claimed to see the crocodile and they had received no other reports.

Animal experts pointed out that crocodiles are freshwater animals and it was unusual to find one in the sea, but added that they will sometimes seek salt water to heal a wound.

Drop-off charges

DRIVERS who are dropping off their loved ones at Britain’s airports have been advised that many airports have been increasing their drop-off zones over the past 12 months.

The RAC, an automotive services company based in Britain, warned motorists that most popular sites continue to increase the charges applied to their drop-off zones.

According to the RAC, prices across the board have increased by up to £1 since 2023, with some airports charging upwards of £7 to use convenient drop-off areas.

Due to the poor state of public transportation systems near airports, and general public access, most travellers have no

choice but to use drop-off zones. Rob Dennis, RAC senior policy officer, recognised this, stating “To have to pay £5, £6 or even £7 for the briefest of stops to simply open the boot and take some luggage out for a friend or loved one is bordering on the ridiculous.”

Dennis added that “if the alternatives are non-existent, expensive or unreliable then what choice do people really have?”

Referring to a study carried out by RAC, the airport with the most expensive dropoff zone fee is London Stansted, charging a whopping £7 for just 15 minutes. Many other airports limit drivers to much shorter periods of time for a similar price, such as Leeds Bradford, which charges £6.50 for 10 minutes in the drop-off zone.

MANY residents of southern Portugal and Andalucia were woken up on Monday August 26 by a 5.5 magnitude earthquake. Multiple calls came into 112 emergency services from towns that felt the shake at 6.11am. The epicentre of the quake just off the coast of Lisbon, Portugal, was strong enough to be felt as far away as Morocco. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 28km, had an initial magnitude of 6.2 on the Richter scale in the Atlantic, while by the time it reached Sevilla, it registered 5.5, making it the strongest earthquake in the region in 15 years, according to seismologists. There were no immediate reports of serious damage or injuries and no tsunami warnings. The quake was the strongest to hit along the coast of Portugal since 2009, when a 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast.

One of the worst seismic disasters happened in 1755, when a powerful earthquake killed up to 50,000 people, including 10,000 in Morocco. In the last seven days, Andalucia has registered 20 cases of seismic activity, the strongest being In Alboran at 3.7 magnitude on the Richter scale, something quite common in this part of the World.

Major airports in the UK are continuing to increase their drop-off fees.

Earthquake hit off coast of Lisbon.

Credit: Shutterstock

Sevilla awoken by earthquake

Tourist tensions Air con: On or off?

TEMPERATURES in the Peninsular have been high, with July and August experiencing some of the hottest days in Spanish history.

Is it more efficient and cost-effective to leave the air con on, or to turn it off frequently?

Air con is our best ally during these heatwaves, but the cost of using it is on all of our minds.

According to experts, keeping the air conditioning on to a minimum is the best way to optimise energy consumption. However, it needs to

be noted that if it is activated and deactivated continuously the cooling process has to restart each time, which increases the consumption.

The Department of Energy recommends setting your air con at 25 degrees Celsius as, according to them, every degree under 25 degrees Celsius increases energy usage by roughly 8 per cent per degree.

It is recommended not to keep any doors or windows open while the air con is off, to avoid energy loss.

Additionally, if you have them, pull shutters, blinds or curtains down over your windows to reduce the amount of heat getting in, and the amount of cool getting out.

Good maintenance of your air con unit is also crucial to its efficiency.

A full clean of the unit should be done once every two years, however, a general clean of the filters at least once a month can help the air con’s effectiveness.

UK holidaymakers say they sympathise with protesting locals in European hotspots who are sick of over-tourism.

A new survey shows that Brits understand the concerns of residents in places like Spain, the Balearics and Greece, who say they’re being priced out of living in their home towns by holiday lets and rarely see the benefit of holiday spending.

The survey, carried out by the UK’s leading stag and hen organiser, Last Night of Freedom, found that 64 per cent of people agreed or strongly agreed that they should take only one foreign holiday a year, while 86 per cent thought that tourism spending should benefit local small businesses.

More than seven out of 10 also be-

Europe’s

EDUCATION is critical to the development of a ge neration and a country as a whole.

The adult population in Europe with tertiary education, referring to the highest level, varies across the continent.

According to data from Eurostat, a Di rectorate-General of the European Commission, almost one-third of adults aged 25-74 in the European Union have a higher education degree, including public and private universities, colleges, technical training institutes and vocational schools.

lieve that British tourists should be able to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences abroad, like stag or hen parties or weddings, without guilt.

But the news that could worry tourism chiefs in cities which have launched specific ‘stay away’ campaigns to discourage British visitors, like Prague and Barcelona, less than a quarter of respondents (21 per cent) said that they would feel comfortable visiting cities that are openly hostile to tourists.

Of the 250 people surveyed, 42 per cent said their perfect stag or hen party would be held in a European destination, while just under 51 per cent would want to stay in the UK, with the rest looking beyond Europe’s borders for their ultimate break.

most educated

25-74 had a higher education, which was over the EU’s ‘Big Four’ countries.

France had the highest share among them, followed by Spain at 38 per cent, while Romania had the lowest followed by Italy at 18.5 per cent.

According to data from 2022, on average 31.8 per cent of people aged 25-74 years in the EU had achieved a higher education.

Nordic and Baltic countries have more graduates than the EU average, with Sweden and Norway ranking third and fourth with over 45 per cent of tertiary education graduates, and Latvia with 44 per cent of the population having a higher education degree.

In the UK, 43.5 per cent of the population aged

However, it is Ireland that is statistically the most educated, with 49.8 per cent of the population attaining a higher education.

According to data from 35 European countries, women aged 25-34 had a higher proportion of tertiary education attainment than men.

In 2022, on average, the proportion of women with tertiary education was 47.6 per cent compared to 36.5 per cent for men.

Holidaymakers sympathise with protesting locals in European hotspots.

CON: On or off?

Overtourism: When your favourite spot becomes a selfie sumo wrestle!

FROM COAST TO COAST

IT’S pretty self-explanatory: overtourism is when we all flock to the same iconic spot for the exact same selfie, turning a picturesque landmark into a people soup. Basically, it’s the art of ruining a place by loving it too much.

So here’s my joke of the week: A husband and wife packed their suitcases in a rush, barely making it to the airport on time. The wife said, “I wish I’d brought the refrigerator.”

“Why?” asked the husband.

“Our tickets are on top of it!” :)

Everyone’s buzzing about it, so here’s my unsolicited two cents. I’ve been that wide-eyed tourist, feeling locals’ icy stares like I’d crash-landed from another galaxy. Now I’m savouring the sweet revenge. If you’re a local, you know the drill: supermarkets are sardine cans, highways are parking lots, and restaurants have waits longer than your last relationship. It’s like we’re all extras in ‘Tourist Takeover: The Revenge’, and spoiler alert: the plot’s a disaster.

On New Year’s Eve in NYC, we arrived at 10am, hoping for a fancy ball drop. By 8pm, we hadn’t reached Times Square, spent an hour waiting for a bathroom, and felt like a human traffic jam. Our ‘best night ever’ became a ‘worst nightmare’ with no restrooms, overpriced everything, and freezing cold. We were a miserable river of people just trying to escape.

Why is everyone travelling so

much? Cities are packed with tourists, and it seems like you need to go somewhere, even just for a selfie. With cheap plane tickets, travel is now accessible to many, whereas it was a luxury for the wealthy just 40 years ago.

Back then, honeymooners might have dreamed of a quiet beach in Spain. Today, those honeymooners are jetting off to the Canary Islands, Bali, or Cancun. The world has opened up so much that everyone, from middle-class families to adventurous souls, can explore far-flung destinations. A friend of mine spent less than €700 to visit Bali - proof that exotic travel is more accessible than ever.

