Palma sets sights on America
“New era for tourism”
THE Fundación Turisme Palma 365 has announced that the North American market will be its primary focus in 2025, with a budget of €1.5 million confirmed for the upcoming year.
This strategic shift is aimed at capitalising on the high-spending, culture-oriented profile of North American tourists.
The connection with New York, currently serviced by United Airlines with three weekly flights, will see an increase to four flights per week starting in May 2025. However, the long-term goal for Palma City Council is to establish daily flights throughout the year.
To strengthen its presence in the North American market, the foundation plans to open a communications agency in New York, similar to its existing
agencies in Berlin, London, and Madrid, which cater to the German, British, and domestic markets.
Additionally, a promotional trip to New York is scheduled for late February 2025. This trip will include a delegation of trustees and local business representatives.
The itinerary will feature meetings with tour operators and members of the specialist travel press.
Beyond the North American initiative, the Fundación Turisme Palma 365 is also working to enhance connectivity with North Africa, focusing on Tangiers. This follows the
twinning agreement signed with the city last September.
The emphasis on strengthening Palma’s international links reflects the city’s commitment to broadening its tourism appeal and fostering global connectivity for both visitors and residents.
Gear up for the first charity ride
“Rolling out in Mallorca 2025”
CYCLING enthusiasts on the islands can now prepare their bikes for the first Charity Cycle Ride 2025 in Mallorca.
Berthon Spain, in partnership with 6Points Cycling Challenges and with the support of e3Systems and Marine Results, is organising this charity ride in aid of the Mallorcan charity Yachting Gives Back.
This exciting event brings together the worlds of sailing and cycling on the island. It will take place on January 18 at 9.00am, starting from the Vino del Mar restau-
rant in Port Adriano. Participants can choose from three routes: approximately 40km, 50km, and 65km.
The event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 50 cyclists, so be sure to register early to secure your place. A minimum
donation of €35 is required, which must be paid in advance to confirm your booking. For more information on how to register, visit the Berthon Spain Facebook page. It’s time to pump up the tyres!
Nautical leader in Spain
NEITHER the renowned America’s Cup in Barcelona nor the glamour of Puerto Banus and the Costa Brava surpass the Balearics as the leading hub of the nautical sector.
The Balearics accounted for 18 per cent of recreational boat registrations in Spain up to November 2024. With 878 registrations, the archipelago is ahead of Barcelona (11.1 per cent) and Madrid (6.7 per cent).
Nationally, the market recorded 4,883 registrations from January to November 2024. These figures are derived from a report by ANEN, based on data from the Dirección General de la Marina Mercante.
The charter market remains a cornerstone of the Balearic dominance, accounting for 27.2 per cent of all charter registrations, it retains a significant lead over Barcelona (11.9 per cent) and Girona (8.8 per cent).
This growth in the nautical sector has had an impact on the marine employment. Over the past six years, the workforce has grown by 80 per cent, rising from 3,000 to 5,500 employees. Furthermore, the industry achieved a turnover of €1.1 billion in 2023, €460 million of which was generated by the construction and repair of boats at Palma’s Moll Vell.
Mallorca • Issue No. 2058 • 12 - 18 Dec 2024 FREE
FREI GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS
Regular flights to the US.
Photo: Facebook/United
How Santander Insurance quietly used an Irish-based company to get a bumper €100 million payout
By Paul O’Donoghue
SPANISH firm Santander Insurance has received payments of nearly €100 million over the last three years from the Irish-based business it co-owns.
CNP Santander Insurance Life [CNPS] declared €104 million in dividends in 2023, accounts for the company show.
The firm is a Dublin-based business which sells insurance products in 12 European countries, including Spain, Italy and Austria.
The dividend payout was divided among the two CNPS shareholders. Santander Insurance, which owns 49 per cent of the firm, received €51 million.
French insurance business CNP Assurances, which holds the remaining 51 per cent, got €53 million.
The 2023 payday came after CNPS declared a €30 million dividend in 2022 and one worth €60 million at the start of 2024.
The three payments, worth a combined €194 million, mean that Santander Insurance received €95 million over the threeyear period with its 49 per cent shareholding.
CNPS recorded a strong year in 2023 with profits of €64.4 million - a €10 million increase compared to the €54.4 million it recorded in 2022.
The business paid corporate tax in Ireland of slightly over €8 million in 2023, in line with the country’s corporate tax rate of 12.5 per cent.
This compares to 25 per cent in Spain and France, where shareholders Santander and CNP Assurances are based.
The lower corporate tax rate helped CNP Santander Insurance Life build up larger profits over the years, which it is now paying out in the form of annual dividends.
The Irish entity was established by Santander Insurance in 2010 and authorised
by the Central Bank of Ireland in June 2011.
CNPS grew quickly after being established - by 2014 it had annual income of €135 million, which almost doubled the next year.
It was fully owned by Santander Insurance until December 2014, when CNP Assurances acquired its 51 per cent stake.
Asked why Santander Insurance decided to establish the corporate entity in Ireland, despite the fact that it does not sell insurance products in that market, Santander declined to comment.
CNPS has over 100 staff based in Dublin, moving to a new office in the Irish capital last year.
In January, it announced plans to ‘develop digital distribution solutions’ with YOLO Group, a fintech company
The move came after the 2023 accounts for CNPS noted that despite higher profits in 2023, its revenue dropped - from €448 million in 2022 to €392 million in 2023.
A note attached to the accounts said the 13 per cent decrease in sales was due to a ‘change in strategic focus’, as the company looks to place more of emphasis on its non-life insurance products.
Spain was the company’s biggest market in 2023, accounting for €43.4 million in insurance premiums.
Santander received a bumper payout.
“Calls
for smartphones to carry warning labels”
JUST like alcohol, junk food and tobacco, smartphones should carry a health warning says the Spanish government amid concerns from doctors around screen time and new data revealing we spend 12 years of our lives in front of a screen.
Spain’s government purports that smartphones sold in Spain should come with a label, which alerts users and parents to their potential health impacts. This is included in the same report, which states that doctors should be more collaborative in combatting excessive smartphone use and its many associated new pseudo illnesses like Facebook addiction and other social media syndromes.
As Spain pushes for limits to children’s exposure to te chnology including social media, gambling and porn si tes, in line with other European countries, there is a call for minors to have limited access overall to digital devi ces until they are 13 years old. In fact, so utterly shocking have recent figures and analyses about screen time been, that it is now being considered a public health problem – a national pandemic. The government pushes to ban digital devices for children under three years of age and for children under six, this should be in small doses. For children between the ages of six years and 12, parents
Spain’s government calls for bans on digital devices and health warnings on smartphones
are encouraged to facilitate “dumb phones” stripped of internet access to allow for calls and messaging only.
The next move calls for warning labels of the health risks and for doctors to carry out regular check ups.
Hacienda clamps down
“Another blow to self-employed workers”
IN a move that’s left self-employed workers scratching their heads, the Spanish tax office, Hacienda, has dropped a bombshell: banks must now report every single payment made to self-employed clients, even those under the previous €3,000 threshold, according to a report from Spanish media outlet Cope.
The unexpected mea-
sure slipped quietly into a royal decree that also tweaks corporate tax rates for multinationals, which means the taxman will have eyes on transactions of any amount, whether through traditional methods or modern mobile systems like the popular Bizum.
