Costa Blanca North 21 - 27 November 2024 Issue 2055

Unsung HEROES

“Volunteers praised for their dedication”

THROUGH 20 days of terrible floods and unimaginable suffering for scores of families, Javea’s Civil Protection has consistently demonstrated bravery and commitment to the great cleanup and public safety initiatives.

Volunteers have tirelessly laboured to provide medical aid, remove mud from the most affected districts, and support the most vulnerable inhabitants through almost insufferable moments.

Locals have been nonstop expressing gratitude and admiration on social media for the efforts of the volunteers who have sacrificed their day jobs, their families, and their time

to help the area recover.

According to one local resident, Julio Braceli, the DANA had only just begun and that it was not over yet. He says, “It is a war zone; literally all of the garages are flooded, and the entire neighbourhood needs to start from zero.”

For thousands of people and hundreds of businesses, the efforts of Civil Protection Javea remain a beacon of hope amidst the sorrow, even as the dirt is cleared and the communities start to regain some semblance of normalcy again.

Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2055 • 21 - 27 Nov 2024

Civil Protection, Javea.

Respect and equality Diabetes prevention

NOVEMBER 25 is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. All across our community, local town councils have devised campaigns to raise awareness of this important topic under the simple label ‘25N’.

For example, in Villajoyosa they are proactively implementing initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to identify and assess violent behaviours within partner relationships. This activity is particularly focused on educating both adolescents and adults about the various forms of violence that can occur in partnerships.

Altea Town Council have chosen to focus on the need to abolish prostitution which the councillor for Equality and Social Welfare, considers to be a “scourge that inflicts physical, sexual, economic, and psychological violence,

along with the absolute deprivation of liberty.”

To this end, they have scheduled Abolitionist Conferences for November 22.

The morning session will be aimed at local schools engaging today’s youth in critical discussion regarding the implications of prostitution and trafficking. The afternoon will be a more open session for the general public focused around the theme of ‘Prostitution and trafficking of women and girls in the digital environment’.

For Denia Town Council,

their focus is on the importance of not being complicit in violence against women.

To emphasise this they have devised a campaign titled ‘Break the Pact’ which has been visually conceptualised by talented illustrator Eva Cortes.

Together this series of speakers, discussions, and activities form a comprehensive approach to eradicating gender violence, empowering residents to become advocates for change, and fostering a culture of respect and equality within the wider community.

IN recognition of World Diabetes Day, which takes place annually on November 14, healthcare professionals from the l’Alfas del Pi Health Centre set up an informative stand at the local municipal market. The aim of this initiative was to educate the public on effective strategies for preventing and managing diabetes, a condition affecting millions of people worldwide.

Currently, an alarming 537 million adults across the globe are living with diabetes. In Spain alone, it’s estimated that approximately 5.1 million individuals are grappling with this chronic illness. This alarming statistic represents a significant increase of 42 per cent since 2019, positioning Spain as the country with the second-highest diabetes rate in Europe. Fortunately, proactive measures can be taken to prevent or postpone the onset of type 2 diabetes. These include adhering to a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding the use of tobacco products.

At the information stand, health professionals provided valuable insights on these strategies and more. Marisa Cortes, the councillor for Health of Alfas del Pi Town Council, expressed her gratitude towards the healthcare team for organising this crucial preventive initiative in observance of World Diabetes Day.

She remarked, “This event serves as an excellent opportunity to raise public awareness regarding the causes, symptoms, complications, and best treatment practices associated with this serious condition, which continues to escalate globally.”

Alert: Pensioners

“Protect your finances against potential risks”

THE Spanish tax office, Hacienda, has issued a reminder to homeowners over 65 about the dos and don’ts of selling property, warning they could land in hot water with the taxman if they’re not careful. But it’s not all doom and gloom - some golden exemptions could save savvy pensioners from forking out a fortune.

When it comes to selling up, the Hacienda has laid down the law. Homeowners must square up taxes on the profits from their property sale. This includes:

Capital gains tax (included in IRPF): On any profit made.

Municipal tax (plusvalía): On the rise in the value of the property.

Pro-rated IBI: For the remainder of the year.

But here’s the silver lining: if you’re over 65 and se lling your primary residence, or suffering from severe dependency, you may be eligible to avoid the tax bullet altogether.

The Hacienda provides generous exemptions for pensioners over 65 who sell their primary residence, helping them avoid hefty capital gains taxes. Here’s how it works:

If you sell your home and receive payment as a lump sum or a lifetime annuity, any capital gains from the sale are exempt from taxation.

Roadside car checks

NEW on-the-spot roadside vehicle inspections aim to catch out drivers with faulty motors.

Brand new mobile units operated by the DGT (General Directorate of Traffic), the official government body legally overseeing motor vehicles, and accompanied by officers of the Guardia Civil, have been randomly stopping vehicles to carry out roadside evaluations of their roadworthiness.

Well within their legal right to, they have stopped over 6,000 vehicles for an on-the-spot check already in 2024. The stops are not previously announced and can catch many drivers unaware.

Any vehicle that circulates on roads can be subjected to an ITV technical inspection regardless of how long it has been since the driver last took their motor for an official check-up.

Officers from the ITV (technical inspection of vehicles) have been carrying out tests, sometimes just visually, sometimes with all the technical instruments they would normally use in an ITV centre.

These random inspections on public roads can check from the identification of vehicles to braking equipment, steering, visibility, lighting equipment, electrical system components, axles, wheels, tyres, suspension, chassis, or polluting emissions. That is, practically the same as in any mandatory ITV appointment.

The rules change if the property’s ownership is already split between two parties, even is the property is their primary home.

You can also sell the ownership rights (nuda propiedad) of your home while keeping the right to live there (usufruct) for life. In this case, the sale qualifies for the exemption because the ownership transfer happens as part of the sale process.

Spain’s healthcare system

SPAIN isn’t just a holiday paradise; for expats, it’s home to one of Europe’s top-rated public healthcare systems. Yet, navigating medical cover in a new country can feel like deciphering doctor’s handwriting. From public perks to private plans, here’s your full health briefing.

In Spain, health isn’t just a luxury - it’s a right. The National Healthcare System (‘Sistema Nacional de Salud’ (SNS)) serves residents, offering free or nearly free care through GPs, health centres, and hospitals. While 75 per cent of locals use the SNS, private insurance offers perks like private rooms, specialist appointments, and elective surgeries. Private cover can be essential for quicker access and is often a must for visa applications.

For non-EU arrivals, a job paying into Spanish social security or the Conve-

nio Especial scheme provides comprehensive public cover.

UK pensioners can access SNS healthcare using the S1 form. Registering with the local health centre in Spain will issue a health card essential for medical access.

Public healthcare covers GP visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. However, dental, optical,

and physiotherapies are mostly private. Prescription charges vary by income.

Private insurance is popular for extra speed and choice, costing between €50 and €200 per month.

Living in Spain is a dream for many, and with the SNS, private plans, or both, healthcare in Spain is reliable, letting you enjoy life under the sun.

As well, during these surprise checks, police usually also check cargo holds and certificate verifications. Serious irregularities with vehicles or paperwork can lead to serious fines or even licence suspension.

Transporting gas cylinders

UNLIKE the UK for instance where the main supply of gas is provided via underground connections, much of Spain has to turn to gas bottles when it gets cold, but there is a double catch if you want to collect and transport yourself.

In an idea world, the safest option is to have the canisters delivered to your door, by a registered supplier and this is a cheaper method than purchasing from a petrol station as the price is regulated.

Full gas canisters are very heavy and have the potential to turn into bombs if they are not handled properly so should be stored in a safe, well-ventilated area where there is little chance of

ignition but there are rules concerning how you may transport the cylinders to your home.

Spanish law allows you to transport up to two gas bottles in a car, but they must be carried in an upright, vertical position and the driver must ensure that the canisters are secured in the vehicle so that they cannot move during the journey.

The law also states that when you are carrying gas canisters, it is forbidden to park your vehicle in an underground car park for any length of time and it is also prohibited from carrying a gas cylinder on a two wheeled vehicle such as a motorbike.

Pensioners warned about property pitfalls by the Hacienda.

Credit: Shutterstock, lunopark.

Credit: Shutterstock, Redhatz69

A cultural exchange

THE Calpe 41 Club is known for its diverse range of activities, but the most outstanding event of November so far was an occasion that brought an international flair to the Club’s usual routine. Earlier this year, the Calpe Club received an enthusiastic inquiry from two 41 Clubs in the United Kingdom - one from Tamworth and the other from Doncaster. Both clubs were organising an adventurous hill walking holiday based in Benidorm.

Eager to foster camaraderie and cultural exchange, Chairman Hugh Stewart and Past Chairman Peter Moore took the initiative to arrange a warm welcome for their Yorkshire counterparts. The hosts planned an outing at The Comm, situated in Alfas del Pi, and they were fortunate to have enjoyed a sunny day. As the guests arrived, everyone gathered on the terrace for a refreshing coffee, where friendly conversations flowed effortlessly.

The day continued with a series of enjoyable activities, including games of mini golf and boules. Participants quickly became engaged in friendly competition before enjoying a delicious lunch together. The atmosphere was filled with animated discussions and good-natured banter, creating an environment where friendships were solidified. Looking ahead, the Calpe 41 Club’s next event will be a festive Christmas Party lunch scheduled for December 12 at the Hotel Gran Sol in Calpe. Those interested in learning more about the Calpe 41 Club can contact Hugh Stewart on +34 629 478 007 or via email at hughiestewie@gmail.com .

Costumed craziness

ON November 14 the lively streets of the English area of Benidorm came alive as over 30,000 participants, including a significant number of Spaniards and individuals from various nationalities, took part in the much-anticipated Fancy Dress Party. This colourful event was organised collaboratively by local hotels and entertainment venues, supported by the Abreca Cobreca association and the Benidorm Town Council.

Irene Carreño, the manager of Abreca Cobreca, expressed her delight at the vibrant atmosphere fostered by the inclusion of 14 elaborately decorated floats in the parade. Accompanying the floats was a dynamic group of batucada (type of Samba) performers, adding to the excitement and energy of the event.

Irene noted that participants embraced the spirit of the occasion with creativity, dressing up in costumes that showcased a spectrum of styles, but always maintaining a cheerful demeanour. She expressed, “In the realm of British tourism, there’s a palpable sense of good cheer;

no one gets angry here.”

In a heartwarming development, this year’s organisers wanted to draw in on the community spirit of the Benidorm Fancy Dress Party by initiating fundraising efforts aimed at supporting victims of the DANA in the central Valencian regions. Throughout the

event, all participating establishments, from Saturday November 9 to the following Friday November 15, set up ballot boxes to collect donations from those willing to contribute, underscoring the event’s commitment not only to celebration but also to social responsibility.

Pink Ladies make an appearance.

BENIDORM has officially bid farewell to the vibrant and festive celebrations of its ‘Festes Majors Patronals 2024’, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminated the night sky.

Pirotecnica Valenciana took centre stage with incredible illuminations that dazzled spectators.

Nearly 1,000 kilos of gunpowder were ignited, captivating thousands of residents and tourists who had gathered in the scenic areas around the port and Elche Park.

Prior to that, the Parade of Floats took place, with more than 30 peñas (a festive group representing social and regional interests) participating. It wound its way around several streets of Benidorm,

Fire, Light & Colour

putting on a fantastic display of creativity for all to see. As is customary, the parade also featured

Drone rescue

ON Saturday November 16, the Calpe Local Police successfully conducted a daring rescue operation to save a swimmer who had become trapped on a cliff. The incident began when a concerned citizen alerted the police about a middle-aged man struggling in the waters at Cala del Mallorquin.

A patrol car was dispatched to the scene and upon arrival, the officers observed the man dangerously positioned on the rocks of the cove’s cliff, unable to escape the treacherous conditions created by crashing waves. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the police officers promptly contacted both fire rescue and Maritime Rescue services to facilitate a more traditional rescue approach. However, while

a competition with monetary prizes for those judged to be the best.

This year, the presti-

awaiting their arrival, the Calpe Local Police decided to employ one of their recent technological advancements: a high-tech drone.

The drone was operated by the UMAC (Air Resources Unit of the Calpe Local Police), which is a specialised team consisting of four officers trained in drone operation for security purposes. With a state-of-the-art DJI Pack Mavic drone in the air, the team was able to fly the drone directly over the distressed swimmer. They reassured the swimmer through the drone’s built-in speaker and provided him with clear instructions on how to locate a safe exit route from his position on the cliff.

Thankfully the swimmer was able to carefully navigate through the rocky terrain and eventually find his way to safety.

gious first prize went to peña l’Espardenya who secured a cool €1,000 for their efforts. Second prize received €600, while the third spot was awarded €400.

No doubt, with Christmas just around the corner, these unexpected windfalls must have been very welcomed!

Unfortunately, despite the high level of craftsmanship displayed by participants, a special accolade, known as the ‘Manuel Aguera’ award for the best handmade float, was left unclaimed this year.

Festes Majors Patronals 2024.

Hidden talents

ON November 22, 23, and 24, Ciudad Patricia will host an art exhibition in the Central building. The idea has been in the works for quite some time, but renovations to the main building previously delayed it. Now, the time is finally right.

They’ve known for a while that many residents have hidden talents, and now it’s time to share them with you. No fewer than 18 residents will showcase their art, and most of it will be available for purchase.

You can expect a variety of art forms, including oil, acrylic, and watercolour paintings, ceramics, sculptures, crocheted baby clothes, embroidered tapestries, and handmade cards.

All of this can be seen during the opening on Friday, November 22, from 11.00am to 2.00pm. During the opening, all the artists will be present,

A variety of art forms will be on display.

and they will welcome you with a nice drink. In addition, you can visit the exhibition on Saturday, November 23, and Sunday, November 24, from 11.00am to 4.00pm. The exhibition will take place in the lounge of the main building (edificio central) at Calle Rumania 26, Benidorm. There is plenty of free parking available. During the exhibition, the bar will also be open for drinks and small snacks, and between 1.00pm and 3.00pm, the restaurant will offer a delicious menu del día.

Moraira’s generous heroes

MORAIRA Market Heroes: Big-Hearted Shoppers Rally with Lions to Aid DANA Flood Victims.

The Teulada- Moraira Lions team wish to say a big thank you to the shoppers who donated so generously to the Valencia Dana Flood appeal at the Moriara market on Friday, November 8.

The money collected, together with the € 10,000 already donated to the flood appeal by the Lions will go towards help and support for the devastated families and communities affected by the catastrophic DANA floods. Thank you to all.

Financial support

ON November 18, Luis Barcala, the mayor of Alicante, revealed a proposed allocation of €1.5 million to support the recovery efforts of those who suffered as a result of the recent DANA.

He highlighted that this financial contribution signifies a profound commitment to the community of Valencia, reinforcing solidarity as they work to restore essential infrastructures, public services, and the livelihoods of those impacted.

As the recovery continues, it has become increasingly clear that current priorities involve not only the physical restoration of roads and bridges to re-establish critical communication links but also significant efforts to rebuild homes and revive local economic activities that have been disrupted. Additionally, addressing the emotional and psychological needs of individuals who have experienced the loss

of their homes and a sense of security is paramount.

This financial support complements the proactive measures already taken by the Alicante City Council, including the organisation of a solidarity campaign that successfully collected and transported 260 tons of vital humanitarian supplies, such as food and healthcare products, directly to those in need in

Valencia. Furthermore, the city council has mobilised resources by deploying personnel, vehicles, and machinery to assist in recovery efforts.

They have also provided important emergency equipment, cleaning supplies, and materials essential for parks and gardens to aid in the cleanup and restoration process in the hardest-hit areas.

MOFTAG holds Christmas Fayre

ON Saturday, November 16, excitement filled the air as members of the MOFTAG community gathered at Pub Delfin in Calpe for their highly anticipated annual Christmas Fayre. Preparations for this festive event had been buzzing with activity, with members setting up stalls brimming with unique handcrafted items, delicious baked goods, and a variety of charming seasonal decorations.

As the countdown to the opening began, a cloud of uncertainty loomed: Would the weather cooperate? Thankfully, the sun shone brightly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as residents and visitors flocked to the Fayre, eager to show their support while having an enjoya-

ble day.

Guests participated in a selection of games and activities, including the raffle, which featured lots of prizes generously donated by local businesses. By the end of the day, MOFTAG was thrilled to announce that their efforts had raised an impressive €3,318, all of which will go directly to support various local charities in Calpe.

This success could not

have been achieved without the support of Pub Delfin, which graciously hosted the event or the generous contributions from local businesses and community members.

If you are interested in learning more about joining this dedicated community or inquiring about upcoming events, you can contact the President, Jenny Godfrey, on +34 639 139 518.

Alicante City Council comes to the aid of Valencia.

INTERNATIONAL CHIL -

DREN’S DAY is set to be celebrated in La Nucia on November 23, featuring a variety of activities themed around the exciting world of circuses with the title ‘Once upon a time there was a circus’.

This free event will take place between 10.00am and 2.00pm in the Muixara Pavilion car park, creating an opportune time for families to enjoy a few hours of fun and creativity together.

Circus World

hop, which will no doubt dazzle and mystify the young participants.

In addition, to remember those affected by the recent DANA, the children in attendance will make a large solidarity mural. This will then be sent to a school in one of the most affected towns as a heartfelt symbol of compassion and unity.

