IN an astonishing turn of events during the rst half of January, Rincon de la Victoria and Velez-Malaga transformed into the hottest destinations in Andalucia.
For four thrilling days, these two vibrant towns experienced a meteorological marvel, as temperatures soared to what felt like spring and even summer levels, all thanks to the remarkable winter terral wind sweeping through the region.
It all started on January 9, when Rincon de la Victoria blazed with a jaw-dropping high of 24.1 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Velez-Malaga at an impressive 23.8 degrees. Over the course of the next four days, the warm streak was maintained, with the heatwave intensifying on January 11, with Rincon
de la Victoria reaching a high of 26 degrees Celsius. Even Algarrobo joined in the warm front, reaching a toasty 25.1 degrees.
To top o this incredible climate saga, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) revealed that
2024 has o cially been declared the hottest year on record in Malaga. The average temperature for the capital skyrocketed to a staggering 20.3 degrees Celsius. Not only that but the fantastic weather patterns witnessed in Rin-
con de la Victoria and Velez-Malaga o er a glimpse into the dramatic climatic changes that are being experienced worldwide. Sadly, it would appear the weather will likely return to temperatures more typical of this time of year.
Avocado donations
Producer Frutas Montosa collaborates with Bancosol
VELEZ-MALAGA fruit producer Frutas Montosa, which specialises in avocados and mangoes, has begun collaborating with the Costa del Sol food bank, Bancosol.
Throughout the coming year, Montosa will donate fruit and other food products to Malaga Province food banks.
“We want to contribute something of value as we did by sending food and supplies to the DANA victims in Valencia,” Montosa’s Industrial director Damian Spata said.
Expressing gratitude to Montosa, Bancosol praised Montosa for its “very positive” donation and for helping combat food waste.
“I’d like to thank socially-responsible Montosa for joining the Bancosol family and for helping to improve the diets of approximately 30,000 people in a situation of vulnerability,” Bancosol’s president declared.
Cueva de Nerja
66th anniversary of its discovery
THE discovery of the Cueva de Nerja on January 12, 1959, is an inspiring tale involving ve young men who stumbled upon this remarkable underground realm by chance.
The cave is renowned for its breathtaking geological formations and prehistoric cave paintings, some of which date back more than 40,000 years and offer invaluable insights into early human life.
Since its opening to the public, the Cueva de Nerja has become a prominent tourist attraction, drawing nearly 20 million visitors to the region.
Many dignitaries, including two original cave discoverers and the mayor, attended a commemorative ceremony for the anniversary. During his speech, the mayor reiterated the cave’s signi cance to Nerja and how he is pursuing its recognition as a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“Owing to their high price
“We now want this to be a long-term commitment in Malaga, our region,” he added. The rst consignment of recently-harvested avocados was distributed to 6,000 vulnerable Malaga families over the Christmas holidays.
on the market, fresh avocados are a premium product that not everyone can enjoy,” Montosa’s Marta Sanjuan said. “That was why we wanted families to have them at such an important time.”
Rincon de la Victoria reached a high of 26 degrees.
Credit: Shutterstock: Colorphotostock
66th anniversary of Cueva de Nerja discovery.
AXARQUIA AVOCADOS: Regular donations to Malaga food banks.
Photo credit: Frutos Montosa
Linda Hall MOTRIL is still arguing about its Three Kings parade on January 5.
The event cost the town hall €114,998 to put on but residents and opposition politicians have criticised what they described as a “badly organised, low-quality” procession.
Parade wasn’t a hit Look east to Riogordos All included
The Centrados en Motril party said the parade was botched and did not meet the conditions stipulated in the tender. There were no ambulances, although their presence was essential for guaranteeing public safety in such a massively-attended event, and potentially dangerous tractors were used to haul the floats.
This was a practice that most municipalities have now abandoned in favour of four-by-fours, the party maintained.
The PSOE party was equally unimpressed, condemning a shortage
of the sweets thrown to the crowd in some places and the exclusion of ‘emblematic’ zones from the route.
Members of the public, including the now-dissolved Asociacion Pro-Cabalgata which organised colourful parades in the past on a €15,000 budget, later told a Cadena Ser interviewer that the event was “cold and lacklustre.”
Motril’s Fiestas councillor Gerardo Romano defended the parade, which he said had exceeded ex-
pectations while recognising that there had been room for improvement “in some respects.”
IN December 2024 anybody buying a home in Malaga City would have paid around €324,100 for a 100-square metre property.
Demand continues to outstrip supply, so one square metre now works out at €3,241, a 21.5 per cent increase on 2023 according to the property website Idealista.
The picture changes the further afield that would-be buyers are prepared to go, especially those who look east along the Malaga coast instead of west.
Driving 39 minutes eastwards from Malaga City would take them to Axarquia and, more specifically, to Riogordo, 36.5 kilometres from the provincial capital. An average home
IN all, 146 families were able to benefit from Nerja’s Inclusive Urban Christmas Camp.
This was a free activity organised over the holiday period by the town hall’s Equality and Education departments and was subsidised by the regional government, the Junta de Andalucia.
“The camp at the San Miguel school was aimed at encoura-
costs approximately €80,000.
Nor would present-day house-hunters be the first to choose Riogordo, which lies below Maroma, the highest peak in Malaga Province.
Archaeologists have dated the polished axe-heads discovered in Riogordo at 10,000BC while excavations in the Sierrecilla del Area found evidence of Phoenician tombs and, not far from there, the site of a Roman villa.
Present-day Riogordo has a population just under 3,000 and property prices that Idealista puts at €801 per square metre in December 2024. This was 1 per cent lower than in December 2023, and 11 per cheaper below prices in August that year.
ging integration and coexistence for children and young people with different abilities over the Christmas period where they could have fun, learn and develop personally,” Equality Councillor Daniel Rivas said. Experts from a Nerja centre which specialises in occupational therapy, neurological rehabilitation and child development were on hand to provide “safe, inclusive and first class” attention for the children, Education Councillor Ana Maria Muñoz added.
KINGS’ PARADE: Motril prepares confetti on January 5.
Photo credit: Motril town hall
Electricity bill alert
Tips to save amid IVA hike
IT’S the start of the year, and major changes in Spain’s energy prices are coming. The costs are about to skyrocket, so what’s behind these hefty hikes, and how can you avoid paying through the nose?
Say goodbye to the electricity bill relief you’ve enjoyed over the past few years. In a controversial move, the Spanish government is slapping the IVA back to 21 per cent - up from the temporary reductions that had been in place to cushion the blow during the energy crisis.
While we’ve had IVA moving between 21 per cent and 10 per cent in 2024 depending on elec tricity prices, the game has changed as of January 1, 2025. Forget about those discounts; now, consumers will face a dramatic jump in their bills, just when they thought things might be getting easier.
As the new tariffs accumulate, here are a few tips to minimise the damage to your pocket:
1. Review your contract - It’s time to look at your energy provider and consider switching to a plan that suits your consumption habits.
2. Go green - Install energy-saving devices, like LED bulbs, and switch to energy-efficient appliances. Small changes at home can add up to big savings.
3. Time your usage - Avoid peak hours when electricity prices surge. Do your washing at the weekends on Bank Holidays if you can. You can save a small fortune by using energy-hungry appliances at off-peak times.
2025 Tax deadlines
Key dates to remember
AS the taxman gets set to hit the clock, taxpayers are being warned about the new deadline for filing their 2025 income tax returns in Spain. The Spanish tax authorities, Hacienda, have laid down the law for the 2024 income tax campaign, and you’ll want to take note.
The campaign kicks off on April 2, 2025, and runs
all the way until June 30, giving taxpayers a generous window to get their affairs in order.
For those filing online through Renta Web or the AEAT mobile app, the clock starts ticking on April 2. But don’t let your procrastination drag on - while the window remains open, the final day to get everything submitted is June 30. If you plan to submit by phone, you’ll be able to do so
starting May 6, and for those opting for face-to-face assistance, appointments can be booked from June 2.
But here’s a crucial date you might want to mark down in red: if you’re facing a tax bill and want to make sure it’s paid by direct debit, the deadline is pushed forward to June 25.