For years, banks only raised the alarm for transactions over €3,000. As
José María Peláez, a spokesperson for the Sta-
te Inspectors Association, previously explained, withdrawing amounts under this limit typically didn’t require identification. “When you take out €2,000 or €2,500, no one asks questions. But take out €3,000, and they start filling out forms,” Peláez said.
Now, that €3,000 cushion has been binned - but only for the self-employed.
“This is a surprise measure,” said La Linterna host Ángel Expósito, who, alongside economic journalist Pilar García de la Granja, broke the news. “Banks will need to report all payments to the self-employed on a monthly basis, regardless of the amount.”
The announcement has left self-employed workers fuming, with many branding it another blow to an already strained group.
Leroy Merlin scam alert
Smartphone crackdown Festive fine surge
SCAMMERS are once again using Leroy Merlin’s name to trick people into sharing personal and banking information. Fake emails offering a ‘free Dexter toolset’ in exchange for completing a survey are circulating, but it’s all part of a phishing scheme to steal your details. The National Cybersecurity Institute of Spain (INCIBE) has identified this scam and is warning everyone to stay vigilant.
These phishing emails look convincing, featuring Leroy Merlin’s branding and enticing offers. Recipients are invited to complete a survey, with the promise of receiving a free toolset. However, to claim the reward, they are asked to pay a small shipping fee, during which scammers collect sensitive data, including banking information.
What the emails often say:
• ‘Your experience with Leroy Merlin could win you a Dexter tool set!’
• ‘Share your feedback and claim your free gift!’
• ‘Exclusive chance: Take our survey and get a free toolset!’
Clicking the link takes victims to a fake website, designed to resemble Leroy Merlin’s official page. There, users are asked to provide personal and financial details.
If you receive a suspicious email, do not click any links. Report it to INCIBE, delete it, and if you’ve entered any personal details, contact your bank immediately. For further guidance, call INCIBE’s helpline on 017.
CHRISTMAS is coming and as the festivities draw ever closer, roads are bracing themselves for one of the busiest times of the year… and it’s not only for drivers.
The increase in travel over the festive period, not only increases traffic jams and bottle-necked cities, but also means a rise in driving penalties, which may affect thousands of unlucky or over-zealous drivers.
Spain has its foot in the door for traffic fines and violations. Over 5.6 traffic violations (infracciones) are penalised annually - that’s a substantial amount of money going back to the old tax office!
Eight per cent of these fines lead to
deduction of points due to severity. In just one year, the DGT removes over 1.6 million points from driving licences, averaging 3.7 points per fine.
The most common infraction to result in points being taken from your licence is running a red light.
The second most common reason for having points deducted is putting your foot too hard on the gas and speeding representing 27 per cent and nearly 300,000 penalties annually, plus a solid farewell to two, four, or six points from the licence.
The third most common driving infringement is drink-driving or driving under the influence of drugs at 12 per cent - clocking up over 50,000 fines.
December means a rise in driving penalties, which may affect thousands of unlucky or over-zealous drivers.
surprise measure from the tax office.
Credit: Shutterstock, pabloavanzini
Credit: Shutterstock/Viewvie
In memory of Swedish Princess
PRINCESS BRIGITTA of Sweden, sister to King Carl XVI Gustaf, passed away last week in Santa Ponça, Mallorca, where she had resided since the 1990s.
According to a statement from the Swedish royal court, her remains will be interred in the royal cemetery at Hagaparken, north of Stockholm. In tribute, flags were flying at half-mast at Drottningholm Palace and Haga Palace.
Born on January 19, 1937 at Haga Castle, Princess Brigitta was the second of five children of King Gustaf VI Adolf and Prin-
cess Sibylla of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Alongside her sisters Margaretha (90), Désirée (86), and Christina (81), Brigitta (87) was part of the group affectionately known as the Hagasessorna. Her name, Brigitta, became especially popular among Swedish girls of her generation.
The youngest sibling, Carl Gustaf, eventually became crown prince and later ascended the throne, as Sweden’s Salic law at the time favoured male succession.
Princess Brigitta, in addition to being a regular face among the European nobility, was a leading figure in the social life of Mallorca, where she hosted the annual Princess Brigitta Golf Tournament in honour to her passion for this sport.
Forest fire in Andratx
A FIRE broke out on the night of Saturday, December 7, along the road between Andratx and Estellencs, which was promptly closed to
traffic. The blaze quickly intensified, fuelled by the strong winds sweeping across the island.
Several residents in Andratx were evacuated from their homes during the night as the forest fire spread.
In response to the escalating threat, the Andratx Town Hall raised the Potential Severity Index of the fire from Level 0 to Level 1, as flames approached inhabited areas.
By 4.00am, the fire remained uncontrolled, with two fire engines, 13 fire brigades, two technicians, and two land ambulances deployed to combat the blaze and ensure public safety. The fire was difficult to extinguish due to the strong gusts of wind that hit the island, but by Monday morning it was finally under control.
It is estimated that around 70 hectares of reed, palm and pine forest have been affected. The cause of the fire is not yet known, but the Guardia Civil are putting the blame on negligence which was magnified by the windstorm.
Forest fire among strong winds.
The Swedish noblewoman was born in 1937.
Replanting orange trees
A TOTAL of €6,700 was raised during the charity concert held at the Teatre Escènic in Campos on Saturday December 7 to replant orange trees in Valencia.
Organised by Trenc Espectacles, the event attracted 450 attendees who enjoyed a series
of performances under the title Tots a una veu, germans, vingau! - the opening words of the Valencian anthem. The show was made possible thanks to the efforts of 25 talented artists.
The funds will be directed to the Unió de Petits Agricultors i Ra-
maders del País Valencià (Union of Small Farmers and Stockbreeders) via the UPA de les Illes Balears. The primary aim is to purchase fruit trees, particularly citrus trees, to help restore farmland in areas devastated by the storm DANA in Valencia.
Revived after death Mummified
A WOMAN from Mallorca, who was presumed dead, ‘revived’ whilst funeral home workers were preparing her apparently ‘deceased’ body.
The woman, an elderly woman in her 80s and in a terminal state, had very weak vital signs, which led to the error on Friday December 6, when one of the doctors at the Joan March hospital, where the woman was admitted, certified her death. The hospital informed her relatives, who requested her transfer to the Son Valentí mortuary in Palma. However, what was supposed to be a tranquil day at the mortuary
took an extraordinary turn when the workers realised that there was a pulse, and the fingers on one hand of the supposedly deceased woman were moving.
An ambulance was called for immediately and paramedics confirmed that she did indeed have a pulse, and she was immediately transferred back to the palliative care centre at the hospital. Sadly, the lady passed away two days later.
Following this event, the Joan March Hospital announced that it would change the protocols for issuing death certificates.
body in the Tramuntana
A MUSHROOM picker found a mummified body in a wooded area in the Tramuntana.
The body was found just before one o’clock, when a man who was foraging for mushrooms saw the body and called the emergency services. The discovery site is located between Valldemossa and Deià near the so-called panoramic road MA-10 at kilometre 69.
According to initial findings, the body was that of a man aged around 60 with no ID. A forensic pathologist found no signs of violence.
The fact that the body was mummified indicates that the man died days, if not weeks ago. The post-mortem will be carried out this week to try to clarify the cause of death.
Supporting orange farmers.
Photo: Facebook/ Populars de Campos
Joan March hospital.