Designed to appeal to children between the ages of three to 12, the event promises an exciting lineup of activities that cater to various interests.

Young attendees can look forward to engaging craft workshops where they can unleash their imagi-

nations. There will also be a place for creating their very own clown costumes, juggling workshops, and balloon twisting, enabling them to step into the world of circus performers.

The event will also fea-

ture vibrant inflatables, perfect for letting off some energy while bouncing around in a safe environment.

Adding to the fun, the renowned magician Malastruc will lead a works-

Chocolate party

THE recent edition of ‘Xocolatissima’ brought together hundreds of enthusiastic participants at the Villajoyosa chocolate tastings. This year’s event included a heartfelt solidarity chocolate party aimed at gathering donations for the Red Cross and Caritas, two organisations actively providing support to the Valencian towns impacted by the recent DANA weather events.

The tastings took place at the Casa de la Barbera, with children filling the auditorium as they eagerly learned the art of chocolate tasting. Meanwhile, adults gathered in the Don Pedro room, where the experts

took them on a sensory journey into the world of chocolate. Participants were taught about the nuances of tasting chocolate, including how to identify various aromas, the subtleties of different ingredients, and the intensity of cocoa flavours in each creation. As part of the festivities, a special competition was held to crown the best Viler chocolate taster, with separate categories for children and adults. The excitement culminated in ‘The Night of Viler Chocolate Solidarity for Valencia’, a vibrant community celebration that drew in hundreds of local residents.

All activities will intentionally require participants to disconnect from electronic devices, encouraging them to engage with one another and the activities around them in a meaningful and interactive way.

Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed a variety of chocolate treats while contributing to the fundraiser, with all proceeds going to support the efforts of Caritas and the Red Cross in affected regions.

Circus themed Children’s Day will include inflatables. Credit: lanucia.es

Credit: villajoyosa.com

Best Viler chocolate taster.

Beach standards

Donna Williams

THE Instituto de Certificacion SL (ICDQ) has successfully concluded a comprehensive audit of the management, services, and facilities at the beaches of El Campello.

The findings affirm that the management practices employed for the inspected recreational and bathing zones meet all necessary standards. Furthermore, the report highlights that the municipality has established a robust emergency intervention and response plan. This plan, which was officially approved by the Municipal Plenary of the town council last July, addresses a variety of critical scenarios. These include flooding incidents, accidents, hazardous ocean currents, protocols for managing jellyfish, and a classification system for the beaches based on associated hazards.

SHA Healthy Fest

L’ALFÀS DEL PI to host third SHA Healthy Fest on November 22–23.

The SHA Healthy Fest returns to L’Alfàs del Pi for its third edition on Friday November 22 and Saturday November 23, at the Albir Beach Social Centre.

Organised by the internationally renowned SHA Wellness Clinic in partnership with the town hall, this event o ers a series of workshops and activities aimed at promoting health and well-being.

Additionally, the report indicates that all inspected beaches are well-maintained in relation to cleanliness and waste management, including a system for selective collection through strategically placed containers. Moreover, the presence of a Local Police brigade dedicated to beach oversight has been verified. It has also been confirmed that each beach and cove is equipped with professional lifeguard services, complete with the necessary facilities and vehicles to support these operations.

Throughout the audit process, it was confirmed that effective communication channels regarding the Quality Management and Environmental Management System are actively maintained. This communication is crucial for ensuring that external subcontracted services adhere to required standards, and it includes systematic control and evaluation measures through both inspections and specific requirements.

Admission is free, but spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged. Councillor for Tourism and Environment, Luis Morant, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, noting, “It is a luxury to be able to count on the support of SHA Wellness Clinic to develop these healthy seminars, as this Bataller family company, located in one of the most privileged corners of our town, enjoys international recognition

for fusing the best natural therapies, mainly from ancient oriental knowledge and the most advanced western techniques.”

SHA Wellness Clinic, situated in the heart of the Serra Gelada area, is a pioneer in genetics, anti-ageing, and preventive medicine. The festival will provide participants with access to the SHA Method, a holistic approach combining dietary re-education with natural therapies to enhance health and longevity.

Workshops will feature

expert-led sessions designed to teach practical tips for improving well-being. This is a rare opportunity to bene t from SHA’s expertise at no cost.

Dates: November 22–23

Admission: Free (pre-registration required via WhatsApp on 633 934 692)

Location: Centro Social de La Playa del Albir, Carrer Sant Miquel, 1, 03581, L’Albir, Alicante Don’t miss this chance to engage with world-class health professionals and learn valuable practices for a healthier lifestyle.

El Campello beaches successfully pass audit.

The event promotes health and well-being.

Photo

Norwegian Christmas Fair

THE Norwegian Church of l’Albir proudly hosted its annual Solidarity Christmas Fair between November 15 and 17. This popular event provided visitors with a wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit by sampling a selection of delicious sweets and traditional Scandinavian dishes that are enjoyed during the holiday season.

In addition to indulging in culinary treats, attendees browsed through a variety of handcrafted items and purchased unique Christmas products and decorations that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Norway.

The primary aim of this fair was to raise essential funds to support various social projects that help those in need. By attending the event, community members not only celebrated the beginning of the Christmas season, but also contributed to a noble cause that promoted solidarity within the municipality.

Throughout the year, the church organises several activities, including cultural events, sports, social gatherings, recreational workshops, and religious services, all designed to foster community spirit and enhance social connections. They also provide invaluable assistance to vulnerable individuals, whether tourists or permanent residents, through counselling, volunteer opportunities, and emergency support services.

Cancer, Research & Society

ON November 23, the Balearia Maritime Station in Denia will host a significant public event titled ‘Cancer, Research, and Society’. Amunt Contral El Cancer, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness about cancer and promoting research initiatives, has organised this conference.

It aims to bridge the gap between the complex world of cancer research and the general public, fostering a meaningful dialogue among researchers, healthcare professionals, patients, and young people interested in pursuing scientific careers.

The conference is scheduled to take place

in the L’An drona mul ti-space room from 8.45am to 2.00pm.

Attendees will have the opportunity to dive deep into the latest developments in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Expert speakers will share valuable insights on current research trends, innovative treatment strategies, and the range of support services available to cancer patients throughout their journey.

It is hoped that by the end of the session, attendees will feel better informed about the cutting edge research being conducted in the field of oncology, and

have a greater understanding of the most effective treatment strategies, thereby enhancing patient care and outcomes.

Finally, in involving the younger generation, there is a desire to inspire and encourage active learning about the crucial role that research plays in advancing medial treatments.

Full details of the schedule and what it will cover can be found by visiting www.denia. com.

The Norwegian Christmas Fair included handcrafted items.

Denia hosts Cancer, Research and Society Conference.

THE Casa de Cultura de Finestrat recently hosted a deeply moving film night that concentrated on themes of emotion, solidarity, and community support.

The highlight of the evening was the screening of the powerful documentary ‘Mientras Seas Tu’, which has garnered significant acclaim, winning both the prestigious Gaudi Award and the Goya Award for Best Documentary Film this year. This event, orchestrated by the Department of Culture of Finestrat in partnership with AFA Marina Baixa, aimed to raise crucial funds to support the Association, which is devoted to providing care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

Value of Memories Walk-run fundraiser

Nati Algado, the councillor for Culture, addressed the audience, stating: “It is a reality that touches many families closely, and films like this help us to better understand the value of memories and the power of love in our lives.” She went on to express her gratitude to AFA Marina Baixa, recognising their unwavering commitment to the care, support, and advocacy for those affected by this devastating illness.”

The evening also served as a heartwarming celebration of Jordi Llorca, a distinguished member of the documentary’s production team, who originates from Finestrat. The councillor took a moment to recognise

Llorca’s professional contributions, noting, “Jordi is not only a great professional who has contributed to

making this project a reality with his work within the production team, but he is also a credit to us all.”

ON November 17, El Campello played host to an inspiring event as more than 400 dedicated and supportive athletes participated in the walk-run organised in celebration of ‘World Diabetes Day’. The event marked its 11th edition and attracted participants who came together to raise awareness and funds for diabetes management, with all proceeds benefiting the Union of Diabetics of Alicante. Preparations for the event began early in the day, with a well-organised setup designed to cater to participants’ needs and ensure safety. Information tents offered resources and educational materials about diabetes, while medical teams were on standby to conduct glucose tests. The event saw enthusiastic involvement from university students from both the University of Alican-

te and Miguel Hernandez, as well as participation from various associations connected to diabetes care. El Campello’s Local Police ensured a secure environment, contributing to the lively and supportive atmosphere of the day.

This year’s walk-run was centered around the theme ‘Diabetes and Well-Being’, signifying the event’s dual purpose of promoting physical activity while promoting the importance of health education regarding diabetes. The initiative was spearheaded by the Alicante Diabetic Union (UDA) and received robust support from El Campello Town Council, the Diabetes Unit of the Alicante Department of Health (General Hospital), and other diabetes units throughout the province.

Credit:ayto-finestrat.es

A large audience attended the film night.

International Child Maintenance Claims. Can I claim in Spain? European Regulation and Hague Protocol. Minor children. Expert legal advice.

IN international divorce or separation, it is common for one parent to have custody of the children, but for no maintenance or child support to have been agreed upon in the ruling. In these cases, the question may arise as to whether it is possible to claim child maintenance in Spain, especially when the non-custodial parent moves to our country. In today’s article, we explore the legal options available to begin an international child maintenance claim in Spain.

What is child maintenance?

Can I claim maintenance in Spain?

Child maintenance refers to the obligation to provide the necessary resources to meet a person’s basic needs, such as food, housing, clothing, and medical

care. This obligation often arises in divorce or separation situations between parents and children. Depending on the country where the divorce is decreed, it is possible that child maintenance is not agreed upon in the divorce ruling. But this does not prevent a claim from being made later if circumstances change. If you have custody of the children and your ex-partner lives in Spain, in principle, you could claim child maintenance in our country.

Jurisdiction in international child maintenance claims.

According to Article 769.3 of the Spanish Civil Procedure Law (LEC), Spanish courts are competent to hear a child maintenance claim in favour of the minor children. For this, it is necessary that custody has been granted

to one of the parties, and the defendant resides in Spain.

Article 3 of European Regulation 4/2009 of 18 December 2008 also establishes that the courts of the place where the defendant or creditor habitually resides will be competent.

Which law applies to determine child maintenance?

Although your case may involve an international claim (either because you reside abroad or are of a nationality other than Spanish), Spanish law will apply to determine the amount and the method of payment for child maintenance. This is established in the aforementioned European regulation, which emphasises that the law of the forum (in this case Spain) will govern the application.

Similarly, although the Hague

Protocol generally establishes the residence of the child (Article 4.3) as the primary criterion, it also allows for the application of the law of the forum (in this case, Spanish law) when the courts of the defendant’s habitual residence are involved.

How can I prove custody in Spain if I divorced abroad?

If your child’s custody was granted by a foreign ruling from an EU member state, this ruling will be recognised in Spain without any additional procedures. However, for the ruling to be valid and enforceable in Spain, it must be accompanied by the certificate outlined in Article 36 of Regulation (EC) 2019/1111, which must be issued by the originating court.

If the ruling was issued by a country outside the EU, each

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) White & Baos.

Tel: +34 966 426 185 - info@white-baos.com - White & Baos - All Rights Reserved.

case must be studied individually to determine whether a bilateral agreement exists, whether an exequatur is required, etc.

Conclusions.

If you have custody of your children and the non-custodial parent moves to Spain, it is possible to initiate an international child maintenance claim through the Spanish courts. At White-Baos, we offer specialised legal advice to manage child maintenance claims. Do not hesitate to contact us for expert legal advice.

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys information relating to legal issues.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Transport subsidy

ON November 15, 190 students in La Nucia received the second half of the ‘Subsidy for University, Baccalaureate, and Vocational Training’. This programme is provided by La Nucia Town Council, which has ringfenced €95,000 for this initiative. This underscores their dedication to further education while supporting families within the community.

The timing of the second payment is not accidental; it is designed to coincide with the presentation of the students’ grades. Only those who have reached the required level are considered to have justi ed their eligibility for the subsidy.

For those who qualify, the nancial support provided varies based on the distance students must travel to their respective institutions. Speci cally, those studying at educational facilities within the Marina Baixa region receive a subsidy of €200. However, students in La Nucia who commute to universities or vocational centres within the broader province of Alicante are allocated €300. For students attending educational institutions located outsi-

de of Alicante, the maximum grant of €400 is disbursed.

Looking ahead to the next academic year, the town council will be publishing updated guidelines in December for the ‘Subsidy for University, Baccalaureate, and Vocational Training (Intermediate and Higher)’ programme for the 2024-2025 academic year. This will mark the opening of the application period for new and continuing students seeking nancial assistance to support their educational studies.

Costa Adeje’s triumph

ADEJE Tenerife Egatesa secured a 2-0 victory against Valencia CF in a heartfelt charity match held on Saturday, November 16, at the Adeje Municipal Football Ground. The event marked the 10th matchday of Liga F and carried a greater purpose: raising funds for victims of the devastating floods that struck the Valencian Community on October 30. The match was Va-

lencia CF’s first since the catastrophic floods, which caused immense damage and claimed the lives of at least 217 people. In solidarity, Costa Adeje Tenerife Egatesa organised activities to encourage donations, with proceeds from ticket sales and other initiatives going directly to support those affected.

Adeje Town Hall, a key sponsor of Costa Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, prai-

sed the team’s efforts, stating, “We acknowledge the achievements of women’s football and applaud the club’s solidarity initiative in using sport as a platform for community support.”

The Valencian floods have left many residents struggling to rebuild their lives, and this match provided not only financial aid but also a symbol of unity during challenging times.

Eligible students received a subsidy from La Nucia Town Council. Credit:lanucia.es

COSTA

Tenerife team.

Credit: Adeje Town Hall

Skilled worker visas

GERMANY plans to issue 10 per cent more professional visas this year to combat a critical labour shortage, with 1.34 million jobs currently unfilled. The country faces an annual shortfall of 400,000 workers due to an ageing population and shrinking workforce.

Inspired by Canada, Germany has introduced a points-based immigration system to simplify entry for skilled non-EU nationals. Criteria include language proficiency, professional experience, and age.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated, “We are working to attract the skilled workers and professionals that our economy has urgently needed for years.”

In 2024, Germany aims to issue 200,000 professional visas, alongside increases in other categories:

- Student visas: Up 20 per cent

- Apprenticeship visas: Doubled

- Foreign qualification recognition: Up nearly 50 per cent.

Healthcare and technology are among the industries most affected by workforce shortages, hea-

vily reliant on foreign labour. Over the past five years, 89 per cent of Germany’s 1.6 million new jobs have been filled by foreigners, preventing a decline in employment numbers.

While the new visa policies mark progress, Foreign Minister

Annalena Baerbock emphasised the need for further reforms. Immigration remains a contentious topic, with the far-right seeking to leverage public discontent ahead of elections, heightened by the collapse of Germany’s coalition government.

Lisbon illuminations

AS with the rest of Europe, Portugal is already turning its attention to Christmas and the all-important tradition of turning on the lights in the capital. Residents and visitors to Lisbon will not have long to wait, as the illu-

minations will be marked with the switching on of the Christmas tree on November 23, at 6.30pm.

Once the official tree lights at Terreiro do Paco have been switched on, those present can then look forward to a dazzling light and sound show. Not only that, but singer Aurea will be on hand to get everyone in the Christmas spirit with her renditions of popular songs from a variety of Christmas films.

They plan to have a total of 1,000 luminous structures which will be made up of 5,700 pieces. These will be spread across a total of 45 different locations.

As sustainability concerns the entire planet, it is good to know that Lisbon City Council is opting to use low-consumption lamps, with LED technology, which provide energy savings of up to 80 per cent compared to traditional incandescent lamps. In addition, they will also be using biodegradable and recyclable plastics in their decorative pieces.

For those lucky enough to be in Lisbon in the lead up to Christmas, the City Hall has advised that the light hours will be from 5.30pm to midnight Sunday to Thursday, and until 1.00am on Fridays and Saturdays.

The capital of Germany, Berlin.

Denmark’s Miss Universe

IN a historic moment for Denmark, 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe 2024 on November 16 in Mexico City, marking the nation’s first victory in the pageant’s 73-year history.

Theilvig, a professional dancer and entrepreneur, stood out among over 120 contestants from around the globe. Her jour ney to the crown was distin guished by her advocacy for animal protection and her work in the diamond indus try. She surpassed strong contenders, including the first runner-up from Ni geria and the second runner-up from Mexico.

Theilvig’s victory is a significant milestone for Denmark, which had not previous ly secured a Miss Uni verse title. Her win also highlights the pageant’s evolving inclusivity, as this year’s competition featured participants from countries

making their debut, such as Belarus, Eritrea, and Macau.

In her acceptance speech, Theilvig expressed gratitude and emphasised her commitment to using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, including animal rights and mental health awareness. Her dedication to these issues, combined with her poise and charisma, strongly resonated with the judges and the audience.

As Miss Universe 2024, Theilvig will embark on a year-long journey, engaging in various humanitarian initiatives and serving as a global ambassador for the Miss Universe Organisation. Her reign is anticipated to bring attention to the causes she champions and to further the pageant’s mission of empowering women worldwide.