So, who exactly is on the hook for filing? It’s not just the fat cats raking in the big bucks. If you’ve earned more than €22k from a single employer, or €15,876 if you’ve had two or more paychecks coming in, you’ll need to take action.
Modelo 145 Spanish tax form dedicated to personal income tax IRPF in Spain in 2025. Hacienda have announced official dates for the 2025 tax return.
New tourist rental rule
A NEW law has just been passed in Spain that states if you want to rent your property as a short-term tourist accommodation, you must have approval from your neighbours.
The law, which originated in two sentences from Supreme Court judges in 2024, declared that the communities of property owners (comunidades de vecinos) could prohibit the activity of tourist rentals through agreements adopted in a meeting (junta de vecinos) by a three-fifths majority. That is to say, the owner of the property who plans to use it as a temporary rental must seek permission from the community association, and that permission to do so will go to a vote at the next neighbours’ meeting.
The law now also states that the president of the community of owners, or any other neighbour, can report the one using their property without due and express permission, on their own initiative, and can take legal action against the owner.
This modification, according to the president of the Andalucian Council of Colleges of Property Administrators, Manuel Jiménez Caro, has been in response to multiple complaints by homeowners, especially in flats, about the distress caused by noisy and disruptive tourists staying for just a few days at a time in their buildings.
Goodbye SIM cards
Hello eSIM!
AFTER more than 30 years, it might soon be time to wave ‘adiós colega’ to the humble plastic SIM card. Yes, Movistar, Vodafone, and other telecom giants in Spain have recently announced they’re jumping on board the eSIM propulsion rocket - a slick, new tech ready to change mobile connectivity as we know it. Spanish phone users and carriers alike are hoping for a smooth, ‘simless’ transition, if you catch our drift...
For years, SIM cards have been the silent stars of mobile technology. Invented on July 30, 1991, these tiny bits of plastic have powered our calls, texts, and internet browsing by securely lin-
king devices to networks. But now, these pocket-sized troopers might finally get their marching orders.
The eSIM - or ‘embedded SIM’ - isn’t just a chip off the old block; it’s a whole new ball game. Unlike the removable SIMs we’ve fumbled with for years, eSIMs are built directly into devices, eliminating the need for sausage fingers. Think fewer fiddly trays and more streamlined tech.
For most users, eSIM itself is free. But before you whip out your wallet to upgrade, here’s the catch: services like MultiSIM - which let you enjoy all the perks across several devices - often come with a fee.
Taxpayers have time to get their affairs in order.
Credit: Shutterstock, Mehaniq
Energy prices will increase in Spain in 2025.
Credit: Shutterstock, Oleksiichik
MANCOMUNIDAD AXARQUIA, which promotes the area’s tourist towns, is now focusing on a joint operation for the entire Axarquia-Costa del Sol zone.
Jorge Martin, Mancomunidad Axarquia’s president, and Costa del Sol Tourism and Planification director, Antonio Diaz, met recently to discuss the areas’ first operation in common at Fitur 2025, the annual Tourism trade fair in Madrid that will be held this year between January 22 and 26.
Joining forces with the Costa del Sol
“Axarquia has a shared but unique offer that we want to promote with a unified product,” Martin said.
“It’s clear to us that by uniting with the Costa del Sol, and with its backing, we shall be a more competitive destination.”
Martin went on to explain that campaigning in common with the Costa del Sol’s Tourism and Planification division
Donna Williams
ON January 13, Manuel Cordero, a Local Policeman from Nerja, was decorated with the Order of the Merit of the Local Police of Andalucia. The ceremony took place at the Edgar Neville Auditorium of the Diputacion de Malaga, attended by the mayor, councillor for Security, and chief of the Local Police.
This recognition was given to him in honour of his actions on June 29, 2023, when an extraordinary incident took place. On that day, he demonstrated
would not be limited to Fitur.
On the contrary, he added, this would extend to all national and international tourism fairs where Tourism and Planification Costa del Sol was present.
PARTNERS: Jorge Martin and Antonio Diaz announce Axarquia-Costa del Sol cooperation.
A local hero
immense courage and quick thinking when he encountered a troubling situation at the Balcon de Europa. He had noticed a young
woman teetering dangerously close to the edge and seemingly about to fall. Without a moment’s hesitation, he rushed towards
her, extending his arm just in time to grasp her wrist and pull her back to safety.
The mayor highlighted the professionalism and efficiency of Cordero when facing a situation of extreme gravity, congratulating him on behalf of the Municipal Corporation. “Manuel Cordero did not hesitate for a moment to intervene, saving the life of one person. His performance is a source of pride for our people and a clear example of a vocation for service,” he stressed.
Money from Madrid
Linda Hall
AXARQUIA is included in a central government allocation of €1.78 million to be used for restoring three Malaga Province monuments.
Together with
€743,101 for the Santa Maria La Mayor church in Antequera, and €955,244 assigned to the Plaza Ruedo Alameda in Ronda, the 17th century tower in Lagos will receive €81,104.
This represents 63 per cent of the total cost and complements restoration work costing €48,000 which was carried out by Velez-Malaga Town Hall in early 2024 and included removing the graffiti, tags and slogans that disfigured its walls.
The Lagos tower is one of 29 between Marbella and Maro that played a vital role in defending the coast against Moors, pirates and hostile countries from the 16th century onwards.
Madrid’s contribution to the three monuments restoration and maintenance has been financed by the ‘Cultural 2 per cent’ that is paid on government contracts and is used to fund the conservation of Spain’s artistic, cultural and historic heritage.
Local Policeman receives Order of the Merit.
Safe haven in Axarquia
ALL of the dogs in the Chiclana (Cadiz) pound have been moved to an animal rescue centre in Velez-Malaga.
The 24 dogs and six cats were formerly looked after at the Bahia de Cadiz centre run by Athisa, the company under contract to manage the Chiclana shelter.
“Everybody knows what these animals have been through and what the Bahia de Cadiz municipalitiesresponsible for the Chiclana poundhave had to put up with,” Chiclana’s Animal Welfare councillor Jose Alberto Cruz said, referring to Athisa.
“We had to do something and find a solution for the dogs that were living in bad conditions.”
Local environmentalist group Toniza-Ecologists in Action applauded the decision and thanked Jose Alberto Cruz for relocating the animals.
“That it had to be outside Cadiz shows how complicated this is, but it doesn’t surprise us that it should be so far away,” the association posted on its social media.
Family hiking
mart (Jesus Garcia), recognised as a pioneer of this form in Andalucia.
This first ‘Family Hiking’ event was organised by the Department of Sports of Velez-Malaga in collaboration with the Playas de Torre del Mar Sports Club, the Zafarraya Town Council, and the Veredas Blancas Club.
Meanwhile, sources at Velez-Malaga Town Hall told the local Spanish media that they knew nothing about the Chiclana animals.
A HIKING event took place on Sunday January 12, attracting over 50 enthusiastic participants who walked the scenic route known as the Colours of Zafarraya. This picturesque trail, celebrated for its stunning landscapes, marked the inaugural outing of a newly initiated hiking programme that rapidly sold out, demonstrating strong community interest.
“We assume that they have been taken to a private centre that has nothing to do with the town hall,” they said.
One of the highlights of the route was the enchanting visual experience of Land Art, created by the innovative artist Jes Ga-
The initiative saw a remarkable turnout, with every available registration slot filled to capacity. During the hike, Manuel Gutierrez, the local councillor responsible for the initiative, was present to
emphasise the local government’s ‘firm commitment’ to merging healthy physical activities with family-oriented environments. The hiking programme, which consists of six routes planned between January and June, aims to encourage families to engage in physical activity while instilling healthy habits in children from an early age. Gutierrez highlighted that the routes will be included in the Official Calendar 2025 of the Andalucian Federation of Mountain Sports, Climbing, and Hiking.
First family hike took place at Colours of Zafarraya.
Photo credit: Chiclana town hall
POOR CONDITIONS: Chiclana strays moved to Velez-Malaga.
Just in case
TO alleviate a future situation of extreme drought, Rincon de la Victoria Town Hall is sinking five wells to complement the domestic water supply.
