Costa del Sol 28 Nov - 4 Dec 2024 Issue 2056

Santa spotted in Fuengirola “Holiday hero hits the Coast”

SANTA CLAUS has just nished his long holiday in Fuengirola and has taken his sled back to Lapland to receive visits from children from all over the world, but not before nding time for an interview with the Euro Weekly News Yes, that’s right. Santa Claus. The real one.

It’s hard work being Santa, and he likes nothing more than spending his free time supping on a pint of the black stu down at Christy’s in Fuengirola.

One of the things he told us was not only does he chat with starry-eyed children in English, but he also communicates in sign language with deaf kids too.

“I was hired as a semi-professional magician until the new bosses didn’t want a magician anymore. So the old Santa in Lapland chose me when he retired. I asked him why and he said, ‘Well, look at your physique!’

“I’m given a manifest with each child’s details, what they want for Christmas, and where they are from. Not even the parents realise I know sign language. When they can see that, they are gobsmacked and put their phones down. Then I ask, ‘Do you have a letter for Santa? They never do, because

the elves have already taken them. Then, with some ash powder, there’s a pu of smoke, and the letters appear in my hand.

“We asked Santa if he ever had many really naughty children. ‘Once or twice.’ ‘You’re not a real Santa!’ They say, and pull on my beard. ‘Give it a good tug while you’re there, won’t you? I say. Then they behave themselves’.

“Now, I can’t wait to get back to Christy’s in Fuengirola and take Paul’s Tomahawk Challenge. I’ll miss his famous Christmas shirts he wears in December, though.’

Costa del Sol • Issue No. 2056 • 28 Nov - 4 Dec 2024

Santa heads back to Lapland for the festive rush.

Nightmare on AP-7

THERE was a serious traffic incident on the AP-7 motorway in Estepona, involving two large lorries at around 12.40pm, on Monday November 25. The road was completely closed in the direction of Malaga city centre, bringing traffic to a standstill at kilometre 150.

There were early reports from emergency services that the collision was caused when one of the lorries was forced to stop due to a mechanical issue. But what was meant to be a temporary delay on the AP-7 quickly turned into a full-blown accident causing miles of traffic in its wake, when a second lorry smashed into the broken-down vehicle.

At the time of writing, there were no details about potential injuries or how serious the damage was. It was a tense waiting game as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and assess the situation.

Motorists wee advised to stay alert and exercise extreme caution on the roads. Emergency crews warned drivers to follow all signs and instructions from the authorities on the scene.

MALICIOUS intent or irresponsible chemical disposal are suspected in the senseless death of a young terrier pup. Dog owners in Los Pacos, Fuengirola, are advised to be on the lookout for suspicious activity near the local dog park.

Either chemicals or rat poison is the likely substance to have killed Tilly the Yorkshire terrier on the night of November 16. The symptoms, according to the vet’s report, coincide with some sort of strong chemical poisoning. No other dogs have suffered such effects.

Her lifeless body was discovered back home under a kitchen unit surrounded by a pool of her own blood that had come from her eyes, nose, and mouth, but with no external indication of injury.

She had been running around with five other

Tilly poisoned

doggie friends at the local dog park but at some point between there and home, she must have come in contact with a substance that cut short her life.

‘PESCA de Juguetes en Benalmadena’, or Fishing for toys Benalmadena, begins on Sunday, December 1 in the Bil-Bil castle from 11am to 2pm.

The idea behind the event is to unite the local community in a grand collection of toys, clothes, and books that will be donated to children and families in economically vulnerable situations, ensuring, according to Social Welfare councillor Áurea Peralta, that “no child is left without a gift on these special festive days of the year. Everything donated will be given to Caritas Diocesana Inmaculada

National police officers were visibly moved by the sight of the poor dog and have investigated the area, but they are still unsure who was responsible as well as their motive.

Various sources of the poisoning are being considered from a deliberate act to illegal dumping of chemical bottles on an adjacent piece of wasteland on the A7.

Bikers for toys

Biking for charity.

Concepción, who will take care of the delivery and redistribution of the toys to those who need them most.”

Three recognised motorcycle associations will also participate in the initiative to bring a touch of adrenaline and community, specifically, Grupo Motero 222, Sun Coast Customs, and V-Strom Andalucia. At 11am, a motorcycle rally has been planned that will start in front of the Pre-Columbian Museum in Benalmadena Pueblo, ending at 12.30pm at the El Bil-Bil Castle, where there will be a motorcycle exhibition.

Nightmare on the AP-7: Two lorries collided and blocked motorway in Estepona.

Credit: Shutterstock,

Tilly had visited the local dog park.

Credit: Sarah Louise White

Spain tightens grip on squatters

“New

crackdown sparks national debate”

SQUATTERS beware. Spain’s Congress has just dropped a legislative bombshell that promises to evict ‘okupas’ faster than you can say ‘desalojo’. In a move that’s sparking heated debate across the country, the newly approved ‘anti-okupas’ law aims to slash eviction times from months to mere hours.

This sweeping reform, which has already passed through Congress, now heads to the Senate for its final seal of approval. Once it lands in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), it’s game over for squatters.

Spain’s Congress saw unexpected alliances and embarrassing mishaps during the vote. The contro versial reform, backed by the PNV, won support from unlikely allies including PP, Junts, and even Bildu and ERC - though the latter two admitted their ‘inexcusa ble error’ in supporting it.

On the other side, PSOE, Sumar, Podemos, and BNG voted against allowing property owners to quickly evict illegal squatters, while Vox sat firmly on the fence with an abstention. With the PP holding a Senate majority, all signs point to smooth sailing for final approval.

The reform targets articles 245 and 202 of the Penal Code, making squatting a fast-track offence. Usurpation and unlawful entry will now be dealt with in

‘Adiós’ squatters: Thanks for the memories.

expedited trials - think eviction in 15 days or less. No more standard trials dragging on for months; it’s all about swift justice.

But, where will all these people go? Sure, some will be forced to do the unthinkable and actually pay for rent, but the truly vulnerable may be left exposed. Is it time for more social housing in Spain?

Growing concerns over public healthcare

NEGOTIATIONS over the contract to provide private medical insurance to some 1.5 million civil servants have not reached a positive outcome.

Therefore, it would appear that these workers are likely to be absorbed into the public health service over nine months following the end of their current insurance agreement in February 2025.

However, many doctors and nurses have raised concerns about the transfer of the Muface patients and the impact this is anticipated to have on current waiting lists. For example, Jose Polo, a family doctor and president of the Spanish Society for Primary Care

Doctors expressed: “There are provincial capitals or certain health centres, where there are already waiting lists for a certain number of patients and number

of professionals assigned to that centre. But if all of a sudden 5,000 or 3,000 more patients are added, we will have to calculate what that distribution is like or if there is a possibility of increasing staff.” Indeed, while it is estimated this number of additional people is a ‘reasonable’ increase of around 2.1 per cent, IDIS, the private health employers’ association, argues this volume of private patients “reduces the pressure on care in the public sector and avoids the increase in waiting lists for outpatient consultations by 266 per cent, surgical consultations by 115 per cent, and more than five million visits in Primary Care.”

However, the government’s lack of agreement with the three current service providers has left it having to consider the very real possibility of incorporating the mutual society population into public health care.

Tourist flats face extinction

AIRBNB have slammed Barcelona’s plans to axe tourist apartments by 2028, urging the city council to ‘rethink’ its restrictions. The holiday rental juggernaut made its fiery plea in a letter to Mayor Jaume Collboni, marking the 10th anniversary of the city’s moratorium on new licences for short-term lets.

The online platform didn’t hold back, branding the decade-old rules ‘ineffective’. Airbnb claims the measures have done little to solve Barcelona’s housing crisis or curb mass tourism. Instead, it accused the hotel industry of inflating prices to record highs while thousands of tourist flats sit in regulatory limbo.

The latest plan would see licences for over 10,000 tourist apartments in Barcelona disappear by the year 2028. The goal is to turn them into much-needed homes for local residents.

But Airbnb isn’t buying it. The rental giant hit back, pointing out what it called a glaring contradiction: while the city vows to crack down on mass tourism, it’s also eyeing up space for 5,000 shiny new hotel rooms.

Airbnb says it’s played by the rules, boasting that it has scrubbed over 7,000 illegal listings since 2018. However, the platform insists that Barcelona’s approach is all wrong. In their letter, they claim that what’s needed are ‘real solutions to the housing and tourism problem’, adding that its service supports thousands of locals who rely on extra income from letting out their homes.

This battle is far from over, and it could be a ‘dress rehearsal’ for what will unfold in the rest of Spain.

New driving rules introduced to curb rising accident rates

THE DGT is making some changes to driving rules in response to accidents and other issues that have been of concern for some time.

Under the new code regarding the use of lanes on highways and motorways, which will apply to all types of vehicles in situations of high congestion or adverse weather conditions, there will be two notable differences.

One point to be added to Article 31 of the General Traffic Regulations is that drivers will be prohibited from overtaking in heavy rain. All drivers will be expected to moderate their speed and occupy only the right-hand lane while maintaining a good distance from the

vehicle in front.

Another rule will be allowing access to emergency vehicles in slow or stopped traffic. Often a road accident will provoke tailbacks as drivers optimistically try to speed up their passage by zig-zagging from lane to lane. From 2025, this will no longer be permitted, and in the case of two and three-lane motorways that are jammed, the left lane must be kept empty in order to facilitate access by emergency vehicles.

Some good news for motorcyclists, however, is that in the event of stopped traffic on a motorway, motorcycles will be permitted to use the hard shoulder to overtake at a maximum of 30 kph.

Spain’s public health service could be under strain from 2025.

Credit: Shutterstock, sangriana

Make home visit pledges a gift this year.

Adam Woodward

MOST of us are aware of the changes that getting older can bring. Friends and family will either have moved away or passed away, and the walls of our life, as we knew it, begin to close in.

That can often lead to loneliness and social isolation, which have been shown to have an adverse affect on both our physical and mental state. None of us want or need that.

At Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro, they know that talking and listening are really helpful in warding off loneliness and isolation. Everything we do is driven by the desire to ensure that nobody needs to feel alone. There is no need to feel alone on the Costa del Sol. The community here

Gift community this Christmas Soroptimists march

MONDAY, November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, members of Soroptimist International Costa del Sol joined the march in Malaga, organised by ‘Plataforma Violencia Cero’ a collective of women’s organisations in the province of Malaga.

Approximate 5,000 women and men of all ages walked through the city centre to Constitution Square, where the participants called for an end to femicide.

At the square, the names of 2024’s victims were solemnly read out one by one, name, date, town, and the name of each man who murdered them and their relationship. 42 in total, women from all over the country: Candida, 57 years old from Aldea del Rey, killed by her

sticks together.

The activities in Age Concern’s community centre, the get-togethers at their regular local coffee mornings, home visits, and being there at your medical appointments are all part of what they do. There are also lunches, outings and other social events.

Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro are here to help. Please call or WhatsApp them on 689 355 198 or drop them a line at info@ageconcernmarbella.com.

If you are able to spend a little time talking and listening to someone who may not see another person for days on end, please call them. Make your New Year’s Resolution the Costa del Sol community. Let Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro be what puts us together.

Soroptimists march in Malaga.

partner Miguel. Gracia, 49 years old from Pizarra, killed by her ex-partner Paco… and the list went on and on. Not only women were killed, also 10 children aged between hree and 12 years, mostly killed by their fathers.

In a manifesto, which was read out to the crowds, women’s associations demanded their rights because the laws to protect women mean nothing if they are not upheld.

The Soroptimists continue their work and get ready for the next demonstration on March 8, as showing support and solidarity are vitally important and will be shown.

For more information on the Soroptimists, visit their website: cos tadelsol.soroptimist.es or send an email to sorop timist.costadelsol@gmail. com, and follow the association on Facebook: Soroptimist International Costa del Sol.

Locals clean up

APPARENTLY it was Napoleon who once said, ‘If you want a job doing well, do it yourself,’ and Marbella citizens have taken the old adage to heart.

The Marbella Activa association, in collaboration with several other social groups, have organised a volunteer activity to carry out the manual clearing of the historic Guadalpín mill, also known as Magaña and Villafañe, with the aim of stopping its progressive deterioration.

The first cleaning meet took place on Sunday, November 24, with another planned for the following weekend on Sunday, December 1. The idea was to remove weeds that cover the monument and draw attention to its abandonment.

Often known as the Magaña mill, it is the remains of a public mill constructed in the 15th century.

However, in recent years it has fallen into ruin, been vandalised, and is mostly covered by weeds.

The last time the building was actually used as a mill was in the early 1950s; however, locals still feel a lot of affection for the building. Campaign groups have spent the last five years trying to get Marbella Council to

Job fair

give the structure some tender loving care, but to no avail. For that reason, various local groups have come together to deal with the issue themselves.

For those interested in taking part in saving this much loved relic, they can sign up for a morning of community action on the Asociación Marbella Activa page on Facebook.

MARBELLA job fair is being brought forward to January to tackle the usual end of temporary jobs after Christmas.

Now, the fair will take place on Thursday, January 16 at the Adolfo Suárez Fair and Congress Centre. The event will be counting on the presence of 140 companies offering somewhere in the region of 2,000 jobs.

The objective is to ‘facilitate the insertion of those unemployed and the selec-

tion of personnel by human resources departments,’ according to the councillor for Employment. He also mentioned that ‘this year there will be a special commitment to the sector of new technologies due to their importance in the diversification of our economy.

In previous years, over 5,000 people have attended the job fair, reaching a maximum capacity for the Centro de Congresos. For this reason, it is advised

that those wishing to attend get their free tickets early from enterticket.es. The fair will have company stands from sectors such as tourism, services, real estate, construction and maintenance, as well as 20 spaces allocated to institutions and groups, including the city council itself, which will inform visitors of the different municipal programmes that are underway and training courses available.

Ancient mill fallen into disrepair.

Million tonnes of aid

MALAGA City Council

and the Respuesta Rápida group of volunteers have distributed nearly 800 tonnes of basic necessities to municipalities affected by DANA in Malaga and Valencia.

Over 1,500 volunteers from the province of Malaga participated in the collection, classification, shipment, and distribution of aid. The city of Malaga has collected over one million kilos of products and material from donations received, including bottled water, non-perishable food, cleaning products, pet food, and tools. More than 150 specialised council personnel have gone to the most affected areas, and the city council maintains open the telephone number 951 926 260 enabled to continue attending to the incidents of residents of Campanillas Malaga on No -

vember 21, 2024.

The Respuesta Rapida group has coordinated the collection and shipment of products and material from donations made by citizens in Maskom supermarkets, the city’s fire stations, 180 entities, NGOs, brotherhoods of Malaga and province, Malaga CF, and companies.

Out of the total of more than one million kilos of products collected during the cam -

paign, 320,000 litres of bottled water, 220,000 kilos of non-perishable food, 210,000 kilos of cleaning products, 1,800 kilos of animal food, 20,000 kilos of cleaning tools (shovels, boots, clothing, brushes, buckets, mops, etc), and 20,000 kilos of other material necessary for reconstruction work have already been delivered to the most affected by DANA in Malaga and Valencia.

Costa Christmas lights

Marc Menendez-Roche CHRISTMAS cheer is about to dazzle the Costa del Sol as towns across the area flip the festive switch on. From twinkling angels in Benalmadena to sparkling trees in Estepona, Christmastime magic is ready to shine.

This weekend, towns across the coast will press the button to illuminate their streets and squares, with children laughing, roasted chestnuts and Christmas cheer.

Here’s where and when you can catch the magic moment on Friday, November 29, in some of the Costa’s most-loved spots:

Mijas:

The lights go on the same evening at 6pm.

Fuengirola: Plaza de España hosts the ceremony at 7.30pm.

Benalmadena:

After a parade, the lights will brighten Plaza 3 Culturas at 6pm, with coastal areas like Plaza Solymar following at 7pm.

Estepona: El Paseíllo will glow from 7pm.

Torremolinos:

Costa del Sol square will dazzle from 8pm, accompanied by a performance from Pasión Vega.

Coin :

Add some sparkle to your Friday with lights and a toast of local wine at 6.45pm in Plaza Bermúdez de la Rubia. Christmas lights will shine from 6.30pm to midnight on weekdays, extending to 2am on weekends and festive eves. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, they’ll glow into the early hours, until 6am.

Whether it’s the angels of Calle Larios or a mulled wine toast in Mijas, Malaga’s festive season promises to light up your life this Christmas.

Malaga University volunteers.

Credit: Universidad de Málaga

Costa Christmas lights.

Credit: Shutterstock, Unai Huizi Photography

Vulture drops in

THE fauna of Malaga Province is, sometimes, forgotten among the treasures on offer to enjoy.

The wide diversity of creatures that are distributed throughout the mountains and forests occasionally come out of their usual habitats to pay us a visit.

Among the surprise visitors are some majestic creatures, such as the griffon vulture, one of which stopped by Mijas pueblo on Saturday, November 23, something no one was expecting.

The griffon vulture is a large bird of prey, and once it shows its imposing wingspan, it can reach two and a half metres across.

Although, its size perched on the ground (or a shop awning) slightly exceeds one metre in height (115 centimetres).

This close call with the huge bird is seen as a good omen for the area.

Vultures are social animals and live in close quarters with others of their species, so it is

thought there must be various others in the mountains that overlook the village of Mijas. They also tend to live for a long time, over 40 years in many cases.

Wolves, boars, the cat-like genet, snake eagles, and kites all coexist in the Sierra de Mijas overlooking the village, providing the vultures with an ample food supply. It’s not clear what in Mijas Pueblo caught the eye of this large bird of prey though.

Estepona Santa

Adam Woodward

SAINT Nicolas de Bari, one of the most eagerly awaited characters for the little ones, is due to arrive in Estepona. He will arrive by boat at the town’s marina Friday, December 6, around 12pm.

Full of Estepona tradition, Saint Nicolas will land along with his helpers, the Pedritos, and will be received by families and children who, as tradition dictates, will be dragging old cans on strings, much in the way some traditions tie old cans to the back of a wedding car.

While in the harbour, Saint Nicolas plans to collect all the letters of all the children of Estepona to see their wish lists for Christmas presents.

From here all the children follow Saint Nicolas to the chapel of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, in front of the Mirador de Estepona, where Saint Nicolas and the procession will pay homage to the Patroness of Estepona.

And after that, the tour continues through the streets of Este-

pona to Plaza Antonia Guerrero, at which time the little ones will deliver their letters to Saint Nicolas and show them their cans on strings.

The best one will receive a prize, followed by the Great Flamenco Zambomba, Christmas music with a special instrument most typically played at this time of year.

Griffon vulture in Mijas pueblo.

Saint Nicola arrives with his helpers.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING

DO you remember this children’s rhyme?

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat

Please put a penny in the old man’s hat

If you haven’t got a penny a halfpenny will do

If you haven’t got a halfpenny a farthing will do

If you haven’t got a farthing God bless you

Christmas IS coming and most of us want to help others

But what is the best way?

How can we really make a difference and not break the bank?

AGE CONCERN MARBELLA - SAN PEDRO have a solution

The Charity have launched their €10 a month Appeal

If you can spare €10 a month that would be wonderful

But really ANY amount will make an amazing difference

Or, you may prefer to make a one-off donation

In the children’s rhyme a penny would help ONE old man

But what if your donation could help 100s?

Well, it is possible with AGE CONCERN MARBELLA - SAN PEDRO

In our seven years we have helped over 600 people and counting

This is what YOUR donation will help us to do……..

Keep our Helpline open for EVERY weekday from 10 to 6pm

Enable us to provide FREE welfare advice, help and support

Maintain our Community Centre and add more social activities

Carry out more home visits fighting Loneliness and Isolation

Offer Companionship at home and all our local coffee mornings

Recruit and train more volunteers to help even more people

That’s what your donation will dohelping many not just one

It’s a simple process -

Step 1 go to our web page www.age concernmarbella.com

Step 2 Click on the Donate button

Step 3 Select the amount for your donation

To find out more please call or WhatsApp 689 355 198

Or email us at info@ageconcernmar bella.com

Merry Christmas from ALL of us at AGE CONCERN.

For the love of Susanhonouring decades of dedication

Adam Woodward

SUSAN HANNAM was commemorated in Benalmadena, Thursday, November 21, for her more than 30 years of service in offering palliative care to those in their last days on the Costa del Sol and for having received the Order of the British Empire medal for her dedication, initiative, and love.

Councillor Áurea Peralta González was one of the first of many to take the mic. “You Susan, you are Spanish now, a great woman. Susan knows how to listen, she knows how to understand, and she has never said a bad word against anyone.”

Susan took to the stage to sit in conversation with trustee Liz Parry BEM for an informal conversation in a mixed-up blend of Spanish and English - a bilingual soup reflecting Susan’s full integration into Spanish society.

Liz asked in Spanish if there was anyone in the auditorium who didn’t unders-

tand English. There were some umms and ahhs, but they continued mostly in English anyway.

“If you get involved with Joan Hunt, you have to get in there and dedicate yourself fully,” explained Susan. “She was the first Cudeca nurse to make home visits in English.

“We were the first palliative care-givers who could give comfort to those at the ends of their lives in English. And when you feel bad, receiving that attention in your own language gives something special.”

Susan also helped set up the first charity shop in Fuengirola. Liz pointed out that the hat Susan was wearing, the same she had worn on the day of receiving her OBE, was also a purchase from a Cudeca charity shop.

Congratulations, Susan Hannam of Cudeca. Your OBE, your recognition, is most deserved.

Susan Hannam with her OBE medal.

New reservoir

City of light

EMERGENCY works below the Guadalhorce River to help alleviate the drought have made a discovery. Through old wells abandoned in the 1990s, workers have discovered an enormous amount of flowing water.

Preliminary estimations suggest that there may be a flow of fresh water of up to 800 litres per second, plus another 400 litres per second below the Fahala river and Cartama. This could mean

there is an underground reservoir bigger than Casasola which provides water for Malaga City.

Despite the torrential rains of October and November, most of the runoff has already reached the reservoirs and still some water reserves remain at levels below that of the same time of year in 2023. Levels vary with the Guardalhorce reservoir at a mere 15 per cent of its capacity, and 67 per cent, in Casasola (Marbe-

Credit: andalucia.org

lla). The total combined of all of Malaga Province’s water reserves remain at just 28 per cent.

