What do the Mother of Dragons, Property Richard Branson, Conor McGregor and Pablo Iglesias have to do with Spanish property? FOREIGN AF Find out in FAIR our Property Magazine Voted inside BEST www.theol
ivepress.e
s
olive pres s
www.theolivep
ress.es
May 2018
Issue 20
MOVINGMay IN9th Denise Van - May 22nd 2018 been spott Outen has ed on the Cost hanging out after inves a del Sol ting in her first home here
SEE PAGE III
>>
DISNEY INSPIRA Thrones descendTION: As Game of s on Spain’s castles once magnifi the country more, we take a look cent ’s most enviable at fortresses historic
Brits make up the biggest foreig n market in and MalagSpain booming a is
M
alaga was one of the popular regions most ers last year, for foreign buy- last year was the highest number 2008’s crash. new figures revealed. have est More than percentageBrits still make up thesince ber one investme 460,000 sales largof the foreign tered in Spain 15%, nt, and the market at and Alicante rounding last year, with were regis- put with Brexit seemingl Canaries tionals accountin It comes as off investors. off saw sales y doing foreign figures by the top three. The numbers little to erties The total numberg for 13% of purchasena- Malaga compared shoot up by 11.15% Panorama was the fourth revealed revealed s. to the year in 2017 of propertie most popular Benahavis are Marbella, EsteponaProp- pre-2007 levels before, s bought area for foreign buyers lowing the by 10.4%. exceeding in the country, ‘most mature’ officially the hottest and a result Balearic Islands folmarkets and Internatioof Spain’s boomingAnd now, as as the num- from the longest-ru in Spain. Figures market, the nal Monetary nning in Marbella the showed the estate agent in country’s economic Fund has raised 2018 to 2.08% growth three towns - giving Spain forecast gest economic growth in the the stronEurozone.
PROPERTIES
SELLING FAS T AT THE SPANISH
ESTATE AGE NT!
Thinking
of
Selling? Get in touch with The Spani – the fastes sh Estate Agen t growing t agency on the Costa del Sol Phone us now on +34 951
FLIGHTS
m
per person from
€99
Tel: +34 971 794 132 Mobile: +34 639 702 411
expat paper in Spain (Free or paid for)
FREE
Vol. 2 Issue 29
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
SCAM ALERT www.balearic-helicopters.com
By Joe Wallen
A BRITISH travel organisation has spoken out to warn holidaymakers after reporting a surge in scams targeting tourists at Palma Airport. Swindles recorded by the Palma Airport Info (PAI) organisation include queue stallers at security and baggage carousel ‘bumpers’. The group drew attention to ten different scams in operation at the airport. Some, such as the ‘broken taxi meter’ or the ‘pickpocket’ will be familiar to holidaymakers across the world. Others, such as the ‘queue staller’ or the Free WiFi are relatively new. The ‘queue staller’ sees someone deliberately stall travellers from collecting their valuables at the other end of the security scanner by fumbling with their own items. By the time an individual passes through the body x-ray to collect their baggage, Untitled-1.pdf 1 16/06/2017 their 15:36
Espana 250, thespanishes Estepona 29680 . tateagent.co m
Email info@
It’s your move!
PLUS: Spain’s fabulous castles SEE PAGE 20
Brits have been warned about conmen increasingly operating in Palma Airport ahead of the peak holiday season
valuables have been swiped by an accomplice who was already through on the other side. Meanwhile, the free WiFi scam sees open networks become available to travellers passing through the airport. When these networks were used, tourists reported having their passwords and personal information stolen. Airport employees have also gone public this week with their complaints about an infestation of fleas, mosquitoes and cockroaches in the airport. Some employees even reported that they required ‘constant medical attention’ in order to deal with the bites inflicted. One employee working on one of the 20 counters dealing with transporting expats pets from the island to the UK and
Germany spoke to the Olive Press. “It is disgusting here and the counters are totally infested,” the airport worker, who asked to remain anonymous, said. “Not only will the airport lose its staff but it’s only going to get worse as it gets busier here and more people and their pets start arriving. “The airport needs to do something now or else it’s going to be a horrible summer.” AENA, the public body managing Palma Airport, told the Olive Press that they had taken steps to secure WiFi connections in the airport. A spokesperson also told us that a specialist company hired to deal with infestations in the airport deciphered that the fleas were actually mosquitoes and that they were currently being dealt with.
e Lions Threpub
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
516
905 • Properties urgently needed for • Tap into eager buyer our world Come and wide, award s discuss your • Dynamic, -winning Or visit our property with motivated marketing website at and profe www.thespa our friendly sales ssional sales consultants nishestateag at Avenida team ent.co
Avenida Rey Jaime 1, Santa Ponca, 0034 871Find 510 277out more on page XX 15
Best English Pub in Palma Great food Live Music Every Night from 12am Ave de Gabriel Roca 4, Palma
ARRESTED: Brandon McCahill and (right) Jay Brown
Firestarters FOUR Brits accused of starting a fire at a Mallorca hotel have been released on bail after appearing in court. A judge, who has confiscated their passports, ruled that they are banned from leaving the island
until they cough up €30,000 between them. A court official said after their closed hearing: “The head of the Palma Court of Investigation Number 12, acting as a duty court ordered the release on bail of the four people arrested over a fire in Magaluf. “The judge confiscated their passports and imposed a civil liability bond of €30,000 to be paid mutually. “If they pay the money they will have their passports returned to Continues on Page 2
SEE MORE IN THE RESTAURANT SECTION INSIDE
15
2
crime
www.theolivepress.es
Brexit hit SPANISH exports to the UK fell by 6% last year as uncertainty over Brexit caused the pound to retreat against the euro. Meanwhile Spanish exports to the EU rose by 8%.
Summoned ISRAEL has summoned the ambassador of Spain after it voted in favour of an investigation into the death of over 100 Palestinian protesters on the Gaza border at the UN Human Rights Council session.
Paula Neale cuffed after defrauding holidaymakers in Spain for years EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore
SERIAL expat fraudster Paula Neale who was first exposed by the Olive Press has finally been arrested in Spain. It comes after dozens of stories over the past FOUR years detailed how the British fraudster was cheating holidaymakers out of thousands through fake holiday rentals. Thanks to our tip-offs, authorities began Operation Neale in a bid to track her down. The 44-year-old was reportedly picked up in Burgos as she was getting into a stolen car yesterday. It comes after she just managed to evade police earlier this year
Caged at last! Voted BEST
expat paper in Spain
Mijas Costa 8 See page xx
FREE
27th 2018 Vol. 12 Issue 285 www.theolivepress.es February 14th - February
®
2018 27th 2017 February 28th 15th - February
February14th February
Sabinillas and Sabinillas ll about Manilva, Manilva, Duquesa and la Duquesa Puerto de
A
A
®
17 15 DAY OPEN EVERY
Puerto de la Duquesa,
Passion
®
® ®
www.theolivepress.es www.theolivepress.es ll about
Puerto de la Duquesa
OCEAN C@FÉ & BAR
B I S T R O
Banús
Seasoned conwoman Paula Neale ‘flees to France’ with cops in pursuit Estepona
Puerto de la Duquesa,
Marbella
Puerto Duquesa
28th 2017 27th 2018 - February - February 14th15th February February
www.barandcafegroup.com 1 11:31 23/02/2017 679702_DFS_SPANISH_BOX_AD_40x40_MIJAS_COSTA.indd Vol. Vol. 12 Issue 285
11 Issue 259
www.theolivepress.es www.theolivepress.es
Gone fishin’
Born to be wild
Sabinillas
Manilva’s laidback vibe is founded on fish and wine and that authentic flavour is still something to savour, writes Jed Neill
I
of tiny TS rock pools full British darting fish recall of old seaside holidays still while fishing boats compete with sunloungers beach. for space on the unlike your Manilva is quite average Costa resort. Duquesa maEven in swanky the history rina, you sense first health of a town whose Caesar. tourist was Julius into the And when you tuck speshellfish - Duquesa’s the locals ciality - you realiseabout fish. know something Manilva was In Roman times, like Gento garum (a paste, that was all tleman’s Relish, what Jerez rocky coves can practione of the many July and August, you have great rage inofRome) theoutside (inset) kids play on drying squids, while Indeed on many weekends sherry.and a good number is yourself… to to a shopping line of roots in fish saltcally have the beaches beaches include you to explore on. The town’s - and place Sights on Manilva’s deep the perfect runfind chiringuitos to eat still you ing owe NATURAL WONDERS: Chullera, of of tourists a handful remains another wild grasses and flowers seeatthe On one beach at Punta stillwhile the sea, into can del Sol. coves fringed with TS hidden craggy rugged coastline than Spain’s Costa of Manilva, a rock pools and divegroup of squids drying on a line. which is 16 of Manilva, on Page next to a draws Continues more to Cornwall’s protected natural beaches Duquesa main N340 sunbathe just one of the natural from the heavily commerthat lie below the But these are the attractive But the beaches are areas; beach-front Sabinillas, port-side unspoilt beaches, of golden lovers. Worlds away page to the half dozen of true haven for nature Mijas or Fuengirola, four kilometres broadly split into three Continues on next del Sol and some shallows coastal road. reserve. cialised sands of nearby rocky Manilva beaches on the Costa ecological as anAn eel in the wildDAY: and rare species of “These are some of the best Bish Witkowski, owner of local Castles being kept OF THE playas areCATCH explains here since snowy plovers, chameleons of the least known,” Endangered western the flora and fauna in renaissance estate agency. dune plants are amongwas created in 2011. Sabi_ink to be drawn the conservation zone are also beginning eagle-eyed tourists BRUNOS Unsurprisingly, RIA
the raw natural Chloe Glover discovers del Sol’s wild west beauty of the Costa
I
CLETO JOYE
• GREAT VALUE DESIGN & QUALITY
News IN BRIEF
Manilva magic suppleRENT A CAR
CAR RENTAL .COM
®
MÁLAGA - GIBRALTAR
- DUQUESA
Neumáticos Sabinillas DEL NEUMÁTICO
• ORQUIDEA FESTINA • LOTUS • ORIENT VICEROY • LUXENTER
LOS PROFESIONALES Katie
Contact
katie@breakingspain.com 616 686 732 951 273 696 www.breakingspain.com
MADE OFFERING TAILOR EX-PAT SOLUTIONS
Our annual Manilva ment AT PARKING CENTRAL: Edif. Boquerón C. Levante,AIRPORT MALAGA PUERTO DUQUESA 29692 Manilva, Spain
euros per year 650 tel: +34 952 891 415 fax: +34 952 891 461
www.brunoscar.com 952176557 Tel: info@brunoscar.com
www.brunosparking.com
info@brunosparking.com
to Spanish Plates Car Transfers / Registration NIE / Residencia Translations / Interpreting Utility Phonecalls much more!
C/Bolivia, 6, Sabinillas
& much, THE TYRE PROFESSIONALS
tel: 952 892 766
mob: 628 265 562
Tattooist Rich Price M (+34) 604 207 149 E richprice66@hotmail.com
Plaza Vicente 9A Manilva Espinel en Sabinillas
Cafe & Grill Bar - Sabinillas
JEWELLERY WATCHES PRESENTS REPAIR SHOP
Arcos, 47, Calle Duquesa de Sabinillas Tel: 952 897 207 Email: joyeriacleto@hotmail.com
Page 15
Travel special Publisher Jon Clarke’s postcard from Brazil
Page 36
EXCLUSIVE By Jed Neill
POLICE are in pursuit of seasoned expat fraudster Paula Neale who has fled to France following an Olive Press probe. Detectives contacted us following a tip off that the mother-of-two was staying in a hotel in Catalunya and preparing to cross the border this week. She had been staying at Hotel Figueres, near Girona, and asked to pay for the room using her ‘husband’s’ credit card. It comes after four years of investigation by the Olive Press has uncovered more than 30 victims of her rental scams undertaken in various false names.
Book with the coast’s most trusted transfer company
info@simply-shuttles.com Tel: 951 279 117 www.simply-shuttles.com
BORDER DRAMA
Ransacked
Neale, 43, took rental deposits for properties she didn’t own and allegedly ransacked properties she had rented before selling the stolen goods online. However, despite four stories her hotel and at least eight denuncias ON THE RUN: Paula and (above) Spain-France border and against her, she has yet to be hire car. They’re singling He refused to leave his hopicked up by police. me out! They claimed she had a long NEWS tel room or open the door to This is looking increasingly chequered track record of at her, setting off alarm bells for unlikely after a receptionist Freeze on scams and problems, and had that Paula Neale, who packed up and left the hotel confirmedplastic a third son, who was taken after repeatedly trying to raise had checked out on Tuesday into care. him. morning. The friend described her as an Neale’s speedy departure She had been planning to IN DENIAL: Guerrero ‘unfit mother who long discame as the Olive Press was cross into France with her two played erratic behaviour’. handing over details of varichildren, Nina, 12, and Oscar, On one occasion she even preous denuncias and victims to 14 and live in Bordeaux. Balcon wins big tended to be her daughter to room aboard! the Guardia Civil in Malaga. Staff at the hotel saidAllthe PROBE: Previous story in A detective confirmed they try and strike up a connection mess’ THE alleged lynchpin in was left in a ‘complete with her long-lost son. the Olive Press a hurry, with were ‘in a race against time’ Spain’s biggest ever political after she left inwithin an hour. to get an arrest warrant with arriving fraud claims he made SIX policeplan France to escape to LIBERTYHOME Catalan police. Her ducer’. previous confessions up. RRP 3,000€ One of her victims, Sara Belwas rumbled by her own pal, the Former Junta employment actor Anthony Webster, who But after meeting herto atdrive mont, says Interpol has been boss Francisco Guerrero in- ratted on Neale when he found hotel and agreeinghe said he notified but because the her to Bordeaux, sists he did not personally out her real identity. crimes were committed in felt ‘something wasn’t right’ scandal, ERE the from gain Press Spain, she must be charged Webster told the Olive you when she claimed her mother have that saw up to a billion euros this week that he had recently there. got that had suddenly died and that she embezzled over a decade. Family and friends back in befriended Neale online. Liberty needed to leave immediately. confirmed to OUR PRICE meanwhile, UK the He claims he only gave details He said she had promised and feeLing? He researched her online that she had made it across Seguros makes of the so-called ‘reptile fund’ help his acting career and Liberty that € stumbled upon our catalogue a better insurance film the border on Tuesday in a that he allegedly oversaw, she knew people in the experience. of stories. after police put considerable industry, claiming to be ‘a proto www.libertyexpatriates.es 10
NEWS
the olive press - October 16 - October 29 2014
www.theolivepress.es
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ashya thanks
BRITISH ambassador to Spain, Simon Manley, has thanked the Hospital Materno Infantil in Malaga for its treatment of Ashya King, on behalf of the British government.
Top stamps
SPECIAL edition stamps of King Felipe and Queen Letizia have been launched by postal service Correos. Showing official photographs of the Royal duo, they can be bought for €1.
www.theolivepress.es
suICELAND is the first to permarket in the world remove plastic packaging from its own-label products. EXCLUSIVE Customers of Overseas, By Jed Neill which stocks Iceland products in 20 shops across A SEASONED British fraudster will Spain and Portugal, has struck again. in the benefit from the five-year Paula Neale - exposed in two in plan to reduce plastics Olive Press four times dirty 1,400 products. Calling years - has brought heragain. the plastics a ‘scourge’ on tricks to the Costa del Sol has world, Iceland managing The rentals conwoman director Richard Walker snared a series of unsuspecther well said: “A truckload is entering foreigners through propermining our oceans every oiled ruse of sub-letting ute, causing untold damage ties. lost to our marine environment A number of victims haveafter – and ultimately humanitythe thousands in lost deposits, since we all depend on she took over a two-bedroom oceans for our survival.” apartment in Mijas. trays Tate’ Plastic ready meal folUsing the alias ‘Sharon apartwill be removed first, she rented the Riviera before lowed by frozen vegetable ment for three months, bags changing to a paper based material.