AGE CONCERN - WHERE YOU NEVER NEED FEEL ALONE
AGE CONCERN is a relatively young charity (seven years) built on the realisation that the older English-speaking community were being neglected when it comes to ‘living their best lives’.
Our vision is clear, ‘To help ALL our clients live their best lives’. We take a holistic approach. Key ingredients are care, compassion, companionship, friendship and fun - and we do have fun! Once you have that the practical steps fall into place. Older people sometimes feel that society has labelled them with a ‘sell by’ date. As if their usefulness has simply expired. That is not just sad, it’s painfully short-sighted
eating healthily or worst case scenario maintaining personal hygiene. After all why would you want to make the e ort when you don’t see anyone?
service is available ve days a week, providing practical help, support and friendship. At Age Concern we always have the time to listen.
Part of ‘living your best life’ is knowing you have a support network in the form of friends and a charity that is willing and able to support you. If this vision resonates, these are some of the practical steps that Age Concern o ers.
SUPERMARKET
Visiting people at home or in their care home is integral to the ethos of the charity because we rmly believe that nobody should ever feel alone.
Whether you have funds behind you or not, healthy or in rm - as you age certain things will a ect us all. Friends and family either move away or pass away. Decreasing mobility means that your world inevitably becomes smaller and the dreaded scourge of loneliness and isolation is ever present.
Loneliness is quite di erent from wishing to be on your own at times. Loneliness eats away at you. We see individuals who just have no desire to do very much - and that includes
Weekly co ee mornings that are easily accessible where you can meet up with old friends and make new ones. There is a sense of ‘family’ at all our get-togethers that so many older people crave. Each one is run by an experienced volunteer who is there to help and ‘break the ice’ for new members
The essential back up from our welfare advice
Our volunteers are the backbone of Age Concern. They provide a wide range of services including taking clients to their medical appointments and help with shopping. Translators can also assist at the hospital or local doctor’s visits. In fact the list is endless. They all o er their time and talents without charge.
As part of our holistic approach we have a Community Centre o ering a wide range of interests from help with IT to chair yoga and much more. We also have lunches and day trips with something for everyone.
Sometimes you may want to discuss a problem face to face - that’s why we put aside every Monday morning for you. Worried about your lack of mobility? Rest assured we have a wide selection of mobility aids for personal loan.
So if you or a loved one needs us or you would like to nd out more about helping us to support our older English-speaking community to ‘live their best lives’ please call or WhatsApp our Helpline number on 689 355 198 which is open 40 hours a week daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm.
Your
VOICE
Do you get fed up with Christmas music?
WITH December here, towns are glowing with festive Christmas lights, many of us have already put up our decorations and, if you’re one of the organised ones, your Christmas shopping may even be well underway.
If you’ve already made a start on the shopping, you’ve likely noticed the constant stream of Christmas music which seems to be coming from every direction - but this isn’t just to get you into the festive mood. Studies suggest that Christmas tunes can actually lead stressed-out shoppers to spend more money. It’s not just about creating holiday cheer - many retailers believe that Christmas music can remind customers of the upcoming festivities, and encourage them to buy additional items.
Whether you enjoy the seasonal songs or find that they are a soundtrack to the stress of Christmas shopping, there’s no denying that Christmas carols are an essential part of the holidays. For this reason, we asked our Euro Weekly News readers whether they enjoy the holiday tunes, or whether they get fed up of hearing them everywhere.
Many readers shared their thoughts, with opinions ranging from enthusiastic to “Bah! Humbug!” Anne Harrison and Linda Miller simply responded to our question
Against illegal tourism
THE Consell de Mallorca has ramped up efforts to combat illegal tourist rentals, with a particular focus on repeat offenders.
The island’s Tourism councillor, José Marcial Rodríguez, has confirmed that six out of 51 previously sanctioned properties are still being let to tourists illegally. Rodríguez acknowledged that some property owners “faced the sanction but failed to comply with the obligation to remove their properties from the market.”
This year has seen a significant escalation in enforcement activities, with 1,765 inspections conducted and 245 infringement cases opened, an increase of 10.3 per cent compared to 2023. The council has already resolved 78 of the 179 sanctioning proceedings initiated, proposing fines totalling €4.42 million. Rodríguez emphasised that the number of
inspections against illegal tourism has grown by 13 per cent year-on-year, with 3,102 inspections conducted in 2024 compared to 1,028 in 2023. The intensified actions formed part of a summer campaign against illegal tourist rentals, which ran from June 15 to November 15. During these five months, the council conducted 2,554 operations across the island, more than tripling last year’s figure of 969. Of these actions, 1,765 inspections targeted unauthorised tourist lets, representing 70 per cent of the total efforts.
While welcoming the progress, Rodríguez admitted that the results still fall short of their goals, which aim to achieve nearly 80 per cent compliance. The councillor reiterated the commitment to rigorous enforcement to preserve the integrity of the island’s tourism sector.
with “yes,” while Gordon O’Keeffe expressed a more positive outlook, saying “I love it. Reminds me of lovely happy times.”
Amanda Jaye pointed out some artists that can be overplayed this time of the year, such as Slade, Wizard and Mariah Carey. On the other hand, John Smith shared that he can tolerate some Christmas music, mentioning festive favourites Fairytale of New York and I saw Mommy kissing Santa by Twisted Sister.
Luisa Miller highlights the importance of timing, saying that “if it started the week before Christmas I’m sure we’d all love it but not in October and November!”
Many other readers echo this opinion, including Judith Dominique Wolfenegg , who also adds that those who aren’t fans can simply “switch off the radio” and listen to something else.
Christmas music brings mixed emotions and divided opinions during the holiday season. While some embrace the festive and nostalgic songs, others find them tiresome and repetitive.
Despite the differing opinions of our readers, these songs play a big role in creating festive atmospheres in shops and in our homes, reminding everyone to enjoy the festive season.
CHRISTMAS MUSIC BRINGS MIXED EMOTIONS.
Properties let to tourists illegally
Vegan ensaimadas Cool
Aurelia Muñoz
THE ensaimada, the iconic Mallorcan pastry now has a vegan option: the sinsaimada. Tiraflecha, a café in Palma, caters to vegans and vegetarians with this green take on a beloved island classic.
Its Bolivian owner, Jorge Saucedo, is a trained baker who learned the art of bread-making from his father at a young age. After moving to Mallorca, he worked for the renowned bakery Forn de
la Soca in Palma, where his passion for baking deepened as he learned the craft of traditional Mallorcan pastries.
However, it was during his time at the restaurant La Mujer de Verde that he created the vegan ensaimada recipe, which he named sinsaimada: a play on the Mallorcan word saïm, meaning pork lard, making it saïm-free.
Jorge eventually embarked on his own venture, opening Tiraflecha two years ago, a café and bar offering breakfast, lunch, home-made sourdough bread, and both savoury and sweet pastries.
The sinsaimadas also come in larger sizes (33cm) and can be filled with vegan Nocilla (a Spanish cocoa and hazelnut spread) or vegan cream. Additionally, Jorge’s vegan selection includes Mallorcan favourites like cocas with vegetable toppings, empanadas, and cocarrois.
For those interested, note that vegan pastries are produced in limited quantities, so it’s best to reserve 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp on (+34) 685 200 313 to avoid disappointment.
Tiraflecha is located at Carrer de la Fàbrica, 58 in Palma.
