Mallorca Olive Press Newspaper – Issue 3 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

Fancy owning home stayed in1by May 25th - Junethis 8th 2017 a host of celebrities, including Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and P Michelle Pfeiffer?

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Amazing response to the ‘Help Save Serena’ blood donation campaign APPEAL

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The

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factor Crunch time Our voting guide for UK election

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Mallorca hoteliers demand serious punishment over fake insurance claims as they reach ‘at least’ €50 million By Joe Duggan

Magical Miro We meet the iconic artist’s Grandson

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All aboard

With Obama, Tom and Bruce Springsteen

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MALLORCA hoteliers are demanding stiff punishment for holidaymakers, lawyers or touts involved in fake sickness insurance claims. They have insisted upon strong ‘penal sentences’ after confirming they are ‘suffering a criminal plot’, costing the industry millions each year. The president of the hotel association (FEHM) Inmaculada De Benito told the Olive Press the problem has cost the industry ‘at least’ €50 million in the past 18 months. It comes after she called a high level meeting with the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) in Madrid, on Monday. “We told ABTA that the Span-

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Waste of space

Don’t bother visiting Palma Cathedral, so says TripAdvisor

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Courageous

Captain’s amazing scrapes with drug barons and CIA

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Vol. 1 Issue 2

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May 11th - May 24th 2017

HELP SAVE SERENA! By Laurence Dollimore

TYPE ‘O NEGATIVE’ TO BEAT

‘maximum support’ by working closely with tour operators to identify illegal claims. She added: “We want concrete solutions to minimize claims based on a criminal plot that takes advantage of the cover British law gives customers. “It’s clear hoteliers can’t continue suffering the cost of these false claims.” She insisted laws in the UK needed to be changed regarding tourists’ gastric complaints. FEHM represents some 900

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ROPERTY sales in at their highest for Mallorca are An incredible 1,355a decade. registered in March,sales were which is an increase of 39.4% The second highest over 2016. British buyers makeincrease in Spain, foreign sales, while up 26% of the Germans account for 40%. Spain overall had a fantastic year on year increase of 26.9%, recording massive 40,461 sales in March, a the

‘some prices have leapt

by 25% in a year’ - homebuilder

highest number since February 2011. Malaga saw an increase of 37% with

e se 3 ge pa Mallorca market booming with 1,355 homes March, while Spainsold in sees growth of 27% 2,925 properties 121% growth in sold and also saw a new builds

over DEMAnD for property first quarter of the in Mallorca is the highest ten years, explains the in touristy, year. The Taylor Wimpeyproperty expert Marc Pritchard. starting traditional area’ near Alcudia The Andalucia region INVESTMENT by has seen prices leapSales and Marketing Director property prices rise from €180,000 for has seen arics leapt by foreign buyers in the Bale- overall had excellent of the island since by up to 25% in some parts Three-bedto €220,000 in just one year. a two-bed 30% in 2016, new units started at reveal. “Prices have gone uplast year. figures growth figures of 28% €235,000 in May 2016 in Mallorca possibly above last year’s The data published than on the mainland,” even more “The and are now at €300,000. German market remains Registrars shows by Spain’s Institute of rate, with 7,976 “Demand is the best Marc told the Olive Press. very strong, with propthe Swiss, Austrian the islands having biggest growth and Swedish markets up since early 2016.” in ten years. it’s been going experiencing the erties sold, while of anywhere in are also good growth.” try. the coun- Valencia registered One of the company’s The company is working developments in a Around 2,700 of 5,854 on ‘non- sites and is the key developer half a dozen active new properties, the 13,000 sales were for Cataloniasales and on the island. had 6,832 of buyers comingwith the largest number sales. Madrid regisfrom Switzerland.

Foreign sales up a third

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Expat family’s urgent plea for

A BRITISH family have made blood donors for their cancera heartfelt plea for blood to help save their daughter’s life. stricken daughter, 11 They urgently need donors of the type O Negative, as Mallorca runs desperately low on supplies. It comes after 11-year-old Serena Chappell found out she had leukaemia following a kaemia in just four hours and random test last month. she was immediately rushed The Mallorca-born girl - a in for a blood transfusion. keen dancer, who is trilingual But, now it has emerged there - had been complaining of is a desperately low supply of having no energy and began her blood type and few people to look increasingly pale. are eligible to donate due to a Doctors at Son Espases Hosruling over Mad Cow disease. pital discovered the ‘normally Her father John Chappell, energetic girly girl’ had leu34, has BRAVE: Serena and mum hearted now appealed to big Olive Press readers to come to the rescue. The removal man, from Yorkshire, who now lives in Valldemossa with wife Sarah, said: “Serena is doing amazingly, but needs as much help as she can get. “She is brave and strong and is facing many of her fears, especially needles, which have been a massive issue for her before.” The father, who has been by her side in hospital for the last two weeks, added: “We have started to cut her hair shorter as she will lose it from chemotherapy. She knows everything that is happening with her treatment and diagnosis.” FIND OUT ON PAGE 8 As well as frequent blood

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SACRE BLEU!

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Must stop the muggings

MAD COW RULING

APPEAL

Forget stars

Olive Press interviews masterchef Ferran Adria

May 11th - May 24th 2017

Mallorca’s original community newspaper FREE

DESPERATE NEED FOR BLOOD

ROBBED: Tourist mugged EXCLUSIVE

EXPAT bar owners are demanding a crackdown on muggings by criminal gangs in Calvia. The group insist the problem is getting ‘out of control’ and the council must take action.

transfusions she has had It after a British touran eight-day chemotherapy ist,comes 70, claimed he was atcourse and bone marrow and tacked by a ‘gang of prostilumbar punctures. tutes’ in Magaluf. “We are in intensive care 24 The regular visitor, who has hours a day and treatment a home in the area, is undercontinues, but the hospital is stood now very short on her type of “The to have lost over €100. blood and she needs more,” knows saddest thing is he not to take too much added her father. money with him as he can The main issue is that getting guarantee he will get proposithe type has been hampered tioned on the way home,” said by legislation. his friend Abbey Wright. Chiefly, if you lived in the Another UK for more than two years claimed expat Craig Beattie between 1980 and 1996 you affecting that the problem is tourism. can’t donate the blood in Spain due to a risk of carrying Let down traces of Mad Cow’s disease, which rocked the UK back “Two ladies told me their then. friends have stopped

Strong

coming due to the muggings… they don’t know if they will be back either, they have been coming

“As they do not test the blood the 20 years or so!” here they simply refuse to ac- Onelast bar owner confirmed the cept it,” explained Chappell, problem. “Even if we pay privately for “I feel let down by the authorthe tests they will not accept ities’ inability to deal with the the blood.” threat Chappell says the whole fami- gangs that is posed by the posing as prostitutes.” ly is remaining strong for Ser- Speaking anonymously due ena while having tests to see if to fear of reprisals, he added: they are a match for a poten- “There are victims every day, tial bone marrow transplant. many of whom don't report “Her little brother misses her the incident for fear of embarterribly and juggling time is rassment.” tough right now, but we are to commentThe council failed as we went to getting there,” he said. press. Serena, who attends school duced It comes after it introin Valdemossa, is said to be limiterits controversial sound doing ‘ok’ after her chemo- sound policy that keeps in bars no louder than therapy and is hoping to be in 62 decibels. her own room soon, but she still needs around the clock attention. “I hope people can find it in their hearts to donate,” added Chappell, “The blood that AN investigation has been comes to the hospital can't be launched over the rental of guaranteed for Serena but it council flats to tourists. The probe is looking into how does have a good chance. “In any case it’s not just for properties in the Sa Gerreria Serena, many other children area of Palma are being rentin the hospital may also need ed via rental sites, including blood, so this will help them Airbnb and Booking.com, for up to €150 a night. too.” Blood donation can be done Owners currently benefit at the Hospital Son Espases from lower protected rents, on Thursdays from 8.30am and under rental rules, tento 3pm planta O module F, or ants are banned from renting at the Red Cross Palma from to tourists. The Olive Press found that at Monday to Friday.

Flat wrong

Opinion Page 6

least three properties in the area were being rented by the online sites. All of them are fully booked until September.

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Sick of it ish hotel industry isn’t willing to accept any more false claims,” she explained. “We are looking for penal sentences for companies and people who participate in this fraud in Spain. “If the situation is not resolved quickly, we will have to take more forceful measures.” She urged ABTA to give FEHM

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businesses in Mallorca, with hotels offering all-inclusive holidays hardest hit by the scammers. ABTA recently wrote to Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson calling for a cap on legal fees to make such claims less attractive to claims companies. A spokesperson for ABTA told the Olive Press that the scams were doing ‘massive damage’ to British holidaymakers’ reputation. One hotel reported an increase of around 1,000% in such claims in the last three years. “Another hotelier got sued by a family who then came back to stay the next year, which he wasn’t too impressed about,” said Sean Tipton. “This is not the way to make friends. It is a form of fraud and you could go to jail.” He added that most of the legal claims firms seem to be based out of the North West of England. The Olive Press believes the majority are based in Manchester and Liverpool. Have you worked with a tout? Do you know any firms involved? Please contact newsdesk@theolivepress.es

Farron wants expat MPs LIBERAL Democrat leader Tim Farron has slammed the ‘utter unfairness’ of British expats being denied a vote in next month’s general election. Farron pledged the Lib Dems would grant MPs to expat constituencies to represent the 1.2 million British citizens living in the EU. Farron accused the Conservative Party of ‘breaking their word’ after it promised to grant the vote to expats who had lived out of the UK for more than 15 years. "In their 2015 manifesto, the Tories pledged to remove the 15-year rule, but they refused to apply this to the referendum and in February this year, dropped the policy and broke their word,” said Farron. "The Liberal Democrats recognise this utter unfairness of a system which denies UK citizens living abroad a vote. "That is why we've committed to establishing specific constituencies for all UK citizens who live abroad,” he added. Farron accused Tory leader Theresa May, meanwhile. of having a ‘twisted view’ and blasted her record since taking office in July last year. “Since the referendum, she has spent more time cosying up to regimes in Turkey and Saudi Arabia than she has engaging with the remaining EU states to work out the best deal for British people,” said Farron "But this twisted view of the world, where human rights are crushed, refugees trampled on and weapons exchanged with those who use them on civilians, this is not the Britain I love.” Opinion Page 6

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Couple eaten by their dogs THE bodies of an elderly couple found dead in their Mallorca home had been half eaten by their pet dogs. Local police officers made the grim discovery on the outskirts of Llucmajor. Police said the bodies showed no signs of a violent death with the man, 73, who suffered from heart disease, believed to have died in March. The 70-year-old woman, an Alzheimer's sufferer, died several days afterwards. One neighbour said: “Two months ago, we started to notice a strong smell.” Police eventually arrived to discover their corpses being eaten on the patio by three of the labradors, two of whom had died of hunger. The man’s body was found completely devoured with the woman half eaten. Social services boss Fina Santiago insisted that the husband, named as Andres P.F, had refused help from her organisation. “If someone says they can look after the other one, we can’t impose,” said Santiago.

Airline refused to stop selling snacks on flight despite her son having lethal allergy By Joe Duggan

A BRITISH mum has been left raging after an airline refused to stop selling nuts despite her son having an allergy to the snacks. Akilah Robinson, 30, was left stuck in Mallorca with no refund after walking off a Eurowings flight to London over fears for her two-year-old son’s safety. Tot Jamil was rushed to hospital with a severe reaction after eating nuts a few months ago and his mother feared an in-air anaphylactic attack, which can kill victims. “'I am angry at the way Eurowings treated us. It was really awful,” she said.

May 25th - June 8th 2017

That’s nuts! “Jamil has had an allergic attack before and I didn't want it to happen again. “At first they said they would reimburse me for the cost of new tickets but now they don't want

to know. It is not fair.” Robinson, from London, had flown to Mallorca with Ryanair, whose staff agreed to her requests. “Ryanair not only stopped serving nuts but made an appeal to other passengers that there was someone on board with a severe nut allergy.” German company Eurowings refused outright however, and she was forced to buy Easyjet flights back to London at a cost

of 750 euros. “We had a really good holiday but all that relaxation ended at the airport,” she said. A spokesperson for Eurowings apologised to the Robinsons, but said that a ban on nuts simply wasn’t possible. “Nut traces cannot be prevented in any case despite regular and deep cleaning of the aircraft,” said Katharina Muscalla. “Guests travel at their own risk.”

Cyber shutdown Sex abuse PALMA’S courts were paralysed following this month’s unprecedented global cyber attack. Trials at the court were delayed as the Ministry of Justice launched an investigation into the cause of the attack, which paralysed systems across the world. Court staff were told not to turn on their computers, as a virus would destroy them. The attack disrupted the extortion trial of businessman Pepe Tirado, who is also accused of attempting to pervert the course of justice. The cyber attack also delayed proceedings in the case of 19 suspected drug dealers.

up by 13% PROSECUTIONS of child sex offenders in Mallorca increased by over 13% in 2016. Altogether, 226 cases were reported last year, up by 31 from 2015, according to Mallorca’s Institute of Social Issues (IMAS). The rise is, in part, put down to better policing, with 126 cases reported in Palma, and 100 across the rest of the island.

You dope! POLICE have arrested six suspects and one dopey homeowner after a burglary at a Mallorca marijuana farm. The suspects are alleged to have broken into the finca, near Maria de la Salut, around 2am. This led to the finca owner brandishing a shotgun and chasing them off, leading to neighbours to call police. Police later arrested all six suspected burglars as well as the finca owner himself. They all face charges.

Taxman cometh ANTI-fraud officials uncovered €323 million in the Balearics last year. Inspectors from Hacienda hauled in 9% more in undeclared income compared to 2015, and a whopping 58% more than in 2011, according to new figures. Altogether, there were 3,100 cases on the islands in 2016, 400 more than the previous 12 months. Agents focused mainly on the tourist sector and larger companies on the islands.

Love, love will take you there...

M A L L O RC A · I B I Z A · M A R B E L L A · M A D R I D · VA L E N C I A

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Hottyoaks

ZOOMING IN: Bernie

Balearic Bernie EX-FORMULA 1 mogul Bernie Ecclestone has been spotted dining out in the Balearic Islands. Billionaire Ecclestone, who says he ‘was deposed’ as head of F1 after 40 years at the helm, was seen enjoying dinner with Brazilian wife Fabiana Flosi at Ibiza’s Marina Botafoch. Ecclestone, 86, left his job as F1 chief executive in January, has been a frequent visitor to Ibiza, and was last month seen dining with former world champion Niki Lauda.

The Hollyoaks cast are in Ibiza filming for the upcoming Six Weeks of Summer episodes. Scenes have been filmed across the island, including the debut of Adam Woodward, 25, who has recently joined the cast to play Brody Hudson. The 25-year-old star has yet to debut in the show, but has been seen working out on the beach and posting pictures of the cast on social media. The Manchester-born actor has previously appeared in Emmerdale, as well as BBC daytime drama Doctors.

Come on you Spain

TOTTENHAM star Dele Alli has been spotted soaking up the sun in Ibiza this month. Alli, 20, was seen playing in the sea with model girlfriend Ruby Mae, 22, before devouring a plate of sushi on the beach. The loved up pair were joined on the party island by fellow spurs stars Kieron Trippier, 26 and second choice goalkeeper Michel Vorm, 33. Both Vorm and Trippier were joined by their wives, with the latter also bringing along his daughter Charlotte. The holiday came mere days before Spurs sealed second spot in a 2-1 victory against Manchester United in the last ever game at White Hart Lane.

EX-WORLD heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno has paid a visit to Mallorca. The popular former fighter was the star attraction at Mood Beach as Saturday night revellers flocked in to hear him speak. Bruno was onstage with former Chelsea star and host Joe Allen for the event, which included a conversation with the former WBC champ.

EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan

IT would make the perfect mountain escape for a privacy-obsessed film or pop star. But, in truth, it would be best for a lover of real stars… the ones in the sky! For the Mallorca observatory, which has just come on the market, is celebrated around the world for its track record of discovering comets. Astronomers at the Observatorio Astronomico de Mallorca, in Costitx, have spotted no less than seven comets during its 26-year history. These include DA14 which, had it struck earth, would have created a 100-foot-high tsunami.