It makes me wonder if the world feels smaller for mega-wealthy individuals, who are now planning trips to space or Mars.

I’m all about travel - who isn’t? But outright rejecting tourism isn’t the answer, though a few tourists chilling on Mars might be a win. Let’s focus on respecting local cultures and managing the tourist flood. How about a system that actually works? Maybe offer further discounts for off-peak travel so we don’t all show up at once. Encourage smarter holiday planning and thinking outside the box.

Let’s revive travel agents - they’re the ultimate vacation planners. Pair them with local tourist offices to manage the crowds and keep popular spots from becoming chaos. It’s a win-win!

And last but not least, here’s an undeniable truth: We’re all time travellers, moving at the precise speed of 60 minutes per hour. Bon Voyage!

Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

MOVALDI’S AMERICAN 2 CENTS SNAPSHOT

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Knuckles rapped

THE Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) imposed a £15 million (€17.6 million) fine on PwC, one the Big Four accounting firms.

According to the FCA, PwC missed ‘a number of red flags’ when carrying out an audit on London Capital & Finance (LCF) and failed to make an immediate report of suspected fraud.

Lots of pizza

CASA TARRADELLAS posted a record €1.37 billion turnover for2023,18percentupon2022 and its best annual growth in more than 20 years as well as its first double figures since 2010. The Catalan company, best known for pizzas, ended 2023 with 2,948 employees, 10 per cent up on the previous year.

Shops closed

TED BAKER, trading as No Ordinary Designer Label, fell into administration in March 2024, when it shut 15 shops. The fashion firm which delisted after US group Authentic brought it for £210 million (€246.5 million) in 2022, has now closed its remaining 31 stores, entailing the loss of 513 jobs.

Grain gain

SPAIN’S cereal harvest will top 22.5 million tons this year according to estimates prepared by the Cooperativas Agroalimentarias, which represents more than 3,600 cooperatives throughout the country. This was well above the 17-million-ton average of recent years but far below 2020’s record 27 million tons.

Hat trick

THE hat which actor Harrison Ford wore in Temple of Doom, the second instalment of the Indiana Jones films, fetched $630,000 (€564,42) at auction in Los Angeles. The brown felt fedora-style hat that was made specially for the film later belonged to Ford’s stuntdouble Dean Ferrandini who died in 2023.

STAT OF WEEK

€2.1 billion

paid out in dividends to US multinational investment company BlackRock by 21 of Spain’s Ibex 35 companies during the first quarter of 2024.

Sky clouds over for BT

BT’S market value plummeted by around £1 billion (€1.17 billion) after Sky signed up with CityFibre to deliver broadband for its network in 2025.

The transaction dealt an unexpected blow to BT, which currently provides the service for Sky via its Openreach network. Shares sank by 8.2 per cent when the news first broke on August 20, eventually closing 6.4 per cent down.

News of the Sky deal cancelled out most of BT’s gains following Bharti Enterprises’ announcement on August 12 that the Indian conglomerate had acquired a 24.5 per cent holding in the company.

Shares rose to 145p (€1.70) before falling to 136p (€1.59) on August 20, giving the company a market value of £13.5 billion (€15.8 billion).

Despite the Sky setback, City insiders saw the commercial impact as “manageable” for BT.

“Sky would maintain its long-term relationship with BT’s Openreach, given the significantly larger size of its network,” analysts at the Citigroup investment bank told the Telegraph

Meanwhile, an Openreach spokesperson said the UK’s fibre broadband market was becoming increasingly competitive.

“We’re building fibre faster, more efficiently and providing better customer experience than anyone,” the statement continued, pointing out that with more than 15 million premises reached, it expected this to reach 30 million by the end of the decade.

CityFibre is one of Britain’s largest alternative network - ‘alt net’ - providers challenging both BT’s Openreach and Virgin media. It already has a broadband network of more than 3.8 million homes and premises with plans to extend this to eight million.

A very exclusive club

INDITEX shares rose above €48 on August 20, giving the company a market value of €150.035 billion.

That made the fashion chain, owner of the Zara, Massimo Dutti and Stradivarius labels, the first Spanish company with a capitalisation of more than €150 billion.

Inditex is now the most valuable of the companies listed on Spain’s Ibex 35, an index of the country’s 35 most-traded companies, putting it ahead of energy giant Iberdrola, worth €80 billion,

Bedford project

UNIVERSAL is discussing tax incentives with UK ministers regarding a future multibillion resort in Bedford.

Comcast, Universal’s owners, bought the 500 acres (202.3 hectares) of land as a possible site for Europe’s largest theme park in 2023.

According to the Financial Times, Comcast’s decision will partly depend on the outcome of the government talks.

Should they fail, Comcast could look elsewhere in Europe for the project, the FT’s sources said.

and Banco Santander (€67 billion).

On the Euro Stoxx 50 index of 50 stocks from 11 Eurozone countries, Inditex comes sixth.

The Spanish company is preceded by ASML, the world’s leading supplier for the semiconductor industry and worth €339.85 billion); luxury brand MVMH (€339.2 billion); German software company Sap (€243.5 billion); another luxury brand Hermes (€231 billion) and L’Oreal (€206.4

Fillip for Grifols

BROOKFIELD ASSET MANAGEMENT

is in talks with banks to refinance Grifols’ €9.5 billion debt, prior to a takeover.

Shares in the Spanish plasma therapeutics company rose by 6 per cent in Madrid as news leaked out regarding the Toronto real estate investment company’s plans.

One source close to the transaction, quoted by Bloomberg on condition of anonymity, said the funding would probably be in dollars. Another revealed that participating banks had committed to backing the loans before spreading them amongst third-party investors.

The Barcelona-headquartered company said in July that the Grifols family and Brookfield had already agreed to the takeover in a move that will almost certainly lead to delisting.

billion).

Inditex shares sixth place with TotalEnergies, which is also worth just over €150 billion.

On track in Saudi Arabia

SPANISH rolling stock manufacturer Talgo is in talks to supply Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) with a further 20 high-speed trains.

Talgo’s chief executive Gonzalo Urquijo revealed recently that the company had “intensified” contacts with SAR without reaching agreement regarding prices.

The original €1.6 billion, 12-year contract signed in 2012 to provide and maintain trains for the Medina-Mecca railway included an option to provide additional units.

This was now necessary as passenger numbers had increased, and Urquijo said Talgo was prepared to provide the trains but emphasised that costs had risen “substantially” since the €35 million per train agreed in 2012.

BRITISH firm Mamod, founded in 1936, has ceased producing scale models of steam engines.

Owner Adrian Lockrey told the Daily Mail that the company made a steady £50,000 (€58,714) a month until sales plunged 50 per cent in February.

The miniature engines are powered by hexamine tablets, now banned as they can be used to create explosives. It was like selling a torch without batteries, he told Counter-terrorism in London, but the authorities were adamant that Lockrey could not sell the tablets.

“It’s heartbreaking,” he lamented.

THE Post Office spent £256.9 million (€301.6 million) on engaging 15 law firms and two barristers’ chambers between 2014 and 2024.

Their services were required for the Horizon IT scandal where innocent subpostmasters were accused of apparent financial shortfalls actually caused by flawed software.

The amounts involved were made public following a freedom of information request from the Lawyer magazine.

The outlay on legal costs was practically identical to the financial redress of £261 million (€306.5 million) paid out so far to Horizon victims.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

company Digi has grown more than any other Spanish company but its debt has increased at the same time. Over the last 18 months this rose by 35.2 per cent from €1.1 billion at the end of 2022 to €1.5 billion by June 30, 2024.