Pensioner, 70, complains of discrimination after being ordered to take down extension, despite neighbours all having the same
January 17th - January
A FINNISH grandmother ordered to demolish a nineyear-old extension has accused Estepona Town Hall of being 'racially motivated' and 'singling' her out. Terttu Balson, 70, has been involved in an ongoing six-
without the correct planning permission. Several other properties in the Seghers community have similar extensions without planning licences - including Balson's next door Spanish neighbour - but Balson is the
EXCLUSIVE By Rob Horgan
year legal battle with the town hall after they served her with a demolition order and fined her €24,300 in 2008 for building a loft extension
Strike four! Boozy trips
ONE in seven youngsters coming to Spain on holiday have admitted that they are drunk on the plane, according to a survey by website Jetcost. com.
Seasoned conwoman Paula Neale caught by the Olive Press a fourth time
Wasn’t me
Big Willy
MANCHESTER City goalkeeper Willy Caballero has told La Liga officials that he was approached by a match-fixing syndicate when playing for Malaga last year.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: Terttu’s ‘illegal’ extension and adjoining
Offer
A WANTED property fraudster has been tracked down to a luxury home in Benahavis, after an exclusive Olive Press investigation this month. According to neighbours in upmarket La Heredia urbanisation, Rebecca Wells, 37, has fled owing money to several businesses. Keen horserider Wells - who spent eight years posing as an estate agent - is now being sought by police, as reported in the Olive Press last issue, after four denuncias were posted against her. “She owes money to the butcher, restaurant and the baker, as well as for repairs to her car,” said one neighbour. An expat couple living opposite Wells’ house in the urbanisation reported that they saw her packing all the family’s possessions into a rental car on October 1 the day our expose came out. When the Olive Press visited a few days later, the house had clearly been abandoned and the family car - a black Chrysler - was apparently dumped outside. Meanwhile another
30th 2018
only resident facing court action. "It is completely discriminatory, I cannot help but think that it is not a coincidence that I have been chosen when I am the only foreigner living here," she told the Olive Press. Balson believed she had received planning permission when she contracted a Spanish architect Mario Jones in 2005. Now however, she feels that he did not do his job properly despite being paid €2,500 to take over the project and sort out the building licence. Jones, however, said he feels 'no guilt or responsibility and that Balson is to blame for the situation. He said: "I told her from the beginning that she wasn't allowed to build. Most people get away with it but she hasn't. "She is definitely being unfairly treated and I am not sure why. I hope that the town hall is not targeting her because she is foreign. "Maybe that sort of thing happened in the old days, but
5
DESPERATE: Balson and dogs
with so many foreigners living on the coast I don't think it happens now." Despite numerous attempts Estepona Town Hall did not answer any of our questions.
neighbour’s (right)
Still on-the-run DISAPPEARED: Wells and La Heredia, where she rented a home
former neighbour Frank Comyn, president of the Palmeras del Golf urbanisation in Benalmadena Costa, has
reported concern for her four children. Comyn, who lived opposite her for two years said: “The
kids barely went to school and rarely even came out to play. “She never mixed with the local community here and one day she was gone leaving an unpaid electricity bill.” The Olive Press has still been unable to contact Wells, over her defrauding of expats who paid rent on properties she did not own. Wells, aka Prior, allegedly took a series of deposits for homes which she did not own. If you have any information about Rebecca Wells, please contact newsdesk@theolivepress.es
YEar the locks she has preChristmas & NEw to change else moving in. Paying €1,700 from November she was vented anyone just the short in to February, Paula said her child and However,of time she was over Taken with for moving in a ride amount two disappointed black cat. our ex- this month, However, after reading Decem- couples arrived to stay. Russia had pose on Neale in early to “One couple from deposit of ber, Belmont quickly started prop- paid a two monthrental. They year’s investigate and found her to rent €1,400 for a Belmont told the erty being advertised were gutted,” through a variety of Facebook Olive Press. later an Enggroups. incred- “Then a few hours up, also with One had been shared an lish couple turned and having paid ible 4,000 times. able to a year’s lease unknown how Fortunately she was over a deposit.” It is total fell for the move fast and after coming many people in was in a scam, but her property and a terrible state with a stereo three toolkit also stolen. It tookgot to days to clean. “It has “When stop,” added Belmont. far she is this going to end?” So down has been unable to trackreward Neale, but has put up around notices in various vets Olive Calahonda. In 2017, theNeale’s Press twice exposed antics. But it has also emerged the that we exposed her using 2016 in name ‘Sharon Tate’ in numinland Malaga. A new UK did ber Paula had been using not answer our calls. UP UP AND AWAY IN
FREE
FaNtastiC DEals For
Fabulous food and entertainment including a 5* Christmas or New Years Eve Gala Dinner with fine wine
FOR GOLFERS includes 3 rounds of golf
WONDERFUL BENALMADENA.
SEE SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT ON P21-36 The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía
olive press
the
Let HiFX help you reach your destination. www.hifx.co.uk
Vol. 8 Issue 197
www.theolivepress.es
October 2- October
THE BEST PREPAID MOBILE PLANS ON THE MARKET! WWW.MASMOVIL.ES/EN
15 2014
Police probe alleged expat property fraudster who ‘took deposits homes she didn’t for own’
HUNTED: Rebecca Wells on her horse
EXCLUSIVE
Maddie: New sighting claim
VICTIMS are hunting an alleged property fraudster who Costa del Sol owinghas vanished from the EXCLUSIVE tens of thousands days as a holiday euros. of By Imogen Calderwood me around it andrental, but she showed The Guardia Civil convinced me to confirmed last night an 11-month contract. sign is investigating horse-owning it posits Page 11 “I want her caught expat Re- claim to rent properties that she has becca Wells after and punished,” he no clared. to. decias against her. receiving four denun- One victim, British Wells, a mother-of-two Briton Wells, 37, told the Olive Press:expat Raymond Paul, hampton, from Wolver“I accused of dupingalso known as Prior, is posit on renting a homeIost a €1,000 de- same trick appears to have repeated the people into paying at different properties she didn’t own. de- “She had actually only rented around the it for four A region over the last eight years. Facebook campaign has now been launched by the group, aiming to gather as many victims as possible. In the case of Paul, 60, from Yorkshire, he put down €500 as a deposit and €500 for the first month’s rent erty in La Cala at the propde Mijas in August. But after just three asked Paul and days Wells his wife to clear out ‘so an urgent energy certificate matter could be dealt with’. AN embattled animal “We were left in rescue the dark for centre owner has two days, and upon the place is ‘out of admitted discovered anotherreturning Kim control’. couple Halliwell (above) staying there, with has many of now agreed to allow our possessions an initial still inside,” 15 dogs and many he said. cats to leave her Mijas kennels, “We still haven’t following get some things managed to an Olive Press investigation. back, we are It comes after police absolutely furious also infiled a denuncia.” and have spected the site, following various denuncias When Paul set up from foran urgent mer staff. meeting with Wells to dis- After we told of the ‘terrible cuss what had happened, she conditions’ at Kim’s Animal failed to show. BLAZE: F1 legend Rescue, friends and Gachot (inset) However another loses yacht in fire couple in ers rallied around supporttheir early 20s also turned aim of cutting the with the up telling him they number of similar amount of had lost a animals by half. The Olive Press money. “Lots of her victims attended an worse situation than are in a emergency meeting, spoke with us, and various other centres who knows how and has are still to come many more found new volunteers. out of the We have now launched woodwork,” he added. an appeal to find homes Another victim who for the lost out animals. is Stuart Hall, 44, and his
It’s the pits! EXCLUSIVE
‘Animal centre needs rescuing’
A LUXURY yacht nus is owned by that burst into flames in Puerto Bertrand Gachot, ex-Formula One racing driver Bait can be revealed. The 51-year-old Frenchman, who raced for Jordan between 1989 and 1995, is the owner €2 million yacht Gilliana of the that blew up on Sunday morning.
Two crew members with serious burns were rushed to hospital, one to his hands and woman, 34, was treated another, a The 23-metre Princessfor smoke inhalation. yacht Gilliana costs €42,000-a-week to rent, via Diamovit Rentals. Exclusive A source said: “Gachot is very upset.” The driver was Grand Prix team famously thrown out of the Jordan the roundabout atfor spraying CS gas at a taxi driver ceived a two-monthHyde Park Corner, for which he on reHis race seat was prison stint. acher, making histemporarily filled by Michael SchumFormula One debut.
Continues on Page
5
See S.O.S Animal Page 6
Rescue on
UK TV Solutions Installations Troubleshooting •
663 303 932 / 675 033 474 info@alpusat.com www.alpusat.com
FLASHBACK: Wells’ scam revealed last issue
story names and (right) 2016 ALL CHANGE: Passport the authorities in Gibraltar, Paula keeps the owner, mother-of-three, the where she believes Sara Belmont, rumbled her money. Press how she scam. a fire- She told the Olive The 41-year-old owner, now was contacted by Neale through fighter from London, has an online rental website. brought in police and contacted
Puerto Marina **** Benalmadena, Spain Christmas 265€ New Year 295€
Iberostar **** Nova Sancti Petri, Spain Christmas 244€ New Year 285€
Isla Canela Golf **** Ayamonte, Spain Christmas 288€ New Year 389€
5 nights 23/12/14~28/12/14 for Christmas 5 nights 28/12/14~02/01/15 for New Year Prices are per person for 5 nights half board, twin room
GastoN GolF tours Tel: 952 936 803
Email: info@gastongolf.com www.gastongolf.com
in Andalucia and IT has the best caves in Malaga provsome of the best beaches ince. de Europa’ it is someKnown as ‘Balcon has been chosen as what fitting that Nerja destinations this year. one of the must visit has listed the reTravel site Tripadvisor 10 emerging worldwide sort among its top destinations. in Spain to be It is the only destination in Poland, Riga, in tipped, with Gdansk, in Croatia. Latvia and Rovinj,
link THE first ever ferry between Ireland and Spain by has been announced Brittany Ferries. The company presented to its new route from Cork northern Spain today. of It will begin at the end Cork April and will link two and Santander, with return trips per week. beIt is the first ever link tween the two countries.
in u Excess water consumption claim. case of water damage Panels u Windows and Solar breakages. u All Risk accidental damage (building and contents). service 24/7 u Repair assistance and a DIY service.
CHANGING FACES: Paula Neale fled to France
where??
Home Insurance benefits include:
ANTHONY’S TEL. 952 588 795
PAULA: Previous2 issue for 1 The Expat’s No.1 choice
Discover what more can do for you.
pressure on him. Guerrero is facing eight years in prison for embezzling €65 million of money from the €647 million emergency public fund that he managed between 1999 and 2008.
For an instant quote
The Olive Press – 170 x
256mm
Liberty Seguros
1,200
call 91 342 25 49 or go
17 January
Struggling
59€ fromstandard with single-vision lenses
ALVARO Morata has been left out of Spain’s World Cup team after a disappointing season at Chelsea. The defending champions will first play Switzerland first on June 3.
For all your insurance needs! Estepona
after we alerted authorities that she was hiding in Girona with The money had been set aside to support struggling Andalucian businesses. Instead, Guerrero allegedly awarded fake grants to companies registered in the names of more than 100 of his family members, friends and fellow PSOE politicians. His driver, Juan Francisco Trujillo - nicknamed the ‘co-
Fuengirola
A BRITISH man, age 41, has been arrested in Ibiza after police found more than two kilos of Ketamine, a drug used a horse tranquilizer, in his home. After fleeing for months, police have finally caught and arrested the alleged drug trafficker, who has a criminal record both in the UK and Spain.
952 581 561
fuengirola@ibexinsure.com • Pet • Home • Car • Health • Business • Travel • Marine • Holiday home
www.ibexinsure.com
CHASING CORRUPTION P6
Expat smuggler caught
952 887 125
estepona@ibexinsure.com
See our ad inside for details.
OLIVE PRESS – 70mm x 40mm FRONT COVER 14 February
Dumped
May 24th - June 6th 2018
her two children. The British mum managed to escape to France, where she
set up a new Tinder profile, describing herself as ‘not your typical English woman abroad’. The Guardia Civil said: “The detainee is suspected of vehicle theft, stealing car numberplates, falsifying public documents and fraud, namely four crimes of holiday rental fraud.” Neale hooked in victims by placing fake holiday rentals on Facebook and taking money from them over Paypal. Brit Sara Belmont, just one of more than a dozen victims we have spoken to, told the Olive Press earlier this year how two couples turned up within hours of each other to rent an apartment she owned in Riviera del Sol near Fuengirola after it is claimed Neale moved in as a tenant under the alias Sharon Tate. A source said Neale had been released on bail after appearing before a judge in a closed court hearing pending an ongoing criminal probe. The source said she had not been remanded in custody for the time being because of her young children.
Brits deny prank started blaze From front
them.” They had been marched into court after starting a hotel fire which caused more than €200,000 in damage. James Brown and Brandon McCahill, both 21, were accused of starting the fire by allegedly burning a sleeping pal’s feet using a lighter and aerosol can. Georgia James and Lauren Smith, both 19, were also taken to court. All four Brits claim they were outside smoking on the balcony when the fire began in one of the rooms. Seven tourists had to be rescued by firefighters after the blaze at the BH Mallorca Hotel broke out on Sunday night.The flames tore through two rooms as scores of tourists were forced to run for their lives. Footage taken by locals and holidaymakers showed thick black smoke billowing from one of the balconies as the flames engulfed one of the apartments. More than 100 tourists were evacuated.Several people had to be treated for smoke inhalation, including three police officers. McCahill, from County Durham, is a keen amateur footballer, while Brown studies business management at Northumbria university. They have not yet been charged with any crime as formal charges will be brought shortly before trial, as is the norm in Spain.
www.theolivepress.es
The Godfather in Ibiza ROBERT De Niro stopped by Ibiza to open his Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay for the season. The Hollywood legend owns the hotel with celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa and producer Meir Teper. “I love Ibiza, I love Spain and it's great to be here with you,” De Niro said as the owners and guests drank the sake that has become tradition at their openings. De Niro opened his first restaurant with chef Nobu more than 20 years ago in New York. The trio now have hotels in London, Sao Paulo, Las Vegas, Los Cabos, Mexico and Saudi Arabia among many others. They are set to have 15 hotels around the world by 2020.
ne ws
May 24th - June 6th 2018
3
Craig launches new cruise CRAIG David hosted the biggest party in Mallorca’s waters as he launch the Marella Explorer, the newest – and biggest – ship in the Marella Cruises fleet. The Marella Explorer could be seen glowing neon colours from around the Palma Bay while the
rock star performed his biggest hits including 7 Days for hundreds of guests on board. “I loved surprising the crowd, the atmosphere was electric,” David said after the party. “With my TS5 Pool Party at Ibiza Rocks kicking off from early July
this has been the perfect warmup to what is going to be a summer to remember in the Balearics,” he continued. The new ship features ten restaurants, ten bars, and ten new shows for entertaining its nearly 2,000 passengers.
The Don lives at last! After the unluckiest production in history, Terry Gilliam’s Don Quixote epic finally gets released
IN IBIZA: Robert de Niro
A BBC wedding IBIZA has hosted a colourful BBC Radio wedding, where Nick Grimshaw joined other hosts as Radio 1’s Annie Mac married DJ Thomas Bell, aka Toddla T. The Breakfast Show host enjoyed the sandy beaches, and joked about applying for the upcoming season of Love Island while in the Balarics. Grimshaw also enjoyed sailing around Formentera with friends while in town for the wedding.
