Costa de Almeria 2 - 8 January 2025 Issue 2061

Three Kings Parade

“Three Kings bring magic to Almeria”

THE Three Kings Celebration, or ‘Día de Reyes,’ is a major tradition in Spain, celebrating the arrival of the Three Kings, also known as the Wise Men, who brought gifts to the baby Jesus. In Spain, this holiday is as important as Christmas, and it’s celebrated with grand parades, family gatherings, and delicious food.

On the evening of January 5, towns across the province of Almeria will host parades, each filled with colourful floats, entertainers, and the Kings themselves, who throw sweets and toys to the crowds. The parade in Almeria City is the biggest and most spectacular in the province that draws a large crowd.

Families also enjoy the traditional ‘roscon de Reyes’ (King’s Cake), a sweet pastry in the shape of a ring decorated with candied

fruit. Inside, there’s a small surprise, whoever finds it is said to have good luck for the year ahead. This magical evening is

full of joy for all ages, and it’s a great way to experience Spanish culture. Be sure to check your local town’s social media pages for up-

to-date details on parade times, starting points, and routes. Every town celebrates in its own unique way, so don’t miss the fun!

Costa de Almeria • Issue No. 2061 • 2 - 8 Januar

Three Kings festivities.

Images: Almeria Town Hall

Water warnings

Catherine McGeer

ALMERIA is currently dealing with one of its worst water shortages in recent history. A large part of the province is in a state of emergency due to the ongoing drought, and it’s impacting both residents and farmers. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the water situation has reached critical levels, with some towns now facing a daily limit of 200 litres of water per person. This has created a lot of tension between local governments, farmers, and environmentalists, all trying to figure out how to handle the situation.

The Almanzora Valley has been hit especially hard since the suspension of the Negratín-Almanzora water transfer in 2021, which cut off 50 million cubic me-

tres of water each year. The desalination plant in Carboneras is a vital but fragile resource for the region. While desalination is seen as a temporary fix, both farmers and experts are calling for more sustainable solutions, such as modern irrigation methods like drip systems that can save water.

In towns like Cuevas de Almanzora, local authorities are working to improve water reuse and irrigation systems. But they’re quick to point out that more longterm solutions are necessary to make sure the province doesn’t face another crisis in the future. As Almeria continues to deal with the water shortage, finding a balance between immediate needs and sustainable practices will be key to its future water security.

Running into 2025

THE 2024 San Silvestre race in Almeria wrapped up the year with a bang, attracting 2,100 runners who filled the city’s streets with energy and excitement.

Mohamed Koula and Elia Roda took the top spots, but the real highlight was the festive atmosphere that took over Almeria.

From early afternoon, the streets were excited as participants, many in creative costumes, prepared for the six-kilometre race. This year’s theme, ‘Run Towards a Better World,’ focused on environmental awareness, making it a fun way to promote a good cause.

The race kicked off at 7.00pm in front of La Salle school, taking runners throu-

gh popular streets like Avenida García Lorca and Paseo de Almeria. With a relaxed pace and plenty of support along the way, it was an event that welcomed people of all ages and fitness levels.

As always, the San Silvestre race wasn’t just about running, it was about giving back too. This year, the event supported Dárata, an association for people with autism. The evening ended with music, cheering, and a prize ceremony at the Rambla.

With next year marking the race’s 18th year, Almeria’s San Silvestre continues to be the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year, combining fun, fitness, and community spirit.

San Silvestre 2024.

Almeria faces critical water shortage.

Identifying Unknown Callers

“Avoid spam calls with these easy tips”

RECEIVING a call from an unfamiliar number can be unsettling, especially in Spain where spam calls are common. Fortunately, you can find out who’s calling without risking a call back.

There are several free and easy methods to identify unknown numbers and avoid wasting time on spammers.

Apps like Truecaller and Hiya are popular choices in Spain, instantly notifying you if a call is spam or displaying the caller’s name if known. Truecaller provides real-time identification and blocking, while Hiya offers similar features, letting you know if the call is legitimate. Both rely on crowdsourced data, meaning they become more accurate as more people use them.

If you’d rather not download extra apps, try using What sApp. Save the unknown number to your contacts, then open WhatsApp. If the number is registered, you’ll see their profile photo and name, helping you decide whether the call is worth returning.

Find out who is calling you.

A quick Google search can also help. Many spam callers are reported online, allowing you to verify whether the number is associated with unwanted calls. Some phones in Spain, such as those from Bq, include Google’s spam detection by default, warning you when calls might be spam.

Another option is checking known spam number lists on-

line. Several websites maintain updated databases of reported spam callers, making it easy to see if a suspicious number appears on their lists.

By using these simple methods - downloading a caller ID app, checking WhatsApp, searching online, or consulting spam lists - you can determine who’s calling without ever having to pick up the phone.

Pension changes in 2025:

“What you need to know”

MILLIONS will receive a letter from the Spanish social security system in January to inform them of changes to the pension system in 2025.

The changes affect expatriates who have contributed to Spain’s Social Security system.

The letter in January 2025 will inform pensioners not only of changes in pension amounts but also

the age at which people may retire.

In 2025, the ordinary retirement age will increase by two months on 2024. Thus, it will be possible to retire at 66 years eight months if you have contributed less than 38 years and three months.

However, those who have contributed into the Spanish system for longer will still be able to retire at age 65.

Despite Spain spending record levels on pen-

sions, those eligible are set to enjoy increases in income during 2025.

Contributory pensions will rise by 2.8 per cent. This means that those who have made contributions to the system by working here will enjoy boost to their pension.

Minimum pensions will also increase by 6 per cent and by 9.1 per cent for those with a dependent spouse or widows with family responsibilities.

These increases mean that the minimum retirement pension for single-person households is set for 2025 at €12,241.6 per year and €15,786.4 in cases with a dependent spouse.

The Minimum Living Income (Ingreso Minimo Vital) will also increase by 9 per cent.

The IMV guarantees a minimum income for those whose pensions fall below this level basic level.

Food prices to rise

THE basic food shopping basket in Spain has become 9 per cent more expensive since the government announced VAT reduction measures two years ago.

The average price of a basket of supermarket shopping has increased by 5.56 per cent in 2024, even though there has been a drop of 15 per cent in extra virgin olive oil, a 10 per cent price reduction in bananas, an 11 per cent drop in potatoes, and 16 per cent less in sunflower oil. The average price of the basket is currently €32.87, with all main distribution chains supposedly moderating prices.

However, the president of the consumer association Asufin, Patricia Suárez, claims that the VAT reduction measure has not been effective due to the lack of monitoring and channels for compliance, meaning that food distributors have taken advantage and upped their prices accordingly to take advantage of the government’s measures, something the government was warned would happen.

The government will withdraw all food tax reductions as of January 1, except for olive oil, where the VAT will be kept at 4 per cent instead of the 10 per cent that was added before the inflationary crisis began.

With the new year, the VAT on basic-need foods will return to 4 per cent, while pasta and seed oils will start again at 10 per cent.

High

Earners Hit in 2025

“January Pension Reforms Begin”

JANUARY 2025 will see the introduction of increased contributions for high earners in Spain as part of new reforms. The rules will affect those earning over €4,900 per month and has been introduced as part of reforms to help cover the state’s current costs for pensions.

Around 1.2 million workers in Spain currently fall into the high-earners category.

Up until now, those earning above the maximum cap of €4,720.50 per month were exempt from paying further contributions on what they earned above the maximum cap.

Also, from January onwards, those earning above the cap will pay these extra contributions charged on a sliding percentage scale depending on the value of their earnings.

From 2025, all those people earning above the new cap (set to €4,900 per month from January) will pay a further 0.92 per cent of contributions from their salary in addition to the cap rate to be paid on €4,900. This applies to those who fall into an earnings bracket between the cap and 10 per cent more than the cap, (which equates to those earning between €59,000 and €65,000 per year, approximately).

Those earning between 10 per cent and 50 per cent above the maximum cap, will pay a further 1 per cent on top of the cap rate.

Finally, those earning 50 per cent more than the maximum cap, (roughly €89,000 annually) will pay an extra 1.17 per cent in addition to the maximum cap rate.

Expats who have paid into the Spanish system will be affected by the recent changes to pensions.

Pixabay

Credit: Shutterstock, JarTee.

Sweet celebration

Catherine McGeer ZURGENA is gearing up for a sweet treat that’s hard to miss! On January 5, the town will unveil the largest roscón de Reyes (King’s Cake) in the whole of Almeria, stretching over 60 metres. The best part? It’s all home-made, free to enjoy, and packed with rich, traditional cream.

After smashing last year’s record with a 40-metre cake, Zurgena is stepping it up with an even bigger one this year. The event will take place at the Renfe Station at 5.00pm, just ahead of the Three Kings Parade,

making for a festive afternoon for everyone.

Alongside the cake, everyone will get a free cup of hot chocolate or sweet wine, perfect for a winter treat. As with all roscón traditions, you can expect surprises hidden inside, including a haba (bean), a king, and crowns. And, of course, the Three Kings will be there to hand out slices.

Last year’s event brought in over 200 people, and with a cake this big, this year’s celebration is set to be even bigger. So, if you’re in the area, don’t miss this fun, sweet tradition!

QUEO, a male Iberian lynx, was released recently in Velez Rubio as part of an ongoing effort to reintroduce the species to the Highlands of Lorca region in the Region of Murcia.

Born in 2019 in the Doñana-Aljarafe area, Queo’s release is aimed at encouraging him to pair with Tahúlla, a female lynx released in March 2023. Tahúlla, originally from the La Olivilla breeding centre in Jaen, had travelled in search of a new home before settling in Velez Rubio.

The release event was attended by local councillors along with Javier Salcedo, director of the ‘LynxConnect’ project.

This release is part of the regional government’s effort to strengthen the reintroduction zone in the Highlands of Lorca, while also building ecological corridors to link lynx populations across the region.

Since 2012, the Murcia region has been working on finding and preserving suitable habitats for the Iberian lynx.

Love in the Wild Aguilas on wheels

AGUILAS has just rolled out a brand-new cycling-friendly website, offering 10 exciting cycling routes for both locals and tourists. This move is part of the town’s efforts to promote sports tourism, recognising its key role in boosting the local economy.

The website is a key feature of the ‘Descubre Aguilas’ (Discover Aguilas) tourism sustainability plan, funded by the European

This year, 10 lynx have been released, joining efforts with Andalucia and other partners to create a sustainable and stable lynx population across the Iberian Peninsula. The

project brings together various organisations, including public institutions, environmental NGOs, and universities, all committed to protecting this endangered species.

Union’s Next Generation EU program. It includes detailed info on each route, available in Spanish, English, French, and German. The routes, which start and end in the town centre or nearby villages, cater to all levels of cyclists, with different difficulty levels and bike types.

To make planning easier, the site also highlights must-see tourist spots along each route,

plus colour-coded maps to show the terrain’s difficulty. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or something more challenging, Aguilas has something for everyone.

So, ready to hit the road? Check out the new Cycling Friendly website and start planning your perfect ride through Aguilas! For the link to the website see the Aguilas Town Hall Facebook page.