Christmas charity show
GRUPO MOLA, a rising name in Palma de Mallorca’s vibrant dining scene, offers a tasty experience through its two flagship restaurants: Mola, located in the heart of Santa Catalina, and Mas Mola, in Portixol area. Both establishments combine cool (‘cool’ means mola in Spanish) Mediterranean cuisine with chilled atmospheres.
and welcoming
Located in the charming Portixol area, the restaurant emphasises a laid-back yet upscale vibe, ideal for romantic dinners or gatherings with friends. Patrons rave about the fresh fish and thoughtful presentation of every plate.
nal abundance.
Mas Mola Christmas Eve Menu Highlights: Scallops with truffle foam, lamb shoulder confit, and a selection of desserts that evoke holiday cheer.
Across both venues, Grupo Mola’s attention to detail extends to its service. Staff members are warm, knowledgeable. The wine list features a well-curated selection of local and international labels, perfectly complementing the menus’ flavours.
Mola’s Christmas Eve menu offers a five-course feast begins with festive starters like foie gras or scallops and progresses to a choice of exquisite mains, such as Iberian pork or seabass, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.
ENGLISH RADIO Pollensa is hosting the annual Christmas charity show/celebration for the Allen Graham Charity on Sunday December 15. All the Christmas classics in one place: live music, mulled wine, mince pies and cookies, face painting, and a raffle with all sorts of prizes: from delicious meals to fine art (€5 per strip).
young adults in Mallorcakindly asks visitors to bring a brand-new toy to the event, wrapped or unwrapped, with a note indicating who the toy is for (boy or girl and age).
To support children who wouldn’t otherwise receive a present this Christmas, the Allen Graham Charity - dedicated to helping disadvantaged children and
If you can’t attend the show, the Allen Graham Charity is also collecting new presents for children aged between four and 14 at two drop-off points: Versilia Supply Service, C/ Saridakis, 2 in Palma, and Efoil Riders, Ctra/ Andratx, 34 in Portals Nous.
The event will take place on Sunday December 15, from 11.00am to 4.00pm at the Radio Pollensa studio (next to the Cloisters). For more information, WhatsApp or email Charles on (+34) 676 256 795, or at studio@ englishradiopollensa.com.
Mola in Santa Catalina embraces the area’s cosmopolitan. Its menu showcases a creative fusion of local ingredients and global culinary techniques. Highlights include seafood dishes and an emphasis on seasonal, farm-to-table produce. The ambiance strikes a balance between trendy and welcoming, making it perfect for everything from casual lunches to elegant evenings out.
Mas Mola is a seaside haven with stunning views alongside exceptional food.
Both Mola and Mas Mola have crafted exclusive menus for Christmas Eve, reflecting the spirit of the holidays with their signature touch of culinary innovation. These special evenings include carefully selected courses, where every dish feels like a celebration of flavour, artistry, and seaso-
THE Modern Art Museum in Mallorca, Es Baluard, hosts a family workshop to celebrate Christmas by exploring light.
Children will discover and experience with light as an element of creation in contemporary art during this especial time of the year.
The workshop has been designed by Es Baluard’s educational team and takes as a trigger
Don’t miss out on your Christmas eve dinner and book a table at: grupomola.com/en/.
MOLA SANTA CATALINA
Calle Navegacio 17B, 07013, Palma 680 808 078
MAS MOLA
Calle Soler 23, 07013, Palma 634 339 344
the work from Es Baluard Museu Collection Untitled (Rat and Trap) by Tim & Sue Noble & Webster. This event is for children aged three to 12 years, and it will take place at the museum in Palma on December 27 and January 3 at 11am. Registration is required and can be done by calling (+34) 971 908 209. Price: €2 per child.
Photo: Tiraflecha.
Credit: Instagram/grupo_mola
Photo: Facebook/Allen Graham Charity
DENMARK
Airport deal
THE government will pay 32 billion Danish kroner (€4.3 billion) to the ATP pension fund for a 59.4 per cent stake in Copenhagen Airports SA, the Ministry of Finance revealed on December 2. Subject to regulatory approval, the state will then own approximately 98 per cent of Copenhagen and Roskilde airports.
Chippy debut
THE Harry Ramsden’s fish and chip restaurant group is looking for franchisees in Denmark where it intends to open branches in all regions, the Ekstra Bladet newspaper reported. The popular chain, which was founded in Guisely (Yorkshire) in 1928, now has 84 branches in Britain and one in Malaysia.
PORTUGAL
Cure-all
SPEAKING at an international symposium in Porto, Agriculture minister Jose Manuel Fernandes said that wine, which was essential for Portugal’s economy, was under attack. “Wine is not an enemy of the environment,” Fernandes said. “On the contrary, it a friend of the economy, competitiveness and territorial cohesion.”
A nice cuppa
RESEARCHERS from the University of the Algarve took part in an international study that used 180,000 teabags to measure the decomposition rates of organic matter. Scientists who assessed the ability of 180 wetlands in 18 countries to retain carbon in the soil, said that buried teabags were “a proven method.”
EURO PRESS
BELGIUM
Ready to race
OLYMPIC gold medallist and professional cyclist Remco Evenerpoel fractured a rib, shoulder blade and hand, also dislocating his collarbone and bruising his lungs after he collided with a vehicle door while training in Oetingen. “The comeback starts now,” the 24-year-old said as he left hospital following surgery.
IRELAND FINLAND
Drink figures
A SURVEY of 7,400 over-15s found that alcohol consumption over the last 12 months had risen from 70 to 73 per cent, although this was still below the 75 per cent reported in 2018. The number of binge drinkers capable of drinking six or more drinks at one time rose from 24 per cent in 2023 to 28 per cent this year.
Cash crimes
CATRIONA CAREY, a former Ireland hockey international and Camogie player, was arrested and charged with laundering the proceeds of criminal conduct over a threeyear period. Together with two former business partners she was accused of offences linked to the UK-based company, Careysfort Asset Estates.
ITALY GERMANY
Phone ban
A NEW Highway Code comes into force in mid-December with tougher penalties for using mobile phones at the wheel, drink-driving and speeding. Talking on a phone while driving could now cost offenders up to €1,400 and a three-month driving ban, although both will be doubled when mobile use causes an accident.
Art lesson
MORE than 80 artworks seized from Italian mafia members have been put on display in Milan. Formerly hidden pictures by artists including Salvador Dali, Giorgio Chirico and Andy Warhol could now be enjoyed by the community, the National Agency for Assets Confiscated from Organised Crime (ANBSC) said.
Chocoholics
COCOA prices have shot up worldwide but despite the expense, demand for chocolate fell by just 1.6 per cent inside Germany during 2024, according to national statistics agency Destatis. In 2018, Germans ate an average 9 kilos per head and by 2023, this had risen to almost 10 kilos per person, Destatis said.
Cold war
THE DPA press agency reported that Defence officials revealed that a Russian vessel had sent up warning flares on seeing a German military helicopter on a routine operation in the Baltic. The incident coincided with stepped up Nato surveillance in response to threats to the West’s undersea cables and pipelines.
Mild autumn
WEATHER between September and the end of November was either ‘unusually or exceptionally warm’ across most of the country, the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) said. Although the average for autumn 2020 was the warmest on record, this was only 0.17 degrees warmer than 2024, the FMI pointed out.