WED: Mac and Bell
By Elisa Menendez
IT took three decades to get there… and the lives of two leading men. Now, Terry Gilliam’s film The Man Who Killed Don Quixote has finally hit the big screens. Appropriately dedicated to the memory of John Hurt and Jean Rochefort - who had both previously taken the role before disaster struck - it had its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival at the weekend. And true to form Monty Python director Gilliam almost didn’t make it after he had a stroke just two weeks before. But he was there proudly showing off his film alongside Pirates of the Caribbean star Jonathan Pryce and Star Wars actor Adam Driver. After securing financing for the movie 29 years ago, Gilliam was plagued with illness, the death of actors, flooded sets, lawsuits and insurance difficulties. So feted was the film, that in 2002 Gilliam released the documentary, Lost in La
Mancha, featuring Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis, which told the story of one of the abandoned versions. Even this time it almost had its release delayed after Gilliam became locked in a legal battle with former producer Paul Branco, who claimed his company owned the rights to the film. Loosely based on the celebrated Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, the 2018 comedy-adventure sees Driver play a cynical advertising director who gets
caught up in the delusions of an old shoe-maker, who believes he is Don Quixote. In what has infamously become one of the most troubled productions in movie history, Gilliam said the constant uphill struggle has been a blessing in disguise. “It’s not the film I set out to make, it’s a much better film,” insisted Gilliam. “The film I set out (to make) was just not a patch on what this film is. “It’s taken all those years of marinating in my life to get there.”
Far from Dyer DANNY Dyer's daughter Dani Mas might be one of the hottest new cast members of this summer's Love Island show filmed in Mallorca. Dani is rumoured to have signed up for this year's Love Island, against her father's wishes. Earlier this year Dani told the press she probably wouldn’t be signing up for the show, as it was ‘too intense’ for her. She also said her Eastenders star father has warned her of the damage having an on-screen romp can do to her future career.
CLÍNICA VETERINARIA Solicitors and Accountants who speak your language and understand your particular needs • Property Law • Inheritance • Business Accounting • Resident and Non Resident Tax Returns • Employment Law • Court Solicitors C/Miguel de los Santos Oliver, 10, local 3 07181 Palma Nova, Calvia Tel: 971 591 118 / 660 383 060 www.maricunningham.com Registered with the Law Society of the Islas Baleares and with the Law Society of Scotland
Professional cleaning and stain removal: Carpets Upholstery Mattresses Curtains Hard Floors Across the Island of Mallorca Fully qualified members of NCCA & IICRC For a no obligation quote call us now on 971 132 436 or 655 570 596 www.xtremeclean.es 10% discount Quote Code - OP18
BENDINAT
telf: 971 40 44 59 The ONLY ENGLISH VET We care for all the family Cuidamos a toda la familia Wir kümmern uns um die ganze Familie C/ Arquitecto Fransesc Casas, 17 07181 Calvia Mallorca
www.vet-bendinat.com
4
Ses Oliveres Duplex Penthouse Apartment Bendinat
www.theolivepress.es
May news May 24th - June 6th10th 2018- May 23rd 2018
4 Campaigners call for cruise passengers to pay daily tax By Gillian Keller
3 Beds ● 2 Baths ● 130 m²- Living ● Communal Pool ● €775.000 ● Ref: 16005
Nicely presented duplex apartment with roof terrace, offering 3 bedrooms with master en-suite, open plan lounge and dining room, with terrace overlooking the beautiful pool and landscaped gardens of this well maintained conveniently located Ses Oliveres development. For more information please contact Amanda J Butler www.mjcassociates.net, email: ajb@mjcassociates.net or tel: (+34)690075169.
MALLORQUIN activists have stepped up their opposition to ‘out of control’ tourism by demanding that the authorities introduce a daily tax on cruise ship passengers. The proposition follows the doubling of the existing tourism tax on May 1. The Fins Aqui Hem Arribat campaign group - comprising of local residents and environmental groups - say cruise passengers should now also pay a daily €5 docking fee. The group further demanded that there should be a two boat per day limit on cruise ships arriving in Palma and a Controlled Emission Zone (CZE) introduced around Mallorca. The CZE would require shipping companies to use more expensive but less environmentally damaging fuel. The protective zones already exist in other popular ship-
Choppy waters
UNDER FIRE: Cruise ships are a regular feature of Mallorca’s tourism model
ping areas, such as the Baltic Sea, North Sea and the English Channel. The island has already seen one protest against the cruise industry this year after
GOB-Mallorca, another environmental group, held an animated rally to mark the arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship. Protesters chanted anti-tour-
Bombs away
THREE explosives have been destroyed in the Balearics. An old mortar grenade was found in Cap Blanc near Llucmajor. The fuse was gone but the explosives inside were intact and blown up where it was found, safe from people and buildings. Two more ancient explosives were found in
Ibiza, one in Sa Coma and the other Cala Conta. Both active bombs were inspected and detonated where they were found. The Guardia Civil have given a warning to anyone who finds a dangerous device such as old bombs and grenades to never touch them and notify emergency services right away.
ism slogans and held banners as holidaymakers disembarked from the Symphony of the Seas vessel, which can carry 6,680 passengers. Organisers expressed concern over environmental damage that was being inflicted by large cruise ships, highlighting that Symphony uses the same amount of energy in three days that Palma Airport does in one year. The Balearic Islands has welcome 45 cruises in the first three months of this year, a remarkable 80% increase on the same quarter in 2017.
Grave date PAUL O’Grady has revealed he has been exorcising the ghost of Cilla Black three years after she died in her Costa del Sol home. The 62-year-old said he had been trying to reach his best pal after her ‘frequent visits from beyond the grave’. Having enrolled in a new course that focuses on the supernatural activity, he said: “I've been exorcising ghosts. I've actually been exorcising our Cilla!” He said the late Blind Date host will not be visiting him anymore, but added he was glad he did it. “I was very conscious so I'm glad 2018_Layout 16/04/2018 14:57 Page 1 I've doneOlive it. IPress actually loved1doing the exorcising ghosts thing. It was a thrill.” Black died in her Estepona home after suffering a stroke and hitting her head. PALS: Paul and Cilla
Pioneers & experts in Spanish off-plan property claims according to banks liabilities – under ley 57/1968 NO WIN NO FEE Contact us now for a free appraisal of your case
SPAIN Calle Regino Martínez 30, 3º, 11201 Algeciras, Cádiz, Spain Tel. +34 956 092 687 | Fax. +34 956 092 697
Sports drinks & music OPEN 5.30pm to 4am every day!
web@costaluzlawyers.es www.costaluzlawyers.es
Carrer de Mestral, 4 Puerto Pollença We are next door to Burger King!
Sundays
10am Sung Eucharist followed by refreshments
Thursdays
12.30pm Said Eucharist
Wednesdays 11am-1.30pm Coffee Morning
UNITED KINGDOM Unit 2, Cochran Close, Crownhill Industry, Milton Keynes, MK8 0AJ, United Kingdom Facebook: costaluzlawyers Twitter: costaluzlawyers
Welcome to St. Andrew’s
~ homemade cakes & soups
You are most welcome!
Bar Molly Malone – C/ Monsenor Palmer 5, Palma
Chaplain: (+34) 971 866 689
www.anglicanchurchmallorca.org
www.theolivepress.es
ne ws
May 10th - May 23rd 2018
5
May 24th - June 6th 2018
5
6
F e at u r e
www.theolivepress.es Mallorca’s original community newspaper
May 24th - June 6th 2018
HOTSPOT: Revellers fill the streets in Magaluf
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 Airport anxiety PALMA’s Airport has really come in for some stick this month. Not only reports that scams taking place there are increasing at a concerning level but also the fact that check in desks are reportedly ‘infested’. The authority in the airport which also transports disabled passengers, PMI, has also said that it has had enough of being called to deal with drunken tourists arriving at the facility. To us at the Mallorca Olive Press, the team at Palma do a fantastic job - it is after all the third busiest airport in the whole of Spain, after both Barcelona and Madrid. Both Barcelona and Madrid are much larger airports and based in global cities. Perhaps Palma airport just needs a little love? With the recent doubling of Mallorca’s controversial tourist tax, surely a bit of the money could be spent on a deep clean of check in desks and hiring some private security to protect tourists? At the end of the day, while tourist numbers on the island may be a little out of control during high season, much of the island depends on the income it gathers from tourism. The last thing the authorities want is to put off tourists from returning to the island because of a negative experience before their holiday has truly begun! Publisher/ Editor
Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Designer James Partington design@theolivepress.es
Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: (+34) 665 798 618 Gillian Keller gillian@theolivepress.es Joe Wallen joe@theolivepress.es Laurence Dollimore laurence@theolivepress.es SALES: sales@theolivepress.es Charles Bamber 0034 661 452 180 Charles@theolivepress.es
ADMIN
Maria Angeles Vázquez (+34) 951 273 575 admin@theolivepress.es Office manager Héctor Santaella (+34) 658 750 424 accounts@theolivepress.es
Depòsito Legal PM: 610-2017
Head office
Carretera Nacional 340, km 144.5 Calle Espinosa 1 Edificio centro comercial El Duque, planta primera, 29692 San Luis de Sabinilla, Manilva
AWARDS
2016/2017 Best expat paper in Spain and the second best in the world. The Expat Survey Consumer Awards.
2012 - 2017
Named the best English language publication in Andalucia by the Rough Guides group.
The madness
Joe Wallen investigates whether the island’s infamous party resort of Magaluf has changed its ways ahead of the busy summer season
T
HE notorious party resort of Magaluf has been rocked by two deaths in the last month. Both Aaron Henderson, 30, and Natalie Cormack, 19, passed away in the popular destination, despite claims from the local authorities that they have ‘cleaned up’ the resort. Father-of-four Henderson, from Northern Ireland, was on holiday with his girlfriend when he was allegedly beaten to death by Mulligan’s bar manager Paul Waugh, 35. Cormack, from Scotland, had returned home after working at the Three Lions bar on the strip when she realised she did not have the keys to her apartment. Spanish police confirmed that she entered her friend’s apartment and attempted to gain access to her flat by climbing over the balconies at the Eden Rock de Torrenova block. She lost her footing and fell to her death below. Cormack had drunk heavily while at work, a friend working at the neighbouring Red Lion pub on the strip told the Mallorca Olive Press. The two deaths have shocked workers and holidaymakers, particularly as they have come well before what is considered ‘high season’ - July and August - for such incidents. Worse, they come just months after the island and Calvia town hall committed to clamp down on excessive drunken behaviour in Magaluf. The Mayor of Calvia, Alfonso Rodriguez Badal, had published a list of 64 things tourists could be fined for while in the resort. These include abusive language, nakedness in the street and fighting. Authorities also ruled that pub crawls could only be permitted between 8pm and midnight, with a weeks notice given to the authorities and involving a maximum of 20 people. Evidently these rules to crack down on loutish and out of control behaviour, for the safety of mostly British and Irish tourists,
PARTY TIME: Holidaymakers start the mischief at any hour
TRAGIC: Natalie Cormack fell to her death are not working. During a day in the resort, last week, I was offered drugs frequently and in open daylight, as well as sex - by groups of Nigerian prostitutes, plying their trade on the strip. On top of this there are the disgraceful and regularly reported recent muggings of drunk tourists - and continuing bar crawls and booze cruises, both clearly in excess of 20 participants. “We went on a bar crawl last night,” confided Gemma Timiss, from Bolton, holidaying in the resort for her third time with a friend. “Our big group went all the way down the strip and it was very obvious what we were doing. “A local police car came past and the bar
we were in simply turned down the music and told us to take our t-shirts off. “As soon as they drove past, the music and the t-shirts went back on and the party continued.” Her friend Amelia shook her head. “We also went on a booze cruise while we were here,” she continued.. “They packed around 240 of us onto the boat so we couldn’t move and people were falling overboard. REALLY?!!! “They only had two bouncers on the whole boat to control everyone - just two, can you believe that! “We came in a group of six but the rest of the girls have gone home and we won’t be coming back. “They just didn’t feel safe here, they let anyone into the bars here that they wouldn’t at home. “People who are throwing up or who can’t even stand up. “The bars here pour alcohol down your throat until you can’t stand, it’s laughable to think the authorities are making this place any safer. “Never again.” The girls were not alone in their concerns. Another pair of party-goers who were in the resort for the Mallorca Beach Rugby tournament in Magaluf told the Mallorca Olive Press that they had seen a group
www.theolivepress.es
F e at u r e
May 24th - June 6th 2018
Olive Press can be read in its entirety on www.theolivepress.es And our site is updated daily with the latest news, making it one of Spain’s most visited news websites.
7
olive press online
GONE: Girl collapses on friend and (right) fancy dress lads
October 2015
Page views:xxxxxxxxx
Visitors: xxxxxxxx Mallorca’s best English daily news website
Most read this
The top stories on the Olive fortnight on Press website this fortnight Mos t read stor www.theolivepress.es ies
Most read stories
Costa del Sol on weather alert
1
with dropping temperatures and - Victim of Marbella drive-by cocaine morewas rain -Costa 4616 views
king and owed Colombian drug cartels millions (19,357) VIDEO: Floods hit Costa del Sol as heavy rain continues - 4604 -BREAKING: Man shot dead in drive-by shootviews(7,511) ing in Marbella
2 3 4 5
- FOUND: Most handsome police officer in Gangsters’ paradise: A look at
Spain finally revealed (2,360) the key figures past and present of the Costa Crimedel - 3872 - WATCH: Huge shark spotted ondelCosta Solviews
continues!
beach (2,149) Torremolinos to open Anda-Meet the family running southern Spain’s lucia’s biggest shopping and leisure newest drug cartel as Cadiz centre - 3122cops viewsfear
Escobar-style takeover (2,061)
Gibraltar schoolgirl reaches semi Page Views:237,408 -final of Spanish TV talent show Visitors: 204,327 3065 views
Figures shown from May 8 - May 22
SOCIALMEDIA OlivePressNewspaper olivepress olivepressnews
ON PATROL: Police hit the streets and (right) blonde reveller strikes a pose
+TheolivepressEs
BE ‘APPY!
We use recycled paper
Reuse Reduce Recycle
Download our app now and begin enjoying the best Spanish news on the go.
of so-called prostitutes viciously attacking “The hotel bar would serve them drink a man near the Pizza Hunt restaurant - a after drink every night until they couldn’t popular pit stop for revellers after a hard speak, like it was funny,” she told me. day’s drinking. “I couldn’t believe it when I returned home “We saw the man stagger home and the to my room - I am travelling by myself after group followed him and cornered him by the all - and they were all there waiting for me. bushes over there,” pointed one. “I can only presume they knew my room “They acted with complete disregard for number as they overheard when I checkedwhat could happen to them, like they knew in. their actions would have no consequences. “The whole atmosphere here facilitates this “The man appeared to rekind of behaviour, I comfuse their offer of services plained to my hotel and they so they mugged him instead, just brushed it off as ‘lads it was too easy.” on holiday’ type behaviour.” “This is f***ing The resort of Magaluf is baThere have been numerous complaints of gangs of these sically geared towards this Magaluf mate! women operating on the cheap, alcohol-fuelled, no Punta Ballena strip and its It’s never going to repercussion behaviour. surroundings late at night. Maria Jimenez*, runs a 24 change!” Typically, the gangs operate hour tobacco and alcohol after midnight and attempt shop near to the famous to entice solo male tourists, Linekers bar not far from too drunk to get themselves Punta Ballena. home safely. She believes that while security needs to Often the reveller will be too drunk to rebe increased in the resort, many tourists member details or the appearances of the wrongly complain about their experiences in criminals in the morning, but some have reMagaluf when they know what type of holiported to waking up hundreds of euros out day it is going to be. of pocket. “If you don’t want a boozy, in your face type Another British tourist told me she was of holiday, why are you coming here?,” she shocked to find a group of lads blocking the asks. way into her room when she returned home “A lot of the Spanish complain about Magaone night. luf too, but this was such a poor area before
this ‘madness’ came here. “Sure, we can go back to the old days but people will live in poverty again, it is what it is.” A Spanish businessman, who owns three restaurants in Palma Nova and Magaluf and agreed to speak to the Mallorca Olive Press on a condition of anonymity, slammed the authorities for saying one thing but effectively turning a blind eye. “I’ve been here for 30 years and I think it is the worst government we have had in recent times in Magaluf,” he said, frustrated. “There are more problems than ever and they only worry about raising money, they do not care about the entrepreneurs. “There are too many robberies and ‘prostitutes’ acting with aggression going on in the resort these days. “If we continue at this pace and with a government like we do not, we will have a very dark future.” Clearly in order to provide a safer, more ‘family-friendly’ experience Magaluf has a long way to go. As I bid the hedonistic resort goodbye and head back to Palma, I pose the question to a group of PR boys working for Mambos Terrace in Magaluf - will the resort change and become more family friendly? “This is f****** Magaluf mate,” one bleary eyed employee shouted back. “It’s never gonna’ change!”
