New Year’s escape
“Palma de Mallorca: The Top Destination”
PALMA DE MALLORCA
continues to be the top destination for German tourists to see in the New Year, according to data from the flight and hotel search engine Jetcost.es .
This year, searches for flights for the year-end period have increased by 16 per cent, while hotel searches have grown by 19 per cent compared to the same time last year.
Between December 26, 2024, and January 6, 2025, key dates for the holiday season, Jetcost reported that Palma de Mallorca remains the top choice for Germans, followed closely by the French, Portuguese, and British, who also include the island in their preferred destinations.
While Europeans prefer the beaches and charm of the Spanish islands,
Spaniards are also drawn to international destinations to celebrate the end of the year. London, Paris, and Rome remain the top choices for domestic tourists, although destinations like Madrid, Tenerife, and Barcelona also appear prominently.
Ignazio Ciarmoli, Marketing Director of Jetcost, stated, “Once again, Europeans are choosing the end-of-year period to travel, explore new destinations, and welcome 2025.
“Spain continues to be their top choice, with the Balearic Islands, espe-
cially Palma de Mallorca standing out as a key destination for tourists from across the continent.
“With the increase in holiday tourism and growing search interest, Palma de Mallorca is solidifying its status as a prime winter destination.”
National leaders
“Balearic Islands lead Spain in job growth”
THE Balearic Islands ended 2024 as a clear leader in job creation in Spain, according to official data from the Balearic Government.
The archipelago saw a 3.3 per cent job increase compared to the previous year, far surpassing the national average of 2.4 per cent. This steady growth in employment has also led to a significant drop in unemployment.
In 2024, there were an average of 28,943 unemployed people, representing an 8.3 per cent decrease compared to 2023. The unemployment rate fell to a historic low of 5.4 per cent, far below the national average of 11.8 per cent.
Catalina Cabrer, the regional secretary for Employment, highlighted that these figures reflect greater job stability, with rates of temporary and part-time work falling to 8.7 per cent and 12.7 per cent, well below national averages.
She emphasised that the Balearic Islands are becoming a model of stable employment.
First babies of 2025
MALLORCA proudly celebrated the arrival of its first baby of the year in the early hours of Wednesday, January 1, 2025. At 2.47am, a baby boy named Rafel was born at Palma’s private Clínica Rotger. Rafel weighed a healthy 3.4 kilogrammes and was declared to be in perfect health.
In the Balearic Islands, the very first baby of the new year made his appearance even earlier. At 12.52am, a baby boy named Dylan Luis was born at Can Misses Hospital in Ibiza. In Mallorca’s public hospitals, the year began with two special arrivals. At 3.08am, a baby boy named Israel was born at Son Llàtzer Hospital and at 3.40am, a baby girl named Layan Fateh was born at Son Espases Hospital.
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Mallorca • Issue No.
9 - 15 Januar y 2025
Palma de Mallorca is a prime winter destination.
Image: Ajuntament de Palma / Facebook
Layan Fateh who was born at 3.40am on New Year’s Day at Son Espases - Hospital Universitari, Palma.
Image:
Green drive
PALMA’S Low Emission Zone (ZBE in Spanish) started on New Year’s Day. Now, only vehicles with environmental stickers B, C, Eco, or Zero Emissions are allowed to drive in the city’s historic centre. Cars without a sticker or those with an A sticker are banned. A-label vehicles include petrol cars made before 2001 and diesel ones made before 2006. 2025 will serve as a trial year so that no fines will
be given. Instead, owners will receive informational notices.
The city’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan has two more stages: one in 2027 and another in 2030.
The ZBE will expand, but new areas haven’t been decided yet. For now, it covers the space inside the Avenidas and Paseo Marítimo but doesn’t include these roads themselves.
Some vehicles are exempt, but authorisation
may be required. Exceptions include vehicles for goods delivery, transporting people with reduced mobility, business owners in the zone, hotel guests, public transport, and essential services like medical, police, or funeral transport.
By 2030, the goal is for 30 per cent of vehicles in the city centre to have eco or zero-emission ratings and 10 per cent across the municipality.
Holiday highlights
IN 2025, the year begins, and, as every year, workers in Spain will have 14 paid and mandatory public holidays, nine of which are national, while the remaining are determined by the autonomous communities and local governments. This year brings some peculiarities, such as the late arrival of Holy Week in April and two national holidays falling on a Saturday.
In the Balearic Islands, the following holidays will be observed: January 1 (Wednesday): New Year, January 6 (Monday): Epiphany of the Lord, March 1 (Saturday): Balearic Islands Day, April 17 (Thursday): Holy Thursday, April 18 (Friday): Good Fri -
day, May 1 (Thursday): Labour Day, August 15 (Friday): Assumption of the Virgin, November 1 (Saturday): All Saints’ Day, December 6 (Saturday): Constitution Day, December 8 (Monday): Immaculate Conception, December 25 (Thursday): Christmas, and December 26 (Friday).
This means that in 2025, the long weekends will be January 6 (three days off for Epiphany), April 17-18 (four days off for Holy Week), August 15 (three days off for Assumption of the Virgin), December 8 (three days off for the Immaculate Conception) and December 25-26 (four days off for Christmas and St Stephen’s Day).
Heroic rescue
RESCUE mission: Mallorca hiker hurt on Trapa trail saved in dramatic operation.
A woman, around 60, was rescued by heroic Mallorca firefighters after injuring her ankle on the Trapa trail near Can Tomavi in Andratx. The dramatic rescue unfolded on Wednesday, January 1, when the hiker was left unable to continue due to her injury.
The elite Mountain Rescue Group, alongside teams from Calvia and Soller, swiftly arrived on the scene. They worked together to carry her to safety on a stretcher, ensuring she was safely transported back to solid ground. No doubt, her next hike will be more cautious, but she’s lucky to walk away at all.
Image: EduardoRM / Shutterstock.com
There are nine national holidays in Spain this year.
This year will serve as a trial year so that no fines will be given.
Spain adopts proton therapy
“New treatment to revolutionise cancer care”
SPAIN is gearing up to lead a bold new charge in the global fight against cancer, promising pinpoint precision and fewer complications.
A new proton-powered treatment, known as proton therapy, has just arrived in Spain, and it’s sparking hope everywhere. Unlike traditional radiotherapy (which uses photons), this supercharged method fires protons directly into tumours, stopping the radiation from spilling over into surrounding healthy tissue.
Ten new units are set to boost the Spanish frontline by 2026:
Right now, only two private centres in Spain offer proton therapy. But from 2026 onwards, that’s all set to change. A whopping 10 new facilities will open across the country, thanks in large part to a €280 million donation from the Fundación Amancio Ortega. Expect to see these high-tech centres sprouting in Galicia, Catalonia, Madrid, Andalucia, País Vasco, Valencia, and the Canary Islands.
Galicia on the go:
• The Galician unit in the north of Spain is tipped to be the first fully operational site, with doors flinging open in January 2026.