Tragedy

SPOTTED: Alli and Mae

Frank-ly speaking

It’s spotted more asteroids than Star Wars, now Mallorca observatory needs to find a buyer

On sale for €1.8 million, agent Amanda Butler at MJC Associates hopes the unique local landmark will be bought by an astronomer and kept open to the public. She claims that a group of developers are currently looking to buy it and plan to make it into a private estate. "It is in the interests of everyone to keep it open," insisted Butler. "It's a wonderful facility and it would be a great shame to lose it. “It would be a tragedy for the Balearics if it was shut and I am determined to try to find someone interested enough in the universe to save it.” She believes the right sort of buyer would get help from the town hall to use it in part as an eco-lodge or hostal. “This would make it more commercially viable and would end up attracting international study groups, as well as schools and universities from the mainland, an interesting addition to our tourism industry,” she continued. Mallorca’s space-age planetarium was added in 2003,

Barcelona beats BALEARIC beach favourite Cafe Del Mar is breezing its way to the mainland. The Ibiza clubbers’ chillout venue, which became synonymous with 90s clubbing culture, is opening up its biggest venue in Barcelona.

STAR BUY: Mallorca’s observatory

Home for stars

and, together with its sister La Sagra planetarium in Granada, discovered an astonishing 7,000 asteroids, second behind only the USA. The combined asteroid discoveries made in the rest of the world during the same period are only half those made by the two Spanish centres. The most important dis-

covery was in 2012 with DA 14, which would have had a ‘blast radius’ of 2,000 square kms. "If it had landed on Mallorca it would have destroyed the island with the force of an atomic bomb," observatory guide Joan Guillem told the Olive Press. "It came within 30,000 kms of earth, or one tenth of the distance to the moon, so very close."

FIGHTER: Frank Bruno in Mallorca

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Migrant Mayhem

POLICE have arrested 28 Moroccan migrants who landed on three motorboats in Mallorca last week before trying to sink them.

Punch drunk

A HOMELESS man who killed a youth with two punches faces 13 years in prison, after beating his victim to death in an abandoned Palma house in 2015.

Cheerio chiringuitos

THE popular Trenc chiringuitos are being pulled down and being replaced by temporary chiringuitos that can be dismantled in summer.

Comeback

FORMER World No.1 Victoria Azarenka is set to play her first tennis tournament in over a year at the Mallorca Open.

SLAIN: Saffie Roussos

Spain offers solidarity to UK terror victims

May 25th - June 8th 2017

DEAD: Georgina Bethany and (right) Nell Jones

Fully-stocked By Laurence Dollimore

THE British mother of a cancer-stricken 11-year-old has praised big-hearted expats and locals for jumping in to help her daughter. Sarah Gorman was amazed by the deluge of blood donated to help her daughter Serena, who was diagnosed last month with Leukemia. She revealed that after we launched a campaign last issue there had been a steep rise in donations of rare O Negative blood. “The blood bank has gone from five days stock to full stock,” said Sarah. “The reaction has been amazing.” The result is a huge turnaround since Spain-born Serena - who lives with her family in Valldemossa - was emitted to Son Espases hospital in April. We revealed, last issue (far right), how the hospital had a

Olive Press campaign has ‘huge effect’ and sees blood bank go from almost empty to ‘full’

blood, it isn’t just for my baby but for everyone out there.” While the stock is now full the family are asking people to let themselves be known to the hospital so that they can be contacted when more blood is needed. HELP Meanwhile SerSAVE SERENA! ena is still in hospital and recovering from her first round of chemotherapy, which has led to the loss of her hair. “She’s very up and down,” Sarah said, “She gets fed up easily and wants to see her friends, but no visits are allowed yet.” Serena will face another bout of chemo in the coming weeks. www.theolivepress.es

Alive in Spain?

Olive Press probes the 10-year Maddie case

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DESPERATE NEED FOR BLOOD

May 11th - May 24th 2017

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TYPE ‘O NEGATIVE’ TO BEAT

Must stop the muggings

MAD COW RULING

Waste of space

Don’t bother visiting Palma Cathedral, so says TripAdvisor

Page 13

ROBBED: Tourist mugged EXCLUSIVE

Courageous

Captain’s amazing scrapes with drug barons and CIA

Page 16

Forget stars

Olive Press interviews masterchef Ferran Adria

Page 27

By Laurence Dollimore

A BRITISH family have made a heartfelt plea for blood to help save their daughter’s life. They urgently need donors of the type O Negative, as Mallorca runs desperately low on supplies. It comes after 11-year-old Serena Chappell found out she had leukaemia following a random test last month. The Mallorca-born girl - a keen dancer, who is trilingual - had been complaining of having no energy and began to look increasingly pale. Doctors at Son Espases Hospital discovered the ‘normally energetic girly girl’ had leu-

Expat family’s urgent plea for blood donors for their cancerstricken daughter, 11

APPEAL

transfusions she has had an eight-day chemotherapy course and bone marrow and lumbar punctures. “We are in intensive care 24 hours a day and treatment continues, but the hospital is now very short on her type of blood and she needs more,”

EXPAT bar owners are demanding a crackdown on muggings by criminal gangs in Calvia. The group insist the problem is getting ‘out of control’ and the council must take action. It comes after a British tourist, 70, claimed he was attacked by a ‘gang of prostitutes’ in Magaluf. The regular visitor, who has a home in the area, is understood to have lost over €100. “The saddest thing is he knows not to take too much money with him

added her father. as he can kaemia in just four hours and The main issue is that getting she was immediately rushed the type has been hampered guarantee he will get propositioned on the way home,” said in for a blood transfusion. by legislation. his friend Abbey Wright. But, now it has emerged there Chiefly, if you lived is a desperately low supply of UK for more than twoin the Another expat Craig Beattie her blood type and few people between 1980 and 1996years claimed that the problem is are eligible to donate due to a can’t donate the blood you affecting tourism. in ruling over Mad Cow disease. Spain due to a risk of carrying Her father John Chappell, traces of Mad Cow’s disease, Let down 34, has which rocked the UK back “Two ladies told me BRAVE: Serena and mum hearted now appealed to big their Olive Press readers to then. friends have stopped coming come to the rescue. due to the muggings… they The removal man, from don’t know if they will be back Strong Yorkshire, who now lives in either, they have been coming Valldemossa with wife Sarah, “As they do not test the blood the last 20 years or so!” said: “Serena is doing amaz- here they simply refuse to ac- One bar owner confirmed the ingly, but needs as much help cept it,” explained Chappell, problem. “Even if we pay privately for “I feel let as she can get. down “She is brave and strong and the tests they will not accept ities’ inability by the authorto deal with the is facing many of her fears, es- the blood.” threat that pecially needles, which have Chappell says the whole fami- gangs posingisas posed by the prostitutes.” been a massive issue for her ly is remaining strong for Ser- Speaking anonymously due ena while having tests to see if to fear before.” of he added: The father, who has been by they are a match for a poten- “There arereprisals, victims every day, her side in hospital for the last tial bone marrow transplant. many of whom don't report two weeks, added: “We have “Her little brother misses her the incident started to cut her hair shorter terribly and juggling time is rassment.” for fear of embaras she will lose it from che- tough right now, but we are to commentThe council failed as we went to motherapy. She knows every- getting there,” he said. press. It comes after it introthing that is happening with Serena, who attends school duced its controversial sound her treatment and diagnosis.” in Valdemossa, is said to be limiter policy FIND OUT ON PAGE 8 that keeps As well as frequent blood doing ‘ok’ after her chemo- sound in bars therapy and is hoping to be in 62 decibels. no louder than her own room soon, but she still needs around the clock attention. “I hope people can find it in their hearts to donate,” added DE MALLORCA Chappell, “The blood that AN investigation has been comes to the hospital can't be launched over the rental of guaranteed for Serena but it council flats to tourists. The probe is looking into how does have a good chance. MORE “In any case it’s not just for properties in the Sa Gerreria revenue with Serena, many other children area of Palma are being rentin the hospital may also need ed via rental sites, including German clients! blood, so this will help them Airbnb and Booking.com, for Put your ads in up to €150 a night. too.” EL AVISO Blood donation can be done Owners currently benefit at the Hospital Son Espases from lower protected rents, newspaper! on Thursdays from 8.30am and under rental rules, tento 3pm planta O module F, or ants are banned from renting at the Red Cross Palma from to tourists. CONTACT US The Olive Press found that at Monday to Friday.

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APPEAL BRAVE: Serena desperately low supply of her blood type and few British people were eligible to donate due to a bizarre ruling over Mad Cow disease. Her father John Chappell, 34,

appealed to big-hearted Olive Press readers to come to the rescue. And that is what they did! Said Sarah this week: “Thank you all so much, but please keep giving as there is always someone who needs this

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Opinion Page 6

Sand storm A SHIP carrying 35,000 tonnes of Sahara sand has been given permission to unload its controversial cargo in Palma. The Southwester sailed into trouble after environmentalists claimed it was carrying ‘illegal’ sand to be used on golf courses, with a protest held on Tuesday. While the EU prohibits the illegal use of Saharan sand, its operators Lantimar confirmed the vessel had been granted permission to unload the sand. Environment minister Vincenc Vidal had called on the government to ‘take measures’ to block the ship’s ‘illegal cargo’.

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May 25th - June 8th 2017

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Fe atur e

May 25th - June 8th 2017

Mallorca’s original community newspaper

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in Spain with an estimated readership, including the websites, of more than 500,000 people a month.

OPINION

Travel sickness

THE ongoing mess of false insurance claims made by UK holidaymakers appears to be reaching its end. Monday’s high-level talks between ABTA and FEHM was clearly an opportunity for the Mallorca hotel industry to lay down the law. Honest hoteliers on the island have endured this outrageous loophole for too long. ABTA themselves have shown they are fully prepared to meet the problem head on alongside their Spanish counterparts. “We will support each other in efforts to challenge companies and individuals who are committing fraud,” a spokesperson told the Olive Press. The end is nigh for bogus claims.

THE CONTENDERS: Vying for your vote on June 8

With two weeks to go, the Olive Press presents the ultimate expat voting guide for the UK General Election, by Chloe Glover

The

Farron’s clarion call WITH the general election approaching, it is more important than ever that expats make their voices heard. We strongly welcome Lib Dem leader Tim Farron’s call for expats in Spain to have their own MP, as well as his call for the abolishment of the 15-years limit to vote. That rule prevented many of us having a say on the EU referendum, a vote that could still directly impact our lives here. Proximity to Westminster should have no bearing on your voice as a citizen, and this paper strongly endorses this Liberal Democrat policy. Mr Farron’s suggestion is not just a political move, but the correct one.

Reaping the benefits THE loss of Miro’s The Reaper was an artistic casualty of the Spanish Civil War. Alongside Picasso’s Guernica, its genius alerted the world to the horrors being perpetrated by Franco’s rebellion. A painting as a political weapon. Of course, it appears now, to be lost. But the tireless work of Miro’s grandson Joan Punyet Miro, the Fundacion Miro and Successio Miro ensure the public are able to enjoy Miro’s works and learn about his genius and legacy. And who knows, the original Reaper may yet reappear to fight another day. Depòsito Legal PM: 610-2017

Publisher/ Editor Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es

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Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: (+34) 665 798 618 Joe Duggan joe@theolivepress.es Laurence Dollimore laurence@theolivepress.es Chloe Glover chloe@theolivepress.es Laura Duckett laura@theolivepress.es Designer James Partington design@theolivepress.es

Accounts Héctor Santaella (+34) 658 750 424 accounts@theolivepress.es Maria Angeles Vázquez mangeles@theolivepress.es Admin and account assistant Distribution Graham Warters distribution@theolivepress.es

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T has been hailed ‘as good as a second referendum’ by pro-European expats. But what are the main contenders in the UK’s June 8 general election really offering to nationals living in Spain? It is their future in the country, after all, that depends on the agreements thrashed out through Brexit talks. Votes for life, free movement of labour, pensions, healthcare access and the possibility of a second referendum are among the issues we have scoured the three main parties’ manifestos for. So there is no excuse not to get the information you need before casting this highly important vote.

factor

A second referendum

leaves the EU. The Conservative Party said it will leave The Liberal Democrats and the Green the single market (free movement of Party are the only two to commit to hold- goods, services, people and capital) and ing a referendum to allow voters a final the customs union but wants to ‘pursue free trade with the European market’. decision on Brexit. This would come after the conclusion of Despite a commitment to freedom of movement being essential exit negotiations with the to gain access to the EU EU and would offer people single market, Labour arthe choice of accepting the There is no gues that the UK will still terms or staying in the EU. be able to trade goods and excuse not to get Labour has ‘accepted’ the result of the referendum the info you need services without restrictions. and has not stated that it It promised to protect before casting will offer one on the agreed workers already living in final terms of Brexit. your vote the UK, in an attempt to The Conservatives’ maniensure the same for UK festo reiterates their comexpats already based in mitment to leaving the EU. the EU. Its ‘transparent and fair’ managed migration system would focus on labour shortages and could include employer sponsorship, work permits and visa reguAll three main parties have committed lations. to retaining existing reciprocal rights for Liberal Democrats, by contrast, will keep current expats in the EU and EU nation- freedom of movement to retain access to als in the UK. the single market. But whether that will be truly possible They would also ‘simplify’ the process could depend on their policies regarding for EU nationals to gain permanent resiits key battleground policies concerning dence in the UK, and would seek to ‘sefreedom of movement and migrant ben- cure the same rights’ for UK nationals in efits and healthcare. Europe.

Reciprocal rights

Freedom to continue to Access to healthcare work and live in the EU Labour has promised EU migrants in the Both the Conservatives and Labour have said that freedom of movement (the right to move and live freely and work in the EU without a visa) will end when the UK

UK continued access to free public services through a ‘migrant impact fund’, financed by monies paid through high net worth individual visas.

It remains to be seen, however, whether it will seek the same assurances for expats in the EU. Although they have not commented on the specific issue of health, the Liberal Democrats have ‘committed to guaranteeing the rights of UK citizens living in Europe as well as the rights of EU citizens living in Britain.’ They will also try ‘retain access to European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for tourists. The Conservatives have vowed to increase the immigration health surcharge to 600 pounds for migrant workers.

Benefits No set plans on benefits for EU nationals in the UK or UK citizens in the EU have yet been announced.

Pensions Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats have voiced their support for an end to pension freezes for UK citizens living abroad in certain countries. Following Brexit, this could include those living in the EU, who have until now being exempt from such penalties. Many Conservative backbenchers also want an end to the freeze, with one, MP Roger Gale, even timetabling a debate on the issue in April.

Votes for life At present, British citizens lose their vote after living outside the UK permanently for 15 years. In 2016, the Conservatives committed to restoring voting rights to all overseas voters. But many were left enraged after it was revealed that they would again not be able to vote in the upcoming general election. Votes for life have also been promised under the Liberal Democrats, who have also vowed to ‘create dedicated constituencies for all overseas voters to elect MPs, such as what France and Italy has done for their own expats.’ The Labour party has given no indication as to whether it would grant votes for life.

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On the 80th anniversary of the Paris International Fair, Joe Duggan meets the Mallorca artist’s grandson

OAN Punyet Miró is a tireless keeper of his namesake grandfather’s artistic flame. As the early-afternoon traffic cruises down Palma’s Jaume III, below the Successió Miro office, he reveals how the Catalan maestro’s dreams ignited his bold artistic visions. “He started work while asleep at night,” said Punyet Miro, the manager of Successió Miro, which looks after the artist’s estate. “As a good surrealist, he was seeing how his soul was leaving his body behind, flying to the stars, running through the universe and coming back with a net. “In the morning, he would down his visions in a notebook by the bed.” Of course, Mallorca was a formative and enduring influence on Miro’s dazzling creativity. It was here he became entranced by the island’s light and colour as a child. And it was here, deep in the dark heart of Franco’s dictatorship, he chose to build a home and a studio, defying the regime’s brutality while others fled into exile, and seeing out his final 25 years as an artist on the island. It was a dangerous, and courageous, decision. His opposition to Franco’s regime couldn’t have been clearer. Eighty years ago this month, at the Paris International Exposition, Miro and Pablo Picasso first presented two of art’s most provocative political works. Guernica and Miro’s The Reaper were a doublebarreled shotgun aimed squarely at Franco’s Nationalists. But whereas Picasso’s Guernica survived the war, Miro’s masterpiece was lost in the ensuing chaos, explains Punyet Miro, one of the heir’s to Miro’s estate who administers the rights of the artist’s works.