Updated daily The Olive Press online www.theolivepress.es The website is conveniently accessible from your desktop computer to your laptop, tablets and smartphones throughout the day wherever you are. The Olive Press www.theolivepress.es TOP for news in Spain!
Useful numbers Emergencies
Ambulance/ Fire brigade/ Police 112
Transport Railway Line Palma-Inca / Palma-Manacor – 971.177.777 Buses in Majorca – 971.177.777 Railway Line Palma-Soller – 902.364.711 Airport information – 971.789.000 Road Traffic Information – 900.123.505
Taxi’s Radio Taxi 971.20.12.12 Taxi Palma – 971.40.14.14 Taxis Cales de Mallorca – 971 83 32 72 Taxis Manacor – 971 55 18 88 Taxis Porto Cristo – 971 82 09 83 Taxis s’Illot – 971 81 00 14 Taxi with disabled access – 608 537 194, 619 342 979, 609 717 424
8
www.theolivepress.es
Cut it out! THE UK government has released a video warning British holidaymakers about the dangers of drunk and disorderly behaviour on hotel balconies. The clip warns that you are not only going to ‘ruin a holiday… you are going to ruin your life’. The film was made after research revealed that more Britons are hurt jumping between balconies than any other nationality. “The typical story is a guy, probably 19, 20 years old that has come here with some friends and they are having fun, they are drinking maybe a bit more than usual and they get into a fight or they take risky behaviours like climbing from one balcony to another or jumping into a pool,” a local surgeon says in the film. “Normally, the most frequent accident is going to be a spine injury, and even more severe, a neck or head trauma.” Two young Brits have already died after tragically falling from balconies in Mallorca this year. Natalie Cormack, 19, from North Ayrshire in Scotland, died after plunging from the seventh floor of a Magaluf building while James Walton, 23, from London fell to his death in Palma, after celebrating St Patrick’s Day with his friends.
news
May 24th - June 6th 2018
‘I never said that’ LOOSE LIPS: Tolo
Airport staff have had enough of dealing with drunken travellers By Joe Wallen
A SPANISH organisation which is meant to transport those with reduced mobility at Palma Airport has said it has had enough of dealing with drunk tourists. Their complaint has come after they were forced to help a paralytic tourist - believed to be British - stand up after he arrived off a flight. PMR say responding to such incidents places their staff in potential danger. “When a passenger arrives in this state, airline firms call PMR to ask us to sort out the problem, disguising the service as a ‘medical emergency,” the firm said. “They do so with the tacit approval of Spanish airports au-
TOLO Cursach has denied insulting the judge formerly investigating his case. Judge Manuel Penalva alleges that Cursach called him ‘subnormal’ on three separate occasions and that this was overheard by two other officials. Cursach said he did not insult Penalva and that
Enough is enough
LEGLESS: Drunk Brit after flight to Palma
The most magical place right now Bookings: www.hotelmama.es +34 871 037 437
the word is not in his ‘usual vocabulary’. Penalva was replaced in the investigation by Judge Miquel Florit after it was ruled that he had lost his impartiality. Penalva was found to have sent a Whatsapp message to one of the key witnesses in the case, stating ‘let’s end these sons of b******’.
thority AENA. “As workers we’re fed up of taking on this risk.” The group called on airlines and AENA to take more responsibility over drunken passengers and limit the amount travellers can drink before arrival. “I’ve seen people arrive in such a state that if you’d told me they were dead i’d believe you,” union representative Jairo Fernandez told a local TV station. “People who couldn’t stand up and had wet themselves and could have consumed anything and everything. “All the airlines are interested in is getting them off the plane
as quickly as possible so they can get it cleaned and refuelled and turned round as quickly as possible. “It’s not our job to be doing this sort of thing. “There are doctors, security people, police and Guardia Civil, staff from AENA and the airline firms.” In a video of this most recent incident PMR staff can be seen helping the man off the plane who is so drunk he cannot use his own legs. At one point the passenger collapses while a staff member can be heard questioning, ‘What on earth has this man drunk? I just can’t believe it’.
LOCKED UP: Valtonyc
Rapper’s revenge A MALLORQUIN rapper sentenced to three and a half years in prison has been videoed asking concert goers to ‘kill’ a Guardia Civil officer and ‘bomb’ a prosecutor. Sa Pobla-born Valtonyc, real name Jose Miguel Arenas Beltran, was found guilty of slandering the monarchy and glorifying terrorism through his lyrics in an April court ruling. The latest unseen footage to emerge is believed to be from a gig in Marinaleda, a small town near to Sevilla, in March this year. The footage was shared widely on social media and shows the rapper saying ‘kill a f****** Guardia Civil officer and ‘give a f****** bomb to the prosecutor’. Valtonyc appealed his initial sentencing but had the judgement upheld by the courts, who have requested he hand himself in before May 25. Jorge Campos, the head of the Actua Baleares party, said the new footage demonstrates the urgent need to jail Valtonyc.
news
9
www.theolivepress.es
FAFFING JOKE Pressure mounts on Junta boss as probe, linked to ERE scandal, finds millions of public money was spent on golf and strip clubs
JUNTA leader Susana Diaz has come under attack after it emerged millions of euros was squandered on strip clubs and golfing for executives as recently as seven years ago. The so-called FAFFE quango (the Andalucian Fund for Training and Employment), spent more than €3.1 million on hotels and entertainment between 2008 and 2011. The money, which went through various travel agents and golf clubs, was spent by political leaders to curry favour with contacts and friends. According to the Guardia Civil, the public-funded body, set up by the PSOE-led Junta, was meant to be spent on battling unemployment. However, much of the money was squandered on luxurious trips, including €20,000 at the 18-hole La Cañada Golf Club, in upmarket Sotogrande.
It also spent €4,229 at the Club de Campo de Granada, another exclusive resort. Former employment minister Fernando Villen meanwhile spent thousands on dining out in fancy restaurants, as well as nights at the Don Angelo ‘exotic’ strip club in Sevilla. Thousands of euros from the slush fund were also made available to companies owned by relatives of Junta leaders. On many occasions they overcharged for jobs and business trips unrelated to their line of work One plumbing company, Inmohel, owned by the brotherin-law of the FAFFE director charged the fund €700,000 in one year for catering, courier services and waste collection. The secretary general of the PP in Andalucia, Loles Lopez, insists that Junta boss Susana Díaz (above) ‘can no longer re-
main silent’, as she was very much involved in the Junta during this time. “The longer she is silent, the worse it will become," she said. Lopez said that the FAFFE scandal ‘is an example of the lack of respect the PSOE in Andalucia has for justice, institutions and Andalucians.” She added: “They used money meant for Andalucians on parties, fairs and strip clubs.” She went on to blast the ‘excuses’ of Diaz, who when commenting on previous scandals like ERE said ‘they happened ten years ago.’ “No one is buying that,” added Lopez, “It is clear that Susana Díaz has a lot to hide and that's why she does not want to talk... every day she keeps her silence it makes us more suspicious.”
Migrant mortality up THE death rate among undocumented migrants in Spain has risen 15% since reforms denied them access to free public healthcare. Migrants were excluded from access to public healthcare following a reform introduced by the Spanish government in 2012. According to research by the University of Barcelona’s Economics Institute and the University Pompeu Fabra’s Center for Research in Health and Economics (CRES), it has had a direct impact on mortality rates in the population residing in Spain between 2009 and 2015 compared to the previous period from 2009 to 2012. An additional 70 deaths per year were registered among undocumented migrants since the law was approved in 2012. The reforms were introduced by the conservative government led by the Partido Popular.
UPGRADES: For Tramuntana range
Safer mountains THE Tramuntana mountains have just become a bit safer for hikers as 13 new signs have been placed in ‘complicated’ areas. The signs are along hiking routes where the trails get trickier or more dangerous, and where many past rescues have occurred. “We have identified and posted signs at thirteen points in the Torrent de Mortitx, the Torrent de Pareis and the Puig Massanella and we understand that from now on people will be more oriented and the number of rescues will be reduced,” said Minister of Finance and Public Administration Catalina Cladera. The numbered signs clearly map their location, and will help lost or injured hikers inform rescuers of their location. The Ministry of Land have also made the roads safer by adding over 15,000 metres of wooden barriers on the Ma-10 and Ma-2141 roads, between Sóller and Sa Calobra. Old metal barriers have been replaced by wooden guard rails enforced with steel, which are safer for both drivers and cyclists in the mountains. About 1,000 metres of the railing is covering areas previously unprotected.
New Catalunya tensions TENSION is rising again in Catalunya after Mariano Rajoy rejected the region’s newly appointed ministers. Spain’s Prime Minister said he hopes the region will soon form a ‘viable’ government that obeys the law and works toward ‘restoring a normal political situation’. Although the government recognises the powers of new separatist leader Quim Torra, it refused to approve his chosen ministers who are former advisors of ex-leader Carles Puigdemont.
Four of the appointed ministers are either being held in custody in Madrid or are living in self-imposed exile in Belgium, facing charges related to the independence referendum. Once the government is formed and cabinet ministers are appointed, Madrid must end the direct rule it imposed on Catalunya following the referendum in October. Torra describes himself as the ‘interim head’ of the government as he believes Puigdemont is the true leader.
May 24th - June 6th 2018
9
10
www.theolivepress.es
10
www.theolivepress.es
g reen May 24th - June 6th10th 2018- May 23rd 2018 May
Mallorcan man o’ war PORTUGUESE man o' war jellyfish have appeared on beaches near Palma as beach goers and surfers are on high alert. The man o' war found on Molinar’s beach are one of the more dangerous jellyfish, with tentacles growing up to ten metres long and causing se-
Plastic bags will have to be paid for until they are banned under new regulations By Gillian Keller
PLASTIC bags at shops and stores will no longer be free from July 1. Customers will be paying for every single plastic bag they use, not just the big ones at checkout. Plastic bags come in different weights, and the 'very light' bags are usually free, such as the small bags used in the fruit and vegetable section or that
vere pain when in contact with people, sometimes deadly. The same species of jellyfish washed up in Alicante just days before, closing beaches for safety. Officials have been spotted dragging the sea with nets to try to clear the jelly fish away from the shores.
IN PALMA: Lethal ‘jellyfish’
Paying for plastics the butcher puts meat in. The next level of bags are 'light ' - usually the free thin bags at grocery stores and so-called Chinese shops. Since these two types of bags are rarely reused or recycled they will now cost a few pennies to discourage their use and weight.
It is a temporary measure because in 2021 the bags will be banned unless they are compostable. While many people have applauded the effort to become more green, some consumers are wondering why they will be charged when there is no other ‘greener’ option given.
Studying Xylella for the future
Moving storage packing shipping *Regular UK service since 1973*
Over 25,000 petition Med-Salt 2 project All European destinations served worldwide shipping door to door free storage available Local moving service, Container storage from €9 per week Free estimate phone 971 707 631 or 601 062 619 UK 0044 1202 576 514 Email: spain@whiteandcompany.co.uk www.whiteandcompany.co.uk
Professional Company
Personal Service
MAR Blava have had over 25,000 people registered to protest against the Med-Salt 2 acoustic sounding project from all corners of Spain. Mar Blava is an alliance with the aim of protecting the Mediterranean sea, with members including government officials and politicians. As reported in the last Olive Press issue, the Med-Salt 2 project uses high powered airguns to learn more about massive layer of salt below the sea, and why the Mediterranean dried up millions of years ago. Strong protests come mainly from the damage the guns to the environment, mainly deafening and harming the
local whales and dolphins. Others are worried about the oil industry and their interest in the results. Mar Blava are demanding the public information portion of the project be restarted, as the length of the original was shorter than the law requires. In the Balearics, Ibiza has had over 13,000 people sign an official claim against the project, over 6,000 in Menorca, while a shockingly low 5,000 citizens from Mallorca have signed on so far. To learn more visit alianzamarblava. org.
TWO greenhouses have been set up by the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture to study the Xylella virus, known as the 'Olive Ebola' that is plaguing Balearic trees. The biosecurity greenhouses will study the disease on 17 varieties of almond trees, 19 grape vines and 29 types of olive tree, as well as some pine, juniper and oak species. The aim is to find the plants that are the most resistant to the Xylella virus, and be proactive in protecting the future of agriculture on the islands. Minister of Environment Vicenç Vidal said, "to be able to live with the Xylella you have to know which varieties have greatest resistance." He added that "with this knowledge we will know which varieties can be replanted and which ones will offer resistance".
War on wet wipes SPAIN is waging war on wet wipes … or, rather, the practice of flushing them down the loo. A call by the Grupo Parlamentario Vasco to halt to the environmental damage caused by disposable wipes was unanimously
approved by all parties in the Senate. Now the government is to mount an awareness campaign highlighting the risks of throwing them to the toilet, which leads to blocked pipes and home
floods and can be very costly to repair. Besides the campaign, there will have to be a major rethink on how wipes can be relabelled to identify which are biodegradable and which are not.
-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
SOCIALMEDIA www.theolivepress.es OlivePressNewspaper
olivepress
la cultura May 24th - June 6th 2018
olivepressnews
Art night
Do you have a what’s on?
Send your information to newsdesk@theolivepress.es
No schmucks
+TheolivepressEs
SANTANYÍ will be hosting its BE third annual Canal 'Art eve-‘APPY! ning on June 29. The artistic evening sees the town's art galleries open their doors for an after dark showcase of local artists. Live muBy Joe Wallen sic fills the streets as guests sip wine and nibble on Download bites our app now and while browsing the localbegin artenjoying THEthe very festival of Jewbestfirst Spanish scene. ish learning has been held news on the go. as an attempt to grow the island’s small but resurgent community. Organised by Limud - a global movement which aims to connect Jewish people - participants enjoyed cooking classes, a book club and hiktrips. The ing Olive 85 peoplePress attended the daylong festival out of the island’s TOP for200 news in community. Spain! strong “We realized there was some-
Beer bonanza
ARTA has organised a beer festival with dozens of craft beers filling the amphitheatre of Na Alcaldesa. On June 1 through 3, the small town will host the beer fest, with 1,000 litres of local craft beers for sale, with special pairings, workshops and contests for all ale lovers. Live music makes for a festive weekend, and a new app is available with information and registration for special parings and tastings.
Mallorca’s historic Jewish community is undergoing a revival
GET TOGETHER: Jewish community
Shoe fair The Balearics have a long history of handmade shoes carefully crafted with local materials, and the town of Lloseta honours the tradition with a Shoe and Artisan Fair the first weekend in June. Dozens of shoemakers, craftsman and masters of the trade gather to show off their work and the process of making shoes by hand. Food, music and activities round out the weekend for a truly unique experience on June 2 and 3.
thing missing from the Jewish community here in Mallorca since only a few members attend weekly Friday nights at the synagogue while there exists a larger number of unaffiliated Jews around the island,” the co-chair of Limud Mallorca, Dani Rotstein told the Mallorca Olive Press. “We wanted to bring to this community an opportunity to teach and learn together as well as connect. “The idea of Limud Mallorca
11
11
May 24th - June 6th 2018
is that there is something for everyone. “From topics on ‘The History of the Jewish Empanada’ to ‘Sephardic Influence on Flamenco’ we aimed to celebrate Jewish culture, history, and most of all diversity without putting an emphasis on ‘how Jewish you need to be’ to attend. “There was something for the most and least connected to Judaism.” Historically, Mallorca had a rich Jewish heritage but the Inquisition in the 1300s forced the vast majority of the island’s Jews to convert or practice their faith secretly. The descendants of these Jews were known as ‘Chuetas’ and there is estimated to be 20,000 Mallorquins today with a Chueta last name. More recently the religion has seen a slow but steady revival with British Jews establishing a synagogue in Mallorca in the 1980s. There is also a Jewish cemetary on the island.
what’s on
A
lgaida amazes
ALGAIDA celebrates their town fair on May 26 and 27 with stalls of local products and goods known for their bargain prices. Like all the great Mallorcan festivals, there will be food specials, live music and activities for everyone.