Drought has been plaguing Andalucia for decades and is showing signs of this being a new reality the population needs to adapt to. However, if the subterranean reservoir is confirmed, it could grant enough respite for part of the year ahead. Nonetheless, a good deal more rainfall is needed before next summer.

THE big switch-on of Malaga’s Christmas lights is going ahead on Friday, November 29. Calle Larios is the epicentre of this momentous light and music show, which draws people from all across the province to usher in the festive season.

For those planning to travel to Malaga to see the lights, make sure you arrive early to get the best spot, as the lighting ceremony coincides with Black Friday and payday for many in the city, and so those shopping streets are likely to be jam packed.

The precise time at which the switch will be flicked is 6.30pm. The provincial capital becomes one of the first Andalu-

cian cities to fire the starting gun to the holidays. Operators have been doing sound and light tests on this main artery of the capital, leaving all the fine details prepared for this show in which light and music come together. It is common to make a selection of Christmas carols that accompany these millions of LED bulbs that perform a ‘dance’.

As every year, from Saturday, November 30, the long-awaited light and music shows will begin on Calle Larios. Although all the details of the schedules are yet to be published, what is certain is that in the coming days Calle Larios will be one of the busiest streets in Andalucia.

Guardalhorce with Malaga in background.

Credit: Unai Huizi Photography

Christmas lights, Malaga.

Best shop window display

Adam Woodward MANILVA is preparing to celebrate the 20th year of the Christmas Window Display Contest, a traditional initiative that seeks to adorn the streets of the town with the magic and spirit of Christmas.

The registration period to participate in this contest will be open until Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Those interested can register their shop and bar windows in person at the Commerce Delegation, located in Calle Miguel Delibes Street 11, in the Sabinillas Multipurpose Building, or by sending their registration by email to the address comercio@ayto-manilva. com.

This year’s theme will be with the atmosphere of the Christmas holidays, allowing total freedom in terms of the technique and style that

participants choose to decorate their windows.

This creative approach aims to give free rein to the imagination and talent of local businesses, in order to create a unique festive environment for all residents and vi -

sitors to the town. Originality, creativity, and how much is produced with recycled

The rules of the contest are available for consultation on the bulletin board on Manilva Council’s online site.

Golden Mile protest

AFTER neighbourhood complaints about a project being developed in the old Aresbank building, on the Golden Mile in Marbella, the promoters, Grupo Mosh and Grupo Dani García, have come out to defend their project.

Developers want to maintain the external architecture of the emblematic building while converting it into a high-end restaurant ready to employ 200 people.

Locals have expressed their opposition to the plans which they describe as a massive night club in the Aresbank building changing the high-end residential district into an extension of Puerto Banus.

One local resident said, “One of the quietest and most familiar neighbourhoods of Marbella will be affected by the

rowdiness caused by this type of business.”

Three Michelin Star chef, Dani García and partners Grupo Mosh claim their goal is to ‘position Marbella as one of the highest national gastronomic destinations’ and to ‘give life to a new haute cuisine restaurant’, in one of the ‘most ambitious and largest’ projects in the city.

The investment is said to be more than €10 million in a project that they claim has ‘capital contribution by famous and influential partners with a high level of solvency in the world of elite sport and culture’.

The opening is scheduled for 2025 with ‘a new concept of catering and leisure, hand in hand with those who know the city best, its visitors and its potential.’

Best Christmas shop window.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mérida

Aresbank building Golden Mile.

Credit: Marbella for Business, FB

Mijas’ wild boars

HOW dangerous are Mijas’ wild boars?

Wild boarsonce confined to Spain’s rural heartlands - are now making their presence felt in urban areas, and Mijas, on the Costa del Sol, is facing the brunt of this growing threat. With wild boars roaming dangerously close to parks, playgrounds, and even busy roads, Mijas has found itself on the front lines of a nationwide crisis, one that’s pushing local authorities to take drastic action.

This surge in wild boar populations, seen not just in Mijas but across Spain, has sparked widespread concern. In 2023, a shocking wild boar attack in Navarra left two people seriously injured, bringing attention to the increasing risks posed by these animals. While attacks on humans remain rare, experts warn that wild boar encounters are becoming more frequent, with larger,

more aggressive males posing a particular danger.

Wild boars have already been involved in traffic accidents, and their presence in parks and playgrounds raises the risk of injury, particularly to young children. The boars’ droppings, scattered throughout urban areas, also pose a health risk, further compounding the problem.

Mijas took drastic action recently to deal with the growing menace of wild boars invading its urban areas, with a hefty €150,000 contract aimed at capturing and euthanising them.

With these creatures moving freely across boundaries, there are calls for a more serious, collaborative approach to wildlife management across local councils. After all, there’s no point if Mijas controls its wild boar population and the neighbouring towns don’t, boars don’t recognise municipal borders.

Fake fine scam

BE very careful if you find one of these papers on your car windshield. In fact, it would be better if you binned it all together.

There is a scam going around all of the Costa del Sol where these fake notices claim you have a parking fine. It tells the owner of the car to scan the QR to see the fine. However, it is completely fake, and by scanning the code, you could be conned into paying a fake fine and having your phone hacked.

Not only that, but anti-virus programs are detecting that the website the code directs one to is listed as a phishing site that can illegally gain data from your phone.

The fake fine reads in Spanish: ‘Vehicle in violation. You parked badly. To see your fine, scan the QR code.’

Currently, the police have not sent out many

warnings to local residents of the Costa del Sol; however, the Guardia Civil in Albacete has posted a tweet reading, ‘Very important. If this paper is left on the windscreen of your vehicle of a supposed fine, don’t even think about scanning the QR code. If you fall into the trap,

the bad guys will take control of your mobile phone.’

Also, the Local Police in Tenerife say ‘that document is not official, nor should it be given any validity.’

Always remember that no official notification in Spain uses QR codes in this way.

European wild boar about to attack in the Sierra de las Nieves in Malaga.

Credit: Shutterstock, Jesus Noguera photography

Fake fine left on car.

Luxury dune complex

AFTER eight years of back and forth planning, negotiations, and permit requests, the luxury hotel and high-end residential W complex in Marbella have been given the go-ahead.

All that remains is for the site to be prepared and construction to begin, something expected for early 2025. The preparation includes the official division of the land into plots, agreeing with the technicians of the city council for their presentation before the end of the year, and of course the ‘urbanisation’ of the land with streets, lighting, subterranean works such as electricity, gas, water, etc.

The processing of the project has encountered multiple pitfalls over

the more than eight years developers have been waiting, such as the unfavourable report issued by the Advisory Council in October 2023, so it suspended final approval due to deficiencies that had to do with the justification for a request for an exception to the rule of having to reserve 30 per cent of the land for social housing.

The project also includes the rehabilitation of a dune, separating the new luxury resort from a 150 metre stretch of beach with specially filtered sand so that no invasive species spread in the area. The idea is to create a ‘Cádiz beach in Marbella,’ without the wind, of course.

Bincredible! Fuengirola ‘smart bins’

FUENGIROLA has gone full eco-chic with the arrival of 14 brand-new ‘smart bins’ to tidy up the town while slashing waste collection costs. The futuristic waste warriors compact rubbish, send out a digital SOS when they’re full, and promise to reduce collection trips by a staggering 85 per cent.

The high-tech initiative, cost just under €70,000 to roll out. Local councillors Carmen Díaz, head of Cleaning Services, and Rosa Ana Bravo, deputy mayor of Los Boliches, reckon these bins are a game-changer for both the environment and council efficiency.

Ditching the traditional bins that fill up faster than a pub on quiz night, Fuengirola’s new additions will free up workers from the endless task of monitoring and emptying. Instead, the time

saved will go towards other city improvements.

Councillor Díaz said the scheme hits two birds with one stone: “It not only saves human resources but also keeps Fuengirola on track towards becoming a more sustainable town.”

If you think 14 bins are impressive, hold onto your recycling socks. Plans are already underway for 30 more

smart bins to be installed, gradually phasing out the old ones that fill up in the blink of an eye.

Fuengirola’s green dream team won’t stop here. As the town bins its outdated waste systems, it sets a shiny example for other Costa del Sol communities to follow.

From smarter streets to cleaner beaches, it seems Fuengirola has bin there, done that.

New Marriott W complex mock up.

Credit: Marriott Hotels

Bin there, done that: Fuengirola bins the old ways: New smart rubbish bins set to clean up the Costa.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola

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SPANISH police are on the hunt for thieves responsible for a heist involving the pilfering of 400 legs of the nation’s most esteemed ham just weeks before the festive holiday season.

These prized legs of Iberian acorn-fed ham are recognised as a culinary delicacy and bear the prestigious ‘Protected Designation of Origin Jabugo’ seal.

The theft occurred in the early hours of November 13, when criminals broke into Jamones Eíriz, a gourmet supplier located in southern Andalucia.

According to reports, the thieves absconded with roughly a third of the small family-run business’s stock, raising suspicions of it being an ‘inside job’, and involving around five people. While the hams are valued by weight, it is estimated that each stolen leg was worth €500, making the haul worth in excess of a whopping €200,000.

Ham heist

The devastation felt by the family-run business, which employs just 20 staff members - eight of whom are relativeswas made worse by the timing of the theft, given that it occurred so close to Christmas, one of the busiest periods for gourmet ham suppliers. Eíriz explained that the ham had been stored in an unusual location specifically to label it, further ad-

ding to the suspicion that the theft involved someone who knew about their business practices. Jamones Eíriz has taken to social media to alert their customers and the broader community about the theft, and to advocate for vigilance when purchasing gourmet products, encouraging consumers to be mindful of who they buy from.

Gourmet ham is a big seller at Christmas.

SPAIN HAS SOMETHING TO OFFER FOR EVERYONE.

Do you think Spain is the best country for tourists?

SPAIN has long been celebrated for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm weather, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe each year. Whether you like busy, bustling cities or calm, serene beaches, Spain has something to offer for every traveller. For this reason, in 2023 alone, Spain welcomed over 85 million foreign visitors, and is already on track to break that record by the end of 2024.

Recently two Spanish villages were recognised among the World’s Best Tourism Villages 2024 by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). This prestigious list highlights Ainsa, Huesca, and Mura, Barcelona, alongside other charming villages, as exceptional examples of sustainable and culturally rich tourism.

In order to create their list, the UNWTO evaluates nine key criteria, including tourism development, cultural and natural resources, and economic sustainability. But what really makes a country the perfect holiday destination? We asked our readers their thoughts, and whether they think Spain is the best country for tourists.

Angela Edgley, an ex-travel agent, says yes, citing a “massive choice of destinations... excellent choice of hotels or self-catering,” and “interesting excursions” as reasons, and adding that she later relocated here.

Brian Clarke agrees, mentioning other factors such as “the best beer in the world” and “great historical sites.”

Karen Joy Harley is also of the view that Spain is a great country for tourists, making the strong comparison that “if the garden of Eden was a place on Earth today Spain would be it.”

On the other hand, Sheree Ruiz notes that there isn’t an objective way to answer this question, as “... no two people would agree on the order of a list of the best countries to visit,” raising the point that everyone has different likes and needs, and therefore different criteria for the best place to visit.

Other readers, such as Adda Macchich and Peter MacGregor are of the view that it is not possible to make this judgement unless you have “visited most of the world’s destinations.”

Among very few negative comments, Michael Whitwell mentions that the only negative for him is that “the airports are not prepared for the influx of people through border control,” which is certainly an inconvenience to tourists but also supports the idea of Spain’s popularity among visitors.

Overall, there seems to be a general agreement among our readers that, while it can be difficult to decide which is the best country of all for tourists, Spain undeniably has something to offer for everyone.

Best Tourism Villages Love on the Loop

THE United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has unveiled its Best Tourism Villages 2024, recognising 55 rural destinations worldwide that champion sustainable tourism and community development.

This year, two picturesque

Spanish villages, have joined this prestigious list:

Ainsa, Aragon

Located in the Aragonese Pyrenees, Ainsa is a medieval treasure of a town. Known for its cobblestone streets, arcaded Plaza Mayor, and the imposing castle, Ainsa is a gateway to natu-

ral wonders like the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park. Visitors can explore its Romanesque Church of Santa María and the surrounding Sobrarbe region, rich in heritage and outdoor activities.

Mura, Catalonia

Just 60 kilometres from Barcelona, Mura offers an idyllic escape into Catalonia’s rural heart.

Located near the Sant Llorenç de Munt i l’Obac Natural Park, this small yet charming village boasts medieval streets, stone houses, and the serene Gorg del Pare waterfall. Mura also celebrates its cultural traditions with the Tió Festival, a unique Catalan Christmas event that enchants visitors during the festive season.

Spain has become a leader in sustainable rural tourism, with 12 villages now part of the UNWTO network.

Alongside Ainsa and Mura, villages like Morella (Castellon), Rupit (Barcelona), and Cantavieja (Teruel) have received accolades in previous years.

ARE you thinking about getting married or entering a registered partnership?

The city of Amsterdam is offering a unique opportunity for couples to tie the knot on the A10 ring road while it’s car-free during the Op de Ring festival on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

This event is part of the celebrations for Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary.

Couples interested in getting married on the Ring can apply by filling out a form at amster dam750.nl/trouwenopd ering before December 1, 2024.

For the occasion, part

of the A10 ring road will be designated as an official wedding location. Ceremonies will be free of charge and conducted by Amsterdam’s official registrars in either Dutch or English.

If there is more interest than available slots, a notary will conduct a draw to select the couples, with the results announced in early 2025.

The Op de Ring festival itself will turn 15 kilometres of the A10 into a space for music, sport, theatre, dance, and more. On Friday evening, June 20, 2025, the West, South, and East sections of the Ring (between the A5 and A1 exits) will close after rush hour. On Saturday, the inner ring will host the festival throughout the day and evening, while the outer ring remains open for emergency services. Cleanup will begin on Sunday, and the Ring will reopen before the Monday morning rush hour.

Tying the knot on the ring road.

Olive oil price drop

ACCORDING to Spain’s Deoleo, prices will be plummeting back down to half of their all-time high price in the coming months.

The world’s largest olive oil producer, Deoleo now plans to cut prices following a period of sky high costs for this household staple. Prices had been hiked up due to a mix of climate change-related drought, which had affected harvests, as well as being affected by high interest rates and inflation.

Not only had this affected Spain, but also Europe. In the EU, prices were up by 50 per cent in January and in the UK, there had been a rise in prices of 150 per cent when compared with 2021.

Spain produces half of the world’s olive oil meaning that price hikes and reductions

always come down to its climate conditions and subsequent harvest.

The country has suffered consecutive years of drought, which has caused limited olive harvests and obliged major companies including Deoleo which owns Bertolli and Carbonell to increase prices. However, now Deoleo is saying that it expects a much more promising

harvest for the 20242025 season.

Prices are expected to fall at least for generic olive oils to half the price of record levels. Guzmán commented: “The relaxation of prices at origin is expected to begin between November, December and January, provided that weather and harvest conditions remain stable in the coming weeks.”

Olive oil prices set to drop significantly across Spain and the EU.

Credit:Shutterstock:Dusan Petkovic

Toy Show Day

IRELAND’S most beloved annual event, The Late Late Toy Show, is back –and this year, it’s bigger than ever. With the official release of the show’s trailer, fans are gearing up for a day dedicated entirely to the magic of toys, laughter, and festive cheer. This year’s theme is clear: Toy Show Day isn’t confined to the evening broadcast. It’s a day-long celebration of childhood wonder and Irish spirit.

In the trailer, host Patrick Kielty stars in a comedic scene at ‘Campaign HQ’, rallying his team to secure official recognition for the day. The team makes their way to the Department of Christmas to ensure that the message lands in the right hands. “Forget about bedtime, ban the broccoli, and stockpile the sweets - the kids are in charge on Toy Show Day!” exclaims Kielty in the trailer. The message is clear: Toy Show Day is for everyone, whether young or young at heart. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 6, as this year’s Toy Show promises to deliver the magic and chaos viewers have come to adore. Here’s what’s on the agenda: For the first time, children from every

county in Ireland will take part in a spectacular parade, celebrating their local heritage and showcasing Ireland’s diversity.

As always, viewers can expect moments of hilarity as children steal the show, often going delightfully off-script. Fans can look forward to the signature blend of laughter, chaos, and the occasional on-air mishap, making the event feel as authentic and unscripted as ever.

For generations, The Late Late Toy Show has been a cherished Irish institution, bringing families together for an evening of joy.

This year, the declaration of Toy Show Day ensures that the festivities last from morning to night. With pyjamas ready, tubs of sweets in hand, and hearts full of anticipation, families across Ireland are preparing to celebrate in style.

ONE thing that is certain is that if you live in Finland there will be plenty of snow falling during the winter season.

The main problem of snow that hasn’t melted is in the capital Helsinki and the city council has for years organised for the snow to be collected and dumped into the Baltic Sea.

According to reports, between 25 and 45 per cent of all snow collected from Helsinki roads are currently dumped into the sea around the area of Hernesaari which during the winter period sees some 230,000 cubic metres of snow being deposited.

If it was just snow, there wouldn’t be such a problem but when scraped from the roads, it includes gravel, general waste and even microplastic, all of which can create

Only one Kinder boy Dumping snow

MATTEO FARNETI, the face of Kinder between 2004 and 2019, finds himself compelled to reclaim his identity.

In an interview with Corriere di Bologna, the 31-year-old from Bologna expressed his indignation at having to repeatedly justify his identity as the blue-eyed boy featured on the packaging of Kinder chocolate bars.

The Bolognese model highlighted the controversy surrounding Alessandro Egger, a fellow model and actor who is

pollution.

The Finnish government has therefore come up with a plan that calls for the total banning of dumping of snow by March 2028 which has the council up in arms as the Helsinki Council called for the prohibition of dumping of the snow by 2033, a full five years later.

The problem is trying to work out where to put the snow that is cleared in order to allow traffic to flow smoothly and safely throughout the city.

One option is to dump it in parks across Helsinki but that certainly wouldn’t look attractive and another option is to simply let it pile up at the edge of roads, but that then narrows the space for vehicles and could be a potential problem for pedestrians.

currently a contestant on the Italian television show La Talpa. Egger posted a photo on Instagram of himself holding a Kinder chocolate bar bearing Farneti’s image.

The post gained significant media attention, and Egger failed to deny the resulting assumptions he was the child on the packaging.

Farneti’s outrage is understandable. He contends that if others truly claim to be the ‘Kinder child,’ they should produce their own images rather than misusing his.

Farneti has spoken out because he is weary of such misrepresentations, which have impacted not only his private life - where he has faced accusations of dishonesty - but also his professional life, as they undermine his credibility in other advertising campaigns similar to Kinder’s.

To prove his identity, Farneti shared a video on his Facebook page in which he is interviewed by Kinder Cioccolato, where he reflects on his experience as Kinder boy.

Snow ploughs could simply create huge piles at the edge of roads.

An expat guide on scattering ashes in Spain

AFTER losing a loved one, for many, scattering their ashes is a tender and meaningful way to honour their memory, say goodbye and find closure.

For expats living in Spain who are making funeral plans, it’s important to understand the legalities and cultural nuances of this heartfelt ritual. Should you wish to get cremated, you might have wishes in place of where your ashes will be scattered. However, your family and loved ones need to understand where in Spain they are allowed to scatter the ashes.

This straightforward yet sensitive guide is designed to help you understand the requirements and options for scattering ashes in Spain, allowing you to focus on planning a fond farewell.

Is it legal to scatter ashes in Spain?

In short, yes, it is legal to scatter ashes in Spain, but there are certain regulations in place to protect public spaces. Spain has guidelines about where ashes can and can’t be scattered, particularly in popular and protected areas. Before you scatter ashes, it’s es -

sential to seek permission from local authorities if you’re planning to scatter them in a public place, such as a park, beach or mountain.

Where can and can’t you scatter ashes in Spain?

- Beaches and coastal areas: Many people wish to scatter ashes along Spain’s scenic coastlines. Howe -

ver, permission from the local council is typically required. Ensure you contact the local town hall (ayuntamiento) in the area where you plan to scatter the ashes - they will inform you of the correct procedure.

- Mountains and countryside: The Spanish countryside and mountainous regions can provide a peaceful setting for scattering ashes. As with coastal areas, permission from local authorities is often needed. Nature reserves and historic sites may have restrictions, so check if a special permit is needed.

- Private property: Scattering ashes on private land is generally allowed, but always seek the property owner’s permission first.

The Spanish government places importance on preserving the natural beau -

ty of its public spaces, so please do not leave urns or other items behind. Be mindful that public beaches and parks are shared spaces, and scattering ashes discreetly is respectful to others.

How Compare Funerals Spain can help with scattering ashes

If you’re looking for guidance on scattering ashes in Spain, Compare Funerals Spain offers professional assistance.

They can help you understand local regulations and coordinate with authorities to make sure everything is handled respectfully and correctly. Their English-speaking team is knowledgeable about Spain’s regional requirements, making the process easier for you during a difficult time.

DENMARK’S Environment Minister, Magnus Heunicke, has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at addressing the growing issue of groundwater flooding.

Currently in the public consultation phase, the idea seeks to shift responsibility for flood prevention from individual property owners to a more collaborative approach involving wastewater management com-

Denmark’s flooding prevention

panies and municipalities.

Under the new proposal, municipalities will be required to identify areas at risk of flooding.

Wastewater management companies would then be legally obliged to implement solutions such as sufficient drainage systems to reduce or prevent flooding in these areas.

Denmark faces increasing challenges from rising groundwater levels, which experts attribute to changing weather patterns, climate change, and more frequent torrential rain.

“Groundwater levels are also rising, creating problems for property owners in affected areas whose foundations and ba-

sements are being flooded from below,” Heunicke explained in a statement shared by The Local.

The proposal outlines financing options for water management companies to ensure they can meet their new obligations.

The public consultation phase for the bill will remain open until early January 2025, with

parliamentary readings expected to follow. If approved, the measures will be implemented by summer 2025.

For expats and residents across Denmark, the proposal offers a glimpse of how the country is adapting to the realities of climate change, ensuring greater protection for homes and properties in the years ahead.

Singer loses extradition battle

ROKIA TRAORE, an award-winning Malian singer-songwriter, will soon be extradited to Belgium.

Italy’s Court of Cassation authorised her extradition on November 20, following the 50-year-old celebrity’s arrest on landing at Rome’s Fiumicino airport on June 20, prior to giving a concert outside the Colosseum.