Fe atur e

Magical Miro

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Penniless

“Unlike Picasso, who painted Guernica on canvas, Grandpa painted huge six panels on the wall made out of compressed wood,” he said. “As soon as they touched the panels he said, ‘I cannot take the panels. I am penniless and have no place to work’. “He sent them to Republican headquarters in Valencia. But I think they were used as barricades to help protect Republican soldiers and then they were destroyed.” The loss of the painting deprived the world of a masterpiece. But Miro himself thought differently. “He didn’t care,” said Miro. “It was like a Banksy MIRO: With The Reaper and (right) with graffiti. It was meant to be in that specific time family and (below) with wife and place. It was ephemeral art - it was not supposed to be sold or kept. It was an artistic weapon.” It was certainly that. The 5.5-metre-high painting depicts a Catalan peasant, sickle in hand, wearing the traditional red barretina hat. A symbol of Catalunya’s rebellious spirit - the Catalan national anthem is called The Reapers - the reaper’s fist is clenched tightly into a Republican salute. “My grandfather wanted to paint one Catalan peasant in a sign to make a revolution against fascism,” explained Punyet Miro. “He is the figure of all revolution against fascism. It is saying, ‘We are against Franco and fascism. “My grandfather was a democrat and that is what Picasso and he were speaking about.” The carnage depicted in Picasso’s work, which stood close to his close friend Miro’s in the extwice. Let him live, but control what he is doing’.” hibition’s Spanish Pavilion, provoked a famous In 1954, Miro bought a plot of Mallorca to build exchange between the artist and a Nazi officer. a family home. A purpose-built studio was com“One Nazi official was with Picasso in front of pleted in 1956, where Miro’s blistering work-rate Guernica and asked, ‘Did you make this?’” said produced some 2,000 paintings. It’s construcPunyet Miro. tion was complicated by the political exile of its “‘No”, he said. “You are the one that made this.”” architect, Miro’s fellow Catalan Josep Lluís Sert, Miro began his flight from France after Hitler inwho corresponded with the artist via letter from vaded Poland in September 1939, finally makAmerica. ing his way back to Spain in 1940. Upon returnWhy did he choose Mallorca as an artistic base? ing, the artist was treated like ‘the living dead’, “The light and peacefulness - and to be away says his grandson. A marked man, he had to be from journalists and museum curators,” said on his wits. Punyet Miro. “He was living in Mallorca and the regime “Through the hills of his house the mowanted all the letters he sent away to be ment when you see dark and twilight it’s opened and read,” said Punyet Miro. like magic happening because you can “That’s why my grandfather never wrote. My see the sun and moon share the same grandmother was the one who wrote space at same time.” letters. Prepared to put his life at Punyet Miro recalls being captivated risk, but nevertheless fearful of the as a 10-year-old boy upon first entereffects the regime would have on ing his grandfather’s studio. him and his work, Miro was pos“I discovered the magic of colour. Hunsibly spared by the international dreds of paintings on the floor, drawoutrage sparked by the murder ings and prints and etchings everyof another revered Spanish Rewhere. Plus a great group of different publican. elements that shocked me,” he said. “Franco made a mistake in “There were skeletons, roots, cactus1936 when he shot Federico es and sculptures from Africa, South Garcia Lorca. So Franco said, ‘I America cohabitating with different won’t make the same mistake PROUD: Joan Miro elements used in Mallorca culture.”

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Transport Railway Line Palma-Inca / Palma-Manacor – 971.177.777 Olive Press Buses in Majorca The – 971.177.777 Railway Line Palma-Soller – TOP for news in Spain! 902.364.711 Airport information – 971.789.000 Road Traffic Information – 900.123.505 His grandfather strictly regimented his working day. From nine until two, he painted. In the afternoon, he personally replied to his letters. At night, he read poetry, listened to music - jazz was a favourite - and drew sketches. Punyet Miro remembers laughing along to the films of Charlie Chaplin - a close friend of Miro’s - together. During his time in Paris in the 1920s, Miro would box with Ernest Hemingway (‘Hemingway was very tall and strong and Miro was tiny’), who bought The Farm from the poor young artist. As no colour photographs of The Reaper exist, a replica of the work - recently exhibited in London for the 80th anniversary of the Spanish Pavilion was made in black and white. “We didn’t want to guess,” said Punyet Miro. “We tried to be loyal. “We wanted to do it in London because the Picasso sent Guernica there to get money for refugee Spanish children. Also, many English people came to Spain to fight against Franco.” Through his work with Successio Miro and the Miro Foundation, Punyet Miro says they come across ‘many’ fake Miros (the FBI and Interpol often investigate the culprits). However, he still holds out hope that the original of The Reaper may yet resurface. “Sometimes I dream it has not been destroyed and I will find it in the future,” said Punyet Miro. “Of course it’s possible.”

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politics

May 25th - June 8th 2017

Poll position

Pedro Sanchez wins PSOE vote to return as general secretary

Bull-dozered A BULLFIGHTING fiesta thought to have been granted a reprieve faces a total ban. The controversial Correbour, which takes place every September in Fornalutx, was originally thought to have been spared from new Balearic animal rights laws set to come in. However, under the new changes the organisers must prove that it has been celebrated uninterrupted for at least a century, the minimum timescale to avoid a ban. Fornalutx mayor Antoni Aguilo believes this will be impossible to prove within the 30-day deadline set. The new laws, set to be approved this summer, will ban the killing or injuring of bulls, as well as the user of bullfighters on horseback.

PEDRO Sanchez has returned from the dead to become PSOE general secretary with a stunning political victory. The Socialist leader, who quit his role last year, overcame his Andalucian rival Susana Diaz, securing 50% of the vote to Diaz’s 40%. In the Balearics, Sanchez trounced Diaz, winning 71.4% compared with Diaz’s 17.8%. “The PSOE will make a useful opposition in defence of the social majority who are fed up with the corruption of the Popular Party (PP),” Sánchez said from party headquarters in Madrid. “We will comply with the ballot’s mandate: make the PSOE the party of the country’s left.”

Patxi Lopez, a former Basque premier who also worked as speaker of Congress, came a distant third with just over 9% of the vote. Sanchez quit as general secretary following the party’s decision to abstain in last October’s investiture vote, allowing PP leader Mariano Rajoy to return to government again. The abstention ended a ninemonth political deadlock during which Spain had two general elections, neither of them producing a winner. Last week, Podemos issued a motion of no confidence in the PP, with Pablo Iglesias’s hard-left party looking to the PSOE to help fight Mariano Rajoy.

Lazy! THE PP has attacked Mallorca council’s record in office, claiming it has ‘done nothing’. During a stormy two-hour chamber debate, PP speaker Mauricio Rovira slammed president Miquel Ensenyat. His attack came after the president’s speech on Wednesday. “They have done little, and done it badly. All they talk about is future projects The conclusion after two years is they have done nothing,” said Rovira. “Everything he has spoken about planning to do he said last year.” Rovira added: “Ensenyat has made a cynical speech, proposing a consensus he doesn’t believe in. We do not believe his new offer of dialogue.” Rovira highlighted the unfinished Soller tunnel - due to open in September, 2017 - and Llucmajor to Campos road as examples of Ensenyat’s ‘ineffectiveness’. “His speech shows the ineffectiveness of a government which is a slave to its coalition partners. “It is an unforgivable speech after two years in office,” he continued.

Task in hand THE Spanish government has set up a Brexit taskforce to help Spanish citizens in the UK. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is adding extra staff to Spain’s London embassy, adding 13 more posts to focus on Brexit concerns. Diplomats have met with members of the Surviving Brexit group - who the Olive Press interviewed in April - to discuss their issues. “The requests for support are growing,” the government said. “The current resources aren’t sufficient to deal with those tasks.” Two of the new staff will run the task force, with seven more providing back up at the consulates in London and Edinburgh. There are currently around 115,000 Spaniards in the UK.

Lord of the night MILLIONAIRE businessman Tolo Cursach is facing up to 80 years in jail for a string of alleged offences. Cursach and his cohort Bartolomé Sbert have been charged with 16 counts, including bribery, extortion, threats, moneylaundering, homicide, corruption and possession of firearms. The Mallorca impresario assembled his wealth over a 33year period, owning some 30 nightclubs, bars and restaurants on the island. Rubbing shoulders with King Juan Carlos, his business empire included BCM THE Balearic governin Magaluf and Megapark in ment’s vice president Arenal, but the source of his has questioned whethwealth has been a cause of er the increase in toursuspicion for years. ist accommodation is “Either he was very clever or pushing up Mallorca we were very stupid,” said rental costs. one police source. Biel Barcelo queried a Mixing with Mallorca’s recent report by Spanpolitical elite, the source ish academics José Luis of Cursach’s wealth has Groizard and William long been a subject of cuNilsson which blamed riosity. property price hikes on Cares Manera, an economics increased tourist numprofessor and former Socialbers. ist economist expert, estiSocialist Mes per Malmated around €300 million lorca deputy Barcelo was responding to PP in public funds disappeared deputy Alvaro Gijon, in one four-year period on the who blamed the govisland. ernment’s ‘restrictive “Tolo acted with impunity as legislation’ for ‘impedfar as the councils of Palma ing the end of the Baleand Calvià were concerned,” arics’ economic woes.’ said fellow nightclub owner “It’s an study with some Ángel Ávila. interesting points, but “He ended up with everysome of its concluthing. He became overlord of sions are debatable and the night. Any tourist coming have been questioned to Mallorca inevitably dealt by other reports,” said with one of his businesses. Barcelo in parliament. “He threatened anyone he Barcelo contrasted the came up against and dereport with another stroyed other people’s busirecent study, which nesses so he could snap linked evictions in Palma to the rise in tourist them up at rock-bottom numbers. prices.”

Tourist tussle

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la cultura May 25th - June 8th 2017

olivepressnews

Do you have a what’s on?

the 14th concert of the season at Palma de Mallorca’s auditorium. The mass was written by Verdi in 1873 following the death of his friend Ales-

Perfect Posidonia

sandro Manzoni and was first performed a year later. Tickets for the amphitheatre cost €22 and €32 in the Platea.

Miro and Picasso celebrated

ARCADE Fire, The XX and Bon Iver are just some of the star acts heading to Barcelona for our this year’s Download app now and Primavera begin Sound. enjoying the best Spanish The music festival will news on go. Catalan take place inthethe city from May 31-June 4. Other big names performing include Frank Ocean, Grace Jones, Run the Jewels and Van Morrison.

Major Soller art exhibition to remember life and friendship of two Spanish giants

JOAN Miro and Pablo Picasso’s before-seen works by Picasso as well work is being celebrated with a maas an original recording from Miro The Olive Pressjor new exhibition in Mallorca. dedicated to Picasso. ‘Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro, His“[The exhibition highlights] the tory Of A Friendship’ runs at Soller’s manifestations of mutual respect TOP for news in Spain! Can Prunera Museo Modernista unand admiration,” said museum director Santiago Mayol. THE Posidonia Mallorca til November 26. festival continues this week- The exhibition features seven never“The gifts of pictures, photographs end with a full programme and letters record a of cultural events. friendship that helped The Festival of Art, Envithem from an artistic ronment and Sustainable point of view.” Development kicks off on The 70-strong collecSaturday with a yoga sestion includes 30 pieces US songstress Jesca Hoop will play at Malsion and poetry workshops by Picasso and 22 from lorca’s Women Don’t Wait 2017 festival. in Deia. Miro. The talented folk/rock guitarist’s captivating Local DJ Funktaztik will be This month marks the vocal range has won her a strong following spinning groovy tunes from 80th anniversary of the in her UK base, where she has often stood in 18.00 and a food truck will Paris International Exto for Elbow’s Guy Garvey on his Six Music keep revellers refreshed hibition, when Miro unradio show. throughout the day. veiled The Reaper and A concert by the Surfin LimShe has toured alongside Eels, Mark KnopPicasso Guernica. ones and a set by DJ Eridu fler, Placebo and Andrew Bird and released will round things off in the (See page 6 and 7 for infive critically acclaimed albums. evening. depth feature)

Hoop dreams

what’s on

armen, June 1011

Palma’s Teatre Principal will show the passionate story of ‘Carmen’, performed by the Compana Nacional de Danza and choreographed by Johan Inger.

treet food, June 16-18

Port Adriano will host its second street food festival, with vintage food trucks, music and great family atmosphere.

xhibit, until June 30

The Consell de Mallorca celebrates Any Dionis Bennàssar with an exhibition, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the death of the watercolour artist. It is held in the Capella of the Cultural Center la Misericordia in Pollenca.

pen day, June 25

The Archaeological Museum of Son Fornés in Montuïri holds an open day to visit the museum and the archaeological site - located in an eighteenthcentury flour mill, the exhibition covers four periods: talayotic, post talayótic, classic and medieval.

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+TheolivepressEs Arcade Mallorca Requiem for a dream Fired up BE ‘APPY! for BCN VERDI’s Requiem will be performed by the Symphonic Orchestra of the Balearics. Chief conductor Pablo Mielgo directs

May 25th - June 8th 2017

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Best of luck Dear Jon, From one journalist to another, just wanted to drop you a quick line to wish you well with the new Mallorca edition. As someone who splits work in the UK with pleasure and family on the island, I'm sure you will provide a welcome boost of quality - and different dimension - to what's currently available! I a, ex-Yorkshire Post journalist in a different life (where my claim to fame was once spending a night in Raquel Welch's bedroom!), before crossing to the dark side of PR - albeit focusing on the livelier strand crisis comms. I'm over again at the weekend and look forward to picking up a copy hopefully hot off the press. Best of luck with the new venture, Richard Chew

Well deserved I have lived here for some time and have been in some fabulous restaurants with excellent food and service (Spain comes out on top with restaurants voted some of the best in the world, issue 265). The same food in UK would be very, very expensive but here it’s fairly reasonable. The Spanish cuisine has a marvelous reputation and well deserved! Lynda Addi, Malaga

Save Serena I wish I could help Serena. Unfortunately, although O neg, I am too old, (69), lived in the Uk for some of the years mentioned and live in La Cala de Mijas. Also many Brits do not know their blood group. I was a blood donor for 40 years and know (in Canada) who my blood helped. Please – anyone out there in Mallorca – go to one of the centres and get checked out. Only 5% of the world’s population have O Neg so donation is really really important. Meanwhile I will say some prayers for this little girl. Eileen Watson, Costa del Sol

Treasure trove Very excited to see what else comes from this discovery (Experts discover Christopher Columbus anchor, online) . I’ve been hooked on the show since the first episode. It’s interesting that the maps are there, the historical knowledge of the wreck is there, but no one had discovered this yet. The most interesting part is the grappling hooks. How successful were these sailors at recovering their goods with a hook? Does anyone think a large portion of the treasure could have already been recovered? Aaron Hawk, UK

Lesson learnt My deepest sympathy to the family (ABANDONED: Family of Briton killed by drug driver in Mallorca slam British and Spanish authorities’ handling of case, online). But there’s a lesson to be learnt, don’t go anywhere without Travel Insurance! Tamara P, Mallorca

May 25th - June 8th 2017

Sleuths

You react to our in-depth Maddie piece

Nice work

Insult to trolls

This has to be one of the most common sense and knowledgeable articles in the Olive Press for a long time. Great stuff.