H
erb Fair
Selva's annual Fira de ses Herbes, the herb festival, returns June 8 through 10, with a romantic festival dedicated to the history and traditions of the plants and herbs of the Tramuntana mountain range.
S
tonework festival
BINISSALEM has a unique Stone Craft Fair celebrating both the local stonework and their influence on local cuisine. From May 25 through 27 the town hosts demonstrations, guided tours, live music throughout town, gourmet cuisine tastings, children's activities and a street parade.
Exclusive 20% off membership
travel more worry less
This summer, join TrustedHousesitters to connect with thousands of verified and experienced in-home pet sitters who don’t charge
Join the TrustedHousesitters community today and receive a 20% discount off your membership using code OLIVEPET at the checkout at trustedhousesitters.com
12
www.theolivepress.es
CULTURE
May 24th - June 6th 2018 May 24th - June 6th 2018
Battle crying... with laughter
The ‘Battle’ of Parsley Island is much more comedy than tragedy, writes Jack Giaoni
W
ITH a good pair of binoculars on a clear day, from just about anywhere along the Costa del Sol, you can make out the outline of Parsley Island. It lies about 300 metres off the coast from Morocco and about 13 kilometres directly across the Iberian Peninsula. It is populated solely by lizards, bugs, nesting birds and goats. Yet in 2002 this island was the focal point of a confrontation between Spain and Morocco that quickly reverberated throughout the world. The turn of events fits the clinical definition of a tragic-comedy---only with less of the former and more of the latter. It is an overstatement to refer to this episode as ‘The Battle of Parsley Island’. It was hardly a ‘battle’ in that not a shot was fired and there were no fatalities. In fact to call it an ‘island’ is a stretch. It is more like a pile of rocks about the size of a rugby field. Furthermore, there’s hardly any parsley on it - just ask the Moroccan goat-herder Ramji Lachili (more about her later). In July 2002, tensions rose as six Moroccan soldiers landed (via row-boats) on the island ostensibly to monitor illegal immigration and the drug trade endemic in the Straits of Gibraltar. Armed with a few rifles and
RE-CAPTURED: Spanish troops plant their flag on Parsley Island and (right) the land mass on a map
a radio, the Moroccans set up camp (it consisted of two tents) and haphazardly raised the Moroccan flag. Meanwhile, a Spanish Guardia Civil patrol boat on a routine mission from Ceuta (5km away), noticed the flag and disembarked to investigate. Turned away at gunpoint, the crew returned to Ceuta and reported the incident. In a flash, the incident took on a life of its own. The Spanish media - namely El Mundo - raged that ‘the King of Morocco had chosen a path of confrontation with one of the great European democracies and this should have serious consequences for him’. They were quick to publish a poll that showed one in five voters wanted the island stormed by Spanish commandos. Spanish radio stations were inundated with call-ins demanding the Moroccans ‘be driven back into the sea.’ Mariano Rajoy, then deputy Prime Minister, called the occupation of Parsley Island ‘incomprehensible and an act of hostility.’ The response (or lack thereof) from the Moroccan government was one of comical indifference. As these events were taking place, Morocco was preoccupied with a three-week festival celebrating the marriage of TINY: Parsley Island is not much bigger than a rugby pitch the popular King Mohammed VI. Street parties, feasting, music and dance were just some of the lavish celebrations throughout Morocco. Three hundred other couples in the Kingdom married in public weddings to honour their king. The royal guest list numbered close to two thousand. Former US President Bill Clinton and daughter Chelsea were personal guests at the royal palace. In Madrid, news of the situation quickly boiled over. Under mounting public pressure, Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar launched Operation Romeo-Sierra. From the Straits of Gibraltar, the amphibious ship Castilla coordinated the naval effort. Two submarines began to circle the island while patrol boats raced towards Parsley Island. The Spanish air force deployed F-18 and Mirage F-1 fighters to provide air cover for the 28 Special Forces commandos who stormed ashore in Cougar helicopters. Within a matter of minutes all of the Moroccans were taken prisoners and the island was ‘secured.’ Taken to Guardia Civil headquarters in Ceuta, the ‘combatants’ were promptly escorted to the Moroccan border outside state Morocco. He proceeded to make personal teleof town and released unharmed. phone contacts with both foreign leaders in hopes of Mission Accomplished? Hardly - ‘The returning the island to what it was before the ‘misunBattle of Parsley Island’ misunderstandderstanding’. ing did not go unnoticed internationThe Battle of Parsley Island is an example of a geopoally. Quite the contrary. The European litical incident that took on a dimension amplified far Union met and unanimously supported beyond the reality of the situation. The overreaction of Spain’s objectives labeling the incident Spain and the under reaction of Morocco had all the as the first military invasion of western ► ► In 2010, the internet giant elements of a tragic-comedy. Perhaps the experience Google wrongly identified European soil since World War II. of Ramja Lachili, a Moroccan goat herder is the best Parsley Island as belonging to The Arab League issued a statement example of this. Not long after the ‘battle’, Lachili declaiming that Parsley Island, like Ceuta Morocco. The company apolomanded compensation from Spain claiming that the and Melilla fell under the jurisdiction of gized to Spain and quickly invading Spanish troops either shot four of her goats Morocco. made changes to its Google in retaliation for her country’s invasion or, that the heNATO publicly acknowledged that techniMaps app. licopters that landed on the island simply frightened cally the island belongs to an area under ► ► In 2016 the movie La Isla her goats to death. their protectorate. In the US, Secretary debuted in cinemas across Spain’s defense minister acknowledged that they did of State Colin Powell became involved in Spain. It is based loosely on indeed find some goat remains when they stormed ‘intensive mediation’ in an effort to ease the events of the Battle of the island but claimed that the goats had been butchthe tensions over the contested island. Parsley Island. You can find it ered and eaten for lunch by the Moroccans. A tragPowell was quick to stress the imporon Netflix or Hulu streaming edy for Luchili and her goats but ridiculously amusing tance of the US/Spain NATO alliance but services and yes, it is in the nonetheless… also to acknowledge the long-standing comedy section. Seriously… you can’t make this stuff up! good relations with the moderate Arab
DID YOU
KNOW
?
Property www.theolivepress.es
olive press
www.theolivepress.es
May 2018
Issue 21
Why Richard Branson keeps coming back to Mallorca
May 24th - June 6th 2018
13
SEE PAGE III
DISNEY INSPIRATION: As Game of Thrones descends on Spain’s magnificent castles once more, we take a look at the country’s most enviable historic fortresses
Here come S the Brits
Britons are still moving to Spain in their droves despite Brexit
PAIN remains the most popular EU country for Brits to live in, according to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics. The country’s warm, sunny weather and cheap property prices were listed as the two major factors by Brits in making the move. A total of 293,500 British citizens now call Spain home, making up 37% of Brits living in the EU outside of the United Kingdom. One estate agent operating in
Spain, Lucas Fox, said that in 2017, 66% of its total house sales went to international buyers, of which 10% were Brits. They said this figure was similar to that seen in previous years and proof that Brexit had not put off potential expats from relocating abroad. “Falling unemployment, low interest rates and a strong economy have all contributed to the growth in the Spanish property market,” said Rod Jamieson, the head of operations at Lucas Fox.
Rustic and high-quality teak tables – Also round and in all strengths
GREAT GARDEN FURNITURE
OUTDOOR BED
Prize location
SPECIAL OFFER 888€
TEAK TABLES in all sizes Michael Hoffmann – Monika Datz Hoffmann Pol.Industrial Son Noguera - Calle Marroig 5, Nave 6 E-07620 Llucmajor tel: (+34) 971 669 696 – (+34) 666 590 214 info@teakshop-mallorca.com www. teakshop-mallorca.com Opening hours from Monday to Saturday 10.00-14.00hr
PALMA is by far the most popular place to purchase a property in Mallorca, according to new figures released by estate agents Engel & Volkers. In 2017 alone the number of transactions in the city rose by 21%, with 43% of total property buys on the island occuring in Palma. The increase in popularity of the city has been attributed to a renovation of its Old Town.
Boarded-up shops and dilapidated housing were converted into boutique stores and modern apartments, while much of the area was also pedestrianised. “Before, buyers wanted to be close to the sea, but now they want to be close to Palma,” Klaus Kall, the founder of Gant clothing brand told the Financial Times. “If you live in Mallorca yearround it’s important to be near the action.”
14 II
Property
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - JuneMay 6th2018 2018
Things are looking up for the Spanish property market, with an increase in sales, writes Mark Stucklin of Property Spanish Insight
T
he number of Spanish home sales inscribed in the Land Registry was up by 18% in February compared to the same month last year, the biggest February increase since the boom years more than a decade ago. There were 37,412 Spanish home sales inscribed in the Land Register in February, and 41,480 if you include homes subsidised by the Government, known as VPO, all according to the latest figures from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), based on sales inscribed in the Land Registry. Home sales have grown by double digits in most months since March 2014, when the Spanish housing market recovery started. That said, sales are still down by 44% compared to the peak year of 2007. Sales in the boom years were exaggerated and unsustainable, so not a normal benchmark, but there still looks like room for more growth. Bear in mind these figures are based on sales inscribed in the Land Register, not sales completed in the month. As such they lag the market by a few months. More timely figures from the Association
ON A ROLL: Spain’s property market is seeing sale numbers near pre-crisis levels
STRENGTH TO STRENGTH
of Spanish Notaries for home sales that took place in February were up 2.7%. New home and resale transactions were up 17% and 16% respectively in February, showing that the recover is now firing on both pistons, having relied almost exclusively on resales between the start of the recovery in 2013 and May last year. New home sales have increased
by double digits almost every month for the last year, driven by the recovery in demand for new homes in Spain. Looking at the evolution of sales by region with a focus on areas that attract foreign buyers in significant numbers, year to date sales have increased strongly almost everywhere except Extremadura (where foreign demand is
not a big part of the picture) and Catalunya, where the constitutional crisis and political uncertainty are discouraging foreign buyers. Sales were up 59% in Castellón province, home to the Costa del Azahar, in what looks like the first signs of recovery in a coastal market that has suffered the crisis longer and harder than most.
The overall picture is one of surging sales in most areas of Spain that attract foreigners in significant numbers, with the exception of the Catalan provinces of Barcelona, Girona, and Tarragona. But even in those regions sales were positive, despite the political turbulence. www.spanishpropertyinsight.com
CG Property C/ Julia Bujosa Batle, 6 07184, Calvía Mallorca Tel: (+34) 971 670 300 Mob: (+34) 628 196 939
www.gc-property.com
Calvia – 2,775,000€
ref: CT62
A charming property on the outskirts of Calvia village with a large 40,000m2 approx plot. The property has a total construction of 500m2 which is split between 2 fincas. The main finca on the ground floor has a large lounge with fireplace, and dining area overlooking the orange & almond grove. There is also a modern kitchen, bathroom and study (which could be used as a bedroom). Upstairs you find the large master bedroom with terrace, fireplace and ensuite. The second finca has a kitchen with fireplace and 2 bedrooms with ensuite on the ground floor, whilst upstairs is a lounge, terrace and a further 2 bedrooms which share a bathroom. The property has a private pool, orange grove, garage, storerooms, central heating and a/c throughout. The property also benefits from its own water supply as well.
Genova – 2,850,000€
ref: GEN4
Lovingly restored historical villa in Genova with fantastic views and many original features. The main house has a total of 3 bedrooms (all ensuite), huge lounge with fireplace, dining room, tv room, kitchen with adjoining mini lounge and dining room, 2 wcs & laundry. There is a separate guest apartment with kitchen, lounge, bedroom & bathroom, plus an additional guest bedroom & bathroom currently used as a gym. Outside there is a beautiful pool with sea views and various terrace & eating areas. Other features are central heating, a/c, parking, Mallorquin oven ++. Must be seen!
Property
www.theolivepress.es
Rental rush
DEMAND for rental accommodation is higher in the Balearics than anywhere else in Spain, with the average renter willing to pay over €1,500 a month. According to online classified company Mitula Group, Palma is the most competitive and hard-to-rent city, with 20% of rentals finalised within 48 hours of being listed. Average rental prices are only higher in Barcelona and Madrid, but both are a less competitive market. Calvia is the most expensive area to rent in Mallorca.
UNDER FIRE: Iglesia
Ivory towers
THE members of Spain’s antiausterity party Podemos are to vote on whether it's leader should step down after buying a €600,000 ‘luxury’ home. The party’s half a million members will decide whether it was wrong for the staunch left-wing politician Pablo Iglesias to buy the property which has a swimming pool and a guest house - in Galapagar, northwest of Madrid. He explained that he and his girlfriend, fellow Podemos polítician Irene Montero, need the extra space as they are about to have twins. Iglesias had previously criticised the former Economy
Minister Luis de Guindos for buying a similarly priced apartment in 2012. “Would you hand the economic policy of the country to someone who spends 600,000 euros on a luxury apartment?,” Iglesias then tweeted. Several political commentators and real estate experts questioned the timing of the purchase of the house in Galapagar. “With the public data we have, it looks like the couple have taken on more risk than is advisable,” said Juan Villen, the head of mortgage services at Idealista. “It is not setting a good example to get into debt in this way, especially at a time when we’re asking for prudence from the financial industry to avoid the excesses of the past.” Iglesias and his partner took out a 90% mortgage of €540,000 on the property, which they plan to pay off over 30 years.
Knockout deal for Conor CAGEFIGHTER Conor McGregor is soon to join the Marbella jetset after purchasing a luxury holiday home for a cool €1.5million. Located near La Resina Golf Course on the resort called The Heights in between the celebrity hotspot and Estepona, the property features an LED lit driveway, customised gym and a home spa.
Staying active W
ITH his usual residence on the British Virgin Islands uninhabitable, Richard Branson has revealed how his estate in Son Bunyola has become a more regular home. “Whilst Necker Island is being rebuilt, I’ve had the pleasure of spending time at many of these [other] properties,” Branson told A Place in the Sun. “I’ve tried to create the kinds of places that I would never want to leave. “I’ve always run my homes like businesses and run all my businesses like homes.” The Virgin Group founder rebought his 700-acre luxurious Son Bunyola estate in 2015 after a previous dispute with the Mallorquin authorities who had denied him planning permission to build a luxury boutique hotel there in 2002. “Son Bunyola is my favourite Mallorcan retreat, I try to visit as often as I can,” he said. He now harbours plans to build Europe’s best eco-resort on the land. “Central to the estate is a Finca building dating back to the 1800s, surrounded by vines, citrus trees, almonds and olive trees. “It is absolutely beautiful and I
15 III
May 24th June 6th 2018 May- 2018
British billionaire can’t resist spending more time on Mallorca estate
look forward to seeing how plans progress.” The estate comprises a large manor house - the aforementioned Finca - which Branson stays in when he visits the island. Accompanying the manor are three country houses, available to hire to the general public if they fancy a luxurious and relaxing break. “The northwest coast has always been a location for which I have great fondness. “It has so much to offer… unspoilt nature, picturesque villages, top-class restaurants and Finca hotels and culture. “The region is dominated by the Tra-
muntana mountain range and its breathtaking scenery and is home to some of the most historical and picturesque towns on the island. “My son, Sam, even named his daughter Eva-Deia in honour of the village of Deia, which is one of the most beautiful in the world.” Branson has no plans for re-
tirement and after conquering the business world on Planet Earth with his Virgin brand he now has his sights set on outer space through his Virgin Galactic company which aims to deliver commercial space travel. However, Branson knows that even the most successful business magnates need time to rest and recover - and Son Bunyola will provide him with this for many years to come. “Mallorca is so special to me because it provides the perfect environment to relax, laugh, learn and love with my family,” he said. “My favourite memories are the most simple: sitting around the table talking, admiring the scenery and enjoy-
G’day amigo SPAIN is emerging as an increasingly popular destination for Australian retirees, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). According to ABS data, 11,660 Aussies over the age of 55 made a permanent move overseas in 2016, compared to just under 8,000 in 2005. The study found that Spain, along with Italy and Greece, was the most popular destination. The cost of living and buying property in Australia is skyrocketing and the Iberian Peninsula can therefore seem like a much more affordable place to spend one’s twilight years. Norah Ohrt, 71, lives in the small Andalusian town of Martos. She told the press that if she still lived Down Under she would be only able to afford to live in state housing and would survive ‘on the smell of an oily rag on the Australian pension’. In Spain she can afford to live in a three bedroom, two bathroom house with spectacular views of the town’s old city. “If you’re on an Australian pension and struggling, I would strongly suggest that you look to alternatives, particularly if you have a second language that you can use,” she said.
