RIP Maria
SPAIN’s oldest woman in the world has died at 117.
The family of Maria Branyas announced her death via social media on Tuesday.
In a post on her X account they wrote:
“A few days ago Maria told us: ‘One day I will leave here. I will not try coffee again, nor eat yoghurt…, I will also leave my memories, my reflections… and I will cease to exist in this body.
One day I don’t know, but it’s very close, this long journey will be over.
“‘Death will find me worn out from having lived so long, but I want it to find me smiling, free and satisfied’.” Maria was born to Spanish parents in San Francisco on March 4, 1907, but moved back to northern Spain when she was very young.
Scientists last year took samples from Maria in a bid to discover her secrets to a long life – and to develop cures for diseases.
She incredibly had no health complications other than hearing and mobility issues.
The ‘Super Grandmother’, who regularly updated her followers on X, beat Covid in 2020 and had survived the Spanish Civil War, a deadly earthquake in the US and a major fire.
The mantle of oldest person alive has now passed to 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka from Japan.
DESPITE a summer of apparently endless anti-tourist discontent in Spain, the latest opinion survey reveals a very different picture. It shows that 69% of the populace across the country have a ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ attitude towards tourists.
And three quarters give the country’s tourism industry – critical to the economy – a glowing report, with 75% saying it has a positive impact on their town or city. The results might come as a surprise after images of fed-up Barcelona residents shooting holidaymakers with water pistols reverberated around the world.
There have also been large ant-tourist demos in Tenerife, Mallorca and Malaga - although Valencia and Alicante seem to take a kinder view,
By Walter Finch
We love you really!
New poll shows majority of Spanish locals ‘value’ tourists despite wave of protests
with no major demonstrations. In fact, the discontented few who exhibit the strongest turismofobia seem to be a miniscule segment of society, with only 2% expressing a very negative view of tourists. A further 4% said they viewed tourists just ‘negatively’.
Meanwhile, a quarter of the Spanish population (25%) describe themselves as ‘neutral’. However, when you dig into the data some nuance does start to emerge. In the larger cities, such as Sevilla and Barcelona, the negative perception of tourists increases, with about 12% of residents expressing negative feelings.
Even among those who don’t, al- people in Spain do not think tourism is a growing problem, compared to 29% who do.
most half of the population (48%) see tourism as a growing problem in their city. And – perhaps tellingly – only 30% believed that their local governments were taking appropriate measures to tackle the negative effects of tourism.
In these large cities, 66% of the populace are fuming about the local town hall’s inability to limit tourist rentals.
In medium-sized cities, meanwhile, the negative perception is much lower, at around 4%, while a large majority (60%) of the locals do not see tourism as a growing problem in the city. Overall, 59% of
Only 8% of Spaniards think tourism has a negative impact in their town or city, although this grows to 15% in the large cities and seems to be trending negatively.
To support that thesis, most of the impacts of tourism cited in the survey were negative: 43% found that rent had gone up, 35% believed the cost of living had risen and 29% blamed tourism for an increase in noise at night.
On the other hand, 32% noted an increase in employment opportunities thanks to tourism and 19% thought it led to improvements in infrastructure.
Other negatives were more congestion and crowding (26%), increased dirt and litter (22%) and further gentrification (20%).
The results came in a YouGov poll
...or maybe not
which was part of a report entitled Impact of Tourism on the Resident Population. It surveyed 1,027 people around the country at the start of June.
“There is a certain segment of the local population that feels overwhelmed by tourism, confirming what has been appearing in the news in recent months,” the report admits.
Neglect
However, the ‘growth of employment opportunities and infrastructure development in cities’ have been listed as a plus side that offsets this negative sentiment.
“But the authorities must also remain vigilant and take measures to ensure that aspects such as public transportation, safety, and especially the proliferation of tourist accommodations do not neglect the needs of the residents,” it warns.
A BANNER opposing mass tourism appeared for the first time on a Costa Blanca beach on Sunday.