Healthiest city in EU

APELDOORN in the Netherlands is arguably one of the healthiest cities in Europe according to a recent poll. The title was previously held by Maastricht for the last two years, but that city has fallen two places to third this year.

Once held by Amsterdam, the Netherlands often pops up at the top of the healthiest cities to live in Europe.

The Healthy City Index 2024 carried out every wo years by Arcadis, looks at a variety of characteristics in world cities including crime rates, traffic safety, and community health.

According to Arcadis, Apeldoorn has been steadily climbing in the ranking, from fifth place in 2020 to third in 2022, and now topping the charts. The city scored ‘stable’ in most elements, and this time scored extra points in the ‘healthy community’ category.

“Crime rate is low and social cohesion is high,” said Arcadis researcher Eke

Schins about Apeldoorn. He reckons, Apeldoorn is managing to largely avoid an international increase of anxiety and stress, an after-effect of the coronavirus pandemic. “What probably helps is its green character,” he says.According to Statista, the European statistics watchdog and compiler, the healthiest country to live in Europe is Switzerland, just a percentage point ahead of the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

Credit: miss universe/ig

Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark is Miss Universe 2024.

Christmas tree war

FOR several years. Pope Francis has been quite outspoken about the need for everyone to recognise the need to safeguard the environment but now the decision to chop down a 200-year-old tree to place in St Peter’s Square is causing controversy.

Since 1982, a large tree has been erected outside St Peter’s in Rome as the centrepiece of the Vatican Christmas decorations and until now it has been more an honour than a problem for a donation to be made from different parts of Italy.

This year however is different as local environmentalists in the Ledro Valley (northern Trentino province) are opposed to the chopping down of the 29 metre tall fir tree, nicknamed the ‘Green Giant’.

They argue that it is a pointless exercise and a ‘a useless sacrifice’ with a petition signed by more than 40,000 local resi-

dents being sent to Pope Francis asking him to stop the chop which is due to see the tree erected in St Peter’s Square on December 9. The local mayor is in favour of the tree being presented to the Vatican, arguing that it is due to be removed as part of the ongoing cultivation of the forest, therefore it’s better to make positive use of it than simply send it to

the sawmill.

In addition, it is nor mal practice for the lar ge tree to be repurposed into toys for children in need through Caritas, ensuring the tree’s legacy brings joy beyond the holiday season.

There is some talk of residents of Ledro bloc kading the local roads in order to stop the tree being delivered to the Va tican.

Cruise ship panic as wave hits

STRONG winds and an unexpected rogue wave caused a cruise liner transporting 4,200 passengers to list to one side, leaving one person seriously injured.

On November 2, the huge Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas cruise liner departed from Barcelona, entering as planned into the open seas. Five days later, during its transatlantic voyage, it was to find itself hit by a rogue wave. On Thursday November 7, chaos struck as the sudden impact of the wave caused the ship to lean or list significantly.

The sudden tilting injured guests and crew on board and caused damage to the cruise ship’s property: crockery and bottles were apparently thrown by the force and shattered. The impact was apparently caused by a sudden squall and hurricane-force winds that generated the tumul-

tous wave. Guests could be seen sliding across floors before being asked to return to their cabins for three hours while a full passenger count went underway.

Thanks to the quick-thinking of the ship’s Captain, the vessel’s balance was gradually restored. However, many were left stunned and shaken and have uploaded countless videos and photos on social media to show their momentary, yet unforgettable ordeal.

The liner, which was carrying 4,200 passengers from Barcelona to Florida had to make a return journey to Europe as one guest needed to be medically evacuated.

Many praised the quick response of Captain Frank and crew members. The cruise line is offering any guest affected by the incident a 50 per cent future cruise credit and a full refund of the travel costs.

Past Christmas scene at the Vatican.

Credit: Stefano Petroni flickr

The Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas was certainly not expected to list to one side.

A NEW survey across France has revealed that people spend not only a whopping three and a half hours online everyday, but that half of that time is dedicated to very large platforms - classified by the European Commission as platforms reaching at least 45 million monthly active users.

The report from the French Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication (ARCOM) collated data from 20,000 people aged 12 and over.

It discovered that mammoth platforms like Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Snapchat make up nearly half of people’s time spent using the internet and that particularly among younger audiences, social media platforms take centre stage.

That brings us to the topic of our younger audiences.

With so much time spent online, surely there are dangers for our youngest and dearest.

Across Europe, there has been recent debate regarding underage minors accessing unsuitable content including gambling and pornography, with some countries already taking measures to mitigate content access via age-verification checks, including Fran -

How much? France’s worrying Internet use

ce.

Those aged 12 to 17 years spend over half of their 116 monthly internet hours on Snapchat and Tiktok, prompting French President, Emmanuel Macron to consider a social media age restriction for teens under 15 – before this age, use would need to be monitored by a responsible adult.

The French Committee added recommendations for no screen time

under the age of three years.

Even more worrying is the fact that pornographic website Pornhub was visited heavily by minors – in fact this generation represented 16 per cent of its visitors.

Time will tell whether restrictions can be imposed across Europe to protect our young people but also raise awareness on the dangers of excessive screen time and internet overkill.

French people spend three and a half hours online of which half of the time is spent on large platforms.

NEWS Travel

Benidorm: The vibrant coastal gem of the Costa Blanca

with Hispavan Campers

KNOWN as the ‘Manhattan of the Costa Blanca’, Benidorm is a dynamic seaside city that combines towering skyscrapers, golden beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere. Once a small fishing village, it has transformed into one of Spain’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked relaxation, exciting nightlife, or outdoor adventures, Benidorm has it all. With Hispavan Campers, you can explore Benidorm and its stunning surroundings with the freedom to craft your perfect getaway.

Beaches and Relaxation

Benidorm’s iconic beaches, Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente, are among the finest in Spain. With soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, these beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports. Playa de Levante is lively and bustling, while Playa de Poniente offers a more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for families or those looking to unwind.

For a more secluded experience, head to Cala del Tío Ximo, a small cove situated between rugged cliffs. With Hispavan Campers, you can easily access these beautiful spots and spend your days soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine.

A City of Adventures

Benidorm offers more than just beaches. Its vibrant city centre is packed with shops, restaurants, and bars, catering to all tastes. For a touch of history, visit Be-

nidorm Old Town, with its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming Balcony of the Mediterranean, offering panoramic views of the sea.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Sierra Helada Natural Park, a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The park’s trails lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden coves, perfect for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Explore Benidorm with Hispavan Campers

Travelling with Hispavan Campers lets you experience Benidorm and its surroundings with unmatched flexibility and convenience. Their camper vans are equipped with cosy sleeping areas, kitchen facilities, and plenty of storage, making them the perfect choice for exploring the Costa Blanca.

SUMMARY

Benidorm’s blend of stunning beaches, vibrant city life, and nearby natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination. With Hispavan Campers, you can enjoy the best of Benidorm and the Costa Blanca with complete freedom and comfort, turning your trip into an unforgettable adventure.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

THE U3A Vall del Pop will host its inaugural Christmas Fayre at the rastro site in Jalon on Sunday, December 1.

This event, previously organised by Animal Rescue Charity, will be a festive day for the entire community with a variety of stalls selling Christmas crafts, homemade produce, and bric-a-brac, attendees can find unique gifts and treats.

The fayre will feature live music, delicious refreshments, and a barbecue, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Children will also have the chance to meet Santa!

Unfortunately, their car boot sale scheduled for October 27 had to be cancelled due to rain, but it has been rescheduled and will now be part of the fayre, giving attendees even more to enjoy.

The U3A Vall del Pop boasts around 470 members dedicated to supporting local charities through its Goodwill fundraising team, which tirelessly raises funds for va-

rious causes.

Thanks to the generosity of their members throughout the year, they have sent a large donation of goods to the people of Valencia affected by the recent floods via Project4All, providing much-needed supplies of food, water, milk, baby items, toiletries, cleaning products. They will continue to support this appeal and say they are devastated by this tragedy, and their hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones and to those bravely assisting.

Join them from 10am to 2pm on December 1 for a wonderful day in Jalon!

IF you are in the mood for some oriental cuisine and you live in or near Benitachell, head to Sabores Restaurante Asiatico. Here, you can enjoy authentic Asian dishes with a twist. They have several meal options, including set menus for two, three, or four people, a Menu del Dia, and a varied menu from which you can select a

Taste of Asia

range of dishes.

With the weather turning a little cold, why not try one of their delicious oriental soups? These include the traditional favourites of wan-tan, chicken, sweetcorn and crabmeat, tomato soup, and hot and sour for those who like their food a little spicy!

The Menu del Dia is available between 12.00pm and 6.00pm and then again between 6.00pm and 12.00am.

The cost is just €12.50 per person and includes a starter option, 10 different main meal choices that can be accompanied by rice, noodles, or chips, and a dessert.

What’s more, this weekend is the perfect time to discover this delightful restaurant and make a real night of it. From 8.00pm onwards on Saturday November 23, the restaurant will come alive as the very talented and popular Irish Des will be performing until 10.30pm.

While the Menu del Dia will not be offered for this night of entertainment, all the other great menu choices, including the specially created set menus, will be available.

This evening is anticipated to be very popular, so booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. You can do so by visiting www.saboresasiatico.com or calling +34 966 495

/ +34 602 615

Donna Williams

Facebook, U3A Vall del Pop

Violence Against Women

THE European Union of Women Marina Alta (EUWMA) is proud to collaborate with three local councils within the Marina Alta region to host a series of impactful activities aimed at raising awareness about the pervasive issue of violence against women in our communities.

As a part of their comprehensive programme titled ‘How to Respond to Gender Violence’, the EUWMA is pleased to announce that on Friday November 29, Elena from Alkaia, representing the Police Gender Violence Unit of Javea, will deliver an enlightening presentation. This session will be followed by an interactive questionand-answer segment, allowing attendees

to engage deeply with the topic at hand and seek clarity on issues related to gender violence.

Furthermore, they will host a roundtable discussion entitled ‘Domestic ViolenceYou Never Know Who It Is’, where individuals will share personal accounts and experiences. This segment aims to shed light on the often-hidden realities of domestic violence and emphasise the importance of awareness and support.

The EUWMA extends an invitation to anyone who would like to join them at the Javea Golf Club from 10.00am. Coffee and cake will be provided, creating a welcoming atmosphere for discussion and connection.

Pre-Christmas Calendar

IN the spirit of the holiday season, several local charities have partnered with The Entertainers to organise a series of special events leading up to Christmas.

These gatherings are a heartfelt way to express gratitude to everyone who has supported these charities throughout the year. Their contributions have been essential, allowing these organisations to continue their meaningful work within our community.

The Entertainers’ pre-Christmas calendar is filling up with exciting dates for these ‘Thank You’ events, each designed to bring joy and cheer to our local area while supporting important causes.

Here’s a closer look at the scheduled events:

December 7 - at the Gandia Men’s Hostel in support of Jalon Valley Help, December 16 - in Pego in support of APROP, the local animal charity, December 18 - in Orba

in support of Jalon Valley Help, December 20 - outside the Animo centre in Alcalali in support of Jalon Valley Help.

Everyone is encouraged to mark these dates in their calendars and join The En-

tertainers for what is sure to be a series of enjoyable events.

These gatherings not only celebrate the essence of Christmas but also recognise the incredible efforts of local charities dedicated to supporting others.

Donna Williams

The Interview

J David Simons - Author of The Interview

Donna Willams

AVID readers of the Euro Weekly News

may have seen the profile of the highly accomplished Scottish author David Simons, who has made Javea his home. Well, the time has come for him to unveil his brand new novel, The Interview. This much-anticipated book launch will be hosted by the Javea Book Circle, of which David is an enthusiastic member.

The event will take place at the Javea Players Studio Theatre, conveniently located near Mercadona by the Old Town, on Wednesday November 27. Parking is available in the streets in and around Mercadona and at the underground car park at El Clot.

Attendees can expect an engaging evening in which David will share readings from his new book and participate in an insightful conversation with renowned writer and broadcaster Alison Craig. Eager to connect with fellow book lovers, David will also be on hand to participate in a Q&A session.

Of course, there will be an opportunity to purchase a signed copy of the book at the discounted price of €10. For those who cannot make the event, an electronic version of The Interview will also be available

to purchase from Amazon and other online outlets.

Doors will open at 7.00pm and the event itself commences at 7.30pm, providing ample time for a little mingling and social interaction beforehand. The cost is just €1 for members (€2 for non-members) and a cash bar will be available.

& CHIP RESTAURANT & TAKE AWAY, IN MORAIRA

Check

Check

Fishy Fishy is a very popular traditional Fish and Chip restaurant and takeaway in the heart of Moraira, with TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence for 9 years from 2014 to 2023!

Serving top quality fish and chips at the best value, plus a range of home-made sauces, fish cakes, delicious burgers, roast chicken and pies etc plus a great value kids menu.

A White Christmas

JOIN the Marina Alta Costa Blanca Floral Club for a delightful afternoon with NAFAS National Demonstrator Robin White. On Thursday, November 28, White will present ‘A White Christmas’ at The Salon De Actos, La Senieta in Moraira. This special floral demonstration promises to bring the magic of Christmas to life.

florist or a novice, there will be something for everyone. At the conclusion of the event, all of the stunning floral arrangements created during the demonstration will be raffled off, giving several lucky attendees a chance to take home a beautiful piece of art.

Robin White, a talented floral designer and proud member of Kent Floral Art, has been celebrated for his exceptional skills. In 2019, he won the prestigious Designer of the Year award with his breathtaking work under the theme ‘Timeless Beauty’. Attendees can expect Robin to provide valuable insights, tips, and inspiration for creating their own festive floral arrangements. Whether you’re an experienced

Doors will open at 2.15pm, and the demonstration will begin at 3.00pm. The entrance fee is €10, which helps support the Club’s ongoing activities. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a complimentary glass of cava and a delicious mince pie, setting the perfect tone for the afternoon festivities.

For further information about the event, visit their website www.marinaaltafloral club.com, follow them on Facebook, or contact Pat on +34 622 921 812 or Christine on +34 602 246 546.

Credit: Robin Whitearina Alta

Credit: David Simons

Friends, Romans, Countrymen

Donna Willams

FOR those interested in art and history, The Arts Society Marina Alta (TAMSA) invites you to immerse yourself in captivating stories while enjoying a vibrant social atmosphere. Attendance is free for members, and guests are warmly welcomed to contribute via a donation, which can be made at www.artsocma.org

Attendees can look forward to a visual feast of remarkable sculptures, intricate mosaics, stunning wall paintings, and elegant silver and jewellery pieces that collectively narrate the fascinating journey of one of the world’s most powerful cities.

In this engaging and informative presentation, Dr Paul Roberts, a distinguished member of the Department of Antiquities at the renowned Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology at Oxford University, will showcase a variety of exquisite artworks that highlight Rome’s rich and colourful history.

This presentation, ‘Rome, Art and Emperors: The Golden Age of Rome’, will take place on two separate occasions on December 4. The first will be held at the Espai La Senieta in Moraira, with the lecture starting at 11.00am. The second will take place at the Casa de Cultura in Javea, and this will be an evening presentation commencing at 7.30pm. In both cases, the doors will open 45 minutes beforehand.

For further details, you can visit their website at www.artsocma.org. Also, they have a regular informative newsletter which you can sign up for by emailing ma rinaalta@theartssociety.org.

Lions quiz night

CALPE AND BENISSA LIONS CLUB are holding a quiz night and raffle to raise much-needed funds for the Lions International Relief Fund in support of Valencia. The evening will take place on Friday November 29 at the Calpe Tennis Club, commencing at 7.00pm.

Each team will be made up of four people, and tickets cost €15 per person. They can be purchased from the Calpe Benissa Lions Club Charity Shop on Calle Pintor Sorrola. In addition to entry to the quiz, the ticket also includes a light supper of chicken with rice or vegetables or spaghetti Bolognese, plus dessert and a glass of wine. Participants will need to confirm their menu choice when making their ticket pur-

chase.

Already, the Calpe Benissa Lions have purchased €500 worth of personal hygiene and baby products, donated €1,000 to Caritas in Valencia, and a further €1,000 to the Valencian Lions Club. Like the other Clubs, they are now looking to raise a further minimum of €500 to add to the overall funds held in America. Upon reaching their target, America has agreed to double it before donating the final amount to Valencia. If you cannot visit the Charity Shop but would like to reserve tickets for the quiz, you can do so by calling +34 711 075 065 Alternatively, you can call President Carole Saunders on +34 639 637 520 if you wish to make a donation.

Credit: Carole Saunders

Credit:

The Arts Society Marina Alta

Javea Xmas fayre

THE Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir is excited to announce that on Sunday November 24, at 11.45am, they will be hosting a repeat performance of their delightful concert at the Javea Christmas Fayre, located in the charming Salones Carrasco. This event will showcase a wide variety of beautiful and beloved songs, including As Long As I Have Music, Memory, When You Believe, and the iconic Hey Jude. In addition to the live choir, guests will be able to meander around more than 75 stalls selling a wide variety of wares,

including food products and items that will make excellent Christmas gifts. There will be a €1 entry charge, with all proceeds donated to The Friends of the Children of Emaus.

The Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir would also like to extend an invitation to attend their traditional Christmas Carol Concert, which will take place on December 11 at 8.30pm in the serene Benitachell Church. This event will be free to enter, with a collection dedicated to supporting their chosen charity for 2024: Friends of the Children of EMAUS.