Dos and Don’ts
FINLAND’S Food Authority recommended eating less red meat both for health and environmental reasons and switch to plant-based foods while increasing vegetable intake from 500 to 800 grammes a day. Finns were also encouraged to abstain completely from alcohol “as there is no safe level for alcohol use.”
NETHERLANDS
Changed status
DUTCH farmers applauded after the Bern Convention board approved a European Union proposal to change the status of wolves from ‘strictly protected’ to ‘protected’. The modified level means that wolves may not be deliberately killed, captured, caged, or disturbed and breeding grounds should be respected.
No thanks
THE Netherlands has a 13,600 shortfall of full-time teachers but market research centre ROA found that 62,000 no longer work in the occupation they trained for. Previous research also showed that many of those who have left the profession were happier away from the classroom, with fewer ‘burnout’ symptoms.
FRANCE
Going it alone
CHAD, France’s last foothold in Africa’s Sahel region, said it had ended the military cooperation between both countries. “Chad has grown up, matured and is a sovereign state very jealous of its sovereignty,” Foreign minister Abderaman Koulamallah said following a visit from his French counterpart.
Past times
DURING Notre-Dame cathedral’s restoration after the 2019 fire, archaeologists said they had discovered “almost 2,000 years of history.” Finds included Gallic coins from the first century BC, the remains of a first century AD dwelling 3.50 metres below the surface and traces of fragments of a 13th century rood screen.
SWEDEN
Paint job
UNKNOWN persons used a drone to drop paint on the Russian embassy in Stockholm in the early hours of November 29, the Dagens Nyheter newspaper reported. Embassy guards alerted the Swedish authorities who deployed a helicopter to find the drone but failed to locate it, police spokesman Mats Erkisson confirmed.
Called off
AFTER South Korea was plunged into political chaos, Sweden’s PM Ulf Kristersson cancelled the visit where he was due to meet President Yoon Suk-Yeol on December 5. Kristersson, in Japan at the time, admitted that he was taken by surprise “as he hadn’t been following Korean politics very closely.”
NORWAY
Taxing position
NORWAY’S Tax Agency revealed that it collected 1,300 billion kroner (€111.5 billion) in 2023. Private individuals accounted for 685 billion kroner (€58.71 billion), businesses paid 147 billion kroner (€12.6 billion) while the petroleum tax reached 465 billion (€39.8 billion), less than in 2022 but still the second-highest ever.
Eat up
BEGINNING in 2026, pupils should receive a free healthy lunch at school each day, MPs decided at the end of November. The government will now draft plans for introducing the meals, while the 2026 national Budget will be expected to give details of plans for implementing and funding the system.
REMCO EVENERPOEL: Ace cyclist will get back in saddle soon.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
On track
SOUTH WESTERN RAILWAY
(SWR), one of the UK’s largest commuter services currently run as a joint venture by First Group and Hong Kong rail operator MTR, will be nationalised in May when its contract ends. The C2C Essex service, next in line, will be publicly owned by July 2025, the Transport ministry said.
Adif plum
INSURANCE company
Generali outbid current provider Zurich to win a €2.4 million contract to supply life insurance and accident cover for 13,000 employees of Adif, Spain’s state-owned railway infrastructure company. The agreement with the Italian company begins in early 2025 and will end in late 2026.
Small wonder
GAMES WORKSHOP is on course for promotion to the FTSE 100 thanks to the popularity of its Warhammer miniatures. Shares in the company, which was created in 1975 and valued at £4.7 billion (€5.7 billion) at close of day on December 2, have shot up 43 per cent this year and by 2,500 per cent since 2014.
Bought back
BANCO SANTANDER completed its €1.52 billion buyback scheme after acquiring 341.7 million shares at €0.50 each and obtaining a 2.21 per cent capital reduction of €170.8 million. Authorised by the European Central Bank and approved by shareholders, the measure will be passed by the board on December 17.
Bonus lost
NICK READ, who took over as chief executive at the Post Office in 2019 will lose a bonus package of £750,000 (€906,127) after deciding to step down following the Horizon accounting scandal. Read was entitled to a 2024 bonus of up to 45 per cent of his basic pay and a further 43 bonus for the coming year.
STAT OF WEEK
€3.9 billion
in joint investments by carmaker Stellantis and China’s electric car battery manufacturer, CATL, in a gigafactory and manufacturing plant in Zaragoza.
Just a business deal
ALARM bells rang in Madrid when Saudi Telecom Company (STC) acquired a 9.9 per cent Telefonica holding in shares and derivatives last year.
STC belongs to Saudi Arabia’s public pension fund and the Spanish government took until November 28 to authorise the €2.1 billion deal, owing to Telefonica’s strategic status.
Telefonica was privatised in 1997 but Spain’s state-owned Industrial Holding Company (Sepi) has now purchased a 10 per cent stake to counteract STC’s presence. Criteria, La Caixa Banking Foundation’s holding company, bought 9.9 per cent.
STC meanwhile maintained that its interest in Telefonica was exclusively financial and the company had no interest in occupying the seat on the board that it was entitled to, given the size of its holding.
Financially, STC’s acquisition has proved worthwhile. In the 15 mon-
NATWEST is on track to return to full private ownership following its £46 billion (€55.5 billion) rescue during the 2008 crisis.
Speaking to the Financial Times on December 3, chief executive Paul Thwaite said it was reasonable to expect that, barring a “big dislocation or economic event” the bank would be in private hands by the first half of 2025.
The UK government’s holding in NatWest, called Royal Bank of Scotland at the time of its bailout, is now under 11 per cent, compared with 38
Doing well
THE Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) expects Spain’s growth to have reached a healthy 3 per cent in 2024.
This is two-10ths of a percentage point higher than previous estimates and almost four times the OECD’s 0.8 per cent prediction for the eurozone. Spain’s momentum is expected to slow in 2025 but at 2.3 per cent, its advance will still be higher than the eurozone’s average of 1.3 per cent, and one-10th above the OECD’s earlier forecast.
ths since the Saudi company embarked on its Telefonica journey, it has obtained a return of more than 15 per cent on the company’s shares which were quoted at €3.75 at the time of purchase.
To this should be added two dividends already received with another due this month. In all, STC has so far had a return of 27.7 per cent on its investment.
Private
Four times better
DANONE reported a €48.4 million profit last year, its highest in three years and quadrupling 2022’s.
Although sales have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels in Spain, last year’s rose to €891.7 million, an increase of 6 per cent on the previous year and the company’s highest since 2012.
They were also 16 per cent up on 2021 before prices began to soar owing to inflation.
Sales improved for practically all Danone products, apart from yoghurt and plant-based milk drinks.
The latter accounted for 10 per cent of Danone’s sales, three percentage points lower than in 2022. In contrast, yoghurt drinks were responsible for 76 per cent of all sales.
Meanwhile Sepi, which paid approximately €4 per share has had an 8.8 per cent return, increasing to 16.3 per cent with the June and December dividends.
Criteria, which paid €3.97 per share for its stake in early April, has enjoyed a return of more than 9 per cent on its investment, rising to approximately 17 per cent with both dividends.
WEALTH management company St James’s Place intends to cut its 3,200 corporate staff by a sixth. This will result in approximately 500 redundancies in offices across the UK, the London-listed company revealed in a leaked internal memo, although the job cuts will not affect its 4,800 financial advisers.
St James’s Place said in July this year that it would save an annual £100 million (€120.8 million) over the next two years, and expected to have made savings that totalled £500 million (€604.2 million) by 2030.