Public Works counci -
llor Sergio Diaz pointed out that as the town’s water had to be cut off at night in 2023 and 2024, the town hall now wanted to save water and to be as self-sufficient as possible in a critical scenario.
“There is still an emergency owing to the drought and the situation of the Viñuela-Axarquia system,” Diaz warned.
“Once Malaga Health District had approved the water for domestic uses, the town hall set to work,” he said..
The cost of the new wells, which will add up to 45 litres of water per second to Rincon’s water supply, is covered by the €390,000 that the town hall is spending on overhauling the town’s water infrastructure.
Local mayor Francisco Salado reminded residents that it was vital to continue to use water responsibly.
“That’s why we won’t slacken in our efforts to improve the entire network to guarantee the service and monitor any kind of incident or leakage,” Salado said.
Slip road needed
TORROX urgently needs another A-7 access at El Morche, municipal spokesman Jose Manuel Fernandez declared.
This second link was so vital, Fernandez said, that the next plenary council meeting would vote on asking the central government in Madrid to draft plans ‘as soon as possible’ for a second slip road.
“Torrox is one of the few Mediterranean towns with a population of more than 20,000 but only one A-7 access,” Fernandez said.
“Possibly it’s the only municipality with nine kilometres of coastline in this situation.”
To that had to be added the fact that Torrox’s
also serves the Old Town and the neighbouring municipality of Competa – was inconveniently far from the coast and had only one lane in each direction.
“These deficiencies were obvious 25 years ago when the A-7 reached Torrox,” the town hall spokesman said.
“In line with the 1996 Town Plan it would have been logical and coherent to propose three links,” he added: “The
present Torrox Pueblo-Castillo-Bajo Conejito access, another for El Morche-Los Llanos and a third for El Peñoncillo-Calaceite at a future date.”
Twenty-five years on, Torrox had twice as many inhabitants and three times as many properties. “The population reaches 100,000 each summer and the N340 traffic jams get worse each year,” Fernandez pointed out.
Andalucian singer receives award
Credit: YouTube:pastorasoler
THE prestigious Victorian Anchovy Gala, a highlight of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), is set to take place on Thursday, January 23 in Madrid. This year’s event honours the Andalucian singer Pastora Soler, who is celebrating an impressive 30 years in her professional career. Throughout her journey, she has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and emotional performances. The mayor of Rincon de la Victoria, Francisco Salado, expressed his enthusiasm stating, “Pastora Soler embodies everything that this distinguished award represents.
“Her frequent visits to the area and her family ties to La Cala del Moral make her a beloved figure in our community. Undeniably, she is a fantastic ambassador for our region, and it is for all these reasons that she is completely deserving of this accolade.”
In a heartfelt statement, Pastora Soler expressed her gratitude upon receiving this honour.
EL MORCHE: Logical location for second A-7 access.
Pastora Soler awarded Silver Anchovy.
Photo credit: malaga.es
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Feeling heard can help you live longer
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IN conjunction with the San Antonio celebrations across Spain, Velez-Malaga Town Hall have announced a new museum experience that permits pets to enter with their owners.
The event will take place on Saturday, January 18 at multiple museums throughout the town. The councillor for Culture and Historical Heritage, Alicia Ramírez has remarked upon the union of “art and love for animals,” something which the event is trying to emphasise. She has also said that she hopes many people will take advantage of the day “all those who want to come accompanied by their pets. Dogs, cats... we want owners and their pets to be able to take a tour of our art rooms.”
The pet friendly museums will allow residents to take their pets inside. Those are the Francisco Hernández Contemporary Art Centre (CAC), the City Museum of Velez-Malaga (MVVEL) and the Museum
AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST
Pets welcome at museum event
of Holy Week and Sala Cervantes.
There are multiple activities happening during the day including a theatrical reading of the novel The Dialogue of the Dogs by Miguel Cervantes in the courtyard of the MVVEL at
12pm. Cervantes will give a theatrical tour of Cervantes House in the centre of the town and the Teatro del Carmen will perform the play Donkey at 8.00pm, renowned actor Carlos Hipólito is part of the performance.
San Sebastian and San Antonio: A dual celebration
FRIGILIANA will celebrate San Sebastian, their town’s patron saint, and San Antonio, the patron saint of pets, in the same weekend.
Friday, January 17 at 6pm pets will be blessed by the priest of the San Antonio de Padua Church, visitors can witness people taking their pets of all different shapes and sizes to be blessed at the church, with the intention of protecting them from harm.
Saturday, January 18 Frigiliana’s San Sebastian procession begins. During the parade, which starts at 5pm, their saint will be moved from its chapel near the cemetery to San Antonio church. During saints processions it is normal for locals to carry the heavy and ornately decorated statue upon their shoulders.
Post parade, there is live music at Andalucia Park, at 8.30pm a performance by Alalba, then from 9.30pm music from El Callejón and finally at 1am there will be a concert from Olivetti Versiones.
Sunday, January 19 from 4pm, the fun continues in Andalucia Park with multiple dance shows, a magic show and more live music continuing late into the night.
Monday, January 20 evening from 6.30pm
there is a mass held in honour of San Sebastian and then from 7.30pm another procession of the patron saint, this time followed by a brass band and fireworks.
La Bottega
LA BOTTEGA, a family-run restaurant in Nerja, has been delighting guests with its exceptional cuisine since 2017. Owners Enzo and Lucia bring their passion for authentic flavours from Spain and Italy to every dish, using nothing but the freshest ingredients.
The pasta is a true highlight - the Tagliatelle al Tartufo is a must-try for truffle lovers, while seafood enthusiasts will enjoy the Linguine alla Marinara. With gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, La Bottega ensures that everyone feels welcome and is catered for.
To elevate your dining experience, La Bottega offers an impressive wine selection. Their cellar features over 100 labels from different ‘bodegas’ around the world, with a special emphasis on Spanish and Italian varieties, ensuring there’s a perfect pairing for every dish. They describe themselves as “passionate about drinks,” and are also well known for their selection of gin and tonics.
Recently La Bottega expanded, introducing a new bar and lounge area. This new addition provides the perfect spot to sip a glass of wine while waiting for a table, or to enjoy a cocktail after dinner. Whether you’re a Nerja local or just passing through, La Bottega offers a friendly atmosphere, delicious food and an exceptional wine selection, making it an unforgettable dining destination. From the first bite to the final sip, this spot is not to be missed!
THE San Franciso market will play host to over 80 activities on Saturday January 18 and Sunday January 20 celebrating geek culture.
The Velez-Malaga Town Hall have organised the fourth instalment of Vélez Go, a manga, video games and alternative culture fair. This time they have extended the fair to cover two days.
Lourdes Piña, the local councillor for Youth, has said that “Attendees will be able to enjoy 80 activities related to the world of manga and geek culture.”
There will be a gamer area with over 20 exhibitors, live tournaments, a play room and a Kpop Dance show and contest among many other activities.
In the ‘gamer’ area, a new addition for 2025, Piña has said there will be 14 stalls of new generation video consoles, six classic arcade stalls for nostalgia and three virtual reality stalls. The games are free to play with 12 different tournaments set up for those games in high demand.
The fair won’t just centre on video games - there will also be board games and adventure activities like soft archery, nerf tournaments, soft axe throwing, Tic-TacToe, Jenga and much more. On top of all this, younger family members can join in with Hamma and badge making workshops. The weekend is set to be one of constant fun.
Photo Credit: Velez Malaga Town Hall.
Photo Credit: Frigiliana Ayuntamiento
Do you like Elon Musk? Your
VOICE
ELON MUSK, the entrepreneur and innovator behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, has become one of the most polarising figures of our time. With a jaw-dropping net worth of $426 billion, he’s currently the richest person in the world. To some, he’s a visionary, pushing the boundaries of technology and space exploration. To others, his outspoken nature, unconventional leadership, and controversial tweets spark strong opinions and heated debates.
Whether you admire his genius and disruption or have doubts about his methods, one thing is clear: Elon Musk certainly knows how to make waves. But the real question is - do you like him?
A number of responses were strongly negative. Gordy O’Keeffe labelled him “a freak,” while Sheila Hounslow cautioned others to “watch him carefully,” calling Musk “egotistical and power-hungry.” Dewi Williams also expressed disdain, referring to Musk as a “climate-denying liar and a racist.” Dean Bromley is firmly opposed to liking Musk, bluntly commenting, “there’s a mistake here. You’ve included the word ‘Yes’ in the poll.”