Image: Shutterstock/ Jesus

Rewilding the Highlands.

A giant cake awaits.

Image: Zurgena Town Hall

Magic mailbox is ready

Catherine McGeer

THE town hall of Albox has set up a special mailbox for children to send their letters to the Three Kings (Reyes Magos) ahead of their visit on January 6.

This is a fun way for little ones to share their wishes and dreams for the year and of course the gifts they want from the Three Kings.

The mailbox is now available at the town hall, so kids can drop off their letters any time before the big day.

The Three Kings are a big part of the holiday season in Spain, bringing joy and surprises to families.

Albox is joining in the tradition, offering a chance for children to get involved and feel the magic of the

Send your wishlist.

season. So, if your child wants to let the Three Kings know what’s on their wish list this year, don’t wait!

The mailbox is ready and waiting for their letters, full of excitement and hope before the Kings come to town.

Christmas lunch

AGE SUPPORT Almanzora hosted its Christmas Lunch Club at the New Bar International. The 35 VIPs attending were welcomed with a complimentary glass of cava or bucks fizz and escorted to their reserved seat.

The fantastic team from the restaurant served a traditional Christmas lunch and afterwards everyone welcomed the man of the moment, Santa Claus. He came with a gift for everyone, shaking hands with some and kisses and hugs from others

as he made his way round the room.

After the excitement settled down there was a further surprise as Steve Jackson took to the stage to perform a full show of Christmas and swing style music. There was dancing and much laughter and a raffle to win a hamper. Everyone enjoyed themselves and thanked Vanya, Sue and Ray for organising the festivities.

Taberno’s tasty events

TABERNO is all set to host a special Roscón de Reyes (Three Kings Cake) tasting event on January 5, promising an afternoon of delicious treats and exciting surprises. The event will take place at 5.00pm at the Espacio Escénico de Taber-

no, where locals and visitors can enjoy this beloved Spanish tradition.

This year, there’s an extra twist: hidden inside the cakes will be surprises for those lucky enough to find them, including the much-coveted figure of the

king. Whoever finds it will receive a special prize, making the experience even more exciting.

Families can look forward to a range of children’s activities throughout the day, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The event is a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together to celebrate the festive season, enjoy local flavours, and have some fun.

Whether you’re a Taberno local or just visiting, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Make sure to head over to the Espacio Escénico on January 5 to join in the fun and enjoy a slice of tradition!

Image: Albox Town Hall

Ray, Vanya, Ann and Sue from Age Support with Santa.

Roscón surprises await.

Images: Shutterstock/ Sylvie Pabion Martin

Desert adventure

IN the heart of Almeria, you’ll find something truly unique, the Tabernas Desert, Europe’s only real desert. Known for its stunning landscapes and cinematic history, this desert became the backdrop for classic Western films like The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Today, it’s a fantastic spot for hiking and a little walk through movie history.

hike a bit of movie magic. The desert’s natural beauty, with its tough plants and animals, shows how the landscape and the films have both left their mark on the area.

A year of change

The main trail is about 12 kilometres long and takes around four to five hours to complete. It’s a moderate hike that leads you through dry ravines, wide desert plains, and cool rock formations. Along the way, you’ll come across old film sets from the golden age of Westerns, which gives the whole

The best time to visit is in the cooler months, autumn, winter, or spring, since summers here can get pretty hot. After your hike, you can visit nearby parks like Oasys MiniHollywood and Fort Bravo, where you can explore original movie sets and catch live Western shows.

Hiking in the Tabernas Desert isn’t just about the views, it’s a chance to step into the history of cinema and nature in one go.

ALMERIA is gearing up for a big makeover in 2025, with three major projects that will completely change the city and bring a boost to its economy. The rst of these is the ongoing transformation of the city’s Rambla, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. This project, along with the planned renovation of the Paseo de Almeria (Almeria Promenade) and the opening of the port to the city, will reshape the city’s look and feel.

Starting in January 2025, work on the Paseo will focus on a section between Puerta Purchena and Navarro Rodrigo, with the aim of nishing by Christmas 2025. These renovations are part of a broader plan to revitalise the area, inspired by the success of pedestrianisation projects in cities like Malaga and Granada. The new design will connect the city centre with the port, creating a livelier and more accessible space for residents and visitors.

Another exciting part of this transformation is the integration of the port with the city. The port will soon have a new, energy e cient exterior, better access roads, and public spaces. This massive project, costing over €11 million, is expected to improve tra c ow and boost the local economy.

With these projects, Almeria is taking a major step forward, making the city more modern, sustainable, and connected in 2025.

Almería’s exciting new future.

The Wild Wild West.

Image: Shutterstock/ Joke van Eeghem

The Christmas Village

Catherine McGeer VERA has been given the title ‘El Pueblo de la Navidad’ (The Christmas Village) by Spanish television station TVE thanks to its incredible holiday decorations. This year, the town has really outdone itself, turning its streets into a magical winter scene. Pepa, a local resident, said it’s ‘better than any other year,’ with a display that’s both beautiful and full of festive spirit.

The creative mind behind the decorations is interior designer José Manuel de Haro Pérez. He’s designed a snow-covered forestlled with charming details like owls, bears, and squirrels. One of the main attractions is a special Santa Claus house set on the town hall’s balcony, where Santa and his helpers are busy getting ready for Christmas.

Vera’s holiday decorations don’t stop there. The town is also home to two impressive arches: one showcasing gifts and toys, and the other featuring

THE Almeria Provincial Council is pressing ahead with plans to improve public services and infrastructure across the province. One of the latest projects will breathe new life into Dalías, with a focus on modernising six key public spaces. The project, called ‘Improvement and Conditioning of Urban Parks’, will invest over €435,000 into upgrading areas in the town centre and nearby Celín.

elegant gold details to give o a classic New Year’s vibe. The entire town is decked out in lights and Christmas cheer, making it a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy the season.

must-see Christmas destination, drawing visitors in with its festive charm, and will continue to do so until January 8.

Space to breathe

Dalías gets makeover.

The spaces to be revamped include the Escalera (staircase) on Calle Ronda del Cerrillo, Plaza Colonia de la Luz, Plaza de las Palmeras, Plaza los Hernández, Plaza de Almohara, and Plaza 28 de Febrero. These areas, which are currently in poor condition, will be transformed into inviting parks and public spaces.

The upgrades will offer something for everyone, from new playgrounds for children to peaceful spots for rela-

xing. One of the key goals of the project is making sure the spaces are accessible to all.

Antonio J Rodríguez, the Deputy for Promotion, praised the investment, saying it will allow Dalías residents to enjoy more and better outdoor spaces. He also highlighted that these types of projects are possible thanks to support from the Provincial Council, which helps smaller municipalities fund improvements they couldn’t manage on their own.

Vera’s holiday magic.

Image: almeria.es

Image: Albox Town Hall

Albox blooming

Catherine McGeer

THE Albox Town Hall teamed up with AMPA Velázquez for a pine reforestation day, and it was more than just planting trees. Families and kids turned up, ready to get their hands dirty, and the result was an afternoon filled with teamwork, laughter, and a shared goal: making Albox greener.

It wasn’t just about digging holes and planting saplings. People spent quality time together, creating memories that will last as long as the trees they planted. “We’re not

just planting trees; we’re planting hope,” one participant said, summing up the day perfectly.

This kind of project shows how small actions can have a big impact. Not only will the new pines help the environment, but the event also strengthened the community spirit.

The town hall thanked everyone who joined in and helped make this happen. Albox is already looking better, and this is just the start. The Albox local council plans to keep working together for a greener, brighter future!

Improved local services

A NEW municipal funeral home is being built in Alcudia de Monteagud, a town in the Sierra de los Filabres, thanks to the Almeria Provincial Council. With a budget of €220,000, the project aims to give locals a place to say their nal goodbyes without having to leave their town.

The construction was recently checked out by Antonio J Rodríguez, the provincial deputy for Development,

and the town’s mayor, Juan Manuel Sánchez, along with technical experts. The new funeral home will be located on Calle Noguera (Noguera Street) and will cover 157 square metres. Inside, there will be a waiting room, adapted restrooms, a wake room, a funeral stand, and a patio.

The building will have a simple, traditional look to blend in with the town’s style. One key feature of the

A boost for Pulpi

THE town of Pulpi has just rolled out its new app, ‘Pulpi Activa’, designed to boost the area’s commercial and tourism activities.

Part of Spain’s ‘Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan’, which is funded by the European Union, the platform aims to make local businesses more visible and attract more visitors.

The app provides users with everything from event schedules to special o ers from local businesses, making it easier for

design is the separation between areas for the public and those used for services, ensuring privacy and respect for mourners. The public will enter from Calle Noguera, while there will be a separate entrance for the transportation of the deceased. Rodríguez stressed how important this project is, not just for providing essential services, but for improving the overall quality of life in the town.

residents and tourists to discover what’s happening in Pulpi.

It’s also a tool for better communication between businesses, tourists, and the town hall.

Using a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, ‘Pulpi Activa’ collects data to help businesses improve customer service, create stronger marketing strategies, and assess the impact of local events.

With multimedia content and interactive features, the

app is set to promote the town’s commercial areas and tourist spots. The project is also about building a sense of community.

It encourages locals to get involved, helps businesses connect with one another, and provides valuable insights for decision-making. Plus, business owners and tourism sta will receive training to get the most out of the platform.

It’s a great step toward making Pulpi an even better place to live and visit.

Planting hope, growing together.

Images: Albox Town Hall

Race to Dakar

WHAT better way to kick off the new year than by clearing out old things and finding some new treasures? Trex Andalucia Sanctuary is hosting a Car Boot Sale this January, and everyone is welcome!

If you’ve got items to sell, you can book a pitch for just €5. Be sure to bring your own table! To reserve your space, contact the Sanctuary on +34 620 402 176.

Don’t have anything to sell? No worries! The sale will be a fun day

Car Boot Sale Family fun

out, with plenty of stalls offering bargains. Plus, food and drinks will be available to purchase throughout the day.

Best of all, all proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the animals at Trex Andalucia Sanctuary. It’s a great way to get involved, support a good cause, and enjoy a day of shopping and socialising. Mark your calendars and make sure to swing by for a fun and rewarding day!

GINES BELZUNCES, a local from Huercal-Overa, is set to make history by becoming the first person from the town to compete in the legendary Dakar Rally in 2025.

Known as one of the toughest races in the world, the Dakar Rally will be a big challenge, but Ginés is ready for it.

After taking part in the 2022 Rallye du Maroc, he’s been training hard to get even better and make sure he’s fully prepared for his Dakar debut. His hard work and passion for motorsport have made him a local inspiration.

The town hall of Huercal-Overa is cheering him on, wishing him the best of luck on this exciting adventure. They’re

also encouraging everyone in town to follow along and support Ginés as he tackles each stage of the race.

With the name of Huercal-Overa behind

him, Ginés is all set to take on this incredible challenge, and the whole town is excited to see him race in one of the most famous events in the world.

LOS GALLARDOS is gearing up for a fantastic Three Kings celebration on January 5 and 6, and everyone’s invited!