OVER 30 YEARS IN MALLORCA PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICE
Checking in THE construction of the Palau de Congressos de Palma generated €9.4 million for the local economy in 2017, according to the general director of the complex. The conference centre revealed that a total of 127 events will also take place in the centre in 2018, involving 50,000 attendees. Built in April 2017, the centre and its adjoining hotel - the Melia Palma Bay - aimed to provide the best conference facilities in the entire Mediterranean. The facility features a Grand Auditorium which can house more than 1,900 people, a smaller auditorium for less than 500 visitors as well as exhibition areas and conference rooms, each equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
Pasaje 19 de Marzo, 10 y 11, Poligono Son Bugadellas, Calvia, Mallorca
Tel: (+34) 971 69 30 04 Fax: (+34) 971 69 15 05 info@tiptoptoldos.com
www.tiptopmallorca.com
16 II
Property
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - JuneMay 6th2018 2018
Keys Isl nd to the
T
HE sun is definitely out, the sky is blue and temperatures are finally rising! Thank goodness – it's a rare UK newspaper headline that London is having warmer weather than Palma in mid May. A strange Spring all round with two 'Beasts from the East' affecting the whole of Europe as far south as the Balearics. We can take some solace - unlike the UK - that the sun will continue to shine for most of the summer months to come, although it was of course wonderful that sun was shining on the Royal Wedding of Harry and Meghan. I didn't manage to see it live being busy with viewings (of which more later..), but even being at the mercy of the highlights, it looked quite beautiful - Windsor Castle particularly - looking absolutely magical with its striped lawns and Spring flowers, bordered by the cheering Union-flagged masses. And what a juxtaposition it was - with Royal pomp and pageantry meeting head-on with African-American Gospel in a way that it never has before. I am still chuckling at the sight of the ebullient American preacher giving it such elaborate theatre whilst familiar Royals giggled under their huge wedding hats - a superb show and image to project around the world - and a very beautiful couple to whom I wish eternal happiness. Anyway, on to property. There is certainly no doubt the Mallorca market
By Amanda Butler
Sell, sell, sell
putting the price up to €1.1 million!! I was tempted not to tell them, hoping they would make a decision to buy the first line one for 1.25m, but clearly I rating agent having the key. This was couldn't in case they chose the Montall rather irritating when we had been port one. building up to this for two months, re- So I am now waiting to hear news viewing properties, short listing them it may of course help them to choose and making arrangements with 10 the penthouse which is my preferdifferent agents to coordinate view- ence, and I am crossing my fingers ings and timings. We that will be the case! finally had two properAlso providing a strong ties with significant inmessage to these A change of price terest from my buyer, owners that they can't with a seller pulling mess people around mid viewings back with little or no – a change in price immediate explanadoesn’t leave a mid viewings doesn't tion! Highly irritating, a good taste in good taste in the leave and potentially upsetanyone’s mouth! They ting for my clients! The mouth may of course still preestate agent's task is fer this one, since they almost always significould put more of their cantly more complicatown mark on it and it is ed than is often perceived. slightly bigger - but it could also comI was rather suspicious of the mo- pletely put them off altogether, which tives, and did suspect that once they would be rather upsetting all round. had a hint of interest that perhaps the Right at this minute I don't know what price would be going up. Which was their decision will be ....... but I'm keepexactly the scenario confirmed by the ing my fingers crossed and will let you other agent last night, with the owner know in the next June issue!
Mallorca has shifted to a seller’s market, writes Amanda Butler
has shifted from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market, which was unceremoniously highlighted last weekend when showing clients some sea view apartments in the Port Andratx area. Having seen 15 properties over two days, my clients had shortlisted two that they wished to see on the Sunday before returning to the UK later that day - a 3-bed €1.25m first line 'turnkey' penthouse which has just come
on the market, and a 4-bed apartment at €950.000 higher up the hill in Montport, needing renovation which had been on the market at this price for 3 years with no serious buyers. The first line apartment - and my personal favourite close to Club de Vela Andratx (the sailing club) - was well received but with the second one, the owner wouldn't let us see it at the very last minute, despite the collabo-
Contact Amanda J Butler to buy or sell your home: Tel: +34690075169, www.mjcassociates.net. Your professional one stop property shop around the Island!
COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE onlymallorca.com
MALLORCA VILLA IN BEST POSITION IN CALA MARMACEN
Ref. 7441 · Constructed area 455 m2 · 5 bedrooms · 5 bathrooms · Air conditioning, Alarm system, Built in wardrobes, Fully reformed, Garage / Parking, High quality, Lift, Office, Prime location, Privacy, Sea view, Swimming pool, Underfloor Heating, Utility room, Wine cellar, Wireless Internet · Price: 5.950.000 €
Isaac Peral, 38 · 07157 Puerto de Andratx (+34) 971 238 526 · info@onlymallorca.com
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
17
18
Ref: 11883
www.theolivepress.es
Bedrooms: 3
May 24th - June 6th 2018
Bathrooms: 2
Build: 220m2
1,870,000â‚Ź
R
Elegant townhouse completely renovated in Portixol Elegant townhouse completely renovated in Portixol. This beautiful house has 220 m2 of living space distributed over 3 floors, in the basement we find a large spa area, and a toilet, on the main floor a bright and spacious living room with a large kitchen integrated into the living room and with access to a terrace with a wonderful pool. On the upper floor there are 3 double bedrooms with 2 full bathrooms, the last floor is a roof terrace with partial sea views. Located just 200 m2 from the seafront, very close to the beach, 10 minutes by car from the city center of Palma and only 15 minutes from the airport. An ideal place to live or spend the holidays!
Ref: 11891
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
Build: 441m2
2,650,000â‚Ź
Elegant house next to the golf course of Nova Santa Ponsa Elegant house next to the golf course of Nova Santa Ponsa. This house has been built on a plot of 1309 m2, it has a living area of 441 m2 distributed over 2 floors. The house has 2 double bedrooms with 2 full bathrooms, a large bright living room with large windows and a modern integrated kitchen. On the lower floor there is a nice and spacious guest apartment that has a very bright and spacious room with access to the outside of the house, living room, bathroom and kitchen. On the outside of the property there are large areas of gardens and terraces with a nice pool. This house is located in one of the most popular areas of the area, just a few minutes from several golf courses and the beautiful Puerto Adriano. With all the necessary services to live just 5 minutes by car and only 20 minutes from the center of the city of Pama!
W W W. S G I - M A L L O R C A . C O M
R
Y O U R PA R Twww.theolivepress.es NERS IN MAKING YOUR DREAMS COM E 24th T R- June U E6th 2018 May A PA R T M E N T S
•
TOWNHOUSES COMMERCIAL
Ref: 11895
•
PLOTS •
•
VILLAS
R E N TA L S
PENTHOUSES •
FINCAS
•
Bedrooms: 2
Yo u r s H e r m a n n K ö p p l e r
FULL SERVICE
Bathrooms: 2
Build: 115m2
1,060,000€
1st line apartment Nova Santa Ponsa Apartment on the 1st line of the sea in Nova Santa Ponsa. This apartment consists of 260 m2, of which 115 m2 are living area, distributed in 2 double rooms with 2 en suite bathrooms and large dressing room each. Independent kitchen completely furnished and equipped, large living room with access to several terraces that have more than 108 m2 with stunning views of the sea and the beautiful Puerto Adriano. This apartment is in a luxury complex that has 3 beautiful swimming pools and several garden areas as well as a direct access to the sea. It is located just minutes from several of the golf courses and Puerto Adriano, with all the necessary services within five minutes by car in Santa Ponsa. A luxury place !
Ref: 11893
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 6
Build: 700m2
7,800,000€
Exclusive villa with panoramic sea views in Bendinat This exclusive villa has been built in 2005, with wonderful panoramic sea views. This house is located in one of the most exclusive residential areas of the island, next to the golf course of the area, shops, international schools, several sports places and the elegant city of Palma. This Mediterranean style villa enjoys a South orientation and has been built on a plot of 1,800 m2 with a building area of 700m2 where we find 5 bedrooms and 6 full bathrooms. This property includes air conditioning, underfloor heating, garage and a large pool with large areas of solarium and jacuzzi. This prestigious Neoclassical style villa has been built with materials of the highest quality in the market, with exclusive details of the Italian style.
P U I G D E S C A S T E L L E T. 1 - 2 , B L . 3 , 0 7 1 8 0 S A N TA P O S A , M A L L O R C A (+34) 971 695 912 • INFO@SGI-MALLORCA.COM
19
20 II
Property
www.theolivepress.es
Castle kings As Game of Thrones announces its eighth series is to heavily feature an Andalucian castle, the Olive Press picks out its top ten best built Iberian fortresses
S
PAIN undoubtedly has one of the largest and most stunning collection of castles in the world. It’s no surprise that Game of Thrones will be featuring one in its upcoming eighth series. Announced this month, the Almodovar del Rio castle (top right) near Cordoba will take
May 24th - JuneMay 6th2018 2018
centre stage in the hit fantasy series’ penultimate season. Previously a Roman fort, the current structure is of Moorish origin, from the year 760. During the Middle Ages, it underwent several renovations and reconstructions. Below we have rounded up 10 other castles from Spain’s enviable collection.
DANGEROUS GAME: The Throne gang
Castle of La Mota, Valladolid This reconstructed fortress dates back to the 11th century. Many kings of Castile and Aragon fought over it, but it has been a Castilian holding since the 1400s.
The castle dominates the surrounding Valladolid Province. At one time it was a well-known prison, housing inmates like Hernando Pizarro, conqueror of Peru, and Cesare Borgia.
FULL PRICE FOR YOUR HOUSE OR PROPERTY AS PAYMENT FOR ONE OF THESE BRAND NEW DESIGNER HOUSES
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
INTERIOR DESIGN
Mallorca
C/. Islas Baleares 37 (Son Bugadelles) 07180 Santa Ponsa Tel.: +34 971 694 154
www.stork-mallorca.de
KITCHEN
Germany
Melanchthonstr. 114 75015 Bretten Tel.: +49 (0) 7252 91 40
www.stork-die-einrichtung.de
21
22 II VII
Property
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - JuneMay 6th2018 2018
Bellver Castle, Mallorca
Lorca Castle, Murcia Lorca Castle was designed to be a defensive fortress, and it worked, having never been forcibly taken by invaders since being built in the Medieval era. It sits on a site of a former Muslim citadel, and is now a heritage center, known as Fortress of the Sun.
This castle is the only circular fortress of its kind in Europe. Not only is the wall around the castle circular, but so are the towers and the castle itself. King James II of Mallorca built the masterpiece in the 14th century. It was later used as a military prison for political prisoners and today houses a museum.
Penafiel Castle, Valladolid Penafiel is noted for its length (150 metres) and its resemblance to a ship. Standing tall at 30 metres, this fortress was built between the ninth and 15th centuries and still holds an imposing presence, especially when its lit up at night.
Telephone: 971 73 56 37 Carrer d’Espartero, 6, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears Monday to Friday 10am-8pm Saturday: 11am-2pm Sunday closed
Property
www.theolivepress.es
23 III VIII
May 24th June 6th 2018 May 2018 May- 2018
New Castle of Manzanares el Real, Madrid
This 15th century fortress is one of the best preserved castles in the Madrid area. Its other claim to fame is that it featured in a scene in the epic movie, El Cid. Built entirely of granite, The six-floor castle is a shining example of Spanish military architecture. Today it houses a museum on Spanish castles.
Alhambra, Granada
It’s impossible to talk about Spanish castles without mentioning the stunning Alhambra. As one of, if not THE most visited tourist sites in the country, there is nothing quite like it. The Alhambra - ‘Red Castle” in Arabic - has intricate architectural details representing the influence of the Moors who inhabited it for several centuries. Because this is such a popular attraction, the number of visitors is restricted; Alhambra officials recommend booking tickets in advance.
home
|
elements
|
kitchen
Alcazar of Segovia The Alcazar of Segovia is the fairy-tale mold of European castles and is reported to be the inspiration for the Cinderella Castle at Disney World. The castle sits on a hill and gives visitors the impression it is like a ship sailing toward them. Royalty lived here, including Isabella I who was crowned here in 1474. The castle is a museum today with paintings and an armory.
c/. Son Bugadelles, 9 | 07180 Santa Ponsa | +34 971 13 42 45 www.leanti-kitchen.com
-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
24
24
SOCIALMEDIA www.theolivepress.es OlivePressNewspaper olivepress
Business
May 24th - June 6th 2018
www.theolivepress.es
May 10th - May 23rd 2018
olivepressnews
Your dream lifestyle begins here
+TheolivepressEs
BE ‘APPY!
Download our app now and begin enjoying the best Spanish news on the go.
The Olive Press TOP for news in Spain!
Historical villa on the pine walk exclusive beach promenade in Puerto Pollensa with glorious, direct beach and sea views. 370 m²
479 m²
7
Finest
3
Properties
1
€
3.000.000
Ref. KNP07041
Inter national
pollensa@kensington-international.com Tel +34 971 533 323 · Via Pollentia 9 · 07460 Pollença
www.kensington-mallorca.com
-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
SOCIALMEDIA
www.theolivepress.es
OlivePressNewspaper olivepress
Balearic President to meet with BE ‘APPY! airlines to ensure planned discount increase does YAHOO! has been fined €2.75 not affect flight Download ourAgency app nowin and million by the Tax prices Spain. begin enjoying the best Spanish
Yikes
25 25 25
May 24th - June 6th 2018
olivepressnews +TheolivepressEs
business
May 24th - June 6th 2018 March 29th - April 11th 2018
Resident rapture
Along with forced to newsbeing on the go. pay the sum, the internet ser- THE President of the Balearics has vowed vice provider is still subject to to prevent airlines increasing their prices numerous inspections. after new resident discounts look likely to It comes after an audit of the come into force from July. company’s corporate tax and There are fears that as Balearic residents VAT payments for the years will be able to claim an increased 75% dis2010 and 2011. count on flights between the islands and Allegedly the company may the mainland - the rate is currently 50% also have to return European airlines will simply bump up their prices to subsidies worth million. The €4.4 Olive Press counter the price cuts. Although Yahoo! had almost no activity in Spain last year TOP for news in Spain! it faces probes by OLAF, the EU’s anti-fraud agency. OLAF claims a subsidy meant for funding company internTHE Mallorquin Ministry of Tourism ships for students was not has come under criticism from a leadused according to EU guideing group of hoteliers over the benefits lines. of the Sustainable Tourism Tax. The Hotel Business Federation of Mallorca (HBFM) expressed its anger that despite requesting ‘several times during the last two months’ to see where money had been spent, they had received no response. Their frustration comes after several tour operators berated the Mallorquin government at the recent ITB Berlin
This move could price out those not resident in the Balearics from visiting the mainland. Francina Armengol has said she plans to meet with executives from leading airlines, such as Iberia, to ensure that prices remain the same. Armengol will also request an explanation from airlines of how they expect to cope with lost revenue when the new law comes into force during peak season. “We will transmit this vigilance of the government so that this increase in the discount ensures a reduction in the final price,” explained the Minister of Transport, Marc Pons. travel show for not being able to proCurrently, the proposed disvide information on where tourists count does not cover ferry transmoney was going. port of the shipping of goods. The Minister of Tourism, Bel BusHowever, the President hopes quets, has vowed that the government to overturn this in time for July. will make ‘an effort’ to produce clear While the new law has not been figures about expenditure. passed by the Spanish governThe spat comes as the HBFM revealed ment yet, the authorities in Mathat tourism numbers had dipped bedrid have confirmed that it has low expectations so far this year after their full support and they have the recovery of destinations in North already considered its impact in Africa, such as Egypt. their recent economic forecast, believing it will cost €44 million.