CEMENTOS MOLINS announced on December 3 that it was relocating its corporate headquarters to Catalonia.
per cent in 2023.
Private ownership would enable NatWest to use its capital more strategically after the bank bought back some of the state’s shares earlier this year, Thwaite said, allowing the bank to focus on its wealth management arm, which includes private bank Coutts.
Initially this would be carried out via internal growth, Thwaite said, as he did not rule out future acquisitions.
Asda maths
ASDA has borrowed £155 million (€187 million) to settle impending debts as it allays worries regarding its financial position,
The supermarket chain co-owned by TDR Capital and Mohsin Issa has a current debt pile of £6 billion (€7.2 billion) which in 2023 cost £441 million (€532.5 million) in interest alone.
The latest loan supplements an existing loan due in 2031 and, together with £155 million of cash from Asda’s balance sheet, means it can pay off £310 million (€374.3 million) in 2025 and 2026.
Thanks to this strategy the supermarket, will no longer have obligations due this decade, Asda sources said.
The company, which has a strong international presence, explained in October 2017 that it wished to continue ensuring normal operations by moving to Madrid following Catalonia’s pro-independence referendum and separatist unrest. Molins nevertheless stressed at the time that it remained committed to maintaining its activities inside Catalonia.
The company was one of around 4,500 Catalan businesses that left the region after 2017, including CaixaBank, which moved its headquarters to Valencia.
THE Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) cleared the way for Shein’s £50 billion (€60.4 billion) debut on London’s Stock Exchange.
The FCA’s chief executive Nikhil Rathi explained that decisions on listings were based on the company’s disclosures. That did not cover every aspect of their corporate behaviour, Rathi told the Financial Times, aware that human rights groups had hoped the UK would, like the US, snub the Chinese fast fashion retailer.
NATWEST: Full private ownership in 2025.
STC: Saudi Arabia’s principal telecoms company.
3I Group 3.713,00 3.742,00 3.713,00 18,92K Admiral Group 2.721,0 2.723,5 2.714,0 3,99K
Airtel Africa 105,90 106,11 105,45 25,48K Anglo American 2.502,5 2.525,5 2.497,5 121,71K Antofagasta 1.754,00 1.774,00 1.747,50 15,94K Ashtead Group 6.402,0 6.448,0 6.396,0 25,44K Associated British Foods 2.249,6 2.258,0 2.240,0 21,92K
10.710,0 10.736,0 10.686,0 48,45K Auto Trader Group Plc 842,80 848,60 840,00 20,66K Aviva 484,50 485,60 481,30 226,22K
B&M European Value Retail SA 361,30 363,60 361,30 34,1K
BAE Systems 1.216,55 1.235,50 1.215,00 197,97K Barclays 266,15 267,27 266,15 534,73K Barratt Redrow 437,60 439,80 436,90 56,97K
Beazley 821,00 824,50 821,00 10,82K
Berkeley 4.080,0 4.136,0 4.080,0 3,48K
BP 380,44 380,80 378,89 580,95K
British American Tobacco 2.964,0 2.975,0 2.960,0 80,92K
BT Group 157,70 158,05 157,60 699,82K
Bunzl 3.590,0 3.596,0 3.574,0 11,11K
Centrica 130,55 131,20 130,50 405,49K Coca Cola HBC AG 2.816,0 2.822,0 2.730,0 64,55K
2.753,00 2.764,00 2.748,00 46,55K ConvaTec Group 234,00 236,28 233,60 57,03K Croda Intl 3.440,0 3.446,0 3.430,0 3,89K DCC 5.560,0 5.595,0 5.560,0 1,55K Diageo 2.438,5
BUSINESS
EXTRA
Checkmate
BURBERRY is suing B&M over trademark breaches which insiders attributed to the discount retailer’s Furberry items for pets which use the luxury brand’s distinctive beige, red, white and black colour scheme. Both companies declined to give further details when contacted by Sky News.
Steel deal
SPANISH steel producer Acerinox, whose Malaysian subsidiary Bahru Stainless ceased activities in May, confirmed its sale to Spain’s Stock Market Commission (CNMV). The plant was sold Worldwide Stainless, the country’s only cold-rolled steel, for $95 million (€90 million).
FORTY-FIVE companies have left the London Stock Exchange (LSE) this year following mergers or acquisitions, Bloomberg figures revealed.
Rio Tinto could be the next to go after activist investor Palliser Capital recommended an independent review of the Anglo-Australian mining giant’s double listing in London and Sydney.
The current arrangement had cost shareholders £39.5 billion (€47.7 billion) and was “an unmitigated failure,” Palliser said, calling for a single Australian-domiciled holding company
Stamp it out
Another option for Talgo
SPAIN’S train manufacturer Talgo has an Indian suitor.
Jupiter Wagons, which also produces trains and is based in Calcutta, is reportedly in talks with private equity firm Trilantic, which owns approximately 30 per cent of Talgo.
The presence of the Indian company, 19.24 per cent-owned by the Czech rolling stock company Tatravagonka, would in-
crease Talgo’s manufacturing capacity.
At the same time, Jupiter Wagons would contribute its services, not capital, as Talgo’s industrial partner and would not make a public purchase offer.
Should Jupiter Wagons’ talks with Trilantic prosper, this would be in line with the wishes of the national and Basque governments which want a major portion of Talgo’s capital to remain inside Spain.
on December 4.
A day earlier, Russian-born British businessman Nikolay Storonsky, chief executive of the online bank Revolut, said that listing in London was “not rational.”
“If you look at trading in the UK, you always pay a stamp duty tax, which is 0.5 per cent,” Storonsky said. “I just don’t understand how the product provided by the UK can compete with the US.”
Stamp duty was also in the sights of Alastair King, Lord Mayor of London and head of the City of London Corporation, during his speech at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet on December 2.
“It cannot be logically correct that we do not pay tax on purchases of international vehicles like Tesla but are taxed for investing in a British brand like Aston Martin,” he said.
Merger okayed
THE UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) approved the £15 billion (€18.1 billion) merger between Vodafone and Three, which will create Britain’s largest mobile network with 27 million customers. This now reduces the number of operators from four to three, prompting the CMA’s earlier fears that the merger could lead to higher prices and less choice for customers.
ACS trophy
TURNER CORPORATION, a subsidiary of Spain’s ACS which is chaired by Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, won a $10 billion (€9.5 billion) contract to build a data centre for the Meta conglomerate. The installation in Richland Paris (Louisiana) will handle the enormous amounts of data required to support Meta’s digital infrastructure, including AI processes.
NIKOLAY STORONSKY: Revolut chief executive criticised Stamp Duty.
Photo credit: CC/Web Summit
Be careful out there
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
DON’T try convincing me anything has changed. I still well remember the case of the 16-year-old young hoodlum who became involved in a car chase with a number of police vehicles. Attempting to swerve around a police road block his car struck a young officer who was dragged along before being thrown off and sustaining multiple injuries, including a fractured leg.
The car was finally brought to a halt and the driver arrested. The charges were, stealing a car, failing to stop; possession of cannabis; failing to provide a blood sample; causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving without a licence or insurance. The officer was off work for five weeks and also suffered a psychological impact that required mental treatment and counselling.