Things kick off at 12.30pm and carry on until late, so there’s plenty of time to soak up the fun. Expect a feast of home-made treats, including tapas, rice dishes, and crepes. Bring your appetite because there’s ‘much more’ in store!

For families, there’s loads to enjoy, kids can dive into face painting and musical games while the grown-ups sing their hearts out during karaoke. And

let’s not forget the live music, adding to the festive atmosphere all day long. Organised with the local music group Los Gallardos-Bedar, this event is a chance to come together with friends and neighbours for food, fun, and a slice of local culture.

Why not mark it in your diary? Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or just looking for a good time, this is the place to be. Come along and join in the celebrations! For more information see the Los Gallardos Town Hall social media pages.

easyJet to Almeria

EASYJET is making it easier for British people to visit Almeria with new direct flights from London Southend and Bristol airports. Starting in March and June 2025, respectively. The flights will run twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays from Bristol.

Almeria, known for its interesting history and stunning beaches, is becoming an appealing alternative to the

more crowded Spanish resorts of Malaga and Alicante. Visitors can explore the impressive Alcazaba fortress, wander through the charming Barrio de la Chanca, and experience the unique Tabernas Desert, famous for its appearances in Hollywood films.

Plus, with warm temperatures often above 20°C even in December, it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunshine year-round.

The new flights are expected to give a boost to the local economy, bringing more British tourists to the region. This increase in visitors will benefit businesses, create jobs, and help promote the beauty and culture of Almeria to a wider audience. With the added convenience of direct flights, it looks set to become a popular choice for holidaymakers.

Start the year right.

Huercal-Overa’s Dakar debut.

Image:

Huercal-Overa Town Hall

PORTUGAL has decided to stop obliging motorcyclists from taking their bikes for technical inspection from January 1, 2025.

The ITV (inspección técnica de vehículos), as it is known in Spain, has been deemed unimportant by the Portuguese parliament, who voted the legal requirement out, marking a significant shift in the country’s motorcycle regulations.

The decision is the culmination of a 12-year battle between

various political groups. The ITV is supposed to ensure the safe roadworthiness of vehicles. In Portugal, motorcycle numbers have grown by 400 per cent since 1995, and yet accidents have fallen by 80 per cent. Instead of forcing motorcyclists to pass the technical inspections, Portugal focused more on road-use education, better infrastructure, and more

THE second busiest airport within the European Union is Schiphol which serves Amsterdam and surrounding areas and it gets busier as spring ends and summer arrives.

policing.

The Portuguese parliament has turned around regulations against European Union rules, which has required all member countries to apply a technical inspection to motorcycles since 2014. However, Portugal has decided that it is not necessary for them, and the regulation has been reversed. This decision has led to questions about

Spain’s approach to the ITV issue, as the country has been one of the strictest since 1987.

The question now is should the Spanish do the same, especially now that the ITV has been extended to checking the condition of electric scooters?

Some fear that by eliminating the ITV for motorcycles, relaxing rules could lead to more accidents. However, Portugal has given the perfect excuse to rethink the ITV and focus on education instead.

Portugal scraps ITV Schiphol cancellations June

It seems logical therefore and in the best interests of the travelling community that flights should be reduced by 25 to 30 per cent between June 21 and June 27.

The reason is simple, there will be a NATO Summit held in The Hague on June 24 and 25 and to add to the ‘problems’ the closure of airspace over The Hague in anticipation arrivals will coincide with the planned closure of the Buitenveldertbaan, a key Schiphol west-east runway that runs along and above the A4 motorway.

According to the Government of The Netherlands, they are expecting 45 heads of state, along with their de -

fence and foreign affairs ministers, as well as 6,000 delegation members and

2,000 journalists many of whom will travel on private or military jets. Due to these arrivals and departures, summer season flights will be dropped from the schedule during this period, to guarantee NATO delegation members are “properly” received, according to a spokesperson. Time will tell whether the cancellation of so many holiday and commercial flights will only have a minimal effect on the airport, as suggested by a government spokesperson, but if that is the case, environmentalists might suggest that there are too many flights in the first place!

Finland’s minimum income

FINLAND is introducing a new minimum income threshold of €1,600 per month from January 1, 2025, for foreign workers applying for residence permits.

According to the Finnish Ministry for Economic Affairs and Employment, the income limit applies exclusively to earnings from primary employment, excluding other forms of income. This measure ensures that workers have sufficient financial resources to avoid reliance on social assistance, as mandated by Finland’s Aliens Act.

While the minimum threshold for most foreign workers is set at €1,600, income requirements vary across different job categories. According to a report by Business Day, specialist roles require a minimum monthly salary of €3,638. Seasonal workers must earn at least €1,399. Minimum thresholds for other roles range from €1,030 to €3,638, depending on the job type and location. The Finnish Immigration Service also stated that exceptions to these thresholds could be made in special cases, such as for the best interests of a child or for compassionate reasons. The new threshold does not apply to asylum seekers or quota refugees. Individuals granted residence permits on compassionate grounds, plus family member of Finnish citizens are also exempt. For those already holding residence permits, the new €1,600 monthly threshold will also apply to permit extensions starting in April 2025. Failure to meet the requirement will reportedly result in rejection of renewal applications.

Expect cancellations at Schiphol Airport in late June.

Motorcycle ITV centre in Spain.

Sustainable tourism

THE new buzzwords in the tourism sector are Sustainable Tourism and Sustainable Travel.

They are currently being used by the UN tourism board UNWOT to promote travel to villages around the world to perhaps alleviate some of the tourism pressure in bigger cities.

And Austria has been commended for its role in ensuring that “tourism remains a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development” according to UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

Austria has been vitally important in measuring tourism’s economic, social, and environmental impacts in UN member states.

Best Tourism Villages is a programme set up by UNWOT to promote tourism as a pathway to preserve rural landscapes, cultural diversity and culinary traditions.

Pololikashvili has said that “By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents.”

UN Tourism commends Austria’s clear commitment to shaping a sustainable and resilient tourism future, and its leadership at both the regional and

global level in this regard.

UNWOT’s list is comprehensive usually covering some 55 villages from across the world, but in this fourth edition of the list they’ve added more via their fast-track programme.

That means that out of 260 applications to join the best villages programme across the world Austrian villages now account for 10 per cent of the newly added tourism hot spots. One of the newly added villages is Mittelberg, Austria which with its mountainous vistas, beautiful castle and wooden houses would be a stunning addition to anyone’s journey.

Buttering up the economy

POLAND has announced the bizarre release of up to 1,000 metric tonnes (one million kilograms) of frozen butter reserves. Why? To combat surging food prices – a pressing issue as the country approaches its presidential elections in May 2025.

The Polish government hopes the move will stabilise butter prices, which have skyrocketed across Europe due to global milk shortages and inflation, as reported by CNN.

butter is priced between 39.90 and 49.95 zlotys (€9.38-€11.74) depending on the brand, as reported by CNN. The auction began mid December, with a minimum bid requirement of 20 tonnes per buyer, according to the Financial Times.

according to Statista.

Poland’s inflation rate stood at 4.7 per cent in November 2024, cited by Trading Economics, a marked improvement from the 18.4 per cent peak in February 2023,

The Strategic Reserves Agency of Poland revealed that the butter will be sold in 25-kilogram blocks to businesses at a minimum price of 28.38 zlotys (€6.67) per kilogram. This is significantly lower than the retail prices at Polish supermarkets, where

Butter prices in Poland have surged 20 per cent year-on-year at the retail level, while wholesale prices have climbed 50 per cent, further increasing pressure on households, according to CNN.

The increase in butter prices is tied to milk shortages, a shrinking cattle population, and a rise in cattle diseases across Europe.

Touristic Austrian villages.

Photo Credit: Flickr Netsrak

Butter to be frozen.

Credit: Pixabay, congerdesign

AYUNTAMIENTO DE MOJACAR

Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 - 04638 Mojácar (Almería)

Telef. 950.615.009 Fax: 950.475.200

info@mojacar.es ayuntamiento.mojacar.es

First Playschool

MOJACAR has launched its rstever Municipal Playroom, an exciting initiative designed to improve the quality of life for local families. Located at CEIP Bartolomé Flores, the playroom will be open Monday to Friday from 5.00pm to 8.00pm, providing a fun and educational space for children and o ering parents a chance to enjoy complementary activities.

“This is a big step for our town,” said Francisco García, mayor of Mojacar. “The Municipal Playroom is something we’ve never o ered before, and it responds to the growing demand from our families. We’re proud to provide a space that not only takes care of our chil-

Most Beautiful Village

MOJACAR has made it into the top 10 of Andalucia’s most beautiful villages, securing an impressive fourth place in a recent ranking by tourism portal Noradoa. The survey, conducted through Noradoa’s mobile app from December 11 to 27, allowed users to vote from a list of 99 villages across Andalucia. The top spot went to Casares in Malaga, with 4,922 votes, followed by

Olvera in Cadiz, which garnered 3,711 votes. Vejer de la Frontera, also in Cadiz, completed the podium with 875 votes, though it was far behind the second-place town. Almeria also made a strong showing, with Mojacar at number four and Abrucena ranking 10th.

Other notable places in the top 10 include Ecija in Sevilla, Zuheros and Iznajar from Cordoba, and Segura

de la Sierra from Jaen. Almonaster la Real in Huelva rounds out the list.

Noradoa, a site dedicated to tourism in Spain, has created a map showcasing the most beautiful villages in each region. This ranking celebrates the charm and beauty of Andalucia’s lesser-known destinations, o ering a glimpse into the region’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

dren but also helps families balance work and personal life.”

The playroom will o er a range of creative, educational, and entertaining activities designed by professionals. Meanwhile, parents can use the time for personal well-being, with activities like yoga or a fun climbing workshop for both mothers and children.

This service has been made possible through the collaboration of Mojacar’s town hall and the Almeria Regional Government, which partially funded the project aimed at promoting work-life balance.

With the playroom, Mojacar is leading the way in enhancing family life and community well-being.

Mojacar’s padel star

MOJACAR Town Hall is celebrating one of its own, Carlos García-Alix Alarcón, for his impressive performance in the world of padel. Last week, Carlos travelled to Venice to compete in the Padelfip tournament, where he ranked among the top eight players in the world in his category.

Carlos’s talent, hard work, and passion for the sport have not only earned him a spot among the best but have also put Mojacar in the spotlight. The town hall highlighted his success as a perfect example of how dedication can lead to amazing achievements.

“It’s great to see Carlos representing Mojacar on such a global stage,” a spokesperson said. “His achievement brings pride to our community, and we’re all so proud of him.”

Carlos’s journey is a true inspiration for everyone, showing that with commitment and passion, dreams really can come true. His victory is another reason to celebrate the talent that comes from Mojacar, a town known for its strong sense of community.

Hike & explore

JOIN the exciting hiking route ‘Entre la montaña y el mar’ (Between the Mountain and the Sea) in Mojacar on Saturday, January 4, and experience the stunning natural beauty of the area. This scenic hike offers breathtaking views of both the mountains and the sea, making it the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor fans.