Angela Edgley acknowledged Musk’s intelligence and success, as “he’s a clever self-made man and extremely rich,” but questioned his use of power, remarking that “ A
better man would use his fortune to quietly help the country. He probably has enough money to build half a dozen hospitals. Instead, he’s made himself quite dangerous.”
On a more positive note, Barry Jeffrey defended Musk, answering “Yes,” and adding that it’s “good to see a right leaning billionaire who is fighting for free speech - compared to the other billionaires [...] who don’t want free speech and pay to have election interfering and a liberal left narrative.” Delia French agrees, commenting “he is the only rich person who actually cares about others, he speaks the truth.”
Valeria Lynch comments “You mean Prime Minister Musk from the USA? Oh. Hell. No!” echoing sentiments online that Musk’s influence over Trump has led some calling him the “real” president of the United States.
Susana Maria Clark Parnell takes a surprisingly neutral stance, saying that she prefers not to judge because she doesn’t actually know him.
In conclusion, the responses to our poll were deeply divided, with readers either fully endorsing Musk or vehemently opposing him, although there was a slightly higher number of comments expressing disapproval. Whether you love him or hate him, it’s clear that Elon Musk is a figure who elicits strong emotions and gets people talking.
Elon Musk - Genius or madman?
FRANCE DENMARK
Green and blue
DENMARK is trying out flashing green lights that registered volunteers will be able to use in emergencies, in addition to the blue lights already used by first responders. Using the new green light will not be obligatory and, unlike the official services, drivers must observe the highway code at all times.
Fashion thieves
A UKRAINIAN (41) and a Moldovan of 20 were handed 10-month prison terms and face deportation after admitting they stole clothes worth 450,000 kroner (€60,316) from H&M stores. Police who tracked the two men down following a theft in August believe they sent part of their shoplifted haul to Germany.
PORTUGAL
Heavy-handed
A FATHER and his son should receive €20,000 state compensation after the child, then seven, was returned to his mother in France in 2018, Europe’s Human Rights Court (ECHR) ruled. Although the father filed a complaint against her in 2017, Portugal’s authorities ignored evidence of mistreatment, the ECHR said.
No remedy
AN open letter from 600 experts and former political leaders has condemned the government’s modification of land management legislation to allow building on rural land not classified for development. The move would do nothing to solve housing problems and could also damage the environment they said.
EURO PRESS
BELGIUM
Brussels icon
A RECORD 844,427 people visited the Atomium in Brussels last year, just above 2023’s 840,325 which also set a record. A quarter of those visiting the landmark that was built for the Brussels World Fair were Belgian although as well as an increase in European tourists, those from China rose by 250 per cent.
IRELAND FINLAND
Empty nests
IRELAND had 2,377 properties that were in line for the vacant homes tax last year, a reduction of 4,206 on 2023. The tax is five times higher than the Local Property Tax and is payable on homes that were occupied for less than 30 days over a 12-month period and will bring in €1.6 million for the Revenue Commissioners.
Home again
TWO 14-year-old girls, Caoimhe Barry and Khloe Murphy, reported missing from their Limerick homes by worried family member on January 7 had both been located by the following day. Both were safe and well but although police thanked the public for their cooperation, no further details were revealed.
ITALY GERMANY
Dog fight
A MAN of 72 who allegedly stabbed a dog owner in the neck and abdomen owing to the incessant barking of her dog, was arrested in Turin and charged with attempted murder. He and the woman, who was admitted to the local hospital’s intensive care unit, had clashed in the past over the dog, investigators found.
ITA sale
THE purchase of the bankrupt state-owned airline ITA, the former Alitalia, by Germany’s flag-carrier Lufthansa was very near completion, according to union sources quoted by the DPA news agency. To date, there has been no confirmation from Germany or the Italian regarding the €325 million transaction.
Lidl goes big
SCHWARZ GROUP, owner of the Lidl supermarket chain, has plans for a new 13-hectare data centre occupying six buildings in Lubbenau, 90 kilometres south of Berlin. The first section of the centre, which will handle the retailer’s retail operations and cloud services, could begin operations by late 2027.
Future fears
AHEAD of the February 23 federal election, a YouGov poll found that 39 per cent of voters were uneasy about Germany’s political situation, while 15 per cent said they felt “frustrated” with the country’s leading politicians. Only 7 per cent were optimistic about the future, while another 7 per cent were anxious.
Tone deaf
THE Star of Africa, a popular boardgame, could disappear from Turku nursery schools, after a teacher complained about its colonial-era stereotypes of Africans. Deputy mayor Piia Elo said the game was “problematic” and did not align with the worldview that Turku wanted for early childhood education.
Song contest
NATIONAL broadcaster YLE announced the names of the seven artistes and their songs that will compete in the UMK 2025 concert on February 7 to choose Finland’s song for this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Prior to the final, YLE will feature a singer each day to familiarise the public with the songs.
NETHERLANDS
Bare truth
A PROTESTANT high school wrongly dismissed a teacher who posted naked photos of himself online, ruled The Hague judges, who awarded him €10,000 compensation but did not order his reinstatement. The teacher’s photos were not pornographic, the court said, and the school had encroached his right to self-expression.
Post early
THE national postal service provided by privatised PostNL will begin emptying 75 per cent of letter boxes earlier in the day instead of after 5pm. It expects to save millions of euros, loss-making PostNL said, as daytime collections were more efficient and drivers picking up mail would also be able to deliver packages.
Beauty pays
CLARINS, the multinational skincare and cosmetics company recently opened a new factory in Troyes, while Chanel, Hermes and Puig are also building more facilities. The global beauty market is now worth €265 billion and exports have doubled in 10 years, the French Federation of Beauty Companies said.
Here to stay
ABOU SANGARE, who won a 2024 Cannes Film Festival award for portraying a migrant in France, has secured a one-year visa after three unsuccessful attempts. Abou will work as a mechanic, not an actor, he told Liberation newspaper: “I’m a mechanic, that’s my trade, and I can’t wait to start working in the garage.”
SWEDEN
Ill effects
THE government is working on plans to introduce the biggest increases in patients’ co-payments for prescriptions in more than 10 years. Opposition politicians and patient-protection associations predicted that would have a particularly adverse and unfair effect on the chronically-ill and those on low incomes.
In the soup
SWEDEN’S Food Safety Agency agreed with its counterpart in Belgium that eating pine needles from Christmas trees treated with insecticides and pesticides that were not authorised for edible crops was dangerous. In contrast, the custom of using needles from young saplings was safe in limited quantities, the Agency said.
NORWAY
No grumbles
LAST July, the Consumer Authority began charging an initial fee of 255 kroner ((€21.68) to lodge a complaint about a service or product and further 1,277 kroner (€108.51) to go ahead with it. Complaints immediately began to fall with a 55 per cent difference between 2023 and 2024, the watchdog said.
Warm and wet
NORWAY’S Meteorological Institute classed 2024 as the third-hottest and third-wettest since records were first kept in 1901. Temperatures in regions inside the Arctic Circle rose between 1.3 and 1.5 degrees owing to the “Arctic amplification” where sea ice becomes thinner and more susceptible to melting.
Photo
ATOMIUM: Built for 1958 Brussels World Fair.
Sven’s €2.2 million house for sale UK nightclubs forced to close in 2025
LUXURY home buyers in Sweden are set to rejoice as late sporting icon Sven-Goran Eriksson’s idyllic lakeside home has been put back on the market.
The premium house, known as Bjorkefors Manor, sits on lake Fryken in Varmland, some four hours from the hustle and bustle lifestyle of Stockholm, the Swedish capital. For any prospective buyer, they can expect to pay around 25 million Swedish krona for the property, or €2.17 million.
The house is part of a six-acre complex which is complete with a steamboat dock, and a serene private beach.
There are a variety of detached buildings on the grounds, including a guest house on the lake, a pool house, and a villa.
The house was built in the late 1800s and has four bedrooms, six bathrooms, and over 9,000 square feet of living space.