If the idea of joining this friendly male voice choir appeals to you, then Mike Evans will be happy to answer any questions. He can be contacted on +34 645 081 539 and is looking forward to celebrating the joy of music and community.

MARIA TORRES BERNAL, a self-taught artist with a deep passion for painting that blossomed in her childhood, has embraced the opportunity to realise her lifelong dream. Through maturity and dedication, she has honed her skills and filled her creative space with vibrant oil paintings, showcasing

numerous series that centre around themes of colour, nature, and expressive portraits. Currently a student at the Escola d’Art de Finestrat, under the guidance of the talented Maria del Carmen Llinares, Maria has unveiled her latest exhibition entitled ‘The Color of Life’ in the Museu de Finestrat, located within the Parc de la Font de Carre. The exhibition will be available for public viewing until November 30, pro-

viding a wonderful opportunity for art enthusiasts and the community to celebrate her work.

For those planning to visit, the Museu de Finestrat has specific opening hours to accommodate guests wishing to experience Maria’s captivating artwork. The museum will be open on Wednesdays from 4.00pm to 6.00pm, and on Thursdays and Fridays from 9.00am to 2.00pm, followed by an afternoon session from 4.00pm to 8.00pm. On weekends, the museum welcomes visitors from 10.00am to 2.00pm. It is important to note that the museum will be closed on the last weekend of the month.

Credit: ayto-finestrat.es

Credit: Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir

Time of giving

THE U3A Marina Baixa will hold its General Meeting on Monday, November 25. This will be the group’s final meeting of the year, and it will start at 11.00am at the Casa de Cultura in Alfas del Pi.

Those interested in becoming members and taking advantage of the diverse range of activities planned for next year are invited to attend. The annual membership fee is just €10, and it can be paid at the General Meeting in readiness for 2025.

As Christmas is a time of giving, a raffle will be held during the meeting, with all proceeds donated to local charities. They

have lined up some very exciting prizes including hampers and delicious Christmas cakes to name a few. Additionally, there will be an exhibition of crafts showcasing a variety of unique items for sale, making unique Christmas presents.

Finally, as in past years, members will generously donate gifts for the children of Alfas, which they will bring to the meeting. As a potential new member, they invite you to participate in this tradition and put a smile on a child’s face at Christmas. All you need to do is purchase a gift, wrap it, and label it, indicating whether it is suitable for a girl or boy and the approximate age range.

Social cycling race

THE Department of Sports, in collaboration with the Pere Joan Caragol Cycling Club, has announced that registrations are now open for the highly anticipated third edition of the Pere Joan Caragol Memorial, a Social Category Cycling Race scheduled for December 15.

This year’s event is hoped to be particularly exciting, as it is scheduled for an earlier date than previous editions, which saw approximately 150 cyclists from various autonomous communities

participating.

This cycling race is set to be a vibrant social occasion welcoming participants aged 18 and older. The event includes various categories, each offering prizes.

The race will follow a route similar to last year’s, commencing and concluding on Alcoy Street, directly in front of Palau Altea. Cyclists will complete a circuit encompassing La Nucia, Polop, Altea la Vella, and back to Altea, repeating this loop three times to

total an impressive distance of 83.4 kilometres.

The expectations for this year are high, with organisers hopeful for a maximum registration cap of around 200 cyclists, which is the limit permitted for road cycling events.

This event pays tribute to a remarkable figure in Altea’s cycling community. From the 1980s until his passing in January 2012, Pere Joan Caragol was instrumental in training young athletes and organising numerous races.

Donna Williams

Credit:U3A Marina Baixa

ITALIAN police recently exposed a significant European art forgery network, responsible for producing and selling counterfeit works attributed to celebrated artists, including Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso.

The operation, which led to the arrest of 38 individuals across Italy, Spain, France, and Belgium, resulted in the confiscation of over 2,100 forgeries, collectively valued at around €200 million. Investigators found six workshops engaged in the forgeries - two in Tuscany, one in Venice, and others across Europe.

The investigation began in 2023 after 200 counterfeit artworks, including a

Banksy forgery ring

Modigliani drawing, were seized from a Pisa businessman’s collection. Authorities soon linked these items to an organised network distributing fakes through auction houses, even staging Banksy-themed exhibitions in Tuscany and Venice to gain credibility.

Pisa’s Chief Prosecutor Teresa Angela Camelio underscored the bust’s importance, describing it as crucial to preserving Banksy’s legacy. Experts from the Banksy archive assisted in identifying counterfeit pieces and verifying the seized items.

This operation highlights the rising risk of art forgery in a high-demand market for works by prominent artists like Banksy, whose public pieces are frequent targets. Authorities hope the operation will deter similar criminal activities across Europe and strengthen protections for both artists and collectors.

Unstoppable Spain

BY the end of 2024, no other advanced country will have grown as much as Spain thanks to tourism, inward investment, and immigration. Yet, the threat of US protectionism and economic security are still bridges to be crossed.

After a strong performance in 2023, with growth at 2.7 per cent, Spain will be the fastest-growing advanced economy in the world in 2024, with growth at 2.9 per cent, according to the IMF.

The Spanish economy suffered more than most during the pandemic, losing 11 per cent off its GDP, even more than Italy, which lost 9 per cent. But Spain usually suffers more during crises, making the rebound more pronounced and vigorous.

Tourism is booming more than ever too. Before the pandemic, Spain

had already record numbers of tourists, overtaking the US as the second most visited country in the world. This year, Spain will have topped 85 million visitors, overtaking France for the top spot.

However, Spain is more than just holidays. The export sector of the second biggest car manufacturer in Europe has increased the exports sector of GDP from 25

per cent in 2007 to 38 per cent in 2024. They are also excelling in engineering, design, finance, tech, and culture. Migration has not been a crisis like in other EU countries either. An enormous influx from the Americas has contributed positively to the workforce and GDP growth, with now approximately 18 per cent of the population having been born outside of Spain.

The Plaza Castilla business hub, Madrid.

A MAN has been arrested in the Netherlands over the theft of four Andy Warhol paintings depicting Queen Elizabeth II and three other queens.

The break-in at an art gallery in the MPV Gallery in Oisterwijk, Noord-Brabant, on Friday, November 1, shocked local residents. Police searched houses in four locations in the Netherlands and across the border in Belgium in connection with the theft and eventually tracked down a sus-

Queens heist

pect in Berckel-Enschot, a village 2 km away from Oisterwijk, on Tuesday, November 5, according to Dutch police.

The suspect has been put into solitary confinement and can only talk with his lawyer out of fear that he may be part of a larger international gang of art thieves.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Market

EDINBURGH has been named Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market, according to a social media study by Solopress. The survey, which analysed over 60 markets across the UK and Europe, considered metrics like TikTok posts and Instagram hashtags to rank festive hotspots.

With 2,738 TikTok posts and 55,304 Instagram hashtags, Edinburgh emerged as the favourite. Its magical setting against the iconic Edinburgh Castle in Princes Street Gardens captivated both visitors and social media users.

This year’s market, open from November 15, features festive staples like the Traditional Christmas Market, the Big Wheel, and an ice rink. Attractions include Santa Stories, the Christmas Tree Maze with 450 glittering trees, and hands-on

workshops for wreath-making and festive decor. Food stalls, live entertainment, and the chance to meet Santa complete the enchanting experience.

Edinburgh’s social media presence has played a key role in its top ranking, with picturesque posts showcasing twinkling lights and festive cheer.

The study revealed the UK dominates the rankings, with Winter Wonderland in London and Manchester markets following Edinburgh. Other top spots include Bath, Birmingham, and York. The list raises the question: is it the markets’ charm or Brits’ social media enthusiasm driving the rankings?

The thieves used explosives in an authentic Ocean’s 11-style heist to break into the gallery and take four screenprinted portraits of queens, including the then Dutch queen Beatrix and the British queen Elizabeth II. Explosive materials were found in one of the houses raided by police

in Hertogenbosch.

Two of the prints were just thrown away and abandoned in the street because, it is believed, the thieves were unable to fit them in their little getaway car. Gallery owner Mark Peet Visser said they had been ‘damaged beyond repair.’

The exhibition featured Warhol screenprint portraits of four queens, which also included Danish queen Margrethe II and Swaziland queen Ntombi Twala.

Santa Claus at Edinburgh Christmas Market.

Credit:

Instagram @edinburghschristmas

DENMARK

Make a note

EDUCATION minister Mattias Tesfaye wants a return to written exams instead of computer use for secondary school pupils to safeguard against cheating and obtain a clear indication of their academic level. “I’m not afraid of machines, but I am afraid of bad people,” Tesfaye told the Jyllands-Posten newspaper.

Speak up

DENMARK was ranked seventh out of 116 countries in the latest English Proficiency Index after occupying fourth place in 2023. Netherlands headed the 2024 Index, followed by Norway and Singapore but although it had slipped three places, Denmark remained in the “very high” English proficiency category.

PORTUGAL

Colour coded

ON November 12, the General Health Directorate (DGS) announced that its children’s booklets would all be yellow, instead of pink for girls and blue for boys. The following day, the Ministry of Health obliged the DGS to backtrack, imposing a return to the former format without offering any explanation.

Shoot out

A PORTUGUESE businessman linked to the construction industry who was kidnapped in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, on October 29 was released on November 14 in Motola, a township on the outskirts of the city. Police sources revealed that at least four of his kidnappers were shot during the rescue operation.

ITALY

Dearer pills

ITALIANS spent €7.1 billion on prescription drugs in 2023, the Italian Medicines Agency (Aifa) revealed, owing to higher medicine prices and the tendency to prescribe dearer drugs. Total pharmaceutical spending grew 6 per cent to €36.2 billion, of which the National Healthcare Service covered 68.7 per cent.

Poets’ corner

ROME’S Protestant Cemetery, where poet John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley are buried, was closed on safety grounds after a huge pine tree there fell to the ground. A crowdfunding initiative hopes to raise enough cash to remove the tree, repair graves that were damaged by the tree and reopen the cemetery.

EURO PRESS

FRANCE

Who did it?

AFTER five years of investigations, the Paris authorities cannot pinpoint the cause of the fire that devasted Notre Dame cathedral in April 2019. “But the closer we get to where the fire started, and as analyses come back, the more weight is lent to the theory of an accident,” Public Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said.

IRELAND FINLAND

Mauve peril

THICK blankets of mauve stinger jellyfish named Pelagia Noctiluca covered the entire south Irish coast on and around November 12. The sightings followed confirmation that many thousands of the mauve stingers had been spotted in the Lough Hyne marine reserve, where they posed a threat to many other species.

Bogus doctors

A MEDICAL Council enquiry into a person “not a medical practitioner” who had been treating patients and was reported to the gardai in 2023, uncovered more un-registered medics practising in Ireland. Further council investigations led to 32 reviews which assisted police in six separate criminal cases.

Arctic aims

FINLAND, Canada and the US signed the Icebreaker Collaborative Effort Pact in Washington on November 13, agreeing to develop, construct and maintain polar icebreakers. Collaboration is now considered vital as Russia and China increasingly covet the Arctic for new resources and shipping lanes.

Your fault

TWENTY-FIVE per cent of males under 35, and 21 per cent of all men, told a recent survey that they believed women deserved the violence they often met owing to the way they looked, dressed and behaved. “Far too many men are alarmingly tolerant of violence to women,” the Coalition of Finnish Women said.

BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

Mangrove plan

FLEMISH dredging and infrastructure company Jan De Nul is constructing a mangrove island in Ecuador (South America) although the project could be repeated elsewhere. These forests, which man-made activities are destroying, help to store carbon, protect coastal communities from erosion and support wildlife.

Deadly virus

RESPONDING to Rwanda’s request to the European Union for assistance in fighting the deadly Marburg virus, Belgium’s government is sending personal protective material and laboratory equipment. Fifteen people have died since Rwanda confirmed an outbreak of the virus, which is related to Ebola, in September.

Killer wolves

WOLVES carried out 491 attacks on sheep and livestock between January and October, compared with 399 throughout 2023, according to figures from the BIJ12 government agency. The true number could be higher, as farmers do not report all attacks and figures only include attacks known to involve wolves.

Paint job

AFTER five years of research, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has begun the second phase of restoring Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. Eight conservators have now begun to remove the varnish from the painting, isolated in a see-through glass chamber where museum visitors can watch the experts at work.

SWEDEN

Splitting up

THE government announced plans to modify the six-month waiting period required for a divorce as part of a package aimed at helping women escape from violent, abusive marriages. It will study how best to scrap the cooling-off period initially introduced to prevent hasty divorces and save more marriages.

Pay rise

SALARIES for Sweden’s MPs will rise by 3,000 krona (€256.60) to a monthly 78,500 krona (€6,789) in the New Year, the parliament’s Salary committee announced. The 4 per cent increase was in line with the recent collective bargaining agreements between the unions and employers, the committee pointed out.

GERMANY

Poll peril

WITH a general election in February, Interior minister Nancy Faeser commented on social media that Germany needed more protection against cybersecurity threats. “We must protect our democracy in the digital world,” she said, “and should be particularly prepared against manipulation and disinformation.”

Done deal

LUFTHANSA finally reached agreement with Rome on acquiring a stake in Italy’s ITA Airways. The deal was delayed after Lufthansa requested a €10 million discount on the €325 million purchase price, although Italy’s Finance minister later revealed that there had been “no change” in the terms of the original deal.

NORWAY

Getting warmer

ON November 13, the temperature in Lyngen-Ura (Troms) in northern Norway rose to an all-time record high of 18.5 degrees. “Warm air from the UK and Mediterranean can come from the Atlantic and around the Azores and form a track straight up to us,” state meteorologist Maiken Vessel explained.

Green steel

TIBNOR, a subsidiary of steel producer SSAB, will supply the Norwegian shipyard Salthammer Batbyggeri with 300 tons of steel. Made entirely from recycled material at a plant that uses only fossil-free electricity and biogas, the steel will be used to build two 30-metre electric supply vessels for the fishing industry.

Photo credit: Flickr/Melinda Young Stuart

NOTRE DAME: Repairs to the cathedral have taken five years.311419

2025: The optimum year to buy in Spain

2025 is the perfect time to invest in Spain’s real estate market. Experts confirm that trends are promising and that it will be an ideal period for property investors to buy and make solid potential returns. Without a doubt, Spain is up-and-coming as one of Europe’s key hot spots for potential buyers seeking a permanent move, to

purchase a second home or for profitable rental opportunities.

Spain continues to be a popular choice for international property investors due to the myriad of benefits on offer. From the Mediterranean coastlines to buzzing, cosmopolitan cities like Madrid and Barcelona, there is no shortage of prospects

for savvy buyers from across the continent and further afield. The Costa del Sol, Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands are currently top of the charts for investment where there is a constant flow of tourists all-year-round to guarantee a solid rental income for buyers interested in short term letting.

In 2025, predictions for investment centre around stability, growth and favourable returns, yielding significant capital gains over the next five to 10 years. Where demand for property is high and the Spanish economy stabilising, why miss out on this wide open window of opportunity?

Spain’s property prices 2024-2025: Understanding the trend

PROPERTY prices in Spain are on the rise and are expected to continue increasing into 2025, driven by inflation and a growing demand for housing amidst a tightening supply. Yes, experts would say that housing prices in Spain are fluctuating rapidly, making it challenging to understand the market dynamics amid rising inflation and economic uncertainties. In this unpredictable environment, many are left wondering whether real estate prices will stabilise, rise, or fall in the coming year.

Clearly there are doubts and concerns as interest rates have increased and the prices on the housing market are fluctuating. Whether you are considering investing in a new property or considering the implications for the future of your own property, it is crucial to have an idea of what property experts are forecasting for 2024 -2025.

Economic factors as well as those concerning Spanish demographics mean that the Spanish real estate market is growing exponentially. BBVA Research group have stated that in 2024, Spain’s GDP grew by 2.5 per cent due to reduced interest rates and economic activity in the Eurozone. This has consequently increased housing demand. The current GDP is expected to increase by a further 2.1 per cent by 2025 and experts say that the post-pandemic recovery period and boom in consumerism

BUYING property in Spain can be an exciting step toward living the Mediterranean dream, but it’s essential to understand the full range of costs involved. Many first-time buyers, especially expats, may overlook certain unexpected costs, which can add up quickly and impact your overall budget.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs you may face and tips to help you manage them.

Banker’s draft fees

One surprising expense for many is the cost of raising a banker’s draft - a payment method banks use to secure property transactions by setting aside funds for the purchase. This service often incurs a fee of around 0.5 per cent, which could add thousands to your total cost. An easy way to bypass this fee is by using Currencies Direct’s PropertyPay service. It allows you to send money directly to the seller without additional charges.

Transfer fees

Expats may also face unexpected

has been tantamount to these improvements.

A significant effect of these economic fluctuations are increased house prices, particularly in important cities as well as coastal areas - notably Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol. Malaga, for example, is currently in the top 10 places for most expensive property. In Costa Blanca, prices are said to have risen by 4.3 per cent in 2024 and in the Costa del Sol, the cost of buying a house has risen by 8.3 per cent in 2024, making it the area of the country with one of the fastest growth in cost. These trends are expected to continue into 2025 due to heightened demand for housing and to the fact that new construction projects are few and far between. According to property specialists, this is due to limited land being considered for housing development projects and a reduction in skilled labour to carry out construction. Whilst demand increases and supply weakens, prices will continue to grow, especially in areas where there is a population boom or change in demographics. Advice for investors is to investigate areas with high demand and with few properties on the mar-

ket so that results will be more profitable. It is also crucial to be aware of environmental factors and how this can impact on saleability of properties in areas at risk of natural disaster including flooding or forest fires.