The adventure kicks off at 9.30am with a meeting point at the Pabellón Municipal de Deportes. The route will take you through a variety of landscapes, where you’ll feel connected to both the rugged mountain terrain and the sparkling Mediterranean coast.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun, and stay hydrated by bringing water. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore Mojacar’s beautiful scenery while enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views.

To join the hike, simply sign up by calling 950 615 025. Don’t miss out on this chance to explore one of the most beautiful areas in Spain!

Local talent excels.

Fun and learning for all.

Image: Mojacar Town Hall

Image: Shutterstock/ Love all this photography

Top villages of Andalucía.

Image: Mojacar

Town Hall

Explore nature in Mojácar.

SENDING letters / cards in the post could potentially and sadly no longer be a thing in Norway. A government-appointed commission has proposed drastic changes to traditional mail delivery, citing declining mail volumes and unsustainable costs. If approved, these changes could mark the end of regular home deliveries for most Norwegians.

Traditional mail has been on a sharp decline in Norway, with digitalisation drasti-

No more mail in Norway?

cally reducing the need for physical letters.

Postal delivery costs have continued to rise despite increasing the price of stamps – from NOK 5 in 1990 to NOK 37 (€3.15) today. Even so, revenues remain insu cient to support home deliveries.

The report outlines several recommendations to modernise Norway’s postal sys-

tem while addressing the decline in mail volume:

• Letters and printed matter would be collected from sta ed postal facilities, rather than delivered to mailboxes.

• Residents with limited digital access or physical disabilities could opt for a weekly home delivery.

Fishy goings on

SOMETHING strange is going on under the Baltic Sea, and it’s not just the usual sea creatures causing trouble. Authorities in Finland and Estonia are scrambling to figure out why a vital underwater cable went down, cutting off power between the two countries. And, with previous failures this year on the same cable, could this be more than just a technical glitch?

In November, two other underwater cables - linking Finland to Germany, and Sweden to Lithuaniasuffered similar damage. Now, some are starting to whisper that this could be the work of saboteurs.

time to uncover. In other words, no quick fixes here.

Credit: Shutterstock, Zoom Team

Finland and Estonia investigate mystery cable cut-offs in the Baltic Sea.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo tried to calm the nerves of Finns, assuring them that the power supply wouldn’t be affected, but even he admits that the cause of the problem will take

Estonian energy operator Elering isn’t ruling out international vandalism. They’re looking into every angle, but their suspicions are growing. After all, it’s not the first time this year that the Estlink 2 cable has faced major issues. Earlier, it was taken offline for repairs after a short circuit. Now, this fresh disruption has left both countries scrambling for backup power.

In the worst case, Estonia will tap into reservesbut this could be a bigger headache than anyone first thought. After all, the Baltic connector pipeline between Finland and Estonia was also targeted last year, allegedly by a Chinese cargo ship. Something’s off.

STAFF at Schipol Airport, Amsterdam, have reported increasing aggression towards themselves from passengers over the reintroduction of liquid restrictions.

Although the changes have been effective since September and the airport has released communications to inform people about the restrictions, staff say confusion is common. This confusion ‘leads

Reaching boiling point

to irritation’ and sometimes aggression.

The airport had previously been able to relax the rules due to installing advanced C3 scanners. This meant passengers could carry a much greater volume of liquids.

The reduction back to 100 ml is not due to any change in threat levels but to

FOR the 35th consecutive year the world-famous ice hotel has been built in Sweden’s Jukkasjärvi.

Taking six weeks to build by 26 artists from around the world, the hotel has 12 suites each with their own ice sculptures and theme.

Celebrated as the world’s first and largest Ice Hotel it was first constructed back in 1989 and is situated next to a beautiful river in the Swedish countryside.

Room designs change every year and this year there are motifs from ancient Greek myths, with ice sculptures of a red-eyed Minotaur and a beautifully carved Greek ship.

There’s a suite called Flight where small bird sculp-

achieve compliance with recent European Union guidelines.

Olivier Jankover, Director General for the International Airports Council in Europe (ACI) provided the following statement about the changes:

“Security is non-negotiable, it is at the very top of priorities for Europe’s air-

ports. However, the fact remains that those airports which have been early adopters of this new technology are being heavily penalised both operationally and financially.”

Other European airports which had installed the advanced scanners allowing passengers to carry more liquids before the ruling include Sweden, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Malta.

Frozen in time

tures hover around a solid ice bed and another quirky suite called Whoops Wrong Room where an icy Rhino appears to have crashed through the wall.

With new sculptures every year, taking a trip to visit this hotel is genuinely a once in a life-time experience.

Ice Hotel said that they

are “a bucket list staple for every Arctic adventure.”

Every spring the hotel is allowed to melt away, so that next year the space can once again be filled with new and exciting Ice art.

As well as the winter suites, there is an all-yearround hotel - Ice Hotel 365, wilderness camping and cabin experiences for anyone looking to book a trip to Sweden after spring comes.

The hotel has their own onsite restaurant and ice bar on site and there are daily exhibitions of the art in the winter ice suites.

Myth and Legends at Sweden’s Ice Hotel.

Photo Credit: Ice Hotel

A declining need

FOOD bank use is on the decline in Belgium, according to the Belgian Federation of Food Banks.

The objective of the federation is to ensure those in need get at least five square meals a week, although the federation reported at the end of December, that the number of families that used the service in 2024 was down on the previous year.

Between 2019 and 2023, the demand of Belgian food banks saw continual increases. However, that number in 2024 has topped out

at 200,000, down from 210,000 the previous year, declining for the first time in years.

There are concerns, however, that simultaneously there is a decline in the amount of donations the federation’s food banks are receiving. In Belgium, as well as donations from charitable organisations collecting foodstuffs from the public, the bulk of donations come from the retail sector, with supermarkets and food manufacturers donating their overstocks. More than 700 local associations

across Belgium play a crucial role in managing surplus food from stores. These organisations ensure that safe and nutritious meals reach those who need them most. The aid is free but is reserved for those deemed in need by their local Public Centre for Social Welfare.

According to figures, the number of people considered as suffering poverty in Belgium peaked in 2018 at 16.4 per cent. The number has since shown a downward trend, although figures for 2024 have not yet been made public.

Victoria Car Hire UK Self Drive

WE are based in Horley town centre, just five minutes’ drive from Gatwick airport and a short walk to Horley mainline railway station.

On offer is a range of cars starting with small everyday cars and up to family-sized vehicles to include manual and automatic transmission. We also have a variety of both petrol and diesel fuelled engines. All cars are well maintained and presented in a clean condition.

We have full 24-hour AA breakdown cover. The most popular brands used include: Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, Citroen and Renault.

We meet our customers just outside the arrival terminal at Gatwick Airport at the authorised collection points at both the North and South terminals. We will then drive to the car rental office in Horley town centre, where the paperwork and payment are processed followed by a demonstration of the car controls and directions to the motorway if required.

The collection procedure is very efficient, taking a small amount of

A range of cars are on offer.

time and allowing the customer to swiftly proceed with their onward journey.

At the end of the hire the customer returns the car to the rental office and will be driven to the departure terminal at Gatwick Airport.

Office hours are 9am - 4pm Monday to Friday, weekends by arrangement. An out of hours service is available for late arrivals and early morning departures. Subject to conditions.

Prices are from £89 per week, which is fully inclusive with no hidden extras, the fuel in the vehicles are taken on a like for like basis - if the tank is half full, it must be returned as so.

Debit and Credit card payment accepted. No hidden extras - Fully Inclusive Delivery & Collection - Gatwick Airport only Reservations: Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm Telephone: 0044 1293 432155 / jpselfdrive@hotmail.co.uk

Volunteers help out at food bank.

Your

Do you make New Year’s Resolutions?

What is your resolution for the year 2025?

AS the clock struck 12 on December 31, people around the world welcomed the New Year with hopes, dreams and annual traditions. Some traditions are unique to each country - in Spain, for instance, people hope to bring themselves luck in the upcoming year by eating 12 grapes, one for each chime of the clock, or wearing red underwear. However, one tradition practised all over the world and carried into the New Year is making New Year’s resolutions.

From pledges to exercise more, or spend more time with loved ones, these yearly commitments offer a fresh start and a chance for self-improvement. We asked our Euro Weekly News readers whether they make New Year’s resolutions, and what promises they have made to themselves for the New Year.

A common resolution is to break a bad habit, whether it be smoking, drinking, or indulging in a sweet treat a little too often. However, Sian Agombar takes a different approach, recalling her resolution for 2024, which was to try a new restaurant every month. She found it to be “more successful than trying to give up something.”

Kenneth Faktor Carslund, on the other hand, sees little value in resolutions. In his view, it’s best to always try and be the best version of yourself and, if you need to make any changes

for self-improvement, “why wait for New Year.” He explains that if you force yourself to make a change, “you’re setting yourself up for failure in most cases.” Rodrigo J Da Silva disagrees, asserting that “you absolutely have to force yourself to do things, otherwise nothing ever gets done.”

Several readers, including Brian Francis, Tim McMahon and Gerry Wright, say that their New Year’s resolution is simply to not make any resolutions. This is certainly an easy one to keep!

Susan M Edwards Brigham, who never makes resolutions, prefers to remain hopeful and optimistic instead by wishing and praying for the best in the year ahead. Shirley Morris also avoids making resolutions, as they are “made to be broken.”

Irish-Artist Michael shares his very positive resolution - “to keep moving forward and challenge myself to do something creative and productive!”

This week’s poll question received mixed responses, with several readers avoiding resolutions, and pointing out the difficulty in sticking to them throughout the year. In the end, whether you make resolutions or not, the New Year is an opportunity for reflection, growth, and the hope of a fresh start, and we wish all our readers the very best of luck in the year ahead.

NEWS Travel

Barcelona – An unforgettable adventure for everyone

with Hispavan Campers

BARCELONA is an enchanting city based on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, and capital of Catalonia. Famed for the remarkable architecture of Antoni Gaudi, the city offers a number of diverse experiences and things to see. Whether you would rather wander through the vibrant streets of La Rambla, or relax on the sandy beaches of Barceloneta, Barcelona promises an unforgettable adventure for everyone.

Travelling with a Hispavan campervan is a great way to explore Barcelona and its surroundings, allowing you to explore at your own pace without feeling restricted by schedules and hotel bookings.

Explore Barcelona City

There are several convenient parking options nearby, allowing you to easily hop on the metro and head straight into Barcelona City. Start at the Gothic Quarter, the heart of the old town, with its stunning historical sites and the famous La Rambla. Explore the narrow streets, browse the boutiques, and dine at local restaurants. Another important site is the Sagrada Familia, just a 30-minute walk away, where you can enjoy the beauty of Gaudi’s architectural genius.

Visit the beaches of Barceloneta

If you visit during the warmer months, take a trip to Barceloneta, a vibrant seaside neighbourhood in Barcelona. Stroll along the promenade, spend the day sunbathing, or enjoy some fresh seafood

at one of the local restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Take a day trip to Montserrat Nature lovers will enjoy spending a day in Monserrat, a mountain range famous for its distinctive and dramatic sharp peaks. It’s a popular spot for hikers, with its scenic trails and breathtaking views. While you’re there, make sure to visit Montserrat Monastery, a spiritual site dating back to the 11th century which is home to the revered statue of the Black Madonna.