Consultants quoted in the Spanish media said that Digi’s debt did not entail significant financial risks, since this was a manageable 2.3 times more than the company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation.

BT: £1 billion wiped from market value after Sky chooses CityFibre.

Photo credit: BT

Photo credit: FB/Amancio Ortega Español Oficial

AMANCIO ORTEGA: Founder of Inditex, now worth €150 billion.

3I Group 3.192,68 3.204,00 3.179,00 29,87K

Group 2.929,00 2.958,00 2.924,00 8,44K Airtel Africa 113,93 114 112,6 188,86K

American 2.252,00 2.252,50 2.240,00 55,39K

95,81K

22,81K

British Foods 2.495,00 2.499,00 2.485,00 16,39K

13.128,00 13.132,00 13.052,00 97,75K

Trader Group Plc 837,6 841,8 837 123,54K

496,65 497,4 494,3 533,95K B&M European Value Retail SA 442,2 443,6 438,8 345,06K BAE Systems 1.308,00 1.320,00 1.308,00 136,46K

227,18 228,15 225,85 2,64M

Developments 552,89 556,6 551,4 100,57K

Beazley 755 761 754,5 71,76K Berkeley 5.165,00 5.185,00 5.150,00 7,7K BP 428,23 430,85 427,9 2,67M British American Tobacco 2.768,00 2.777,00 2.766,00 134,05K

3.188,00 3.196,00 3.186,00 20,89K

BUSINESS

EXTRA

New

entry

PRIVATE EQUITY

company Carlyle Group has acquired a 60 per cent stake in technology consultancy, Seidor, based in Vic (Barcelona) for an undisclosed sum. The remaining 40 per cent stays in the hands of the Benito family, who founded the business in 1984.

Fast food

MCDONALD’S is to spend £1 billion (€1.17 billion) on more than 200 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland over the next four years, focusing on high street locations. The expansion plans will also create approximately 24,000 new jobs.

Pawnshops back in business

THE owners of small British businesses are turning to pawnshops for cash.

One of the UK’s largest pawnbrokers, H&T, with 282 premises nationwide, explained that with banks agreeing to fewer business loans, people were pawning personal possessions.

Builders and shopkeepers were going to H&T, its chief executive Christ Gillespie revealed, after failing to obtain funding for more materials or new stock.

Tasty

“We’ve got people who use it to pay their quarterly VAT bill or wages,”

deal

ALVARO MORATA, captain of Spain’s national football team, and his business partner Pablo Nuño sold part of their Manolo Bakes holding for €5.5 million.

Arte y Sano Millenium, jointly owned by Morata and Nuño, currently has a 30.7 per cent holding after selling 5,838 of their shares to VGO Capital, a UK private equity firm.

he said.

Items pledged to H&T were usually valued at

The British company has become Manolo Bakes’ principal shareholder after paying €14.2 million for the shares owned by the Manzano family, creators of the original recipe for the popular ‘Manolito’ croissants.

VGO spent a total of €27.5 million on acquiring 49.9 per cent of the company and now plans to open further branches of the bakery chain outside Spain.

around £200 (€234.50) with an average loan worth less than that.

Gillespie nevertheless added that more businesses were asking to borrow £5,000 (€5,862), bringing in expensive watches and jewellery as

“The banks will not lend you money against your watch,” he pointed out.

On repaying a loan, the pawned articles are returned, otherwise they are sold through H&T’s retail stores.

The value of the chain’s pledge book stood at £105 million (€123.1 million) by June 2024 compared with £101 million (€118.4 million) in December 2023.

Income rose to £55.8 million (€55.4 million), 11 per cent up on the previous year, while pre-tax profits of £9.9 million (€11.6 million) increased by 12.5 per cent.

Build it up

BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS is now on course for a £2.5 billion (€2.9 billion) takeover of Redrow, six months after announcing a deal that would give Redrow shareholders control over one-third of the business. The transaction will create the UK’s biggest housebuilder, capable of putting up a potential 23,000 homes each year and creating revenues of £7 billion (€8.2 billion).

Family affair

CORPORACION

CES-

LAR, the third most-important el Corte Ingles shareholder and the company that handles the 9 per cent holding belonging to relatives of the department store’s founder Ramon Areces, posted a net profit of €24 million last year. This was mainly due to €12.9 million received in dividends, a 68 per cent increase on 2022.

Photo credit: Flickr/Sarflondonunc

Defeat and misery

LEAPY

LEE

SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I AM heartily sick of the ever increasing issues in today’s society that appear to somehow, cause ‘offence’.

Although the luvvy woke and PC brigade, consistently seem to exhume more self-righteous attention seeking pathetic claptrap every day, there are actually a number of ‘offending’ examples that stick very heavily in this ol boys craw as well. The TV commercial, which showed in full close up, two girls sticking their tongues down each other’s throats. Although I am by no means against this depiction in the context of a story line, I object most strongly to this being presented as an advertising ‘norm’ in front of young, impressionable children in my front room.

What about the media onslaught of sneering ungrateful foreigners telling us how the British should run the country?

Normal heterosexuals, often nastily, being forced to accept extreme gender issues. The cruel bleeding to death of animals for Halal meat. Being told how to discipline your children, usually by

those who have none of their own. Minorities being given undemocratic precedence over majorities, simply because they are minorities. Moves to change our time honoured, much loved fairy tales, because they are deemed sexist or encouragers of sexual abuse.

The removal of centuries old important works of art, merely because they are considered offensive to a very small minority. Being told by immigrants we should change our culture to accommodate theirs. Benefit scroungers who consider their bone idle existence a ‘right’. Authorities who, citing human rights, kowtow (and are now releasing) the criminal perpetrators, while denying the rights of their victims. Women who would like us to re-establish Victorian attitudes, which presumably would include the placing of skirts on the legs of grand pianos.

The ongoing, paedophile abuse cover ups of politicians and celebrities. Being considered racist for uttering some incongruous trivial remark, often objected to by individuals, who, by their extreme reactions, reveal themselves as the biggest racists of all. Our appeasing beleaguered police, afraid to react to the insults and disorder of ethnic minorities

Nature efforts

Anna Akopyan

THE country with the most Blue Flag bea ches in the world, at least 70,000 animal species and more than 10,000 plant species, Spain is renowned for its unique environment. But how successful is it in preserving its nature?

According to UNES CO, Spain occupies the first place in the world in biosphere reserves with 53 of such spaces across the country. These are territories which successfully balance environmental conservation, cultural diversity and economic development through the relationship between people and nature.

in case they get ‘upset’ or run riot. The growth of ‘No go’ areas in major cities. The ever leaning to the left of the main media. And the biggest affront of all?

Women who constantly gripe about men who never put the seat down! There you are. That should ‘offend’ just about everyone. As a final word, I see another two horrendous attacks by suspected immigrant terrorists in both Germany and France has left dead, injured and terrified locals in their wake.

When are the authorities going to realise that high proportions of the people they are encouraging are riddled with militant extremists? Do our ‘leaders’ honestly believe that many of these people have any intention whatsoever of integrating with the law abiding innocent citizens of the Western world? Have you all lost your minds? Or is it all a devious misguided plot to change our culture into something you think can be easily manipulated? Well I’m sorry; your express train into communism has only one terminal - and it has utter defeat and misery written all over its platforms.

Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com

Wrong pilgrims on El Camino

OVERTOURISM is not just having its effect on coastal Spain, with the increasingly popular ‘El Camino’ now feeling the brunt of Spain’s booming best industry.