Traore, one of Africa’s most popular vocalists, was sentenced to two years in prison by a court in Belgium in October 2023 after a battle with her former partner, Belgian playwright and director Jan Goossens, over custody of their nine-year-old daughter.

The couple separated in 2018 and since then have been in conflict over the child, who habitually lives with her mother in Mali.

Nor was this the first time the singer was de -

tained regarding the ongoing custody war.

She was initially arrested in France in 2020 on an earlier Belgian arrest warrant after ignoring a court order to hand over her daughter to her estranged former partner.

On this occasion she was released on agreeing to comply with certain conditions. Instead, she flew back to Mali and her daughter by private jet some months later.

Following confirmation of Traore’s extradition, her lawyer maintained that the singer was the victim of an injustice.

Jan Goossens lawyer, Sven Mary, insisted that Rokia Traore’s rights had always been respected by Belgium’s justice system although she had denied the child any contact with her father or his family for more than five-anda-half years.

ROKIA TRAORE: One of Africa’s best-known vocalists.

Photo credit: CC/Erik (HASH) Hersman

Let our lives be full of both thanks and giving!

The Americans on the Costa del Sol celebrate Thanksgiving!

FROM COAST TO COAST

THANKSGIVING on the Costa del Sol is more than just a holiday; it’s an elegant celebration of gratitude, generosity, and a dash of humour. For over 20 years, Americans and their international friends have gathered in Marbella, Andalucia, to celebrate this uniquely American tradition with a distinctly Spanish flair.

Though Thanksgiving’s origins are often traced to Plymouth in 1621, historian Michael Gannon proposes the first real feast of thanks took place 56 years earlier in Florida, when Spanish explorers shared a meal with the Timucua people. Wherever it started, Thanksgiving is about more than just the food - it’s about the values of generosity, unity, and appreciation that transcend time and borders.

Henry Ward Beecher captured it perfectly when he said: “There is one day that is ours. Thanksgiving Day is the one day that is purely American.” In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, and in 1941, Congress made it official. Since then, this day has become synonymous with reflecting on life’s blessings and giving thanks for them - whether it’s for family, friends, or that extra slice of pumpkin pie.

This year, the American International Club of Marbella hosted a Thanksgiving feast that combined tradition with the warmth of this vibrant community. Marbella, a melting pot of cultures, was the perfect backdrop for an evening of shared gratitude

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and laughter. Among the distinguished guests were Doña Remedios Bocanegra, Marbella’s Foreigners’ Department councillor, and Oti García, Foreigners’ Department representative, whose presence served as a reminder of the strong ties between Marbella’s international community and the local authorities. Also in attendance were Milagros Hoffmeier, Vice President of the Club, and Lucca Movaldi, President of the Club, whose leadership ensures this tradition continues year after year.

The evening was a feast in every sense - traditional turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, complemented by conversations that made everyone feel right at home, no matter where they were from.

For the American expats in Marbella, Thanksgiving is not just about indulging in a hearty meal - it’s about honouring the Spanish community that has welcomed them with open arms. It’s a chance to express gratitude and give back to those who’ve made them feel like part of the family.

Thanksgiving serves as a gentle reminder that it’s not just about one day - it’s about living each day with thanks and generosity. Let’s carry that spirit of appreciation forward, embracing kindness and building stronger connections in our global village.

And now, for a little post-dinner humour:

‘What do the universe and your waistline after Thanksgiving dinner have in common?’

‘They’re both expanding!’

So, here’s to a festive holiday, a heart full of thanks, and a waistline that’s definitely been stretched by a little extra love (and turkey).

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When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

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

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

LUCCA MOVALDI

PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

DENMARK

Above board

THE medicinal cannabis programme introduced as a pilot scheme in 2018 could be made permanent following its increased use for pain relief. The Interior and Health ministry said the government wanted patients to continue using medicinal cannabis without having to acquire it on the illegal market.

Bad vibes

FREJA KIRK, singer and an LGBT role model, met homophobic abuse when she performed at an Odense school where, amongst other things pupils called her a freak. “There was a bad vibe and bad energy among some of them,” the singer said afterwards. “It makes me disappointed and sad for young people.”

PORTUGAL

Filling up

THE six reservoirs and dams that provide the Algarve’s water were at 34 per cent capacity by November 18, following recent rainfall, Portugal’s Environment Agency (APA) said. Between them they hold approximately 154 cubic hectometres of water, which equates to 35 per cent of the needs of tourism and urban areas.

Homes needed

ONLY 4.1 per cent of the 6,446 Portuguese children who are in care live with foster families, and their ages generally range from newborns to nine-year-olds. The government now hopes to ‘make great strides’ in reducing the number of children of all ages in institutional care by finding more foster homes for them.

ITALY

No slowdown

FIFTY-ONE per cent of Italians told a survey by ANAS, which manages the country’s motorways and main roads that they did not believe driving over the speed limit was dangerous. ANAS chief executive Aldo Isi said these figures highlighted the need for more investment in road education and awareness.

Climate clues

ITALY came 43rd out of 63 countries on the latest Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) presented at the COP29 Conference in Baku. This was better than last year when Italy was ranked 44th but despite a medium rating for greenhouse gas emissions, it lost out on renewable energy and climate policy.

EURO PRESS

SWEDEN

Speak up

LAID-OFF workers from the Northvolt plant that makes batteries for electric vehicles in Skelleftea are flocking to the free Swedish for Immigrants courses organised by the municipality. Many of those made redundant are immigrants now hoping to boost their chances of finding work by speaking better Swedish.

NORTHVOLT FACTORY: Mass layoffs as demand drops for EV batteries.

IRELAND FINLAND

Barely shaken

THE Irish National Seismic Network (INSN) registered a mild 1.6 earthquake northeast of Brandon (County Cork) at 5.50am on November 19. It was only one kilometre below the surface and some locals reported noting the tremor, which was described as ‘unusual’ for Co Cork where seismic activity is rare.

Jobs record

IRELAND’S employment figures are rising, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) revealed, with 73 per cent of the 15 to 64 age group working in the third quarter of 2024. With approximately 2.8 million people in jobs, this was 1.1 percentage points more than during the same period in 2023, the CSO said.

Game on

THE video game industry in Finland has developed from a few small operators 30 years ago to a multimillion industry that is one of Europe’s largest. Figures from Statista Finland show that in 2019 the sector was worth $185.74 million (€177.1 million) but will soar 91 per cent to $356.49 million (€339.9 million) by 2029.

Game over

FINLAND has recorded its highest number of corporate bankruptcies so far this century, with 2,700 companies declaring themselves insolvent by the beginning of November and overtaking 2023’s record number of 2,681 bankruptcies. Small businesses that have a turnover of less than €199,000 were the most affected.

BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

Try again

THE Sint-Joost-ten-Node municipal elections on October 13 were declared invalid as the current mayor Emir Kir has been accused of electoral fraud. As proxy votes at two of the town’s 12 polling stations were untraceable and another 226 proxy forms had errors, it is likely voters will have to go to the polls once more.

Still there

A GOLD tooth, all that remains of Patrice Lumumba, was not stolen from his mausoleum in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s capital, as previously feared. Lumumba, assassinated by Katangan separatists in 1961, was responsible for transforming the Belgian Congo into an independent nation.

Not here

SPOT checks on 115,000 people by border police between January and the end of October this year prevented 497 illegal entries at frontier crossings with Germany and Belgium. An additional 628 people who were stopped in vehicles went on to request asylum in the Netherlands, police statistics revealed.

Out of order

NONE of the lifts at 10 of Amsterdam’s 38 metro stations are working and are now totally inaccessible to wheelchair users, according to the NH Niews and local television station AT 5. The city’s public transport company GVB agreed that there was a problem and said they were waiting for spare parts for the lifts.

Pedal off

CYCLISTS are increasingly unpopular in France and are accused of treating other road users with contempt, especially in Paris where mayor Anne Hidalgo is reproached for favouring them. In contrast, the French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) claim cyclists are “routinely subjected to motorised violence.”

Enduring links

EMMANUEL MACRON finished his Latin American tour in Chile where he visited the Santiago home of the late poet and Nobel prizewinner Pablo Neruda, emphasising his links to France. The connection was political as well as literary, the President said, since France was both a refuge and a platform for Neruda.

GERMANY FRANCE

Bomb-proof

ENVIRONMENTALISTS opposed to extending Tesla’s Gruneheide plant were moved from their camp by police who explained that they needed to verify there were no more unexploded bombs in the area after two were found there last summer. Once pronounced safe, the activists could return, police said.

Pay cut offer

CRISIS-HIT Volkswagen, which hopes to save €18 billion by shutting down three sites worldwide, is also planning staff reductions, prompting its German employees to offer a cut in their salaries to avoid redundancies. Should this fail, the union that represents them warned they would take industrial action.

NORWAY

Pay attention

THE number of boys in the 13-17 age group taking medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has grown from 2 per cent to 5.5. per cent since 2004, Norway’s Institute of Public Health (NIPH) figures showed. The NIPH attributed the rise to growing awareness and improved diagnostic methods.

Metro mayhem

MODERNISING Oslo’s busy Majorstuen station, a new signalling system and completing the new Fornebu line will disrupt the metro system in 2025, public transport provider Ruter announced. “There will be detours and replacement buses on different sections throughout much of next year,” Ruter warned.

Photo credit: CC/Anders Utbult

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Fusion promise

PIONEERING British nuclear fusion company, Tokamak, has raised £99 million (€118.8 million) from investors who include the fund that manages the wealth of Italy’s billionaire Agnelli family. Tokamak believes that within 10 years, a pilot plant could be producing almost unlimited amounts of clean electricity.

Strike looms

MORE than 100,000 meat packing employees intend to strike on December 4 and 5 unless unions and the sector’s business owners can decide on working conditions. The unions said they hoped the employers would seize “every chance” to agree terns if they wished to avoid conflict throughout the sector.

West End rents

LONDON’S New Bond Street, where rentals cost £14,384 (€17,210) per square metre, is now the world’s third-most expensive shopping street. Only Via Monte Napoleone in Milan, followed by Upper Fifth Avenue in New York, are more expensive according to US global estate agents, Cushman and Wakefield.

Foreign aid

OF 515,000 jobs created over the past year, 211,000 went to non-Spanish personnel. Representing 13.6 per cent of Spain’s workforce, foreign wage earners constituted 41 per cent of all new employees and also account for more than 15 per cent of workers in 20 Spanish provinces, Social Security figures showed.

Not for sale

LUXURY handbag maker Mulberry is slashing 85 of its 350 head office jobs following a dip of almost 20 per cent in half-year sales. In October company rejected a £111 million (€133 million) offer from 37 per cent shareholder, Frasers Group, after major shareholder, Challice, said it had no interest in selling.

STAT OF WEEK

investment by Spanish power company Endesa between 2024 - 2027 as it focuses on upgrading and expanding its networks and cutting back on renewable projects.

New role for Sharon White

DAME SHARON WHITE, who made an early exit from John Lewis last September, has been engaged to head Canada’s public and semi-public pension fund ma nager in Europe.

White begins her new role at Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (CDPQ) in January 2025, replacing David Morley who reti red as CDPQ’s European chief in April.

In an internal memo that was first disclosed by Bloomberg, Marc-Andre Blanchard, executive vice-president of CDPQ Global, said that White’s “expertise and collaborative approach” would boost the fund’s ambitions for growth in the UK and Europe.

The Canadian fund opened an office in London, its regional headquarters for Europe, in 2016 but moved to larger premises in 2023. In the same memo,

Blanchard pointed out that Britain was the fund’s “largest investment destination” outside Canada and

POWER company Iberdrola issued AUS$750 million (€460) in green bonds on November 19.

This has made Iberdrola the first non-financial Spanish company to carry out a “kangaroo” transaction, where a foreign company issues bonds in Australian dollars.

In Iberdrola’s case, these were green bonds that are earmarked for environmentally-friendly projects.

The Iberdrola bonds, which were 2.8 times over-subscribed, were issued in two tranches of AUS$350 million (€215 million) for a six-year term and AU$400 million (€245 million) for 10 years.

Clear as water

SEVERN TRENT WATER’S half-year profits tripled to £192 million (€230.4 million) despite not meeting water quality standards.

The company, which provides water for 4.7 million customers in an area between Bristol, mid-Wales and the Humber, said it expected to be penalised for failings at Strensham (Worcestershire).

A Severn Trent spokesperson predicted a “significant improvement” in water quality in 2025, thanks to the company’s “biggest ever” ultraviolet disinfection process.

By the end of 2023, CDPQ’s UK investments, which include stakes in the First Hydro Company as well as Eurostar and Heathrow, totalled C$34 billion (€23 billion).

White stepped aside as the John Lewis Partnership chair after revealing in October 2023 that she would leave the post at the end of her five-year term in February 2025. The announcement came shortly after she admitted that her turnaround plans for the Partnership would take another two years to complete and cost

In fact she left in September this year to make way for Jason Tarry, Tesco’s former chief executive who was brought in to complete the recovery that White, previous chief executive at communications regulator Ofcom, failed to pull off.

Iberdrola down under

Not enough

GRIFOLS said on November 19 that Canadian investment fund Brookfield’s takeover bid “significantly” undervalued its prospects and long-term potential.

The Barcelona-based pharmaceutical company said Brookfield’s €10.50 offer for every Grifols ‘A’ share, and €7.62 per ‘B’ share, put a too-low value of €6.45 billion on the company.

Following a board meeting, Grifols announced after the market closed on November 19 that it would not recommend that shareholders accepted an offer “at the indicated price.”

Brookfield and the Grifols family had, until now, intended to take the company private after the company lost 30 per cent of its market value following attacks from short-seller Gotham City Research in January and March.

AVIVA, one of the UK’s largest pension funds, has lost £368 million (€441.5 million) on ‘disastrous’ incinerator power plant investments.

The power plants were designed to run on biomass waste wood, but later converted to burn household waste.

The Guardian reported despite pouring ‘millions’ into three power plants in Hull, Boston and Barry (Wales) and after months of criticism from individual shareholders, Aviva is putting them into administration.

An Aviva source said the technology “posed significant challenges” that would require more investment to solve.

PETROINEOS, which owns Scotland’s sole oil refinery, rejected a US consortium’s approach only months before it is due to close.

Iberdrola’s Australian operation arrived less than a month after posting a net profit of €5.47 billion for the first nine months of 2024, with predicted growth of 14 per cent for the entire year.

As well as its eurozone operations, the Bilbao-based multinational headed by Ignacio Sanchez Galan has this year carried out transactions in Switzerland, the UK, Norway and now Australia, the only European utility company to do so.

Changed tactics

IN April, BBVA proposed an €11 billion takeover bid for all Sabadell shares which the Catalan bank rejected.

By May, the bid had turned hostile although Bilbao-headquartered BBVA still insists that from its point of view the offer remains friendly.

Following a media advertising campaign and accusations between both banks, BBVA is taking a more moderate approach, and now stresses how both banks would be able to face sustainability and technological challenges together.

Meanwhile Deutsche Bank analysts predict that BBVA will add another €2 billion to its offer, stating that it doubted the present offer had little chance of success.

According to Sky News, the consortium led by Robert McKee, a US energy industry expert includes The Canal Group and Trading Stack, a commodities trader based in the Middle East.

Sources close to the offer revealed that Petroineos, which is 50 per cent owned by Ineos, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s petrochemicals empire, intends to convert the 100-year-old Grangemouth installation into an import terminal for processed fuels.

CAIXABANK announced its 2025-2027 plans for maintaining profitability despite falling interesting rates affecting Europe’s banks. Spain’s biggest high street lender announced it expects its return on tangible equity (ROTE) to average 15 per cent over the next three years, anticipating “solid economic growth” to boost revenue and compensate for lower interest rates.

Although this is below its 16.9 per cent third-quarter ROTE, CaixaBank calculates this will have risen above 16 per cent by 2027.

IBERDROLA: Green bond issue in Australia for Bilbao-based companhy

SHARON WHITE: Appointed head of CDPQ in Europe.

3I Group 3.563,00 3.586,00 3.560,00 28,06K Admiral Group 2.455,0 2.456,0 2.438,0 5,91K

Airtel Africa 98,39 98,45 97,00 166,52K

Anglo American 2.368,5 2.381,0 2.360,0 57,34K

Antofagasta 1.683,50 1.699,00 1.683,50 28,03K

Ashtead Group 6.254,0 6.300,0 6.244,0 41,83K

Associated British Foods 2.189,0 2.196,0 2.182,0 28,02K AstraZeneca 10.223,3 10.230,0 10.140,0 108,86K Auto Trader Group Plc 817,60 820,00 814,00 52,5K Aviva 487,61 487,80 486,28 161,3K

B&M European Value Retail SA 347,10 348,70 340,60 375,43K

BAE Systems 1.326,29 1.332,00 1.323,25 338,74K Barclays 259,10 264,80 258,55 3,25M

Barratt Developments 408,40 409,10 405,00 154,17K Beazley 777,50 785,50 771,50 25,77K

Berkeley 4.338,0 4.340,0 4.258,0 11,53K

BP 391,45 394,90 390,95 2,43M British American Tobacco 2.936,7 2.937,0 2.928,6 129,82K

BT Group 149,73 149,73 148,35 1,15M Bunzl 3.480,0 3.486,0 3.466,0 11,9K Centrica 124,89 124,91 123,70 607,37K

16,23K

2.629,00 2.636,00 2.626,00 146,19K

Group 231,00 232,60 230,80 153,7K

Intl 3.510,0 3.521,0 3.488,0 8,14K

5.630,0 5.645,0 5.610,0 12,36K

2.363,8 2.368,0 2.348,5 128,34K

19,98K

743,50 745,00 738,00 8,35K

657,50 658,30 655,00 45,66K

BUSINESS

EXTRA

On track

SPAIN’S publicly-owned engineering company Ineco increased its presence in Morocco with a €2.275 million railway design project in partnership with local company

CID. This was Ineco’s third Moroccan contract this year, making the region its principal market outside Spain.

Light up

OFGEM ordered German power company

E.ON to pay its UK prepayment customers

£14.5 million (€17.4 million) in compensation after billing failures between early 2021 and late 2023. The UK’s energy regulator said that approximately 250,000 households would receive an average of £144 (€172.80).

Lidl GB is back in profit

LIDL GB reported pretax profits of £43.6 billion (€52.3 billion) for the year ending February 29, 2024.

The German-owned discounter, which a year ago announced losses of £75 million (€90 million) saw revenue soar by approximately 17 per cent to £10.9 billion (€13 billion) as it slowed expansion to concentrate on upgrading existing stores.

Only one new store opened last year, compared with 45 in 2022-2023 although

Patchy debut

SHARES in clean energy and water treatment company Cox, which debuted on the Spanish stock exchange on November 15, have recovered from initial setbacks.

Opening at €10.24, slightly above the Cox shares’ €10.23 reference price that gave the company a market value of €805 million, they fell within minutes to €9.86 with more than one million transactions that day.

According to insiders, the disappointing performance was due to market concerns regarding renewable energy following Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election.

By close of day on November 18 the Cox shares closed at €10.22, a 7.58 per cent improvement according to Bolsas y Mercados Españoles (BME), which organises activities on Spain’s stock exchanges.

the company plans to open 18 in the coming months and 40 more next year.

On November 20 the group, now on the point of overtaking Morrisons as Britain’s fifth-largest supermarket, released figures showing that the chain gained 300,0000 new shoppers and 60 per cent of UK households visited a Lidl store at least once over the previous 12 months.

Lidl’s strongest growth came from fresh produce, where sales increased by 22 per cent, while baked items also rose, making the discounter the second largest retailer in that category ahead of Asda and Morrisons.

“We’ve come a long way since we opened our first stores here 30 years ago,” Lidl GB’s chief executive Ryan McDonnell said. “From stocking jars of frankfurters, over twothirds of our products are now sourced from British suppliers.”

Yes to STC

MADRID will approve the state-backed Saudi Arabian STC Group’s acquisition of a 9.9 per cent Telefonica stake and a seat on the board. As the deal involved a holding of more than 5 per cent by a foreign investor, and because Telefonica is of strategic importance owing to its telecoms, industrial and Defence contracts, government consent was required.

Car deals

SANTANDER UK has allocated £295 million (€354 million) to cover possible payouts to customers who took out car loans without knowing that the bank was paying commission to car dealers. The provision affected the bank’s pre-tax third-quarter profits, which fell to £143 million (€171.6 million) compared with £413 million (€495.8 million) in the second quarter.

LIDL GB: Two-thirds of products sourced from British suppliers.

Doggy in a well

IT was a pleasant early winter evening when a medium sized dog and its owner were out for a walk near the Belgium village of Alsemberg.

The dog had been let off its lead and like so many curious canines, it was running around exploring and enjoying all of the smells and messages left by other dogs.

Suddenly it disappeared into the undergrowth and then there was quite a noise as it fell eight-metres into the bottom of a hidden dry well.

Seeing that the dog appeared in reasonable condition after its unexpected fall, the owner immediately contacted the local Fire Brigade to explain what happened and to ask for help.

Officers arrived soon after and looking down the shaft of the well they could see that the dog

was standing and didn’t appear stressed which gave them hope that this would be an easy rescue.

One officer was strapped to a harness and winched down into the well, picking the dog up in his arms and then returning to the surface with the dog safely.

After checking the dog for injuries it was clear

that it was quite happy and suffered no damage from the experience, so an hour after the dog fell down the well the owner and pet set off for home.

Having been alerted to this potentially dangerous open well, the local council took immediate steps to cover it in order to ensure no further problems.

A Christmas present

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

THIS morning whilst walking on the promenade I saw an older gentleman sitting alone at a table up ahead. As I walked passed and heard his tone of voice and saw his face I realised he was talking on a videocall with probably a grandchild. I know that feeling well and very much enjoyed sharing in his moment and watching his delight.

Many ‘nanas’ that live on the coast depend on some sort of visual connection with their grandchildren; mine live close by and yet when my eldest, at six, takes it upon herself to FaceTime me just to have a chat, it’s like going to therapy, all the cares of the world just disappear. Pure happiness really can come from something that simple.

Later on, whilst sitting and having a coffee near the supermarket I watched two children, probably four and five years old, with their father, learning how to cross a small side road to get to the park.

Their serious little faces were so cute as they looked one way then the other,

Boy made people smile too.

then at daddy, until they were sure it was safe to cross. Once they did so and reached the gates of the park, shrieks and squeals of laughter could be heard as they ran into the welcoming open space, safe and free.