Visiting Barcelona in one of Hispavan’s fully-equipped campervans offers the perfect blend of comfort, freedom and adventure. With Hispavan you can see everything Barcelona has to offer and explore at your own pace. It’s an ideal way to experience Barcelona and its surroundings with the convenience of a home on wheels.

SUMMARY

Whether you’re immersing yourself in the city’s culture, hiking the stunning mountains, or unwinding on the beach, Barcelona offers something for everyone. With Hispavan, your journey through Barcelona and beyond could be an effortless and memorable adventure.

DENMARK

Go fish

GREY silverfish are relatively new to Europe and, entomologists said, entered Denmark via Norway after first arriving in Germany in 2007, camouflaged in packaging materials. Unfortunately, the wingless insects, believed to have originated in South Africa, thrive at room temperature and are hard to eliminate, experts said.

Work for it

A LAW passed in December will oblige longterm unemployed foreign residents to carry out some kind of work if they wish to avoid losing benefits. The new regulations apply to those who have not lived in Denmark for nine of the last 10 years or have not been in full-time jobs for at least 30 months over the past decade

PORTUGAL

Oscar hope

PERCEBES (Goose Barnacles), directed by Laura Gonçalves and Alexandra Ramires, is included in the list of Academy Awards finalists competing in the Animated Film category. The film, which follows a goose barnacle’s life cycle, won the Short Film section at the Annecy Film Festival in France last June.

Parties end

THE Tupperware factory in Montalvo announced that it will close on January 8, with the loss of approximately 200 jobs. The factory opened in 1980 and was entirely owned by the parent company, which filed for bankruptcy in September 2024 after plastics and the direct-selling system and parties lost their appeal.

EURO PRESS

ITALY

English spoken

THE 2024 Education First review of worldwide English-language skills ranked Italy 46th out of the 116 countries surveyed, with Verona having a higher level of English than any other Italian city. Overall number one spot went to the Netherlands, followed by Norway and Singapore, with Yemen at the bottom of the list.

BELGIUM

Happy New Year

Photo credit: CC/Ralph PH

WAGES will rise by 3.58 per cent for 532,000 employees in January, owing to a programmed adjustment for inflation calculated on the inflation rate for December, which remained stable at 3.16 per cent. The pay increase will apply to white collar workers in sectors that range from publishing to call centres.

Baudoin study

VERONA: No communications problems for English-speaking visitors

IRELAND FINLAND

Too fast

A MOTORIST clocked at 150 kilometres an hour in an 80-kilometre zone in County Limerick was one of the 1,200 drivers who were flagged down for speeding offences over the pre-Christmas weekend, police reported. The gardai also arrested 101 people for driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

Spain beckons

OWING to planning issues and the strain on Ireland’s grid, data centre operators are looking abroad for sites for the high-consumption installations that account for 18 per cent of electricity output. Spain, with greater access to sustainable energy, also offers more incentives while fast-tracking permit applications.

GERMANY FRANCE

Will-power

PIERRE CARDIN died childless and intestate in 2020 at the age of 98, bequeathing a legal battle to 22 family members claiming his fortune. An 11-line, unsigned document found in 2022 named nephew Rodrigo Basilicati-Cardin as his sole heir and a Paris court will shortly announce if this is acceptable as a will.

Going nuclear

THE third-generation European pressurised nuclear reactor (EPR) in Flamanville (Normandy), France’s largest to date, finally began producing electricity for local homes on December 21. Countless technical setbacks have caused a 12-year delay and quadrupled the original overall cost to €13.2 billion.

First in line

POLICE were sent out in the early hours of December 22 after a worried woman saw a child sleeping outside a Dortmund kindergarten. They found a four-year-old who told them that she had crept out of the house while her parents were asleep as she wanted to be the first to enter when the doors opened.

Dodgy sale

BMW confirmed a report by US publication Business Insider that the carmaker had sold more than 100 luxury vehicles to Russian buyers despite sanctions introduced following the Ukraine invasion. The “irregularities” were the responsibility of employees at its Hanover branch, who now been dismissed, BMW said.

Holiday rush

FINLAND’S postal service, Posti, delivered 7 million parcels and 10 million greetings cards in the five weeks before the Christmas holidays. While most were delivered on time, cards and parcels with unclear addresses or those posted after the deadlines would arrive in the New Year, Posti sources said.

Above board

HELSINKI police said there was no insider trading involved in draft legislation for nicotine pouch flavours, which included four types made by only one manufacturer. A business rival claimed they were added by an aide to the former Education minister, to favour a factory in her home town.

NETHERLANDS

Unwanted guests

THE Schieland en Krimpenerwaard water board said that urgent action should be taken to eradicate the non-native American crayfish damaging vital weirs and locks. Talking to the NOS broadcaster, the water board officials also warned that the crayfish were damaging plants and threatening native fish.

Silent enemy

IN recent years, more than 40,000 people have been affected by a variant of the Infostealer virus that collects personal information and passwords by infecting a computer or telephone, RTL Nieuws said. Infections are rising and victims are unaware that they have been hit and their details are being misused.

A VATICAN committee will deliberate whether King Baudoin (1930-1993) should be beatified, the first step towards sainthood. Pope Francis believes the late king should be honoured in this way owing to his stance against abortion in 1990 when he refused to sign legislation decriminalising voluntary terminations.

SWEDEN

Cold comfort

ANALYSIS of data from 120,000 heart attacks in Sweden between 2005 and 2019, combined with weather reports, showed that heart attacks increased two days into a cold spell. Investigators saw fewer links with the change itself but found that heart attacks increased once freezing temperatures had set in.

Stressed moose

SWEDEN has more than 200,000 moose but biologists said that climate change is reducing the birth rate amongst them, and they are producing smaller calves. Moose suffer heat stress once temperatures rise above 14C, they explained, they eat less and fail to put on enough weight to sustain them in the winter.

NORWAY

Hit the road

TWO British tourists stopped while driving a hire car on the wrong side of the E6 in Vaernes said they thought all vehicles drove on the left in Norway, unlike elsewhere in Europe. Officers pointed out that they were lucky not to have caused a collision and gave them a quick rundown on traffic regulations.

Pay slips

A SURVEY by Statistics Norway (SSB) revealed that 44 per cent of immigrants were not happy about their economic situation and 40 per cent admitted they would be unable to pay a large, unplanned-for bill. The SSB also found that immigrants from Africa or Asia were less financially satisfied than those from Europe.

A happy new year

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WELL, here we go again. Another 12 months bites the dust. If I make it through to July I’ll actually be entering my 86th year on this spinning ball of often impenetrable mystery. To be honest, ageing itself is truly weird and can often be quite bizarre. Oddly the human mind still appears to be a young explorer of this ever-evolving environment, unfortunately at my age one only has to glance in the mirror to observe the structure it’s been travelling in is preparing for the yard of the knackers!

The one real advantage you have over many members of the human race is of course experience. It’s not exactly being higher in the intelligence stakes, it’s simply that you’ve been around longer. Although I had no idea what they were essentially talking about, my interest in politics actually goes as far back as the 1940s. At the age of seven or eight, I can still remember

Mum quite often remarking that she would always vote Labour as she thought they were ‘good to the poor’. I also recall that Dad never joined in the conversation, so he must have been simply not interested or merely retained different ideas. I’m obviously my father’s son! Over my many years I’ve experienced a number of UK Labour governments, generally a bunch of incompetent chancers that I maintain, apart from their one true success of the NHS introduction, have always been utterly useless to the country I loved. I’ve watched them assure the public how they were going to ‘fix everything’, guaranteed they would ‘save the nation’, preened like primal Madonna’s and were voted in simply because many enthusiasts were too young to remember what they were capable of the last time. In fact, I’ve never truly supported any of the British political parties. Without exception their main objectives have always been power, media publicity and the feathering of their own nests. The authorities and the way the politicians ran the

whole caboodle were my true reasons for never returning to the old country; subsequently, with this bunch of falsifiers and propaganda mad culturists now running it into the dirt, I’m more than delighted to reside in Spain; a nation which, although at this time are actually finding it difficult to give any of the political classes absolute power, is still somewhere I can sit and enjoy the good company of indigenous locals, with families and friends sharing the good things that a peaceful and so far non over run populace has to offer.

I wish you all a happy, healthy and trouble-free new year and may we hopefully watch the rest of the so-called free world experience precisely the same consequence. Hang in there; unfortunately for many of the planet’s population there’s still a long way to go. Thanks for all your good wishes and support of the old blurb. Means a lot.

Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@hotmail.com

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

Fines for stealing heating

EVER heard of ‘thermal parasitism’? Residents in Poland are facing fines of up to PLN 500 (€117) for failing to maintain minimum heating requirements in their apartments.

The move, reported by Gazeta Prawna, aims to combat ‘thermal parasitism’, where individuals turn off their heating and rely on warmth from neighbouring flats.

The Polish government has set specific temperature standards to ensure fair heating practices and avoid strain on the infrastructure. Residential areas require a minimum of 20°C, while bathrooms a minimum of 24°C.

Some housing cooperatives allow temperatures as low as 16-17°C, but exceeding this limit may result in penalties. Inspectors are conducting routine temperature checks in apartments during the heating season to ensure compliance.

The introduction of fines addresses several challenges caused by inadequate heating, such as residents relying on communal heat, which then raises overall energy expenses for others.

Heating bills can become disproportionately distributed among tenants. Also, lower temperatures can lead to dampness and mould, risking long-term damage to buildings.

Thermal parasitism.

Credit: Pexels, Patrycja Grobelny.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Tip-off

EMPLOYEES working in exclusive London restaurants like the Savoy Grill and the Ivy claim that their cover charges do not go to workers. Unions said they are considering legal action following last October’s legislation that obliges business owners to hand over all tips, service charges and cover charges to staff.

Still growing

SPAIN’S gross domestic product grew by 0.8 per cent duringthethirdquarterof2024 thanks to increased consumer spending, latest figures from Statistics Institute (INE) showed. Analysts predicted that the economy will have grown by 3.1 per cent by the end of the year, compared with 2.7 per cent in 2023.

Safe hands

TONI RUIZ, chief executive of fashion chain Mango, will take over as interim chairman following the death of founder and principal shareholder Isak Andic in a hiking accident in Montserrat (Cataluña) on December 14. Ruiz, 55, who owns 5 per cent of Mango’s capital, has been employed by the retailer since 2015.

Foot sore

HIGH street footwear retailer Shoe Zone, which has 297 stores and 2,250 employees, announced store closures following the impact of the autumn budget. Expected pre-tax profits of around £5 million (€6 million) for the year ending September 2025 are down from its previous £10 million (€12 million) forecast.

Quiz time

QUIZ CLOTHING plans to exit from London’s junior stock market (AIM) as the chain of 60 UK stores struggles to maintain buoyancy. Delisting would be best for the company and its shareholders, Quiz said, with founder Tarak Ramzan and his family, together with other major investors voting to leave AIM.

STAT OF WEEK

TDR CAPITAL, which owns 67.5 per cent of supermarket chain Asda, has given up control of Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten.