Avoiding hidden costs when buying a property in Spain

banking fees when moving funds between countries. Banks in the UK and Spain typically charge for international transfers, with Spanish banks often adding extra fees for processing large transactions.

Currencies Direct doesn’t charge transfers fees and also provide access to a digital wallet that lets you manage funds without opening a Spanish bank account. Saving you money and simplifying the process of paying for your new home.

Notary fees and additional charges

In Spain, notaries are required to validate property transactions. However, many buyers are unaware of extra fees for document preparation, deed copies, and registrations, which can amount to 0.1 per cent - 0.5 per cent of the property’s value. Notaries may also add fees for translation services or complex legal issues.

To reduce costs, request a detailed fee breakdown from your notary and consider sourcing your own lawyer or translator if needed.

Valuation fees

If you’re financing your purchase with a mortgage, the bank will require a valuation to verify the property’s worth. These appraisals, which typically cost between €300 and €800, are generally the buyer’s responsibility. To help mitigate this cost, consider exploring banks that offer preferential rates on valuations as part of their mortgage services.

Exchange rates and currency fluctuations

Exchange rates can significantly affect the cost of your Spanish property. Even a small fluctuation in rates could cost thousands on a large transfer.

Currencies Direct offers competitive rates with no transfer fees, so you know exactly what to expect. Our services include options like forward contracts and rate alerts, which help you secure the best deal for your transfer.

Simplify your Spanish property purchase with Currencies Direct

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Navigating the Spanish property market doesn’t have to be costly or complex. By partnering with Currencies Direct, you can reduce unnecessary fees and make the most of your currency transfers. Our PropertyPay service offers a convenient, cost-free alternative to banker’s drafts, while our competitive rates help maximise your purchasing power.

Ready to save on your Spanish property purchase? Open a free account or get expert guidance by contacting Currencies Direct at pro pertypay@currenciesdirect.com or calling +34 910 786 109.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

We Have Everything You Need To Dress Your Home ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

THE Yorkshire Linen Company in Javea and Altea opened their doors over 16 years ago. Whether it’s a complete transformation of your home, your rental(s) or just some finishing touches needed, there is a huge range of fabrics and textiles in a wide variety of colours and patterns to choose from. Bed linen, mattress and pillow protectors, bath and beach towels, cushions and pillows are just some of the products that we always have in stock.

Bamboo Linen and Towels

Our bamboo Belledrom range of fitted sheets, flat sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases are soft, silky and hypoallergenic. Bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable fibre that grows very quickly and often requires no pesticides. Naturally breathable by regulating your body temperature, bamboo linen will keep you cool in summer and warm in the winter.

Sofa Beds and Mattresses

Apart from quality mattresses and bases we also sell sofa beds which are ideal for guests and rentals therefore optimising your living space. These include an Italian opening system with five years

warranty, recycled and stain-resistant fabric and two multipurpose soft, pillowy cushions for both sitting and sleeping.

Mattress Protectors

A mattress protector is a worthwhile investment for keeping your mattresses clean and in good condition. We can highly recommend our waterproof and breathable protectors. The same goes for pillow protectors, protecting pillows from stains.

We also stock mattress toppers which is a great way to transform an older bed or break in a new mattress that may be a bit too firm for now. They can also have a cooling effect depending on which brand you purchase.

Curtain Power

All curtains are very useful for all sorts of reasons and we have a huge selection of UK curtains to choose from. We also have an in-house seamstress service available to make sure your curtains hang perfectly. Black out curtains have proven to be excellent on energy saving and keeping your

house cool during the warm months.

From Outdoors to Indoors

For bedrooms, kitchens, livingrooms, bathrooms, studies and terraces our prices will please all home loving bargain hunters as well as those looking for a more luxurious finish. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff in both our shops are will always assist you in every way they can.

Our Winter | Autumn Collections are arriving weekly.

Come and get inspired!

Centro Comercial Montgó Cap de la Nao Plá 68, Jávea T 966 462 275 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00 | Saturday 10.00 – 18.00

Partida Planet 177 | Altea T 965 841 399 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00 | Saturday 10.00 – 14.00 yorkshirelinencostablanca.com

Quiet Luxury

THE ‘Quiet Luxury’ aesthetic is redefining home interiors, merging simplicity with sophistication to create serene, timeless spaces. This trend emphasises quality, craftsmanship, and subtle elegance over bold statements or transient fads, making it a favourite for those seeking understated refinement in their homes.

Key elements of quiet luxury include the use of calming neutrals such as sable, ecru, and soft whites, complemented by natural materials like oak, walnut, and unlacquered brass. These hues and textures exude warmth and balance, perfect for creating inviting yet polished interiors. Custom furniture and built-ins, such as bookshelves and seating areas, further highlight the importance of thoughtful, intentional design.

Texture plays a vital role in this aesthetic, with fabrics like bouclé, velvet, and high-quality linens en-

hancing visual and tactile appeal. These elements contribute to a cosy yet luxurious ambiance, ideal for intimate living spaces. The inclusion of bespoke details, antiques, and artisanal accents lends a sense of individuality and heritage, key components of the quiet luxury ethos.

Unlike flashy or trend-driven styles, quiet luxury thrives on timeless appeal, making it a sustainable and enduring choice for home decor. Its focus on elegance and comfort creates spaces that feel both personal and universally inviting, proving that true luxury doesn’t shout - it whispers.

For those looking to adopt this trend, investing in quality over quantity and embracing natural, lasting materials is the first step to achieving a quietly luxurious home.

Simple steps to buying

LOOKING to buy property in Spain? The process can feel daunting, especially given Spain’s complex paperwork. To help, we’ve put together a simple, step-by-step guide to make your home-buying journey a little simpler.

The first step is to calculate your budget and then add 10 per cent to 13 per cent for the additional purchase costs including fees and taxes. If this money isn’t readily available, then consider a financing option. Spanish banks usually provide mortgages, lending from 60 per cent of the total cost. For all financial or legal proceedings, you will need an NIE or TIE (tax ID number).

When you have found your dream property, you will need between €3,000 to €6,000, payable on a credit card or by bank transfer to hold the property and re-

move it from the market. Then, contract a solicitor (notario/notaria in Spanish) who will check the property owner’s documentation. This auditing will check the local land register to rule out any overlying debts, or mortgages/loans taken out for the property.

A contract with the solicitor will outline payment terms. After paying a holding deposit, the rest of the 10 per cent deposit is due within a month. The final payment is due at the notary’s office on signing day, following a final audit to confirm no new loans or mortgages. All parties will sign the title deeds, and remaining costs - such as an 8 per cent transfer tax, land registry, and solicitor fees - must be paid within a month.

Experienced Estate Agents at your service

COASTLINE PROPERTIES is an established, trusted independent estate agent with over 20 years’ experience, based in Denia, covering the northern Costa Blanca.

Founder Philip Westerby says: “With our extensive knowledge of the region, combined with our property portfolio (which includes a wide range of villas, townhouses, bungalows and apartments) and our personalised service, we are confident that we will be able to find your dream property.”

We pride ourselves on our high-quality service and professional advice, which is reflected in the comprehensive recommendations of our many satisfied clients. Our expertise will help you at every step of the buying process, and we also offer a complete service for owners looking to sell their property.

The following services are included

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free of charge when buying a property with us:

• Location identification

• Property search, viewing and showing

• Negotiation of terms, price and contract

• Accompaniment and translation at the notary

• Help with money transfers

• Recommendations to qualified Spanish tax advisors and lawyers

• Help with opening a Spanish bank account

• Assistance with bank mortgages

If you need advice or a free valuation, please contact Philip Westerby. Through our website:www.coastlinepropertiesspain.com WhatsApp: +34 606 798 213 | info@coastlineproperties.es

Silver Fox Removals:

Reliable moving services from the Costa Blanca

RELOCATING to a new home or office can be one of life’s most stressful experiences. Whether it’s a local move, a national transition, or a significant international relocation, the logistics and planning can feel overwhelming. That’s where Silver Fox Removals, based in the picturesque Costa Blanca, steps in to make your moving experience seamless and hassle-free.

With a reputation built on reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, Silver Fox Removals offers a wide range of services tailored to meet every client’s needs. Their expertise spans local moves within the Costa Blanca, national relocations across Spain, and international removals to destinations across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re moving your family, business, or cherished possessions, the team ensures everything arrives safely and on time.

Spain’s most colourful villages

SPAIN is a land bursting with colour, flavour, and lively energy. Across its diverse landscapes, you’ll find charming stone cottages and chimney-topped houses in the north, the picturesque whitewashed villages of Andalucia, and vibrant, multi-coloured homes lining the streets throughout the country. Wherever you go, Spain offers a feast for the senses.

Amongst all of the most enchanted and beautiful villages of Spain, there are unique secrets to be found. Yet as autumn is upon us and winter draws ever closer, perhaps the colourful villages could be more appealing on darker nights or cloudier days.

Villajoyosa, Alicante

Near Alicante, lovers of colour and vibrancy will appreciate the houses to be found situated in the picturesque village of Villajoyosa. It is in fact known for its iconic seafront with its frill of brightly coloured buildings. The original idea behind this came before technology, when the houses needed to be visible from out at sea; they have stood the test of time, maintaining the same tradition decades on.

The village prides itself on its rustic walls, marine walk, its beach and even boasts hanging houses, a remarkable housing phenomena also found in other Spanish areas like Cuenca. For all chocolate connoisseurs: visit the Chocolate Valor Museum, one of the most prominent and popular chocolate brands in Spain.

One of the hallmarks of Silver Fox Removals is their commitment to personalised service. Understanding that every move is unique, they offer tailored packages to suit varying requirements, including packing services, secure storage solutions, and specialist care for fragile or valuable items. Their fleet of modern, well-equipped vehicles and experienced staff ensure that your belongings are handled with the utmost care.

International moves are often fraught with additional challenges, such as customs regulations and language barriers. Silver Fox Removals alleviates these headaches by managing all the necessary paperwork and logistics, providing clients with peace of mind.

Located in the heart of the Costa Blanca, the company has become a trusted partner for expa-

triates, locals, and businesses alike. With a focus on efficiency, affordability, and a personal touch, Silver Fox Removals is setting the standard for moving services in the region.

When it’s time to move, whether down the street or across the globe, Silver Fox Removals ensures your journey begins on the right foot.

Please visit our website or call / email. www.silverfoxremovals.com

Calle Gremis 33 Teulada 03725 Alicante. 966 495 097 636 609 555 andrew@silverfoxremovals.com

Cudillero, Asturias

Let’s start with the small municipality of Cudillero, declared both a historical and artistic landmark. Its cheerful-coloured houses are complemented by a lighthouse, several viewpoints out to sea and a sign with letters that demarcates the town’s pride and elegance. Asturias boasts stunning coastlines with crystalclear waters, rich rustic traditions at every turn, and mouthwatering local dishes that capture the heart of its culture.

Enchanted Forest, Parauta, Malaga

Located in the Valle del Genal, not far from Ronda in the heights of Malaga, is a small village offering an unusual slant on coloured villages. Located within the Sierra de

las Nieves Natural Park national park, it is a site for nature lovers, chestnut lovers and well… lovers - with its own kissing bench! What makes Parauta unique, however, is not actually the village. Its glistening whitewashed houses are complemented by a colourful enchanted forest bringing the village alive for curious national and international tourists. Close to the blue village or ‘Smurf village’ of Juzcar, the magical, multi-coloured Enchanted Forest is a route of around 3km where you can find wooden, carved sculptures of fairies, tiny houses, dwarfs and other creatures. Perfect for the family and for cheering up a cloudy autumn day.

These are just four of the vibrant villages lighting up Spain’s peninsula. Exploring them - or others like them - promises an experience rich in charm, history, and tradition, all wrapped in a blanket of colour.

Photos: Shutterstock

Let’s get cosy

A fireplace offers several benefits that go beyond just providing warmth

ONE of the most notable advantages is its ability to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere in a room. The soft flicker of flames and the crackling sound of burning wood can make a space feel more intimate and relaxing, enhancing the overall ambiance of a home. This can be especially comforting during colder months when people tend to spend more time indoors.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, a fireplace can be an efficient source of heat. It can help reduce energy costs

by supplementing or even replacing central heating, especially in smaller spaces. The warmth generated by a fire can be distributed naturally throughout a room, creating a comfortable environment without relying on electric or gas-powered systems.

A fireplace also offers a degree of independence during power outages. In times when electricity is unavailable, a fireplace can provide not only warmth but also a reliable source of light, helping to maintain

some normalcy in difficult circumstances.

Furthermore, many people find the act of maintaining a fireplace - whether it’s starting a fire or gathering around it with family and friends - to be a deeply satisfying experience. It promotes connection, relaxation, and mindfulness, offering a break from the digital world. In addition to its functional benefits, a fireplace can become a focal point in a home, adding value and charm to a living space.

Retire in Spain

Advantage

WELCOME to the tranquil embrace of retirement in Spain, where the Mediterranean charm meets a life of leisure. Find out some practicalities of making Spain your retirement sanctuary.

Seeking a secure neighbourhood that fosters a sense of community and is close to family is crucial. Living in a vibrant area throughout the year ensures a fulfilling lifestyle, avoiding the desolation of seasonal deadness. Assessing weather patterns, especially during winter months, is vital for comfort. Convenient access to shops within a 10-minute walk and nearby green spaces enhances relaxation.

Evaluate the proximity and quality of public transportation, as well as access to beaches within a 20-minute journey. Prioritise living near excellent healthcare facilities to support ageing gracefully. Consider the city’s cost of living and tax rates to align with financial goals.

Availability of recreational and social activities, along with nearby restaurants, enrich daily life. If golfing is a passion, ensure courses are within a 20-minute drive. Assess tax implications, especially if residing in Spain for over 180 days annually.

Exploring rental options initially allows flexibility before committing to a purchase.

Entering retirement in Spain offers a chance to fully enjoy life’s pleasures. Take the time to unwind, explore new interests, and embrace the joys of this next chapter

Structural Surveys

Covering the entire Costa Blanca North

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Market update winter 2024by Mark Paddon Building Surveyor

2024 has been a busy year for all those involved in property sales. Most estate agents have increased their advertising to vendors as their portfolios of properties have reduced in size. This is a good sign that the Costa Blanca is extremely popular with buyers, and prices have increased accordingly. Despite the high demand, there are still surprisingly some great value property deals to be had, and many properties that are resales actually remain below cost price (when considering what the build and plot would cost at today’s prices). Even newbuilds can offer great value when you compare what you might get in other parts of the world for your money.

During this year the Dutch have made up a majority percentage of

buyers, but the Brits as always still love to buy in Spain and a significant number of buyers from the USA are now discovering the Costa Blanca and the lifestyle opportunities it presents. The French, Belgians, Scandinavians and Germans also retain a keen interest in Spain’s low cost of living and sunny climate. It appears that demand will hence continue into 2025.

If you are investing your money in Spanish property it is wise to use a lawyer for all legal checks and have a structural survey as part of the purchase process.

653 733 066

962 807 247

mrmpaddon@hotmail.com

www.surveyorscostablanca.com

If you are buying property in Spain or have problems with a property you already own, a professional structural survey can help identify and record defects whilst suggesting e ective remedial solutions and cost implications.

Mark Paddon BS Hons. MCIOB. CAAT. is a British Building Surveyor and Spanish registered Arquitecto Tecnico, insured via Lloyd's of London. He has been working on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida for over 20 years carrying out buyers structural surveys and providing general property purchase defects advice, including expert witness reports for court actions and insurance claims.

(Thermal camera inspection is also included).

Whether its an old town house, apartment or luxury villa every property purchase represents a considerable investment and deserves a close inspection for defects such as damp, termites, subsidence etc. Specialist structural assessment of problem retaining walls and swimming pools is also undertaken.

Video survey options are now available (fast feedback).

FREE buyers guide available via website. Initial telephone and email advice is FREE.

ustainableSHomes

AS the world faces increasing environmental challenges, sustainable homes are gaining popularity as a solution for reducing our carbon footprint and promoting energy efficiency. Sustainable homes, also known as eco-homes, are designed with materials and technologies that minimise environmental impact, offering an alternative to conventional, resource-intensive construction.

One key feature of sustainable homes is their use of energy-efficient designs. These homes are typically built to reduce the need for heating and cooling by using passive solar design, which maximises natural light and airflow. Well-insulated walls, windows, and roofs ensure that energy consumption remains low throughout the

year. Many sustainable homes also incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, further decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.

Another important aspect is the use of eco-friendly materials. Sustainable homes often feature recycled, locally sourced, or renewable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and non-toxic paints, which not only reduce waste but also contribute to healthier indoor environments. The aim is to limit the home’s overall ecological impact from construction to daily living.

Water conservation is also a priority in sustainable homes. Features like rainwater harvesting

systems, low-flow fixtures, and greywater recycling help reduce water consumption, a critical consideration in areas facing water scarcity.

Beyond environmental benefits, sustainable homes offer long-term financial savings. Reduced energy and water costs, combined with the durability of eco-friendly materials, make these homes an investment in both the planet’s future and personal savings.