Last week was the turn of one careless pilgrim who provoked one of the biggest wildfires in the north of Spain’s history. The hapless 33-year-old foreign walker (of undisclosed origin) was taken into custody on Tuesday, August 20 after being accused of having levelled 800 hectares of forest and grasslands by fire. He was arrested in Foncebadon, in the province of Leon, not far from the origin of the blaze. Once the fire was underway, he calmly continued his hike as though nothing had happened. Tip-offs from other walkers helped the Guardia Civil locate the man.

This fire is just one in a litany of accusations against the upsurge in tourists participating in the Camino de Santiago over recent years. One resident of Bertola, a village where everyone grows their own crops, has woken up the next day to find walkers have made off with his lettuces. Others complain of tourists using their gardens as toilets. A local woman in Galicia complains of a case with one so-called ‘pilgrim’ who jumped her garden fence during a family barbecue, stripped naked and jumped in her swimming pool.

With such an impressive environment comes the cost of high visitation, as millions of people from all over the world travel to discover Spain’s unique beauty.

As protests against tourism continue

to rise across Spain, the residents of Barcelona are particularly frustrated about the deteriorating state of the environment.

Seventy-five per cent of the CO2 emissions from tourism come from aeroplane transport; used by 82 per cent of the visitors - Spain is also the most cruise-polluted country in Europe, with 14,496 metric tons of sulfur oxide released in 2017.

Evidently, Spanish authorities place a lot of effort into securing the country’s environment; Spain has dedicated 35.7 per cent of its land as a forest area and protected 27 per cent of its surface.

But despite the efforts, more attention is granted to the country’s economy and its relationship with tourism, which continues to worry residents and environmental organisations.

€7 to enter the EU from next year

THE European Union is to introduce a €7 fee for UK citizens to enter EU countries as from the first half of next year.

The new scheme to be applied to people from 60 non-EU countries including the UK is looking like it will be introduced around May, 2025. The system is part the Entry/Exit Scheme (EES) - which will require non-EU travellers to register fingerprints and a photo instead of having their passport stamped - will start on November 10 this year.

But is it as Orwellian as some claim? Visas for citizens not on the list of 60 non-EU will be charged €80. This new €7 waiver is aimed at more frequent visitors from countries outside of the EU. Once ID has been es -

tablished and the waiver charge has been received, it will cover visitors from outside of the EU and Schengen zone, just like the US ESTA visa, and it will be valid for three years.

Further details are yet to be released by the EU, but part of the concept is to speed up entry and

exit at passport controls once implemented. Over 700 million visitors entered the Schengen zone last year, and this new system is also expected to make it more difficult for criminals and terrorists to enter Europe including cutting down on the use of fake passports.

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Increasing tourism on El Camino out of control.

Adam Woodward

Waiver will speed up passport control.

Credit: Riccardo, Pexels

Natural spaces in Spain.

SOFAS - CHAIRS - CORNER SUITES - SOFA BEDS - OCCASIONAL PIECES - FIRESIDE CHAIRS - RECLINER CHAIRS - POWER RISER RECLINER CHAIRS

S- OCCASIONALPIECES- FIR

Food for thought

BOOSTING your memory can be as simple as making the right choices in your diet. Certain foods are known to enhance brain function, helping you stay sharp and focused. Fatty fish, like salmon and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. These healthy fats build cell membranes and promote the growth of new brain cells, crucial for memory retention.

Broccoli and leafy greens such as spinach and kale are packed with antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin K, which has been linked to improved cognitive function. Berries, particularly blueberries, are another

powerful ally, containing flavonoids that have been shown to enhance memory and slow down age-related cognitive decline.

Nuts, especially walnuts, provide a good source of vitamin

Removing

REMOVING make-up without harming your skin requires gentle techniques and the right products. Start with a gentle make-up remover or micellar water to dissolve make-up, especially around the eyes. Avoid harsh scrubbing; instead, use soft cotton pads and light, circular motions to lift away the make-up. Fo-

ne. Additionally, whole grains and avocados support brain health by improving blood flow to the brain.

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help protect your memory, keeping your mind active and healthy as you age.

make-up

llow up with a mild cleanser to remove any remaining residue. Always moisturie afterward to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid using wipes regularly, as they can be abrasive. By being gentle and using suitable products, you can effectively remove make-up while preserving your skin’s health.

Write,

reflect, revive

JOURNALING is the practice of regularly writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, providing a private space for self-reflection. This simple yet powerful habit can significantly enhance your mental and emotional well-being. By putting pen to paper, journaling allows you to process complex emotions, gain clarity, and reduce stress. It acts as a therapeutic outlet, helping to release pent-up feelings that might otherwise remain bottled up, leading to anxiety or depression.

In addition to emotional benefits, journaling can also improve cognitive function. The act of writing helps to organise thoughts and improve focus, which can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with busy or stressful lives. Journaling can also foster a greater sense of gratitude, as it encourages you to acknowledge positive experiences, no matter how small. By making journaling a regular practice, you can create a deeper connection with yourself, paving the way for enhanced self-awareness, emotional balance, and overall health. It’s a small commitment with potentially significant rewards.

Cancer breakthrough

RESEARCHERS

at Western University in Ontario, Canada have discovered a protein that can curb DNA damage.

The breakthrough discovery could have practical applications in anything from developing cancer vaccines to creating drought-resistant crops.

The researchers found the protein - called DdrC (DNA Damage Repair Protein C) - in a common bacterium named Deinococcus radiodurans. The protein has the incredible ability to withstand between 5,000 and 10,000 times the radiation that would kill a normal human cell.

Lead researcher Robert Sczabla says that Deinococcus also stands out for its ability to repair DNA that’s already been damaged. He explained that while every cell has a DNA repair mechanism, it has

clearly defined limits. According to the researchers, this breakthrough could have exciting scientific implications that extend beyond the medical world. In theory, the gene could be introduced into plants, animals, or humans to increase the DNA repair efficiency of the organism’s cells.

The hope is that this could offer hope for a

cancer vaccine in the future.

Cancer treatment currently very much relies on treatment once a diagnosis has already taken place. The prospect of a vaccine that could prevent it is an exciting one for the medical community and the many people around the world who have been touched by cancer.

Shutterstock/

Tatjana Baibakova

Whooping cough

A TENTH child has died from whooping cough as the virus outbreak rose above 10,000 cases, stated UKHSA (UK Health Security Agency), warning that children are foremost at risk.

An outbreak of whooping cough began in November last year, continuing to spread with 10 child deaths re corded in the UK; UKHSA urges pregnant women to get vaccinated to protect more children from the disease.

Whooping cough is cau sed by the bac terium Bordetella pertussis with early symptoms including a stuffy nose, low-grade fever, and a mild cough. If escalated, the condition progresses to coughing fits, distinctively accompanied by a ‘whoop’ sound upon inhalation.

occurring in the UK in 2016 with almost 6,000 confirmed cases. The cause of outbreaks isn’t determined but is related to declining immunity at the population level; something which since Covid-19 has been especially

Director of immunisation at the UKHSA Dr Mary Ramsay emphasised; “With cases continuing to rise and sadly 10 infant deaths since the outbreak began last November, ensuring women are vaccinated in pregnancy has never been more impor-

Unplug and unwind

Every few years, there are large outbreaks of the disease, with the last one

Evidence from UK health experts states that vaccination at the right time during pregnancy grants 92 per cent protection against infant death; moreover, all fully vaccinated children are 84 per cent less likely to contract whooping cough.

IN today’s digital age, reducing screen time for adults has become essential for maintaining both mental and physical health. Prolonged screen exposure is linked to eye strain, poor sleep, and even anxiety, making it crucial to find effective ways to limit screen use.

One simple strategy is to establish screenfree zones in your home,

such as the bedroom or dining area, encouraging more face-to-face interactions and restful environments. Setting specific times to unplug, particularly before bed, can also help reduce the temptation to mindlessly scroll through social media or emails.