The pristine property boasts three floors, equipped with gorgeous decor, fit for a high-profile individual seeking a taste of the quiet life.
Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty has put the property up for sale after the football legend died from pancreatic cancer last year, aged 76.
Sven-Goran Eriksson won 18 major trophies at the helm of top clubs around Europe, including Benfica, Roma, Sampdoria, and Lazio, where his efforts in Italy’s Serie A granted him coach of the year in 2000. He managed England from 2001 to 2006, becoming the country’s first ever foreign boss.
RECENTLY enforced budget cuts in various areas, as well as an increase in employers’ National Insurance payments, up to 15 per cent, has seen a new pandemic, as Britain struggles to keep afloat amidst its cost of living crisis. Nightclubs have again come under serious threat to stay in business, and they are not receiving the aid they once were by the government, as reduced business rates relief is just one of many factors deterring their future. Many economic and practical challenges of late such as these have forced clubs to promote new kinds of events, such as ‘sober raves’, to keep custo mers flying in and balance the books. But still, around 15 venues were forced to close, meaning there are around 835 venues open in the UK in 2025, compared to around 1,400 in 2019.
“The uncertainty heading into 2025 is more concerning than anything we saw during the pan-
UK nightclubs face an uncertain future.
demic,” chief executive of the Night-Time Industries Association (NTIA) warns in his damning verdict. “The additional financial burden from the planned tax increases in April could drive many more businesses to the brink of closure. Operators are working on the margins and many have exhausted all
possible avenues to cut costs.”
The chief executive agreed with the government’s plans that the long-term strategy rhetoric is important but insisted “there must be a recognition and consideration for the immediate challenges which are substantial as we risk further closures and job losses.”
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Credit note
CREDIT information provider
ClearScore, which avoided takeover by Experian in 2018, has bought Manchester-based Aro Finance, which provides a platform where Argos and Asda offer credit products directly to customers. This is ClearScore’s second purchase, following its 2022 acquisition of Money Dashboard.
Big difference
BANK and insurance company employees in Madrid earn around €63,895 a year, compared with €23,000 for an average salaried worker, latest figures from Spain’s Agencia Tributaria tax authority showed. Worst paid were agricultural and fishing sector employees in Andalucia, earning an annual €7,703.
Not essential
QUINTESSENTIALLY, owned by Queen Camilla’s nephew Sir Ben Elliott, reported £2.1 million (€2.5 million) losses for the year ending April 2024. Despite cutting jobs and more time to repay £15 million (€18 million) in loans, the company offering personal assistance to the super-rich was also unable to pay a dividend.
Chery ripe
CHINESE carmaker Chery, the world’s fifth-largest manufacturer which is now making Omoda and Jaecoo models in Nissan’s old Barcelona plant, reported a 38 per cent increase in its 2024 sales. The company built more than 2.6 million units last year, with global revenues of $65.5 billion (€63.6 billion).
Next thing
FASHION chain Next warned it would have to raise its prices to compensate for the “unusually” high increase in salaries. It expected its wages bill to have grown by £67 million (€80.3 million) by January 2026 owing to changes introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the October Budget, the retailer said.
STAT OF WEEK
€13 billion
Splashing cash
CASH is thriving, with wi thdrawals increasing for the third consecutive year since the pandemic, Nationwide revealed.
People opted for cash to manage their money while the cost of living remained high, the UK’s largest building society said, with 32.8 million cash withdrawals from 1,260 ATMs at its 605 branches up 10 per cent on 2023.
An average amount of £112 (€135.09) was taken out on each occasion and the busiest time was the week beginning December 16 with £97.9 million (€ 117.8 million) in withdrawals increasing, a 1.8 per cent increase on 2023.
“This was the highest amount dispensed in one week since pre-Covid,” Nationwide said. “The week leading up to Black Friday saw £85.3 million withdrawn, a 12 per cent year-on-year increase and the second-highest
CARLOS CUESTA: Finance minister predicted
weekly dispense since pre-Covid.”
Nationwide cash withdrawals had steadily declined from their 2014 peak but this dip was most pronounced when the pandemic struck, falling more than 40 per
in toxic assets acquired by Sareb, Spain’s “bad bank”, which was created during the financial crisis of 2012, will be sold off during 2025.
cent from 2019’s 44.5 million withdrawals to 26.4 million by 2020. Nationwide pointed out that bank branch closures were also responsible for more ATM usage as essential free services disappeared from high streets.
This led to a 16 per cent increase in withdrawals by non-Nationwide customers and a 4 per cent increase from the building society’s own customers looking to access cash.
More multi-use ATMs also meant 43 per cent of transactions were for services ranging from printing mini-statements or paying bills to changing PINs, and paying in cash.
Balancing the books
SPAIN will spend less in 2025 than it receives in taxes for the first time since 2007. Speaking on January 7, Economy minister Carlos Cuerpo said the country had again exceeded expectations in 2024, with an estimated gross domestic product (GDP) of between 3 and 3.4 per cent.
This implied that Spain contributed 40 per cent towards eurozone growth, he added.
Solid growth and public debt sustainability were the basis of the Treasury’s finance program-
Hero to zero Holiday boost
LAST Christmas was the best yet for Aldi, the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket chain.
The German-owned retailer reported sales of £1.6 billion (€1.9 billion) in the four weeks leading up to the holidays thanks to more new stores and the popularity of its Premium range of products.
Sales rose 3.4 per cent year-on-year, while December 23 was the busiest day it had ever known, with three million shoppers visiting its stores.
FOOD delivery firm Delivery Hero has lost 70 per cent of its value after taking over Spain’s Glovo three years ago.
Delivery Hero owns 99 per cent of Glovo following December 2021 and July 2022 acquisitions, but since then the Berlin-based company’s market value has plummeted by €16.6 million and it has lost €6 million.
Glovo is not entirely to blame for Delivery Hero’s woes, which include the mediocre float of its subsidiary, Talabat, on the Dubai stock exchange, which was also the Middle East’s biggest 2024 debut.
Nonetheless, Glovo has undoubtedly contributed to the Delivery Hero’s problems, losing €412 million in 2022 and an estimated €210 million in 2023.
me in 2025 when Spain returned to the fiscal rules suspended during the pandemic.
These stipulate the deficit should not exceed 3 per cent of a country’s GDP or 60 per cent of its debt, and Spain was committed to adhering to the regulations, Cuerpo said.
In fact, Spain should register its first primary surplus since 2007 last year, he predicted, meaning that income exceeded outgoings, once interest payments on the public debt were excluded.
Diesel dilemma
COURIER and light transport companies are alarmed at the prospect of a €0.11 per litre increase in the tax on diesel making it as expensive as petrol.
The association which represents the sector, UNO Logistica, has called on the Transport Ministry to allow these firms and self-employed van-drivers to use the rebated fuel already used by vehicles that transport merchandise or passengers.
“It’s hard to see why the tax-free professional gasoil that can be used by heavy transport isn’t contemplated for the light vehicles which are used by 30 per cent of courier firms,” UNO Logistica’s president Francisco Aranda said.
ANOTHER multinational has ordered staff to work from the office, not home.
Advertising giant WPP, which owns the Ogilvy and Wunderman Thompson agencies, announced that from April onwards employees would be expected to come into the office at least four times a week.
The new regime will also require them to work a minimum of two Fridays each month, employees were told in an email from WPP’s chief executive, Mark Read.
“I believe we do our best work when we’re together in person,” Read said.
SPANISH multinational Ferrovial has sold its Vertiports subsidiary, which builds infrastructure for vertical takeoff electric aircraft, to Atlantic Aviation. The Texas-based company operates a New York heliport and the acquisition coincides with the decision by Ferrovial’s Vertiports partner, Lilium, to launch bankruptcy proceedings in Germany after failing to obtain additional funds for future operations.
As a wholly-owned Atlantic Aviation subsidiary, Ferrovial Vertiports will now operate under the name VertiPorts by Atlantic with the same leadership team.
ANOTHER UK company will list in New York and not on London’s stock exchange, which had hoped to land the £3 billion (€3.6 billion) listing.