The London-based private equity firm bought 80 per cent of Hurtigruten in a 2014 “take-private” transaction. Since then, the shipping company founded in 1893 has developed into one of Norway’s biggest domestic ferry operators, and also organises Northern Lights cruises.

At the same time, TDR suffered important losses after providing Hurtigruten with £310 million (€375 million) to survive the pandemic and the Norwegian company has a debt pile that has swollen to £1.16 billion (€1.4 billion). As a result, the company reported interest repayments totalling £177.6 million (€214 million) in 2023, plus a £57.9 million loss (€69.8 million).

TDR is now relinquishing its Hurtigruten holding and will hand over to creditors who include London-headquartered Arini Capital

SCRANTON ENTERPRISES, the holding company owned by various directors of Catalan pharmaceuticals company Grifols, has additional interests outside pharmaceuticals.

These include the Juve & Camps cava bodega and, according to sources quoted in financial daily Cinco Dias, Scranton is looking for an investor for the upmarket label.

The Grifols holding company acquired its Juve & Camps stake in 2017 by

€1.25 billion

paid by BBVA, Merlin and San Jose, the three partners of Crea Madrid Nuevo Norte, to acquire land for their development programme in the Spanish capital.

Leaving Norway

Management and AlbaCore Capital, as well as the US global investment management firm Barings. Letting go of Hurtigruten will allow TDR to concentrate on other portfolio companies which include Asda. After buying out Zuber Issa’s stake in June this year, TDR is now a majority shareholder with Moshin Issa and Wamart Inc holding the remaining Asda shares.

Plagued by under-investment and weak management, the UK’s third-largest supermarket chain’s market share now stands at 12.8 per cent, compared with 14.8 per cent when TDR first acquired its stake. Confronted with a debt pile of approx £6 billion, TDR has brought in Allan Leighton, a former Asda chief executive, in hopes of reviving the ratailer’s flagging fortunes.

Grifols sells some fizz

snapping up the shares belonging to the Rosal Juve branch of the ca-

va-producing family.

Insiders explained that the Grifols executives hope

Iberdrola go-ahead Case study

ONLY 5.8 per cent of student loans were paid over the past five years, and millions still owe £50,000 (€60,196).

The largest sum that a graduate has ever repaid amounted to £137,000 (€166,136) although another currently owes a record £252,554 (€304,059), which the National Union of Students (NUS) said was “truly alarming.”

Despite the loans, a recent NUS survey found that 17 per cent of students resorted to food banks.

SPANISH energy company Iberdrola has cleared the final hurdle towards obtaining 100 per cent of its US subsidiary, Avangrid.

Following previous consent from the Federal and Maine regulators, the New York regulator has now approved Iberdrola’s application to acquire the 18.4 per cent of the sustainable energy company not in its hands.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, Avangrid shareholders will receive $35.75 (€34.33) each for their shares, which will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Those with holdings on December 2, 2024, will receive their quarterly dividend in January, and Avangrid will in future operate as a private company, maintaining its headquarters in Connecticut.

PONTEGADEA, the company that manages Amancio Ortega’s property investments, announced £18.1 million (€21.8 million) losses for subsidiary Pontegadea UK in 2023

The first time without a profit for the company the Inditex mogul created in 2014, the 2023 dip was attributed to the increased provisions for deterioration that Pontegadea UK made on its British property investments in 2023.

These provisions rose to £65.6 million (€79.2 million), 40 per cent more than in 2022 when Pontegadea’s £1.2 million (€1.4 million) profits were the lowest to date.

THAMES WATER, notorious for sewage leaks, allegedly redirected millions earmarked for environmental cleanups to other uses.

in this way to bring in some extra cash in an attempt to reduce Scranton’s debts, as it has done with other disinvestments in the past.

Juve & Camps posted sales of €25 million and a net profit of €300,000 in 2022, the last year with available figures.

Scranton, a 75% stakeholder in the company, can expect to make €80 million out of the transaction.

Pronovias strategy

PRONOVIAS will finish 2024 in the red for the eighth consecutive year.

This is also the wedding dress company’s first full year with the US investment firm, Bain Capital, which took over in April 2023.

The Catalan company has reported consolidated losses of €128.5 million, well above the €98 million forecast in May, and resulting from a 2017 overvaluation of intangible assets when the company was transferred to former owners BC Partners.

“2024 has been a transition year, introducing measures for reorganising the business model in line with our 2025-2027 strategic plan,”

Pronovias sources said, predicting a recovery in 2025.

Thames Water cut back on improvements following secret discussions to gauge the risks of taking the funds.

The UK’s biggest water company with 16 million customers paid “hundreds of thousands” in bonuses and “tens of millions” in dividends as recently as March, the Guardian claimed on December 13.

The company now needs £3 billion (€3.6 billion) in emergency funding and £3.25 billion (€3.9 billion) equity investment to avoid collapse.

AVIVA, a FTSE 100 company and the UK’s largest insurer, is paying £3.7 billion (€4.5 billion) for rival insurer, Direct Line.

It is offering £2.75 (€3.31) in stock and cash for every Direct Line share while making the deal more attractive to Aviva shareholders by increasing planned dividends.

The companies plan to save £125 million (€150.5 million) by cutting between 5 and 7 per cent of their combined 33,000 workforce, affecting up to 2,300 jobs over the next three years.

Photo credit: Juve y Camps

CATALUÑA BODEGA: Grifols seeks a buyer for its Juve y Camps stake

HURTIGRUTEN: Asda owner, TDR relinquishes its stake in Norwegian company

3I Group 3.581,00 3.581,00 3.559,00 294,08K

Group 2.624,0 2.637,0 2.614,0 56,68K Airtel Africa 112,80 112,90 106,90 2,47M

American 2.381,5 2.384,0 2.329,5 2,55M Antofagasta

1.634,00 1.618,00 129,49K

Group 4.948,0 5.010,0 4.943,0 145,56K

British Foods 2.043,0 2.071,0 2.043,0 211,99K

10.436,0 10.498,0 10.436,0 754,28K

Trader Group Plc 793,80 793,80 784,20 421,01K Aviva 463,10 464,60 461,60 1,52M B&M European Value Retail SA 366,90 367,80 359,50 2,65M BAE Systems 1.158,50 1.170,50 1.154,00 953,89K

263,55 264,05 262,40 8,3M

Redrow 432,20 434,80 428,20 1,25M

Beazley 815,00 834,50 813,00 205,21K

Berkeley 3.896,0 3.912,0 3.856,0 89,44K

BP 381,25 383,45 381,25 13,68M

American Tobacco 2.880,0 2.893,0 2.876,0 586,44K BT Group 144,00 144,50 143,05 4,14M

3.304,0 3.324,0 3.304,0 175,54K

129,00 129,00 127,85 2,87M

2.726,0 2.708,0 329,93K

2.645,00 2.656,00 2.645,00 552,95K

Euro

EUR/GBP: Down from £0.83 to £0.82

EUR/USD: Down from $1.05 to $1.03

Over the past four weeks, the euro has struggled to hold its ground.

Escalating tensions between Russia and the West, coupled with fragile Eurozone economic data acted as key headwinds for the single currency, as did the political uncertainty that followed the collapse of the French government.

Surprisingly, the euro managed to rally in response to the European Central Bank’s (ECB) final interest rate decision of the year. Despite the bank cutting rates and signalling more monetary easing would be needed in the coming months.

Currency outlook: US dollar turbocharged by ‘Trump trade’, euro knocked by tariff fears

The euro is likely to get off to a weak start in 2025, assuming the US dollar continues to strengthen and the ECB delivers another rate cut following its January policy meeting.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Up from €1.19 to €1.21

GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.26

Trade in the pound was uneven over the past four weeks,

with some mixed UK economic releases infusing volatility into the currency throughout December.

This was compounded by some mixed signals from the Bank of England (BoE), with the bank ultimately leaving interest rates on hold this month, but with a growing number of policymakers calling for the BoE to ease its monetary policy again.

UK economic releases are

likely to be closely watched by GBP investors over the coming weeks. Expect to see the pound struggle if these continue to raise concerns over the UK’s economic trajectory.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Up from £0.78 to £0.79

USD/EUR: Up from €0.94 to €0.96

The US dollar struck new

multi-year highs against many of its peers over the past month.

Additional tariff threats from Donald Trump provided a strong base for the US dollar. These gains were then reinforced by the Federal Reserve, as markets were taken by surprise by just how hawkish the bank was in its outlook for 2025.

Looking ahead, the US dollar looks poised to extend its momentum into the new year, with the start of Trump’s second term as President likely to help stoke USD demand in the coming weeks.

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

The euro is likely to get off to a weak start in 2025.

LOOKING for a fun way to meet new people and enjoy some great craft beers? La Portuguesa Boutique Gourmet in Almeria is hosting a unique Beer Tasting event for singles on January 31 at 8.30pm.

Over the course of two hours, you’ll sample a selection of carefully chosen craft beers, perfectly pai-

Beer tasting

red with delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a new favourite brew or a chance to connect with like-minded people, this is the perfect evening. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of laughs, and the possibility of meeting someone special, because good beer and good company go hand in hand. The evening will also

include a digestive and coffee to wrap things up. With only six-12 spots available, this intimate event is a great chance to enjoy quality beer and make new connections. Secure your spot by visiting www.primeras citas. com or sending a WhatsApp message to 623 318 904. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable night at La Portuguesa Boutique Gourmet, Calle Reyes Católicos, 26, 04004 Almeria!

Limited availability, so be sure to reserve early.

ALMERIA

Funk Federation

IF you’re a fan of funky disco beats, make sure to mark your calendar for Sunday, January 5! Funk Federation will be bringing the groove to Los Gallardos for an afternoon of amazing music you won’t want to miss.

The event, hosted by Miraflores at Los Gallardos Leisure, kicks off at 3.00pm, so grab your dancing shoes and get ready to boogie to some classic disco tunes with a modern twist.

Whether you’re a long-time disco

fan or just looking for a fun way to spend your Sunday, this event promises a great time for everyone.

Set in the charming town of Los Gallardos, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some top-notch entertainment and good vibes. So, gather your friends and get ready for a funky day of music, dancing, and pure fun!

Don’t miss out on the ultimate disco experience, Funk Federation is ready to take the stage and make this a day to remember!

Pies • Cakes • Pastries 642 589267

We are at Los Llanos market on Saturday

You can find us on Facebook L’s Kitchen

Restaurante Juan Moreno

Catherine McGeer

RESTAURANTE Juan Moreno, located in Vera, offers a perfect blend of traditional Almerian cuisine with modern twists. The story of Chef Juan Moreno began in his childhood, helping his mother in the kitchen and learning the basics of cooking with fresh, local ingredients. His passion for cooking grew as he studied at the Escuela de Hostelería de Almeria. He later worked in various kitchens, including preparing meals aboard a minesweeper during his military service.

In 2006, Juan opened his own restaurant, which has since become a well-known destination for food lovers. The restaurant stands out for its use of local produce and its ability to mix traditional Almerian flavours with those from around the world. One of the restaurant’s innovations is using

marble dishes, making it the first in Spain to do so.