Engaging in alternative activities, like reading a book, taking a walk, or practising a hobby,

can provide a refreshing break from screens while enhancing overall well-being. Additionally, using apps designed to monitor and limit screen time can be an eye-opener, helping you to become more aware of your usage patterns. By consciously adopting these habits, you can reclaim valuable time and improve your quality of life.

Andropause: hype or reality?

THE concept of a ‘male menopause’, often referred to as andropause, is a topic of ongoing debate among health experts. Unlike female menopause, which involves a clear and rapid drop in hormone levels, the changes in men are more gradual and less defined.

According to the NHS UK website, testosterone levels fall as men age, the decline is steady at about 1 per cent a year from around the age of 30 to 40, and this is unlikely to cause any problems in itself.

Symptoms sometimes associated with the so-called male menopause include fatigue, mood swings,

reduced libido, and difficulties with memory and concentration. However, the NHS points out that these symptoms are often linked to lifestyle factors such as stress, obesity, or lack of exercise, rather than just a decrease in testosterone levels.

Lifestyle improvements like regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress reduction can significantly alleviate these symptoms. In rarer cases where testosterone levels are significantly low, medical intervention, such as hormone replacement therapy, may be considered, but should only be pursued after consultation with a healthcare professional.

Credit: cottonbro studio, Pexels

EMERGING research continues to highlight the vital role of sleep in weight loss, suggesting that quality rest may be as crucial as diet and exercise. A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine (A monthly medical journal published by the

Slimming sleep

American Medical Association) underscores this connection, revealing that insufficient sleep can disrupt metabolism and hormone levels, particularly ghrelin and leptin, which regulate

hunger and satiety. This hormonal imbalance often leads to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods.

Furthermore, a 2023 study from the University of Chicago found that individuals who improved their sleep patterns lost more body fat compared to those who didn’t, even when both groups followed the same diet. These findings suggest that inadequate sleep not only hampers weight loss efforts but may also contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdomen, a known risk factor for various health issues.

As more evidence surfaces, it’s clear that prioritising sleep could be a simple yet powerful strategy to support weight management and overall well-being, reinforcing the importance of a holistic approach to health.

By Karan Sud Dental

Book a scale & polish

“AT our dental clinic, we believe that a healthy smile is the gateway to overall well-being. Many people are unaware that maintaining oral hygiene goes beyond just having a bright smile - it can also impact your heart health.

Regular dental cleanings, known as ‘scale and polish’, are essential in preventing periodontal disease. This gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to severe inflammation and infection. But did you know that the bacteria causing periodontal disease can also enter your bloodstream and affect your heart? Studies have shown a strong link between gum disease and cardiovascular diseases, including heart at-

tacks and strokes.

By scheduling a professional cleaning at our clinic, you’re not just investing in a radiant smile, but also taking a significant step towards protecting your heart.

Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing gentle and thorough cleanings, removing plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing

might miss.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prioritise your health by booking a ‘scale and polish’ today. Your heart will thank you for it. Let’s work together to keep your smile bright and your heart strong! Call us now to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.”

Dog lovers duped online

SCAM artists conning animal lovers on social media have just been arrested by the Guardia Civil. Their modus operandi consisted of publishing fake advertisements online claiming they were selling dogs, when the dogs never actually existed.

Operation ‘Dog Fake 2022’ identi ed nine alleged perpetrators who have been accused of fraud, money laundering and of belonging to a criminal organisation, according to a Guardia Civil statement.

An investigation began in 2022 after a urry of reports by people claiming they had been conned in online puppy sales on social network platforms. Scammers gained their trust by sending photos of the puppies and then requesting a Bizum payment or bank transfer under a va-

riety of concepts such as ‘transportation’, ‘insurance’, ‘vaccines’, among other ctitious expenses.

Division in the UK - even on scones

varra), Albacete and Cas-

Most of the victims were in Nerja (Malaga), Pamplona, Lerín (Navarra), Albacete and Castelldefels (Barcelona).

IRRESISTIBLE: Dogo Argentino puppy.

Credit: Jarda Apollo - Shutterstock

One person reported that they had been a victim of an online scam when he tried to buy a Dogo Argentino puppy through a puppy sales website. He contacted the seller and was asked to transfer €260 up front, followed by another transfer for €1,200 to cover the rental of a cage, and then a further €800 for travel insurance, of which the victim could only manage €400. And then, he was told to pay another €525 for supposed vaccinations.

THE eternal debate over how to pronounce scone has been going on for generations. Is it scone (as in ‘bone’) or scone (as in ‘gone’)?

puppy through and then a fur-

Pollsters, YouGov, have just released the results of a UK survey into how we really pronounce the word scone, and where. Some 54,400 Brits were quizzed on the subject and the result ended up looking very similar to a certain referendum result. Fifty-one per cent were insistent that you pronounce it scone (like ‘gone’) while 45 per cent voted for scone (as in ‘bone’).

There are some geographical trends, as can be expected, and the ‘gone’ sounding scone can be

found predominant in the most northerly reaches of the UK where almost 90 per cent of respondents wouldn’t budge on the issue of pronunciation. From Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria, up to the most northerly reaches of Scotland, don’t waste your time pronouncing scone like ‘bone’.

Only Essex (68 per cent) and Cornwall (58 per cent), home of the cream tea, showed that scone as in ‘bone’ outweighed any other pronunciation of the word. Most other areas of southern England

were almost 50/50 on the issue.

The highly controversial hot potato of scones didn’t stop there. YouGov also took it upon themselves to ask the British public whether one should put cream on scones rst before the jam, or if it must be jam rst followed by the cream!

Provocative talk from one of the UK’s biggest polling companies.

Sconewars - How do you pronounce it?

Spain’s plummeting birth rate

SPAIN’S baby bust began 30 years ago, and continues dropping. It’s a prime example of a trend happening across the Western World.

But how does a country like Spain cope with its plummeting fertility rate? Tax breaks for new parents, continually extending parental leave, child care benefits and even cash handouts in some EU countries have had little effect in bolstering the birthrate.

Sustaining economic growth and maintaining state pensions with an increasingly elderly population can lead to some unpopular policies, such as later retirement, increased immigration, hiking taxes and public service cuts.

In the late 1990s, not even 3 per cent of residents in Spain were

immigrants; today they account for more than 17 per cent of the population, one of the highest ratios in Europe.

Immigration has provided workers and increased growth for the country even though it registered a record-low fertility rate of under 1.2 in 2023, way below the so-called replacement level of 2.1 required to maintain a population.

In Spain, younger workers earn modest salaries, around €18,000 a

year, in often temporary jobs, not even enough to pay rent increased by gentrification, inflation and holiday rentals. University graduates typically live with their parents, when embarking on careers, which can postpone many plans, including marriage and babies.

But, the Spanish economy remains comparatively stable so far. The question is how long can Spain maintain its economy given the ageing population.

3,700 Break Rock the Boat record

Adam Woodward

IRELAND has just smashed their own world record for the biggest Rock the Boat dance, and they did it for charity.

A dance to ‘Rock the Boat’, the 1974 disco hit by The Hues Corporation, often performed at weddings and birthday parties, involves rows of people sitting down and ‘rowing’ a boat to the tune of the popular song. Particularly popular in Ireland, the dance attracted a lot more international attention after being featured on the second season of the TV series Derry Girls.

The largest recorded effort had been in May of this year, 2024 when a record 1,888 people rocked the boat in the streets of Derry.

Not to be outdone, and to really concrete Ireland as the World champions at ‘Rock the Boat’, a crowd of 3,700 participants gathered and sat in lines and ‘Rocked the Boat’ at the opening of this year’s Electric Picnic Festival, smashing the record in Stradbally, County Laois. It wasn’t just for fun, though. Proceeds were also raised in support of SOSAD Ireland - which offers services for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self harming, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety.