Lloyd’s of London underwriter Aspen Insurance submitted the required documents to the US Securities and Exchange Commission before Christmas and engaged Goldman Sachs, Jefferies and Citi to work on the float.
Sources quoted by the Telegraph maintained that Aspen’s American asset-manager owner Apollo “had concerns” regarding different accounting standards in the US and the UK.
BP 432,70 433,90 430,35 4,43M British American Tobacco 2.944,8 2.948,0 2.925,0 244,02K
3.306,0 3.312,0 3.276,0 50,61K
BUSINESS
EXTRA
More or less ANGED, the association representing Spain’s largest retailers including the Corte Ingles, Carrefour and Ikea, said members paid €5.3 billion in taxes last year. This was 38.5 per cent more than in pre-pandemic 2019 although sales grew by only 16 per cent, Anged added.
Read about it
ELLIOTT ADVISORS, American private equity owner of the Waterstones bookshop chain since 2018, are considering a possible float in London or New York. A combined listing would be “logical”, Waterstones’ managing director James Daunt told the Financial Times.
Made-to-measure Rollers
ROLLS-ROYCE plans to invest more than £300 million (€359.8 million) on extending its Goodwood plant. The Goodwood expansion will focus on Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke services and Coachbuild programme, invitation-only resources enabling clients to create an entirely original car.
The company explained that this was the next step in its commitment to providing value for clients by handcrafting “complex, personal, and valuable luxury vehicles.”
Rolls-Royce revealed that
Outlook sunny
SPANISH company Grenergy has secured $324 million (€314.5 million) funding for the fourth of the seven phases in its Oasis de Atacama project.
This latest installation of solar panels and battery storage in Chile’s Atacama Desert will generate 269 megawatts of solar power and 1.1 gigawatts per hour of storage.
Once completed, the entire complex
will eventually produce two gigawatts of solar power with 11 gigawatts per hour of storage, Grenergy said.
The project originally envisaged a one-gigawatt solar power installation and a storage capacity of 4.1 gigawatt per hour but Grenergy recently decided on a dramatic increase, even though the existing phases already make Oasis de Atacama project one of the world’s biggest.
the Middle East was its largest Bespoke region by average spending per vehicle, closely followed by North America and Europe, with clients prepared to spend upwards of £500 million (€599.4 million) on customising vehicles.
Owned by German firm BMW since 2003, Rolls-Royce sold 5,712 cars in 2023, 5 per cent fewer than in 2022. Nevertheless, this was the company’s third-highest annual total and in line with the marque’s expectations, given the changeover to new models.
Compared with 2003, when the Goodwood plant’s staff of 300 produced one car a day, it now has more than 2,500 employees, producing a daily 28.
Rolls-Royce also provides another 7,500 jobs in its supply chain, prompting a 2023 London School of Economics study to conclude that the company contributed approximately £500 million each year to the UK economy.
Namesakes
ITALIAN coffee company Zicaffe wants Brussels to prevent Zara-owner Inditex from using the name Zacaffe for its cafés, the first of which opened in a Zara Man store in Madrid’s Calle Hermosilla in November. Zicaffee and Zacaffee are too similar, argued the Sicily-based coffee company, asking the EU’s Intellectual Property Office to block Inditex from using the name.
No worries
THOMAS HEATHERWICK, whose Heatherwick Studio has designed striking projects in London that include the Google skyscraper, has paid himself a £1.4 million (€1.67 million) dividend. Profits for the year ending April 2024 fell from the previous year’s £15.2 million (€18.1 million) to £3.8 million (€4.5 million) although this was “fully expected”, the firm said.
BESPOKE ROLLS-ROYCE: Goodwood plant extended to produce more customised vehicles.
Photo credit: rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Any excuse will do
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
I DO find that ageing in the world of entertainment can often be a bit weird. Having been in it for most of my days, I do sometimes find myself coming across old publicity photos or watching video clips from the early career when I was young and fancy free; catching a glimpse of the same old geezer in the mirror many years later can often be somewhat disconcerting!
Tom Jones is one example who also comes to mind. I have known Tom for many years. I recall when, as a very young lad, he first came to London and was receiving 10 bob a week from his then manager Gordon Mills.
Gordon had been a friend of mine for quite a while and can still recollect him coming back from Pontypridd and during one of our Poker schools going on about this young singer he had discovered back in Wales. When he was told to stop boring us all and deal the cards, he added that we sim-
ply had to wait and ‘watch this boy’ move. How right he was.
Many years later, after Las Vegas audiences had seen ‘this boy move’ on a pretty regular basis, Gordon was unfortunately still gambling. While Tom was raising the money in the main room, Gordon was busy losing it in the casino. It really didn’t help, in fact occasionally Tom was often working merely to repay Gordons’s losses.
In the end it caused the breakdown in their relationship and Tom’s son took over as his manager. Gordon however was a true and highly talented character who also managed my success in the early years.
One of his efforts was to erect a zoo in the grounds of his luxurious Weybridge abode. Mainly housing gorillas and tigers, he also had a chimp who lived next door to Ollie, the one-eyed gorilla he had rescued as a youngster from a somewhat unsavoury travelling circus. Louie, the chimp, was intrigued by human belly buttons.
One day, while I was visiting Louie, his arm shot between the bars and grabbed tightly hold of the
vest I was wearing under my open shirt. After poking the ol’ boy’s belly button for a bit he then flatly refused to release it.
Finally, after much tugging and stretching the vest ripped apart and came completely away in his hairy grip. Naturally, with ‘Leapy’s law’ now in fine fettle, the incident was not yet over. As he stood waving it triumphantly between the bars a great hairy arm shot out from Ollie his next-door neighbour, who then grabbed it and retreated to run triumphantly around his own dwelling, waving above his head like some captured enemy flag. He then stood sombrely in the corner and tearing it into pieces proceeded to eat the whole thing.
Have any of you men out there tried to explain to the wife when she is suspicious of your missing undergarment that ‘a gorilla ate it’? To be quite honest, any unlikely excuse of that magnitude simply has to be true. Remember it next time boys, alright?
Keep the Faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Spanish ‘Disney castle’
AN amazing UNESCO World Heritage site secretly situated deep in the foothills of Spain’s central mountainous region is getting a full-scale €6.5 million revamp and reopening to the public.
The historic monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is undergoing a €6.5 million overhaul that promises to unlock secrets hidden for centuries.
Built under the watchful eye of Philip II, the grand complex once symbolised Spain’s imperial might. Now, almost 40 years after joining the UNESCO list, it’s being restored to its former glory - and more.
Philip II of Spain, who incidentally married England’s Mary I, had an audacious dream: to build a monastery in the middle of nowhere.
The vision took 21 gruelling years, two master architects - Juan Bautista de Toledo (a protégé of Michelangelo) and Juan de Herrera (a war-hardened visionary) - and immeasurable dedication to bring El Escorial to life. The result? A sprawling 33,000-square-metre masterpiece that still leaves visitors in awe.
The two-year restoration, part-funded by the EU, aims to reintroduce visitors to El Escorial’s true splendour. For the first time, the ‘Patio of Kings’ - the grand monastic courtyard - and once-private royal art collections will be opened to the public.
INTERVIEW
Speaking EuropeanAlynne Rousseeuw - Belgium
Alynne, from Belgium, has lived in Spain for eight years. Many of the people we’ve interviewed came here looking for their happily ever after, some, like Alynne, brought it with them.
ALYNNE, from Belgium, has lived in Spain for eight years. Many of the peo ple we’ve interviewed came here looking for their happily ever after, some, like Alynne, brought it with them. She said “my boyfriend had a bar in Belgium whilst I was studying social work, he sold it and said to me ‘I want to move to Spain’.”
Alynne, then 22, had never been to Spain before. Ahead of the move they visited twice. “I believe that as people we learn more by having an adventure than staying in the same area for the rest of our lives.” They ended up at Lomas de Cabo Roig. She has found building a community easy: “There
are loads of Belgian people here, at first, I built it up through my bar work. I was working mostly in my own language so it was easier.
“You could say that restaurants and bars are in our blood. I grew up in restaurants. After a year, I opened my own here.” Alynne’s bar - Bar Maschi has been a roaring success, known for its lively entertainment and cosy feel. Like lots of expatriates Alynne loves the weather here but misses family. “The hard thing with living here is leaving my family in Belgium, some days I miss them but this is where my heart and home is.”