All too often when walking I’m lost in thought, usually about all the things I should be doing. When sitting somewhere I’m busy on my ‘phone, mostly working.

That day was like a ‘Christmas movie in the making’ day, as instead of doing that I had been present, really present and appreciated just seeing life happen; a gift in itself!

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

If this dog had been a cat it would have used up one of its nine lives.

Give us all a break

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

AS far as I’m concerned, these so-called graffiti ‘artists,’ are not only a blight on the landscape but a blight on our whole society.

Their daubs scrawls and indiscriminate obscenities, desecrate our buildings, bridges, rolling stock and just about anything else that gets in the way of their sanctimonious spray cans. I do admit that a small minority (ala Banksy) can indeed be creative, and sometimes even enhance buildings and structures that are otherwise gloomy and run down - but the majority are not.

Most are anti-social destructive louts, with nothing better to do than destroy other people’s creations and hard work. Far from it for me to declare that the three young men who were once rundown and tragically killed by a train deserved what they got - of course they didn’t, but there should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that they simply shouldn’t have been there in

the first place. Apparently, the following day ‘tensions were running high’ at the Loughborough Junction, where well-wishers sprayed black hearts and RIP on shutters outside the station.

It appears extra police had to be brought in after youths defaced a flower memorial and daubed slogans criticising the police and Transport for London for their actions! Er, just a minute What particular actions were they actually objecting to? The way the police had the utterly disturbing and upsetting job of clearing the remains of the victims from the track?

The Transport authorities highly daunting task of dealing with the disruption and commuter chaos that ensued after the accident? Give us all a break.

Internet Saint

How dare these blots on society be allowed to deface other people’s property, particularly our memorials and cause an affront to our senses in the name of ‘art’. Perhaps something good will come out of this tragedy by discouraging others to splosh paint everywhere, but somehow, I doubt it. I dunno, perhaps it’s me. Sometimes I truly feel I’m getting too old for it all.

One totally unrelated action I would like to suggest before I finally check out, is to remove the words ‘well done’ and ‘amazing’ from the English language. That should strike most our so-called TV presenters and quizzers utterly dumb and make way for some proper talent, that can actually ad lib their way out of the proverbial paper bag! Thanks for all your mail. Keep it coming, I truly do read it all. Keep the faith.

The sooner these misfits put the spray cans away, smarten up and get down to learning something from all that mainly free education they take so much for granted, the better it will be for all of us. Personally, I would declare all-out combat on these people; using CCTV and any means possible to bring them to book. I would like to see them named, shamed and made to clean off their filth, before being heavily fined, lose their student grants or even face imprisonment.

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.

CARLO ACUTIS, known as ‘the patron saint of the internet’ and ‘God’s influencer’, is set to become the first millennial to be canonised by the Catholic Church.

The canonisation ceremony will take place on April 26, 2025, at the Vatican, officiated by Pope Francis.

Carlo Acutis, born in London and raised in Italy, gained recognition for using his technological skills to document miracles online and create websites for Catholic organisations. He passed away at age 15 in 2006 from leukaemia in Monza, Italy. After his death, his remains were moved to a shrine in Assisi, where they are displayed alongside other relics.

Canonisation in the Catholic Church requires two verified miracles attributed to the candidate’s intercession. Acutis’ first miracle, recognised in 2020, involved the healing of a Brazilian child with a congenital disease. His beatification was marked by a ceremony at St Francis Basilica in Assisi, where a tapestry bearing his image was displayed. The second miracle, involved a university student in Florence who recovered from severe brain bleeding.

Carlo Acutis’ life story has been described as a bridge for the Catholic Church to connect with younger generations in the digital era. Pope Francis, who has frequently praised Acutis, sees him as a model of faith and modern evangelism.

Carlo Acutis.

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?

Selling your home is a difficult process.

But you are not alone, we are with you on this new journey...

IN the heart of every home lies a story. At S4les Management Real Estate, we understand that behind every property is a unique journey, a collection of memories waiting to be passed on.

Our tale begins with you, the homeowner, and your aspirations for the future.

Imagine standing in the doorway of your beloved home, filled with a lifetime of memories and dreams for the future. Selling a home is not merely a transaction; it’s a deeply personal experience, and we understand the significance of every detail.

With a blend of empathy and expertise, we delve into your world, unravelling the intricacies of your property and crafting a personalised strategy tailored to your needs. With a team of seasoned professionals, our expertise in real estate is unmatched.

Our commercial team brings years of industry experience, ensuring that your property receives the attention and care it deserves. From the initial consultation to the final sale, we are by your side, guiding you through each stage of the process. Begin a journey with us whe-

URBALEX ABOGADOS | SOLICITORS RECHTSANWÄLTE

A totally independent international law firm whose main objective is providing a wide range of responsive and cost-effective legal services to our clients.

OUR aim is to be the first choice legal adviser for dynamic businesses and successful individuals. The solid establishment of our office is complemented by association with other well-known firms in the UK and Germany which enables us to offer extensive experience in a variety of complementary disciplines.

Our Spanish Solicitor, Ana María Vázquez assists English and German clients specially in the following fields: Civil law, Corporate and Commercial Law, Conveyancing, Inheritance, Non-Resident Tax Law, Civil Law and Corporate and Commercial Law. She has worked in London and Hamburg and is fluent in both languages.

At the firm also works Montserrat

re every detail of your home is meticulously highlighted. With our complimentary property valuation and a comprehensive suite of marketing tools at your disposal, including prominent listings on top property portals, strategic social media and print advertising and our exclusive real estate magazine, your property will shine in its truest light.

Communication is key, and we prioritise keeping you informed every step of the way. Through clear and open dialogue, we ensure that you are well-informed and confident in every decision made. Whether it’s discussing marketing strategies or negotiating offers, you can trust that we have your best interests at heart.

But our support doesn’t end with the sale. We understand that the post-sale process can be tough, which is why we accompany you every step of the way, assisting with all post-sale paperwork and ensuring a smooth transition for both you and the buyer.

Step into a world of possibilities with S4les Management Real Estate. Let us craft a successful sale, marking a new beginning for you and your family. Make the good choic e.

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FEATURE

Navarro, who is a ‘Procuradora’ and is the person in charge of the relations with the Courts for all procedures in Malaga. She has worked previously in Barcelona and speaks English.

The service we offer is not only of high professional standard but also fully trustworthy and reliable. The clients trust us and they know they can come to us when they need as they know we are committed to helping both businesses and individuals in developing their activities and also defending their interests.

If a client requests our support early on, we can prevent potentially conflictive situations together. Client and lawyer have to accept things that cannot be changed and act when a change is possible.

Avda. Antonio Belón Nº3, 1ºC, 29602 Marbella | 952 776 908 amvazquez@urbalexabogados.com | urbalexabogados.com

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Embracing warmth and depth

HOME interiors in 2025 are set to showcase a captivating blend of rich and inviting colour palettes. Dark, earthy tones like deep greens and chocolate browns are gaining popularity for their ability to create cosy and dramatic spaces, perfect for adding a sense of intimacy.

The resurgence of red brings warmth and sophistication into living areas, with a variety of shades being used to energise rooms and create striking focal points. Reds are being paired creatively with muted accents for a balanced look.

For a more serene atmosphere, calming blues and greens are taking centre stage. These soft tones offer a fresh alternative to traditional neutrals,

promoting relaxation while adding subtle elegance to interiors.

Warm neutrals, including shades with gentle yellow undertones like creamy whites and soft beiges, are also making a statement. These colours create a welcoming ambiance for modern homes.

The trend of colour drenching - using a single hue across walls, ceilings, and trim - is transforming interiors into cohesive, immersive spaces. This approach allows bold and subtle colours alike to shine in a unified, harmonious design.

2025’s colour trends celebrate the balance between bold expression and serene comfort, offering endless possibilities for refreshing and personalising living spaces.

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 Andalucía, and vibrant, multi-colored 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 nestled 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.

Get

ON November 8th, Spain’s biggest property portal, Idealista, hosted a big event in the Malaga Congress centre. Over 500 estate agents attended a full day of training, networking and lectures about the latest updates in the Spanish property industry.

The event, the biggest yet in Andalucia, had its focus on predictions and outlook of 2025.

After hours of analysing statistics, number of sales, stock of property avaliable in the province of Malaga compared to the rest of the country. All the very competent experts and fellow estate agents could all agree on the challenges ahead. These are a few take aways;

1. The biggest problem is the lack of avaliable properties for sale and long term rent.

2. Even though it can seem to the naked eye that there are lots of new properties being built, the supply is nowhere near the demand.

3. The ECB’s recent cutting of interest rates, possibly making mortgages more

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, Málaga

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

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affordable, which can likely sustain even higher prices. Most likely there are further rate cuts ahead.

4. The second biggest problem is the lack of regulation in the real estate sector. However it seems that Andalucia will finally make it obligatory for estate agents to have a professional licence and insurance in 2025. Similar to what Catalonia, Valencia and the Balearic Islands already put in place.

So, how to get your foot on the property ladder with high prices and low supply?

Our best tips are to keep talking to established (and of course licensed by

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 white-washed 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 Júzcar, 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.

a professional association like GIPE or API) estate agency in the area you are interested in. They know the area, the complexes and when they get in a good property they often sell it to their existing clients before it is shown on the internet. Get qualified for finance BEFORE looking at property, so you are ready when you find the right property.

If you are not in a hurry; ask your agent for pre-releases of new developments. The first units are normally offered at discounted prices and go quickly among investors.

For example, StartGroup released a new development called La Cala Sunset a few weeks ago and 20 per cent of the apartments are already reserved. So prices are likely to increase within a short period.

Try to find a good estate agent that you feel you can trust. Look for agents that are established for a long time and are both licensed and insured. Their knowledge will provide you with the value you need to succeed!

Photos: Shutterstock

Beyond homes: discover Spanish ‘fincas’

IN Spain, it’s not only houses and apartment buildings that are up for sale - there’s an entire range of unique property types, each with its own Spanish terminology. One such property type is the ‘finca’ a concept unfamiliar to many newcomers. A finca is essentially a countryside estate or farmhouse, typically situated on a plot of land, often exuding rustic charm with stone walls, wooden beams, and clay tile roofs. These properties embody the essence of rural Spanish living and offer a distinctive, traditional character that many buyers find enchanting.

The word ‘finca’, originating from Arabic in the 1400s, translates to ‘estate’ or ‘farmhouse’, but usually takes on greater fame when framed against the often fabulous

views it can behold. From its humble origins amongst the Moors, the finca has come to represent a way of life steeped in historical and agricultural significance and even denoting luxury and elegance.The average plot size of a finca in Spain is around 6.000m2 - variable, depending on the region.

Many expats come to Spain to seek out that new Mediterranean lifestyle, often searching for the typical Spanish villa or apartment with a sea-view balcony. For those who prefer a quieter, rural life away from the hustle and bustle, a finca might be exactly what you’re looking for.

These countryside retreats offer an idyllic blend of luxury and tranquility, perfect for embracing a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by sun, fresh air, and birdsong. Many Spanish weddings are held in fincas - the proof in the pudding of their wonderful backdrops, excellent photo potential and most importantly, sensational memories.

From rustic farmhouses surrounded by blooming vineyards to luxurious estates with ample gardens and private pools, Spain offers great variety. What they all have in common is that cemented within their walls is deep Spanish tradition. Many are passed down over generations and behold decades of history. They have their own unique charm and cultural heritage. The tradi-

ARE YOU CONSIDERING

tional finca often flaunts quintessentially Spanish characteristics including whitewashed walls and terracotta roofs - often bordered by olive groves and vineyards or even orange and lemon trees. They serve as a permanent home, second home or quite easily, as a holiday rental - particularly in more touristic regions including Andalucia, where demand for rural fincas is exponentially growing.

Fact: purchasing a finca is an excellent investment. Its versatile qualities as a family home, rural retreat or holiday rental option open up many doors. Avoid been thrown by the term ‘rustic’ too. Many come complete with modern luxuries including tennis courts and swimming pools and their many outhouses and buildings including old storage barns can usually be converted easily.

If you do prefer more rustic living, why not buy a few hens and start collecting your own eggs every morning?

MAKING SOUTHERN SPAIN YOUR NEW HOME ?

WHETHER you dream of sunny beaches, vibrant culture, or picturesque landscapes, Hansen Real Estate is here to make your transition seamless.

Established in 2012, Hansen Real Estate in southern Spain has been assisting people from families to investors in buying, selling, and renting properties along the entire coast of southern Spain.

Our business is founded on honesty and seriousness, boasting over 30 years of collective experience in the real estate industry.

When choosing to buy a property on the Costa del Sol or elsewhere in southern Spain, it is highly beneficial to have a real estate broker who is fa-

miliar with the areas, the culture, and, of course, the language. We will assist you with all aspects of property purchases, including mortgages, complete renovations, small improvements, internet installation, moving, and currency exchange.

If you have any doubts about which area is best for you, or if you have numerous questions regarding property purchase in southern Spain, do not hesitate to get in touch. We will listen and work diligently to understand and resolve any problems or issues you may have.

In our office, you will find Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Spanish, German, and, of course, English-speaking members of the team, making us

ADVERTISING FEATURE

the ideal choice as your house-hunting specialists. Our team are very experienced within the real estate sector and specialise in finding you the ideal property.

Each year, we help over 40 families find their dream property on the Costa del Sol. If you need assistance, all you need to do is get in touch. If you are in the area, please visit our office and share your ideas, projects, and dreams.

Avenida Andalucia 64 - 29740

Torre del Mar, Malaga info@hansen-realestate.com Tel: 0034 952 541 794 hansen-realestate.com

Complete 360 Solutions with Hansen Real Estate

Email: info@hansen-realestate.com

Tel: 0034952 541 794

Hansen Real Estate offers comprehensive ser vices for buying, selling, and renting proper ties in Southern Spain.

Property Options

From beachfront villas to city apartments and investment properties, we cater to every need and budget.

Renovations

Transform your property with our renovation services, from minor upgrades to full remodels.

Utility Setup

Hansen Real Estate handles utility contracts and internet setup, making your move seamless.

Moving Assistance

Alleviate moving stress with our professional assistance services.

Mortgages and Insurances: Secure the best mortgage rates and insurance policies with our help.

Address: Avenida Andalucia 64 – 29740, Torre del Mar, Málaga. www.hansen-realestate.com Explore Hansen Real Estate's 360

“Seize the Opportunity: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Invest in Costa del Sol Real Estate”

Estepona Seghers Duplex Apartment

AS the buying season arrives on the Costa del Sol, there’s no better time to explore investment opportunities in this vibrant region. Following a bustling summer, many property owners have reaped substantial profits from short-term rentals, and now new properties are entering the market. Whether you’re in search of a chic apartment, a luxurious penthouse, a charming townhouse, or a private villa, this is the prime moment to make a real estate investment.

For over 40 years, Melrose Properties has been a trusted name in the real estate sector, specialising in

both rentals and sales across the municipality of Estepona, and extending to Marbella and Sotogrande. With decades of experience, we understand the nuances of this dynamic market, offering our clients in-depth knowledge and unmatched service.

While property prices on the Costa del Sol can vary significantly, it is essential to understand true market values. At Melrose Properties, we emphasise transparency and provide comprehensive market studies to help buyers and sellers alike make informed decisions. In an ever-changing market, some properties

may appear overpriced, but our expertise ensures you get the best possible value, whether you are buying or selling.

Our team of dedicated professionals prides itself on delivering service with integrity and honesty. If you’re considering a property investment, or if you’re looking to sell, trust Melrose Properties to guide you through every step of the process with the utmost professionalism. We’re here to help you maximise your returns while making your property journey a seamless and successful experience

Tel: (+34) 952 802 912 / (+34) 667 337 330 Avenida Luis Braille 31, Estepona, 29680, Malaga / sales@melrose-properties.com / www.melrose-properties.com

Discover La Zagaleta: where lifestyle meets top-choice investment

LA ZAGALETA is an exclusive urbanisation located in the municipality of Benahavis, one of the most sought-after regions of Malaga for visitors and most certainly for real estate buyers. The best thing is that it is conveniently located around 25 minutes by car from the glamourous town of Marbella and about 20 minutes to Puerto Banus, one of the most glitzy marinas in Spain. Benahavis, primed for its sensational gastronomy, is only a 20-minute drive away by car and San Pedro de Alcantara, with its restaurant and shop-lined boulevard will take a mere 10 minutes by car.

If wining and dining doesn’t quite fit the bill for socialites, La Zagaleta has its own clubhouse to celebrate a vibrant social scene: the Old Course Clubhouse. This is the sophisticated gathering point of the urbanisation, always

buzzing with energy within its 5,000 square metres of interior space. It also boasts its own party pavilion for private events, as well as a discotheque, games room, billiard room, swimming pool, sauna and even a shop.

For nature enthusiasts, there’s a unique opportunity to observe the remarkable La Zagaleta deer, a special species of wildlife that inhabits the area. In the mountains and golf courses, expect to see a new species of resident, donned in their own antlers and fur jackets. Central European deer, fallow deer and mouflon (a wild native sheep, native to Cyprus) are populating the urbanisation and kilometres around it and live to tell the tale of the old hunting grounds that were there more than 30 years ago. It is expected that numbers of the elegant species will continue to grow.

For sports and leisure fans, La Zagaleta boasts two exceptional golf courses with the simplest of names: the Old Course and the New Course. Both are dynamically designed and set in luscious surroundings. The Old private golf course is an 18-hole course with four clearly marked tees per hole for players to adapt their game from the easiest to the most difficult level. Opened in 2005, the New Course combines an entertainment space with another 18-hole golf course with obstacles and doglegs against a backdrop of outstanding natural beauty including - of course - the best spectators: deer!

In the vicinity, there is also La Zagaleta Equestrian Club for budding horse riders complete with 23 stables, four riding arenas and its own private horse-riding instructor. For tennis professionals or amateurs, there are two tennis courts and a padel court.

Investing in La Zagaleta, Costa del Sol, offers an unparalleled lifestyle that harmoniously blends luxurious elegance with the breathtaking beauty of nature. La Zagaleta promises not just a prime investment opportunity but a transformative life investment.

Estepona Port Apartment Cancelada Duplex Penthouse

Wild deer are one of the unique additions to luxurious property and lifestyle investment in La Zagaleta.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Why

choose

Sunloma Real

Estate Costa del Sol as your trusted Real Estate partner?

SELLING your home or buying property on the beautiful Costa del Sol is a significant decision, and you deserve a team of professionals who understand the local market and care about your unique needs. Kirsi Oras and Marja Ruusuvirta-Solis, the dynamic duo behind Sunloma Real Estate, are here to ensure that your real estate journey is smooth, successful, and stress-free.

With years of experience navigating the Costa del Sol market, Kirsi and Marja offer a deep understanding of the region, from the bustling cities to the peaceful coastal villages. They know the best areas, the hidden gems, and the latest market trends that can make a crucial difference in the success of your property sale or purchase.

Why are Kirsi and Marja the best choice for your real estate needs?

Their approach is simple: personalised, professional, and proactive. They take the time to listen to your goals, whether you’re looking to sell your home quickly and at the best price or searching for your dream property in one of Europe’s most sought-after regions. They don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all strategy. Instead, they tailor their approach to fit your

specific needs, offering personalised guidance every step of the way.

Kirsi and Marja are known for their exceptional marketing skills. They use modern techniques, professional photography, virtual tours, and an extensive network to ensure your property receives the attention it deserves. Their dedication to detail means that your home is presented to the right buyers in the best possible light, maximising your chances of a successful sale.

Their warm, approachable personalities make them easy to work with, while their professionalism and integrity give you the confidence that your property is in safe hands. With Sunloma Real Estate, you’re not just another client - you’re a valued partner, and they are fully invested in helping you achieve your real estate goals.

Trust Kirsi Oras and Marja Ruusuvirta-Solis to handle your property sale or purchase with expertise, dedication, and a personal touch that sets them apart. Your home deserves nothing less than the best.

Sunloma - Better than bigger

Kirsi Oras

Real estate agent, Owner

Spanish Real Estate agent degree API (+34) 662 949 122 • kirsi@sunloma.es

Marja Ruusuvirta Solís

Real estate agent, Owner

Spanish Real Estate agent degree API (+34) 646 376 355 • marja@sunloma.es

Isabel Ruusuvirta Solís

Rental agent, secretary (+34) 622 286 248 info@sunloma.es • www.sunloma.es

WE ARE MOVING TO Avenida Jesus Santos Rein 21, Local 4, Edificio Diana I. Next to the Feria ground

Welcome from 2nd December onwards!

Sun, Sea & Tax Savings

INVESTING in property on the Costa del Sol has become even more attractive in 2024, largely due to the region’s status as a favourable tax haven for expatriates.

A significant change is the abolition of wealth tax, which previously applied to both residents and nonresidents with global assets exceeding €700,000. This removal of wealth tax barriers has particularly encouraged high earners to explore property purchases and potential permanent residency in the area. This shift is significant for prospective buyers, especially when combined with various other tax

advantages available in the region.

These include minimal inheritance or gift tax obligations, investment income tax rates, and capital gains tax rates ranging from 19 per cent to 26 per cent. Additionally, private pensions receive favourable treatment as investment income.

Furthermore, recent updates to the Model 720 form, which requires a declaration of overseas assets exceeding €50,000, have improved transparency and

alleviated concerns about potential fines.

Credit: Anna Ellis

Previously, failure to file or incorrect filing could result in substantial penalties, sparking criticism for burdening expatriates unfairly.

However, following a ruling by the European Court of Justice, fines have been revoked, and the associated penalty regime has been revised with immediate effect.

Consequently, individuals contemplating property investment in the Costa del Sol can proceed with confidence, knowing they are free from the threat of punitive fines.

BigMat Mijas: Your trusted partner in construction, renovation, and design ADVERTISING FEATURE

ON the Costa del Sol, where construction and renovations are thriving, BigMat Mijas has established itself as a trusted leader for professionals and homeowners alike. With years of experience and a steadfast commitment to quality, this company offers more than just materials - it delivers comprehensive solutions to bring any project to life, whether it involves construction, renovation, or interior design.

BigMat Mijas boasts one of the most extensive product ranges in the market. Their comprehensive catalogue includes:

High-quality construction materials: From cement and bricks to more specialised

products, all ensuring durability and strength. Tools and machinery: Perfect for

meeting the demands of even the most discerning professionals. Renovation

solutions: Including cladding, flooring, and materials that combine design with functionality. Decoration and finishing touches: Everything needed to personalise and enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces.