So, Euro Weekly News readers, the gauntlet is well and truly thrown down. Who out there can beat 3,700 in the ‘Rock the Boat’ challenge while raising money for a good cause?

Winter break

Anna Akopyan

JET2 launched its ‘big-

Krakow, Prague, Venice and Vienna. Flights from the East Midlands include Krakov

sale from Leeds Bradford to Barcelona, Budapest, Paris, Rome, Krakow, and Prague.

Edinbur gh, the East Midlands, Birmingham, and Leeds Bradford, British travellers will have the chance to visit Europe’s most desirable destinations for pleasantly priced deals.

The winter destinations include Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, Krakow, Paris, Prague, Rome, Vienna and Venice.

Flights from Birmingham include Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, Rome,

and Prague. Flights from Edinburgh include Rome and Prague. Three routes will operate from Glasgow Airport to Rome, Krakow, and Prague. Six city break destinations will be on

From Newcastle, three cities including Rome, Krakow, and Prague are available and from Stansted, flights will operate to Athens and Rome. All of these flights will operate twice a week.

Travellers at the Manchester Airport will also have the option of unique flight deals to Porto, operating twice a week throughout November 2025 and mid-February 2026. Jet2CityBreaks also shared a one-of-a-kind, three-night package holiday to Porto, including a stay at a five-star hotel, Portobay Flores with breakfast, which is up for grabs for November 6, 2025, for just £629 (€741.82).

Thousands gathered to ‘Rock the Boat’.

Birth rate is falling.

Credit: Dave Caffrey (DJ), Facebook.

Photo: Flickr / Giuseppe Gullun

Flying over cities.

Credit: Andre Furtado, Pexels

Sunflower overtakes olive oil

PRICES of olive oil have meant that it has been toppled from the top spot as Spain’s favourite oil.

The news has left many in the World’s largest olive oil producers shocked, as rising prices force consumers to switch to cheaper options. In the first half of 2024, Spaniards bought 107 million litres of olive oil compared to 179 million litres of sunflower oil. According to the Ministry for Agriculture, only 34 per cent of oil sales used to be the sunflower varie-

ty and 64 per cent olive oil. But rocketing olive oil prices have forced many Spaniards to change their palates.

When olive oil prices per litre hit near the €10 mark last year, in part due to low yields caused by the drought, many family budgets couldn’t keep up with the increased cost, and so turned to cheaper sunflower oil, currently averaging around the €2.40 per litre, according to Olimerca, an industry publication.

Spain has famously been the World’s biggest supplier of olive oil after having overtaken Italy several years ago, but continued drought conditions are causing exports to reduce too, a potentially devastating impact on the olive industry in Spain.

Spaniards are in danger of losing their number one staple ingredient as prices are leading it to become a luxury most families struggle to put in the shopping basket.

England’s homelessness

AN estimated one million people in the EU and UK sleep rough every night and in countries like Germany and France, the number has doubled in the last 10 years. In fact, European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless (FEANTSA) says the number is likely to be far higher due to the fact that there is no universally decided definition of homelessness and so each country presents its own interpretation of the issue.

According to OECD data, England has the highest rate of homelessness in the continent of Europe, which includes people sleeping on the streets or housed in emergency accommodation, with 43 homeless people per 10,000 residents.

Within the EU, France has the highest number of homeless individuals with 30.7

Lower prices

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DID YOU KNOW?

street.

homeless for every 10,000 people, followed by Czechia (28.4), Germany (25.8), and Ireland (25.3). Spain fares somewhat better (5.4) and Nordic countries also reported comparatively lower rates of homelessness.

According to an OECD report, the total estimated number of homeless people is about 333,000 in France and 263,000 in Germany while the UK housing and homeless charity Shelter estimated that there are a shocking 309,000 homeless people in England alone.

Rocketing housing costs and economic changes go some way to exposing the situation in England. Also, inadequate benefits, including freezing of some people’s housing benefit compound the problem further, forcing local authorities to rely on temporary accommodation to alleviate the crisis.

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

Sunflower oil takes over as most popular oil in Spain.

Credit: Freepik

Homeless man on Tarragona

Credit: Anna LoFi - Shutterstock

Possible prison for not paying bill Self-checkout tipping sparks outrage

CULTURALLY, the Spanish bar or restaurant is far more than a conve nient eatery. It is a central cultural social hub and, unlike in many other global cultures, a place of trust between fellow citizens.

Take, for example, the bill. There is a reciprocal trust between waiting staff and customers that they will serve you food worth its price, and you will pay your bill before leaving. It’s a sacred trust, a socially bonding key to why we love Spain. So, why skip out on a bill?

In a recent news post from the National Police on TikTok they warned of the implications of doing the ‘simpa’ something that constitutes a crime of ‘fraud’ under Spanish law. Depending on the severity, ie the amount, punishment can range from heavy fines to eight years in prison, especially when the amount defrauded exceeds €400.

Letara Draghia

A RECENT incident at a Hungarian water park has ignited debate over tipping at self-checkout machines. After purchasing refreshments from a self-service kiosk, a man was surprised to be prompted to tip between 0 and 20 per cent. Frustrated, he shared his experience online, questioning why tipping was expected for a machine.

But, then comes the ‘simpá’, someone intent on sneaking out without paying their bill, the scourge of any chiringuito beach bar. While it may appear easy to do in the busy summer months, the National Police want to remind everyone of the penalties that await any ‘simpá’ who attempts it.

The worst in Spanish history happened in May this year when a total of 15 tables upped and ran off from a restaurant in San Mateo, Gran Canaria, without paying their bills. There had been a small fire in the extractor fan in the kitchen, and while some diners remained to pay up, a large group decided to take advantage of the restaurant and make their getaway.

The Reddit post quickly gained attention, with many expressing disbeliefs at the notion of tipping a machine that involves no human labour.

One Reddit user noted, “At least there’s a prominent 0 per cent option. Many places make it hard to avoid tipping.” Others shared similar experiences, including being pressured to tip at

Would you tip a self-service checkout?

a sporting event.

Some speculate the tipping prompts might be due to software designed for both self-service and staffed terminals, leading to confusion. Despite the humorous remark that “robots need a living wage too,” the overall sentiment

remains one of frustration. As tipping practices evolve, especially in regions where it’s not customary, consumers are advised to stay informed and make choices that reflect local customs as well as their own personal values.

Time to go out again

EVER noticed how beautifully different nationalities greet each other? Bonjour in French, hola in Spanish, ciao in Italian, kon’nichiwa in Japanese, namaste in Hindu - you get my point. The best us Brits, especially southerners, can come up with is a slight nod of the head and a mumbled ‘alright?’ And to make it worse we say it to the non-Brits that have just greeted us so nicely in their own language.

This is, of course, my observational humour which seems to be the thing these days. No more joke tellers. That’s all been killed by WhatsApp etc. Just stand on stage, talk about what’s going on in the world, swear a bit or, even worse these days, just have a pop at the audience and let them do the show for you. I’ve seen several recently that just pick on the first couple of rows for an hour and that’s it. Some of it is quite amusing but after hearing one guy call a few blokes’ wives a slag a few times, it kind of wears a bit thin for me - anyway each to their own.

Got a site come up on Insta, or maybe Fa-

cebook telling me at last there is a site where I can watch terrible fatal accidents. What’s going on for gawd’s sake? Who needs that? Why is it allowed and who decided it’s what I needed to brighten up my day?

So the government is going to treat misogyny as extremism? How’s that going to work when they can’t even define what a woman is?