Restaurante Juan Moreno also plays an important role in hospitality education, offering courses in its specially designed training room. With several private dining rooms and the ability to host large events, it’s an excellent choice for both family celebrations and business meetings.

Recognised with several prestigious awards, including ‘Plato de Oro’ and ‘Al-Andalus’, the restaurant continues to lead in both classic and modern cooking. Whether you’re looking for a great meal or a venue for an event, Restaurante Juan Moreno offers a memorable experience.

To reserve a table, visit their website or call them directly on 950 393 051. You can also reach them via info@restaurantejuanmoreno.es.

Image: Facebook/ Valery Mojácar

Image: Shutterstock/ Studio Romanticr

Increased fares

EVER since Bolt and Uber moved into Europe, licensed taxi drivers have been absolutely against complaints that they are unfair competition.

Some countries and cities have embraced their arrival whilst others have tended to make life difficult for them in order to protect the livelihood of licensed taxi drivers who have often made large investments in their vehicles and purchasing their licences in the first place.

Now the Berlin State Government has announced that it plans to introduce a minimum fare for all car-sharing services, so although it isn’t singling out Bolt and Uber it certainly looks as if they will have to increase their minimum fares in order to comply with any new regulations.

It’s good news for the taxi services and in some ways will boost car-sharing companies and their drivers incomes, but as is so often

the case with protective legislation, it will certainly see consumers having to pay higher prices or look for alternatives methods of transport.

Not unsurprisingly, the Taxi and Rental Car Association of Germany has indicated its support for the measure but backed by their international parents, it is likely that the main players will take legal action to try to stop or dilute the legislation.

Already, a similar case was lodged in Leipzig and the Court there ruled in favour of the legislation although it criticised the rates being imposed.

Duke to step down

IN his Christmas Day speech Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg announced his abdication in October 2025.

The 69-year-old has said, in what is his last Christmas broadcast to the nation that he will abdicate so that his son might assume the throne late next year.

His son Guillaume, 43, currently LieutenantRepresentant, has been taking on some of his father’s duties in recent months and will assume his new title on October 3, 2025.

During his Christmas

broadcast he said he was “proud to have been able to, together with the Grand Duchess, walk this path” with his nation.

And expressed that he had strived to speak out when the fundamental interests of his country and citizens were at stake.

He said he had paid particular attention “to the diversity of our population, the need for coexistence and sustainability in all areas of our society.”

The abdication has been rumoured since summer 2024 when the Grand Duke announced, at his

o cial birthday, that his son Guillaume would soon be taking on the role of Lieutenant- Representant.

Henri of Luxembourg will have been on the throne for 25 years next October, he became a Lieutenant-Representant in 1998 and ascended to the throne after his father’s abdication in October 2000.

He will step down just before what would have been his silver jubilee and has said that like the rest of his generation “the time has come to retire.”

Bolt is one of the two main car-sharing services in Berlin.

Credit: Bolt

Photo Credit: Natali Antonovich

Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg.

Dry January

TAKING a break from alcohol for a month, often referred to as ‘Dry January’ or ‘Sober October’, has gained traction as a health-conscious trend with numerous benefits. Cutting out alcohol for 30 days can significantly improve both physical and mental well-being.

Firstly, abstaining from alcohol can lead to better sleep. Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle, leading to poor-quality rest. Without it, you may find yourself sleeping more soundly and waking up refreshed. Secondly, you may notice improvements in your physical health. Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain. Eliminating it from your diet can help reduce caloric intake and promote weight loss.

Giving up alcohol can also boost your mood and mental clarity. Alcohol is a depressant and can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. A month-long break can help stabilise your mood and enhance cognitive function. Additionally, liver function and overall detoxification processes in your body improve without the constant burden of processing alcohol.

Social benefits include saving money usually spent on drinks and potentially discovering new activities that don’t revolve around alcohol. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, exercising, or spending quality time with loved ones, there are countless ways to enjoy life without alcohol.

Ultimately, a month-long hiatus from alcohol offers a refreshing opportunity to reset your body and mind, fostering long-term healthier habits.

Heat damage

USING hot tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can damage your hair. The high temperatures can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and split ends. Frequent use of these tools can weaken the hair shaft, causing breakage and loss of elasticity. Additionally, excessive heat can damage the cuticle, the hair’s protective outer layer, resulting in frizz and dullness.

To style your hair without heat and minimise damage, try these alternatives:

• Air Drying: After washing, gently blot your hair with a microfiber towel to remove excess water. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight styling cream and let your hair air dry. This helps retain moisture and reduces frizz.

• Braids and Twists: For natural waves, braid your hair or twist it into sections while it’s damp. Leave in overnight and unravel them in the morning for beautiful, heat-free waves.

• Rollers and Flexi Rods: Use foam rollers or flexi rods to

achieve curls without heat. Roll sections of damp hair around the rollers and leave them in until your hair is completely dry.

• Buns and Updos: Create chic updos or buns to style your hair while avoiding heat. These styles add volume and texture without the risk of heat damage. By incorporating these techniques, you can maintain healthy hair and still enjoy versatile, stylish looks without relying on damaging heat tools.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Local talent uncovered

THERE is a multi-prize-winning artistic talent in Calahonda who is beginning to take off on the local art scene.

Claire Yates has been living on the Costa del Sol for nearly 25 years. Her artistic skills and keen eye for the smallest detail lend her artworks a gentle sense of her own fun personal character to her pictures. Unlike the intensity of paintings by many photorealist artists, Claire’s art has a delicacy to it that not only visually expresses the subject of her paintings, but also tactility in the touch of the hair, the fur and even the fabrics that surround the central figures.

Born into a naturally talented family, Claire avoided the traditional artistic route and followed an education in textile design, an element that has imbued her works with a delicate tangible feel juxtaposed with shaded contrasts as sharp as the true contours of the figures she illustrates.

Axarquia

An address for Nerja Cave

NERJA councillors from the PP and PSOE parties voted to name a street after its Cave, discovered in 1959.

The proposal was put forward by Town Planning and Infrastructures councillor Jose Alberto Tome Rivas, who pointed out that the road leading to the Cave had no official name. It was invariably referred to as Carretera de la Cueva and the council meeting agreed that this should now be its formal address.

“Giving this street an official name is recognition of the Cave’s importance, not only as a tourist attraction but also as a symbol of our town’s cultural and scientific heritage,” Nerja’s mayor Jose Alberto Almijo said.

The Nerja Cave, a protected Site of Cultural Interest since 2006, is located 200 metres above sea level, three-quarters of a kilometre inland from the coast.

Cave paintings dating back 35,000 years were found there in 2012.

Mallorca

ITV speeds up the waiting

BOOKING an ITV appointment is always a challenge on the island, waiting lists are long and many people drive around with an expired ITV because they can’t find any available date.

For this reason, the Consell de Mallorca is taking its New Year’s resolutions seriously and, from January 1, will go from 20,000 annual technical vehicle inspections (ITV) to 40,000, an annual increase of 35 per cent.

This is possible thanks to three reasons: 55 new staff additions, the opening of the new station in Son Bugadelles de Calvia in the first weeks of January and a new system for booking appointments.

The appointment booking system will be through a new portal: ITV.Mallorca.es, which allows users to book a day and time slot and, most importantly, to make the payment to go directly to the inspection without having to go through the offices beforehand.

Costa Blanca South End-year success

THE tourism sector in Alicante Province closed the year on a strong note, maintaining the high levels of activity seen throughout most of 2024.

Occupancy rates on the Costa Blanca exceeded 80 per cent for New Year’s Eve, a figure that was well-received by local establishments. Although slightly lower than the previous year - when New Year’s Day fell on a Monday - this performance remained impressive. Inland accommodations also saw positive results, with occupancy reaching 74 per cent, nine points above the national average.

Mayte García, general secretary of the hotel association Hosbec, noted that coastal occupancy averaged around 80 per cent, with some destinations surpassing this percentage. She highlighted the stability achieved throughout the year, attributing it to the loyalty of visitors and efforts by establishments to improve their services and activities.

High demand was not limited to the coast, as inland areas also experienced strong activity.

Costa Blanca North Javea Three Kings Festival

CHILDREN will wait with bated breath for the Three Kings to disembark at Javea port on January 5. Melchior, Balthazar and Caspar, also known as the three wise men, bring the children of Spain presents every year in grand processions that run through the city streets.

Javea’s three kings religiously arrive by boat at the main port after having completed their long journey from the Orient.

This year on the port promenade there will be multiple children’s workshops and a storyteller to keep children busy as they wait for their arrival. Children’s morning activities will start from 10.30am and continue till 1.30pm.

Additionally, there will be a raffle held for €1,500 worth of gifts in Javea Port during the morning activities.

The Three Kings will arrive to much pomp and circumstance at 5pm, where they will begin their procession to the Plaza del Convento.

Costa Calida

March of concern

RESIDENTS of San Javier took to the streets of Santiago de la Ribera on December 29 to voice their opposition to a proposed biogas plant in the El Mirador area in San Javier. With gas masks and the Requiem by Mozart playing in the background, they held a funeral march to highlight their concerns about air pollution, fearing it could impact the already troubled Mar Menor. The march, organised by the Stop Biogas Mar Menor platform, featured people holding candles as they gathered signatures to oppose the project.

The biogas plant, which would process animal waste, has raised alarms among locals, especially given the large number of pigs in the region of Murcia already. Environmental educator Pilar Rey pointed out that the Mar Menor area already houses over a million pigs, with the entire region’s population of pigs exceeding two million.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Villa Rose

near Huercal-Overa

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Just 10 min drive to Huercal-Overa town with numerous amenities. 35 mins drive to the coast at San Juan de Los Terreros and 35 mins drive to Mojacar, Vera & Garrucha.

Villa Rose is an ideal main residence or lock up and leave holiday home. The private gardens are established and low maintenance as they are mostly laid to gravel, tiled, block paved and with artificial grass and a variety of fruit trees & Mediterranean plants. Also ideal for dog lovers due to

having separate walled & gated areas.

Entry into the property is via a sliding iron gate on to the block paved driveway easily for 4 / 5 cars. To the right is the main front garden. Leading up the driveway to the side of the villa an attractive iron gate takes you under the car port. Here also is a block built storage room with electricity connected of 16m2 and external steps to a sun terrace with artificial grass and

amazing country views.

Next, at the rear of the property is a further walled and gated garden with country views. A gated path then leads back round to the front garden. At the front of the villa is a conservatory which looks over the front, south facing garden. This makes a great extra living or dining room. Double doors lead to the living room with log burning fire and H&C aircon. An

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archway leads through to a separate dining area and a separate spacious fitted kitchen. The kitchen has a door leading back out to the front conservatory.

The bedrooms and bathrooms are through an archway from the living room. First is the large main bedroom with lots of built in wardrobes with shelving and an ensuite shower room. Next is the the family bathroom, then the 2nd large double bedroom with built in wardrobes and H&C aircon and the 3rd double bedroom also with built in wardrobes.

This 3rd bedroom also has another room from it which is currently used as a study but could be used as a fourth guest bedroom. As well as this the study has glazed, sliding doors into another conservatory at the rear of the villa which makes another ideal living room with sliding doors to the rear garden.