BigMat Mijas partners with leading brands, ensuring products that meet the highest quality standards.

Personalised and Professional Support.

One of BigMat Mijas’ key strengths is its team of industry experts, offering personalised and professional advice. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or seeking a specific product, the in-store staff is always ready to answer questions and provide tai-

lored recommendations to meet your needs.

BigMat Mijas is also committed to sustainability, promoting the use of eco-friendly materials and environmentally conscious practices. Furthermore, the company actively engages with its community by hosting events and special promotions, showcasing its role as a local business with global ambitions.

For more information, visit their website at You can also visit their store at A7 km 9, Las Lagunas in Mijas Costa. Or call 952 584 473 or via email at marketing@bigmat mijas.com

BigMat Mijas: Where Your Projects Take Shape and Your Ideas Become Reality.

BigMat Moreno cial. Camino de Coin A7053 km 9 Cruce Entrerrios. 29650 Mijas Costa

Tel. 952 584 473 • Whatsapp tel. 637 068 888 • email: marketing@bigmatmijas.com • Website: www.bigmatmijas.com

Inside Spain’s

most

expensive homes –

and they’re all on the Costa del Sol!

IT comes as no surprise that some of Spain’s wealthiest individuals have chosen to call Malaga, on the stunning Costa del Sol, their home. With its verdant landscapes, world-class golf courses, extensive coastline, and nearly perpetual sunshine, it’s easy to see why. Add to that the allure of an upscale lifestyle in hotspots like Marbella, Puerto Banus, and Benahavis, and owning a home or holiday villa here becomes irresistible. It may come as a surprise, however, that in fact, all fi ve of the most expensive homes in Spain are located in Malaga, with three of these popping up in Marbella alone. With prices of up to €35 million, these mind-bogglingly incredible homes feature all manner of extras from tennis courts to games rooms and even a bowling alley.

To give property buyers an idea of the range of luxury available to the lucky few, a villa in La Zagaleta in Benahavis, Malaga has more bathrooms then bedrooms - a necessary addition if the house fl aunts a to-

tal area of 3,300 m². Its 17 bathrooms outperform its 11 bedrooms, many of which look out onto a panoramic background of mountain ranges. Sprinkled within this grandeur, expect to come across pockets of indulgence with a spa, gym, private ci-

nema hall and wine cellar - the whole venture costs around €29 million!

Not all homes totting up such high prices have to be villas. The Peace Palace in Marbella, Malaga boasts a more classic style yet with a touch of spiritual charm. The colossal size

of the house itself is impressive with its 11 bedrooms housed within 3,000 m² of living space and located within vast acres of land. Yet this palace breathes relaxation, where its fountains, lakes, waterfalls and unique decoration sourced from around the world make the investment of €28 million worthwhile - a lifelong experience of serenity is guaranteed.

Topping the list of luxury properties is a breathtaking 16-bedroom mansion, majestically framed by the azure blue of the Mediterranean Sea and the awe-inspiring Sierra Blanca mountain range.The mansion in Las Lomas in Marbella, Malaga comes in at a price of €35 million, complete with games room, wine cellar, swimming pool and its own tennis court. Even more quirky is its very own bowling alley and turkish baths adding an eclectic twist to this palacial masterpiece.

So, if you happen to win the lottery or you’re one of the lucky few, be sure to check out these sensational homes on the Costa del Sol!

Some of the most expensive houses in Spain are found in Marbella, Malaga.

PREMIER real estate experts Black

Onyx by Keller Williams, with an office in La Cala de Mijas, have a long story of being not only a real estate brand, but also a symbol of luxury, exclusivity and protection, as well as a highly distinguished lifestyle, precisely reflecting the increasing exclusivity of the Costa del Sol.

With already 15 years in Spain, and five of those years on the Costa del Sol, providing the most tailor-made service to those seeking property, no one understands better the Spanish luxury real estate market quite like Black Onyx by Keller Williams.

Black Onyx by Keller Williams meticulously select each property on the Costa del Sol to meet the

highest standards of luxury. From beachfront villas to apartments in prestigious enclaves, every detail is designed to provide those looking to invest with an unparalleled level of experience.

They offer a highly personalised service, adapting to a client’s specific needs and desires. From the search for the perfect property to the completion of the transaction, they walk their clients through every step of the process.

The name ‘Black Onyx’ was not chosen at random. Inspired by the gem stone’s protective and energetic powers, Black Onyx becomes a talisman of strength, power and resilience, attributes that reflect the essence of the brand.

Thanks to the partnership with Keller Williams, they have the latest technology in the real estate sector to offer you a cutting-edge and highly efficient experience. Their online platforms allow you to explore properties and make transactions with ease and security.

Through their partnership with the foremost real estate specialists Keller Williams, they have a global network of agents and partners, which allows them to offer properties in the most prestigious markets in the world. Whether the search is for a villa on the French Riviera, an apartment in the heart of New York City or a residence on the exclusive Costa del Sol, Black Onyx makes dreams come true.

A new look office in La Cala de Mijas has just been inaugurated which is well worth a visit. Opening times are Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 2pm, and 3pm to 6.30pm.

Black Onyx by Keller Williams can be found in La Cala de Mijas, Calle Butiplaya 1, local 4, Edificio Butibamba. Count on them for your property dreams to come true by calling (+34) 951 097 575, or writing to Manuel Collado at manuel.collado@ kwspain.es, or Jessica Baerlocher at jessica.baerlocher@kwspain.es and as well check out their website at blackonyx.kw.com.

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.

Create your Dream Home with HOME Andalu Living

ARE you looking to design and furnish your vacation home in Spain but feel overwhelmed by the process? Don’t know where to start or whom to contact? At HOME Andalu Living, we specialise in designing beautiful homes tailored specifically to your taste and needs. For over 12 years we have helped homeowners here at Costa del Sol create their dream home. From custom interior design and bespoke furniture packages to full-scale project management, we provide a personalised, turnkey solution designed with you in mind.

Your Vision, Our Expertise

Benefits you can enjoy:

• Completely Customised Spaces: We offer a wide range of styles and brands, as well as handcrafted furniture, giving you the freedom to create a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle.

• Stress-Free Turnkey Service: From sourcing furniture to coordinating deliveries, assembly, and quality control, we ensure your home is fully functional and stylish from day one.

• Expert Guidance with a Creative Edge: Whether you love sleek, minimalist designs, the modern Mediterranean look, or your taste is bold and eclectic, our team of experts will work with you to bring your vision to life. We blend creativity with practicality, ensuring your home not only looks stunning but also functions perfectly for your daily needs.

• Effortless Project Management: If you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the local market, our handson project management service allows you to relax while we handle all the complexities of home creation.

At HOME Andalu Living, we know that filling a space with beautiful furniture and nice accessories is not enough to create a dream home, it is you who make the difference! We make your needs, style preferences and functional requirements our top priority and our design is made specifically for you and your lifestyle.

Make the process of creating your perfect Spanish home smooth, enjoyable, and uniquely yours with HOME Andalu Living

www.andaluliving.com • home@andaluliving.com

The Jellyfish House

A modern marvel in Marbella

SITUATED along the shimmering coastline of Marbella, the Jellyfish House is a groundbreaking architectural achievement designed by Wiel Arets Architects. This extraordinary home seamlessly combines cutting-edge design with luxurious amenities, offering an unparalleled living experience.

The house’s most iconic feature is its cantilevered rooftop infinity pool with a glass bottom, which not only offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea but also casts dynamic reflections throughout the interiors. A service elevator directly connects the kitchen to the pool area, allowing for effortless entertaining and convenience, a thoughtful detail that enhances the home’s functionality.

Inside, the residence exudes sophistication with its sleek, minimalist interiors and open-plan design. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Jellyfish House is equipped with premium wellness features, including a sauna and steam room, providing a private sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. These facilities complement the home’s serene ambiance, inspired by the fluidity and grace of jellyfish.

The Jellyfish House stands as a testament to innovation and luxury, blending bold architectural vision with meticulous attention to detail. Its prime location on the Costa del Sol further enhances its allure, making it a true masterpiece of modern living.

Is it worth getting solar panels in Spain?

ENERGY costs are skyrocketing in Spain, so installing solar panels could help to save you big money on your energy bills. Investing in the natural characteristics of Andalucia makes perfect sense for your pocket. According to the University of Malaga, we enjoy more than 3,000 hours of glorious sunshine every year in this part of the world. So why not make it an economic benefit? Solar energy is rapidly becoming a preferred solution and smart investment for homeowners on the Costa del Sol.

The potential for money savings is enormous. With soaring energy prices, the return on investment (ROI) of a solar installation is becoming quicker and potentially profitable. On the Costa del Sol, most homeowners can see ROI in just four to five years. It’s possible to live through the summer months without paying electricity bills and with significantly reduced bills in winter.

If you rent out a property, solar panels instantly increase its attractiveness and value, as renters are often on the lookout for cost savings on their bills. A solar installation also boosts the value of your home, especially now that an ‘energy certificate’ is needed to sell your property. A solar installation can significantly reduce your home’s dependency on the

grid and give you a better rating, and therefore the chance to bump up the price when it is time to sell.

For those with electric vehicles, charging with solar-generated electricity will make an important impact in fuel costs, and swimming pools can be warmed with year-round free power.

In an era of environmental concerns, solar energy offers an eco-friendly alternative. By producing your own solar power, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to cleaner, greener energy. The more households that use solar, the lower the demand for non-environ-

ADVERTISING FEATURE

mentally friendly and polluting electricity.

SolpanelExperten installs solar panels for homes and office buildings throughout Costa del Sol. As well as supplying a clean energy source, they offer a solar energy monitoring app which allows customers to see how much power they are using; financing of installations; and a very low maintenance technology.

The Costa del Sol is the optimal place to have solar panels and generate your own solar energy. With up to 320 days of sunshine a year, you have the opportunity to quickly regain the money you invested in your own solar energy.

or

Buying 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

Getting things done in Spain is often a complicated process, but installing solar panels is actually easy. And we take care of all the practicalities, which makes your effort minimal.

A free quote is available from the SolpanelExperten website, or contact Babak directly on +46 703 221 727, or Sebastian on +34 683 111 743.

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.

Moving to southern Spain

MOVING to the southern coast of Spain promises an idyllic blend of sun, sea, and cultural richness. Situated along the Mediterranean, this region offers a lifestyle that embodies relaxation and adventure in equal measure. Prepare to awaken each day to the gentle lapping of waves and the golden glow of sunlight filtering through your window. The Mediterranean climate ensures mild winters and scorching summers, inviting you to bask on pristine beaches or explore rugged coastal cliffs year-round.

Embrace a culinary journey that celebrates the bounty of land and sea. Indulge in freshly caught seafood, from succulent gambas al ajillo to grilled sardines straight off the fishing boats. Savour the vibrant flavours of gazpacho and salmorejo, traditional Andalucian soups perfect for cooling down on hot summer days. And don’t forget to raise a glass of crisp local wine or chilled cava as you toast to another breathtaking sunset over the Mediterranean horizon.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry

of history that adorns the southern coast. Wander through ancient Phoenician and Roman ruins in sites like Baelo Claudia or explore the Moorish heritage of Al-Andalus in cities such as Malaga and Almeria. Every cobblestone street and whitewashed building whispers tales of civilisations past, inviting you to delve deeper into the region’s captivating past.

Embracing life on the southern coast may require adjusting to the laid-back rhythm known as ‘mañana’ time. Take leisurely strolls along the seaside

promenades, sip café con leche at bustling cafes, and revel in the joy of siesta culture, where afternoons are reserved for rest and relaxation. Prepare to be enchanted by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, whose zest for life is as contagious as the Mediterranean breeze. Whether you’re seeking adventure in water sports, cultural exploration in charming villages, or simply a tranquil escape by the sea, the southern coast of Spain beckons you to embark on a journey of discovery and delight.

NEW BUILD OR SECOND HAND

YOU will have seen the cranes on the horizon as Costa del Sol property developers build to keep up with demand.

But is it best to go down the route of new build or are you better with a resale home that has had a previous owner (or owners)? Buying brand new has the advantage that there is no seller to change their mind or try and delay completing the transaction. You know a developer wants to conclude matters and doesn’t have any other agenda. There can also be a considerable financial advantage to buying new, especially if you opt for an ‘off plan’ development which is yet to be completed.

Many projects are offered to the market place for reservations, months, or in some cases years before building work is due to start and prices are often reduced by between 20 and 25 per cent for reservations at this early stage so it can be a great way to buy if you are happy to wait.

That’s not the case of course for resale homes; buyers can be moved in often within just a few weeks of finding their perfect home. And then there is the ‘what you see is what you get aspect’. It is likely that the urbanisation is well established, the garden is well cared for and you know exactly what is around you in terms of buildings and services.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

JENSEN STORE is a well-established store chain that has specialised in selling Jensen beds for over 20 years.

The company has five stores strategically located along the Spanish and Portuguese sun coasts, making them a leading player in the region for premium beds. Through its long-term involvement in the industry, Jensen Store has built a strong reputation by offering first-class service with the customer’s interest in focus.

One of the company’s unique strengths is its multicultural orientation. With customers and staff from different parts of the world, Jensen Store has developed a business that not only caters to the local markets, but also to the international clientele on the sunshine coast. The staff’s multilingual skills and understanding of different cultures contribute to a high level of service that makes every customer feel well taken care of, regardless of where they come from.

The Jensen Store focuses on providing its customers with a holistic experience in terms of sleep comfort, with a range that combines Jensen’s premium mattresses with associated bed frames and bedding. The company also offers tailor-made solutions for both private homes and hotels, and has thus positioned itself as a reliable partner for property owners and decorators on the Sunshine Coast.

With two decades of experience and five successful stores, Jensen Store continues to grow and develop, with a clear vision to always deliver world-class quality and service. Visit jensenstore.com today for a tailor made quote on your new Jensen bed.

Jensen Store Marbella Polígono Nueva Campana 23 29660 Nueva Andalucia, T: +34 952 908 855 marbella@jensenstore.com jensenstore.com

Discover Your Dream Home with La Raya Spanish Properties who are here to help you every step of the way.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Are you overwhelmed by the complexities of buying property in the Costa del Sol?

NAVIGATING the real estate market can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. At La Raya Spanish Properties, we understand your concerns and are here to guide you every step of the way.

Common Challenges:

Many prospective buyers face confusion about market trends, legal requirements, and finding the perfect home that meets their needs.

Your Solution:

La Raya Spanish Properties are a small friendly dedicated team which offers personalised, one-on-one service to ensure your unique needs are met. From initial consultation to closing, we provide expert guidance on every aspect of the buying process.

Why Choose Us:

With extensive local knowledge and a passion for excellence, La Raya Spanish Properties makes the homebuying experience enjoyable and stress-

free. We offer tailored market insights, comprehensive property searches. Our goal is to find you a home that fits with your lifestyle.

Your Path to Success:

Imagine confidently investing in a property, assured that each decision is backed by our expertise. We help you envision your future and turn it into reality. Our team speak many languages and can help you regardless of which language you speak.

Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back. Contact La Raya Spanish Properties today and take the first step toward finding your dream home. Let us transform your real estate journey into a seamless and rewarding one. Your dream home awaits!

Call us on +34 602 507 312 or visit www.larayaproperties.com to start your journey with La Raya Spanish Properties. Your dream home awaits!

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.

Spain’s cave village

SETENIL DE LAS BODEGAS, a charming town in the southern Andalucia region, is renowned for its unique cave homes, which are built into the natural rock formations of the surrounding landscape. These homes, carved into the limestone cliffs of the Sierra de Líjar mountains, have been inhabited for centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and culture.

this unusual architectural style.

The town’s name, ‘Setenil de las Bodegas’, refers to its wine heritage, with ‘bodegas’ meaning cellars in Spanish. Historically, these caves were used as storage for wine and other goods, but over time, they were adapted for residential purposes. Today, many of Setenil’s houses feature large rock overhangs that serve as natural roofs, giving the town an otherworldly appearance. The buildings are often whitewashed, contrasting with the dark stone, and narrow streets wind through the town, offering picturesque views of

The cave homes offer practical benefits in addition to their visual appeal. The thick rock walls maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year, keeping interiors cool in the hot summer months and warm in the winter. This natural insulation made Setenil an attractive place to live long before modern heating and cooling systems existed.

Visitors to Setenil de las Bodegas can explore these historic homes and the town’s winding streets, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in unique architecture, history, or traditional Spanish life. The cave homes stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the people who built and lived in them, creating a harmonious blend of nature and human adaptation.

AT Coastal Homes Marbella, we understand that a house is more than just four walls. It’s where memories are made, where families grow, and where dreams come to life. With over 22 years of experience and a personal, family-run touch, we’re here to help you find that special place you can call home. Whether

you’re looking for a holiday retreat or a forever home, our team is dedicated to making the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

463 Calle Jazmines, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella www.chmarbella.com

634 323 355

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

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

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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.

What is an Andalucian cortijo home?

AN Andalucian cortijo is a traditional Spanish farmhouse that captures the essence of southern Spain’s rural heritage. Originating in the Andalucia region, cortijos are designed to withstand the region’s hot, dry climate, while reflecting the country’s agricultural roots. These homes are typically situated in the countryside, surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and rolling hills.

The architecture of a cortijo is characterised by its sturdy, simple structure. Made from local materials such as whitewashed stone, clay tiles, and terracotta, cortijos have thick walls that provide insulation from the intense summer heat. The roofs are often pitched and covered with clay tiles, and large windows and doors open to the outdoors, providing natural ventilation.

Central courtyards are common, offering a private space where families can gather or animals might be kept. Cortijos often feature traditional elements like exposed wooden beams, rustic stone floors, and simple, functional furnishings. These homes were historically built to support farming activities, with space for livestock, storage of crops, and tools. Today, many cortijos have been renovated into charming, rustic residences, combining old-world charm with modern comforts.

In addition to their architectural appeal, cortijos embody the Andalucian way of life - focused on agriculture, family, and connection to nature. Whether used as family homes or vacation retreats, these unique homes offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.

Spain’s Luxury Homes

DEMAND for luxury homes in Spain is surging, driven by its cultural richness, enviable lifestyle, and appeal to global buyers. Known for its Mediterranean climate, historical charm, and vibrant traditions, Spain has become a top choice for affluent individuals seeking an exceptional living experience.

Luxury property hotspots like Marbella, Ibiza, and Barcelona are renowned for their exclusivity, offering breath-taking surroundings, state-ofthe-art amenities, and thriving social scenes. These areas attract highnet-worth buyers seeking a unique blend of comfort, privacy, and cultural vibrancy.

Spain’s competitive property prices compared to other European luxury markets have further fuelled

interest from international buyers, particularly from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia. These investors are drawn to Spain’s seamless blend of historic charm and modern infrastructure, which caters to both traditional and cosmopolitan tastes.

The country’s rich cultural heritagefrom its iconic architecture and art to its world-famous cuisine and festivals - adds an unmatched allure to luxury living in Spain. Paired with the high quality of life and scenic beauty, Spain offers a lifestyle that combines elegance and authenticity.

In 2024, Spain continues to shine as a premier destination for luxury real estate, offering unparalleled opportunities for both living and investment.

WELCOME TO THE WHITE HOUSE

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AT The White House we make each design special.

We create stunning residential and commercial spaces for a wide range of international and local clients in Marbella and beyond.

OUR SERVICES

We specialise in creating bespoke contemporary chic interiors in residential properties, working with a wide range of international clients mainly from northern Europe and Scandinavia. Our schemes are designed to deliver elegant spaces inspired by the Nordic palette of calming neutrals injected with international influences.

Each scheme is unique, created by marrying your requirements and our creative vision to deliver your dream interior.

THE KEY IS IN THE DETAILS

Lovisa@whitehousemarbella.com | 638 400 971 | whitehousemarbella.com

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specialises in luxury resales and new developments on the Costa del Sol.

Our team has deep market expertise and focuses on finding properties with the best return on investment (ROI). Whether it’s a sleek apartment, a spacious villa, or a prime investment, we provide personalised guidance every step of the way.

Ready to make your move? Scan the QR code now and let us help you find your dream home or investment!

Home office

CREATING the perfect home office involves balancing functionality and inspiration. Start by selecting a quiet, well-lit area to minimise distractions and enhance productivity.

Ergonomics are crucial; invest in a comfortable chair and a desk at the right height to prevent strain.

Adequate storage solutions, such as shelves and organisers, keep the wor-

kspace tidy and efficient. Personalise the space with decor that motivates you, like artwork, plants, or meaningful objects. Natural light boosts mood and energy, so position your desk near a window if possible. Incorporate task lighting to reduce eye strain.

Ensure your workspace has a reliable internet connection and all necessary technology, such as a high-quality monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Lastly, establish boundaries between work and personal life by maintaining a clutter-free desk and setting a schedule that includes breaks. This holistic approach to designing your home office fosters both productivity and well-being.

CALAHONDA, situated in the Costa del Sol, and perfectly cushioned between Marbella and Fuengirola, is a vibrant hub for real estate investors and expats seeking the perfect balance between Spain and the international vibe.

The neighbourhood of Calahonda, ideally pinpointed on the Mijas map, is often referred to as Sitio de Calahonda. It is a hidden gem with options as a holiday home, rental investment or permanent pad within a dynamic expat community. Compared to other areas of the Costa del Sol, Calahonda is relatively more affordable, yet this is no reflection of the real estate market which is most definitely booming.

Calahonda boasts a mix of permanent residents and tourists, which means that things never get dull or lacklustre. From luxury villas with coastal views to charming apartments and townhouses, it has everything you would be looking for on the Costa del Sol. Swimming pools, well-maintained gardens and a whole myriad of other extras are also on the cards - and all this within an area of outstanding

Calahonda, Costa del Sol: The best of both worlds

Now for the big question: How much? The average price of real estate in Calahonda depends on what you are looking for. Highend, top quality villas are likely to start from €500,000 and soar

to over €1.5 million depending on their size and proximity to local amenities. Apartments start a little lower down the scale at €150,000 to €400,000 with townhouses reaching a solid middle ground between €300,000 and €800,000. Of course, this is no exact science and prices will depend on

property condition and of course, location.