• The Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla in Santander is expected to follow suit that same year, giving more Spaniards public access to this revolutionary treatment.
Spain set to become a European leader.
So why the delay? The hefty cost of building and running these units - and the need for specialised staff - kept Spain trailing behind. But as oncologists see it, Spain will catapult from straggler to European leader in proton therapy in just a few short years.
Stay tuned for more updates - because this cancer-crushing journey is only just starting.
Free dental care in Spain
“Spain expands healthcare services”
FROM 2025, Spain’s national health system will begin offering free dental care, marking a major milestone in accessible healthcare. For the first time, dental services will be integrated into local health centres, providing much-needed relief for those who struggle to afford private treatment.
Initially, the programme will prioritise vulnerable groups, including children under
14, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities.
Low-income adults may also qualify for subsidised care, with eligibility determined by income relative to the minimum wage (SMI). This phased rollout reflects the government’s commitment to addressing health disparities while gradually expanding services.
The programme will cover essential treatments, such as emergency care, extractions, and minor surgeries, along
with preventative measures like cleanings for eligible groups. Screenings for oral cancer and biopsies will also be included, highlighting the initiative’s focus on both immediate needs and longterm health outcomes.
While the plan promises to transform oral healthcare accessibility, challenges remain. Adequate staffing, resource allocation, and public awareness campaigns will be critical to its success. The Ministry of Health has pledged to address these issues through collaboration with regional health authorities and dental professionals.
By making dental care free and accessible, Spain is taking a bold step toward a more equitable healthcare system. This initiative not only aims to improve oral health but also underscores the government’s dedication to reducing health inequalities and fostering a healthier, more inclusive society.
Returning unwanted gifts
DECEMBER is a time of gift giving; however, post-Christmas is also a time of returning those gifts to the shops they came from for a variety of reasons.
The most important thing is to know the returns policy of the establishment which may include, for example, original and undamaged packaging, a receipt, or whether a cash refund is given or a gift card of the same value of the article. In Spain, it is extremely rare that a shop would take back any product without proof of purchase, such as a paper receipt.
Another point to take into account is the condition of the products; since with any gift that has been used (or appears so), the return will be rejected.
The same goes for the packaging or box of the product: the store may request that the returned product is kept in its original box, as well as everything in it (such as cables, chargers, or spare parts). The store will need to resell the item, so it must appear as pristine as the day it was bought.
Some products have a returns deadline, such as some fashion stores which keep strict rules on this, as their turnaround could be just a few weeks, and that pullover you want to return might already be considered unsellable by the time you return it. Most will be between 30 to 60 days maximums and 14 days for purchases online.
Golden Visa scrapped
“What’s next for investors?”
SPAIN’S decision to pull the plug on the controversial ‘Golden Visa’ scheme has left potential investors and buyers scrambling to figure out what’s next. As of April 2025, this system - which allowed wealthy non-EU individuals to secure residency by investing heavily in property - will be no more.
The Golden Visa was the dream ticket for many looking to snap up a luxury home in Spain, but that door’s closing. From April, no more new visas will be issued under the scheme. However, if you’ve already got one in hand, you’re safe - for now. You’ll still be able to renew it as long as you tick the necessary boxes. read on to find out more.
First launched back in 2013, the Golden
Visa was designed to attract wealthy investors to Spain, particularly in the property market. However, under the new law published in Spain’s Official Gazette on January 3, 2025, the controversial scheme has been phased out as part of a broader set of judicial reforms. This marks the final nail in the coffin for the articles of the 2013 law that allowed non-EU foreigners to gain residency in exchange for big investments. Some are arguing that the Golden Visa boosted Spain’s economy, but others have slammed it for creating an exclusive residency system for the wealthy, often at the expense of the average EU citizen. Is ending this type of visa fair? Is this right for Spain’s economy? Or is it a move against business?
Credit: Shutterstock, Romberi
Balearic boom
IN the Balearics, the housing market is often divided into two periods: before and after the property bubble that led to the financial crisis. Before the crisis, house prices had skyrocketed, but they dropped significantly afterwards.
This trend was similar across Spain, with 2007 serving as a reference point for comparing house prices. A report by valuation firm Tinsa reveals that the Balearics is the only region in Spain where current property prices exceed those of 2007. Prices are now 16.9 per cent higher. Madrid is the next closest, with prices still 2.5 per cent
below the 2007 level.
At the city level, only Palma and Malaga have surpassed 2007 prices. Palma’s prices are 12.1 per cent higher, while Malaga’s are up by 4.6 per cent. Madrid remains slightly below the benchmark, with prices 0.2 per cent lower, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife is 1.2 per cent lower.
Tinsa also reported a 10.8 per cent rise in house values in the Balearics for 2024, the highest increase in Spain. Cantabria follows with an 8.5 per cent rise, and the Canary Islands rank third at 7.1 per cent.
Island infernos
IN 2024, the Balearic Islands experienced a total of 96 forest res, which burned 318.7 hectares across the archipelago. Mallorca was by far the most a ected island.
According to the statistical report published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Natural Environment, Mallorca recorded 63 res, accounting for 66 per cent of the total across the islands. Menorca reported ve res (5 per cent), Ibiza recorded 22 (23 per cent), and Formentera had six (6 per cent).
In terms of hectares burned, Mallorca saw the majority with 306.97 hectares, followed by Menorca with 8.22 hectares, Ibiza with 3.19 hectares, and Formentera with just 0.29 hectares.
Some of the most severe res in Mallorca included those in Albufera, which
destroyed over 100 hectares, and the Andratx re, which burned 70 hectares.
Focusing on wooded areas, the res a ected a total of 81.62 hectares across the archipelago. Of this, 79.22 hectares were in Mallorca, 1.53 hectares in Ibiza, 0.60 hectares in Menorca,
Mallorcan roots
DATA from the Balearic Statistics Institute shows that 40 per cent of Mallorca’s population has lived in the same municipality their entire life.
Petra has the highest percentage, with 55.3 per cent. Other municipalities above 50 per cent include Maria de la Salut (52.9 per cent), Llubí (51.9 per cent), Porreres (51.5 per cent), Sa Pobla (51.2 per cent), and Felanitx (50.7 per cent).
At the other end, Escorca, the smallest municipality by population, had just 12.3 per cent of its 195 residents living there their whole lives. In contrast, 55.9 per cent of Escorca’s residents were from other parts of Mallorca.
Calvia, the second-largest municipality, had the second-lowest percentage of residents born there, at 17.4 per cent. Meanwhile, 13.3 per cent of Escorca’s population were foreigners, compared to 37.9 per cent in Calvia.
Marratxi, the fth-largest municipality, had the third-lowest percentage of people born there, at 21.2 per cent, while Deia, a smaller municipality, had 23.6 per cent. Both Calvia and Deia had a foreign population of 37.9 per cent.
and 0.27 hectares in Formentera.