The 15-metre-long display was unfurled at the northern end of Javea’s Cala La Barraca. It was done at the initiative of the local anti-tourism group, Garrot.
A group spokesperson said that the beach ‘clearly symbolises’ the ‘perversion and trivialisation’ of mass tourism.
“Tourism is not a blessing but a curse that devastates everything it touches,” he added.
The protest follows a string of demos around Spain in places like Tenerife, Mallorca, Barcelona and Malaga that have attracted tens of thousands of people. So far, Alicante has been largely untouched by the movement.
See Viva España page 6
SOAKED: Tourists in Barcelona were shot with water pistols
DINNER SHOW: Tourists tuck in as protestors march past in Palma
Sick challenge
TWO young people were fined by the Guardia Civil for viral challenges on Guardamar’s Centro beach where they faked drowning incidents which required lifeguards to go into the sea.
Lynx attack
NATURALISTS say that rare Iberian Lynxes being bred on the hills of Lorca in Murcia are becoming targets of hunters with two animals found dead from gunshot wounds.
Health boost
A new 24-hour emergency health centre has been opened by San Javier council at the bottom end of La Manga in the Jardines de Veneziola, Luz Bahia Bajo development.
Lagoon lives
THE Mar Menor lagoon has recovered over 85% of its lost plant life according to scientists studying ecological improvements since the water became a ‘green soup’ in 2016.
A 90-YEAR-OLD woman has died in Murcia after being stabbed in the neck inside her own home.
Police arrested a 52-year-old man following the shocking incident in the small town of Puente Tocinos.
He has been remanded in custody.
An argument had broken out between the
GRANDMOTHER KILLED
victim’s grandson and the alleged attacker. When it became physical, the grandson fled to his grandmother’s house. It was then that the fight escalated, before the grandmother was stabbed
in the neck while trying to protect her grandson. A 31-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman had to be treated for shock. The investigation continues.
Brazen robbery
Statues worth hundreds of thousands of euros sold for scrap
THREE people have been arrested for stealing bronze statues worth nearly €300,000 from a fountain and selling them for scrap.
Albalat de la Ribera mayor, Jose Antonio Roig, contacted the Guardia Civil on August 5 to report the theft of two bronze figures designed by Manuel Boix valued at up to €95,000 each.
Two other sculptures suffered damage totalling €18,000.
The mayor was back in con-
By Alex Trelinski
tact with the Guardia two days later when a third statue was stolen.
The thieves then returned for a third time on August 12 when they tried unsuccessfully to steal another statue.
They tried to rip it off its plinth with a tow rope attached to a car, which had its number plates covered up. All of the incidents were re-
A WOMAN was tricked out of over €140,000 by believing she was in an online romantic relationship with a man in the United States.
The Guardia Civil arrested the alleged female perpetrator of the scam - aged 26when she was about to fly out of Spain from Alicante-Elche airport.
The victim told the Guardia that she was in contact with a man who told her he had
CAR CON
A MOTHER and son from Elche ran a con that made €800,000 from acquiring financed luxury cars and not making payments on them. The Spaniards got 14 vehicles through a company owned by them and then transferred the ownership to another firm in their name.
The cars were then sold by the duo, who were later arrested.
corded on security cameras and just hours later, officers found the vehicle at a
Love scammer
been admitted to hospital in Chicago and needed help with his expenses.
The woman made numerous bank transfers. All of the bank transfers and cash ended up in Nigeria where the bogus social network profiles were created.
A THIEF spent his six days after being freed from prison by robbing a dozen homes in the Rojales area.
The 29-year-old man stole and used several bank cards in ATMs with the Guardia Civil launching an operation to track him down.
He was arrested in his car and charged with 14 crimes. The thief appeared before a Torrevieja judge who - in his wisdom - granted him bail.
metal recycling facility on a Corbera industrial estate.
Inside the car were two brothers and a woman who were caught on CCTV at the fountain.
Both men had existing criminal records for theft.