At his trial the judge’s ruling on this young offender was a paltry, non-custodial 12-month rehabilitation order, and a fine of £100! You
really couldn’t make it up. What this basically means is that these waste of time judges are not fit to serve up slop in a prison kitchen, leave alone serve up justice on the bench. The correct way to prevent young thugs like this re-offending is to bang ‘em up in a serious boot camp. Control their every waking and sleeping moment with the strictest regulations and make them never want to be put back inside again.
But it won’t happen, will it? Nowadays, particularly under the new ‘leaders’, these young thugs will probably not even get a prison sentence (no room!) With this utterly incompetent new UK government, the ‘wokes’ and liberal lefties of British society are creating new generations of youngsters with no regard whatsoever for law and order, an utterly self-centred attitude of entitlement and the belief that despite a history of total failure, socialism is the answer to everything. To Starmer’s far left idealists it all makes perfect sense; the more dependent the people are on the state, the more they can be controlled. Their ultimate ambition is akin to communism and the bra-
inwashed young their prime targets. By the time the youngsters realise they have been duped it will all be too late. Thank the Lord my children have been born and raised in Spain, at least they were given an appropriate chance and guidance for a decent future, but be careful out there, the wokes are hovering.
Finally, this week I’m actually feeling lucky enough to even scribe the blurb. On Saturday night I flew back from Gatwick to Mallorca. As usual Leapy’s timing was perfect. Although personally partaking almost 70 years of air travel, both myself and my fellow passengers experienced one of the most terrifying flights ever. At 6pm we took off from Gatwick into a violent storm that had already diverted new aircraft landings to different airports. Somehow, we managed to lift off but a couple of hours later then proceeded to hurtle and wobble violently down into Mallorca in equally terrifying circumstances. Someone was looking down on us all. God bless the pilots who were magnificent. Never again.
Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
AI speed cameras France
IS Big Brother watching your dashboard? France steps up its speed camera game with AI in preparation for 2025.
France is set to give its speed cameras a high-tech makeover, sparking debate among drivers. The country’s 2025 budget proposals include plans to equip hundreds of radars with artificial intelligence (AI), promising to catch more than just lead-footed speedsters.
If the budget passes, AI-powered cameras could roll out in 2025, targeting a range of offences beyond speeding. But what does this mean for drivers?
France’s current speed cameras are no strangers to snapping motorists breaking the law, but AI promises to take things to another level. A report attached to the 2025 budget outlines plans to harness ‘innovative technologies’ to improve road safety. Think of it as a watchful ‘synthetic eye’ on the lookout for more than just speeders. So, what might these supercharged radars catch? Here’s a taster:
Drivers failing to buckle up.
Tailgaters glued to the bumper ahead.
The dreaded mobile phone users texting behind the wheel.
With over 4,000 cameras dotting France, it’s unclear which will get the AI upgrade, but a public tender is already in the works to find tech partners for the project.
INTERVIEW
Bucharest to the
Costa del Sol
Originally from Bucharest, Romania, Radu’s European journey began in the UK, where he lived for 11 years after moving there in 2010 to study business management. In August 2022, he swapped Kent for sunny Manilva on Spain’s Costa del Sol, seeking a better quality of life for his family.
“IT was about starting a family and dissatisfaction with the UK’s lifestyle and ri sing costs,” says Radu. Spain offered proximity to Romania, great weather, and affordable private nursery fees. Also, in Spain, children are very much welcomed, and it’s not unusual to see families in restaurants late in the evening and children playing in the park after dark.
bureaucracy is a nightmare,” Radu admits. “Everything involves pen, paper, and appointments!”
Now working remotely in cybersecurity, Radu enjoys living near the beach and a slower pace of life that allows his wife to stay home with their daughter.
While he appreciates the friendly locals and stunning scenery, adjusting hasn’t been without hurdles. “Spanish
Socially, Radu’s life is enriched by friends from Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, and family from the UK. Learning Spanish remains a work in progress, though he finds the similarities to Romanian helpful in understanding the language.
While Spain feels like home for now, Radu hasn’t ruled out exploring other European countries.
For now, Radu is content, embracing coastal living and the relaxed Spanish lifestyle.
AI speed cameras to hit French roads in 2025: What you need to know.
Radu Alexandru.
Credit: Radu
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Christmas jobs
SOME 17,830 jobs are expected to be generated in Malaga this Christmas, a 14.7 per cent increase on the previous year. The region and its province will account for 20.6 per cent of the total hirings at the regional level. Andalucia has the highest volume of contracting for the Christmas campaign, with 86,360 temp contracts, 13.4 per cent more than the same time in 2023.
In Jaen, the logistics sector is expected to have the largest increase, with 2,286 new contractees, representing a 14.7 per cent increase. This places Malaga as the third province with the largest increase.
The hospitality industry is expected to experience a significant increase in hiring due to the tourism and catering sectors. Companies need to hire waiters with experience and other customer service-orientated profiles. Shops will bolster their staff with shop assistants, promoters, and commercial profiles.
Axarquia
Alcaucin
welcomes Xmas
ALCAUCIN is raring to go with its festive favourites for Christmas 2024 including around 20 activities for all ages from the littlest to the oldest. First up, the Santa Claus post box at Correos (post office) for little ones to post their wish lists! Let’s hope they’ve been good this year.
On Thursday December 12, welcome a special Christmas workshop and on Friday December 13, the Zambombá Flamenca will hit the Town Hall Square.
For all the little ones, there will be the much-awaited visit by Santa Claus to the local school on December 17, followed by several days of craft workshops, a Christmas movie and the visit of the Three Wise Men.
Sweet lovers can lick their lips with the Christmas Dessert Contest on Friday December 20 in the Town Hall Square, a day which also marks the opening of the Christmas village. On Saturday December 21, in the same place, at 7pm, get ready for the Living Nativity Scene.
Costa Blanca South Not just for summer
THE Costa Blanca has successfully diversified its tourism offerings during the colder months, expanding beyond its traditional ‘sun and beach’ appeal. This achievement is the result of years of effort to attract visitors with a broader range of options, according to industry leaders.
Evidence of this success can be seen in data from the hotel association Hosbec, which reports that 87.5 per cent of hotel rooms across the Costa Blanca will remain open during the low season, from October 2024 to March 2025.
Interestingly, the most significant slowdown in the hotel sector is expected after the Christmas season, with the highest number of closures occurring in January, following the end of the holiday period. In the rest of the Alicante Province (excluding Benidorm), 90.1 per cent of Hosbec-affiliated hotels will remain operational during the low season, showing a clear commitment to maintaining tourism activity even in quieter months.
Costa Blanca North Benitachell’s young heroes
THE children of El Poble Nou de Benitachell have genuinely embraced the spirit of solidarity. For the past three years, the diligent students of CEIP Santa Maria Magdalena have been actively engaged in fundraising efforts through their annual solidarity race, and this year, they chose a significant cause: assisting those impacted by the devastating DANA.
Inspired by having two teachers from Algemesi - a town that suffered extensive damage due to recent flooding - the students decided to establish a twinning initiative with the Algemesi-based Blasco Ibáñez school. They aimed to support the students there, facilitating the repairs needed to restore their school environment.
On Thursday, December 5, the streets of the urban centre of Benitachell transformed into an energetic racing circuit, where the joy of sport, the warmth of family, and the vibrant sounds of music came together to celebrate community spirit.