The deforested area also saw alarming losses, with 237.05 hectares burned in total. Mallorca accounted for 227.7 hectares, Menorca 7.6 hectares, Ibiza 1.66 hectares, and Formentera 0.02 hectares.
Cycling showdown
MALLORCA once again provides the backdrop as cycling returns to the island for international competition.
A total of 19 teams will make up the peloton for the second Garden Hotels-Luxcom Challenge Ciclista Mallorca Femenina, set to take place from January 25-27. The second edition of this professional women’s race will feature six WorldTour Teams, the highest category of the International Cycling Union (UCI).
In addition to these toptier teams, 12 Continental teams will also participate. Teams from up to nine dierent countries will come together for the race.
The Spanish National Team, led by Mallorcan rider Mavi García, will complete the peloton. The race will feature three trophies: the Marratxi Trophy (January 25), the Palma-Castell de Bellver Trophy (January 26), and the Binissalem-Port d’Andratx Trophy (January 27).
Mallorca was the most affected island.
Image: Bombers de Palma, ACiE / Facebook
View of the beautiful old town of Palma de Mallorca. Image: vulcano / Shutterstock.com.
Fridges full of good
THE mayor of Krakow, (Poland’s second-largest city), Aleksander Miszalski has taken to social media calling on those who have spare food to donate it to those in need.
He has set up four refrigerators, called ‘fridges full of good’ around different parts of the city and suburbs which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are there to remind local residents that there is still a need for assistance in feeding families in Krakow.
In addition, there are six additional locations where those with spare food may leave their excess and those in need can obtain the food that is available.
Explaining what his plans and expectations are, the mayor stated: “You can leave food products in the fridge that we would like to eat and receive ourselves. They can be vegetables, fruits, cakes, bread, preserves,
or even a jar of soup that we cooked too much of.
“Self-made products should be described accurately: what they consist of and when they were prepared. On the other hand, we do not leave raw meat, products containing raw eggs, coated articles and alcohol.
“Let’s not waste food! Let’s share it with others. In the next year’s city budget, we have planned
funds for more refrigerators full of goods so that as many residents as possible can use them in their neighbourhood.”
Like so many other countries in Europe, Poland discards millions of tonnes of edible but unwanted food each year, with more than half of that wasted coming from households rather than the many commercial outlets that exist in the city.
Tiny village hits jackpot!
THE sleepy Overijssel village of Balkbrug (population: a mo dest 4,000) is currently dan cing in the streets after scooping an eye-popping €59.7 million in this year’s Postcode lottery. Locals with the golden postcode 7707 AZ will share an asto nishing €29.85 million - talk about a new year’s windfall!
Even future residents will cash in on the prize.
One future resident who’s on the verge of moving to Balkbrug next week, has snagged a tidy €477,600 - just in time to pay for some urgent DIY for his new house!
Some residents have bagged up to €6.2 million and have wasted no time planning home improvements. Others are planning long holidays or extravagant new purchases.
Every villager in Balkbrug whose postcode starts with 7707 will get
a share of the remaining €29.85 million. The exact amounts remain under wraps for now - but watch this space as it could be another flurry of cash for the quiet countryside! As if Balkbrug’s win wasn’t enough, another €30 million has just been dished out via the Staatsloterij. The prize is split into two bundles of €15 million after the winning ticket was sold in halves. One half went to a lucky winner in Bladel, while the other half - bought in Heemskerkremains unclaimed. Will the mystery millionaire step forward? Someone out there is definitely sitting on a golden ticket.
So if you’ve been dreaming of a front-door overhaul or a cheeky skiing holiday, don’t forget to check those tickets. The Netherlands might just have room for a few more millionaires!
EU phone charger rules
NEW EU rules requiring all new smartphones, tablets, and cameras to come with the same charger port have come into force in order to cut waste and expense.
Electronics manufacturers are now obliged to fit their devices that will be sold in the Euro bloc with a USB-C, the cable connector chosen by the European Union as the common standard for charging small electronic articles.
“Starting today, all new mobile phones, tablets,
digital cameras, headphones, speakers, keyboards, and many other electronics sold in the EU will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port,” the EU Parliament posted on social media site X.
The law was first approved in 2022 following arguments with tech giant Apple, and so set the deadline to comply at December 28, 2024. Laptop manufacturers have until 2026 to adapt their machines. Although Apple has
been reluctant, they have already begun fitting their devices with the USB-C ports but claimed the rule would ‘stifle innovation’. At one point, there were more than 10 different types of charger cables that went with different brands of mobile phones. This new USB-C model design has been chosen as an industry standard, as it can charge at up to 100 watts, transfer data up to 40 gigabits per second, and even be used to connect to external displays.
Babpipes on a military car in Balkbrug (Netherlands).
Credit: Shutterstock, Remco de Wit
Mayor Miszalski added food to one of his nearest fridges.
Credit: Aleksander Miszalski Facebook
Mayor Miszalski added food to one of his nearest fridges.
andlelight concerts
THERE are four opportunities to attend a candlelight concert where audiences can hear a classical rendition of modern music.
The events lit by hundreds of candles are set in intimate theatres with flickering lights surrounding a small group of musicians.
A stunning and unique experience that should not be missed, the concerts are coming to the open-air museum Pueblo Español Mallorca on January 17 and January 18.
On Friday, January 17, there are two candlelight concerts to choose from.
The first a tribute to Coldplay starting at 7pm and covering some of their best-known works like Sky Full of Stars, Yellow, Fix you and Paradise.
The second at 9pm is a tribute to Ludovico Einaudi, the Italian pianist and classical
composer, whose works include Primavera and Giorno.
On Saturday, January 18, there are two more candlelight concerts.
Starting at 7pm the Coldplay vs Imagine Dragon tribute will play a combination of both bands’ greatest hits including Scientist from Coldplay and Radioactive from Imagine Dragons.
Then at 9pm there will be a tribute to Hans Zimmer, the German film composer, who created music for films like Dune and Gladiator.
The concerts all last for an hour and doors open 45 minutes before the shows, latecomers are not permitted entry.
You can buy tickets online from Fever, they start at €26.50 and are already selling out of certain seats quickly.
A life in publishing
THE ARTS SOCIETY MALLORCA have a year of incredible guest speakers booked with their first speaker giving an insight into the world of book publishing.
On January 21 at 7.30pm Tony Mulliken will give a talk entitled Personalities and Parties - A Life in Publishing. The talk by the Midas PR Founder will be held at the Artmadams Hotel, Palma.
MALLORCA
The power of music
‘DIVAS, THE POWER OF MUSIC’ is an electrifying concert with music from all your favourite pop and disco icons.
Divas will be on stage January 11 at 7pm, at Sala Magna, in The Auditorium of Palma de Mallorca.
The production is directed by Israel Reyes and the auditorium says it “pays tribute to the most influential female voices in pop and disco music.”
A musical voyage that starts in the 80s with legends like Cher and Gloria
Gaynor, the four performers taking to the stage Thania Gil, Nereida Peña, Miss Marieme and Dácil Suárez, will guide you through the decades to the best pop stars of recent years.