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
The stunning water pond at Frailes Garden.
Credit: Shutterstock, Vivvi Smak
Alynne loves the weather.
Photo Credit: Alynne Rousseeuw
FAMOUS NO-SHOWS
UNEXPECTEDLY coming across a book signing in Madrid some years ago by the director/ screenwriter Pedro Almodóvar, I thought I’d chance my luck again last summer at the Madrid Book Fair. But no such luck this time!
The Almodóvar event was very well attended, this Book Fair less so. Book signings I’ve done myself for local book and arts clubs have all been sold out (phew!) but this isn’t always the case. Signings by literary legends and celebrities can often be fraught affairs ending in tears with noshows.
Kenneth Williams (remember him?) asked the name of the sole purchaser of his books and duly wrote ‘Dear Emma Chiswick’ to which she responded, “Oi, whatcha doin’?” He replied, “You told me your name is Emma Chiswick and I’m writing your name in the book for you.” “No!” she angrily retorted. “I said ‘ow much is it?’”
Years ago, a pal lived near a large Barnes & Noble bookstore
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
Say goodbye to the Good Old Days of Facebook
Fact-checking is gone for good - Here’s how to navigate the New Era of Misinformation
in New York where her partner liked to browse. One day he was asked by an author if he wanted to buy his book and have it signed with a personal message.
The ‘author’, sitting completely alone, was Donald Trump and the book ‘The Art of the Deal’. It was actually ghostwritten, which left her partner unimpressed and saying “No!” and Trump looking extremely angry. Just look who’s smiling NOW...!
Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Samaritans in Spain
FOLLOWING an extremely successful trial period at the end of last year, Samaritans in Spain will be making a permanent change to their service hours. With immediate effect, callers can get in contact with one of their trained listeners between the hours of 10.00am and midnight every day of the year.
Prior to this, the service finished at 10.00pm, and it is only with the commitment and dedication of their team of listeners that Samaritans in Spain has been able to make this significant change. As their president, Donna Williams said, “We have long held the desire to extend our hours as we understand that dark feelings often surface at night, so this is a huge step for our organisation, and
we hope it enables us to support even more people than we do currently .”
Samaritans in Spain was established in July 2008 and is a member of Befrienders Worldwide, an organisation made up of listening service providers across the globe. It is available to all English speakers, irrespective of nationality, who reside in mainland Spain and the Islands.
Their service is offered via FREEPHONE 900 525 100, and they are there for when people need to express their feelings in order to protect their well-being, feel empowered and take back some control. Further information can be found by visiting www. samaritansinspain.com.
TO COAST
META - the mastermind behind Facebook, Instagram, and Threadshas made a game-changing move: it’s bidding farewell to its fact-checking program. That’s right, the social media giant has essentially said, “Post what you want; we’re not looking!”
This decision might just unleash a tidal wave of misinformation, turning social media into an even wilder battleground for truth and lies.
Are we trading a stream of curated content for a flood of unchecked chaos? Honestly, it’s like swapping out a squeaky faucet for a firehoseexcept this one sprays fake news.
Meta’s decision signals a dramatic shift in how information is handled on its platforms. Fact-checking?
Consider it a relic of the past. It’s like a lifeguard abandoning the pool and hoping everyone just swims safely. Spoiler: someone’s going to end up in the deep end, and it’s not looking good.
How can we navigate this new reality?
The answer lies in arming ourselves with critical thinking and taking the reins of fact-checking. While the sceptics and information veterans among us might dodge misinformation with a mix of research and a healthy dose of side-eye, others might gobble up fake headlines faster than they can say, “Did you hear…?”
This makes it crucial to teach future generations to think critically and demand credible information. Without these skills, misinformation will rule the day - and let’s be honest, it’s already halfway there.
Ultimately, it’s up to us to push
back, question, and verify everything we consume online. The internet may be a playground for ideas, but without scrutiny, it’s easy to mistake junk for gems.
Your misinformation survival kit
Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this fight. Here are some tools to help you fact-check like a pro:
• Hoaxy: Tracks how misinformation spreads and links between articles and tweets.
• NewsGuard: Rates the credibility of news sites with a handy browser extension.
• Credder: Offers article ratings and reviews to help you separate fact from fiction.
• Google Reverse Image Search: Great for spotting edited or misused images.
• InVID & WeVerify: Analyses videos and images for authenticity with metadata and context.
And don’t sleep on traditional media. Sure, newspapers, TV news, and radio aren’t perfect, but at least there’s accountability. Step away from your screen occasionally and reconnect with real journalism - it’s like giving your brain a much-needed detox.
I’m excited - and maybe a bit terrified - to see how these changes unfold. I’m holding out hope that the EU regulatory systems will step in and set some boundaries. With Meta dropping the fact-checking ball, it’s time for governments to ensure the truth doesn’t become an endangered species.
Let’s fight to keep honesty alive in this digital jungle. It’s not just about surviving - it’s about thriving in a world where the truth still matters. Let’s make sure it does.
Fact-Check, please don’t go! I already miss you...
Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Samaritans in Spain extend their hours to midnight.
Credit: Samaritans in Spain
LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA FROM COAST
Costa del Sol Gere & Banderas in Malaga
RICHARD GERE took a trip and paid a visit to his pal Antonio Banderas in Malaga on Thursday, January 9, to enjoy a sitting of his musical, Gypsy.
The star of Pretty Woman, The Cotton Club, and American Gigolo did not hesitate in taking up the offer of a seat at the Soho Theatre to see one of the last showings the Gypsy company gave in Malaga before leaving for Madrid.
Antonio Banderas, the musical’s director, welcomed the actor to the theatre at the end of the performance. Gere praised the talent of Gypsy’s cast and crew. He also congratulated Marta Ribera for her great performance and shared a few words with the cast, “although I don’t understand everything in Spanish, I loved the show,” the Hollywood star said.
Gypsy is enjoying its peak of popularity, ending in Malaga with all tickets sold out, and it won’t be until February 7 when the company returns to the boards at the Apolo Theatre in Madrid.
Costa Blanca North Darts champ in Albir!
IT is not every day that a World Darts Champion walks into your bar, so imagine the surprise of the patrons of Bar Players sports bar in Albir when newly crowned Luke Littler suddenly appeared on January 8.
With his next competition, the Bahrain Masters starting next week, Littler decided to take his family on a short break to Spain after his epic win, and of course, he spent some time in the wonderful Costa Blanca North. In fact, he couldn’t resist taking to Instagram to post a short video that he took depicting the blue sky and sea as he strolled along Albir beach.
While there was a darts tournament taking place at the bar, Littler deferred to his brother Leon to get involved and instead relaxed and enjoyed some time with his family and friends. Unfortunately for Leon, he didn’t make it to the final but no doubt he had a great time all the same.
Mallorca
Madrid Fusió
THE Consell de Mallorca is once again taking a stand at the Madrid Fusió gastronomic fair being held between January 27 and 29.
The Mallorca stand will be twice the size of previous years in order to allow a number of its respected chefs to host cooking workshops as well as allow space for a wide range of Mallorca’s produce to be displayed.
Senior members of the Council as well as representatives of the Tourism Department will head the Mallorcan delegation and will be accompanied by chefs (some holding Michelin stars) from 12 top restaurants as well as six mixologists from popular bars throughout the island.
Prior to the fair, the Consell de Mallorca organised a special event on Monday January 13, when all of those due to take part met up to discuss their plans to promote the gastronomy of Mallorca with a view to encouraging sales of produce as well as enticing ‘foodies’ to the island.
Costa Blanca South Sky’s the limit
AENA is moving forward with plans to expand Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport and Valencia Airport to address the growing demand for air travel.
At Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, the project will centre on enlarging the current terminal. This will involve extending the boarding dock to incorporate the area of the old Terminal 1 and the existing General Aviation Terminal.
The new dock will enable the airport to handle more non-Schengen flights efficiently.
Additional gates will also be built for non-Schengen traffic, ensuring improved service for passengers and airlines.