As technology advances and environmental awareness grows, the demand for sustainable homes continues to rise, offering a promising path toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for generations to come.

Images: Shutterstock

Buying or selling

ONE of the peculiarities of the housing market at the moment is the difference between the high percentage of people who wish to buy a home and the small number of Spaniards who are selling.

Within the overall real estate activity in the first six months of 2024, 78 per cent of enquiries are from buyers or aspiring buyers but, on the other hand, there are only 15 per cent of sellers making contact with agents. In addition, another 6 per cent are participating in both markets (selling and buying at the same time).

This is one of the conclusions of the report ‘Radiography of the housing market in the first half of 2024’ prepared by Fotocasa

Research, which aims to analyse the current situation of the real estate market in Spain.

“The abrupt change in monetary policy with the rise in interest rates has been a turning point for the real estate market.

“Buyers are approaching the market but the supply does not meet their needs. In this context of mismatch, prices are rising in a situation that com -

plicates accessibility to housing,” commented María Matos, Director of Studies and spokesperson for Fotocasa.

The report concludes that the real estate market is in a change of cycle and a process of adaptation after the intense activity generated by the pandemic, at the same time as it is digesting the interest rate rises driven by the European Central Bank.

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Boeier’s big swim

A KEMP’S RIDLEY sea turtle, an endangered species, has been released back into its natural habitat in the Gulf of Mexico, as reported by the Houston Zoo in the USA.

The turtle, named Boeier after the shing boat that rescued it, was found roughly a year ago o the coast of the Netherlands, 5,000 miles (8,047 kilometres) away from its usual waters.

Boeier was discovered tangled in a shing net

by a commercial vessel. Experts believe ocean currents likely carried the turtle far from its home.

After the US National Fish and Wildlife Service facilitated its return, the turtle was transferred to the Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands, where it received medical care and rehabilitation before being own to Houston in the US at the end of October.

Following additional health checks and an ac-

climation period, Boeier was released from Stewart Beach in Galveston in November.

Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, native to the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coastal waters, are the smallest sea turtles, measuring 2732 inches (68-81 cm) and weighing between 75-100 pounds (34-45 kg).

The species has been listed as endangered since 1970, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The 5-minute city

NORDHAVN, a district in Copenhagen, is rede ning urban living with its innovative ‘ ve-minute city’ concept.

This modern neighbourhood, built on a former industrial harbour, ensures that everything residents need - schools, shops, healthcare, green spaces, and public transport - is accessible within a ve-minute walk. Nordhavn is a shining example of sustainable urban planning, blending convenience, environmental consciousness, and a high quality of life.

Nordhavn was designed with people, not cars, in mind. Wide cycling lanes, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a robust public transport system ensure that walking and biking are the primary modes of transportation. Mixed-use buildings combine residential, commercial, and re-

creational spaces, fostering diverse and self-su cient communities. The district’s proximity to the harbour gives a feeling of escape, o ering picturesque ocean views and a connection to nature.

Sustainability is at the core of Nordhavn’s design. Energy-e cient buildings with solar panels and green roofs reduce the district’s carbon footprint. Public spaces are designed to manage stormwater naturally, preventing oods while enhancing biodiversity. The integration of renewable energy sources and a district heating system further solidify Nordhavn as a model of eco-friendly urban living.

Nordhavn’s transformation from an industrial port to a sustainable urban district has captured the attention of city planners worldwide.

Nordhavn exemplifies sustainable urban living.

Released back into its natural habitat.

Image: Houston Zoo

I think it’s now all over

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS

THINK IT

SOMETIMES the very results of this maniacal quest for advanced technology can bring normal human beings to the brink of losing their minds. Not that it would really matter, plenty of AI brain power will still be out there.

Slowly but surely, human existence as we know it is gradually being replaced by bionic androids who will undoubtably one day control all that exists on this rapidly shrinking world of ours. In the none too distant future, humans will not even bother to leave the sanctuary of their homes.

Real flesh and blood inhabitants, who’s shrinking numbers still occupy the planet, will simply project their organic components just about anywhere they care to visit and enjoy the experience as if actually there.

Dinner parties with a circle of friends will consist of just one physical host, the remainder will be lounging at home simply enjoying the link up while still in their pyjamas. What a strange non-existence that will be. Well, it’s on its way. Communicating

with human beings when making enquiries on the phone is already becoming more difficult by the day.

A lady friend of mine, who lives in London, recently rang a large Knightsbridge store to enquire about an appointment to have a new bra fitting. She was actually on the line for over two hours, going around in ever decreasing circles vainly trying to communicate with robot involved numbers, which consistently left her back to where she started. In the end she gave up altogether.

The following morning, she phoned a different store where she was answered by a human being; arranging an appointment took under two minutes!

While we are on the subject of London, the great metropolis which I once loved dearly but now wouldn’t live in for a million quid a day, has recently banned traffic from many of the side roads that lead off the main thoroughfares. This is restricting anyone from taking other routes to their destination.

The result of this Khan inspired scheme is to cause momentous traffic jams on many of the busiest roads and

deadly pollution to pump out of a million vehicle orifices on a daily basis. Apparently, the Wandsworth Bridge Road is one such victim of this sorry state and does in fact get even worse. The mayor and his mob of subordinate idiots have actually built a series of wooden huts along the sides of this now chaotic road for people to sit in and rest a while.

What has in fact transpired is that these ‘Parkettes’, apparently spouting rapidly dying plants on their roofs, are choking with the pollution and obstructing the cycle lanes, causing cyclists to dismount and walk around. How on earth do these useless idiots attain the positions they somehow manage to find themselves in?

I’m afraid it’s all over for the auld country. One thing is for sure, if they continue to endeavour living under the rules of a whole mish mash of different religions, the resulting chaos will bring the whole country down with such a resounding crash even the woke inspired lefties will realise what a bunch of numb brains they truly are.

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Striking gold

SPAIN has just struck gold, literally. In a surprising development, a new gold deposit has been discovered in Spain. The discovery could have significant implications for the future of the economy and the global gold market as a whole. With potentially vast wealth hidden underground, Spain is preparing for a potential transformation in its economy.

Gold has long been considered a safe haven in times of economic crisis, and the more gold a nation has, the more the economy is seen as a safe bet.

The Bank of Spain currently holds 281 tonnes of gold in its vault, valued at approximately €14 billion, which represents 1 per cent of Spain’s total GDP. While that might seem like a lot, compared to other European neighbours, it is quite low. Spanish gold reserves represent only 17.2 per cent of the country’s assets, considerably lower than that of Germany (65.2 per cent), Portugal (64.7 per cent), Italy (62.1 per cent), and France (57.2 per cent).

The discovery of the new gold deposit could change the country’s economic fortunes significantly. If properly exploited, this resource could increase national gold reserves, strengthening Spain’s position in the global market.

Gold discovered in Spain.

Is November too early for Christmas lights? Your

VOICE

LIGHTING UP THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

AS the days grow shorter and the festive season approaches, the glow of Christmas lights begins to brighten some neighbourhoods, sparking joy for some and debates for others. This year the small town of Puente Genil in Andalucia switched on its Christmas lights on Thursday November 14, just two days ahead of Vigo, Galicia, a city known for being the first to kick off the holiday season in Spain.

While it’s common to hear Christmas music and see holiday goods lining the shelves in shops once Halloween decorations are packed away (or sometimes even sooner!), most towns and cities typically wait until December to officially light up the season.

However, with towns like Puente Genil getting a head start, the question remains: Is November too early for Christmas lights, or is it the perfect time to welcome the festive spirit? We asked our readers.

Some, such as Keith Barry, have pointed out that in Spain Christmas celebrations continue until January 6 when children receive their gifts from the Three Wise Men, and therefore believe that “November is far too early for lights and trees!”

Brian Clarke agrees, stating that “by the time the day arrives, we’re over it,” and Nigel Springall compares it to celebrating a birthday six weeks before.

Other readers, such as Caz Pritch, are of the view that “people should do whatever makes them happy [...] it’s their personal choice.” Jane Girvan is in agreement, saying that “if people want to then that’s ok” but adding that for her it is “too early and spoils it.”

Marie Cafolla and Philip Markham note that since the Covid pandemic “the outlook has changed for each individual” and many people put decorations up early in order to feel a bit of positivity and Christmas spirit.

Finally, some readers are totally in favour of putting Christmas lights up early, such as Sandra Beckam and Nikki Meason who, at the time of responding to our poll, had already put their decorations up!

The decision of when to turn on Christmas lights is a matter of personal preference, with no clear consensus. The responses to this week’s poll were divided, with many in favour of starting celebrations early, while others firmly oppose the idea. Additionally, some people believe that it should be up to each individual or community to decide.

Whether you enjoy the early sparkle or prefer to hold off until December, it’s clear that the timing of Christmas lights will continue to be a topic of discussion but, as reader Shirley Morris aptly puts it, “whatever floats your boat.”

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Lady Elizabeth School has been committed to international education for over 37 years, educating bilingual young people to lead in a global environment

WHAT will be the most in-demand careers in the coming years? Which jobs will disappear and which will succeed?

These are questions on everyone’s minds these days, as the education of the future faces significant challenges. Rapid technological evolution demands an adaptive educational approach, promoting skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration.

At Lady Elizabeth School (LES) they understand that globalisation requires greater diversity in the curriculum to prepare students for an interconnected world. Therefore, at this school, traditional teaching gives way to a dynamic education with a

breadth of subjects, more interactive and personalised methodologies and opportunities beyond the classroom.

Innovative and a wide range of subjects and extra-curricular activities in line with the times: Languages, Economics, Business, IT, Arts, Sports, etc. The education of the future focuses on cultivating adaptability and creativity, preparing students to face the challenges of a constantly changing world, and that is precisely what is done at Lady Elizabeth School.

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Another major commitment is multilingualism, with a learning

community of more than 50 nationalities, with strong support for languages that guarantee the multilingualism of students with 100 per cent immersion in English and other languages: Spanish, French and German. In this way, according to LES, they will be prepared to live and lead in a global world, gaining access to universities and jobs all over the world.

the multilingualism of students and

tical and practical learning. The centre has a theatre, recording studio, photography room, libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, swimming pools, etc.

The breadth of subjects with incredible facilities is another key, with a wide range of more than 20 GCSE and A Level subjects on offer for all future options. From Economics or Photography, to Marine Science or Tourism, all in dedicated facilities that enhance both theore-

key, with a wide range of more than 20 GCSE and A Level sub-

LES is also committed to learning beyond the classroom. It offers a wide range of activities and programmes to promote learning beyond the classroom in multiple fields: more than 30 extracurricular activities, student-led initiatives such as Student Voice or the LES Times, language trips, the house system, international programmes such as ISP Model United Nations, TedXYouth or the Buddy Exchange programme, the acclaimed Duke of Edinburgh and much more.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Read about it

HMV will sell books as well as vinyl records and CDs at its flagship Oxford Street store in London, as Canadian owner Doug Putman expressed excitement about Christmas sales. An entire floor will be given over to bestsellers including Tik Tok picks as well as Stephen King and George Orwell, Putman said.

Return to US

MASSIMO DUTTI, Zara’s premium version, is opening a store in Aventura on the outskirts of Miami. Although available online in the US, the Massimo Dutti label is returning to the US years after earlier stores in New York, Costa Mesa (California) and Washington DC all closed “for commercial reasons.”

Helping hand

THE Scott Trust, which owns the Guardian, added Jonathan Paine, a former managing director and senior adviser at Rothschild & Co, to its board. The Trust, currently considering a sale of the Observer which it acquired in 1993, explained that it had appointed Paine owing to his “specialist financial expertise.”

On the road

SPANISH infrastructure company Sacyr won a €1.5 billion contract to improve and maintain Chile’s SantiagoValparaiso-Viña del Mar motorway, while adding more lanes to the 141-kilometre toll road. The company, which will operate Route 68 for 30 years, can expect to earn €3.3 billion from the deal.

Poached exec

ANDREW STANILAND, who has occupied senior positions at Waitrose and Aldi, was due to join Asda in March 2025 to replace the beleaguered supermarket’s commercial director, Paul Gillow. Instead, Staniland now joins Morrisons in early February as group trading director and with a place on the executive committee.

STAT OF WEEK

Head above water

MORE than 75 per cent of Thames Water’s highest-ranking creditors are backing a £3 billion (€3.6 billion) emergency deal to save the com pany from collapse.

The utility company, which was described as “uninvestible” last March, has a debt pile of £16 billion (€19.2 billion) and has blamed wa ter services regulator Ofwat for not allowing it to increase water bills sufficiently.

In September it warned that it risked running out of cash by December.

On November 13, Tha mes Water said that the creditors’ decision to agree to further borrowing was “an important milestone”, as the 75 per cent threshold was the minimum require ment for UK court approval of a modification to its debts. The Class A creditors who came up with the

will be invested in building worldwide data centres by ACS, the Spanish engineering, construction and services group, over the next five years.

FERROVIAL, the Spanish multinational, is selling its stake in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports.

The construction giant and Australia’s Macquarie, who each own 50 per cent of the AGS Airport company, are selling the operator for £900 million (€1.08 million).

This puts an enterprise value of £1.54 billion (€1.85 billion) on the deal, after including £653 million (€785.61 million) in debts.

Ferrovial expects to complete the AGS Airport transaction, subject to approval from the usual re -

THAMES WATER: Creditors come up with rescue deal.

plan for the emergency funding are mainly global investment firms, including the US hedge fund Elliott Investment Management, Apollo Global Management and Silver Point Capital. Thames Water is hoping for a December court hearing and if the plan goes ahead, the company is in line to receive an initial £1.5 billion (€1.8 billion) at an annual 9.75 per cent interest rate. This would keep it afloat until October 2025, providing enough time to completely restructure its debts. Meanwhile the company needs to raise £3.25 billion in new equity. Failing to do so would inevitably lead to nationalisation under the government’s special administration regime. That would allow Thames Water to continue providing essential services while in administration.

Ferrovial exits UK

ABERDEEN AIRPORT: Ferrovial sells AGS Airport.

Travel pays Deal done

THE Curzon cinema chain has been acquired by Fortress Investment Group, the same US investment firm that owns UK’s Poundstretcher and Majestic Wine. Details of the deal were not revealed, but sources close to the transaction said that Fortress had offered $5 million (€4.7 million) for the cinemas, which have 350 employees. The chain was put up for auction after a New York Supreme Court judge ordered its owner, Cohen Media Group, to sell off assets after it defaulted on a $534 million (€502 million) loan.

DEPARTMENT store chain El Corte Ingles posted a €203 million net profit between March 1 and August 31, the first half of its 2024-2025 fiscal year.

This was 11 per cent more than during the same period last year, prompting chairwoman Marta Alvarez to highlight a “significant improvement” across all business areas.

Total revenue reached €8.041 billion, a 2.3 per cent increase, with the Viajes El Corte Ingles travel division contributing €1.2 billion.

This was 6.1 per cent more than during the first half of last year, despite a 7 per cent fall in earnings from business travel, which was compensated by a 10 per cent increase in private holidays.

BLACK FRIDAY, which arrives on November 30, will be free of the galloping inflation of the last three years, the retail sector said.

According to the Asecon consumer’s association, each Spaniard will spend an average €181, with the biggest spenders expected in Madrid with an estimated €245, followed by Barcelona (€243) and Malaga and Navarra, both with €214. Meanwhile, Uno Logistica, which represents supply chain companies, expects to deliver 116,000 Black Friday parcels, 3.6 per cent more than last year.

gulatory bodies, in the first three months of 2025 and anticipates a capital gain of approximately €290 million.

Now listing in New York as well as Spain, Ferrovial moved its headquarters from Madrid to Amsterdam last year, and is focusing on its principal market, the US. In 2022 it acquired a stake in JFK Terminal One, the consortium which is designing, building and will operate the airport in New York once it opens in 2026.

Metro fined

THE Financial Conduct Authority fined Metro Bank £16.7 million (€20.09 million) after discovering “historic failures” over money laundering checks.

Metro lacked the correct systems and controls to adequately monitor over 60 million transactions amounting to more than £51 billion (€61.35 billion) the FCA found.

The City watchdog said the retail bank’s automated monitoring system for customer transactions meant that those carried out the same day that an account was opened did not come under scrutiny.

Metro would have been fined £23.8 million (€28.63 million), the FCA said, but received a 30 per cent discount after agreeing to remedy the shortcomings.

MADRID-BASED Amrest, which owns the La Tagliatella restaurant chain, reported a turnover of €1.89 billion during the first nine months of 2024. This was 4.9 per cent up on same period last year, thanks to increased sales in its two principal markets, Poland and Spain, Amrest said. In Poland, where the company was founded in 1993, sales climbed 30 per cent to €572.1 million while Spain’s sales rose 15 per cent to €267.6 million, with earnings of €54 million before interest, taxes, depreciation, and repayments.

SHARES in BAE Systems have risen by 115 per cent as military spending increases throughout the world.

The British defence, aerospace and information security company has secured orders worth £25 billion (€30.07 billion) so far this year, up from £15 billion (€18.04 billion) at the end of 2024’s first quarter. It was on target to hit its full-year target, BAE said, with 90 per cent of projected revenues already covered.