Music from artists like Madonna, Lady Gaga, Rosalía and Dua Lipa will feature in the 80-minute-long performance, ensuring that every generation finds music that inspires them to dance or sing along.
There will be more than 30 costume changes, colourful staging and the
show’s master of ceremonies is a charismatic Drag Queen who is bound to add even more humour and glamour to the evening.
The Auditorium has said that the “DIVAS is much more than a concert, it is a celebration of female power and music that has defined eras, offering an experience full of energy, nostalgia and fun to spend an unforgettable night to all attendees.”
Tickets cost €32 and can be bought from the auditorium’s website.
Explosions of colour at Esbaluard
gh to August 2025.
Midas are the leading book PR company in the UK and as a result some of their clients include The London Book Fair, The Sharjah International Book Fair, The British Book Awards and many more.
With a publishing career spanning 50 years, Tony Mulliken’s knowledge of how to get books published and reach their intended audience is invaluable and as a result will interest pros-
The Art Society have said that “Tony Mulliken is a leading light in the world of book PR and publishing and has worked with hundreds of authors from every genre.”
pective authors and published authors too.
Hear the stories of some of the authors that he has represented and find out more about successfully publishing a book.
The 45-minute-long talk will end with audience questions and be followed by a drinks and tapas reception.
Tickets for members are now available for €20. To find out how to access the event as a guest or to join the society, visit their website.
holds major art exhibitions all year round, but in January two new exhibits will stand out for visiting crowds.
The first is Cardinal Points by Seattle born artist Jessica Stockholder.
According to the museum her works “show the complex relationship between the illusionistic space of painting and the physical presence of sculpture.”
Stockholder makes si-
te-specific art installations, where visitors are visually and physically invited into the 3D art spaces she creates.
She uses household items in unique ways to create explosions of colour hanging free from or upon blank white walls.
She is world-renowned having had her work shown in some of the most famous art museums in the world.
The Stockholder exhibit will open at the end of January and will run throu-
The second exhibit is Green Fog from Mallorcan artist José Fiol. In his new works Fiol mixes two polar opposite worlds: Wimbledon 1975 and Guy Maddin’s film Green Fog a reinterpretation of Hitchcock’s Vertigo. The museum says: “Fiol uses these events as a starting point to explore how history, cinema and sports can interrelate… creating new narratives and meanings.”
The Green Fog by Fiol will also open at the end of January and will run through till May.
Tickets cost €4 and the museum is open every day barring Monday, from 10am.
Abigail Frazer
Credit: Facebook/Auditorium de Palma
ART museum Esbaluard in Palma de Mallorca
Photo Credit:Abigail Frazer
Photo Credit: Facebook Auditorium of Palma
Anonymous witnesses
ALTHOUGH Europeans often think of Sweden as being a very safe and laid back country, there is an undercurrent of professional criminal biker gangs as well as some violence from the extreme right.
Many countries allow for witnesses in serious court cases to appear anonymously but this was never the case in Sweden and has been the cause of much disagreement and debate.
In fact there have
sion and finally, the government has decided that with effect from January 1, 2025 they should be allowed.
The reasoning behind this decision is that there is a hope that anonymous ‘whistle blowers’ will be persuaded to give details of activities by various dangerous gangs if they believe that their identity will be protected and thus they should be safe from repercussions.
Regardless of negati-
much against the concept, suggesting there would be little positive results from such legislation.
A prosecutor, a suspect, or a defendant may now apply to the district court for a witness to be heard anonymously during an investigation or trial and this may be approved if the court decides that there is a ‘significant risk’ that the witness or their relatives would otherwise be exposed to serious crime.
If this is implemented in any particular case then the identity of the witness is withheld from the court and a third party lawyer will be appointed to monitor the security in that particular
Credit: James H flickr
Anonymous witnesses now allowed in Swedish courts.
Trillions up for grabs
EUROPE could soon be plunging into the North Sea’s vast reserves, but not for oil or fish - this time, it’s all about ‘mining’ trillions of litres of water to create renewable hydrogen! Sounds
bonkers? Maybe - but experts say it could spark a clean energy revolution that cements the continent’s status as a global powerhouse of green power. Here at Euro Weekly News, we love a big
Are you affected by the noise pollution in Spain? Your
splash, and this one’s shaping up to be colossal.
With some of the strictest environmental policies on the planet, mostly driven by the European Union, Europe is under massive pressure to ditch dirty fuels and switch to something cleaner, smarter, and cheaper - all without relying on imports. That’s why hydrogen’s getting star billing. As long as it’s produced with genuinely green methods, it can be one of our mightiest weapons in the war against climate change. Hydrogen doesn’t puff out any carbon dioxide when used, so it’s perfect for slashing emissions - provided it’s sourced from renewables rather than fossil fuels. And if you want truly clean hydrogen, you need electricity from eco-friendly sources like solar and wind. Cue the North Sea, which is positively howling with potential.
NOISE pollution, an often-underestimated problem, can profoundly affect human health and well-being. We all experience it, whether it’s the roaring sound of traffic, music blasting through the walls from a neighbour’s party, or the constant drilling sounds of construction nearby. It can affect our sleep, make us feel stressed, and even impact our health in the long run, leading to problems like hearing loss and heart issues. But most of all, it makes us feel annoyed and exhausted.
This was the experience of residents in the Arroyo de la Miel district in Benalmadena on the Costa del Sol, as reported by Euro Weekly News last month. The neighbours complained about sleepless nights caused by unmuffled exhaust pipes, roaring engines, and music blasting from nearby festivals and fairgrounds - and they are not alone in this situation. While this, unfortunately, is a common experience for anyone living in an urban area, some people believe that noise is simply a part of Spanish culture. So, we asked our readers: are you affected by the noise pollution in Spain?
One of the primary complaints from the residents in Benalmadena revolves around traffic noise, particularly “older men driving around in open-top convertible sports cars roaring up and down.” Brian Rae hi-
ghlighted this issue in response to our poll, describing the noise as “ridiculous” and calling for stricter enforcement against illegal exhaust systems. He noted that the persistent noise from the road outside his home prevents him from opening his windows, explaining that “it is a built-up area with no speed bumps or max speed limit signs, now due to the solid white lines being worn away they are overtaking.”
Peter Mack echoes these concerns, emphasising the need for stricter traffic noise control. He suggests that “unmuffled motos should be heavily fined.”
Not all noise complaints stem from traffic, however. Paul Slater raised a different issue - barking dogs in his neighbourhood. “It’s nonstop barking, 24/7,” he said, describing the frustration caused by his neighbours’ pets.
While specific issues, such as the barking dogs, can be challenging to address due to their nature, traffic noise emerges as a more widespread concern that many believe could be resolved. Readers suggest practical measures such as repainting road markings, introducing deterrents like speed bumps and posted speed limits, and enforcing stricter regulations on vehicle exhaust noise.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Take it easy
COUNCIL staff are working from abroad in locations ranging from Barbados to South Africa, with local authorities approving 731 requests in 2023 compared with 708 in 2022. Meanwhile, Office for National Statistics data revealed that public service productivity is now 8.5 per cent below prepandemic levels.