Tourist tax trouble
MATHSTONE
NEW LEADER: Torra
Risky business THE political situation in Catalunya is the economy’s biggest domestic risk, the Bank of Spain announced on Tuesday. Rising tensions between Madrid and Barcelona and the uncertainty of the new regional government have seen thousands of companies move their headquarters out of Catalunya. “In the short and medium term, the final effect of this risk element on the whole of the economy will depend on the magnitude and persistence of this episode of political uncertainty,” the bank stated in its annual financial report.
BETTER IDEAS FOR EXPATRIATE INVESTORS
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
A new style of expatriate investing has arrived. Are you ready for a change?
• LOW-COST, HIGH CALIBRE INVESTMENT SERVICES • TRANSPARENT, EASY TO UNDERSTAND FEES • REDUCING COSTS, INCREASING RETURNS • FEE-BASED, NON-CONTRACTUAL INVESTING • FLEXIBILITY, ACCESSIBILITY, LIQUIDITY • PORTFOLIO REVIEW AND ANALYSIS SERVICE
To learn more about secure, low-cost investing call: +34 952 768 345 or send an email to info@mathstone.co.uk Mathstone/BFMI, Marbella Costa del Sol Avda. Ricardo Soriano 72, Edificio Golden, Portal B, 1ª Planta, 29601 Marbella (Málaga)
WWW.MATHSTONE.CO.UK The financial advisers trading under Mathstone Financial Management/BFMI are members of Nexus Global (IFA Network). Nexus Global is a division of Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited (BFMI). All approved individual members of Nexus Global are Appointed Representatives of BFMI. BFMI is licenced and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (FSC) and bound by the rules under licence number FSC00805B.
26 26
www.theolivepress.es www.theolivepress.es
GAS DROP HOUSEHOLD gas cylinders will be almost 5% cheaper starting from this week. A 12.5kg butane gas bottle will now cost €13.27 - a saving of 69 cent. This is the second time the price has dropped this year, despite an increase in international material costs, as the euro has gained value in comparison to the dollar. The new reduced price will be valid for two months, until July 17, when it will be reviewed again. This regulated price change affects mostly household butane cylinders which weigh between eight to 20kg.
Spain’s weapons exports explode its own record SPAIN sold €4.3 billion worth of military equipment last year, new figures have revealed. It is a 7.3% increase on 2016 and the second year in a row the country has broken its own record. According to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Spain was the seventh-largest exporter of weapons last year. The bulk of all sales were aircraft assembled at a plant in Sevilla. The EU accounted for 72.6% of Spain’s weapons exports. Outside the bloc, the country’s biggest client was Saudi Arabia with €270.2 million in sales, a 133% rise from 2016. The Spanish government blocked four sales last year, including two worth €1.9 million meant for Israel. Sales to China and another to Myanmar were also blocked. Germany was Spain’s top cli-
Jobs crisis THE economic crisis is continuing to pinch the jobs market in Malaga province where 53,500 fewer men are in work compared to a decade ago. And despite a 2.2% rise in employment rates during 2017, this figure is not positive enough says a report presented by CCOO Málaga.
business
May 24th - June 6th 2018 May 24th - June 6th 2018
Military coup ent, purchasing €1.2 billion worth of weapons. Other major clients were Britain, France and Turkey. Aircraft assembled in Sevilla accounted for 79% of Spain’s military exports. Saudi Arabia topped Egypt as Spain’s number one nonEU client last year, spending €270.2 million on a carrier aircraft, unmanned aircraft, replacement parts, mortar shells and more. The weapons will likely be used for Saudi Arabia’s assault on Yemen. Since its operation began there in 2015, orders of Spanish weapons have almost tripled from €34.7 million in 2016 to €90.1 million in 2017. The Middle-Eastern power has been accused of crimes against humanity in the war. Amnesty International, Oxfam Intermon and Greenpeace say that there is not enough monitoring of how the weapons sold are used.
SOARING: Spain’s weapons exports (El Pais)
Mobile mail AN Irish fintech firm is helping customers of Spain's postal service get access to Google Pay with their prepaid credit cards. The relationship between Prepaid Financial Services Limited (PFS) and Correos began three years ago when the post office launched its prepaid offering. Hundreds of thousands of holders of the prepaid Mastercard, available across 2,400 post offices in Spain, can now purchase using Google Pay functionality. Deputy Head of Corporate Development at Correos, Martin Gonzalez de Haro, said that PFS technology and the collaboration with Correos allows citizens to make mobile transactions without a traditional bank account. "Correos, as a company, is focused on providing cardholders with the most innovative payment services and this integration with Google Pay certifies Correos as the first prepaid programme to be enrolled on mobile payments, making access to this new technology easy," he said. PFS CEO Noel Moran said that the launch places financial tech at the heart of Spain's ecosystem. "Correos is the country's 5th largest employer with 53,000 employees and we are honoured to continue our partnership with the post office network.”
Property AGONY ANT YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES
Under fire
T
HE Spanish Tax Office has come under heavy fire from a select group of 35 tax and law professors for what they consider an ‘inquisitorial’ approach to taxcollection. The experts, who met in Granada a few days ago, showed no sympathy for a state organisation that ‘bullies’ taxpayers into submission by flouting principles like presumption of innocence, juridical and legal security and equality. The declaration signed by the legal experts touches on various aspects: ●● ●●
●●
●●
●● Far
Gradual conversion of the role of a taxpayer into a ‘tax servant’. Excessive zeal for aggressive tax collection campaigns -perceived as unfair and unjust- that are producing a deterioration of legal security. Higher tax tolerance for multinational companies who, due to their unlimited resources, can dramatically reduce their tax exposure in Spain. The document refers to online giant retailers that avoid taxes by distorting the interpretation of ‘geographical’ location in revenue legislation (and get away with it). ‘Cantonization’ of the Spanish tax system by reference to the notable differences, or discriminations, between different Spanish territories. Usurpation by the Government of tax legislative functions, in detriment of the Parliament’s functions. from easing their grip on taxpayers the
Spanish tax office is described as ‘Inquisitor’ by 35 professors
Spanish Revenue System, commonly known as ‘Hacienda’, has upped the ante by finalising the drafting of a Code of Good Conduct where tax advisors and lawyers handling tax affairs will be held jointly liable with their clients, in cases of fraud and evasion. Whilst many see in the Spanish Tax Office a tyrannical entity intent on extorting wealth from law-abiding citizens, others see this as the price to pay to become a full ‘Western’ nation in control of its people. As George Washington states more than two centuries ago: “Government is not reason; it is not eloquent; it is force. Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master.”
Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.com
-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
SOCIALMEDIA
Food, Drink & travel
www.theolivepress.es
OlivePressNewspaper olivepress olivepressnews +TheolivepressEs
BE ‘APPY!
May 24th - June 6th 2018
27 27
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
Expat chef recalls the meals he cooked for celebrities including Michael Jackson and the Queen
All for apricots
EXCLUSIVE By Elisa Menendez
EVER wondered what it would be like to share an evening with a global suDownload our app now and perstar? A Costa del Sol chef has cooked for begin enjoying the best Spanish many of them, including Rod Stewart, news on the go. Michael Jackson and Shirley Bassey, APRICOTS are given their to name just a few. own day in the town of Por- British chef, Steve Hyatt, has also reres for the fifth year this served up dishes for the Queen and June at the Fira de L'Albercoc, Frank Sinatra too. the apricot fair. “I spent three nights drinking until the The town square fills with early hours with Frank, he was such a stalls and stands all after- nice guy,” added the 66-year-old exnoon, with fresh apricots and pat, who upped sticks to open his resscrumptious foods including taurant the Blue Marlin in Mijas three The Olive Press jams and pastries. years ago with his wife Alison. The fair has a popular cake The expat, who has worked at a string for in Spain! contest, TOP as well as news an apricot of five-star hotels from South Africa to splitting contest and tastings Australia, recalled how the Rat Pack at local bars and restaurants crooner called him to come out of the of sweet and savory dishes kitchen to congratulate him on a great honouring the fruit. meal. The day of the fair depends on when the fruit is perfectly Jazzed up ripe, and will be announced by the Porreres town hall A night of drinking ensued in the city soon. of Durban, in which they shared ‘numerous’ travellers tales. “The next evening I cooked him oysters but he wasn’t keen,” laughed Steve, who later jazzed up the dish and prepared ‘Rockefeller-style’ oysters A NEW ‘gastro beach club’ which were more to Sinatra’s taste. with an environmental slant On the third night, the superstar has opened at Can Pere An- burst through the doors and shouted: toni beach. “Stevie, it’s post time!” and poured a Assaona aims to bring back strong glass of liquor before a small, fine dining to the Palma Beach private performance. area with prices ranging from Another major icon to walk through €40 to €60 a head. the Southern Sun Hotel doors was the The restaurant sits on the site King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. of the old Nassau restaurant “He was quiet and polite and really on the beach, with hammocks quite childlike,” recalled Steve, who hanging near the sea, and in- cooked a traditional South African side is decorated with natural dish for the superstar. wood, rope and palm hearts But not all of the expat’s celeb encounfrom local companies. ters were plain sailing, as he recalls It is aiming to be carbon neu- how Dame Shirley Bassey was ‘hortral with solar and wind en- rible’. ergy powering the restaurant, “She was stoned out of her brains and while hookups for electric cars hacked off after she performed a conare to be added soon. cert where a lot of people walked out,” he added.
Green grub
Night with the stars CELEB CLIENTS: Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson and Rod Stewart
Ingredients
· This creates a breakfast for 4 persons · 100 grams Smoked Salmon, cut into slivers · 25 grams Black Truffles (finely grated, a small quantity reserved for shaving on top of finished dish) · 6 Eggs (stored overnight with the fresh truffles) · 60 ml Cream · 4 slices of bread · Butter · Salt and Pepper to taste
My dish for Queen
Scrambled Egg with Black Truffle and Smoked Salmon A favourite of Queen Elizabeth
3. Melt a tablespoon of butter in a non stick pan and lightly cook the egg mixture. 4. Spoon the egg mixture over the toasted bread, layer the smoked salmon slivers on top, and finish with truffle shavings.
Instructions
1. Beat the eggs, cream, salt, pepper and the finely grated Truffle in a small bowl. 2. Lightly toast the bread slices on each side, and butter. After the singer ordered room service at 1am and requested lobsters, she claimed she had not ordered them and an aggressive outburst followed. “She got abusive towards the staff and even a bit racist,” added Steve, who said the diva had no recollection of her actions the next morning at breakfast.
The fine-dining chef got his first taste of the high life when he became an apprentice at the age of 16, on the prestigious Queen Elizabeth 2 ship. It was there that he met his first global figure, the Queen of England. “It was quite intimidating,” he admitted.
He cooked a dish of smoked salmon and truffles (recipe below), as the Queen apparently doesn’t eat starch. Now, the expat is enjoying his own new-found celebrity status as he is recognised as ‘the man off the telly’, following his appearance on the TV show, A New Life in the Sun.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF ITALIAN FAMILY HOSPITALITY
Green fair PUIGPUNYENT is hosting its annual Ecological, Rustic and Artisan Fair, raising awareness of the importance of protecting the agricultural heritage of Mallorca. The fair boasts organic fruits, vegetables, local meats and cheeses from around the island, along with crafts and handmade goods on May 26 and 27. There will be live music, workshops and activities for the whole family. Six local restaurants have put together special dishes including mixed paella at Can Jordi, black Angus burgers from The Rose, and Mallorcan cuttlefish from Es Pont. A special wine tasting will be held on May 25, with wines from the Son Bordils vineyard paired with Mallorcan cured sausages.
MAESTRO: Steve
tel: 871 53 13 72 CALLE FABRICA, 3. SANTA CATALINA, PALMA DE MALLORCA
28
www.theolivepress.es
28
Food, drink & travel May 24th - June 6th 2018
NEVER OUT OF FASHION
WINNER: Javier Artero
Jumping for Joyce
A SPANISH chef had to be content with third place after being topped by an Irishman and an Englishman in the Best European Chef competition of 2018. Javier Artero was pipped by Irishman David Joyce to the crown in the final head to head session with six chefs. In true Masterchef fashion, the finalists had to prepare a three-
C/. Cotoner 54 Santa Catalina, Palma T. +34 971 289 375 reservas@tallerdemar.com •
•
www.tallerdemar.com
course meal in four hours from a pre-selected shopping basket. The winners were chosen by a panel, including Carlos Fernandez from Martin Berasategui and Oscar Teixido, culinary coordinator at the School of Hospitality in Barcelona. UK chef Stefano Corrias came in third in the competition set up by Aramark.
Wine in a can TWO British friends have launched the first wine in a can with the help of a Spanish illustrator. The Uncommon, the brainchild of Alex Thraves and Henry Connell, uses Bacchus grapes grown in Surrey and is produced with the help of Dorking-based Litmus Wines. The pair said: “Our business model is to partner with multiple thoughtful producers across the UK, which allows us to ensure consistent high quality fruit. “We add CO2, which is a common method in lightly sparkling wines such as a Vinho Verde. This way we can freshen up the wine without making it overly fizzy or sweet which is often the case with traditional or charmat method wines such as Champagne and Prosecco.” Enlisting the help of Spanish illustrator Yido to design the cans, Thraves and Connell have achieved an exclusive listing in Selfridges where the 11.5% ABV sparkler retails for £4.99 per 250ml.
Monday to Saturday 13.00-16.00 & 19.30-23.30 traditional
tel: 971 91 55 22 Carrer de Caro, 16, 07013 Palma de Mallorca www.naanstreetfood.es
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
May 24th - June 6th 2018
www.theolivepress.es
29 29
There are some great wines grown on our doorstep, writes Aleesha Hansel
Keep it local
T
HIS fortnight’s column has been inspired by my recent trip to Ronda. After walking around and exploring the historic and very instagram-worthy mountain top city, I stopped off for a spot of lunch. Naturally I asked to see the wine list, the response to which was ‘House or Ronda’ - I chose Ronda. One of the things I love about wine and the reason I enjoy learning about it, is that it tells a story. It is all about history, geology, anthropology even, and so much more all wrapped up in a liquid. So here, for what it’s worth, is my analysis of the three key regions of Andalucia, minus Jerez and its wonderful sherries.
Malaga
Moscatel and Pedro Ximenez are the hero grapes of the Malaga region, generally producing sweet, fortified wines that pair brilliant well with dessert such as tarta de manzana. The origins of viticulture in the area can be traced back to the Phoenicians during the eighth century, a similar story to many other regions in Spain. The Greeks and the Romans both did their bit to increase the appetite for and technology of wine pro-
Wine time With Aleesha Hansel
and Tempranillo and with white varieties including Chardonnay, Macabeo, Colombard and Sauvignon Blanc.
Huelva
duction and even the centuries of Moorish muslim occupation did little to dissuade its popularity. Despite the Koran prohibiting alcohol, ‘Xarab Al Malaqui’ (Málaga syrup) was still made with producers simply being required to pay an extra tax to get around the religious authorities. When Malaga was reconquered by the Christians, a ‘Wine makers fraternity’ was established called the Hermandad Sacramental de Viñeros and quickly went about promoting the virtues of wine drinking.