Almeria
Luxury lands in Mojacar
EXCITING news for Mojacar and the wider Almeria Province: Hyatt Hotels is set to open its first five-star hotel in the area by 2026. This new addition, part of the prestigious Destination by Hyatt brand, will be located in the Macenas Mediterranean Resort, developed in partnership with Cosentino. It’s a move that promises to transform the region’s tourism scene, bringing luxury, jobs, and new opportunities.
This €40-million investment is expected to create 110 direct and indirect jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. For Mojacar, this is more than just a new hotel, it’s a step towards becoming a luxury destination that attracts international visitors, putting the town and the province on the map for high-end tourism. The arrival of Hyatt is just the beginning. The company is eager to explore further opportunities in the Almeria region, seeing the potential for growth and development. Hyatt’s presence will also elevate the area’s tourism sector.
Costa Calida
Step up Mazarron
RECENTLY the streets of Mazarron came alive for the sixth annual ‘Marcha por Ellos’ (March for Them), a charity walk supporting APROAMA, the town’s animal protection group. Locals and animal lovers turned out in force, joined by council members Silvia García, López Liderr, and Toñi Sáez, to back this meaningful cause.
APROAMA started in 2018 with a small group of people determined to help abandoned and mistreated animals. What began in a tiny backyard has grown into a bustling refuge, giving countless animals a second chance at life. The team’s dedication and love for animals shine through everything they do.
The ‘March for them’ wasn’t just about raising money, it was a day to come together as a community, celebrate progress, and share a love for animals. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or not, their work shows how even small actions can make a big difference.
PETS
Hugo and Mable are cared for by house-sitters
Looking for a lost pet
LOSING a pet can be a distressing experience, but prompt and strategic action can significantly increase your chances of finding them. Start by thoroughly searching your home and nearby areas, as frightened pets often hide in familiar spaces. Call their name calmly and check small, enclosed spots like under beds or behind furniture. If your pet is not found, expand your search outdoors. Walk around your neighbourhood, bringing along their favourite treats or toys to lure them out. Inform your neighbours and ask them to check garages, sheds,
or other hiding places. Create flyers with your pet’s photo, name, and your contact details, and post them in high-traffic areas.
Microchipping your pet is essential for swift reunions. Ensure your contact details are up to date with the microchip registry. Additionally, use social media and local community groups to spread the word. Contact nearby shelters and veterinary clinics, providing them with a detailed description. Lastly, remain patient and persistentmany pets are reunited even weeks/months after going missing.
HUGO and Mable love company. They just love playing and they’re great company themselves. Their owner regularly looks for pet-sitters to come to her home and care for them when she travels abroad to see family. What’s more, as a member of HouseSitMatch she doesn’t need to pay the sitters, they simply stay for free and care for Hugo and Mable in their own home, they house and pet-sit like friends.
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Twinkling lights and shiny baubles only add to the allure, creating a fascinating, interactive playground. However, this can lead to toppled trees and potential dangers, such as swallowing tinsel or chewing electrical cords.
Cat-proof X mas trees
FOR cats, Christmas trees are irresistible. They combine everything a cat loves - height for climbing, dangling ornaments to bat at, and new textures to explore. The tree’s natural or artificial branches mimic the environment of the outdoors, sparking a cat’s instinct to climb and play.
To keep your cat safe, anchor the tree securely with a heavy base or wall attachment to prevent tipping. Avoid using fragile ornaments on lower branches and secure decorations tightly. Steer clear of tinsel and ribbons, which can pose choking hazards. Create a cat-friendly alternative by providing climbing towers or toys to divert their attention.
Additionally, placing citrus peels or using pet-safe deterrent sprays near the tree can help discourage climbing.
With these measures, you can enjoy a safe and festive holiday season with your feline friend.
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Dutch Grand Prix
IN the past decade or so, various countries have seen the tremendous international coverage that Formula 1 races receive, hence the appearance of such unlikely venues as Azerbaijan, China and several Middle East countries.
According to Robert van Overdijk race director for the Dutch Grand Prix which is held at the Zandvoort racetrack, only the Netherlands and the UK’s Silverstone receive no support of any kind from their respective governments.
Indeed the decision to increase VAT on tickets for events by an additional 12 per cent could in fact damage the potential success of
the Dutch Grand Prix which is contracted to take place annually, with the last race due in 2026.
Things have clearly changed since Zandvoort first hosted the Dutch Grand Prix from 1950 to 1985 and then after a 35 year hiatus plus a cancellation due to the pandemic it only returned in 2021 but will not continue after 2026.
It’s all down to the finan-
ces and unless each day of the qualifiers and the actual race are pretty much sold out, then it just doesn’t work to continue to host the Dutch Grand Prix.
With three wins and a second, Dutch racing driver and current World Champion Max Verstappen has encouraged crowds at previous races, but the Zandvoort management are very aware that he could easily retire or have a serious accident so cannot rely on him
Lewis Hamilton’s farewell
IT was the end of an era for Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes as the seven-time world champion bid a heartfelt goodbye to his long-time race engineer Pete Bonnington - known affectionately as ‘Bono’. Their emotional farewell unfolded under the lights of Yas Marina Circuit, marking Hamilton’s last race for the Silver Arrows before his high-profile switch to Ferrari.
Hamilton took Bono for a high-octane lap of the track - with the usually composed engineer left sweating buckets, spitting expletives, and gripping the seat like his life depended on it - which, given Hamilton’s flair for the dramatic, it probably did. Fans were on the edge of their seats, torn between roaring with laughter and dabbing at a sneaky tear.
“I don’t know why you hate testing. That is so much fun!” Bono exclaimed through fits of nervous laughter.
“The tyres get hot, there’s no grip, and then you spin. I can see why you need a physio now!”
Fans flooded social media with emotional reactions to the video of the pair’s final lap. One fan summed it up: “Pure magic”. Another described the moment as “iconic”.
While Hamilton’s red Ferrari overalls await him next season, the legacy he leaves behind at Mercedes is undeniable. He will leave a void that will be hard to fill at Mercedes.
Sports Personality of the Year 2024
IT’S that time of the year again. It’s the ultimate epic showdown of British sporting giants. Head to head, toe to toe, elbow to elbow... The BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 shortlist has landed, and the heat on this one could fry an egg on the pavement.
From footballing finesse to Paralympic prowess, these six stars have kept us glued to our screens and screaming at the telly. Now, it’s their turn to fight for the nation’s vote.
Who’s got what it takes to take home the trophy? Let’s meet the contenders:
Jude Bellingham - The boy wonder taking modern
English football to new heights. He’s tall, he’s got the call, and he’s on the ball.
Keely Hodgkinson
The golden girl of the track.
Luke Littler darts sensation rewriting history.
Joe Root - Arguably, England’s cricketing GOAT.
Dame Sarah StoreyParalympic royalty with medals for days.
Alex Yee - The London-born triathlon titan who’s sprinted into stardom.
On Tuesday, December 17, presenters Clare Balding, Gabby Logan, and Alex Scott will guide us through a night packed
London, United Kingdom - 06 01 2024: Jude Bellingham during Champions.
with highlights from 2024’s most exhilarating sporting moments.
The grand finale? The winner’s name gets called live, right there and then, thanks to you lot casting the votes. How do you vote? They’ll spill the beans during the showso tune in.
Tune in on December 17 to see who takes the crown!
Popular at Zandvoort racetrack the highly successful Max Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton (Left) and Pete Bonnington (Right), at the Abu Dhabi, UAE November 2022 F1 World Championship.
Credit: Shutterstock, cristiano barni