The great thing about Calahonda is its convenience. Close to nearby important towns and with enviable transport connections, it is a real steal of a place. It combines shops, leisure, restaurants, bars and beaches

all in one… not to mention the hiking trails. Due to its variety, it is a sterling option for families, couples or single folk, seeking the high life under the sun.

Another top selling point is the type of property on offer. Many residential complexes come with 24-hour security and locals will stress the strong sense of community, making it an enticing option. For those looking to rent, holiday homes are all the rage. There is a steady flow of tourists to the area pretty much all year round. The Costa del Sol never lets you down with a sunny day - even in the depths of winter! Calahonda is positioned slap bang in the middle of many tourist attractions from renowned golf courses to water parks and zoos and drawing people from far and wide, particularly during the summer months, when it is the key time to maximise on rentals.

natural beauty with local beach, Playa de Calahonda, on your doorstep.

Cork spray can improve insultion in a building by up to 30-40%.

What is Cork spray?

Cork spray is a 100% natural, sustainable solution made from the bark of cork trees. Harvesting cork helps the tree absorb more CO2 as it regrows, making it eco-friendly. The cork is ground into granules, creating a spray that insulates your home by up to an additional 30%40%, and is fire, mould and damp proof, and noise resistant. Key benefits

- Thermal Insulation: Cork spray can boost insulation by 3040%, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

- Fire & Waterproof: Its natural resistance to fire and water prevents decay and ensures long-lasting protection.

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- Durability: With a 10-year minimum warranty, cork spray offers long-term benefitssome buildings in Spain have used it for over 17 years.

- Flexible & Breathable: It allows walls to breathe, preventing moisture buildup and cracking.

- Acoustic Properties: Cork spray absorbs sound, reducing noise by up to 38 dB.

- Colour Options: Available in various colours, it fades just 1% per year, far less than traditional paint spraymastersespana.com info@spraymastersespana. com · +34 634 311 123

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 stabilize, rise, or fall in the coming year.

We are expert applicators of cork spray which is a fire, damp, and waterproof sealing insulator that comes in any colour and is 100% sustainable. It's been proven to insulate homes by an additional 30%+ It's sprayed directly onto any surface like paint, but only fades 1% per year, compared to paint which is usually 7%. All claims can be backed up by rigorous testing .

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% 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% by 2025 and experts say that the post-pandemic recovery period and boom in consumerism 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.

Málaga, for example, is currently in the top ten places for most expensive property. In Costa Blanca, prices are said to have risen by 4.3% in 2024 and in the Costa del Sol, the cost of buying a house has risen by 8.3% 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 market 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.

The home improvement dilemma

FOR homeowners tackling renovations, the choice between DIY and hiring a professional can feel daunting. Each approach offers unique benefits and challenges that depend on factors like time, cost, safety, and skill level.

DIY Advantages

DIY projects are often cost-effective and provide a sense of accomplishment. They’re ideal for smaller tasks like painting or assembling furniture, where the tools and skills required are accessible to most. However, DIY comes with risks: improper execution can lead to safety hazards or expensive mistakes. Projects like electrical work or plumbing demand expertise to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid potential dangers.

Professional Expertise

Hiring a professional guarantees quality and efficiency, particularly for complex projects like structural changes or major renovations. Contractors bring specialised tools, experience, and the assurance of completed work within a set timeline. This option is perfect for those with limited time or when tasks require technical expertise.

Making the Right Choice

Consider your experience, budget, and the scope of the project. While DIY can save money, professional services might be a safer, long-term investment for intricate tasks. Ultimately, aligning your approach with the project’s complexity ensures both satisfaction and success.

Home improvement is a balance - choose wisely for your needs and priorities.

The Spirit of Mastery: Hästens in Marbella

AT Hästens, bed craftsmanship is much more than a trade; it is a legacy dating back to the early 19th-century master artisans. This spirit of mastery embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence, the finest materials, and a dedication to creating the beds everyone dreams of.

Each Hästens bed is a masterpiece in its own right. Its craftsmanship results from a continuous process of refinement, blending innovation and tradition to achieve the extraordinary. At Hästens, the goal is not just to deliver the best but to surpass it time and again, elevating the standards of sleep to unparalleled heights.

This steadfast commitment is reflected in every detail, showcasing the passion and pride that goes into crafting each piece. Hästens beds are not merely a product; they are an experience that transforms how we sleep and live.

Discover this tradition of excellence at BD Home Marbella, the official Hästens retailer. Visit them at Calle Ramiro Campos Turmo 3, Marbella, or call +34 952 861 122 to learn more about how a Hästens bed can transform your sleep and your life.

Calle Ramiro Campos Turmo 3, Marbella • +34 952 861 122

Brits abroad

OVER the past year, there has been a notable surge in British interest in property in Spain. Taylor Wimpey España reported a remarkable 120 per cent increase in British reservations in April 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Data from Spain’s Colegio Registradores further reveals that Britons surpassed all other foreign nationalities in terms of home purchases in Spain in 2023. They accounted for 9.53 per cent of all foreign buyers throughout the year, contributing to 14.98 per cent of all homes sold in Spain. This positive

trend has extended into 2024. New homes are particularly in demand.

February 2024 figures from Spain’s Consejo General Notariado (General Council of Notaries) indicate a 9.7 per cent increase in total sales compared to the previous year, with new home sales surging by 20.83 per cent.

As the appetite for properties in Spain grows, so do prices, which rose by 5 per cent overall in the year leading up to February 2024, with a more sig-

nificant increase of 7.5 per cent observed for new homes. “The heightened demand for new homes reflects a growing appreciation for their energy efficiency compared to older properties. This trend benefits both the environment and buyers seeking to reduce their energy consumption.

“Increasingly, our buyers are actively seeking ‘A’ rated properties, a preference that we accommodate through our fabric-first approach to designing and constructing new homes,” stated the Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España.

You are our number 1 priority

“WE are a family real estate agency located in Sotogrande, where we live, since 1999, with 32 years of experience offering personalised real estate advisory services.

Our ample knowledge of the market enables us to advise and help you find the property that is best suited to your needs. For us, it is very important to properly convey the idea that Sotogrande is not only golf, beaches, marina and polo, and to highlight the facilities it offers to satisfy the needs of every individual client.

Sotogrande is a beautiful location, well designed, tranquil and safe, with a wonderful climate and extraordinary light that provide peace and quiet. For us it is important to convey all of these sensations to our clients, and that is our mission.

Our clients in Spain and all over the world have relied on our honest, business-like services, and our vast knowledge of the area. Rest assured that your needs and concerns will be our number one priority, and that

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we will give you the best real estate options for you and your family.

We will be delighted to hear your comments and suggestions in order to help you find what you are looking for. Whether it be a pied-àterre, a spectacular villa, a discrete villa, a penthouse, a dwelling with a mooring at the edge of the garden, an apartment, a plot of land on which to build your future house, or a country property, we undertake to assist you until you find the house of your dreams.

We have the endorsement of many satisfied clients. Our dedicated team is determined to find you your dream property in our unique part of the world.

Our ample knowledge of the market enables us to advise and help you find the property that is best suited to your needs.”

Galerias Paniagua local 3, Sotogrande, 11310, San Roque Cádiz 956 785 035 sotograndeonline.com

No Swedish police Tree-mendous

A CROSS-BORDER policing agreement between Norway and Sweden has come to a head, with Swedish police o cers no longer allowed to patrol in Norway.

This cooperation, which has been crucial for tackling cross-border crime in regions like Värmland and Dalarna in Sweden and Innlandet in Norway, is now facing serious challenges.

The disagreement arises from a key di erence in policing policies. Norwegian police recently stopped carrying rearms following a reduction in the country’s terrorist threat level. However, Swedish police ocers, who are always armed, cannot adhere to this unarmed policy when crossing the border into Norway.

The inability for Swedish ocers to patrol without guns has led to signi cant operational disruptions. Joint patrols, which began as a response to rising Swedish gang activity in Norway and increased cross-border crime, have been an e ective collaboration tool for both countries. However, the current stando now threatens the partnership.

Joakim Kristiansen, who leads the police on the Swedish side of the border, expressed frustration to broadcaster SVT: “You get discouraged. After all, we work together with the Norwegians, and this means that we are not allowed to be in Norway.”

The breakdown of this agreement could weaken e orts to combat cross-border crime, leaving communities on both sides of the border more vulnerable.

traditional felling ceremony.

EVERY year, a Norwegian spruce is sent to London as part of a Christmas tradition.

This year, the traditional felling ceremony took place with Oslo’s mayor, Anne Lindboe, and Robert Rigby, the Lord Mayor of Westminster.

The tree will be transported partially by an electric vehicle, and a new tree will be planted in Oslo to replace it.

The tradition began as a symbol of gratitude for Britain’s support during the Second World War. Upon arrival in London, the 56-year-old tree, standing 20 metres tall, will be set up in Trafalgar Square.

Organisers called the tree “one of the world’s most famous Christmas trees,” symbolising “friendship between cities and nations, peace, and solidarity.”

The tree will be adorned with energy-saving lights arranged in a traditional Norwegian style, hanging vertically.

The British Ambassador to Norway, Jan Thompson, confirmed: “The tree has brought joy to generations of Londoners,” adding that for many visitors to the city, seeing the Norwegian tree is as important as Christmas shopping on Oxford Street or attending a show in the West End.

Oslo’s mayor Anne Lindboe emphasised that the tree’s message of gratitude, friendship, and peace remains as meaningful today as it did 77 years ago.

Robert Rigby, the Lord Mayor of Westminster, thanked Norway for the gift, calling the tree “majestic” and praising their efforts.

The tree’s lights will be turned on December 5.

Women-only taxi service

A GROUNDBREAKING new platform, Pinker, is set to launch in Portugal, offering women-only taxi services with female drivers. Created by Mónica Faneco, Pinker aims to provide a safer and more comfortable travel option for women.

“We want to bring safety and confidence to women in our services,” Faneco told Lusa.

Initially operating in Lisbon, the service plans to expand to Porto and beyond, with over 1,000 women already pre-registered as drivers.

Developed during the Covid-19 pandemic, Pinker is entirely Portuguese and has received positive feedback from both women and men. “Men tell me it’s an excellent alternative for their daughters and wives,” Faneco shared.

Licensed in Portugal and Europe, Pinker enters a market dominated by Uber and Bolt. ç

However, its launch highlights a significant societal issue: women’s safety concerns when travelling alone.

Reports of sexual offenses in taxis, such as 182 incidents in London in 2021 and thousands recorded by Uber in the US, highlight the need for safer travel options.

While services like Pinker address an urgent problem, broader changes, including stricter driver checks and societal efforts to tackle gender-based violence, remain crucial.

The United Nations marked November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The

Housing crisis

AS housing prices soar in Portugal, many families struggle to a ord a home, particularly in the Algarve. This picturesque region demands some of the highest e ort rates - the percentage of income needed to buy property.

Lagos leads with a staggering 150 per cent e ort rate, meaning families earn far less than required to a ord housing. Other municipalities follow:

• Loulé: 137 per cent

• Albufeira: 128 per cent

• Silves: 127 per cent

Even Faro (99 per cent) and Portimão (91 per cent) pose challenges for homebuyers.

Beyond the Algarve, Cascais near Lisbon sees rates at 114 per cent, followed by Funchal (105 per cent) and Lisbon (101 per cent). High nancing costs, soaring property prices, and steep down payment requirements drive these unsustainable numbers.

For locals, this creates an impossible market. In areas like Lagos, where e ort rates exceed 100 per cent, families are priced out of their communities.

A ordable alternatives do exist. Rural regions in central Portugal o er relief:

• Idanha-a-Nova and Vouzela have rates of 15 per cent - the country’s lowest.

• Moura, Soure, and Guarda follow with rates of 19 per cent.

• Baião (Porto) is at 21 per cent.

These areas present opportunities for a ordable homeownership, contrasting sharply with urban hubs. However, Portugal’s housing divide continues to widen. While cities like Lisbon thrive at the expense of locals, rural municipalities o er a lifeline. For prospective buyers, the choice is between steep city costs or exploring the countryside. The dream of homeownership, once accessible, now re ects a stark divide between urban and rural Portugal.

Why celebrate Thanksgiving?

BEHIND the face of the long-standing American custom is thankfulness, charity and family and behind every taste of turkey or piece of pumpkin pie is the true story of America.

Today, the festival is renowned for celebrating values of community and lending a hand to others - universal codes of conduct, tting for any culture. This is why the yearly event has spread globally, marking another important day on the calendar for Americans and non-Americans alike.

The story goes back to the 1600s when the Wampanoag (native Americans before the arrival of the Europeans) and Pilgrims (Pilgrim Fathers, many of whom were from the English Separatist Church) met at Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621 to commemorate a bountiful harvest. The three-day feast became known as the rst Thanksgiving, as it brought the new settlers and the native Americans together in a celebration of the new continent. However, despite the jovial occasion remaining in the memories of many, it was President Abraham Lincoln who formally declared Thanksgiving a national holiday - but not

until 1863, during the Civil War. It was set to fall on the nal Thursday in November and sparked the beginning of the Thanksgiving tradition as a national holiday for re ection and appreciation. Across the world, the evening is characterised by the gathering of family and friends. Like all festivals, traditions can di er but on the centre table of all participating homes will be a Thanksgiving meal comprising roast turkey, stu ng, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes. And of course, for dessert, the quintessentially American pumpkin pie!

Thanksgiving Day 2024 will be celebrated across the world this year on November 28.

The festive season begins

THE annual tree lighting ceremony will see Mr Pursche, General Manager, the Kempinski Hotel Bahía team, and visitors count down to the illumination of the tree, which will take place on Saturday, November 30. The event is hailed locally as ‘When Christmas officially begins in Estepona!’

LAVAZZA presents a tribute to the musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber at the Salon Variétes, Fuengirola.

Curtain Up! The Lloyd Webber Special is being presented on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1. Joining Ricky on stage will be some of the Costa del Sol’s finest singing talent - Emma Prothero, Gemma Lloyd, and Juliet Williams - to celebrate the very best of Andrew Lloyd Webber, widely considered the best and most prolific stage musical composer of all time.

Love to sing Christmas Curtain UP!

Ricky Lavazza and co. will be performing songs from such popular greats as Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Starlight Express, Whistle Down the Wind, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and many more.

Recently, Ricky took to Facebook to announce he would also be accompanied on stage by some very talented kids, namely Liva, Olivia, Lily, Dottie, Savannah, and Harrison from Club DanSing and Stagecoach for Joseph & Whistle

Down The Wind for songs from Whistle Down the Wind and Joseph.

The Saturday, November 30 show begins at 7.30pm, while the Sunday, December 1 concert begins slightly earlier at 7pm. The Salon Variétes box office opens between 11am and 2.30pm from Monday to Friday on Calle Emancipation, Fuengirola Centre. The box office also opens one hour before each performance. Alternatively, tickets can be bought at the website www.salonvarie tes.com or by phoning 952 475 542. Tickets cost €20.

This year, the Christmas Market is expanding and introducing new and exciting activities for the whole family. Stalls will feature gastronomic delights, such as local honey, sweets, handmade chocolates, roasted coffee, and, of course, wines and olive oils, alongside handcrafted items, beautiful jewellery, and those perfect Christmas gifts.

This year, the hotel will also bring back the popular children’s area, with more stalls, fun activities for kids, face painting, and two bouncy castles. Santa Claus will make a special appearance, working ex-

tra hard this year to hear all the children’s Christmas wishes and personally collect their letters to him. While the children play, parents can shop or enjoy one of the two bars that will be available throughout the day.

The market will open from 1pm to 8pm, with choirs singing at various times during the day. Santa Claus will be present from 4.30pm until late, passing through the lobby to light the tree just as the sun goes down. The event is open to the public.

Kempinski Hotel Bahía can be found on Carretera de Cadiz (direction Marbella), Km 1066, Estepona.

THE Love to Sing Choir, in collaboration with Estepona Town Hall, are returning once more to the Auditorium at El Mirador del Carmen in Estepona.

This time, they will give a rousing concert of warming Christmas favourites to usher in the festivities. The Auditorium El Mirador del Carmen will open its doors on Friday, December 13 at 7pm with the concert starting at 7.30pm. Seating is limited, so don’t forget to arrive early to ensure a seat.

The choir will be accepting donations after the show in aid of the Spanish Association against Cancer, Estepona.

The Estepona headquarters of the AECC are in Calle Terraza 170, where they have

been offering care services to cancer patients and their families since 2023.

With the support of the Provincial Board of the AECC of Malaga, they offer essential services for cancer patients and their families free of charge, including psychological care, physiotherapeutic care, social counselling, the loan of orthoprosthetic material, and accompaniment to hospital.

The AECC also offers free yoga workshops, handicrafts, sewing, dance, fan painting, and English classes.

For this reason, charitable events, such as the Love to Sing Choir concerts, are so important for keeping the work of their volunteers going.

RICKY

Photo: Facebook / Ricky Lavazza

Adam Woodward

Authentic Blues Marbella language exchange

HAVING played with some of the greats of the Blues, Richard Ray Farrell brings his guitar and harmonica to Fuengirola. Richard Ray Farrell is the real deal - a Blues artist who lives the Blues as much as he sings it. From New York, he decided to hitchhike around Europe, not knowing where he would end up. More than 35 years as a travelling bluesman have earned him a reputation as top-notch talent on the scene.

He started out as a busker on the streets of Paris, playing his influences, including Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson, literally a ‘po’ boy long way from home’. Richard worked his way up from the subways and streets of cities throughout the continent, even

gious stages in Europe with some of the giants of traditional American blues music.

He lived the life of a true gypsy for years, and actually lived with a gypsy family for some time in Spain in the late 1970s. Richard opened for Joe Cocker at the Backnang Open Air Festival in Germany. He even toured with Blues greats such as RL Burnside for a period.

Friday, November 29, the Richard Ray Farrell Trio play the Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos at 10pm. Tickets are €15 from the box office or the Clarence Jazz Club website.

Marc Menendez-Roche FANCY a natter? Marbella’s English-Spanish conversation exchange kicks off again on Thursday, November 28.

Dust off your Spanish phrasebook or bring your British wit to Bar La Escalera on Thursday night, November 28, for the International Language Exchange & Cultural Mixer.

The event, which runs from 8pm to 11pm on November 28, is a chatterbox’s dream come true. Whether you’re a Spaniard eager to polish your English or a foreigner wanting to banter in Spanish, this lively meetup promises plenty of laughs, learning, and new friendships.

Bilingual speakers, international students, and globe-trotters alike are all welcome. If you fancy yourself a social butterfly or just want to improve

your language game, this is your chance.

Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of learning and leisure right in the heart of Marbella.

So, if you live on a ground floor, throw your dictionary out of the window and head to Bar La Escalera - where languages mingle and connections springle. Will you

master the art of conversation or just enjoy the international vibe? There’s only one way to find out. It’s the perfect chance to swap your ‘hola’ for ‘hello’ and meet people from all walks of life while sipping on your favourite tipple.

Lost in translation no more - Marbella’s hottest language event is back.

Ctra. Mijas, Urb. Las Yucas, No. 1, Mijas – Málaga

Richard Ray Farrell.

Group of excited Spanish learners smiling.

Hit the Bullseye at The Clubhouse Marbella!

EXPERIENCE darts like never before at The Clubhouse Marbella with Dartsee’s advanced, interactive dartboards. Bringing a modern twist to the classic game, these high-tech dartboards are perfect for challenging friends, family, or even yourself.

Located in the heart of Puerto Banus, The Clubhouse Marbella offers the ideal environment for dining, entertainment, and competitive socialising, making it the ultimate spot to elevate your dart game on the Costa del Sol.

These Dartsee boards go beyond traditional darts by providing multiple game modes and challenges to suit all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, there’s a game for everyone. Test your skills in classic ‘501’, or explore new modes designed to add variety and excitement to your session. The boards are equipped with advanced tracking technology to enhance gameplay, so each throw is precisely recorded and scored, allowing you to focus on the fun and strategy.

Pricing options ensure flexibility for players looking to enjoy a quick match or a longer, competitive session:

30-Minute Session: €25 - Perfect

for a quick game or a friendly challenge to warm up.

One-Hour Session: €40 - A great choice for extended play, giving you time to explore various game modes and test your skills.

Join us at The Clubhouse Marbella to throw like a pro. Whether you’re challenging friends or embracing the thrill of solo play, our Dartsee interactive boards deliver a fun, memorable experience. Aim for a winning night out

Free classical concert

IBERIAN Sinfonietta’s series of Community Concerts, bringing Classical music closer to the people, continues its series with a Classical guitarist leading the orchestra.

Coming from a family of musicians, Fuengirola presents the absolute premiere of Montenegro Airs. A concerto for guitar and orchestra by Alejandro Román with the Divertimento for string orchestra by Béla Bártok.

Born in Sevilla into a family of notable musicians, Alejandro Román began his musical training with his father, Antonio Calero, attending elementary and professional guitar degrees at the CEM conservatories. He expands his artistic training by attending international courses taught by great guitar

masters, such as Pepe Romero, David Russell, Manuel Barrueco, Roland Dyens, and Oscar Ghiglia, among others.

This event is part of the Community Concerts cycle for 202425 and features eight events in which prominent soloists and groups will join the Iberian Sinfonietta orchestra, which aims to showcase emerging orchestral talent alongside well-known Classical music artists. All the concerts in the Community Concerts cycle are free of charge, promoting access to high-quality cultural activities for everyone in Fuengirola.

The concert is open to the public free of charge on Saturday, November 30 at the Palacio de la Paz, Calle Recinto serial, Fuengirola, at 7pm. Seats will be given on a first-come-first-serve basis until the auditorium is full.

Iberian Sinfonietta of Fuengirola.

Credit: iberiansinfonietta.com

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Winter art Dinner with strangers

A FUNDRAISER event in aid of the AFESOL Estepona Mental Health association aims to raise awareness about mental health issues.

Paying tribute to the recently deceased Alfonso Hervás, art teacher and psychologist at AFESOL, the event is billed as a ‘magical moment’ the organisers have explained will consist of, highlighting the collective exhibi-

tion ‘Arte de Invierno’ that will show the latest works made by AFESOL patients under the coordination of their teacher Alfonso Hervás. Artworks will be sold at the event and the funds raised will directly to the charity organisation.