Cops flop

J.S, Marbella

The Portuguese police were totally incompetent. Have you spoken to anyone in the UK Judiciary? I have, with someone who deals with child abuse and paedophiles all the time. I do not believe any of the lies printed by sick, depraved people who just want to earn money out of this tragedy. What a sick world we live in. Some people have no idea how paedophiles operate. They watch, they photograph and they order. They wait for an opportunity and pounce. That is what happened and most normal people know that. Brenda Jones, Jerez

Guilty by proxy

The minute the McCanns left their three children home alone and went out for tapas and drinks at a bar, however far away from the apartment, they became guilty and no charges against them from the UK. Disgusting parenting. Any other parent would be in prison for neglect. So yes, the McCanns are guilty. Agnes Fryer, Malaga

I read one of the so-called ‘detectives’ books and it is nonsense. Just a load of speculation dressed up as fact. Online they can be whomever they like, but there is a reason why these online trolls operate anonymously from their sofas. I'm glad to see an article that addresses these pests. Calling them trolls is an insult to trolls. Trolls are harmless pests in comparison to these people. They are malignant conspiracy nuts. You will find their type all over the internet. They latch on to major tragedies and target the victims of them with their stalking, abusive behaviour. They feel entitled to do it and call it 'freedom of speech'. Unfortunately, their behaviour has become a fact of modern life and police seem powerless to deal with them. Psychologists are starting to study them and they are coming up with some very similar conclusions, i.e. that the people who behave like this towards victims of terrible tragedies have a lot in common with each other. They tend to be anti-authority, anti-government, anti everything really. They are people who feel that life hasn't been kind to them whether it be through broken relationships or failed careers and businesses. They call themselves 'justice seekers', or 'truthseekers'. I fear for the victims.Your article struck a chord though and I think it struck a nerve elsewhere! Anonymous, UK

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ROPERTY sales in Malaga ince are at their highest prov2008. since An incredible The increase were sold in 2,925 properties March, which only beaten of 37% on last year, is nearly 100 by the number was between January of new and March, builds which

period. The Andalucia region has excellent growth also with sales at registered 28% above

last year’s rate, prop erties sold while the total amount in Spain rose of A massive by 26.9%. 40,461 homes across the country were highest amount in March, which sold is the since February Malaga’s College of Architects,2011. approves all which new buildings, the rise as described Last year ‘very positive.’ amount of saw more than double new homes the on the previous given year in Malaga,licences is home to which Benahavis the key markets of Marbella, and Mijas.

xxxx xxxxxx

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see 3 page Malaga market booming with around 100 homes sold per day, while Spain sees growth of 27%

highest amount since February 2011. Malaga’s College of Architects, which approves all new buildings, described the rise as ‘very positive.’

Last year saw more than double the amount of new homes given licences on the previous year in Malaga, which is home to the key markets of Marbella, Benahavis and Mijas.

Are you a winner? In Property Monopoly Page VI

Where Di and Audrey stayed

History hotels

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Dream estate for sale Page x

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May 24th - June 7th 2017

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May 24th - June 7th 2017

and Pfeiffer all stayed

Page VIII

ROPERTY sales in Malaga ince are at their highest provsince 2008. An incredible 2,925 properties were sold in March, which is nearly 100 per day. The increase of 37% on last year, was only beaten by the number between January and of new builds March, which soared at 121% over 2016’s equivalent last year’s period. rate, while the The Andalucia region has properties sold in Spain total amount of rose by 26.9%. excellent growth with salesalso registered A massive 40,461 homes were sold at 28% above across the country in March, which is the

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1 23/02/2017 11:31 679702_DFS_SPANISH_BOX_AD_40x40_MIJAS_COSTA.indd

EXCLUSIVE By Alexander Brown

OVER a dozen ex-members of staff are taking a popular Irish pub to court in a dispute over pay. ex-employees Disgruntled of Healy Mac’s, in Estepona, claim they were forced to work more than three times the hours in their contracts, and in some instances were not even paid for their work. The bar, which opened last year, is currently facing a series of legal battles connected to treatment of staff. One alleged victim, Kayleigh Smith, 22, said: “They treated us with complete disdain and no respect. “It was bullying and after countless legal letters, visits and requests we’ve got nowhere.

Employed by the bar from June 2016 to Feb 2017, Mendo also accused them of making him work 60 hours a week, despite being placed on a 20hour contract. He said: “It was a nightmare from start to finish and the same for many other staff.” A judgement on his case is expected on June 6. When contacted by the Olive Press, Healy Mac’s declined to comment.

week to accuse court&this in Bar our last re-Irish to court is PORT “Going Restaurant ESTEPONA Healy Mac’s S.L of unfair dissort.” Smith, who was a supervisor missal. at the bar in Estepona Port for He told Malaga court he was nearly six months, claims she fired without explanation, frequently had to work up to only for the company - which 60 hour weeks, and was bul- has various Irish pubs around lied by other members of staff. the world, including Thailand A former manager at the bar, - to later accuse him of stealAlvaro Mendo, 30, appeared ing from them.

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Spain offers solidarity to UK terror victims

IN SHOCK: Injured girl taken to safety

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THE FACTOR Crunch time

Our voting guide for UK election

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DISPUTE: Smith and Mendo

MARIANO Rajoy has condemned the terrorist attack that rocked Manchester this week. At least 22 people were killed and more than 50 injured after an explosion at Manchester Arena during an Ariana Grande concert on Monday night. “I condemn the attack in Manchester. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased victims and I wish speedy recovery to the injured,” said the Spanish Prime Minister Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias added: “Our solidarity goes to the victims of the bombing in Manchester. Counter-terrorism: The rule of law, democracy and human rights.” Newly-elected leader of the PSOE Pedro Sanchez said we need to remain ‘united’ to fight such terror. ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack while its affiliates were celebrating on social media shortly afterwards. The UK election campaign was suspended yesterday as Prime Minister Theresa May chaired an emergency Cobra meeting.

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per day.

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see 3 page

xxxx xxxxxx

last year’s Page properties rate, while the total A massive sold in Spain rose amount of across the 40,461 homes by 26.9%. country in were sold highest amount March, which since February Malaga’s is the approves College of Architects,2011. the rise as all new buildings, which described Last year ‘very positive.’ saw more amount than double of new on the previous homes given the licences xxxx is home to the keyyear in Malaga, Benahavis which markets xxxxxx and Mijas. of Marbella,

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ROPERTY ince are sales in Malaga at their 2008. highest provsince An were sold incredible 2,925 The in March, which is properties only increase of 37% beaten by nearly 100 on the numberlast year, was between of new builds January and March, which

Page VIII

highest amount since February Malaga’s College 2011. of Architects, approves all which new buildings, the rise as ‘very described positive.’

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CAPTiON

Malaga market booming with 100 per day, asproperties sold growth of Spain sees 27%

Where Di and Audrey stayed

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Spain’s best murals PROPERTIES SELLING FAST AT THE SPANISH ESTATE AGENT!

FLOODED OUT

LIB DEM leader Tim Farron has blasted Theresa May for ‘disregarding’ Gibraltar. Farron, who cancelled yesterday’s planned trip to the Rock in the wake of the Manchester terror attack that killed at least 22, accused the Tories of ‘breaking their word’. “96% of you voted to remain in the EU, but your voices have now been disregarded,” said Farron. “In the letter Theresa May sent triggering Article 50 Gibraltar was not mentioned at all.” He added: “At the heart of EXCLUSIVE our philosophy lies protectBy Laura Duckett ing the rights of people and standing up for minorities A MOTHER has slammed everywhere." the Ministry He also pointed out how the failing to takeof Housing for steps to proTories had backtracked on tect her children’s fragile I have now received two “But it is a a promise - laid out in their health. step I don’t have letters saying they could the money to take,” she in2015 manifesto - that they Janine Suetta, would grant the vote to ex- told by doctors 27, has been end up in hospital,” she ex- sisted. The incident occurred in pats who had lived abroad young childrenthat her two plained. ‘face hos- The family have been re- October for more than 15 years. last year when Japitalisation’, “The Conservatives pledged swept throughafter a flood peatedly prescribed antibi- nine came home to find a her council otics to clear several infec- huge flood caused by an uphome seven months ago. Continues on Page 4 tions including tonsillitis stairs pipe burst. The flooding - caused by and bronchitis. The extent of the damage works in an upstairs flat - “They say our chronic ill was so great the fire brigade left her Laguna Estate prop- health is down to the flood- was called in, and a houserty with serious damp and ing, which has left mould on ing department cleaner was ‘practically impossible to the walls and ceilings. sent to clear up the mess. live in’, she told the Olive “I don’t know if they are There are still holes in the Press this week. waiting for my children to ceiling and light fixtures She is now demanding ac- be hospitalised before they hanging out from damp tion from the authorities to do anything about Europa FC knocks the Red ensure her children, Tiana, am at my wits end. it, but I walls, while she has moved Imps off the top at long last 5, her children’s beds into her and Jay-z, 3, are not left “It’s not fair for a three and room due to a cracked wall at risk. a five-year-old to live like that she fears will fall on Page 7 Her two children struggle this. It is ridiculous to breathe at night and are are living right now.”how we them. This week, a Ministry for coughing all the time. She Despite this, housing fears their condition is get- have merely told her chiefs Housing spokesman refused to take to comment, insisting they ting worse. the building company con- were ‘unable to give out any “The doctors are very con- tracted for works upstairs information on the case’. cerned for their health and to the small claims court.

Property

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History hotels

ROPERTY sales in Malaga ince are at their highest prov2008. since An incredible were sold in March, 2,925 properties which is nearly per day. 100 The increase only beaten byof 37% on last year, was the number of between January new and March, builds soared at 121% which over 2016’s equivalent period. last year’s rate, The Andalucia while the total region has also amount of excellent growth registered properties sold in Spain rose with sales at 28% A massive 40,461 by 26.9%. above across the country in homes were sold March, which is the

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Mallorca Olive Press

www.theolivepress.es

May 25th - June 8th 2017

VISITORS: Cruise, Nicholson and Pfeiffer all stayed here

Issue 1

May 25th Palma - June 8th 2017 New Shop Beach

Your Leading Real Estate Expert on Mallorca

Tel. +34 971 23 85 84 www.engelvoelkers.com/mallorca

How to live like a Hollywood legend... oh, you’ll need a few million to start with

Brace yourselves

Busy summer ahead page II

Stringy sells Mirrored ceilings and all

pa see ge 3

page III

ROPERTY sales in Mallorca are at their highest for nearly a decade. An incredible 1,355 sales were registered in March, which is an increase of 39.4% over 2016. The second highest increase in Spain, British buyers make up 26% of the foreign sales, while Germans account for 40%.

On fire

Spain overall also had a fantastic year on year increase of 26.9%, recording

DEMAND for property in Mallorca is the highest in ten years, explains property expert Marc Pritchard. The Taylor Wimpey Sales and Marketing Director has seen prices leap by up to 25% in some parts of the island since last year. “Prices have gone up in Mallorca possibly even more than on the mainland,” Marc told the Olive Press. “Demand is the best in ten years. It’s been going up since early 2016.” One of the company’s developments in a ‘non-

touristy, traditional area’ near Alcudia has seen starting prices rise from €180,000 for a two-bed property to €220,000 in just one year. Three-bed units started at €235,000 in May 2016 and are now at €300,000. “The German market remains very strong, with the Swiss, Austrian and Swedish markets are also experiencing good growth.” The company is working on half a dozen active sites and is the key developer on the island.

History hotels page IV

Mallorca market booming with 1,355 homes sold in March, while Spain sees growth of 27%

a massive 40,461 sales in March, the highest number since February 2011.

‘Some prices have leapt by 25% in a year’ - homebuilder

Where Di and Audrey stayed

Malaga saw an increase of 37% with 2,925 properties sold and also saw a 121% growth in new builds over the first quarter of the year. The Andalucia region INVESTMENT by foreign buyers in the Bale- overall had excellent arics leapt by 30% in 2016, new figures growth figures of 28% reveal. The data published by Spain’s Institute of above last year’s Registrars shows the islands having the rate, with 7,976 propbiggest growth of anywhere in the coun- erties sold, while Valencia registered try. Around 2,700 of the 13,000 sales were for 5,854 sales and new properties, with the largest number Catalonia had 6,832 sales. Madrid regisof buyers coming from Switzerland. tered 5,684.

Foreign sales up a third

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Spain wins top award Pritzker prize page VI

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X 12

Property www.theolivepress.es

MORTGAGE PropertyTHINK January 18th - January 31st 2017

by mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola

Ready, steady, mortgage

UCH like its economy, Spain’s property market is on the up, and it has become the best time to buy in years. But before approaching lenders or banks to finance your Spanish dream, read Finance Bureau’s Tancrede de Pola’s top ten must-do’s. Hire a broker - Much better deals are to be had with someone who knows the business inside out fighting your corner. Keep a low profile - Don’t apply for new credit around the time you are trying to get a mortgage, you may be considered a greater credit risk if you do. Have your finances in order – When applying for a mortgage it is imperative that you can clearly demonstrate that you have the funds (typically 30% + closing costs) available for completion. Be prepared - Make sure you have all the relevant documents you need, bank statements, NIE, proofs of income, credit report, the works, the Spanish love their documents. Look the part - Start running your bank account as if you already have a mortgage at least three months before you apply - Avoid excessive spending, cut out subscriptions and memberships that aren’t essential and don’t splash the cash on betting or gambling. Lawyer up - You need a good team behind you to avoid being cheated, this includes a good estate agent and a lawyer. Reputation - Try to improve your credit score before applying, one tip: put all expenditures on a credit card and pay it off in full each month, ensure you are on the electoral roll. Best product – Have in mind the type of mortgage you want. Your broker will advise as to the most suitable, given your circumstances. Know your limits - Determine how long you want your mortgage term to be. You will pay less each month the longer it is, but bear in mind you will be paying more interest. Be ready - Get a copy of your credit report to make sure it is correct and correct any errors, and to make sure you are not unpleasantly surprised if it’s bad news. To contact Tancrede for all your mortgaging needs call: 666 709 743 or for insurance queries call: 951 203 540 Email: tdp@ thefinanacebureau.com

May 25th - June 2017 May 25th - June 8th 8th 2017

Keys Isl nd to the

By Amanda Butler

Brace yourselves!

AY in Mallorca has given us some fabulously sunny weather, and as the mercury rises visitor numbers seem to be matching the predicted upward trend for this year. The centre of Palma was seriously busy this weekend with restaurants fit to burst and car parks overflowing... and we’re still only in Spring! A reported 30,000 extra hire cars are due on the island's roads this year. Apparently they are needed, so we are all holding our breath for what is being predicted to be an even busier season than last year, which saw 13 million tourists visiting the Balearics. To say I am concerned about the impact on the island’s infrastructure is an understatement! As visitor numbers increase, it would be natural to anticipate increased numbers of property sales. Well, according to the latest official statistics - after a slight dip in February of 3.4% (perhaps due to a rather wet and chilly month – but at least the empty reservoirs were replenished), the Balearics had the second highest number of sales in Spain for March, showing an increase of 39.4% of sales compared to 2016. And, best of all, despite Brexit and currency fluctuations, etc, etc British buyers are still making up approximately

This summer is going to be a busy one, writes OP columnist Amanda Butler

26% of foreign sales, with the German market still the largest, accounting for 40%, with Scandinavians sneaking up from behind. It is understandable, of course, that there may be some procrastination among the Brits due to the UK election in the coming weeks, but with the result currently looking like a foregone conclusion, it is thought the increased strengthening pound will not be affected too much.

Need a hotel So what’s been happening on the ground property wise? Well it’s been an interesting few weeks for MJC Associates. We have been working on several requests for hotels in the Old Town of Palma, as well as the southwest with sea views – little change there! With the current popularity of the island, anything of a substantial size is now being priced with wholly unrealistic optimism or has ‘just been’

snapped up by deep-pocketed Scandinavian investors it seems! The last overpriced property we saw in the centre of Palma needed completely gutting and was being offered at €20m for only 3000 sqm! Hmmm dream on ... So it's not an easy brief at this present moment, which is a shame since several international hotel groups have finally realised that Mallorca is THE place to be (perhaps too late?) – so if there's anyone with either an existing or potential hotel they have for sale, in a decent location, please let me know!