Best-sellers
ACCORDING to the latest figures from Tesla, the company headed by Elon Musk sold 2,231 models up to December 26 in Spain last year. This was not far short of Toyota’s 2,586 C-HRs in a month when both overtook the Dacia Sandero although, as in 2023, this remains Spain’s best-selling car for the whole year.
Starling winged
THE Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has fined digital bank Starling £29 million (€35 million)) for its ‘shockingly lax’ financial crime controls. These had left the online-only bank, founded in 2014, in a position “wide open to criminals and those subject to sanctions,” the City regulator said.
Big Four
MULTINATIONAL auditors
KPMG and EY each had 11 clients listed on Spain’s Ibex 35 index of leading companies, 63 per cent of the total, in 2024. Deloitte had four, while PwC with nine clients is almost certain to overtake them all in earnings, as it has a contract worth €130m with Banco Santander.
Wrong track
THE HS2 rail project was in a “very serious situation” Mark Wild, HS2 Limited’s chief executive said in late December. Constructing the railway would cost between £67 and £83 billion (€81 and €100 billion) at current prices, although the Transport Department argued these figures were “unreliable.”
STAT OF WEEK
will be paid in dividends based on 2024’s earnings by Spain’s principal banks, Santander, CaixaBank, BBVA and Sabadell in 2025.
Big money in takeovers
FOREIGN takeovers of UK-listed companies brought a 2024 fees bonanza for the City.
Investment advisers AJ Bell revealed that takeovers of British companies amounted to £49 billion (€59 billion) in 2024 compared with £17.2 billion (€20.7 billion) in 2023.
A spate of deals involving large companies inevitably drove up fees charged by banks and law firms involved.
A Telegraph analysis of filings for the 15 completed takeovers of FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 companies revealed that banks and law firms’ fees had amounted to £1.6 billion (€1.9 billion).
Most profitable from the
ACE footballer Lionel Messi has floated his property investment trust on the Bolsa Portfolio, an alternative Spanish stock exchange supervised by the Bank of Spain.
Messi, the former FC Barcelona idol who left in 2021, now plays for Inter Miami which is owned by David Beckham.
He was named chairman of Edificio Rostower Socimi, while his wife Antonela Roccuzzo is vice-president.
Top choice
THE Amsterdam-based European stock exchange, Euronext, was chosen by 53 debuting companies in 2024.
This represented onethird of last year’s European flotations and, as in 2023, technology was the most active sector, accounting for 40 per cent of the new listings.
Another 11 companies chose to list on Euronext in 2024, including CVC Capital Partners (Jersey), together with Louis Hachette Group (France), Paratus Energy services (Norway) and Theon International (Cyprus).
City’s point of view was the £1 billion (€1.2 billion) acquisition of TI Fluid Systems by Canadian ABC Technology Holdings.
Company records showed that the banks which had advised ABC on the British brake fluid
company’s takeover received £234 million (€282.2 million).
That amounted to almost a quarter of TI’s purchase price instead of the normal 5 per cent rate, although in this case approximately £160 mi-
llion (€193 million) was commission on refinancing TI’s debt pile. TI Fluid had paid its own bankers £37 million (€44.6 million).
The Telegraph analysis also pointed out that banks and advisers would have earned even more, as the £1.6 billion did not include takeovers where no documents were published, together with those which were not completed or were rejected.
Rejected deals include
Australian mining giant BHP’s £34 billion (€41 bn) offer for its rival Anglo American, while Rightmove staved off a £6.2 billion (€7.5 bn) approach from Australian counterpart, Rupert Murdoch’s REA.
Messi turns businessman
The company’s only shareholder is Limecu Es paña 2010, the Messi fa mily’s investment vehicle, although Reuters revealed that the trust has informed Bolsa Portfolio that it will open up to admit new investors.
Founded in 2013, the company posted a €1.7 million loss in 2023 ac-
Steelworks saved
NETWORK STEEL has bought the Thyssenkrupp’s Galmed plant in Sagunto (Valencia), which produces 350,000 tons of galvanised coils each year.
The deal, which brought to an end months of negotiations, also put an end to uncertainty after Thyssenkrupp announced more than a year ago that it intended to sell the Sagunto steelworks.
The decision was prompted by plummeting steel production in Europe owing to its uncompetitively high overheads, as well as the German company’s own losses, sources said.
Neither Thyssenkrupp nor Network Steel have revealed further details although the Spanish government and unions confirmed the deal, which will maintain the current employment and working conditions of the plant’s 120 workers.
cording to Bolsa Portfolio
Edificio Rostower owns seven hotels in Spain and Andorra, three office spaces and five apartments in Spain, plus others in London and Paris.
It has now debuted at €57.4 per share, giving the company a market capitalisation of €223 million.
Be prepared
UBER EATS, which classes delivery riders as self-employed, not employees, has set aside €136.3 million for potential tax and legal contingencies.
Portier Eats Spain’s 2021 accounts submitted in July 2024 to the Registro Mercantil, equivalent to the UK’s Companies House, showed losses of €47.3 million for that year.
This was mainly the result of assigning €57.1 million to cover eventualities arising from Work Inspections in addition to 2020’s €79.2 million allocation.
The company announced in 2021 that inspectors had begun scrutinising its activities throughout Spain, adding that it was making provisions to reflect the ‘most probable’ outcome of the appraisals.
NATWEST had its best stock market year since 1993, heading the FTSE 100 index with Rolls-Royce and British Airways in 2024. Shares in NatWest which, as Royal Bank of Scotland required a €20 billion (€24 billion) bailout in 2008, climbed 83 per cent, with total returns including dividends reaching 95 per cent. British Airways owner IAG had 99 per cent returns, while shares in Rolls-Royce, with 90 per cent returns, soared by more than 500 per cent under Tufan Erginbilgic, its chief executive since 2023.
New
BILLIONAIRE brothers Zuber and Mohsin Issa are considering a £13 billion (€15.7 billion) listing in the US for their EG Group.
According to the Sunday Telegraph and Mergermarket, the brothers have already engaged banks for the float whose £13 billion value would multiply by almost 13 the company’s 2023 profits of £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion).
While viewed as another snub for London’s stock market, New York is preferred as the US is the company’s most important market for its filling stations and forecourt convenience stores.
Still waiting
THE Post Office spent £136 million (€164.3 million) on paying lawyers involved in compensating sub-postmasters affected by the faulty Horizon computer programme. MPs on the Business and Trade Committee pointed out that this was more than 25 per cent of the £499 million (€602.8 million) paid so far from the £1.8 billion (€2.2 billion) fund for wrongly-accused victims.