The terminal will be reconfigured to provide more space for security screening. Advanced technology will be installed, including Automated Tray Return Systems, which speed up the security process by automatically returning trays used for hand luggage checks.
Almeria Miles for smiles
ON Sunday, January 12, Fines and Pulpí welcomed participants for two impactful charity events. The Geode Race in Pulpí and the Solidarity Trail for Susana in Fines took place, drawing locals together for a day of sports and giving back.
Organised with the support of the Almería Provincial Council, town halls, and various sports clubs, the events not only promoted physical activity but also raised funds for important causes. José Antonio García, the Vice President and Sports Deputy, encouraged everyone to get involved, highlighting that the events benefited the local community. The Solidarity Trail for Susana, in particular, raised funds for nine-year-old Susana from Olula del Río, who is recovering from surgery to remove a brain tumour.
The Geode Race in Pulpí featured three race categories, with participants running through scenic routes that highlighted the town’s natural beauty, including the famous Giant Geode. The event celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025.
Costa Calida
Suspicious suitcases
A SECURITY scare unfolded recently in Cartagena when two abandoned suitcases were found. The National Police cordoned off the area, restricting access to nearby streets and evacuating shops, bars, and offices as a precaution. The suitcases were discovered around 4.00pm at the corner of Plaza de San Sebastián and Calle Intendencia, right under a security camera of the building, which houses the headquarters of the Spanish Navy’s Maritime Action Force. The area around the building was closed off for nearly three hours while police followed protocol. Bomb disposal experts were dispatched to investigate the suspicious items. They used a controlled detonation to safely examine the contents, which turned out to be electrical components like plugs and covers, likely forgotten by someone. Once it was confirmed there were no explosives and no threat, the security operation was called off, and the area was reopened.
TIP ‘Windows to Wellness’
WATCH for allergies in your pet. If your pet shows signs like itching, sneezing, watery eyes, skin rashes, or digestive issues, they may have an allergy. Consult a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
How to manage pet allergies
PET allergies are common, but with some thoughtful strategies, pet owners and those affected by allergies can live comfortably together. Here’s how to manage pet allergies effectively.
Create pet-free zones: Designate certain areas of your home, like bedrooms and living rooms, as pet-free zones. This helps minimise allergens in places where you spend a lot of time, particularly when sleeping.
Regular cleaning: Frequent cleaning is crucial. Vacuum your home
at least once or twice a week using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture pet dander. Wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and accessories regularly.
Groom your pet: Regular baths and grooming help reduce the amount of dander your pet sheds. Make sure to use pet-friendly shampoos to avoid skin irritation. Brushing your pet outside also helps prevent dander from accumulating indoors.
Consider air purifiers: Invest in a
HEPA air purifier to reduce airborne allergens in your home. These devices can help trap dander and other particles, making the air cleaner for allergy sufferers.
Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines or allergy medications can help manage symptoms. Consult with your doctor for personalised advice on the best treatment options. For severe allergies, immunotherapy or allergy shots can help build a tolerance over time, reducing reactions to pet dander.
Haggis needs care at home with resident cat-sitters
CARING for elderly pets can be a challenge, they often don’t like leaving their comfortable space, and for Haggis that’s the kitchen of her home. She no longer leaves the kitchen preferring to orchestrate all operations from her position on the counter near the door.
From her counter top she can greet all visitors to the house, she can oversee the actions of the younger cats and she can ask her cat-sitter for food or water, depending on her mood.
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ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL AND WELCOME BACK!
And so our Part 2 of our season kicks off……
AWFL Over 50s League
Boca Seniors Competa 1 v 7 Marbella Marbesula
This was certainly a game of two halves. In the first, a very even affair, both teams displayed good attacking intent whilst, at the same time, defending efficiently. A well-worked and splendidly-taken goal by Antonio Garbanzo saw Marbella take the lead before the break. The second half was a different matter altogether with the visitors almost completely dominating and scoring goals at regular intervals. Those scorers were Antonio Garbanzo with his second, Gabi (2), Carrasco, Miguel Arancha and Osorio. A penalty against Marbella for running offences was dispatched by Paul Kavanagh to put the hosts on the scoreboard but it was never going to be enough. The match opened Part 2 of the AWFL season in the best of spirits!
AWFL Over 50s League as it stands:
Malaga are unbeaten and maintain a decent lead over the chasing pack with only four points separating Marbella Marbesula, Real Calahonda, AC Benahavis, Internacionales Mollina and Canadon Old Boys. Boca Seniors Competa and Nerja United bring up the rear but no doubt will try their hardest to improve their positions before season’s end.
AWFL Over 60s League as it stands: AC Benahavis remain unbeaten and hold a strong lead over Real Calahonda, closely followed by Malaga with Nerja United and Sporting Benahavis endeavouring to catch up.
Plenty to play for……
There are also plenty of MAIO AWFL Cup games to go before we learn which teams will contest the finals, which are due to be played at Mollina on Saturday June 7. By this time, the winners of both AWFL Leagues should be known!
See you next week!
Ronaldo goes viral after heartwarming gesture
CRISTIANO RONALDO has once again made the headlines, but for all the right reasons as he showed his class and heart, hurrying security away who tried to intercept a little boy getting up close with the Portuguese football star, as he then signed his match shirt and ball.
Ronaldo was attending the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, where he picked up two awards - one for being the Best Middle Eastern Player of 2024, and another for being the Top Goalscorer of All Time. Ronaldo sat
in the crowd to watch the ceremony unfold as a starstruck young fan went to approach the football legend. Security sharply swooped in to try and block the boy from get-
Barca thrash Madrid
team at the ‘Clasico’ at King Abdullah Stadium in Saudi Arabia.
Madrid lost 5-2 to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday, January 12. That followed the 4-0 loss at home to Barcelona in the Spanish league in October.
Real Madrid was overwhelmed in defence as Hansi Flick’s squad provided them with unexpected tactical variants that left mouths awed. Barça dominated all corners of the pitch and showed off their powerful counterattack weapons, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Rodrygo scored for Madrid on the hour mark after Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was sent off early in the second half.
being the top-scoring team in Spain. In the cup match, Madrid’s defensive approach collapsed, with Valverde and Camavinga making significant physical efforts to help on the wings but leaving the centre open.
The Barcelona attack focused on the sides, particularly Raphinha, who scored two. Madrid’s back line was like a sieve and unsynchronised, leading to Lewandowski’s equaliser goal by Yamal.
Barça demonstrated their effectiveness in attack, swooping on Courtois’ goal and finishing all plays with ease. The difference in shot accuracy was abysmal, with Real Madrid taking 19 shots but just scoring two, while Barça made 14 shots at goal, finishing with five.
No Finnish Formula One drivers
ting too close to Ronaldo, but the star, who will turn 40 on February 5, then told the guards to move away.
Much to the excited child’s surprise, Ronaldo then moved in to sign his football and shirt, transforming the items into memorabilia of the star which will make for a moment the lad will never forget. Amidst his excitement, the boy forgot his pen and left it with Ronaldo, before hurrying back to pick it up from the Portuguese international, with Ronaldo left smiling to himself and the boy’s adoring family happily watching on.
FOR decades, Finnish drivers left a significant mark on the motorsport of Formula One (F1). With three world champions - Keke Rosberg, Mika Häkkinen, and Kimi Räikkönen - and a reputation for excelling under pressure, Finland earned the saying, “If you want to win, hire a Finn.”
However, 2025 marks the first F1 season since 1988 without a Finnish driver on the grid.
Despite its small population of 5.6 million, Finland has produced nine F1 drivers, including five race winners and seven podium finishers. The country’s challenging weather and slippery roads are often credited for honing its drivers’ skills.
The absence of Finnish F1 drivers can be attributed to financial barriers and a lack of standout talent in re-
cent years. Former Grand Prix winner, Heikki Kovalainen, pointed out that even junior programmes run by major teams like Ferrari and Mercedes now require drivers to bring substantial sponsorships. “Finland is not a big market, especially nowadays when the economy is struggling,” he explained to
Motorsport. Another factor is performance. Kovalainen stressed that while finances are crucial, drivers must also demonstrate exceptional skill. “You really have to do something outstanding... Maybe that’s also something that’s been missing with the guys who try to build a Formula One career.”