PS. Looking for stars Another interesting project of ours is trying to find a buyer for the Mallorca Observatory (see page 3) which has recently gone into liquidation. We understand it would be possible to upgrade or convert it to add accommodation in order to attract international buyers. But it would be a terrible tragedy though for the island to lose such an important facility - so if you know anyone with an interest in the stars please do get in touch. It is offered at a bargain price in the interest of maintaining it for our future use - offers in the region of €1.8m would be considered, covering only the debt.

Contact Amanda Butler at +34 690075169 or by email: ajb@mjcassociates.net

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www.theolivepress.es Property

May 25th June- June 8th 8th 20172017 May-25th

Showboating! HIS team has just come second in the English Premiership for the first time since 1963. So Tottenham Hotspur owner Joe Lewis (inset) has every right to be showboating around the Med in his 68-metre superyacht, Aviva. The €126 million stunner has been seen in Gibraltar and Malaga this month and is believed to be en route to the Balearic Islands.

From €50m...

... to €36.5m

Leopard print walls, mirrored ceilings and all! NIGHTCLUB impresario Peter Stringfellow has admitted leaving Mallorca ‘would be a life changer’ as he puts his villa on the market for €3.5million. The self-made millionaire, famous for his London nightclub Stringfellows, is swapping island life for a

Falling Down

Basic Instinct star slashes price of his Mallorca mansion to €36.5 million EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan

EXTINCT: Village makes a comeback

T could probably best be termed a slasher! Michael Douglas’s palatial Mallorca mansion has come back on the market with a third snipped from the price. Originally on the market for €50 million, the mid-19th century villa - where the likes of Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer have stayed - has now come down to €36.5 million. “The property was originally €50 million, so it’s now a very good price for the uniqueness of the property and position,” said MJC Associates director Amanda Butler, who is marketing the property. She added: “It is an amazing property in one of the most beautiful parts of the island. I am sure there will be no problem in selling it now.”

Rising from the ashes

HIDDEN: Unique estate of Michael Douglas (pictured with Catherine Zeta Jones) in Mallorca Basic Instinct star Douglas has been a long-term homeowner on the island, snapping up the 247-acre estate for an undisclosed sum in 1989 with ex-wife Diandra Luker. As well as stunning gardens, the stylish pad holds a gym-

IF Michael Douglas’s pad (above) doesn’t float your boat then how about this jawdropping Camp de Mar mansion, on the market for a cool €48.5 million. With stunning sea views, 10 ensuite bedrooms and a huge outdoor swimming pool, it ticks plenty of boxes. Surrounded by fruit trees and nestling beneath mountains, the 400,000 m2 estate is a 20-minute drive to Palma. The property is divided into three houses. It´s for sale through Mallorca Sothebys.

nasium, games room, jacuzzi, library and wine cellar and cinema. Nestled in the Unesco World Heritage-protected Tramuntana mountains, it boasts seven separate buildings, including five individual apartments with 10 bed-

Camp de Mar-vellous

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rooms and two cottages. Its stunning setting, in 247 acres of rolling Valldemossa countryside, offers glorious vistas of the sea and surrounding countryside. Douglas, who scooped an Oscar for 1987 film Wall Street, used to tend to the vineyards on the property, which offers crystal-clear sea views of the Mediterranean. Douglas, who is married to British actress Catherine Zeta Jones, originally put it up for sale in 2015 but took it off the market last year. The property was built in 1867 by the Austrian Archduke Ludwig Salvator after he fell in love with Mallorca. Douglas’ films include Basic Instinct, Falling Down, Disclosure and Wall Street. Email Amanda at amanda. btlr@gmail.com for more information.

13 III

A RADICAL mayor is celebrating success in his campaign to save a village from extinction. Pedro de Verona has more than doubled the population of Chumillas in Cuenca from 21 to 44 in less than 10 years, while reducing the population’s average age from 75 to 40. It is hoped his initiative, which focuses around re-opening a school and encouraging small businesses to base themselves there, could be used to help turn around the fortunes of villages also at threat from extinction across Spain. “It had been closed for 28 years but now there are 15 pupils at the school,” said Verona. Verona said that the encouragement of small businesses to the village was revitalising its economy without having to rely on the presence of big businesses.

taste of Italy, eyeing up a pad in the glitzy Italian region Puglia. But the legendary lothario admits it will be a wrench to leave his pad overlooking Puerto Portals. “If somebody comes along that makes it easy and meets my price then I will possibly sell it, but to let Mallorca go would be a major life-changer,” he said. “We still love Mallorca we just don’t have the time to go. I used to be on a plane every couple of weeks, but when you’ve got babies you can’t do that,” added Stringfellow, who is a dad of two. MOVING Stringfellow’s OUT: Stringfour-bedroom villa boasts fellow four ensuites, a fabulous pool with some rooms kitted out in his trademark leopard print. The home, for sale through Balearic Properties, also has mirrored ceilings in the main bedroom, as revealed by the Olive Press last issue.

DREAM´S OVER: Banderas

Zorro Sorrow

ANTONIO Banderas has pulled out of a cultural project he hoped would revolutionise the city centre of Malaga. The 56-year-old Hollywood star, from Malaga, has withdrawn from the scheme at the site of the old Astoria and Victoria cinemas. It came after opposition councillors criticised the bidding process, which his team won, leading to allegations of irregularities and fraud on social media. “The chorus of voices against our project, inside and outside local politics, which didn’t just criticise it, but entered into sarcasm and nastiness, made me wonder if it was really worth risking so much,” said Banderas.

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IV 14

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May 25th - June 8th 8th 2017 May 25th - June 2017

The Alfonso XIII, Sevilla This Andalusian institution was opened for the Sevilla Expo of 1929 and nothing much has changed. The noble arches and columns are still here, and the corridors gleaming with iridescent tiles in Moorish tones, the fluted ceiling mouldings and gold-trimmed lifts. And guests still sip fino in the patio, as they always did. The hotel was a favourite with the current king’s mother, Doña Maria de las Mercedes de Borbón y Orleáns, as well as Sevilla’s most glamorous and celebrated visitors including Princess Grace of Monaco, Rita Hayworth (whose father was Sevillano), Orson Welles, Audrey Hepburn (above), Sofia Loren, Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana, right. Some scenes from the 1962 epic Lawrence of Arabia were also filmed here.

Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, Valladolid This stunning spa hotel is 900 years old. The former abbey in the wine-producing area of Ribera del Duero in Valladolid is one of the most luxurious hotels in the country. One of the former stables is now the Santuario Wellness & Spa, where a dedicated spa sommelier offers guests a glass of wine before advising on suitable vinotherapy treatments, then running a wine bath in your room, so you can gaze across vineyards to the mountains beyond. The abbey is a celebrated Romanesque building founded in 1146 by the Premonstratensian Order - a Roman Catholic monastic sect founded in 1120 by St Norbert (1080-1134), a German bishop. Much of the original structure has been respected - the monks’ former cells are now smart rooms and the abbey’s grand refectory is now an acclaimed restaurant where chef Marc Segarra Saune uses the estate’s produce to inspire his menus.

Castillo hotel, Mallorca A LUXURY 13th century hotel offers some of Mallorca’s best views of Palma. The five-star Castillo Hotel is a ten-minute drive from the capital and close to two three golf courses, including Arabella Golf Son Vida. Its impressive glass dome was designed by German artist Nils Burwitz with art by local Mallorcan artist Richard Anckermann adorning its walls. The 164-room hotel boasts two restaurants, two outdoor pools, four tennis courts, a whirlpool tub and a spa.

Hotels with history Spain has some of the oldest lodgings in the world

PAIN is littered with postcards from the past. From the Romans to the Vandals, almost every civilisation has set up shop on its shores. And to this day, some of their palaces, castles and magnificent villas remain intact and are available to stay in. For a romantic weekend away or a time travel trip through history, these heavenly hostelries have the coolest of back stories.

La Torre del Visco, Aragon This 15th century former farmhouse is set in 100 hectares of olive and almond trees. It was bought by a British couple - Jemma Markham and Piers Dutton - in 1995 and turned into a stunning luxury retreat. Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld, right, once nominated it as one of the three most romantic hotels in Spain, and fell under the spell of its wonderful breakfasts of breads, hams, cheeses and homemade quince jam.

The 17-room dwelling has a big library stocked with 3,000 books and a gleaming Bechstein piano. Guests, who include the former king and queen, above, of Spain, also have the option of arriving by helicopter.

Gran Hotel Montesol, Ibiza THE oldest hotel founded in Ibiza reopened last year after extensive refurbishments. The five-star Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza, which first opened its doors in 1933, is listed as a Place of Historic Interest by Spain’s Ministry of Culture. Housing 33 rooms in the heart of Ibiza Town, it is Spain’s only Hilton-owned hotel, with celebrities like Orson Welles and Pink Floyd enjoying stays in its Colonial splendour. The iconic establishment is a short walk from the area’s beaches and elegant cobbled streets.

Parador de Jaen, Jaen Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Galicia This Galician luxury hotel is one of the oldest continually running lodgings in the world. The parador was founded by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella at the end of the 15th century as a refuge for pilgrims. It was designed to allow them to rest their feet after walking across Spain to pay homage to St James, who is buried in the cathedral on Obradoiro square. The most impressive guestrooms overlook the square and feature four-poster beds and antique Castilian furniture. The massive granite building in gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles is set around four cloisters.

This spectacular restored castle hotel was built as a 12th-century Moorish fortress, connected to the city by hidden tunnels. During Arab rule the castle kept the city at peace, until it was captured by Ferdinand III in 1246. He extended the castle, which held out against the repeated attacks by the Moors over the next two hundred years, until all the Moors were expelled from Spain. Soaring vaulted ceilings, wooden beams and tiled floors add to the majestic splendour but the decadent comforts of its 45 bedrooms are far from medieval.

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Finest Real Estate Mallorca

Son Vida: Elegant villa in delightful setting in the most exclusive area of Palma. The sunny south facing villa features 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, a separate guest apartment, a swimming pool, air conditioning h/c, fireplace, garage and alarm system. E&V ID: W-00CH8N · Price € 2,850,000

Sóller: Spacious house with stunning views surrounded by gardens. It has a large entrance, living room, dining room, study, open-plan kitchen with pantry, 6 bed. and 3 bath. Furthermore an outdoor kitchen, large fish pond and parking space. E&V ID: W-023L93 · €1,750,000

Palma: Luxurious 171 sqm apartment in the centre of Palma’s Old Town. Bright living room with fireplace, 17 sqm terrace. Fully equipped american kitchen. 3 Bedrooms and 2 bathooms Underfloor heating, gas fireplace, airconditioning and parking. E&V ID: W-028VPG · € 1,590,000

E X W CL IT U H SI E VE & V

Illetas: Unique penthouse with spectacular panoramic sea views. Incredibly spacious terrace, summer BBQ kitchen with bar, relaxing lounge area, infinity plunge pool. 3 bedrooms, 4 en-suite bathrooms, bright living/dining room, 2 garage parkings. E&V ID: W-00AE1A · € 2,250,000

Santa María: Stunning and private country residence. The house has U-shape with a patio in the middle with olive trees. Mediterranean garden. Four bedrooms with bathrooms en suite, open plan kitchen and wine cellar. Large pool, own well, terraces. E&V ID: W-028Q71 · €2.950.000

Puerto de Pollensa: Big and beautiful! Just 300 meters from the seafront, a fabulous seven bedroom, high tech villa with large pool, loads of room to chill and a fantastic, full size roof terrace with Jacuzzi, summer kitchen and a whole lot more. E&V ID: W-022G85 · € 2,650,000

Engel & Völkers Mallorca · Tel.: +34 971 23 85 84 Mallorca@engelvoelkers.com · www.engelvoelkers.com/mallorca

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May 25th - June 8th 8th 2017 May 25th - June 2017

World class A Spanish architecture firm has won the coveted Pritzker prize for only the second time in history

T SLICK: Vilartagues school, Girona, and (above) other designs

he Pritzker - It’s an accolade desired by many but won by a select few, and up until this year, the recipients of the acclaimed award tended to be solo architects. The rewards of such a prize have been modelled on those granted to Nobel Prize winners – a $100,000 grant, formal citation certificate and a bronze medallion. In 2017, this prize will be shared by a trio of architects hailing from Girona. Their firm, RCR Architectes, the second in Spain to win it in its 39-year history. Founded by Jay A. Pritzker and his wife, Cindy who were based in the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago, the aim of the award is to encourage more creativity within the architectural field. It makes sense, then, when you see the vast eclecticism of the work of Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem and Ramon Vilalta, that it would go to the Olot-based trio.

Born in 1987, their firm, RCR Architectes’ first major recognition came in 1988 in a competition sponsored by the Spanish Ministry of Public Work and Urbanism. They won first prize for a lighthouse in Punta Aldea, after which they secured a number of commissions in Catalunya. Since then they have since spread their portfolio to neighbouring European countries. Having given countless lectures in Spain and abroad, they set up an international summer workshop in 2011 at their Barberi Laboratory studio, a converted early 20th century foundry. Their works range from public and private spaces to cultural and educational venues and include a winery, and swimming pool. Of their win Pigem said "It is a great joy and a great responsibility. We are thrilled that this year three professionals, who work closely together in everything we do, are recognised.”

South Beach baby Engel & Volkers open a new office in the rapidly rising Platja de Palma area

THEY have now got the whole island covered. Mallorca property experts Engel & Volkers have opened the doors on a brand new agency. The German real estate giant has opened its first Playa de Palma venture between Can Pastilla and El Arenal. And with Palma booming, director Terence Panton believes the area has ‘po-

tential’ to become ‘a quality city beach area’. Can Pastilla has already started to come up a lot over the last two years, while Arenal is starting to see similar signs. The 5km coastline of Playa de Palma is currently being renovated with millions of euros of upgrading from the Palma Beach Consortium.

Boom

NEW BRANCH: Engel & Volkers staff

bank battle continues

The battle for the consumers’ rights against banks’ abuses in Spain continues. The government has recently passed a decree which tries to force the negotiation of the complaints about the so-called ‘floor clauses’ (technically ‘minimum rate clauses’) which the banks had been forcing on the mortgage deeds over the last 15 years, so that any consumer has to follow a preliminary complaint process at the bank.

Failure to do this implies at the very least losing the award of costs and, in some cases, it may result in the clients losing the case at court, therefore it is

highly advisable to follow the steps. As to how this process works, it is still too soon but the experience shows that for many people this is just a waste of time since the banks usually try to make alternative offers of rate reduction instead of refunding the moneys. However there is a new battlefield on mortgage costs, since the Spanish Supreme court has recently maintained that most mortgage expenses – Notary, Stamp duty, land registry - are to be paid by the bank and not by the consumer. At the end of the day, most clients are filing requests for refund of the extra moneys paid on mortgage costs along with minimum rate clauses.

“This project could turn Playa de Palma into an urban beach like Miami South Beach,” said Panton. “It will trigger a real boom here and we forecast prices will rise significantly over the next three years. It is a good time to invest.” Property prices in the area go from €1,500 euros per square metre for renovated apartments in need of renovation. Apartments with sea views fetch €5,000 per square metre and villas upwards of €500,000. “Playa de Palma is one of the few areas of coastline on Mallorca where property prices remain moderate, in spite of the close proximity to the sea, the international airport and the capital,” Panton added. Visit www.engelvoelkers. com/palma for more information

Swede sensation

SALES of Mallorca property to Scandinavians have risen 13% in three years. The majority of Swedes snapping up homes on the island are aged 50 or over and looking to escape the cold north European winters, according to a local property expert. Vivian Grunblatt said that Mallorca and, in particular, Palma are now seen as ‘the place to be’. “When we started 12 years ago there were three estate agents dedicated to Swedish clients and now there are 30,” said Grunblatt from Mallorca Fastigheter. “They aren’t just looking for good weather, because they can find that at a cheaper price on mainland Spain. “They are looking for a lifestyle, the cafes, terraces and shops of Palma, it’s culture.”