3I Group 3.436,00 3.444,00 3.419,40 24,85K Admiral Group 2.526,0 2.534,0 2.523,0 15,28K Airtel Africa 96,33 96,55 95,70 121,57K Anglo American 2.304,0 2.320,0 2.296,5 112,87K Antofagasta 1.667,00 1.675,50 1.663,00 21,49K Ashtead Group 6.166,0 6.206,0 6.160,0 21,23K Associated British Foods 2.183,0 2.196,0 2.182,0 20,76K

9.876,0 9.931,0 9.858,0 215,1K Auto Trader Group Plc 799,40 800,40 793,20 76,05K Aviva 486,60 487,60 485,00 192,7K

B&M European Value Retail SA 366,70 380,10 365,80 968,74K

BAE Systems 1.295,00 1.298,00 1.275,50 246,31K

261,25 261,75 259,10 2,86M Barratt Developments 408,40 410,60 406,80 102,93K

Beazley 738,00 741,00 736,50 38,91K

Berkeley 4.304,0 4.330,0 4.288,9 10,68K

BP 383,80 384,95 381,20 1,84M British American Tobacco 2.869,0 2.877,9 2.863,0 174,69K

BT Group 142,90 142,95 141,75 896,93K Bunzl 3.440,0 3.446,0 3.424,0 24,34K Centrica 120,90 121,85 120,05 1,04M

Cola HBC AG 2.738,6 2.750,0 2.720,0 10,14K

2.617,95 2.621,00 2.606,00 91,9K

Group 245,00 248,60 245,00 136,06K Croda Intl 3.496,0 3.520,0 3.479,0 11,87K

5.430,0 5.455,0 5.395,0 10,27K Diageo 2.349,0 2.354,5 2.341,2 118,74K

Record sale

GENERAL MEDITERRANEAN HOLDINGS, owned by Iraqi-British businessman Nadhmi Auchi, sold the five-star Miguel Angel hotel in Madrid for a record €210 million. It has been acquired by the Lopesan Hotel Group from the Canary Islands, in partnership with the Swiss investment firm Stoneweg.

Brand desire

BURBERRY’S new chief executive, Joshua Schulman, said in London that he was confident his turnaround plan would “reignite brand desire.” He was equally confident that the luxury label would return to generating £3 billion (€3.6 billion) annually, Schulman added.

Snub for London

KLARNA, a Swedish fintech company that provides online financial services, will list in New York, not London, in 2025.

The Stockholm-based company confirmed on November 13 that it had “confidentially submitted” an application to the US Securities and Exchange Commission relating to a proposed initial public offering.

Klarna, founded in 2005 by Sebastian Siemiatkowski and one of the world’s largest “buy now, pay later”

flies high

INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES GROUP (IAG) reported third quarter operating profits of €2 billion that were 15 per cent up on the same period last year. Luis Gallego, chief executive of the company which owns BA, Iberia, Vueling and Aer Lingus, attributed the better-than-expected results to the “effectiveness of our strategy” and “group-wide transformation.”

Lower fuel costs also meant that IAG’s fuel bill fell by 4.2 per cent due to using newer aircraft and a lower price for kerosene. The company’s results during the third quarter, which coincided with the high-season summer months, did not make a direct reference to fares, although passenger unit revenue, which is used to measure earnings, rose by 1.2 per cent.

companies, said the price range for the proposed float and the number of shares it would offer, had yet to be determined.

In 2021, after a funding round led by Japan’s Softbank, the company had a peak value of $46 billion (€43.2bn) before it was affected by higher interest rates.

When Chrysalis Investments, a UK-listed Klarna shareholder, increased its stake in the company in October 2024, this gave the Swedish company an implied $14.6 billion (€13.7 billion) valuation.

Bankers nevertheless expected the share price to give the company a valuation of between $15 billion (€14.1 billion) and $20 billion (€18.1 billion).

The decision to list in New York was another snub for the London Stock Exchange after high-profile UK companies Arm and Marex preferred to float in New York in 2023 and 2024 respectively.

Long haul

SPAIN’S National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) is taking a closer look at the BBVA’s hostile Sabadell Bank takeover, in a scrutiny expected to continue well into 2025. Although this is likely to delay the process, Bilbao-based BBVA said that it would “work closely” with the CNMC to reach an agreement and secure approval as soon as possible.

Titans clash

BERNARD ARNAULT, chairman of the LVMH luxury chairman and Europe’s richest man, is suing social media network, X, owned by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk. Arnault claims that X uses content from LVMH publications Le Parisien and Les Echos without paying for it in a lawsuit backed by Le Figaro and Le Monde.

2025 FLOAT: Stockholm-based Klarna has chosen New York.

THE Swiss village of Brienz has become a ghost town once more, as its 80 residents were forced to flee their homes for the second time due to the looming threat of a massive rock avalanche.

Perched precariously beneath a mountain that’s on the move, villagers had until 1pm on Sunday November 17 to pack up and leave. With the deadline now expired, authorities sealed off the settlement entirely.

Brienz evacuated

According to sources at the scene, residents left on their own accord, and there were no incidents. Pascal Porchet - Head of the Cantonal Command and Control Centre - assured that “there was good communication with the residents. As a result, everyone left at the end, as we wanted them to.”

The crisis stems from a staggering 1.2 million cubic metres of rubble perched above Brienz, inching its way down the valley and threatening to wipe the village off the map. This perilous situation, sparked by landslides, could last until spring,

leaving residents in limbo.

Not just people, but animals, precious artworks, and historical treasures have been whisked away to safety. The 500-year-old late Gothic altar from the church of St. Calixtus has been removed for the second time, underscoring the loss the village faces.

Specialists have taken to the skies, using helicopters to install new prism mirrors for the early warning system.

French farmers complain

NO matter which politi cal party rules Fran ce, it’s the far mers who seem to have the real power and they are prepared to demonstrate how powerful they are.

This time it’s not British lamb that’s the problem it’s Bolivian potatoes and other vegetables and fruit grown in South America.

The South American mini ‘equivalent’ of the European Union is Mercosur and the French government has confirmed that it will do all in its’ power to block any deal on agriculture that the two organisations attempt to enter into.

Mercosur is composed of six sovereign member states: Argentina, Bo -

Michel Barnier and Ursula von der Leyen.

livia, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela (suspended since December 2016) as well as six associated states: Suriname, Guyana, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile.

Prime Minister Michel Barnier has already told EU chief Ursula von

der Leyen that “this deal is unacceptable for France” and other ministers are rallying around with one, Antoine Armand confirming to Sud Radio “We are employing all means, including institutional and voting at the European level, to ensure that (the) Mercosur (deal) is not adopted in its current form.” Not unusually, French farmers took to the streets to complain against the deal in both Brussels and Paris as they are scared that the deal, 25 years in the making, will see much cheaper agricultural products from giants Argentina and Brazil hit the streets of France than home grown.

Credit: EU Media Centre

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

INTERVIEW

Speaking EuropeanDuncan Hulsche

In 2019, the much loved, gregarious, yet softly spoken Duncan Hulscher had just about enough of running bars in Amsterdam when he came to Alhaurin el Grande in the Guardalhorce Valley.

BY February 2020, he had ne gotiated a price and bought the lease of Tia Rosa, a bar in the social heart of Alhaurin. But then, everything went sideways. Only having been open for six weeks, the Covid lockdown was imposed and Duncan faced ruin.

“We started doing home deliveries. People were happy with the service, and I think we gained more customers who would later return once the restrictions were eased.”

Often the case with bars and restaurants operated by foreigners is that the clientele tends to be of the same nationality. While it is true that Duncan’s Tia Rosa is the most popular bar with the

Dutch, there’s always a large mix of other nationalities laughing and revelling together here, the Spanish too.

“Living inland here, you have to learn a little Spanish. You have to try. It’s not the same as on the coast. There you can get away with hardly learning any Spanish. But here, if you make a little effort, the locals will take you in, help you, advise you, and they will become your friends and customers.”

No other establishment in Alhaurin el Grande offers quite the same level of welcome and warmth as Tia Rosa, and there is no other host quite like Duncan.

Valencia president faces music

Adam Woodward

MORE than two weeks after the DANA devastated numerous towns in the Valencian Community, leaving more than 200 fatalities and thousands of victims, the president of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, appeared on Friday, November 15, in the regional parliament to finally give explanations for why the disaster happened.

He said, “I am aware that a faster, more coordinated reaction was necessary,” and he accepted that the telephone alerts did not arrive in time.

Floods had begun early in the morning in mountainous towns and villages, but it was not until late afternoon that the emergency messages reached the telephones of people in Valencia City and its surroundings. Many later complained that the messages arrived to their phones

when they were already floating down the street in their cars.

The president of the Valencian Community affirmed that “I do not try to cover up the mistakes. I assume them. I recognise them. I apologise without reserve.”

He continued by stating he welcomed an official investigation into the events of that day.

Many in Valencia lay the blame firmly at Mazón’s feet, including every opposition party in the chambers of the Generalitat Valenciana, (Valencia regional parliament). By the tone of the outrage directed towards him, it seems he will either be forced to resign, or a no-confidence vote will be launched against him continuing in his post.

SPANISH TREES STRUGGLE

SCIENTISTS believe hotter summers and destructive moths could strip Spain of one of its favourite trees by 2050. Recent reports suggest climate change threatens horse chestnuts across Spain.

But throughout earth’s history all life forms have tended to migrate towards the poles during periods of atmospheric heating and migrate towards the equator during periods of atmospheric cooling.

The evidence suggests that, even if we were to achieve carbon net zero, it may help slow the rate of global warming, but not necessarily halt the underlying warming process.

Instead of trying to preserve Spanish horse chestnuts in places where the climate no longer meets their needs, let them migrate northwards to cooler climates (sweet chestnuts are already thriving in Scotland and Northern England) and instead replace them with species better suited to a warming climate.

Meanwhile best take advantage while we can of the vivid autumn colour display laid on by chestnut

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

trees! One of the best walks at this time of year in the hills around Malaga, for instance, is the Ruta de los Castaños (Chestnut Tree Trail). Several villages in the Serrania de Ronda are surrounded by woods shimmering in red, orange and ochre colourways, treating us to one of the greatest spectacles of the autumn season. Enjoy!

Finally, many thanks for all emails to my website! So pleased you enjoy my column – and novels!

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.

Duncan Hulscher, everyone’s favourite proprietor.

Credit: EWN

Carlos Mazón faces Valencian parliament.

Credit: Generalitat

The strangest protein in the world

FAR from the typical household favourite - the McDonald’s beefburger - or from any Michelin-starred variety made from million dollar beef, what if we told you that a new variety of ‘meat’ was coming to town?

At a seaside restaurant in Fredrikstad, Norway, chefs are experimenting with a new type of protein. Yes, that’s right, protein-lovers. This innovative and sustainable protein is destined to be the next big thing with talk of hitting supermarket shelves in Norway and Sweden before the end of the year.

The big question: What is it made from? Well, no other than ‘sea squirts’ – otherwise known in the science world as ciona. These odd-looking creatures are naturally rich in protein and with the help of Pronofa Asa, a Scandinavian company and Swedish research company Marine

Credit:Shutterstock

Taste, they are finding a new place on the kitchen table as an alternative for ground beef, pork or chicken. Strangely, this critter can be farmed and processed to use for fish food, animals and humans. As unbelievable as it may seem, they are making quite a stir in the culinary world and may even be making their way across European supermarkets and restaurants quicker than they can be sourced from the seas.

The tiny creatures, which

taste like umami and feel like calamari (squid), feed through filtering nutrients from seawater and can grow on any solid oceanic surface. They produce a minimal carbon footprint and to top it off, taste like family favourite grub. Sea squirts are translucent tubes that resemble gelatinous sacs, yet sustainable processing methods allow them to be reborn into surprisingly traditional recipes. The only drawback? Getting rid of that faint ‘marine’ taste!

Gladiators and Rome

ROME’S Colosseum will see a return of gladiatorial combat thanks to a $1.5 million donation to this historic monument by Airbnb as part of its tie up with the Gladiator II movie.

Part of the money paid will be used to underwrite the cost of the renovation of the museum itinerary and the permanent exhibition inside the ancient amphitheatre.

Some think this is almost sacrilege, but others feel it’s an impressive way of helping educate those lucky enough to obtain tickets about the history of one of the finest pieces of preserved Roman architecture.

For centuries, the Roman Colosseum has been the stage for epic battles and legendary gladiators. Now, for the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum returns to its original purpose as a venue for performances, inviting daring warriors to step foot inside the historic arena to forge their own paths and shape their destinies.

Only a few lucky applicants will get to fight as gladiators at Rome’s

Guests can request to book one of two, three-hour experiences taking place on May 7 and 8, 2025 at no cost with each experience having the ability to accept 16 guests (eight participants and their plus ones).

Those courageous souls ready to step into history can request to book the Colosseum for an exclusive gladiator experience from 6am November 27 until 11.59pm on December 9.

Applications which are free of charge may be made via airbnb.com/gladiator movie but be aware if you are selected then you will be responsible for all travel costs to and from Rome.

Ciona or sea squirts are becoming big business as a new protein source in Norway.

Colosseum.

The clean beauty revolution

THE clean beauty movement is gaining traction as consumers increasingly seek products free from harmful chemicals and toxins. Driven by a growing awareness of potential risks in cosmetics, shoppers are now more discerning about ingredient lists, prompting brands to reformulate and embrace transparency.

Recent studies show that over 70 per cent of consumers prefer beauty products without parabens, sulphates, and synthetic fragrances. This demand has led

both established and emerging brands to pivot towards natural, organic ingredients, often sourced ethically and sustainably.

The rise of social media has further amplified the conversation around clean beauty, with influencers and dermatologists highlighting toxic ingredients.

To assist in this effort, cosmetic scanner apps have gained popularity, allowing users to scan product barcodes and receive instant information on ingredient safety. These apps empower

consumers to make informed choices, enhancing the movement’s reach.

As a result, the clean beauty market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, with brands launching new lines that prioritise eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free testing.

This shift reflects a broader trend towards holistic health, where beauty products align with consumers’ values for wellness and environmental responsibility.

Nature’s aromatic remedies

ESSENTIAL oils have gained significant popularity in recent years, praised for their therapeutic properties and natural appeal. Extracted from plants, these concentrated oils are used in aromatherapy, skincare, and holistic wellness, offering a range of benefits that many find appealing.

Commonly used oils include lavender, known for its calming effects, and tea tree oil, revered for its antibacterial properties. Users often diffuse these oils to create a soothing atmosphere or apply them topically (with proper dilution) to address various ailments, from stress relief to skincare.

Experts highlight the importance of quality

when choosing essential oils. Pure, high-quality oils can provide the best results, while synthetic alternatives may lack effectiveness. Moreover, it’s crucial to be aware of potential allergies or sensitivities.

As consumers become more health-conscious, many are turning to essential oils as a natural alternative to conventional remedies. However, healthcare professionals advise caution, emphasising that essential oils should complement, not replace, traditional medical treatments. With ongoing research into their benefits, essential oils continue to captivate those seeking holistic approaches to wellness.

A weighty debate

WEIGHING yourself regu larly can be a helpful tool for tracking health and fit ness goals, but it comes with both benefits and drawbacks.

Pros:

Weighing in consis tently can offer insights into your body’s chan ges over time, helping you adjust your diet or exercise as needed. It can motivate you to stay on track with weight-re lated goals and provide a measurable way to gauge progress. Regular weigh-ins can also help catch gradual wei ght gain early, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.

Cons:

Focusing too heavily on weight can sometimes lead to unhealthy habits or stress, especially if the scale doesn’t reflect short-term progress. Weight can fluctuate daily due to water retention, muscle gain, or hormonal changes, which might be discouraging. Overemphasis on the scale

might overlook other indicators of health, such as fitness levels, mental well-being, and body composition.

Ultimately, weighing yourself is a personal choice. If it helps you stay motivated without adding stress, it can be a beneficial practice, but it’s not the only measure of health.

Understanding PCOS

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME

(PCOS) affects approximately one in 10 women of reproductive age, leading to a range of symptoms including irregular periods, weight gain, and infertility. Recent studies highlight the significant impact of diet on managing this complex condition.

A balanced diet rich in whole foods can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.

Experts recommend a focus on low glycaemic index (GI) foods, which can aid in stabilising blood sugar levels. Incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can also support hormonal balance.

Research suggests that women with PCOS may benefit from a Mediterranean-style diet, which includes healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, as well as fish and legumes. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through portion control and regular physical activity can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce symptoms.

Healthcare professionals encoura-

ge those affected by PCOS to work closely with nutritionists for personalised meal plans.

With the right dietary changes, many women find relief from their symptoms and a path to better overall health.

As awareness grows, so too does the hope for effective management strategies.

Ditching digital

USING a paper habit tracker offers a unique and mindful approach to building routines. While technology provides convenience, paper trac-

kers allow for a more personal, hands-on experience. Writing down habits and goals each day makes them feel tangible, which can boost

motivation and commitment. Crossing off tasks or adding marks for completed habits is rewarding and provides a clear visual of your progress. Paper trackers are also distraction-free. Unlike a phone app, they don’t come with notifications, ads, or other interruptions, allowing for a focused moment with your goals. This simplicity can foster mindfulness, as taking a moment to reflect on each habit and write it down becomes a meditative process.

Additionally, paper trackers are highly customisable. You can tailor them to suit your style, adding colours, drawings, or quotes for inspiration. They can be as simple or creative as you like, helping build consistency in a way that feels enjoyable and keeps you connected to your goals.