Thousands have yet to receive compensation but one law firm alone, Herbert Smith Freehills, was paid £82 million (€99 million), MPs said
Photo credit: goodfon.com
LIONEL MESSI: Has floated Edificion Rostower on Spanish stock exchange.
TAKEOVERS: High fees for City bankers and lawyers.
10.712,0 10.730,0 10.552,0 2,45M
Beazley 813,00 819,00 809,00 738,01K Berkeley 3.838,0 3.878,0 3.808,0 476,46K BP 414,05 415,70 406,80 30,14M British American Tobacco 2.968,0 2.968,0 2.928,0 3,38M BT Group 147,85 148,10 145,00 16,26M
3.252,0 3.274,0 3.236,0 614,31K
136,80 138,25 136,15 42,56M
2.643,00 2.669,00 2.628,00 3,43M
5.235,0 5.305,0 5.160,0 839,55K
2.503,5 2.521,0 2.421,0 4,89M
544,00 545,50 538,00 1,88M
535,20
603,50 613,00 595,00 214,02K
BUSINESS
EXTRA
Talking Turkey
GARANTI, BBVA’s Turkish subsidiary, has signed an agreement with the Bit2Me platform to use its services for buying and selling clients’ cryptocurrency. This arrangement enables the Spanish bank to enter the crypto market in Turkey, a country where using digital currency is widespread.
Choc shock
WITH cocoa beans costing $11,425 (€11,035) by late December, their price soared by 167 per cent in 2024, overtaking Bitcoin’s rise of 117 per cent. Smuggling and dry weather in West Africa had combined to affect harvests, growers explained.
Non-doms choose Milan
NON-DOMS are leaving London as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to end the regime that allowed them to live comfortably in the capital.
Those staying in the UK without being domiciled paid tax on overseas earnings only if they brought their funds into the country, a practice that former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt wanted to change.
Now Reeves will go further still by scrapping the system entirely in 2025. This is producing an
Nice little earner
CRITERIACAIXA spent €983 million on acquiring a 9.36 per cent holding in global infrastructure and services company ACS in May 2024.
The La Caixa Group’s holding company, which manages its investments in non-financial sectors in addition to its CaixaBank stake, made a 24 per cent profit on the 25,431.299 shares which are now worth €1.2 billion.
Shares in ACS, headed by Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, were fetching €47.92 on December 30, not far short of the record €48.6 that they reached in 2007 before the property boom bubble burst the following year.
CriteriaCaixa’s holding, making it ACS’s principal shareholder after Florentino Perez, has also brought in €39.5 million in dividends since the purchase.
exodus of non-doms to Italy, whose tax system charges them €200,000 a year regardless of the size of their fortune, up from the €100,000 they paid until earlier last year.
For the ultra-rich, this is still a bargain and Diletta Giorgolo Spinola from Sotheby’s International Realty Italy told the UK media that the specialist company had seen ‘an explosion’ of enquiries following the non-dom tax changes.
Milan, Italy’s business capital, is particularly sought-after, Giorgola Spinola said, and rental deals in 2024 had soared 30 per cent compared with 2023, above all for properties costing between €15,000 and €30,000 a month.
Rome is also popular although Milan was where most of London’s non-doms were heading.
“Deals are concluded rapidly, as supply fails to keep up with demand,” she added.
Able to save
SPAIN’S households spent less than they earned during the third quarter of 2024, National Statistics Institute figures showed, with a saving rate of 7.1 per cent of their gross disposable income, compared with 5.5 per cent during the same period in 2023. After seasonal adjustments, the rate rose 14.2 per cent, reaching its highest level in three years.
Shutters down
APPROXIMATELY 13,500 shops closed in 2024, a 28 per cent increase on the previous year, although fewer than in 2020 and 2022, the Centre for Retail Research announced. Although figures were better than during the pandemic, the group’s Research director Professor Joshua Bamfied described them as ‘disconcerting’ while predicting that 2025 would be worse.
MILAN: Italy’s business capital attracts non-doms.
What a difference
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
WELL, here we are in the year of our Lord 2025. Delighted to report the weather here on Mallorca has been absolutely great. Can’t of course say that about the UK.
Yesterday parts of it were reported to be just about snowed under. Why don’t all you lovely UK online readers just pop over? You know it makes sense! Actually, (as per usual) this Yuletide, once again took up quite a bit of my time trying to find something decent on British TV. Yet again what a load of cheap bunkham they managed to churn out.
Terrible third rate ‘celebrity’ game shows and the usual wheeling out of a series of ancient movies, all of which should have been entitled ‘Carry on up the Khyber’ which is where most of them actually belonged. Nice to see Hattie Jacques again. This highly talented and sadly missed Lady of the theatre once told me that all the starring Carry On roles were paid the miserable sum of five grand for every
picture, most of them were certainly worth as great deal more than that!
The only truly lovable entertainer featured over the whole three-day period was to me the late and certainly great Tommy Cooper. It really doesn’t ever seem to matter how many times you enjoy the Tommy experience he always manages to double you over with humour and perfectly clean comedy. What a difference from the trash and obscenities most so-called comedians churn out today.
I actually met Tommy on a number of occasions at various TV and charity events (mainly in bars!) but was truly surprised after my then wife and I, who had been on a visit to my dear old Mum in her Eastbourne nursing home, decided to have dinner in a local restaurant. We had just taken our seats when in walked Tommy and his wife Gwen, who actually lived locally.
They were happy to join us and we were soon enjoying their unexpected company until the meal was subsequently served. Tommy had ordered a steak with chips, carrots and peas. We were about to tuck in when he
beckoned over the waiter. With an utterly straight face he then told the somewhat confused young man that he wanted the steak and all accompanying vegetables served up on separate plates. This was subsequently re-served as he had requested. We then proceeded to tuck in on our now somewhat crowded table, and oddly he never submitted one word of explanation for his actions.
We of course were far too polite to ask. When we were leaving, he asked if we could give them a lift home. Tommy was extremely frugal, so with his knees bent up to his chin was quite happy to squeeze all six feet four inches of himself in our mini minor.
When we finally arrived at his Eastbourne abode, he then kindly asked us to hold on he had something for us. His wife soon re-emerged and presented us with a shiny biscuit tin, a gift which later actually turned out to be full of broken biscuits! RIP Tommy. Gone aged 63. Just like that!
Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Great fish heist
INTERVIEW
LIKE something from an episode of the popular old cartoon series Top Cat with a bit of a festive twist, Madrid Local Police have released a video showing two cats pulling off an unexpected heist on a street fish vendor.
While the unlicensed fishmonger was looking the other way, the crafty cats, who seemed to be working in cahoots, snuck up on the back of the man’s lorry to grab one of the tasty fresh fish.
One cat climbed onto the back of the lorry where fish were openly on display, paused for a moment as the fish seller looked on oblivious to what was about to happen, dropped the catch briefly before recovering it, and then they both scampered off to enjoy their sushi feast like the proud victors they were. Meanwhile, the ad-hoc street vendor remained blissfully unaware of the daylight robbery occurring around his feet, even though he nearly stepped on the cats.