Fair deal MORE than 6,000 homes were on show at this month’s Mallorca Property Fair. The Palma Arena expo drew together leading property companies offering apartments and houses to rent or buy. Solar-powered homes and fincas were also on display at the weekend-long event. Companies that had stalls on display included Palmer Inmobiliaria, Grupo Carreras, IPS Imo, Gregal Property Group and Fincas Fiol.

HOMESELLERS REPORT

Imperial's mint condition

T has been an exciting 30-year journey. Now Imperial Properties, founded in 1985, counts on a 12-strong team operating out of Santa Ponsa and Palmanova, with a strong focus also around Palma, Portals and Puerto Andratx. And with some 780 properties, ranging in price from €80,000 to €48.5 million there is something for every budget. “We know the market very well,” explains boss Paul Edwards, originally from Cardiff. “Although we have nearly 800 properties for sale, normally we can say to someone, 'You want to see that one and that one'. We can pinpoint very quickly what will fit.” “People can get tired, bored and overawed by being dragged from property to property.” he continues. With four of the team coming from the same family, Imperial prides itself on its friendly, down-to-earth approach. “We get to know our clients very well,” adds Paul. “Our clients tend to become long-term friends and are in and out of the office more than our own friends and family. “We also don't employ showy sales people, we employ genuine, honest people who can help clients people find what they are looking for.” Over the past two years, Paul explains, the most fast moving sector on the island has been in the €650,000 to €1.2 million-priced villa bought for redevelopment. "Due to the significant price rises we have seen in the last two years, we have carved a niche in terms of finding unreformed gems," said Paul. Our core market remains British buyers, but with a vastly experienced team able to speak Swedish, German, Russian, Catalan, Spanish, Welsh and some Italian and French, Imperial Properties is well positioned for buyers and sellers of most nationalities. “I am a family guy, and we are not here to dominate the world," says Paul. “We keep our feet on the ground.” Email info@imperial-properties.com or 971 692 434

HELPING CLIENTS: Imperial boss Paul Edwards

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May 25th June- June 8th 8th 20172017 May-25th

Silverpoint Puerto Portals Frontline Apartment—Direct Port Access 3 Bedrooms—Large Terrace—Parking—945.000€ - IP2-9140

Palma bright apartment in La Llonja very close to Borne and Port 2 bed, 2 bath, 70 sqm—495.000€ -reference IP2-9074

Santa Ponsa chalet with incredible sea views—3 bed, 3 bath, 155sqm—1.050.000€ -reference IP2-9125

Imperial Properties +34 971 692 434 - Email: info@imperial-properties.com - www.imperial-properties.com

17 VII

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Hotel heaven

A STUNNING five-star boutique hotel is set to open its doors in Mallorca in June. The Jaime III in the heart of elegant Palma offers access to the city’s stylish shops and trendy bars. Its lavish interior boasts art installations, while rooms will have views over the city. Meanwhile the new H10 hotel has opened its doors in Mallorca. The completely refurbished, four-star H10 Playas de Mallorca was bought by the luxury hotel chain in 2015. Its seafront location on Santa Ponsa beach gives idyllic views.

OMEOWNERS must prove they are renting their properties legally in a government crackdown on tourist rental accommodation. Until now, it was up to the authorities to prove a flat was being rented illegally, but now the burden of proof will fall on owners who could be slapped with fines of up to €40,000. The authorities are currently examining 313 cases of suspected illegal tourist rental from 2012 to 2016 in Mal-

May 25th - June 2017 May 25th - June 8th 8th 2017

Rent row

Landlords must prove they are legally renting in new crackdown lorca. The numbers have risen steeply year on year, with 42

in 2013, 50 in 2014, 52 in 2015 and 121 in 2016. During the same period, 1,124

We’re setting the limits

LANDLORDS in Palma are set to be limited to renting four holiday homes each. The legislation put forward by the PSOE and Mes government would also restrict the number of days homes can be rented from 60 or 75.

Podemos have also asked the government to define what an ‘emergency’ rental ban in areas with high tourist rental, like central Palma, would mean. The holiday rental legislation is due to go before parliament by the end of June or July.

denuncias were reported to Mallorcan authorities over suspected illegal tourist rentals. Director of Tourism Pilar Carbonell said part of the reason for the change was it was ‘illegal’ for the authorities to make fake online bookings in an attempt to catch offenders. But MP Josep Melia slammed the change in the law as ‘unconstitutional’. “It’s as if I had to prove that this morning I hadn’t driven on the Inca highway at 140km/h without feet or my head,” he raged.

Loan rangers MORTGAGE volumes have increased by €10 billion in Spain since 2013. It comes as a result of increased property transactions, which have risen from 300,000 in 2013 to just under 460,000 in 2016, according to bank BNP Paribas and UCI. The uplift in activity has led to renewed interest in Spain from abroad, with foreign buyers returning to the market in high numbers. The numbers of overseas buyers has soared from just 6% in 2006 to 17% in 2016, with British buyers the largest group (19% of all foreign buyers). New rules are now in place to help limit lending and make house buying a ‘safer process’ for lenders and buyers.

be CAREFUL OF THE CLOWNS Beware of property conman operating in Spain, warns leading analyst Mark Stucklin

EPUTABLE local agents warn that a fraudster is offering bargain properties in Spain to trick the unsuspecting out of their deposits. The fraudster is offering ridiculously cheap property to trick victims into handing over deposits that will never be seen again. The fraudster is someone who used to work for a local real estate agent, then legged it to Thailand with the client database, and is now hammering the

mailing list with astounding bargains that don’t exist. “So far we have found three clients who have paid him approximately €22,000 in deposits,” I am told. Once he has got his hands on the money, the fraudster no longer responds. An example of how he operates: He is hawking a villa for sale in Las Ramblas on the Costa Blanca – actual price €400,000 – as a bank repo with pool for just €99,995, which can be secured with a €10,000 deposit if you move fast and transfer him the money. Apparently the Police have been informed, and legal action is underway. As reputable local agents point out: ” If something

looks too good to be true, it probably is”. They also offer the following advice: 1. Ensure the agent has an established office 2. Check for AIPP membership 3. Do your research, if a property is at an unbelievable price, why is it still for sale? 4. Do your research on the agent The Spanish property market is plagued with incompetent clowns, cowboys, and crooks. Be careful who you deal with. www.spanishpropertyinsight.com

Love it! THIS is the home set to become a hotbed of passion for this year’s series of Love Island. The stunning villa, in Sant Llorenç des Cardassar, Mallorca, with sprawling terrace, outdoor pool and a barbecue area normally rents for €3,500 per month in summer. The reality TV series, presented by Caroline Flack, sees a group of single people installed in a luxury villa in the hope of finding love.

New development with sea views in Palma Casa Ferrari is located in the outskirts of Mallorca’s vibrant capital Palma, in the sought-after area of Cala Major. The brand-new luxury project consists of 2 buildings, „Sky“ and „Oasis“, both south-west facing towards the glistening sea and blending Mediterranean living with Scandinavian design. Walking distance to sandy beach and only five minutes to Palma City. Most of the apartments enjoy superb views over the sea, whilst the ground floor apartments have private gardens with pool. The apartments vary in sizes between 42 sqm and 145 sqm. The penthouses have generous private roof terraces and private pools with superb views across the sea and nearby capital. An iconic community pool on the roof of the Oasis building invites residents to chill and relax in a redefined urban landscape with a fresh and contemporary design. E&V ID: W-0288PM · Prices from € 245,000 Engel & Völkers · Palma Southwest T. +34-971-22 23 23 · palmasouthwest@engelvoelkers.com engelvoelkers.com/casaferrari

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t Mallorca Best Homes, quality not quantity - is the name of the game. The three-strong team of Martina Becker-Zahn, husband Stephan Zahn and Susanne Dietze offer expert real estate knowledge of Mallorca's stunning south-west coastline. Both Martina and Susanne have been living in Santa Ponsa for more than 13 years and know the location very well. Rather than offering properties all over Mallorca, they concentrate on the area they are at home with as their aim is to give thorough expert advice to their clients about the location of their future home. Unlike some of the larger players in the market, the size of Mallorca Best Homes' team allows them to offer a more personal service to their clients.

May 25th - June 2017 May 25th - June 8th 8th 2017

South West is best

Mallorca Best Homes offers quality not quantity for the popular region, writes Joe Duggan

Trust

It's a successful business model. Since opening three years ago, the SantaPonsa-based company has gone from strength to strength, with the first five months of 2017 already surpassing previous year's sales. ‘Trust is the bedrock of this success’, and Mallorca Best Homes relationship with their clients doesn't end once you are handed your keys, as Martina explains. "The first apartment I sold was to an 83-year-old lady," she says. "She wanted a place with somebody who could take care of her. "She is still a good friend and regularly comes into the office. She recently needed help with her phone line because there was no proper signal. She also asked us to help sort out her will, which proves a trustworthiness that we are not just agents, but really help our clients. "We had a British couple this morning whom we helped to open a bank account and advised how to get the best exchange rates when transferring money," she says. "In fact, we help many of our old clients.

AP 149 | Nova Santa Ponsa | 499.000 €

H 200 | Nova Santa Ponsa | 1.950.000 €

AP 192 | Costa de la Calma | 745.000 €

Sea view apartment in sought-after complex in 1st sea line, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, fantastic sea view terrace. Residence with 2 pools, direct sea access, parking.

Renovated house with great garden in best villa location, 1.100 qm plot, 150 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, covered and uncovered terraces, pool, garage.

Penthouse with fantastic sea views, 150 sqm, 2 bedrooms, 1 office, 2 bathrooms, 280 sqm terrace space, community pool.

· Your estate agent for all budgets in the Southwest of the island ·

TEAMWORK: Martina and Susanne look after their clients

If they get a letter from the Town Hall we can show them where to go. Informing them so that they know about their obligations as property owners and can avoid problems.. . Our door is open for them." She adds: "We can't compete with the big names so we need to offer something else. To make people more comfortable with us, offering a better, more comprehensive service far beyond what is considered to be an agent’s work." Offering everything from studio flats costing €99,000 to luxury Andratx villas costing €9 million, there is something for every budget. A regular visitor to Mallorca since the age of ten, Martina, who speaks perfect English, ensures that her clients have a full command of what is required when buying. As Mallorca's popularity continues to soar - it was recently voted number six island in the world on Tripadvisor - the area around Santa Ponsa has become highly sought after by an ever-growing international clientele. "You have an infrastructure in the south west which is designed for the main European languages," says Martina. "You can get British or German dentists and there is an international medical centre. So there's no need to drive to Palma." Of course, investing in a Mallorca property, with prices continuing to rise, is not just the ideal way to ensure you have a dream holiday home in a beautiful location. "In former times people bought property to use as a holiday home, but now people want to make a safe investment as they know the price will not decrease," says Martina. And of course, property owners who consider selling are welcomed to their office on Avenida Jaime I, to talk about possible sales prices and details of the sale process, including tax issues . Email info@mallorca-best-homes. com or call 0034-971694055 or 0034 640 285997

AP 149 | Nova Santa Ponsa | 499.000 €

H 200 | Nova Santa Ponsa | 1.950.000 €

AP 192 | Costa de la Calma | 745.000 €

Sea view apartment in sought-after complex in 1st sea line, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, fantastic sea view terrace. Residence with 2 pools, direct sea access, parking.

Renovated house with great garden in best villa location, 1.100 qm plot, 150 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, covered and uncovered terraces, pool, garage.

Penthouse with fantastic sea views, 150 sqm, 2 bedrooms, 1 office, 2 bathrooms, 280 sqm terrace space, community pool.

· Your estate agent for all budgets in the Southwest of the island ·

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-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views

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Taxing times CATALANS are least likely to donate their taxes to the Spanish Catholic Church. Only 19.76% of taxpayers in the northern region tick a box on their return to donate 0.7% of their salary to the church or to charities. The Balearic Islands are fourth-bottom of the list of 15 autonomous regions, with 30.12% choosing to donate. The biggest contributors to the Church’s coffers come from Castilla La Mancha, where 48.87% of earners choose to pay the tax. Last year, the Church raised €227 million from the tax, with charitable social projects receiving €299 million.

CAR hire has rocketed by 36% in the Balearic Islands in the past year. This summer, a record 100,000 rental vehicles will be on the islands’ roads, Download according toand our app now figuresbegin from motoring enjoying the best SpanishNO TAX: Figures body Aevab.

Rise

23 23

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news on the go.

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Air travellers

Around 60,000 of the soar in April cars will be hired in Mallorca, Aevab estiPALMA Airport passenger mates. The organisation’s numbers shot up by 23.7% in president Ramon Reus April. The year-on-year increase saw says there never Thehave Olive Press 2,228,171 travellers passing been so many cars on through the airport last month. Mallorca’s roads as this The leap on last year’s numbers TOP for news in Spain! summer. was in part due to Easter falling Aevab is now demand- in April this year whereas last ing that all car-hire year it came in March. companies sign up to In total, 1,687,686 passengers the code of good prac- travelled to and from foreign tices promoted by the destinations, a 24.3% increase government and con- on last April’s figure. Some 539,765 travellers flew to sumer associations. Several large firms domestic destinations across have refused to sign up Spain, a jump of 21.8% on April 2016. to the code. Reus also said that the Germans were the most freincrease in cars could quent flyers, with 766,947 landor taking off from the capilead to local mayors ing tal, a 22.7% increase on 2016. issuing driving re- Spaniards were second, with strictions on certain the number of visitors from roads. the UK the third highest, with

NEWS IN BRIEF Official visit SPAIN’S prime minister has bolstered relations with China through a recent official visit. Mariano Rajoy met with president Xi Jinping to discuss bilateral relations and the Spanish companies interested in participating in infrastructure projects in the future.

Stocks slump EUROPEAN shares dipped as a result of fresh political concerns in Spain. Pedro Sanchez's election to the PSOE means the government is less likely to get the opposition support required to pass legislation.

GETTING BUSY: Palma airport visitors up by 24%

Flying high 430,364 British flyers, Since January, 4,698,768 passengers have travelled to

and from Palma, an 8.7% increase on the same period last year.

In total, 17,005 flights took off or departed from the airport in April.

Keeping things civil CHURCH weddings have declined by 50% since 2008. A study by KPMG has revealed people are opting for small civil ceremonies as a result of Spain's financial struggles.

I want to live in Spain, but above all else I want to live Spain. Do you know what I mean?

Where all your answers are found. All of them.

Finding your new house in Spain isn’t just a huge step. It’s also a huge journey, and it’s normal for some questions to arise along the way. As a leading real estate agency in Spain, we have expertise across the whole territory and are backed by one of the country’s largest banking groups. So, thanks to the experience and support of our personal advisers, we can offer you a comprehensive service throughout the entire purchase process. Do you have any questions? Welcome to the place where your answers are found. All of them.

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BUSINESS

May 25th - June 8th 2017 May 25th - June 8th 2017

Balearic companies suffer 5,000 cyber attacks since 2015

Unlucky strike CASINO chiefs have denied allowing underage gamblers inside their Mallorca premises. It comes after Palma police accused four gambling halls of letting minors in to play on betting machines. But a spokesperson from Balearic gambling trade body head Sareiba said these were ‘isolated cases’ and the rules were ‘clear’.