Ronda The area of wine production known as the Serrania de Ronda forms part of the so -called DO Sierras of Malaga. Although not well known on a global scale yet (although that is changing) wine from the area has been produced and sold for millenia, with the nearby town of Setenil de los Bode-
gas (there is a clue in the name), for example, being where the Romans stored their wine in caves. Roman coins from 47-44AD found in the nearby settlement of Acinipo, ten minutes from modern day Ronda, feature a cluster of grapes - suggesting that wine played an important position in the economy. There is a well preserved Roman amphitheatre there and appropriately Ronda’s biggest vineyard Ramos Paul sits just below it. The majority of Ronda’s vineyards, which number around 30, sit between 750 to 1000 m altitude and produce both red and white wines that thrive with the influences of both the warm Mediterranean climate and cooler Atlantic influences. This duality allows the vines to develop acidity, ripeness and complexity. Many can be put down for years. Reds can be a blend of Romé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot
Legend has it that when Columbus set sail for America he left from the port of Palos de la Frontera in Huelva. He and his team packed plentiful supplies for the trip including dried tuna, vegetables and of course lashings of wine. With the closest vineyards being just inland, it could therefore be said that Huelva wines were the first Spanish wines to be exported to America, and indeed the wines Condado de Huelva are now known as the ‘Discovery wines’. Traditionally the region produced a fortified, earthy and nutty flavoured wine similar in style to Oloroso. However Condado Viejo, made with the indigenous grape Zalema, was vastly overshadowed by its more famous cousin - the sherries of Jerez and as such many vines were pulled up and strawberries planted instead. Today the area’s wine industry is making a slow comeback will unaged white wines that are light, fresh and neutral, a decent match for the local seafood. One winery, Cooperativa Nuestra Señora del Rocío in Almonte, not content with making just table wines has pushed the boundary and are now making Andalucia’s only sparkling wine, Raigal.
Music, gastronomy, design, comfort and great art.
OD Port Portals combines good location with contemporary and mediterranean design. For work or for pleasure, as a true symbol of quality, OD Port Portals is everything anyone staying in Majorca can ever wish for. A lively place, with its own events, Burger Meets Gin, Mexican Brunch or Tasting Brunch, where locals and visitors are welcome. Av. Tomàs Blanes Tolosa, 4 07181 Calvià | Mallorca +34 971 675 956 odportportals.com
30 30
www.theolivepress.es www.theolivepress.es
Columnists
Getting on in Mallorca
May 24th - June 6th 2018 May 24th - June 6th 2018
Mallorca diaries
Aging can creep up on you, writes Lesley Keith
W
ell here’s another issue and so Note to self – never leave the house without much has happened since my last checking my finished makeup first. column. The wedding in France of One thing for sure, although a privilege denied my daughter that I to many, ageing is not for sismentioned last time has come sies. It sort of creeps up on you and gone. The bride looked gordoesn’t it, well it certainly has Suddenly geous, the groom handsome, on me. One minute you hardly the weather glorious and the everyone seems have to give your appearance venue perfect. France is a a thought and then that first to be mumbling grey hair becomes the whole beautiful country and where we were was especially so. Ev- and high heels are head, actually the whole body! erything went to plan. No travel (Hands up who was expectdefinitely out hitches, not one problem at all ing that? No, I thought not, over the three days. Amazing me neither). Suddenly everywhat a bit of planning can do, I one seems to be mumbling, must take that on board! Everyyour contact lenses become one looked lovely and smiled the whole time too uncomfortable to wear so you need the so I think we can say the whole thing was a dreaded varifocals because your arms aren’t marvellous success. long enough to hold things far enough away I was quite pleased with my look too, my to read. High heels are definitely out dress flattered, my hair eventually behaved because they make your feet once I’d found a hairdryer with a Europehurt too much and an plug, and my make-up was certainly you even start congoing well right up to the point sidering elasticated I put my glasses back on. Yes waistbands, then my eyesight’s not what it was throw in the fact and at home I always that you have to use the magnifyshop in completely ing mirror but different places there wasn’t as nothing is even one at the closely suitable in weddin g the shops you used venue. to use and there you
CONGRATS: Lesley with daughter
have it, the ageing dilemma. You know how you want to look but it’s no longer possible. I remember one lunchtime about 5 years ago, I was in a big shop and a rather frumpy, cross looking, overweight woman was in my way. When I looked her in the eye I realised it was a full length mirror, reflecting me, oh how I laughed - not! So one of the wonderful things I found about
By Lesley Keith
living here is that everything is much more casual, for instance clothes are loose and forgiving. The over coiffed, fully made up look really doesn’t work as it’s far too formal and frankly looks pretty daft around the pool or on the beach. One of the greatest beauty aids must be a genuine smile, which us lucky lot that live here wear permanently, together with a light golden tan exuding health and warmth. Surely everyone finds that attractive? Let’s face it, how many super models are out there and how many normal sized women, yet which do we aspire to? Why do we feel the need to be something we’re not? The food and drink here is amazing and I’m going to enjoy it, perhaps I’m heavier than I should be but at least the fat puffs out the wrinkles! Bikini days may be long gone, but I’m happy to wear one piece costumes that pull in a lot of the flabby bits and coever the rest with a matching and stylish sarong. I’m saying all this but I still won’t leave the house without make up on or doing my hair, I always thought I’d grow old gracefully whatever that means. Who I’m doing it all for is anyone’s guess, innocence is bliss, if I just left my glasses off and avoided catching sight of my reflection in a shop window I’d be a happy bunny surely. I also feel for my partner though, he’s in total denial. I was pointing out someone to him the other day and he asked if I meant the old boy in the corner. “Yes I do darling, but that ‘old boy’ is actually ten years younger than you. “
Costa del Crime capering
A
FTER the shocking San Pedro slaying of a suspected drug lord earlier this month, it seems Marbella could be heading back to the dark and dodgy days of what the British tabloids loved to call the ‘Costa del Crime’. I moved to Marbella in the 80s, in the days before Britain and Spain had an extradition treaty. Old style London gangsters such as Kray Twins associate Freddie Foreman, Great Train Robber Charlie Wilson and Brinks Matt Job suspect and ex husband of Barbara Windsor Ronnie Knight were all living on the coast, although the papers were perhaps playing fast and loose with the truth when they described Ronnie as having a villa ‘in the hills overlooking Marbella’. He lived in Benalmadena. You would have to build a pretty impressive roof terrace to see Puerto Banus from there… Some of them had legitimate businesses, so you would bump into them from time to was none other than the man who the pretime – my mother famously met Foreman vious week had been splashed across the who commented “Sally Brown? I’ve heard so ‘Daily Record’ as a major drug importer who much about you…” - and I unwittingly once was currently on Glasgow’s ‘Most Wanted’ attended a restaurant opening owned by list. one of Glasgow’s biggest drug “Brent!” I hissed, “Do you barons. know who that guy is?” My best mate Brenty and I had “Him?” said my mate, nonI looked over been doing our Marbella teenchalantly downing yet anothage beach bum thing and got er glass of cava. “Oh, that’s from my nibbles, chatting to a pretty young ScotHeather’s Dad”. tish girl, who we’ll call Heather. spotted a large Brenty was most upset with She invited us to her Dad’s new me as I hustled him out of the figure and froze business opening that night, so door seconds later. all suited and booted, shoulder The ‘Costa del Crime’ days pads and hairsprayed up – it came to an end soon afterwas the mid 80s – Brenty and wards, with Foreman arrested I rocked up to the restaurant. It was a lavish and deported one morning from his Banus affair, and we both got stuck into the cham- apartment and Wilson slain in the garden of pagne and canapés with gusto. his Marbella villa. And after our experience, About an hour into the proceedings, I looked Brenty and I decided not to go to any restauover from my nibbles, spotted a large figure rant openings for a long time… in the middle of the room, and froze. This
-final -finalofofSpanish SpanishTVTVtalent talentshow show- -final of3065 Spanish TV talent show 3065 views views 3065 views
31
SOCIALMEDIA SOCIALMEDIA SOCIALMEDIA www.theolivepress.es OlivePressNewspaper OlivePressNewspaper
Sport
OlivePressNewspaper
olivepress olivepress olivepress
Dreams BE‘APPY! ‘APPY! BE BE ‘APPY! dashed
+TheolivepressEs +TheolivepressEs +TheolivepressEs
A SPANISH-Moroccan player will miss the World Cup after his appeal to play for Morocco was rejected. Barcelona star Munir El HadDownload our ourapp appnow nowand and dadi, whose fatherDownload is MorocDownload our from app now and can, has been barred begin beginenjoying enjoyingthethebest bestSpanish Spanish begin enjoying best Spanish switching national teamstheby news newsononthethego.go. FIFA’s Players’ ComnewsStatus on the go. mittee. El Haddadi had made a cameo appearance for Spain's senior side in their 5-1 thrashing of Macedonia on September 8, 2014, during the Euro 2016 qualifiers, and will not be able to represent the Atlas The Olive Olive Press Press Lions in Russia. TheThe Olive Press He had dreamed of repreTOP TOP for for news newsininSpain! Spain! senting his father’s country at TOP for news in Spain! the World Cup. "Such decision is now confirmed and the request to change the sporting nationality of Munir El Haddadi from Spain to Morocco remains denied," read a statement from the Court of Arbitration of Sport.
A win for Rafael Nadal at the Italian Open was the perfect preparation leading into the Grand Slam at Roland Garros
GUTTED: Munir
RAFAEL Nadal will go into the French Open as the world number one after defeating Alexander Zverev to win a record eighth Italian Open. His win in Rome means that the Manacor native has now also won three
ISIS fanatics have threatened to behead Spain footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup in Russia, in a series of distressing posters. One of the photoshopped images shows the Barcelona and Real Madrid stars being pinned down by jihadists while they slit their throats on a pitch in a packed stadium. The caption, ‘Your blood will fill the ground’, featured below the shocking poster which shows the two best football players in the
SPAIN has been effectively disqualified from next year’s Rugby World Cup. The team were looking for a reprieve after an investigation into their defeat by Belgium which led to Romania qualifying. They had claimed the Romanian referee was biased. But the panel ruled that Spain - as well as Romania and Belgium - had
Rugby woes broke eligibility rules, with all three having points deducted. It means Russia has qualified instead, joining Ireland, Scotland and hosts Japan in Pool A.
Record breaker out of four clay court tournaments in the run up to Roland Garros. With Roger Federer sitting out the clay court season this year Nadal is the clear favourite to win a record 11th title in Paris. T h e
Spaniard had to dig deep to win in Rome after facing a stern fightback from the young German Zverev who took the second set 6-1. However, Nadal was able to turn the match back around in the third set after a long rain delay, triumphing 6-1 1-6 6-3. After the match ended, Zverev joked that the rain
Sickening world in agony. A second mocked-up image shows an extremist walking into a football stadium filled with thousands carrying what looks like a small bomb in his hand. Above the scene a chilling message reads: ‘Islamic State - Fifa World Cup Russia 2018 - Victory will be ours’.
spaidart@spaidart.com
SHOCKING: ISIS threat
One Experience Beyond Art
was not his friend. “No, it’s not but it happens,” the 21 year old said. “He came out way faster and played way more aggressive than I did. “It took me a long time to get activated again, I ran out of time. “The break took my momentum away.” The German will be ranked as the 2nd seed in Paris and if he can replicate his three set form over five, he could challenge again. “Tennis is tennis - best of three, best of five,” Nadal said when questioned. “Five sets is best for the best players and Sacha is one of the best players.” In the women’s competition Elina Svitolina defeated world number one Simona Halep to retain her title.
GOODBYE: Iniesta
Farewell ANDRES Iniesta has played his last game for his boyhood club. Barca gave Iniesta the perfect send-off when they hosted Real Sociedad on Sunday. The 34-year-old midfielder announced he would be leaving the club he has played at since he was 12 last month. He will reportedly move to Japan to play in the Far East. The club paid an emotional tribute to their captain, with an elaborate mosaic reading 'Infinite Iniesta' in Catalan displayed by fans in their Nou Camp stadium.
Smash hit TWO former Grand Slam champions will face off at this year’s WTA Mallorca Open. The Open which takes place between June 18 to 24 is seen as key preparation for the biggest grass court event of the season, Wimbledon. Both Victoria Azarenka and Angelique Kerber will be hoping to take the crown at the Santa Ponsa Tennis Academy, with two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka returning to the tour after maternity leave. However, they will face tough competition from Caroline Garcia and defending champion Anastasija Sevastova. Despite home favourite Garbine Muguruza sitting out the tournament, Mallorquins will still be able to get behind former world number six, bighitting Carla Suarez Navarro.
Instagram: spaidart
www.spaidart.es
Tel: (+34) 971 048 010
ESPAI D’ART FELANITX, MALLORCA
www.spaidart.com
(+34) 670 403 294
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
olivepressnews olivepressnews olivepressnews
3131
May 24th - June 6th 2018
Suite and Gallery – Private dinner – All in the same place
Suits you
Voted BEST
expat paper in Spain
Reuse Reduce Recycle We use recycled paper
Plummeting
FINAL WORDS
SPAIN will see a shortage of plums this year after heavy rainfall has affected harvest, delaying exports by three weeks.
BBQ bust
BRITISH tourists staying in Magaluf set fire to their apartment after trying to light a disposable BBQ in their hotel room. Firefighters rescued seven people.
Reality bites
AN investigation revealed Mallorca airport is infested by fleas and cockroaches after workers complained they need constant medical attention.
FREE
Vol. 2 Issue 29
www.theolivepress.es
May 24th - June 6th 2018
BIKINI CLAD: Brit
THE tourist season is well and truly underway in Mallorca. How do we know? Staff at Palma Airport snapped a photograph of a male tourist - believed to be British and on a stag do - arriving at baggage reclaim wearing nothing but a skimpy pink bikini. The man appeared in good spirits as he passed through the airport and he was cheered on by his friends, presumably for a big few days ahead.
Rama-dilemma Muslim in quandary at vagina factory during Ramadan holiday
A MUSLIM worker has spoken of his difficulty in working for Spain’s biggest fake vagina factory during Ramadan. The issue arose as Muslims are forbidden from having any sexual thoughts during Ramadan.
Artificial
The problem for Mamadou Barry, originally from Guinea, is that he is in charge of all the orders at the company Fleshlight, near Sevilla, which produces up to
By Laurence Dollimore
2,500 artificial private parts per day. “I normally try to go on holiday at that time,” he explained. “And if I can’t, I try to occupy my thoughts with other things to avoid thinking about it.” His family, who live in Almeria, are already shocked about his line of work, particularly when he visited them last year with one of the devices. “I put it on the table and
HARD WORKER: Immigrant Mamadou Barry
my mother first thought it was a lantern,” he added. “Being very religious, she was really shocked,”
he says, “But since my parents saw I was happy and they themselves liked the factory on a visit last
Cheeky Maccy Ds
year, they ended up supporting me.” Fleshlight Spain, an offshoot of its American parent company, has a turnover of almost €9 a year. The man behind the product Steve Shubin is as a former US police officer.
A BRITISH tourist has bared her buns after a heavy night out in Mallorca. In a viral clip shared on social media, the holidaymaker can be seen ordering a McDonalds with her derriere on full show to the restaurant. The video was reportedly filmed in Inca at around 11am. SNAPPED: Jurgen Klopp with expat Peter Bennett
Get in the Pool
LiveThurmusic - Fri - Sat
Contact us call 971 28 96 64 or Whatsapp +34 301 20 76 60
BIG FLASH AND FRIES: Brit bares behind in McDonalds
www.hoganspalma.com Monseñor Palmer 2 Palma De Mallorca, Spain
Pane-ful PHOTOS of a woman cleaning her windows in Spain have gone viral. The shocking images show the resident climbing out and around the windows of her apartment, in Santander, which is several stories high. The images were shared on the Facebook group ‘things that happen in Cantabria.’
LIVERPOOL FC have been soaking up the Spanish sun after taking part in some warm weather training in Marbella. It comes just before they are set to take on Real Madrid in the Champions League Final this Saturday. According to the club’s website the boys took part in a two-hour session comprising of physical and tactical drills as well as a competitive game of foot-tennis, in which the three-man team of Virgil van Dijk, Alberto Moreno and Danny Ings prevailed over the rest of their teammates.
FISHY: Spain shirt
Prawning it in! A SPANISH football shirt dubbed ‘one of the ugliest ever’ has become a smash hit… in Manchester. The shirt makers from Loja football club, in Granada, have had over 1,000 orders after it became a favourite at the Manchester National Football Museum. The shirt covered mostly with prawns is sponsored by local fish importers Mariscos Apolo.