For more information or to arrange a viewing please contact Voss Homes DIRECTLY on 0034 950 616 827 or email us at enquiries@vosshomesspain.com to make an appointment.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European - Martine Meijn from Amsterdam

Former employee of AFC Ajax in Amsterdam, Martine Meijn, from the Netherlands, decided to leave everything behind in her home country and settle in Mijas, Malaga, and she now helps run the famous Donkey Dreamland sanctuary.

EWN: What made you decide to come to the Costa del Sol?

Martine: I travelled through Spain for seven months before arri ving in La Cala de Mijas. I think north Spain is more beautiful, but colder. So, I decided to follow the coast to southern Spain.

EWN: How has been adapting to Spanish life?

Martine: Spanish ti mekeeping. In the Netherlands, when you meet, you are there five minutes before meeting time. I need to accept that. (She laughs).

EWN: How did you get involved with Donkey Dreamland?

Martine: I came as a tourist to do a donkey walk. Afterwards, I was

asked if I wanted to stay for a while to become a volunteer. That was one and a half years ago.

EWN: What are your hopes for 2025?

Martine: For Donkey Dreamland, I wish we could find plenty of sponsors to help us with the care of our donkeys. Secondly, I hope that the animal welfare gets better. Personally, I hope to build a more personal life since I have no intention to leave anytime soon. Donkey Dreamland is currently in desperate need of financial help to repair and rebuild some of its facilities. They have a GoFundMe page at gofund.me/163efc2b.

Did you know that more than 90% of New Year’s resolutions fail by the end of January?

Instead of making too many resolutions, why not focus on developing one simple habit?

FROM COAST TO COAST

HOW can you be part of the small percentage of goal achievers in 2025?

For starters, ditch one old habit you dislike and replace it with a new one. Simple swaps like this can set you up for success without feeling like you’ve signed up for emotional boot camp.

In a world where we’re told we can accomplish everything (no doubt), don’t overpack your shopping bag - or your schedule - and overwhelm yourself.

I’m a firm believer in “less is more.” So, why not start by decluttering patterns and habits that no longer serve you? Then, set one, two, or three manageable goals.

Why do we often fail at accomplishing new goals?

For one, we clutter our notepads with endless “I will do this and that…” lists. Instead, how about we change the way we think? Let’s evict old habits - especially the ones that overwhelm us with unrealistic expectations.

Take a different approach.

Jim Rohn wisely said:

“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

It’s time to see yourself in a new light. Let go of what didn’t work - like tossing out clothes that never fit or colours that never flattered you but somehow made it into your closet because they were trendy or pushed on you by society.

Now’s the time to declare:

“Old negative thoughts and unrealistic goals - your lease is over!”

Be kind to yourself. Reflect on why past goals didn’t work. Then, take baby steps toward what you truly desire - starting with the quiet voice inside you. Yes, the one that’s been drowned out by social media, notifications, and people telling you what you should want.

This year, I’m committed to cleaning out my mental closet - the habits that stuffed it full of New Year’s resolutions - and starting fresh.

Experts say forming a new habit could take 18 days, 256 days, or an eternity (depending on your discipline and caffeine intake).

I used to play the piano. I remember the good old days when I’d lay my hands on those black-and-white keys and create colourful melodies. I felt so confident and free! But then life happened. I stopped playing for almost 20 years, and now I’m even afraid to turn on my keyboard - my fingers might creak, crack, and file a complaint with the Arthritis Association.

But as the saying goes: “Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle.”

So, I’ll start simple and small. Even if I tone down my expectations dramatically, my efforts - humble as they are - will follow me, step-by-step and little-by-little.

Not too many songs - just like goals. Focus on one well-achieved goal and make it the theme song of your life in 2025. Let it sound as beautiful as you hear it in your heart!

Can you rock that New Year’s resolution and keep it playing for at least 21 days?

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

Martine Meijn, from Donkey Dreamland.

Credit: MM

Bella’s pet-sitting this year is all sorted!

BELLA’S owners take her with them whenever they can. But when they travel abroad on holiday it is best she stays at home. So, they use HouseSit Match, finding free checked sitters via the website. It’s easy to do! Do you need pet-sitters this year?

HouseSitMatch Saves You Money - Pet-

sitting is Free for Pet owners and Accommodation is free for Sitters

We remain true to our values, promoting collaborative exchange through our managed online system - 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.

Fur-friendly

aid

A WELL-PREPARED first aid kit for your pet is essential for handling emergencies and minor injuries during travel or at home. Start with basic supplies: gauze pads, adhesive tape, and bandages to cover wounds. Include antiseptic wipes and spray to clean cuts and prevent infection. Tweezers and scissors are useful for removing splinters and cutting bandages.

Add a digital thermometer for monitoring your pet’s temperature, along with disposable gloves for hygiene. Saline solution can flush out debris from your

pet’s eyes or wounds. A pet-safe styptic powder is crucial to stop minor bleeding from cuts or nail trimming accidents.

Include hydrogen peroxide, as directed by your vet, to induce vomiting if your dog ingests toxins. Pack an emergency blanket to keep your dog warm if they’re in shock. Don’t forget any prescribed medications and a list of emergency contacts, including your vet’s information.

With these supplies, you’ll be prepared to handle most emergencies until professional help is available.

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:

1. Register as a Housesitter or a Homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Join for as little as £ 89 / €99 per year

3. Create a profile with photos

4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video interview via the site and match!

How does it work?

Join our network for a small annual fee.

You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

Trustpilot Testimonials – 4.9 / 5 Excellent

We’ve used HouseSitMatch for the last few years to find caring pet-sitters for our family of pets. It’s been a great experience; the sitters are caring and we’ve made some wonderful friends through the process.

How do you join? Register online via www. Housesitmatch.com. Need a pet or housesitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

630 234 556 Pet of the week Dude

Pat Creighton, Pet owner.

Bella loves going with her owners but can’t travel with them abroad on holiday.

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PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

CD TO USB

YOUR CD MUSIC TO A USB STICK, Small, convenient for loads of music. Play in the Car, take anywhere. Don’t know how to, having trouble with formatting, car won’t read the stick. Call 622 524 335 Arboleas area. (311483)

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www. almeria-anglican.com

Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 711 086 162 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com.

If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishlegion.org. uk/counties/spain-north

ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email  zurgenarblchairman@gmail.com - (253989)

DRAINAGE

ELECTRICAL

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (300424)

ESTATE AGENT

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information (283824)

INSURANCE

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com

LAND FOR RENT

PLOT FOR CARAVAN available with water, electricity & bathroom. In Rural area with beautiful views. Less than 3 miles from Beach/amenities. €250 per month. Email: sidetrack31@gmail.com (312074)

LANGUAGE CLASS

in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

OTHERS

EDS?  We have the solution, Ka magra pills & jells, Cialis, Side nafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs. Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

KAMAGRA, 7 Jells for men & women. €25. FREE post 711 093 440 (311589)

PETS

MISCELLANEOUS

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

MOTORING FOR SALE

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices

REMOVALS

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €7.75, medium dogs €8.50, big dogs €9.25, cats from €7.00 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotel turre@gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (305296)

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560 (300468)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (305375)

Pagani Zonda

‘Carpincho’

IN a striking fusion of automotive art and soccer enthusiasm, a Pagani Zonda crafted from 100,000 coins has been revealed at Art Basel in Miami. This unique piece, commissioned by car collector Jorge Gomez and created by Uruguayan artist Joaquin Arbiza, honours Argentine football star Lionel Messi, and features his face on the hood.

This sculpture is a detailed replica of the Pagani Zonda, a high-performance Italian supercar, constructed entirely from coins. Arbiza meticulously selected and placed each coin to capture the intricate features of the Zonda. The 100,000 two peso Uruguayan coins used in the sculpture feature the Carpincho, a South American capybara, on their reverse side, giving the car its unique name.

Arbiza took three years to build this masterpiece, creating approximately 500,000 solder points to secure the coins. Despite the unusual materials, the car’s weight matches that of a real Zonda, around 1,270kg.

If you’re wondering about the cost

Exceptional tribute is attracting widespread attention

of this coin-based creation, you’ll be surprised to find out that it costs just about $4,500 in US dollars (that’s just around €4,322!), while a real Zonda would cost millions.

This exceptional tribute has attracted widespread attention, with many admiring Arbiza’s creativity and detailed craftsmanship. After its debut at Art Basel, the Zonda Carpincho will be showcased at Pagani of Miami.

McGregor’s uncertain future

JOE ROGAN has cast doubt on Conor McGregor’s much-hyped return to the UFC. According to Rogan, the Irish superstar’s party-filled lifestyle suggests he may never fight again. McGregor, who last competed in 2021 and suffered a devastating leg injury, has repeatedly teased a comeback. Yet Rogan remains sceptical, hinting that McGregor’s current habits are incompatible with the disciplined life of a fighter. “I don’t know if Conor’s ever going to fight again,” he noted, pointing out how McGregor “is partying real hard.”

The hesitation around McGregor’s return centers on several factors. First, his high-profile injury has required lengthy rehabilitation, and it’s unclear if he’s fully recovered. Rogan also questions whether McGregor still has the mental drive to train intensively after years of physical and

emotional wear. Another sticking point is McGregor’s absence from the USADA testing pool, a mandatory requirement for any UFC comeback. His continued social media posts featuring training clips might excite fans, but they don’t confirm an official return.

Opinions among supporters are split. Some side with Rogan, believing McGregor’s prime has passed and that his off-octagon lifestyle might permanently derail his fighting ambitions.

Others argue that McGregor, once the UFC’s first simultaneous two-division champion, has both the talent and charisma to mount another comeback. Regardless of his next move, McGregor’s impact on mixed martial arts is indelible, transcending the sport and capturing global attention. For now, the question remains: will ‘The Notorious’ defy Rogan’s doubts and step back into the cage, or is his remarkable run truly at an end?

Bernabéu rebrand

ble, but rumours suggest the Santiago Bernabéu could soon be known as ‘The Bernabéu’. For nearly 70 years, it has stood as a monument to the club’s rich heritage and a tribute to Santiago Bernabéu Yeste, who played for, managed, and presided over Real Madrid, driving them to greatness after the Spanish Civil War. Reports from Marca indicate the potential rebranding is driven by commercial opportunities. Shortening the name may appeal to a global audience, making marketing more streamlined while retaining a nod to the club’s storied past. However, for many supporters, the name ‘Santiago Bernabéu’ embodies decades of history, including six European Cups and 16 La Liga titles.

has hosted countless legendary matches, from Champions League thrillers to unforgettable El Clásicos. Fans revere its legacy, seeing it as the beating heart of Real Madrid, where ambition and success converge. No official statement has confirmed a change, yet the rumours spark debate between those who believe tradition should remain untouched and those who favour modernisation. As Real Madrid’s players prepare for their next La Liga clash against Valencia on January 3, talk of a rebrand underscores the club’s desire to balance respect for history with the realities of contemporary football. Whether it remains the Santiago Bernabéu or becomes ‘The Bernabéu’, its legacy will endure.

Conor McGregor’s return to the UFC is in doubt.

The stadium’s legacy will endure.