MORE than 5,000 Balearic companies have been hit by cyber attacks since 2015, new figures show. The shocking statistics were revealed after this month’s unprecedented cyber attack, which paralysed computer systems around the world. In total, 38,068 Spanish firms have suffered attacks since 2015, with the Balearics enduring more than 15% of the total, according to consultant group Pyramide Asesores. Companies were struck by hackers sending virus-infected emails with criminals then demanding payment for an encryption password to get rid of the

Full of beans

Cyber wars formation, such as date of birth, should not be used in passwords. May’s cyber attack affected around 150 countries across the globe, with hackers using a system THE price of gas has shot up by 26% since called 'Wanna Cry' last July, new figures show. to demand a ranA 12.5 kg gas cylinder now costs €14.18, som. compared to €11.27 last summer. The attack by hackThis month’s hike by the government is er group Shadow an almost 5% rise from April’s price of Brokers left institu€13.52. tions like the NHS The increase in costs is linked to more exreeling, with some pensive prime materials. 200,000 victims hit.

virus. Mallorca business leader José Luis Roses.recom-

mended firms update control and security systems and that personal in-

It’s a gas

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STARBUCKS is opening its first outlet in the centre of Palma. The coffee shop in Plaza de Cort will be the third Starbucks on the island, with two other cafes in the airport and the suburbs.

Taxi trouble PIRATE cab drivers in Mallorca are set to be slapped with fines of between €612,000. The Balearic government is set to crack down on illegal cabbies who advertise on the internet. Inspections will be concentrated on the airport, where pirate cab drivers carry out their operations, between June and September. Unauthorised car rental services will also be targeted, according to transport director general Jaume Mateu.

AGONY ANT YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES

Malta tax haven in the spotlight - The European Panama?

Taxing issue T

HE EIC, or European Investigative Collaborations network, has recently launched The Malta Files campaign to denounce how the Mediterranean state works as a pirate base for tax avoidance inside the EU. Over the last three months, the EIC network has dug into hundreds of thousands of documents that show that Malta operates a tax system where companies pay the lowest tax on profits in the EU. Spanish newspaper El Mundo is now after such companies because it thinks that when carrying out their activities, a very high proportion of them cross the red line separating lawful tax optimization with tax illegal evasion and concealment. Although moving to Malta for tax reasons is not illegal per se, some companies set up their main offices in the tiny island without having any infrastructure, staff, resources or economic substance to pursue their activities, thereby openly defying business logic and principles: such companies are typically only after hard tax avoidance. Other companies do go as far as to open lavish offices with real staff and computers, but with a different mission: to approach residents of Spain or with homes in Spain and offer them attractive Spanish inheritance tax

avoidance schemes, often through offshore structures involving single life insurance policies and/or trusts where funds are held. One example: one well-known financial planning company headquartered in Malta is operated by three staff, and they hardly have any local clientele. Conversely, it has a staggering 25 employees and four offices in Spain, where most of their clients come from. This company offers what they call ‘Maltese tax sheltered trusts’ to residents of Spain. The very name ‘tax shelter’ already signals trouble ahead, and trusts are not recognised in Spain. The Spanish Tax Office AEAT, in several tax rulings (October 2008, January 2010 and May 2010), has simplified this discussion by disregarding their existence. In observance of Spanish laws, the transactions carried out through trusts are made directly between the settlor/s and the beneficiary/ies - even in cases where the trustees had certain discretionary powers to allocate or distribute the assets held by the trusts to the beneficiaries. Furthermore, life insurance beneficiaries will be subject to Spanish IHT provided they are Spanish tax residents or where not, if the policy was taken out with a foreign company operating in Spain, which is typically the case.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.com

health

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Tongue tied ALL sexually transmitted diseases (STD) can be caught by oral sex, a Mallorca doctor has warned. Leire Gil heads up the Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Infections unit in the hospital of San Espases. Gil warned their department had seen gonorrea leap fivefold since 2008, with syphilis also showing a sharp rise. “There are those who are convinced that unprotected oral sex carries no risk,” said Gil. “But of course, all STDs can be caught through oral sex that is practiced without protection. “Although it is certainly less of a risk than penetrative sex. The most recent statistics from the unit showed 75% of the patients were men, with 25% women, 61% were heterosexual, 31.4% homosexual and 7% bisexual.

May 25th - June 8th 2017 May 25th - June 8th 2017

Wave wonder

A NEW health yoga health craze is making a big splash in Mallorca. Paddleboard - or SUP - yoga is performed while standing up on boards in calm waters, such as the beach on Can Pastilla. Bonaona surf school takes pupils through their strides while out on the water, with SUP teacher Paola Marcon taking classes for the last four years.

“Although it doesn’t look like it, we burn lots of calories,” said Paola, who moved to Mallorca from Argentina 15 years ago. “It’s something new for the body and mind and it tires you out. SUP originates from Hawaii, where it became popular around a decade ago. Just being on top of the board helps to align all your core muscles and your vertebrae,” said Marcon.

Top ranking

SPAIN’S healthcare has been ranked among the top ten in the world. The Healthcare Access and Quality Index (HAQ), studied the quality of healthcare in 195 countries by measuring mortality rates from causes that should not be fatal in the

Spain healthcare among top ten best in the world, far above the UK’s presence of effective medical care. In the study, the number of

deaths from some 32 diseases and conditions were analyzed between 1990 to 2015.

Sofrito so good

CATALAN nutritionists have revealed for the first time the health giving effects of traditional Mediterranean sofrito. The sauce, popular throughout Catalunya, was examined by scientists at the University of Barcelona for its healthgiving properties and carotenoids. Its onion and garlic base make sofrito good for warding off cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancer, they found. Its slow cooking time of around an hour

also allows the onion to release licopeno, which helps cancer and type-two diabetes with the tomato producing carotenoids Maria Lamuela Raventós, university researcher, said: “Our objective was to evaluate how the sofrito home cooking process and synergies between different ingredients used in this sauce -such as extra virgin olive oil, onion and garlicinteract and increase the presence of these carotenoids”.

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Spain scored 90 out of 100, placing it 8th, and putting it above the likes of Italy (89), France (88), Greece (87), Germany (86), the UK (85) and Portugal (85). Andorra came first with 95, followed by Iceland on 94 and Switzerland on 92 points. The UK and US came 30th and 35th respectively. The study concluded that nearly all countries saw an improvement in their ratings, with the average score increasing by 40.7 points. Spain scored the maximum points in its treatment of diptheria, tetanus and measles. It scored the worst for treatment of Hodgkins Limphoma (64 points), Leukemia (66), gallbladder disease (74) and skin cancer (74), but these were still above the average.

Weighing in MEN in Spain are a third more likely to be overweight than women. 40.5% of men aged 18 to 65 are overweight against 31.4% of women of the same age, according to new statistics. Differing genetic makeup between men and women has been suggested as a partial explanation, along with a difference in the average physical activity levels and dietary habits.

Habits

Educational level, the type of work and incomes were also suggested as factors by expert doctor Rosa Maria Ortega. She suggested men with the highest education level who took part in at least 150 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week were least likely to be overweight.

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notice FieLd/General Sales person We are looking for an outgoing self-motivated individual to fill this key position for the Mallorca edition. This is an important role that will command a basic, plus generous commissions. Key Requirements: ●● ●● ●● ●● ●●

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Horsing around

A GIANT among Spain’s paella makers has died. Food lovers have paid their respects to Antonio Galbis, 84, who broke two world records for his huDownload our app now and mongous record-breaking rice dishes. begin enjoying the best Spanish Galbisnews usedoncranes, the go. cherry pickers and huge poles to YAY OR NEIGH: Horsemeat make his impressive feats possible, the most famous of whch involved creating a paella in Madrid in 2001 which fed 110,000 people. It beat the previous world record he set in 1992 in Valencia, when he cooked TheforOlive Press up a storm 100,000. The owner of renowned for news inPaSpain! paellaTOP party company ella Galbis, his creations were devoured by celebrities, world dignitaries and footballers. Commenting on his work, Ximo Puig, President of the autonomous community of Valencia, said he was ‘a leading light in the Spanish kitchen and a New food and lifestyle scholar of the pan’. coming to Mallorca

HORSEMEAT could become part of the Spanish national diet. A recent study conducted by Lackiter Research Group (Spain), Mountain Livestock Institute (Spain) and Guelph Food Research Centre (Canada) identified the possibility of the meat containing higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to breeding conditions of the animals. It analysed the nutritional and environmental benefits of the meat, claiming

Vegan values festival

LEGEND: Galbis

Wine world MALLORCA’S movers and shakers have toasted the night away at an Albarino party. The wine extravaganza at Palma’s exclusive Royal Nautical Club brought together bon viveurs from all over the island. With Galicia’s favourite wine flowing and trays of favourites like tuna empanada and chunky mussels flying out the door, revellers raised a glass or three to Spain’s favourite white wine.

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VEGAN-FOOD lovers are set to get their tastebuds tickled at a new food festival. The Vegan Day Out on June 30 is a sizzling blend of street food, music and chilled-out vibes in picturesque Esporles. The children-friendly event will bring together the island’s independent stall traders as well as live performances by Ibiza DJs and other live acts. “Vegan Day Out started in Ibiza and this will be the first Vegan Festival in Mallorca,” organiser Scott Adams told the Olive Press. “We are focused on quality food, workshops and entertainment.” Vegan wines, craft-beer stalls, a spiritual area and a market will create the perfect summer vibe for Mallorca foodies. Workshops available on the day include cacao, raw cooking, ancient ceremonies, mantar and self-healing. There is also a children’s yoga workshop and an animal welfare group. Top vegan vendors from all over the island will be on hand at the festival.

that it is an alternative protein source which produces low greenhouse gas emissions compared with beef. DR Noelia Aldai, one of the authors of the report, said: “I don’t think we are far away from Spanish people accepting its consumption.” “It is true that in many countries horse is considered as a pet and its consumption causes some kind of negative feelings. But in essence, what is the difference between eating a foal or calf?”

Wine world FIFTEEN new Balearic wineries have become part of the local Denominacion de Origen. The announcement to integrate the bodegas into the DO Mallorca Pla and Levant was made at Mallorca’s Fira de Maig festival. It was also announced that the organisation’s Felanitx HQ is having a €320,000 refurbishment. The bodegas are Finca es Fangar, Bodegas Bordoy, Butxet viticultors, Cas Beato, Can Majoral, Pere Seda Vinyes i Bodegues, Vidauba, Vins Miquel Gelabert, Vins Toni Gelabert, Can Coleto, Miquel Oliver, Bodegas Vi Rei and Armero i Adrover Vinicultors.

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Crash out+TheolivepressEs GERAINT Thomas has pulled out of the Giro d’Italia with a crash. The Team Sky leader, who BE ‘APPY! trains in Mallorca, was in ninth place when he was involved in a pile-up involving a police bike. It was the first Grand Tour where Thomas had been designated the Team Sky leader. Thomas said: “Obviously it’s never nice to leave aDownload race early, our app now and especially when it’s your main begin enjoying goal of the season, but I have to the best Spanish news on the go. look at the bigger picture. “I’d love to continue, but I’ve CRUCIAL GOAL: Brandon Thomas been suffering since my crash.”

KING OF CLAY: Rafa looking The Olive Press good ahead of French TOP for news in Spain! Open

Brandon bags winner BRANDON Thomas bagged the only goal as Mallorca secured a crucial 1-0 win over Almeria in the Segunda Division. He scored his first goal in five months to secure the three points and boost Mallorca’s chances of avoiding the drop. The forward - whose father is English - scored his tenth goal of the season to leave Mallorca in 20th position on 42 points with three games go. “The goal was a liberation for me,” said Brandon. “I love to score winning goals and I am very happy.” Next up for Mallorca is a home game against Numancia on Sunday.

Nadal nails it

Rafa rocks to Madrid win ahead of French Open RAFAEL Nadal has stormed to his fifth Madrid Open win after overcoming Dominic Thiem 7-6 (10/8), 6-4. The Mallorca marvel’s record on his favoured clay is now 15 wins and no defeats after bagging titles in Monte Carlo and Barcelona in recent weeks.

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Nadal saw off ninth-ranked Thiem on his fourth match point after beating Novak Djokovic in the previous round. Nadal said: “To play here and win here means a lot to me. “I am always very nervous and emotional to play a final in Madrid.” Nadal won an hour-long first set in the tie-break with his fifth set point and broke Austrian Thiem in his opening PALMA authorities will name a service game bestreet after motorcycle rider Luis fore powering to Salom, who was killed last year. the victory. The Balearic Federation of Mo- The win leaves torcycling announced that the King of Clay Nadal road near the Palacio de Con- in fine form going gresos will be unveiled on June 1. into this month’s The road will also be the start- French Open, ing point for the inaugural Luis which he has won Salom Moto Tourist Memorial nine times. Route, which will finish at the The Madrid vicMonastery Lluc. Mallorquin Salom died while tory moves Nadal practising at the Catalan Grand above Roger Federer to fourth in Prix. the world rankings.

Salom honoured

A GIRL’S football team has made history after triumphing in a Spanish boys league. It comes after the girls of AEM Lleida felt they had no real competition so signed up for competition against their male counterparts. Two seasons later they got their hands on the winners' trophy, with top scorer Andrea Gomez netting 38 times. The team lost just once in 22 games. Sergio Gonzalez, the club's president, said: "A few parents called us crazy when we registered the team. If this had gone very wrong, we would have been held responsible

READY: Eugenie

Bouchard eyes up Mallorca EUGENIE Bouchard will play in this year’s Mallorca Open. The Canada number five seed will take part in the second edition of the tournament, which takes place from June 18-25. Wimbledon finalist Bouchard recently beat Maria Sharapova and Angelique Kerber in the Madrid Open. Bouchard is a grass-surface specialist and will warm up for this year’s Wimbledon tournament at the Mallorca event.

Girl Giggs power

HEATED: Ryan Giggs

pals kick off

TRIUMPHANT: The team

for humiliating the girls.” One boy said: "It’s hard to lose against girls, but these ones really are very good." AEM is now trying to raise €10,000 due to a lack of resources, which it says is acting as a ‘barrier’ to talent development.

FRIENDS of Ryan Giggs had to intervene following a row in Mallorca. The ex-Manchester United star and his pals got into an argument in a bar with a group of local men over a woman. It is believed a couple of men confronted the Welsh wizard while he was seen chatting to a brunette woman in a beachside bar. Friends of Giggs, who is currently going through a divorce with his wife Stacy, stepped in when the row got too heated.

Yachting

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High five PALMA has become the fifth biggest port in the world for repairing superyachts. Marta Iglesias, spokesperson for the Palma Superyacht Show, revealed Mallorca’s capital has leapt into the top five, with yacht companies around the world flocking to take advantage of the port’s nautical expertise. "The main shipyards that build ships, like Nautor Swan and Pendennis, have opened an office in Palma because they know here is where they can best carry out repairs,” said Iglesias.

MASSIVE: Palma port

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Superyacht that housed Obama, Springsteen and Hanks takes a bow A SUPERYACHT that Barack Obama once partied on has dropped anchor in Mallorca. The 454ft Rising Sun, the 11th largest recreational boat in the world, is owned by billionaire media mogul David Geffen and reportedly worth a cool €250 million. Ex-US president Obama joined buddies, guitarist Bruce Springsteen, actor Tom Hanks and TV host Oprah Winfrey for a recent break onboard the Rising Sun in French Polynesia. “What happens on the boat, stays on the boat,” chirped Winfrey upon her return. Hanks was a little more forthcoming, joking; ‘Look, imagine what it could’ve been like it, triple it. It was off the scale, fantastic’.

House of the Rising Sun

STAR GUESTS: Obamas and (top) Bruce and (below) Hanks

An Enigma docks THE billionaire owner of the Telegraph newspaper has brought his boat to Mallorca. Sir David Barclay’s €47.5 million superyacht The Enigma has docked in Palma. The 244-ft vessel, one of the world’s largest yachts, is thought to have put up for sale in 2016, but has not yet been sold. The Enigma has a cruising speed of 18 knots and a top speed of 35 knots.

Five storeys high, the mega yacht Rising Sun can hold 45 crew and 16 guests in eight cabins. It has its own basketball court which doubles as a helicopter pad as well as space for a private submarine. A wine cellar, private cinema and gymnasium are sure to keep guests entertained, and with a speed of 28 knots it’s certainly no slouch. The Rising Sun was custom built in 2004 by Lurssen Yachts and designed by Jon Bannenberg. Geffen, whose record label introduced Nirvana to the world, bought the yacht in 2010 from US businessman Larry Ellison, the fifth richest man in America.