Madrid police used the footage as a light-hearted reminder to people to avoid distractions while driving and enjoy the holiday season with loved ones. ‘Feliz Navidad,’ they posted, urging people to stay focused behind the wheel.
Speaking European -
Marsy Popa
From graduating in law to singing full time, Marsy Popa has had an incredible journey from Romania to Spain.
MUSIC has been part of Marsy’s identity since she was 11 years old, but she also studied law and when she com pleted her degree, a friend asked her to visit Spain.
“I never thought I’d come to Spain full time. I studied law and was a singer at the same time. I was very determined to build a legal career in Romania, then this invitation came to me.
with the right people. One month later and I’m in the Canary Islands singing for all the hotels. I haven’t stopped since.
“My life changed in my first two weeks in Spain, and I never went back.” Marsy has fulfilled a lifelong dream of having a singing career here in Spain.
In Torrevieja, by happenchance she “met a musician, who put me in touch
“When I got my first contract as an artist, it meant the world to me.” She is now one of the bestknown performers in the Costa Blanca and has big plans for the year ahead with a Gladys Knight tribute and a separate tour in Spanish theatres.
As well as singing in the Dreamgirls trio, “I’ve worked with them since 2021, we all started together and built it together. I consider them family we are very close.”
Fishy thieves.
Credit: Policia Local de Madrid.
Marsy has big plans.
Marsy Popa.
Belgian ‘Wonder Woman’
DOSOGNE has smashed records and proven that anything’s possible - even running a marathon every single day for a whole year!
The Belgian ultra-runner crossed the nish line in Ghent on New Year’s Eve 2024, her 366th consecutive marathon, to a chorus of cheers. But don’t be fooled - despite completing the 15,444-kilometre challenge, Hilde was not completely exhausted. She said she was “glad it’s over,” but there was one nal hiccup on her last run: a collision with a spectator.
RECORD BROKEN: Belgian Wonder Woman runs a marathon every day for a year!
Spain new European star
WITH Germany seemingly coming under more scrutiny financially and finding it a tough task to cope with the economic hit of their main asset, the automation industry, a diamond in the rough has been unearthed - and it comes as a surprise to many.
After 366 days of pounding the pavement, this 55-year-old bio-engineer has not only proved her resilience, but also raised a whopping €60,000 for breast cancer research. Now that’s a victory with some substance.
As she passed the nish line, her mind was already ticking over the next steps: submitting GPS data, photos, videos, and witness reports to the Guin-
Spain’s success story
A DOZEN years ago, Spain was the poster child for economic despair. Its government and banks were locked in a vicious downward spiral, kept afloat only by bailouts. Young Spaniards either emigrated or took to the streets in protest over their bleak prospects. Half-built homes and deserted airports stood as grim monuments to a collapsed construction bubble.
But now the country is reportedly on course to be the best-performing, rich-world economy of 2024 on a range of economic fronts - GDP growth, inflation, unemployment, fiscal stability and even stock market performance. Economic growth and job creation are outpacing even the United States, the usual benchmark for success.
Spain’s recovery stems from reforms following the financial crisis. Overhauls in banking and the labour market have strengthened the economy, while policies encouraging renewable energy (such as scrapping
ness World Records. If all checks out, she’ll o cially hold the female record for running a marathon every day for a full year - a feat that would dethrone the previous record of 150 days held by Erchana Murray-Bartlett. She’ll also join Hugo Farias, who holds the male equivalent, with 366 consecutive marathons.
Running 42.5 kilometres a day isn’t for the faint of heart - especially when you’ve battled the u, Covid-19, multiple crashes, blisters, and even bursitis. But for Hilde, the toughest part wasn’t the physical toll - it was the mental grind.
the infamous ‘sun tax’ on solar power) have bolstered the green sector.
Tourism has rebounded spectacularly, while consulting and tech services are climbing the value chain. Services outside tourism now account for 7-8 per cent of GDP, up from 5.5 per cent pre-pandemic. Foreign investment, including Chinese firms like CAT (a battery-maker) and Chery (a carmaker), is another feather in Spain’s cap.
But challenges remain. House prices are soaring, productivity growth lags and a fragile coalition government resists needed reforms. Spain’s success story is truly inspiring - but resting on its laurels could be a costly mistake.
Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Deputy director of the Polish Economic Institute Andrzej Kubisiak has pointed out that as Germany struggles to maintain their past sparkling performances, Spain has now emerged as the star European nation.
“Spain has done a great job in spending money effecting and coping with the energy crisis,” says Kubisiak, with current Spanish president Pedro Sanchez reiterating frugality and equal income dispersion across the community and important sectors.
“Spain coped quite well with the way out of the pandemic crisis, whe-
re there was an influx of migrants, jobs appeared and funds from KPOs (knowledge process outsourcing) appeared quickly, where new investments appeared,” he stated.
Placing an utmost importance in driving down and keeping down energy costs for Spanish citizens and companies alike, the main challenge for Poland is exactly that - how
to enact this process to begin to move things in an upward trajectory in a world bound by crises. Kubisiak insists that the Green Deal should be atop of the Polish agenda, looking for solutions here that would see national regulations reducing energy costs, spiking a deep level of competitiveness on not only a European scale, but a global one.
HILDE
Credit: Facebook, Hilde Dosogne.
Spain the new inspiration?
Costa del Sol Lucky Malaga
THE first prize of the ‘El Niño’ lottery did not come to the Costa del Sol this time. The ticket number 78908 was snapped up in León in the north of Spain, according to the prize draw held on Monday, January, 6. However, a good dose of luck did fall on the Malaga Province in the form of second and third prizes.
Ticket number 06,766, the second prize, was sold in the Venta Los Pacos de Marbella and in Malaga City, in the neighbourhood of Cruz de Humilladero. The number carried a very respectable €750,000 per series, or €75,000 each for each of the 10 tickets available that each hold that number. Malaga Province also had luck with the third prize-winning number, 66,777.
It was worth €250,000 per series of 10 tickets, so €25,000 to each of the lucky people who held that numbered ticket, more specifically in Cartama, Torre del Mar, Cala del Moral, and three in Malaga City.
Axarquia 600 toys spread cheer
SIX HUNDRED toys spread Christmas cheer to vulnerable children in Rincon de la Victoria.
The town kicked off the festive season with a heartwarming gesture, delivering 600 brand-new toys to families in need. The Pabellón Cubierto Municipal ‘Rubén Ruzafa’ in Torre de Benagalbon hosted a spectacular event brimming with joy, as 267 children and their families enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food, and festive treats.
The toys were distributed as part of a charitable campaign organised by the local Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Rincon Contigo association. Among the participants in the event were Mayor Francisco Salado (PP), the town’s Social Welfare councillor Olga Cervantes (PP), and other government officials.
The generosity of everyone has proven that, when a community comes together, the impact can be real. This year’s toy drive, now an annual tradition, is more than just about gifts - it’s about spreading the word; ‘no one is alone’.