The event is taking place on Friday, November 29 at 6pm at the AFESOL building in the Arena Beach urbanisation. There will be a narration

of a Christmas story, and at 6.30pm you can enjoy the clarinet performance of Juan Jr. At 7pm it will be time for the inauguration of the Nativity scene made mostly with recycled materials at the AFESOL centre. There will also be a Christmas Market and attendees will be invited to a welcoming drink and tasting of hot mulled wine and traditional Swedish cakes.

TIRED of the same old date nights? Marbella’s Dinner with Strangers: Couples Edition is spicing things up this Friday, November 29, from 7 to 9pm at a secret location in the city.

Here’s the deal: you sign up, answer a few fun questions about your tastes and hobbies, and let the organisers book the perfect restaurant. Then, you and your partner dine with other adventurous couples, turning strangers into potential friends.

Seats are limited, with a cosy 10-person max, so don’t miss out. Dinner’s not included, but spontaneity and good company

Social meetups in Fuengirola

THIS vibrant group hosts casual meetups to connect locals, expats, and tourists alike. Think of it as a one-stop shop for making friends and exploring Fuengirola in good company.

You can stay in the loop by following them on Instagram, joining their Telegram group, or reaching out to Andrés, the organiser, through WhatsApp. Visit the gosocial.es for

details.

GoSocial’s meetups are the perfect chance to turn strangers into new

friends, whether you’re after a chat, a drink, or just a great time in sunny Fuengirola. So why not take the plunge? Make your move, meet new people, and maybe even discover a side of Fuengirola you didn’t know existed.

No one should feel lonely when a new social life is just a click away. Your new friends are waiting.

are on the menu. Will you dare to join?

Please visit the Eventbrite website for details.

Credit: Eventbrite, Ermantourage Hollywood.

Nativity scene.

Dinner with strangers: Marbella’s mystery mingle for couples.

New in Fuengirola?

GoSocial has you covered

Rotary charity golf

ROTARY CLUB Marbella Guadalmina are organising a charity golf tournament, ‘The President’s Charity Golf Cup’ at the prestigious Los Flamingos Golf Course at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Benahavis, on Monday, December 2. The 18-hole, 5,700-square-metre, par 71 layout was designed by the famous architect, Antonio Garrido.

The event has been generously sponsored by Talk Radio Europe. Other companies, including Ibex Insurance, Aaura Dental, Euro Economics, Continental Design Group, Mara Collections, Clinica,

and Dra. Matas, are also backing the event.

The charity tournament will give participants a chance to

play at this famous golf course and also help raise funds for Afesol and other charities supported by Rotary.

Registration begins between 8am and 8.45am with a maximum of 52 players. Shotgun starts at 9.30am.

Bipolar realism

ARTIST David Pascual Arroyo is giving a rare glimpse into his prolific collection of works at the Torremolinos Town Hall, where he no longer expresses pain he feels, but the light and colour of being bipolar type 1.

The paintings and drawings, promoted by AFESOL, the association of people with mental health disorders and their families, is a retrospective of the last six years of his work, and full of joy and fun, often with rich juxtaposed hues, showing a looser

and more content side of the artist, bringing an inevitable smile to the face of every viewer. The exhibition is composed of samples from two collections: Nueva Realidad - representation of before and after the pandemic; and Bipolar Circus - contrasts in emotional states.

Diptychs feature heavily in the exhibition, with one upside down or the same image painted with different colours, and others contrasting emotional states. I asked David if one of the images was

a portrait of a bipolar friend, to which he responded, ‘No, he’s just drunk in that one.’

He has marked a difference, not only in his freer style but also in his portrait of post-pandemic faces, a before and after, a contrast that is also seen in which medium he chooses.

David Pascual Arroyo’s works are on show at the Torremolinos Town Hall from Monday to Friday, 9am to 1.30pm until January 24, 2025.

Credit: Anantara Villa Padierna Palace.

AECC charity auction

THE Spanish association against cancer in Estepona is holding a fundraising auction on Friday, November 29 at 5pm.

Everything being auctioned is a donation and is brand new, including items of furniture, decorative pieces and other household items. Doors open at 5pm for bidders to eye the lots on offer, and the auctioneer will open bidding at 6pm. Bring cash to pay for successful bids. Cards are not accepted. The auction is taking place

at 170 Calle Terraza.

The AECC charity provides free services such as psychological support, workshops, help attending appointments, palliative care, physiotherapy during recovery, and help with social security or disability payments. The charity counts on more than 30,000 volunteers across the country whose work covers various areas of activity such as support, presence in hospitals or the organisation of events such as this one.

Dalí in Mijas

MIJAS is hosting an exhibition in which Salvador Dalí visits Dante Alighieri’s ‘Purgatory’. With a total of 33 works to savour and be surprised by, the exhibition of illustrations is on at the Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) until March 2025.

Locals and visitors to Mijas will be able to enjoy one of the most important projects of the surrealist painter Salvador Dalí, as he himself said in his day. Councillor Mario Bravo is encouraging everyo-

ne to take advantage of this unique opportunity to witness these marvellous works while they still can. “Everyone should come and participate in this cultural activity, where in addition, within the museum, we have a permanent exhibition of all Picasso’s ceramics and another part of the exhibition dedicated to Dalí.”

In 1965, halfway through his life, on the occasion of the 700th anniversary of Dante Alighieri’s death, Dalí received a commission

from the Italian government to illustrate the three songs that make up the ‘Divine Comedy’. A total of 33 works for each, plus one for the introduction, which make a hundred scenes of a project that brought together two geniuses and that can now be enjoyed in Mijas.

The Centro de Arte Contemporáneo in Calle Malaga, 28. Mijas, is open 10.30am to 2pm from Monday to Saturday. Entry fee is €3, and free for five years old and younger.

Credit: CAC Mijas.

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Celebrate the Festive Season at Luigi’s

RECENTLY relaunched under new ownership, Luigi’s in El Zoco is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year. This family-run restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with owner and Head Chef Ryan crafting menus that combine festive flair with culinary excellence.

For Christmas, indulge in Luigi’s special menu for €50 per person, featu ring live entertainment by Andy Time. Start with Crab, Italian Meatball Soup, or a Celeriac and Apple Salad. Choose from Venison, Traditional Turkey, or Atlantic Cod for the main course, and finish with either Chocolate Yule Log or the spectacular Baked Alaska. Limited availability remains for Christmas Day, so early booking is essential.

brunch accompanied by live entertainment from the talented James Ray. The regular menu will also be available, making it a delightful way to start 2025.

Luigi’s is open Wednesday to Friday from 6.00pm until late, and Saturday and Sunday from 12.00pm. Sunday Lunch is a popular choice, with a two-course meal for €20 or three courses for €25, including live entertainment.

On New Year’s Day, enjoy a fabulous

This vibrant new addition to the El Zoco dining scene is already receiving rave reviews for its delicious food and inviting at- mosphere. Whether celebrating with family or friends, Luigi’s is the place to be this holiday season.

To reserve your table, call 620 821 244. Celebrate the holidays with unforgettable meals and great company at Luigi’s.

New talent showcase

LEON Events in collaboration with arts collective Artsenal Inoxis, are presenting a music showcase in Alhaurín el Grande on Saturday, November 30.

This event hopes to promote highly talented upcoming local talent far from the regular hum-drum and same-old sounds at events and venues in the Malaga Province and Costa del Sol.

spin on current hits.

The showcase, being held at the art space Artsenal Inoxis in Alhaurín el Grande, starts on Saturday, November 30 at 8.30pm, and hosted by multi-faceted and delightful MC Leon Patras. There will also be DJ and singer Charlton Greene covering everything from Crooners classics to his own

Featuring the talents of Chelsea, a highly regarded singer and dancer, with Tatan the brilliant pianist; singer and pianist Azarielle will be enthralling the audience with her jazzy swing repertoire; performer Sonia Mùsica, adept with a full band or backing tracks, will be singing all-time classics; and there will be Jazz, Soul and Bossa coolness from Rebecca Lane, perfect for any occasion, the showcase will

be an eye-opener for anyone looking for original talent.

Due to an excellent response, this first showcase is already nearly fully booked; however, performers are welcome to get in touch to book the last available slot or to reserve their place on the next one, which Leon Events and Artsenal Inoxis hold every hree months.

Artsenal Inoxis is situated in Camino de la Reina 3, Alhaurín el Grande. Entry is free.

Go bananas in Benalmadena

Festive Fuengirola

FUENGIROLA’S Christmas Market begins on Friday, November 29, bringing families and children together in the Plaza de la Constitución.

This year, the Christmas Market will have 17 wooden cabins. In them, local shops will be able to offer their Christmas products to everyone, filling them with the Christmas spirit.

BENALMADENA is going absolutely ape for healthy eating this Friday, November 29, with its Día de la Fruta extravaganza. Organised by the local Delegación de

Educación, this event is all about promoting a healthy lifestyle - starting with everyone’s five-a-day.

While the details are a bit more mysterious than the Loch Ness Monster (location still under wraps), the aim is crystal clear: encouraging locals to swap crisps for kiwis and chocolate bars for bananas.

Stay tuned for updates, and remember - an apple a day might just keep the doctor (or at least your guilty conscience) away.

Opening at 8.30pm, the shops taking part in the market will begin receiving festive shoppers, and every Saturday of the market, families and children will be able to enjoy the popular ‘nevada’ fake snowstorm.

The market is opening on the same day as the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights, which takes place in the Plaza de España at 7.30pm, while shortly prior to that, at 6.30pm, the inauguration of the Nativity Scene in the museum of Fuengirola.

Simultaneously, down the road in Los Boliches, there will be Christmas music and a ‘chocolatadas’ with thick hot chocolate on offer and traditions such as the zambomba, a musical instrument almost exclusively brought out at Christmas time, along with outdoor concerts at various points of Los Boliches.

Leon Events roster of artists.

Go bananas for Benalmadena’s ‘Fruit Day.’ Credit:

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Got talent?

THE Costa del Sol wants to know your talents. Entertainment is big business, and there is plenty of room for more performers.

Everyone knows that there are many hidden talents out there looking to make their break, either to make a stunning career or just entertain and earn a little extra.

On Friday, November 29, ‘Costa del Sol’s Got Talent’ is being held at Soho in Elviria, from 2pm and 6pm each day. No matter what your age, from 18 to 80, or what your talent - model, a singer,

dancer, musician, magician, comedian - LG Marbella Events wants to know what you have to offer.

Lisa Burgess, former TV stylist, is judging alongside Lawrence and Georgina Mawdsley, owners of LG Marbella Events. They will be making their lists of talent they can call upon to entertain the Costa del Sol in 2025.

On Friday, the first round of auditions will take place, leading to a shortlist of contestants that will then return

on Saturday, November 30 for a final audition. Those that impress the most will be added to LG Marbella Event’s roster of artists and offered the possibility of working as an entertainer at events along the Costa del Sol. Events can include weddings, charity events, parties, and clubs.

So, don’t just wait to be discovered; take your talent to ‘Costa del Sol’s Got Talent’ at Soho, Elviria, Centro Comercial Pino Golf, on Friday, November 29 between 2pm and 6pm.

Benalmadena treasure hunt

DROP the stuffy maps and pushy tour guides - Benalmadena Old Town has a new trick up its cobbled sleeves. Adventurers can now embark on an interactive treasure hunt that turns the charming streets of this Andalucian gem into your personal playground.

Fancy yourself a modern-day Indiana Jones? With just your smartphone, you can dive straight into this puzzle-packed quest. Download the app, pop in your access code, and voilà - Bob’s your uncle - the Old Town is yours to uncover.

This isn’t your average sightseeing arrangement. Each clue reveals a nugget of history or a slice of a local legend, bringing Benalmadena Old Town’s ancient structures and hidden treasures to life. Think of it as your very own interactive history book - only far

more fun.

From seasoned explorers to curious newcomers, the quest caters to all. Go solo for some introspective intrigue or team up with friends to crack the clues. Whether you’re out to compete or collaborate, it’s a day out that guarantees you’ll leave with a story or two to tell.

Put your brain to work as you solve riddles and puzzles, and navigate this little corner of history. Don’t

forget to take a breather, tuck into some tapas, or snap selfies at the Old Town’s picture-perfect landmarks.

Starting point: Castillo de El-Bil-Bil, 78 Avenida Antonio Machado, 29631 Benalmadena. Refunds: Up to seven days before the event (Eventbrite fees not refundable)

Price: Please visit the Eventbrite website for details.

Community needs you this Christmas

WITH the festive season fast approaching, Asociación Hadas Caradas (The Food Fairies) are once again spreading joy to orphanages in the Malaga Province with their annual Christmas gift appeal ‘Costa Christmas Collections’.

Here’s how you can help: purchase a new gift, wrap and label it with the age and gender of the intended recipient and leave at one of the dedicated drop points for collection.

There is a significantly large number of children currently living within orphanages across Malaga and gifts are therefore being collected for both boys and girls of all ages from newborn to 18. Please remember, only new gifts are accepted. The final date for drop off is Saturday December 7 and it’s fast approaching!

We really need the community to come together and make this Christmas an unforgettable one for those less fortunate. After all, there’s no better way

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to celebrate the season than by sharing kindness and joy, so please join Hadas Caradas and help make a difference, one gift at a time.

Our Dedicated Drop Points are:

Alhaurin el Grande: Halo Spa Salon

Torremolinos-Mijas: Martins Hair & Beauty Lounge, Cazbah Live Lounge, Bar Tuta, Snack Attack Calahonda-Elviria: Fabric Boutique, Calahonda International Baptist Church (Sunday Only 11am-12noon)

Marbella-Nueva Andalucia: British International School Marbella, The Harbour Restaurant & Bar, El Banco Restaurant (Aloha)

San Pedro-Estepona: Urban Chai Café, Deb’s Kitchen, Liams Quality Meats

For more information please feel free to contact jack@hadascaradas.org or visit Hadas Caradas on Social Media.

COSTA FOOD TOURS

IT’S no secret that pairing the wrong wine with food can spoil the whole experience; food and wine are made for each other (the concept of ‘what grows together, goes together’), and there’s no better opportunity to broaden your horizons than at Christmas.

With a very diverse wine industry, a vast array of grape varieties and some great quality, you don’t need to look beyond our borders. So here’s a few suggestions for those festive pairings.

WHITE WINES

Verdejo - the go to white wine for every occasion, its typical light-bodied, fruit-forward and well-balanced acidity make it very food-friendly. An excellent accompaniment to grilled and fried seafood, vegetables, salads, fresh cheese and grilled chicken.

Spanish Wines For Christmas

Godello - A recently revived grape variety from Galicia, these straw-coloured wines with good acidity, plenty of body and a little richness are the perfect match with roast turkey, creamy chicken or pasta, aged cheeses and bolder seafood such as lobster or crab.

Albariño - Again from Galicia, these wines are very light, fresh, crisp, with high acids and of a rich, floral, and aromatic character. The quality is generally consistently high and this wine is really Spain’s ultimate match for plain seafood (think boiled shrimp, oysters, clams).

RED WINES

Mencia - Another variety that has been much revived, young Mencía wines produce fresh wines with red fruit flavours, floral aromas and moderate tannins. It’s a revelation when you try it, and works well with cured meats, cheeses and is a surprising match for suckling pig!

Aged Tempanillo - The classic grape of Rioja, but a more modern style is also favoured from Ribero del Duero. Look for aged ‘reserva’ which offers a bit more character and think fruity and smooth with cherry, vanilla and good tannins. Perfect with beef and aged cheeses. Young Garnacha - Garnacha without ageing is very versatile. Flavours of strawberry and red grapefruit, moderate tannins and medium body make it very appealing. Great with cured meats and cheeses, but if you want a red with your roast turkey, this is the one.

To finish, with rich desserts, look no further than Malaga Dulce; the esteemed red dessert wine from Malaga which may just surprise you. And of course at midnight, don’t forget the Cava.

For the biggest choices around El Corte Ingles (and bigger Supercor), Al Campo and independent wine merchants are your best bet. However, don’t dismiss the discount retailers, both Aldi and Lidl have some great wines at exceptional prices. Experiment and elevate your dining experience this Christmas!

Social Christmas Lunch Marbella

MARK your calendars, as the first Christmas party of 2024 is heading to the one and only Paellas y Más - and trust us, it’s going to be a treat.

For just €35 a head, you’re in for a proper festive feast. Here’s the rundown:

Four delicious starters to share.

Five mouth-watering main dishes to pick from, including their famously tasty paellas.

Dessert, coffee, water, and wine, plus a large glass of wine with three hours of drinks included.

Feeling extra thirsty? Additional drinks can be ordered on the spot and paid for when they arrive.

Here’s the catch - it’s not a party without you. The group needs at least eight people to lock in this festive event, so RSVP quickly. Payment seals your spot, so don’t hang about.

In true Christmas spirit, an extra €2 will be added to the cost of your lunch for a wonderful cause. The funds go straight to the Fluffy Protection Fund to bring some festive cheer to rescued animals. As of October 31, the fund sits at €110.

But wait, hold on to your Christmas socks Sally Cinnamon, because there’s a twist to this tale; Hosts Mike and Co. will double whatever you contribute before Christmas.

For more info, head over to: www.meetup. com/es/marbella-food-and-wine-shenini gans

• RSVP deadline: Saturday, November 30, by 6 pm

• Festive lunch: Sunday, December 8, from 2pm to 5pm CET

• Location: Restaurante Paellas y Más, C. Hermanos Salom, 3, Marbella.

Abstract expressionism

CASA DE LA CULTURE in Torremolinos is hosting an exhibition of the abstract artist

Juan Bautista Galindo from November 22, to January 17, 2025.

The exhibition ‘Impressions and Colour’, by the Roquetas de Mar artist is just a sample of this prolific contemporary artist’s work in which he shows a space where colour comes to life in every corner and in every work.

The vibrant world of tones and forms unfolds before the viewer, inviting them to explore unique emotions, ideas, and perspectives.

Each piece is an outburst of creativity and expression that seeks to challenge perception

and awaken the senses.

In Bautista’s works, colour is not only a medium but also a language. Through bold contrasts, surprising combinations, and dynamic textures, each work immerses the viewer in a different universe, where the visual connects with the emotional and the conceptual.

Juan Bautista Galindo

lives in Roquetas de Mar (Almeria). He studied at the La Llotja Higher School of Fine Arts in Barcelona and finished with an honourable mention.

He was also a student of the painter Felix Revello del Toro.

This exhibition can be visited for free from Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm and from 3pm to 9pm.

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torremolinos.

IF you’re in Fuengirola and fancy a night of belting out tunes, throwing darts, or simply having a laugh, Match-Inn is where you need to be.

Mark your calendar for the last Friday of every month, when this lively spot transforms into a haven for karaoke

Karaoke fever

lovers, wannabe superstars, and those who just enjoy watching the show. Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or a screeching foghorn, this night is all about having a giggle and ma-

king memories. Expect plenty of singing, silliness, and a proper good time.

Not a singer? No worries.

If standing under the spotlight isn’t your thing, don’t fret. The MatchInn has pool, darts, and a cracking atmosphere to keep you entertained. And here’s the kicker - GoSocial members, get their first pint on the house.

La Sala Lunch and Market

LA SALA is celebrating a Christmas luncheon and market in aid of AIM Sanctuary, a charity that provides quality care for animals in the Costa del Sol.

When: Every Last Friday of the Month. Next event: Friday, November 29.

Time: 10.30pm

Where: Match-Inn, Fuengirola

On Thursday, December 5, beginning at 1.30pm at La Sala, Puerto Banus. For €39 per person, €10 of which will go directly to AIM, there will be a hree-course Christmas lunch with free flowing wine, beer, and cava from 2pm to 4pm.

Christmas decorations; Bella Beautiful World Christmas cards; jewellery by Monde by Monde; Christmas treats from La Dispense de la Meme; Champagne Lifestyle fashions; and many more stalls with everything you need to complete your Christmas shopping list.

Alongside the Christmas lunch, expect a charity raffle, festive sounds from a Christmas choir, fashion from Adele, and a Champagne Lifestyle’s Helen Stanley curated Christmas market. Stalls will include Beverly Beethoven selling handmade Christmas trees made of baubles and accessories as well as

AIM is a brand new registered charity based in Marbella with an experienced team of animal lovers dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of dogs in need, from puppies to oldies. They have identified areas of support that are needed the most for animals (predominantly canines) along the coast and beyond.

Reservations can be made at la salabanus.com or by calling 952 814 145.

With limited space, you’ll want to book your spot quicker than you can say “Don’t Stop Believin’!” If you need to pull a no-show, do the right thing and cancel, so someone else can grab the mic.

For more details visit the GoSocial website.

Be bedazzled: Malaga’s

Chinese Lantern Festival

ONLY in Malaga will you find a unique experience like this one. This sensational light spectacle inspired by the renowned Chinese lanterns festival will mark the end of the Chinese New Year, whilst bringing magic to the stage and more importantly, dazzlingly brilliant illuminations.

Also known as the Spring Festival, this light extravaganza will feature all shapes and sizes of beautifully crafted light displays. Each figure has been carefully designed so as to transmit a story and through light and colour.

2025 will be celebrating the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, richness, prudence and longevity. So, don’t forget to look out for that one!

The Lantern Festival (Festival de las Linternas) will be arriving

to Malaga for the first time from November 30 to fill the Parque Oeste with colour, vitality and a taste of Chinese tradition.

Ticket prices will start from €14.

Tickets can be purchased from the festi valdelaslinternas.com website or directly from the Corte Inglés online box office.

Don’t miss this unforgettable display!

See you there at: Parque del Oeste de Malaga

November 30 to February 15 Show times: 6pm, 7.15pm, 8.30pm and 9.45pm

Residents of Malaga get a 10% discount and there are discounts are available.

Malaga’s own Chinese Lantern Festival will illuminate the Parque del Oeste this winter.

Glory of Christmas

THIS December, join the Choir and Orchestra Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol for a festive celebration of music from the 17th century to the present day together with Bach’s Concerto for 2 Violins.

Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol will warmly welcome everyone to enter into the spirit of the Christmas season with them in one of two beautiful settings. The first performance is on Sunday, December 8 at 7.30pm at the Salon Real of the IPV Palace and Spa Hotel in Fuengirola. Tickets for the Fuengirola concert are €12 (free entry for under 16s) and are available from the IPV Palace Hotel, Lepanto Café, Fuengirola (main street). Also from members of Collegium Musicum who are able to sell tickets, and they will be available on the door from 7pm, or by e-mail to info@colmus.org

The second performance is in aid of the charity Cáritas Encarnación and will be on Tuesday, December 10 at 8.30pm in the Church of the Encarnación in Marbella and on Tuesday, December 10 at 8.30pm in Marbella. The concert is being given for free, while a collection will be made for Cáritas at the end.