Gone fishing THE Boat Radio crew have celebrated half a million downloads by broadcasting live from a classic fishing boat in Soller. The floating studio for Boat Radio LIVE was the Bonnie Lass, a Scottish-built vessel from 1949, which travelled around Port de Soller for the six-hour special. Former BBC radio presenter and producer Mike McDowall set up Boat Radio, broadcast on 105.4 fm in Mallorca, after moving to Soller in 2015. It has gone from strength to strength, with its podcasts now downloaded 10,000 times a day. “For 20 years, I’ve wanted to be Ray from Reef Radio – the guy in the 90s Bacardi ads,” Mike told the Olive Press. “He did a great, laid back radio show on an island somewhere. He was surrounded by colourful characters with fascinating lives. Well – now that’s me!” Boat Radio is the first radio station aimed at boating owners and enthusiasts from across the globe. Among its most popular shows, which are recorded around the world, are Matt Rutherford’s weekly broadcast from the Arctic, where he conducts research for NASA, and John Herlig’s fortnightly Postcards From Sea.

Boats, bikes and (mostly) fast cars…

T’S been one hell of a hectic month for someone like me who loves boats, bikes and, basically, anything fast! It all began with the Palma boat show, now in its 34th year, and well established as one of the top nautical extravaganzas in the Mediterranean, with visitor numbers topping 35,000 over the five days. As a busy exhibitor at the event, the show represented a fantastic opportunity for us and our industry colleagues to present our products and interact with buyers (and a few fender-kickers...), sellers, colleagues and friends. There is little question that the market has seen a significant turnaround in the last year, with a transformation from a buyer's to a seller’s market in certain areas. My company, Baxter Marine had a great show, displaying the offerings from Pearl Motor Yachts and finding ourselves in a position where, with second hand boats, we have more buyers than boats…

Cape to Cape I needed a few ideas for entertaining my US-based brother and Marseilles-based motorcycling journalist nephew who arrived a few weeks ago. And up popped the idea of riding a decent motorbike on the ‘Cape to Cape’ trip from Andratx to Formentor along the MA10 road that runs along the entire north coast of Mallorca. It is arguably one of the most picturesque routes on earth, let alone our small Mediterranean island. We rented the bikes from Rentabike - a brace of BMW 800GS - and spent nine hours touring the island, with plenty of

Showtime!

It’s been a tough month Ancient and Modern... for new Olive Press I am off this weekend to enjoy the Classic Car Club’s monthly shindig – with 40 plus columnist Hamish classic cars – organised by my rallying Goddard testing a Ferrari, chum Gordon Cox. It is always wonderful to be in the company of so many beautiful sitting on superyachts and valuable cars that are unlocked from garages all over the island. and riding around the I alas don’t have one and have rented an island on a BMW 800GS Austin Healey 3000 from Rent A Classic Car Mallorca, which will be fun.

Bipolar

stops for coffee and a longer lunch in Puerto Soller. Dodging the ubiquitous cyclists and distracted hire car drivers (oh so much easier on a motorcycle…), we also found time to stop by the Gorg Blau lakes on the roof of the island - a ‘little Switzerland’ in the Med. The magic continues all the way to Cap Formentor, with the final stretch to the Cape itself also engineered in 1932 by the same Italian, Antonio Parietti, responsible for the celebrated Sa Colobra road – and in much the same style. Our slightly numb bums and fingers eventually arrived back in Cala Major by 7.00PM. What a day.

The Healey will definitely differ from the Ferrari 458 Spyder that I drove this week. The Ferrari 458 is the last of the normally-aspirated two-seater prancing horses to be built by Maranello, as all supercar manufacturers – including Ferrari - embrace hybrid technology’s efficiency and power. It has made the free-breathing 458 an instant classic, now replaced by the turbodriven (although I suspect equally impressive) Ferrari 488. However, if you can find a good 458 and your eyes don’t water too much at what you might pay, it may look very cheap in a few years’ time… As for driving it? Truly intoxicating – and maybe even a little ‘bipolar’... Potter along to get the milk and it’s a relatively peaceful if firm ride. Open up and the world changes very fast indeed both aurally and visually. Throw in that smell of fine leather, that steering wheel straight off an F1 car and just give me an empty road. Shame there’s not too many here.

www.baxtermarine.com or call on 606375666 or 971676786

Olive Press Best Buy 2010 Fairline Targa 58 with 2 x Man 1200HP engines This yacht is a must see, absolutely immaculate, new teak, low hours and with a very impressive array of technology and high specification. She is currently on the market only because the experienced owner wishes to move up in size due to a growing family. A very modern styled interior and exterior coupled with a very high spec and build quality makes this yacht a very attractive day boat - or even an inter-island live-aboard cruiser.

€650,000.00 tax paid. Hamish Goddard has lived in Mallorca for two years – arriving as a yacht skipper in 2015. He works for Baxter Marine in Porto Portals in its new sailing yacht division. He previously worked in the UK in sports and retail market-

ing, working within Formula One, the Ryder Cup, the Olympic Games and yachting events.

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Maybe we should give the cyclists a break, writes Lesley Keith

AST week was the socalled ‘Ironman’ in Mallorca and two weeks before that was the ‘Mallorcan 312’. Just in case you live in a complete vacuum and have no idea what these actually entail they are two magnificent endurance races which are huge here in the north of the island. The Mallorcan 312 is a race for cyclists through the Tramuntana Mountains and, yes, they cover 312 kilometres. The winners completed it in just over 10 hours and the rules are if you haven’t finished it in 14 hours you aren’t counted… no pressure then. The Ironman is another humongous feat where you have to swim 2 km, cycle 100 km again through the mountains - and then run 20 km. The winners in this one made it in under 4.5 hours. How is this even possible? Who are these super humans and frankly could they make me feel any more like a blob? They actually went past the end of my road and I couldn’t even get up in time to see them go by! Whatever they’re on I wouldn’t mind a little bit please. Now I know that the lycra-ed cyclists generate a great deal of emotion on the island. Many a flagging conversa-

Columnists

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The ‘c’ word

May 25th - June 8th 2017 May 25th - June 8th 2017

Mallorca diaries

By Lesley Keith

Sundays took some getting used to here when I first arrived. It was what is laughingly called Winter and all the shops stayed shut on Sundays, even big ones like Eroski and Lidl. I actually quite liked this, a proper rest day which has long been lost in the UK. I have to admit though I did have to make emergency visits to the local Spar shop, which was the only thing open until I got my head around it.

Acceptance

Old and New: Braving the roads for centuries tion has been ruined by the ‘C’ word with rages and arguments going on into the early hours. Trust me alcohol and comments about cyclists do not mix. I think of it as lighting the blue touch paper, make sure you stand right back. Everyone has an opinion but whatever yours is you just have to admire their endurance. I drove to Sa Calobra on Saturday along the aptly named 15 km ‘Snake Pass’ – well actually my partner drove and I pretended we were re-filming

The Italian Job – and there they were, big groups of them doing a pretty good speed up steep hills… AND smiling! Whatever you say, that’s impressive. There have actually always been cyclists on this island for as long as there’s been bicycles and yes I moan as much as anyone when wedged behind them in my little El Pando but well I have to say it……WOW! These endurance events tend to take place at the weekends, usually a Sunday and quite early. I must be honest that

Then I discovered that you aren’t supposed to work on your car or wash it on the street and no noisy powertools are to be used either. I don’t know how strongly all this is enforced but I now have the perfect excuse not to wash my car! I think it’s great. While on the subject of cars, I’m still coming to grips with my own and learning the unwritten rules of the road here. One important rule seems to be never leave your handbrake on when parking which means someone can nudge you to get a little more space. My friend on the mainland calls this ‘The Spanish Kiss’, and with what I’ve seen here I think maybe we could step it up a gear and call it ‘The Mallorcan Snog’. Yet another reason to never buy a car with decent bodywork and by leaving it dirty a lot of scratches are hidden anyway. Something tells me El Pando would never survive a fully automated car wash anyway so best I don’t risk it...On a positive note it’s air conditioning is finally fixed, now it’s just the windscreen wipers! I’ll keep you posted!

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VEN knights of the realm (my ex-boss, as it happens) are at risk from the ‘Ikea Effect’. I refer to ex-Daily Express editor Sir Nicholas Lloyd, whose journalist wife Eve Pollard admits to many a marital meltdown while shopping in the Swedish Lego-for-adults store. “I never go with my husband without rowing ... about going there, parking, walking through the store trying to find everything and getting out again,” she says. I thought it was only the Flatpack Challenge that frayed tempers (psychologists have dubbed one piece The Divorcemaker because marriages are almost as likely to fall apart as the unit itself, during the tricky assembly process). But since my fella Dave and I lost our Ikea virginity in Jerez, I know where she’s coming from. Our own relationship is approaching the dreaded seven-year watershed and Dave wasn’t itching to go. But after a stop for coffee and brandy (only one chupito, officer) and the promise of a sherry lunch in El Puerto de Santa Maria, he was almost looking forward to it. Panic set in when we saw the sheer scale of the beast. Not quite as humongous as Ikea’s flagship store in Stockholm, the size of 10 American football fields, but getting there. It lured us in with free gifts – a stubby elf-sized pencil and a miniscule order sheet – then flicked us up into its gaping maw with its blue escalator tongue. Now I know what Jonah felt like when the whale swallowed him. Trapped! Passageways that look like escape routes merely recycle you deeper into the windowless maze. The one-way system might well have been designed on the large intestine of some mythical Norse monster, forcing you forward and counter-clockwise in what Ikea calls ‘the long, natural way’. Dave needed the loo and was gone aeons. “It’s miles away at the bloody end,” he panted, when I found him on the point of collapse in bedding.

You can get everything in the Swedish furniture store – including a quickie divorce writes Belinda Beckett

Some 10% of babies in Europe are conceived on an IKEA bed, but Dave wasn’t in the mood for love. As for copying down un-spellable Scandi names and coded numbers longer than Donald Trump’s bank balance onto a flimsy scrap of paper with a Lilliputian pencil ... even when balanced on the arm of a Sodderhamn sofa using a set of Imbjudande placemats to rest on, it’s a right pain in the butt. The cabinet I chose had no name or number tag and turned out to be a hybrid of three, requiring special instructions spewed out by a computer. There were reams of component parts and an ill-omened 13 types of screw. In the warehouse, a cardboard box city with aisles as wide as New York streets (and an equally scary standard of trolley driving), we were screwed. One part was out of stock! And the checkout lines were longer than the Gibraltar queue. Happily, Dave and I are still together, and so is the cabinet. But it was touch and go when we had to survive Ikea all over again in Málaga for the missing piece. It’s somewhat ironic that a store promising to ‘make a house into a home’ provides a shopping experience that’s a relationship wrecking ball waiting to swing. Of course, if you are contemplating divorce, it’s a fast track not unlike the Islamic way of doing things in some countries. Simply whisper the magic Swedish mantra into your partner’s ear: ‘Ikea, Ikea, Ikea.’

www.theolivepress.es and it’s goodbye from us...

Tweed king

CURVY: Competitors think big

MALLORCA storyteller Shirley Roberts has launched her latest island initiative. Humans Of Mallorca, a new Facebook page, sees Shirley hit the streets to uncover the real lives of Mallorquins, expats and tourists. Well-known Soller journalist Shirley, who appears regularly on Radio One’s Frank Leavers show, is finding people are happy to open up - often with remarkable personal tales. “I spoke to one woman who was instrumental in bringing Roman Abramovich to Chelsea,” she told the Olive Press. “Everybody loves to talk about themselves, and I am genuinely interested in people. And I can shut up for five minutes! “Before you know it they are letting you take their photograph.” Inspired by the hugely popular Humans of New York page, which has seen Barack Obama, Venus Williams reveal all, Shirley believes Mallorca’s bustling island life is perfect for its own version. If you see Shirley, camera in hand, get ready to tell your story.

STORYTELLER: Shirley

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Big is beautiful

HE’S married to the most stylish royal in the world, but King Felipe has revealed a secret fashion love of his own. Spain’s ruling monarch is a huge fan of Harris Tweed. The British brand is more closely associated with Highland country pads than the halls of Madrid’s Royal Palace or Palma’s Marivent.

Human touch

May 25th - June 8th 2017

BUXOM beauties are lining up for the Miss Curvys of the Balearics competition. The annual pageant is being held for the first time in Palma, with the oldest participant a 42-year-old woman. The hopefuls will take part in the competition on September 23, with 11 of the contestants taking part in a photoshoot last week. Contestants weigh from 70 to 137 kilos and will compete in a number of different events on the day. “My weight has been commented on by idiots,” said one contestant. “If my bum doesn’t match up to your standards, you don’t come into my plans.”

Shell shocked

IT was a ‘one in a million’ romance that ended in heartache. When an international appeal was launched to find rare snail Jeremy a mate, two would-be suitors - one from Mallorca - were dispatched to the UK. A rare genetic mutation means Nottingham-based Jeremy cannot mate with most females, whose shell spirals curl to the right in the opposite direction. “This snail is very rare. It’s a one in a million,” explained snail expert and professor Angus Davison in an appeal on BBC radio 4. After Davison’s appeal however, another ‘lefty’ snail from

Spurned snail’s worldwide search for love ends in bizarre Mallorca love triangle

Ipswich - called appropriately Lefty - and a Mallorca snail, Tomeu, were dispatched to the UK to try to help. Miguel Salom, who runs a snail farm and restaurant Sa Caragoelra near Binissalem, told the Olive Press how he found Tomeu.

“I was working on the farm and saw the snail. It is really hard to find a snail like that, and if I hadn’t known about the appeal he would have ended up in the restaurant,” he said. When both fellow ‘lefty’ snails arrived in the UK, Jeremy thought his luck was finally in. But tragically for lovelorn Jeremy it was not to be… for the jet setting pair only had eyes for each other, leaving Jeremy on the sidelines. Tomeu and Lefty have now

had their first offspring, producing some 170 baby snails, leaving poor Jeremy nursing a broken heart. Jeremy remains in his Nottingham home - but there may yet be a happy ending with Tomeu. “It would be fair to say they are getting on well, and have been ‘snail flirting’. No mating yet though,” Professor Davison told the Olive Press this week. “But we are hopeful this could be the start of a trans-Europe relationship.”

SINGING: For EU

Singing the Brexit blues A SPANISH anti-Brexit song which welcomes Brits to Mallorca has gone viral. El Primo Juan and Ismael Balotelli’s anthem, ‘DespaBrexit’, which has been viewed more than 200,000 times on Facebook, tells British people ‘you know how beautiful the beaches are in Spain’. The jaunty tune laments that post-Brexit ‘slowly bars and airports will be empty, all the smiles will already be lost’ but that ‘when you come to Mallorca you will always be welcome’. El Primo Juan said: “It is criticism from the perspective of the expats in Spain and it has had a great response with people taking it well.” The track was recorded on a mobile phone near the duo’s Manchester home.

Digital Surveillance Systems

Fawning over the Forn MANCHESTER City stars David Silva, Nolito and Sergio Aguero have scored a slap-up meal at one of Mallorca’s most famous restaurants. The City trio dined out at Palma’s Forn De Sant Joan, which has attracted other top sporting stars like Andy Murray, Rafa Nadal and Arsene Wenger. Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera is another of the famous faces who has recently eaten at the stylish restaurant in the heart of trendy La Llotja.

Ibiza Rocks (under the sheets) AS if you couldn’t guess, Ibiza has been named the most sex obsessed place in Spain. The hedonistic island scored a nine out of ten between the sheets in the survey by adult website Lazeeva. Categories it polled high in were Sexu-

ally Active (9.7%), Sex Toy Consumption (9.8%) and Swingers (9.2%) although it polled a disappointing 1.8% in Access to Contraception. Rio de Janeiro came top from the survey of 200 cities, with Ibiza ninth overall.

We are back on June 8. In the meantime visit our website www.theolivepress.es for daily stories... and send comment to newsdesk@theolivepress.es

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