Costa Blanca North Promising year ahead
ACCORDING to the hotel association HOSBEC, 2025 is once more shaping up to be a promising year for tourism in the Valencian Community. This positive sentiment is supported by a marked increase in early bookings observed in the latter months of 2024, indicating a shift in traveller behaviour. More people are now inclined to plan their trips well in advance.
As 2024 has now drawn to a close, HOSBEC has released their annual report highlighting significant achievements. The Costa Blanca recorded an impressive 77.6 per cent overall occupancy rate, marking an increase of 4.7 percentage points compared to the previous year. From May to October, the peak summer season, occupancy rates surpassed the 80 per cent mark, with a remarkable peak of 90.1 per cent reached in August. Specific destinations demonstrated their unique appeal; for instance, Calpe achieved an impressive annual occupancy rate of 81.2 per cent.
Costa Blanca South New Year’s bundles
THE first birth in the Torrevieja Health Department for the new year occurred late on New Year’s Day at 7.25pm.
The baby, a boy weighing two kilos, was born to parents of foreign origin.
In the Torrevieja Department, over half of the 210,000 residents assisted by public health services are from abroad.
This hospital handles just over 1,000 births annually (1,057), serving mothers from 10 municipalities along the Vega Baja coastline and its nearby areas: Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Pilar de la Horadada, Rojales, Guardamar del Segura, San Fulgencio, San Miguel de Salinas, Los Montesinos, Benijofar, and Formentera del Segura.
In the Valencian Community, the first baby born in the public hospital network in 2025 arrived at Denia Hospital at 12.05am named Adrián. Adrián’s parents, Patricia Gato and Daniel Petac, are residents of Pedreguer.
Almeria
Mojacar’s big splash
MOJACAR’S New Year’s Day Swim, hosted by Mojacar Forum, marked its 10th anniversary this year. What began a decade ago with a simple idea over a drink at the Emerald Isle bar has grown into a much-anticipated annual event. Despite the chilly temperatures, participants braved the cold waters, making it another memorable day on the beach.
This year’s swim not only celebrated the event’s milestone but also served as a charity fundraiser. Funds raised were split between PAWS, the local animal shelter, and shelters in Valencia and Malaga, which were severely impacted by recent floods. In total, the event raised an impressive €5,920, with more expected from sponsorships. The amount includes registration fees, bar sales, raffle tickets, and donations.
Along with the swim, there were fun prizes for participants, including the best fancy dress, the oldest swimmer, the youngest swimmer, and the most swimmers in the water competition.
Costa Calida Jackpot joy
THE 2025 Lotería del Niño (Children’s Lottery), the Christmas Lottery held on the day of the Three Kings, brought some good news to the Region of Murcia, with several towns winning prizes, although the top prize wasn’t among them. The first prize, 78908, was sold entirely in El Corte Inglés in Leon. However, the region did receive part of the second and third prizes.
The second prize (06766) was sold in Mazarron at Loterías El Dólar and in Murcia City at L’Agustinica on Paseo de Florencia. Each shop sold 10 tickets, though the owner in Murcia wasn’t sure if any had to be refunded. In Mazarron, all four tickets were sold.
The third prize (66777) was spread across several places in the region, including Cobatillas, Lorquí, San Pedro del Pinatar, Yecla, Abanilla, and Cartagena. In Yecla, Bazar Tokio and Lotería Doña Maruja sold part of the winning tickets.
PETS
Easing vet fears
A VISIT to the vet can be stressful for both dogs and their owners. Many dogs become anxious or fearful before and during their appointment, but with some preparation, you can help your dog feel more at ease.
First, it’s important to stay calm yourself. Dogs are sensitive to their owner’s emotions, so if you’re stressed, your dog is likely to pick up on that anxiety. Speak in a calm, soothing voice, and try to act relaxed.
Before the visit, get your dog used to the idea of the car ride. Take short, nonvet related trips in the car to help your dog associate the car with positive experiences, rather than just trips to the vet. Make sure
to keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible before the appointment, including feeding and walking times.
Once at the vet, stay close to your dog, offering gentle reassurance with soft petting and treats. You can also bring along your dog’s favourite blanket or toy to provide comfort in an unfamiliar setting. In some cases, your vet may recommend calming aids like pheromone sprays, anxiety wraps, or even mild sedatives to help ease your dog’s nerves.
Lastly, rewarding your dog with treats and praise after the visit helps them associate the experience with something positive, making future trips less stressful.
Happy New Year. Time to plan petcare for 2025!
LUNA is a friendly dog, and used to having company at home. She often travels with her owners but when they go abroad she is better staying at home. Lucy her owner has been using HouseSitMatch for some years now to find pet-sitters through our network. Luna is more relaxed at home and prefers being cared for in her own space. Plan ahead like Lucy to find pet care for your furry friends.
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Stay warm!
WINTER in Spain may not bring snow, but the cold, wet weather can still pose risks to your pets. Dogs and cats are vulnerable to chilly temperatures and damp conditions, so it’s important to take extra precautions during these months.
Limit time outdoors
While rain may not last all day, it’s essential to avoid long walks during the coldest, wettest hours. Opt for shorter, more frequent outings, and keep them dry by using a waterproof dog coat or rain jacket.
Keep warm indoors
Cats and dogs, especially those with shorter fur, need a warm, dry space to retreat to when indoors. Provide a soft
bed away from drafts, and ensure your pet has a comfortable resting spot.
Dry their coat quickly If your pet gets wet from the rain, dry them thoroughly with a towel or a pet-friendly hairdryer. Damp fur can cause discomfort and may lead to skin issues.
Protect their paws
Wet streets can be slippery and harsh on your pet’s paws. After walks, wipe their paws clean and check for irritation caused by rain, mud, or street salt. By staying mindful of the weather and taking these simple steps, you can keep your dog or cat safe, healthy, and comfortable throughout Spain’s winter season.
Luna loves her pet-sitter, and prefers staying at home.
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Challenges for new England Boss
FOR the first time in their history, the English men’s national football team will see a German manager at the helm.
Many feel that Tuchel’s appointment is advantageous to players and fans alike, as the manager has key experience - and success, managing for an English side, Chelsea, as he took them to victory in the Champions League back in 2021.
With his one-year contract allowing him a golden chance to win the FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year, all eyes will be on Tuchel in his run up to a possible final, where he historically has a poor track record - Tuchel has lost seven finals. Another challenge will be how he integrates the wealth of attacking talent into the side.
But with all the challenges he will face as manager of England, he arrives to the side as one
of the most successful managers the country has seen in recent times, bringing a wealth of high-level club experience, combined with a genuine tenacity to win. Tuchel stated: “I have to prove myself and to the people who are maybe a bit con-
cerned, to prove to them how much it means to me and that it is a dream job for me.” And with a strong track record of domination in Germany, France, and England, his official start has already got fans dreaming of a World Cup triumph at last.
Thomas Tuchel in charge.