The World is a sh1t show at the moment. I watched Sky News the other night and they were covering the terrible stabbings in Germany. What didn’t make sense to me was their priority was how the far right would react without once condemning the geezer that did it as an ISIS terrorist. Am I missing something or what?

I recently bought a new dishwasher and washing machine and was asked if I wanted one with Bluetooth connection? What on earth is the point of that? Why would anyone need an internet connection to wash yer undies? It’s bad enough that Siri and Alexa pipe up every now and again, I don’t need the washing machine piping up as well.

It’s nearly September and I will venture out again and get a parking space - WOO HOO!

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

Mike’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

Where did everyone go?

Credit: wirestock - Freepik

NGO calls out supermarket pricing abuse 240 stings

Adam Woodward

MASSIVE supermarket price hikes in a handful of days have spurred FACUA to launch a new app for comparing prices.

FACUA, Consumers in Action is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation dedicated to the defence of consumer rights who are calling out supermarkets for what they see as abusive price hikes, including a 70 per cent increase in oil prices in the last fortnight.

Oil prices hit an all-time high in 2021 in part due to the drou ght, in part due to the war in Ukraine. Con sumers accuse the big supermarket chains of

an abusive pricing policy since the government reduced VAT on a list of essential items, such as oil. The government has defended the supermarkets by saying that they are within the margins allowed by the National Commission of Com-

there are still shops with disproportionate prices.

For this reason, the consumer organisation has launched a website where shoppers can monitor price variations by day, fortnight and month. And it is a fascinating tool to try out. The website can be accessed at super.facua.org

Secretary General of FACUA, Rubén Sánchez said, “This is a tool that we offer to empower consumers. The goal is for us all to become market watchdogs and to know who, how much and when price increases to food are applied.”

Consumers can also check the price of milk which the consumer group also claim has experienced wild fluctuations in recent weeks.

Diets duel it out

ARE you an adherent of the Mediterranean diet? Well, here’s some food for thought: have you considered an alternative?

Recent studies indicate that the Atlantic diet of north-west Spain (rich in seafood, fruit, vegetables alongside meat, dairy, cereals AND potatoes) significantly reduces type 2 diabetes and heart-related conditions.

Now, whilst acknowledging its potential benefits, an American cardiologist questions certain aspects. His scepticism regarding specific recommended foods like brassicas (no better than ‘other combinations of vegetables’) and especially potatoes reminds us that not all components of a diet may contribute equally to overall health.

He also wonders whether this might all be a case of old olive oil in new bottles. “This Atlantic diet is basically a Mediterranean diet with a slightly different fashion style and dialect. To folks in the region, those little differences are a point of cultural pride.”

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

Far from sounding like a hazing ceremony on a pirate ship, the Atlantic diet nonetheless offers an intriguing example of how regional dietary patterns can inform discussions on nutrition and health.

But let a local have the last word: “We don’t rush things here. When we sit down to eat, we sit down to eat. We don’t muck about.”

Which reminds me. Last week in the UK three guys were stabbed at breakfast with a Weetabix. Police are urgently looking for a cereal killer...

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Harry Sinclair

A MAN miraculously survived after being stung 240 times by a swarm of wasps while feeding his chickens.

The 57-yearold returned from a bike ride on Sunday and went to feed his chickens when he was ‘swarmed at’ by wasps, he told Sky News.

Andrew Powe ll, a festival organiser who lives near Brecon, Powys, said his local hospital saved his life after he was stung 240 times by a swarm of wasps, confessing he was in “agony” after the attack.

gate, which is probably four seconds, I was covered,” he said, adding that he “ran up the steps into my bungalow, into the bathroom, put the shower on and the bathroom was full wasps.”

A swarm of wasps unexpectedly attacked an unfortunate cyclist.

Gina, Mr Powell’s wife, came to the rescue “throwing buckets of water on them, trying to get them off,” telling her husband his “back was just a carpet of wasps.”

Powell told the Daily Express “It was like a scene from a movie,” explaining he was “standing at the garden gate when I saw them heading towards me.

I said ‘Oh my God’ and ran.”

“By the time I got to my back

Andrew Powell said his local minor injuries unit “100 per cent” saved his life, along with his friend who answered his call to take him there; “If there’s no MIU (minor injuries unit), I wouldn’t be here.”

Shocking recent increases at the supermarket checkout.

Credit: PERO studio - Shutterstock

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Rescuing Tivoli World

WATER, peacock feed and cleaning materials make up the bulk of the donations that former workers who are still in charge of maintaining the park are receiving.

It’s coming up for four years of being closed for Tivoli World in Benalmadena, and four years since ex-employees have been holding out hope that the much loved theme park will one day reopen. A group of them remain defiant and determined to not let the site fall into rack and ruin, acting as unpaid security and maintenance staff.

Unprompted, local residents, inspired and uplifted by the devotion to Tivoli World, began delivering donations to the park gates. Paint, cleaning products, gloves and bottles of drinking water and even feed for some of the peacocks at the park.

Benalmadena Council members are now planning meetings for the beginning of September with the owners of Tivoli to hammer out a solution to a future reopening of the park.

Axarquia

Torre del Mar airshow

FLIGHT enthusiasts and thrill seekers will be looking forward to the Torre del Mar Airshow this September, being held from Friday 6 to Sunday 8.

Jet fighters and acrobatic planes, historic aircraft, police helicopters and the Eurofighter, the most advanced fighter jet in the World, all performing breathtaking aerial feats over the sea to amaze a beach audience.

This air festival is an aeronautical, sporting and family event that brings together more than 300,000 spectators every year to enjoy the best acrobatic pilots in the world.

The airshow can be seen from any point on Torre del Mar beach, but the organisers recommend the Biblioplaya area to best enjoy all the crosses and pirouettes performed by the pilots in the most advanced aerospace technology. Sunday will be the best day, following all the practice runs, although there will be plenty to see and do the previous two days as well.

Mallorca Asian wasp warning

THE Regional Ministry of Agriculture launched a campaign on Friday August 23 urging the public to be on the lookout for an invasive species of wasp that the Ministry body is trying to eradicate. The Asian wasp, which first arrived in Mallorca in 2015, is an insect which reproduces successfully at an astonishing rate, and could upset the balance of other native species of wasps across the island.

The Ministry highlights that so far this year a total of 10 colonies of Asian wasps have been identified across Mallorca, with nests located in Palma, Calvià, Sóller and Mancor de la Vall. A document has been published on the government website to help the general public successfully distinguish between the Asian wasp and other species.

Following a protocol whereby nests are seized and frozen in order for scientists to carry out tests on genetics to confirm the origin of the insects, the ultimate goal is to eradicate the species from Mallorca entirely and prevent it from spreading.

Costa Blanca South Balcony braveheart:

FELIPE DAVID SOUZA, a young Brazilian who has resided in Alicante since 2019, will be honoured for his bravery during the city’s Volunteer Day celebrations in November.

The council’s security department, led by Councillor Julio Calero, plans to formally recognise Souza’s courageous act of saving a child from a precarious situation.

On August 19, Souza became a local hero when he risked his life to save a child hanging from a balcony.

Souza, who works as a painter, was on the job renovating a house near Plaza de Galicia in Alicante when he heard a commotion.

A six-year-old boy was precariously dangling from a balcony. Without hesitation, Souza dashed to the scene.

He climbed onto the building’s ledge with only his hands for support, reached the frightened child and brought him back to safety inside his home.

Almeria Stranded ship

OFF the coast of the Cabo de Gata beach a stranded sailboat caught the curiosity of locals and tourists.

For the past week, Cabo de Gata beachgoers who looked out to the horizon could see a white mast, emerging diagonally from its hull sinking slowly. Salvamento Maritimo received an emergency call from a boat requesting assistance.