THE Benalmadena Pre-Columbian Museum (Benalmadena’s Museo Precolombino) is serving up festive cheer with its traditional Mexican-style nativity scene exhibition, running from November 29, to January 10, 2025.

The Benalmadena Pre-Columbian Museum (Museo Precolombino) is jingling all the way this festive season with its traditional Mexican-style

Astrology meets feelings

IT’S time to get emotional about the horoscope.

Feeling a bit cosmic? Get ready for a wild ride. Head to the Manuel Altolaguirre Library in Benalmadena on Thursday, November 28, for Entre Nosotras, a three-hour workshop promising a stellar mix of group chatter about feelings and some seriously artsy vibes. From 10am to 1pm, attendees will unleash their inner Picasso while dabbling in astrology and talking about their feelings.

Spaces are limited, so be quick - no one wants to be the Capricorn left out in the cold. To book your spot, pop into the library. Who knows? Maybe Mercury will send some inspiration your way.

Mexican nativity scene

nativity scene exhibition, running from November 29 to January 10, 2025.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Spanish or British nativity scene - expect unique touches like a flower seller peddling calla lilies and a cheeky child smashing a piñata. It’s a cul-

tural twist that promises to dazzle locals and tourists alike.

Even better, entry is absolutely free, so there’s no excuse not to stop by. Whether you’re here for the season or just fancy a peek at something different, this is one ‘Belén’ worth making time for.

Choir and Orchestra Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol.

Elliott Wright delivers charity funds to Red Cross

Elliott Wright donates funds to Red Cross Mijas following charity gala for Valencia flood victims

TELEVISION personality and restauranteur Elliott Wright has once again demonstrated his commitment to philanthropy as he headed down to the Red Cross in Mijas to hand over the money raised at his very successful charity gala. The funds were raised at a special event at Wright’s restaurant Olivia’s in La Cala de Mijas in aid of those affected by the recent storm Dana floods in Valencia.

The charity gala, which raised over €30,000 for the Red Cross’ Valencia appeal, was a key initiative hosted by Wright to support those impacted by the devastating floods that swept through Valencia. The money will go towards providing essential aid to the victims, including emergency supplies, bedding and blankets and temporary housing. In addition to the money raised, Elliott Wright has also loaded up a van with items donated by the community, and personally delivered them to Valencia’s Red Cross collection point.

Wright’s ongoing charitable efforts have had a meaningful impact in supporting those in need, while also raising awareness and inspiring others to come together and contribute in any way they can.

The money raised was handed over by Wright in person during a visit to the Red Cross centre in Mijas on November 22, alongside Steven Euesden, who represented Euro Weekly News. The pair were welcomed

opportunity to chat with Maria from the Red Cross team, who explained further about the organisation’s ongoing work. Maria shared some insights into their other current projects, including offering shelter and support for individuals experiencing homelessness or vulnerability, as well as organising activities that encourage social inclusion, such as leisure programmes, academic assistance, and job search support for those in need.

by a warm and appreciative team of Red Cross workers, who have been tirelessly helping those in need across the region.

After presenting the donation, Wright and Euesden took the

Wright’s visit to the Mijas Red Cross centre serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. His charitable efforts and call to action encourage others to contribute to charitable causes, whether it be through volunteering, making donations, or simply raising awareness. If you would like to donate to the Red Cross, or find out how to take part and help out, visit https://www.cruzroja.es/ inicio-web/

Elliott Wright and Steven Euesden present the donations to Ander Echebarria from the Red Cross team.

Energise your mind

IN an era where mental health challenges are on the rise, exercise is emerging as a powerful tool for enhancing mental wellness. Research consistently shows that physical activity can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression while boosting overall mood.

Regular exercise triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as ‘feel-good’ hormones, which can create feelings of happiness and euphoria. Activities such as running, cycling, and even brisk walking have been linked to improved mental clarity and reduced stress levels. A recent study found that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, several

times a week, can have a profound impact on mental well-being.

Experts recommend incorporating a variety of activities to keep things enjoyable - whether it’s joining a local sports club, practising yoga, or simply taking daily walks. Not only does exercise provide physical benefits, but it also fosters social connections, which are essential for mental health.

Health tests

As more people recognise the mind-body connection, prioritising physical activity as a fundamental aspect of mental wellness is becoming increasingly vital. Embracing exercise can be a transformative step toward a healthier mind and a happier life.

SOMETIMES we forget to pay the required attention to our health thereby forgetting to perform routine health checks.

In our clinic not only will you find the best health care professionals who can help you with this, but they will also help you obtain results quickly.

You will find the best professionals and the fastest results.

Don’t leave it any longer, if you were thinking about visiting a specialist, call us and let’s schedule an appointment for you!

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Ice cold bliss

known as winter swimming, is gaining popularity for its health benefits. Immersing in cold water - typically below 15°C (59°F)can boost mental and physical health. Exposure to cold water triggers a release of endorphins, which can help lift mood, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. Regular cold-water swimmers often report feeling more energised and resilient.

For beginners, starting safely is essential. Gradual exposure is key; begin by dipping into cooler water for just a few minutes and slowly increase your time and frequency.

suit or gloves can help maintain comfort and prevent shock from the cold. Breathing techniques are also important; try to stay calm and regulate your breathing to reduce the body’s shock response.

From a physical perspective, cold water immersion improves circulation and reduces inflammation. It’s recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have any heart conditions, as cold water can put stress on the body.

With patience and safety in mind, cold water swimming can be an invigorating and rewarding experience.

Timeless elegance

VICTORIAN hairstyles are making a stunning comeback, blending vintage elegance with modern flair. Known for their intricate details, romantic curls, and voluminous updos, these hairstyles

are being reimagined for today’s fashion-forward enthusiasts. Central to this revival are soft waves, inspired by the luxurious, cascading curls Victorian women adored. Modern tools like curling wands make achieving this timeless look both effortless and stylish.

Another trend is the resurgence of braided accents. From crown braids to braided chignons, these styles evoke the regal charm of the Victorian era while adding a contemporary twist. Sleek, polished buns and low ponytails with ornate accessories, such as pearl pins or lace ribbons, also channel the refined sophistication of the period.

For special occasions, consider a Gibson tuck or a loose, romantic updo adorned with florals or vintage-inspired combs. These hairstyles pair beautifully with modern outfits, adding a touch of elegance and nostalgia. The Victorian aesthetic is all about balancing intricate detail with effortless beauty, making these styles a perfect nod to the past with a fresh, wearable twist.

Butterfly skin fundraising

DEBRA, a Spanish charity dedicated to supporting families affected by butterfly skin, is launching a fundraising campaign to recruit a new psychologist.

Currently, the organisation is calling out to generous members of the public, and those versed in organising fundraising events, to help them meet their target of €23,000.

Butterfly skin, or epidermolysis bullosa (EB), is a rare, incurable, and genetic disease affecting 500 people in Spain. The condition causes blistering and painful open wounds, requiring daily bandaging and morphine.

DEBRA aims to raise €23,000 to expand their team with a new psychologist to support over 350 families around the country.

The need for a psychologist is urgent due to the unbearable pain, fear, desperation, rejection, and uncertainty experienced by sufferers and their families. The charity’s mental health team is dedicated to supporting families in person or online, and has a 24-hour emergency helpline.

If over 1,000 people donate €23 each, DEBRA can raise the €23,000 desperately needed to employ the new psychologist for their specialist team to support families and sufferers.

This fundraising challenge can be found on migranodearena.org. Videos and photographs produced by Martin Corradini will be published on social media @butterflyskin until the end of November.

A hearty snack

NUTS are a heart-healthy snack packed with nutrients, healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants. Consuming nuts regularly has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease by improving cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting blood vessel health.

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are especially beneficial. Almonds are rich in vitamin E and magnesium, which help lower LDL cholesterol (the ‘bad’ cholesterol) while boosting HDL (the ‘good’ cholesterol).

Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for reducing inflammation and supporting heart function. Pistachios can lower blood pressure and improve vascular health.

A recommended serving size is about one ounce or a small handful (roughly 20-30 nuts), pro-

viding ample heart benefits without excessive calorie intake. Opting for unsalted, raw, or lightly roasted nuts can maximise health benefits. However, avoid nuts coated in sugar, exces-

sive salt, or processed with unhealthy oils, such as candied pecans or honey-roasted peanuts. Consuming such varieties regularly may counteract the positive cardiovascular effects of nuts.

Costa Blanca North The Monaco of Spain

COSTA BLANCA NORTH is fast emerging as a highly desirable option for luxury buyers. In fact, so much so, that it is now listed alongside Malaga, the Balearic Islands, Madrid and Barcelona as representing the pinnacle of luxury real estate in Spain.

Each offers unique lifestyle opportunities and investment potential for discerning buyers. When it comes to Costa Blanca North, this area is celebrated for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect blend of leisure and investment potential.

With picturesque towns like Altea and Moraira, luxury villas and upscale communities are flourishing in this region. However, it is Javea that is making headlines for enticing affluent individuals, including actors, musicians, and professional athletes. With properties on the market for in excess of €6 million, it is no wonder it is attracting such an influx of wealth.

Affectionately known informally as the ‘Monaco of Spain’, Javea has a renowned upscale reputation.

Axarquia

Nerja v gender violence

NERJA has been collaborating in the battle against gender violence. To commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which took place on November 25, Nerja has ratified its commitment to the cause in a very special manifesto.

The local manifesto which had been drawn up conscientiously to reflect changing times and the current situation regarding gender violence in Spain was read allowed in Nerja’s town hall. It remembered the 41 women and eight minors who died at the hands of gender violence this year alone.

Women’s associations in collaboration with the Municipal Women’s Information Centre organised a moving tribute to victims of gender violence who were named and flowers and toys were placed in the Cerote tree on the Balcon de Europa in their memory.

Rather than being a sad reflection on a society still scourged by sexist violence, the day served as a reaffirmation that things are changing.

Mallorca

Britain extends season

THE Balearics ranked as the 6 per cent most popular Spanish destination for the week of October 7-13, accounting for 5.8-8.3 per cent of total bookings, according to the data sourced by booking platform TravelgateX.

The study shows a contrasting picture of booking trends for the Balearic Islands. Long-range bookings have fallen, with an overall 5.3 per cent decline in bookings compared to the same period in 2023. However, there has been a late surge in British tourism, with bookings increasing by 27 per cent in the past week, likely driven by warm October weather with temperatures reaching 30ºC in Mallorca.

Booking trends highlight diverse travel planning preferences: 28.2 per cent of bookings were made over three months in advance;12.6 per cent were made one to two months prior, and last-minute bookings accounted for 13.8 per cent.

This growing trend of unprompted travel has fueled the surge in bookings.

Costa Blanca South Expats choose Alicante

IN the 2024 Expat City Ranking by InterNations, Alicante secured the third spot among the best cities to live worldwide.

This annual report is based on feedback from over 12,500 expatriates living in 53 cities across 35 countries.

The ranking evaluates key factors such as quality of life, ease of settling in, affordability, and personal finance.

Alicante is celebrated for its affordable lifestyle, warm climate, and relaxed pace of life that appeals to expats from all over the world. The city ranks seventh in the ‘Expat Essentials Index’, which highlights the availability of affordable housing and efficient digital infrastructure.

Expats also find Alicante easy to navigate, with public transportation and digital services receiving high marks. This accessibility, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, makes it easier for newcomers to settle in and enjoy their new surroundings.

Almeria

Stars celebrate cinema

ALMERIA wrapped up its 23rd International Film Festival (FICAL 2024) with a star-studded closing gala, celebrating the best of Spain’s thriving film and TV industry. The event brought together over 600 professionals, including big names like Carmen Machi, Karra Elejalde, and Najwa Nimri, who praised the region’s stunning landscapes and the warm welcome from locals.

Held at the Maestro Padilla Auditorium, the gala showcased the province’s natural beauty as a filming destination. Highlights included awards for emerging filmmakers and series that captivated audiences. The feature film La Estrella Azul (The Blue Star) received top honours, including Best Film and Best Director, while popular TV shows were also recognised for their cultural impact.

The festival’s highlight was the ‘Almeria, Land of Cinema’ award, given to Karra Elejalde for his outstanding career. Earlier, he unveiled his star on the Walk of Fame, a nod to Almeria’s growing appeal as a film hub.

MURCIA’s festive season kicked off with a touching tribute to Valencia, still recovering from recent DANA storms. During the Christmas light switch-on at Plaza de Santo Domingo, key buildings lit up in Valencia’s flag colours, recognising the region’s struggles and the teams from Murcia who helped with recovery efforts.

The square was packed with locals and visitors enjoying the event, which featured a stunning light display and festive carols performed by the flamenco group Raya Real. Mayor José Ballesta praised Murcia’s community spirit, saying, “Murcians know how to give their all. Our generosity is what makes Christmas here so special.”

This year’s decorations bring traditional holiday magic to life with over 1,300 light displays spread across the city and its 59 districts. Two 10-metre-tall angels now stand at the entrance to Calle Trapería, while other streets dazzle with brandnew designs.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European - fashion designer, Amy Molyneaux

BRITISH fashion designer, Amy Molyneaux, best known for her immutable VIP girl dresses, lives in Madrid. Euro Weekly News met Amy to discuss life and culture in Spain compared to the UK.

EWN: What are the biggest cultural differences?

Amy: “If someone had a shop that was really struggling, I would say, ‘let’s do an event together’. Here they don’t really do that. But mostly in Madrid, not all of Spain. What I love is restaurants in that with children in Spain they li terally swing open the fire escape, move tables out of the way to get you and the pushchair in, and they put you in the best spot ever. In Britain it’s like children should be seen and not heard.”

EWN: Do your kids notice much difference?

Amy: “Carlos (her son) doesn’t get

why we live in a flat. In Madrid he can’t go out and play in the garden.”

EWN: What’s something weird about Spanish life?

Amy: “In the area we live there are a lot of families that dress their children the same, usually like the Von Trapp family. You don’t really see that in the UK.”

EWN: Would you ever go back to the UK to live?

Amy: “Yeah, I just don’t have a plan for it at the moment. The children are settled in school and Carlos is really excelling. I wouldn’t want to take him out of school just for my sake.”

Hannibal’s Spanish showdown!

THIS is a story about Hannibal. No, not my bank manager called Hannibal (really, some parents!) but that other ‘Hannibal’.

Recent digs in Catalonia have uncovered clues to Hannibal’s epic 218 BC march across the Spanish Pyrenees to attack Italy. The 27-year-old Carthaginian commander, famous for his daring strategies, led an army that likely razed a settlement at Tossal de Baltarga, a key site in northern Spain.

While his Alpine crossing is legendary, Hannibal’s route through the Pyrenees remains murky. Charred remains at Tossal de Baltarga hint at deliberate destruction, reinforcing historical accounts of brutal conflicts with local tribes.

Hannibal’s tactical brilliance peaked at the Battle of Cannae where his 50,000 troops encircled and massacred 80,000 Romans. This devastating defeat was a masterclass in military strategy, Hannibal annihilating his Ro-

JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

man enemies and cementing his place in history.

Reviewing the past isn’t easy. And whatever you think about Hannibal’s massacres, maybe we should give the man a break.

Consider how other historical figures have been rehabilitated. Henry VIII ‘wasn’t such a wrong ‘un’: a Tudor historian has claimed that, aside from ‘marrying his brother’s missus, bankrupting the country, being mean to the Pope and executing two wives’, the monarch was a ‘well-mannered fella’. You can almost hear today’s tyrants sighing with relief at how they’ll be reassessed...

And please, don’t forget EWN’s call for #CompassionThisChristmas!

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.

Amy Molyneaux.

Credit: Studio Molyneaux

PETS

Talisker feels safe when the pet-sitters are in the

house

TALISKER is a rather possessive cat and can get anxious in a cattery where he doesn’t feel at home. When his owners travel away from home, he prefers to stay at home looking after the pet-sitter and the three other resident felines, Lossit, Monty and Grouse. Talisker is very much in charge and always present making himself available to help the sitter in any capacity that might be needed.

HouseSitMatch Saves You Money - Pet-sitting is Free

If you use HouseSitMatch you find free checked petsitters 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 2025 join now and get organised today:

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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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Pet-friendly travel in Spain

TRANSPORTING pets in cars can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities, especially in Spain, where regulations mandate the safe transport of animals. To ensure a safe journey for both pets and drivers, here are some essential guidelines. First, pets must be restrained while travelling. This can be achieved using a pet seatbelt, a harness, or a secure carrier. These measures prevent distractions and protect pets in the event of sudden stops. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in fines of up to €500. Before setting off, ensure your pet is comfortable in their restraint system. Gradually acclimatising them to the carrier or harness at home can help reduce anxiety. It’s also important to never leave pets unattended in the car, especially on warm days, as temperatures can quickly become

dangerous. Plan regular breaks to allow your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Lastly, make sure your pet has proper identification, such as a microchip or tags, in case they escape during stops. By following these guidelines, pet owners can ensure safe and enjoyable journeys throughout Spain.

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

REMOVALS & STORAGE

REMOVALS

Defender - impressive, assured, capable

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

IT was one of the most eagerly anticipated launches in recent years, it followed on from a truly iconic predecessor that had a worldwide following and a history from back in the immediate post war years. The new Defender had a lot to live up to, and I think it fair to say it has done the job. Initial criticism about it being a ‘soft’ version of the original was arguably right but missed the point that Land Rover has moved all its products upmarket and the Defender was the last of the old guard.

Unbelievably it is not far short of five years since the first new Defender models were delivered to eager customers. While they have become a more common sight on the road, they still retain a certain head turning ability. The range has grown and now encompasses three wheelbase variants from the 90 through to the more heavyweight 130 and there’s the traditional power sources of petrol and diesel but with the addition of both mild and plugin hybrid. There’s even a V8 in the petrol line-up

Prices start from a not inconsiderable €70,100/£58,310 for the lead-in Defender 90, even the commercial version starts at €69,030/£57,420. There is a plethora of

optional extras that can mount alarmingly on the cost front to the extent you’d think the folk at Land Rover have been taking lessons from German motor manufacturers.

The standard specification across the range is actually quite good and the interior looks and feels special. There’s lots of space, an open dash incorporating a central touchscreen and storage, and also buttons. Hallelujah! The touchscreen provides near perfect clarity and is intuitive in

its operation, not something one can say about many such systems.

The Defender is big! However, its large size, especially in 110 form as tested, means it’s a surprise how easily it is guided through any situation whether on or off-road.

Part of that ease is undoubtedly the excellent visibility and on-board assistance tech, however it’s also down to the steering and confidence inspiring ride.

My 110 X-Dynamic SE test model costs

FACTS AT A GLANCE

• Model: Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE

• Engine:3.0-litre, 6-cylinder twin turbo diesel developing 252PS and with mild hybrid assistance.

• Gears: 8-speed automatic

• Price: €81,479/£67,820

• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62 mph 7.9 seconds/Max speed 188 kph/117 mph

• Economy: 7.17 l/100km –32.8 mpg

• Emissions: 225 g/km

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

from €81,479/£67,820, and its 3.0-litre straight six diesel engine, and smooth changing eight-speed automatic transmission, is immensely capable.

Point the Defender in any direction, quite literally as roads not necessarily required, and it’s an impressive and comfortable cruiser, assured off-roader and capable load carrier. It should be given the pricing, but the Defender is an object lesson in how to produce a car for all seasons and all occasions.

The Defender is an impressive and comfortable cruiser.

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

A happy weekend for Captain Fran and Malaga WFC!

AWFL Over 50s

Internacionales Mollina 3 v 4

Malaga WFC

A fast start to the game saw both teams create openings without any meaningful shots being taken. It took four running offences by the hosts to give Malaga the lead through the resulting penalty, scored by captain Fran. Mollina soon equalised with a fi ne goal from Steve Webster. However, the visitors soon nosed in front again with a defl ected shot from a free kick by Fran.

After the break, Mollina drew level with a Paul Blackwell penalty but Malaga went into the lead once more with a second penalty from Fran for an incursion into the keeper’s area, and further extended their lead through another Fran free kick to give him his fourth! Blackwell pulled another back for the home side, who then threatened to equalise yet again. But it was not to be as Malaga hung on for the win!

AWFL Over 60s

Nerja United 4 v 5 Malaga WFC

Nerja were left to rue a host of missed chances and lapses in discipline as Malaga claimed a dramatic victory in the dying mo-

Max Verstappen crowned

FORMULA 1 fans across Europe had to set their alarms for an early start on Sunday morning November 24 if they wanted to see the Las Vegas F1 race live. However, those that did were rewarded with the crowning of the World Champion of 2024, as Max Verstappen racing for Red Bull earned the coveted title for an impressive fourth time, marking his fourth consecutive title win.

Verstappen knew that in order to secure the title, he needed to finish ahead of title rival Lando Norris in the McLaren. This he managed to achieve with his fifth-place position, as Norris ended the race in sixth place. This put his points tally for the season so far at 403 points, with his nearest rival on 340 points. Verstappen’s 2024 season includes victories in nine of the 22 races. This included a dominant start to the season with wins in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, Emilia-Romagna, Canada, and Spain.

ments. Dave Burgess gave the hosts a perfect start by smashing in a superb strike off the post. With Nerja missing decent chances, they gave the visitors a penalty for running offences, which was converted by Scott Cousins. With a Malaga player sin-binned for a deliberate handball, Nerja took advantage and scored through a close range strike from Mick Sweeney. However, Malaga equalised again through Cousins from the penalty spot before half time. Soon after the break,

Nerja’s Tony Wells converted a penalty to regain the lead and quickly extended it with a spectacular long-range effort to make it 4-2. However, the home side sank into disarray, with multiple players sin-binned for dissent, and this allowed Malaga to strike back with a free kick from Cousins from the edge of the box, giving him his hat-trick!

Mark Sargent then equalised for the visitors with a defl ected free kick which wrong-footed the keeper. Malaga pushed forward, forcing more defensive errors, culminating in an unfortunate Nerja own goal to earn the visitors a hard fought win.

See you next week!

Verstappen secured a podium first at Sao Paulo 2024, keeping his title bid alive.

Credit: Shutterstock: Michael Potts F1