Costa del Sol Malaga flood hero

MANSOUR KONTE, the young man who went to the rescue of a Malaga woman in the floods on November 13 , has been applauded as a hero of the city by Mayor Francisco de la Torre.

On Wednesday, November 13, a woman was trying to get home walking along Calle Héroe de Sostoa in the centre of Malaga when floodwaters rose almost up to her knees. She entered into a state of shock in front of the Repsol petrol station fixed to the spot with fear only a short time after the horrific images of the floods in Valencia.

Local residents shouted from windows to move out of the rising waters, but she could not move. Until 19-year-old Mansour waded out to her, picked her up in his arms, and carried her to safety.

Mansour, a refugee from Guinea now living in the same Malaga street, melted the hearts of his neighbours as he chivalrously helped the woman out of the rising flood waters.

Axarquia Rain relief

THE La Viñuela reservoir, which supplies water to Axarquia, now holds three times as much water as it did this time last year, with 35 hectometres cubed (hm³) stored. But even with this boost, it’s still in extreme drought, at just 21 per cent of its total capacity of 164 hm³.

Recent rains from a weather event known as a DANA have helped, adding 10 hm³ over the past week. But while this provides water for the population for another six months, it’s still not enough to allow for agricultural irrigation. The reservoir needs at least six more hm³ to move out of extreme drought, but even then, the situation will only shift to severe drought - still serious, but slightly better.

Currently, residents are limited to 180 litres of water per person daily, down from 200 litres last month.

While the recent rains are a small relief, they came with a heavy price. The DANA also caused rivers to overflow, damaging homes, cars, and infrastructure across the region.

Mallorca Wages below average

ACCORDING to data from the Agencia Tributaria, the average annual salary in the Balearic Islands in 2023 was €23,126, reflecting a 6.25 per cent increase from 2022. However, this figure remains below the national average of €23,981.

When broken down by age, salaries for those aged 18 to 35 are higher in the Balearic Islands than in the rest of Spain. From age 36 onward, however, Balearic salaries fall behind, with the largest gap among those over 65, who earn up to €1,600 less per year than their counterparts elsewhere.

Although banking and insurance is the highest-earning sector in the Balearic Islands, salaries in this sector still trail behind the national norm.

Despite this data, the Balearic Islands saw the highest average house prices in the third quarter of 2023 in Spain.

Inflation, rising house prices and stagnant wages remain major concerns for residents of the Balearic Islands.

Costa Blanca South Speedy sales

ACCORDING to a recent study by Idealista, 13 per cent of properties sold through the real estate platform during the third quarter (Q3) of 2024 were on the market for less than a week.

These ‘express sales’ have remained steady over the past year, as the same percentage was recorded in the third quarter of 2023. Of the properties sold, 16 per cent took between one week and one month to sell, 24 per cent between one and three months, and 33 per cent between three months and a year. Thirteen per cent had been listed for over a year.

In Spain’s larger cities, express sales are more common, with Valencia and Alicante both seeing a notable presence of properties sold in less than a week.

In fact, Valencia has seen a slight increase in express sales, rising from 17 per cent in 2023 to 18 per cent in Q3 of 2024, while Alicante has also experienced growth, from 12 per cent to 13 per cent.

Almeria

Storm recovery

ALMERIA is bouncing back after the recent DANA (cold drop) wreaked havoc across the province, leaving behind flooded roads, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted lives. The A-7 motorway near El Ejido experienced significant closures, stranding drivers and halting vital transport links, while local businesses and residents contended with heavy rainfall and rising water levels.

Recovery efforts are now in full swing. Emergency teams have been working tirelessly to clear debris, reopen blocked routes, and provide support to the worst-affected areas. Volunteers and community groups have also stepped in, offering supplies and assistance to those in need.

As the province rebuilds, attention from government officials is turning towards enhancing infrastructure and flood defences to better withstand future storms.

For now, the focus remains on restoring normalcy and ensuring Almeria is stronger and more prepared than ever.

Costa Calida Jubilee Year success

THE Caravaca de la Cruz Jubilee Year has already attracted over 700,000 visitors, with numbers continuing to rise, according to Fernando López Miras, President of the Region of Murcia. Speaking at an event recently López Miras shared his excitement about the event’s impact on the local economy and tourism.

“This is turning out to be the best year for tourism in Murcia’s history,” he said, pointing to record numbers of visitors and the boost to the region’s economy.

From January to September, the region’s accommodations saw over 1.47 million travellers - a 5.4 per cent increase compared to last year. This growth outpaced the national average, which was just 3.9 per cent.

In addition, the number of overnight stays topped 4.5 million, and tourism’s economic contribution reached a record €4.1 billion.

From TikTok fame to a global sugar rush

A TIKTOK trend has turned Sweden’s beloved candy tradition, lördagsgodis (Saturday sweets), into a global phenomenon, creating unexpected shortages at home and abroad.

Rooted in 1950s Swedish culture, lördagsgodis encourages families to indulge in sugary treats once a week. This tradition, born to combat tooth decay, exemplifies Sweden’s philosophy of lagom - balance in all things. The craze began when a viral TikTok by Marygrace Graves showcased the joy of Sweden’s pick’n’mix candies at Brooklyn’s BonBon shop. Dubbed ‘candy salad’, her video attracted millions of views, spiking international demand. However, this surge coincided with summer factory closures in Sweden, where candy producers like Bubs paused

BELGIUM was preparing for its first snow of the season, with colder weather expected to grip the country next week. The Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) forecast temperatures dropping below freezing in some areas, bringing the season’s first snow to elevated regions like the Ardennes and the High Fens.

“Some snow is possible in Upper Belgium from Tuesday,” reported the RMI, as daytime highs hover around 0°C and nighttime lows dip to -2°C. However, the snowfall will likely be light, with only a few centimetres predicted - insufficient for winter sports like skiing or sledging. Warmer weekend temperatures will likely melt

operations for maintenance and staff vacations. “By the time we reopened, we had sold everything we’d produced,” explained Niclas Arnelin of Orkla, Bubs’ parent company. Production has since focused on just three candy types, yet shortages persist. To prioritise locals, Swedish shops have implemented rationing. Expat communities, meanwhile, rely on specialty stores like London’s ScandiKitchen, where lördagsgodis offers a taste of home. Co-founder Jonas Aurell noted, “When you’re homesick, getting some sweets is a big thing for us.”

Despite challenges, the tradition thrives. Scandinavian shops carefully curate pick’n’mix displays, with staff ensuring the perfect presentation of salty liquorice, watermelon jellies, and more.

A new crime for Italy

ITALY’S law turning surrogacy into a ‘universal’ crime is now official.

Approved by the Senate on October 16, the bill was signed by Italy’s president Sergio Mattarella on November 4 and was formalised on November 18 by publication in the Official Gazette.

Surrogacy was outlawed inside Italy in 2004, but Italians who go abroad to pay a woman to bear a child on their behalf are now regarded as criminals, could be fined €1 million, and spend up to two years in prison.

First snow of the season

Snow may be possible in some higher areas.

any snow that accumulates.

For the rest of the country, rain will dominate the forecast. After a sunny weekend, clouds and intermittent rain were expected to sweep

across Belgium next week. A rain front will move through on Tuesday, followed by colder air midweek, dropping temperatures in central and northern regions to around

6°C during the day and close to freezing at night. Strong winds will make it feel even colder, although the likelihood of snow in Flanders or Brussels remains minimal.

Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni has made no secret of her personal opposition to surrogacy, which she maintains is “inhuman” and takes advantage of women whose babies are torn from them by a “brutal trade.”

Surrogacy is barred in Spain but the law does not pursue couples who go abroad to find, and reimburse, a surrogate mother.

Altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate mother’s financial compensation does not extend beyond her medical and

legal expenses, is legal in the UK, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, the US, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina and Guatemala.

Commercial surrogacy is legal in Georgia and Greece.

Even in 2017 the Swiss-based International Social Security Association calculated that 20,000 babies were born to surrogate mothers each year, while by 2022 the surrogacy business moved an annual $14 billion (€13.2 billion) according to Global Market Insights.

TIP ‘Windows to Wellness’

GROOMING your dog regularly keeps their coat clean, healthy, and free from mats. It also promotes good hygiene, reduces shedding, and strengthens your bond with them.

Furry fashion fix

TYING your dog’s hair up can be both a yes and a no, depending on the circumstances and how it’s done.

For breeds with long hair, such as Shih Tzus, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers, tying their hair up can be beneficial.

It keeps hair out of their eyes, which can prevent irritation and improve visibility. Using soft, dog-friendly hair ties can also help manage their coat, reducing tangles and mats.

However, there are some considerations. It’s important to ensure that the hair tie is not too tight, as this can cause discomfort, restrict blood flow, or even damage the hair follicles. Regularly check the tied-up area for any signs of irritation or discomfort. Additionally, avoid leaving hair tied up for extended periods and give your dog breaks to ensure their comfort.

Ultimately, tying up your dog’s hair can be a practical grooming solution if done carefully and attentively. Always prioritise your pet’s comfort and health to ensure their well-being.

Feline loves staying at home with a cat-sitter

FELINE lives in Malaga with her owners Jim and Jenny. There are other pets in the home but Feline is the senior resident. With two cats in the family, paying for catteries is an expensive business. However, through HouseSitMatch Jim and Jenny are able to welcome checked house-sitters into their home to pet-sit like visiting friends. No money changes hands, and the pet loving sitters get to stay in their lovely home for free.

HouseSitMatch Saves You Money - 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 young and old in your absence. It’s a house-sitting 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, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.

Your pets stay at home - Safe and Undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind for you and your pets.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join now and get organised today:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online

3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

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Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation! Reader exclusive offer - 20% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 20% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.

HouseSitMatch house-sitters don’t charge and keep your pets company - Feline likes them.

Perfect for rural roads

ANYONE interested in changing out their sensible road car in rural Andalucia will have probably noted the unusually high number of Suzuki Jimnys around and wondered why.

The little Japanese 4x4

is a common sight on Andalucian country roads, especially inland where the hills are daunting, and side roads full of potholes.

With a boot that is barely as capacious as most glove compartments and

only four seats to speak of, the popularity of the Jimny may seem an unusual choice, but it makes sense.

Between 1985 and 2000, the Suzuki Jimny was manufactured in Andalucia, and so buying a homegrown product was seen as loyalty to the Andalucian brand.

Price, was also a serious factor, with many off-roaders being well out of the reach of agricultural families. While transporting large livestock might be the order of the day in northern Spanish landscapes, boxes of fruit are no match for the little Jimny.

The basic no-frills appeal of the Suzuki’s smallest 4x4 has always meant that it was a doddle to repair. With parts readily available from the Linares Suzuki plant, repair bills have always been relatively low.

New, and for under €12,000 there are few options that can adequately manage mountain roads.

Point recovery courses

ON November 4, 2024, new regulations for driving licence point recovery courses came into effect in Spain, sparking significant controversy.

One of the most debated changes involves the reduction of points that drivers can recover from six to four through the ‘partial recovery’ course.

This change has been criticised by the Association of European Motorists (AEA), which has filed an emergency appeal before Spain’s National Court, arguing that the new rule violates the legal rights of motorists who take these courses and contradicts the existing Law on Road Safety.

The AEA claims that the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, does not have the authority to

New regulations have come into effect.

make this change. The law, passed over 15 years ago, explicitly allows drivers to recover up to six points through a training course every two years.

AEA argues that any amendment to this should be made by the Spanish Parliament, not by a government minister.

In addition to the points reduction, other

changes to the courses include increased group dynamics to improve learning, the creation of new profiles for specific traffic offences like distractions and speeding, and mandatory victim participation to enhance the courses’ effectiveness.

The courses will also introduce new technologies, including online learning options.

Lexus LBX - an impressive debut

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

SOMETIMES when a test car turns up on my driveway, a glance is passed, and it’s back to the keyboard. Occasionally though its arrival is heralded by a bright and glowing hue cast through the window of my office. Such was the case with the latest Lexus, the LBX. Passionate Yellow, yes really, isn’t even an extra cost option. Therefore, if you like bright then Lexus can certainly deliver.

A compact crossover it has the usual stand out Lexus styling along with a distinctly premium feel. It uses the same 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine that features in the Yaris Cross (upon which it is loosely based) and with hybrid assistance. The all-wheel-drive version adds an additional motor at the rear. The hybrid technology follows the usual rules in offering electric propulsion at low speed with the engine cutting in smoothly when required. Lexus has always managed to ensure their CVT automatic gearboxes are suitably muted compared to rivals and the LBX is no exception. Arguably riding a little on the firm side it’s nonetheless comfortable yet manages to prove enjoyable through the bends, feeling positive and surefooted even in standard two-wheel-drive form.

As with all Lexus models the interior has a solid and quality build and genuinely feels like a small premium car. There are also proper buttons! While there is some touchscreen interaction required the important controls such as climate, driving modes and sound system volume are button operated. Even the touch screen controls are less involved than many these days. However, the steering wheel controls are fiddly and annoying, making hard work of something that should be

simple. There are small touchpad style controls that are far too sensitive and too easily caught when driving. Don’t change what isn’t broken Lexus!

The style and character of the LBX follows the tried and tested Lexus mantra of quality and refinement, there’s a decent turn of speed when required and the build quality is superb.

The lack of plastic body cladding and noticeably raised ride height also helps in giving the LBX a much more pre-

FACTS AT A GLANCE

• Model: Lexus LBX Premium Plus Design FWD

• Engine: 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder developing 136hp and with hybrid assistance via a 69kw battery.

• Gears: CVT automatic

• Price: €42,814/£35,605

• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62 mph 9.2 seconds/Max speed 171 kph/106 mph

• Economy: 4.48 l/100km62.7 mpg

• Emissions: 102 g/km

Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

mium look compared to rivals. Prices are competitive with the range starting from €37,174/£30,915 and peaking at €49,873/£41,475 for the top line model. Extra cost option packs are offered but the standard equipment across the range is commendably comprehensive.

Many competitors have lower pricing but the Lexus still wins out if you’re looking for a small, well equipped and genuinely premium car.

The Lexus wins if you’re looking for a small, well equipped and genuinely premium car.

La Vuelta starts in Torino

La Vuelta 2025 in Italy.

Photo: Pixabay

THE 80th edition of La Vuelta a España in 2025 has yet to be o cially announced, but it is already making waves in the cycling world.

Although not properly con rmed, reports suggest that the race will begin in Italy, with Torino hosting the rst start.

The Piedmont region has been heavily investing in hosting premier cycling events, including Il Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, with local sources reporting that Piedmont

will spend €7 million to secure the honour of hosting the start of La Vuelta.

Hosting starts or nishes in other countries has become a trend for major cycling events, boosting international visibility and fostering partnerships.

La Vuelta has a history of starting or featuring stages outside Spain. In 2009, the race began in Assen, Netherlands, and in 2017, it included three stages in France. For instance, the 2024 Tour de France commenced in Florence,

marking the rst time in its 120-year history that the race started in Italy. Similarly, rumours indicate that the 2025 Giro d’Italia could conclude in Albania.

The o cial calendar of the International Cycling Union (UCI) lists the start date for La Vuelta 2025 as Saturday August 23 and the speci c routes will be disclosed on December 19.

While the exact plans for the 2025 edition are still under wraps, one con rmed detail is that La Vuelta 2026 will start in Monaco.

Tyson vs Paul

THE long-heralded match between YouTuber Jake Paul and professional boxing legend Mike Tyson drew criticism from all sides. What was originally pitched as an exhibition match on Net ix between Paul (27) and Tyson (58), was reclassi ed as ‘professional’ earlier in 2024 at the behest of the two ghters.

Under this categorisation of ‘professional,’ spectators were hoping for two boxers to go for the victory from round 1, but it was not like that. Unfortunately, the worst predictions came true, and it converted into a seemingly choreographed dance. There were a lot of missed blows

and occasionally some that hit their target from Paul to justify a lacklustre victory by unanimous decision.

‘Iron Mike’, held back from the rst round to prolong the show for the TV cameras. If he had wanted to, he could have knocked out his opponent from the beginning. There came a point where he even decided not even to raise his sts, or just threw punches in the air in case the kid got attened. Of course, the two contenders managed to take the hype of this event to an incredible level, and both will pocket a million, especially Jake Paul as promoter of the event.

Jorge Martin crowned 2024 MotoGP Champion

JORGE MARTIN has made history by becoming the 2024 MotoGP World Champion, marking the first time an independent rider has claimed this title in the MotoGP era.

The Spanish Prima Pramac Racing star clinched his victory with a third-place finish at the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP finale. Despite Francesco Bagnaia, his main rival from Ducati, winning the race, Martin’s consistent performances throughout the season

took victory. He handled the pressure, finishing behind Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, maintaining a slim 10-point margin.

Bagnaia, a two-time MotoGP champion, fought hard, securing his 11th win of the season. However, Martin’s incredible 32 podium finishes across the year kept him in the lead. The season-ending race at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya delivered drama as Aleix Espargaro, in his final career outing, thrilled the crowd with aggressive moves. Meanwhile, Marc Marquez overtook Martin early on, intensifying the competition.

Martin’s triumph represents a shift in the MotoGP landscape, breaking Ducati’s dominance and showcasing his determination. Fans are now eager to see if he will defend his title against fierce competitors in the next season.