The sailboat was stranded on the coast of Cabo de Gata with six crew members on board.

The Salvamar Spica from the Almeria coordinating centre attended the scene, confirming the sailboat’s anchor was stuck in the nautical channel of Cabo de Gata.

The crew was transferred by the Maritime Rescue Team to the Port of Roquetas de Mar, while the boat, the Intrepido, was left stranded next to the watchtower.

Ten days later, a private company, began the recovery process, to remove the ship from its anchor and begin the refloating process, before being able to tow it to shore.

Costa Calida Breakfast bash

IN Roda, San Javier, the summer festivities have a tasty tradition: the ‘English Breakfast.’ This event, part of the local celebration honouring the patron saint, the Virgen de los Remedios, draws a crowd of over 500 people each year. Held in the scenic pinada of San Javier, where many English, Scottish, and Irish expats live, this breakfast has become a summer classic.

Starting at 10am, volunteers whip up a traditional English breakfast, featuring fried eggs, bacon, sausages, mushrooms, and baked beans, all for just €2. This event, known as ‘International Day,’ is a hit among both locals and visitors.

The mayor, Eulogio Sánchez, noted the event’s growing popularity, saying, “Roda has something special; people love coming here and having a good time.”

The festivities continued through the weekend with more activities, including international dinners, themed parties, and a mix of local celebrations.

A natural allure

CATNIP, a perennial herb from the mint family, is famous for its intriguing effects on cats.

Scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone. This replicates pheromones, which are chemicals that cause all kinds of ‘feel good’ reactions and can trigger a burst of playful energy or relaxation in felines.

When a cat encounters catnip, whether by sniffing, licking, or chewing it, the nepetalactone binds to receptors in their nose, stimulating sensory neurons linked to the brain.

This interaction can cause behaviours like rolling, purring, and leaping about with joy. Interestingly, not all cats are affected - about 30 per cent to 50 per cent

are immune to its allure, a trait believed to be hereditary.

The effects of catnip are short-lived, typically lasting around 10 minutes, after which cats lose

interest. Catnip is harmless and non-addictive and adds an extra dimension of entertainment and enrichment to your cat’s life, providing a delightful way to engage their natural instincts.

Quincy needs a dog-sitter

BICHON FRIEZE dogs are famously friendly and rather cuddly. Quincy and his siblings love company and playing at home. That’s why it is easier to find HouseSitMatch pet-sitters to suit their needs when their owners go away on holiday.

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:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Premium account (£69 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

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

Quincy loves company and will entertain the dog-sitter.

PLUMBING

POOL

EU reduces tariffs on Teslas

hicles manufactured in China, a move that could strengthen Tesla’s market position in Europe.

Previously, Tesla faced a 20.8 per cent tariff on these imports, but the rate has now been reduced to 9 per cent.

This contrasts sharply with the higher tariffs of 17 to 36.3 per cent imposed on other Chinese electric vehi-

which the EU targeted due to concerns over ‘unfair’ subsidies.

The European Commission’s decision reflects the specific subsidies Tesla receives in China, verified during a recent visit. Despite these subsidies, the methodology behind Tesla’s reduced tariff remains unclear, as noted by industry experts. The new tariff is still in addition to the standard 10 per cent

duty applied to all EV imports into the EU.

This tariff cut provides Tesla with a competitive edge, particularly over rivals like SAIC, which faces a 36.3 per cent tariff.

The initial higher tariffs had prompted Tesla to increase the price of its Model 3 in Europe, but the recent reduction may help maintain its competitive pricing.

Chinese automakers like BYD continue to face significant challenges but remain committed to the European market, which accounted for over a third of their exports last year.

Despite the higher tariffs, Chinese manufacturers are unlikely to withdraw, given their strong profit margins in Europe.

Car requirements

IN Spain there are specific documents and items you must keep in your vehicle at all times.

As in many countries, there are a set of required documents and items for legal obligation and practical necessity. The National Police recently provided a list of all that is needed in your car.

First is a driving licence, which must be valid and appropriate for the vehicle type.

Next is the Circulation Permission and technical sheet, which shows the vehicle is registered in your name.

The ITV certificate (MOT) and windscreen sticker are also mandatory in proving that your vehicle has passed the inspection.

You must also have proof of insurance, which covers at least third-party liability.

A European accident form should also be kept in your car to report any accidents.

Reflective jackets and warning triangles are important, in case of a breakdown or roadside accident.

A spare tyre and repair kit are also necessary, in case of a breakdown on the side of the road.

Tesla car.

Credit: Pixabay

MG3 Hybrid + competitive, endearing and huge fun

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

WHEN Chinese automotive maker SAIC took over what remained of the Rover Group there were a lot of very unhappy Rover and MG enthu siasts. It’s fair to say that MG today looks nothing like it did when SAIC took it over, and began to resurrect a car company from what remained of Rover. Much of the criticism was unfair because SAIC were never going to replicate the Rover and MG of old, it wouldn’t have been profitable for starters!

Among the reborn MG models that emerged at that time the little MG3 was much underrated, despite being rather old tech it had character, lots of equipment and was cheap.

The MG3 soldiered on longer than any of those initial models with only a minor facelift during that time. Now there is a very new and much more modern MG3 Hybrid + and it’s a delight.

Priced from €21,805/£18,495 it retains a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder power unit but works with a 100kw electric motor and 1.83kwh battery mated to a three-speed automatic gearbox.

Facts at a Glance

Model: MG3 Hybrid + Trophy

Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol with 100kw electric motor and 1.83kwh battery

Gears: 3-speed automatic

Price: €24,170/£20,495

Performance: 0 to 100kph/62mph 8 seconds/Max speed 170kph/106 mph

Economy: Combined 4.4l per 100km/64.2mpg

Emissions: 100 g/km Co2

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

It’s unusual in that the electric motor leads, rather than the more usual set-up of the petrol engine leading. This means the MG3 has exceptionally good performance with the benchmark 62mph passed in just eight seconds. On the road it’s huge fun and res -

ponds more like a pure electric than a hybrid.

The fun continues with superb ride comfort that offers enough resistance to make twisting cross country roads fun.

I suspect a lot of this is down to a UK-based team who tune the sus -

pension on UK MGs to our roads. Standard fare is excellent, on the lead-in SE version it includes navigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic air conditioning, rear parking camera and six-speaker DAB audio system.

The higher spec Trophy ups the specification to include heated front seats and steering wheel, keyless entry and start, rain sensor, auto lights and privacy glass.

The interior is a comfortable place to be and despite rather a lot of bargain basement plastics it still feels well bolted together.

The driver instrument screen is too busy for such a small screen and the steering wheel would benefit from reach as well as height adjustment.

Over its predecessor the new model has impressively reduced Co2 emissions from 147 g/km to just 100 g/km and similarly fuel consumption from 6.57l per 100km/43 mpg to 4.4l per 100km/64 mpg. It has always been an endearing car and now has become a very competitive and endearing car.

Sven-Goran Eriksson

SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON, ex-England boss, and coach at Lazio, Benfica, Manchester City, Leicester City, has died aged 76.

Eriksson, who saw the England team through three major tournaments, enjoyed a celebrated career in management, which also included spells in charge of Lazio, Benfica and Manchester City, passed away on Monday, August 26 after suffering pancreatic cancer. He was just recently the subject of a swan song documentary in which he reflected on his life, career and legacy.

Eriksson was the first non-British manager of the England national team when he was appointed in 2001, and during his five years in the position, Eriksson led the nation to three major tournaments.

During the filming of

the Amazon Prime documentary, Eriksson, already well aware of his medical condition, said “I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well. You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will

“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it. Bye.”