Guardia officers also visited recycling units in Paterna and Alzira where they recovered two of the stolen sculptures which were returned to Albalat council.
A MOROCCAN fugitive, 33, wanted on human trafficking charges has been arrested in Dolores. He has an international arrest warrant in his name, demanding his extradition to his home country.
Icy protocol
AS temperatures soar zoo animals have been given ice-cream treats to help them cool down.
mixed
gibbons
Bioparcs in Fuengirola and Valencia have mixed fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and insects into special frozen blends designed for each species’ dietary needs.
Gorillas, chimpanzees, gibbons and lemurs are some of the animals which enjoyed colourful sorbets made with fruit and vegetables.
For tigers and leopards, ice pops made of meat and blood were hidden around their habitats to help them cool off and activate their hunter instincts.
Meerkats, on the other hand, munched on ice cubes filled with worms and grasshoppers.
Have a heart!
Horse-drawn carriages and donkey taxis in the sights of activists as temperatures soar
ANIMAL rights activists are ramping up calls to end horsedrawn carriages and donkey rides across Spain, particularly amid soaring summer temperatures.
The issue has come to the fore despite the introduction of new guidelines in Mijas (Malaga) prohibiting donkey taxis during extreme heat conditions after video emerged of some of the animals collapsing. While the municipality’s decision to ban donkey taxi operations during orange and red heat alerts has been welcomed by some, animal welfare groups argue it is merely a superficial measure. Laura Riera, equine lead for the Foundation for the Assessment and Action in Defence of Animals (FAADA), described the new rules as a ‘clever ploy’ to appease public concerns af-
EXCLUSIVE
By
“They’ve done this so the public feels better but it doesn’t stop it being animal abuse.”
She also criticised horse drawn carriages popular in cities like Sevilla and Malaga. Riera says the ‘intelligent’ creatures are not given even the ‘minimum amount of care’.
“They have to spend all day tied up, they can’t rest properly, they can’t wander. It’s not even the minimum level of wellbeing,” she said.
“They have leg and muscle problems and if they rebel, they put mouth guards or bosals on to restrict them.
ROBERT De Niro has been spotted enjoying the culinary delights of one of Spain’s most historic cities.
The Hollywood legend, 80, was pictured with top chef Benito Gomez (right) after eating at his two-Michelin-star restaurant Bardal in Ronda, inland Malaga.
De Niro tucked into the €180, 18 dishes, set menu, which includes such delights as raw
a
“Most learn to accept their own powerlessness and become extremely depressed. They’re the ones with sad eyes, head down. If they were free they would play and have fun.”
According to the equine expert, the animals should not work in temperatures above 25C, restricting them to the winter months when fewer tourists visit Spain.
Ronda de Niro
vegetables and elderflowers broth, squid with Payoyo cheese; chicken skin and shrimp and eel Gazpachuelo followed by sweet potato and orange.
But the 18 dishes were not quite enough. Gomez said that De Niro was ‘hungry’ so also tried some croquettes and ‘left delighted’.
“The heat affects donkeys and horses much more than people,” Riera explained.
“Their body temperatures rise much faster than ours and it's dangerous, they can get dehydrated, have health problems, and cramps. It’s brutal”
Yolanda Morales, spokesperson for the animal rights political party, PACMA, agrees: “None of the ‘rules’ regarding horse carriages or donkey riding are legally binding, they’re just recommendations.
“We need to end this. Animals are not here to serve us, these are tourist attractions that were perhaps very popular in their time but have no place today.”
The politician suggested that tourist attractions ‘evolve’, using tuktuks, tourist buses or even bikes instead.
She also pointed to Palma, Mallorca, where horses were replaced with motorised carriages.
Opinion Page 6
Now Alejandro Gomez AKA Palomo Spain, the 31-yearold Andalucian, has been recognised by Spain’s Ministry of Culture with the National Design Award.
Fluid by design
fashion show in London in 2016.
sign industry’.
Judges described his designs as ‘the work of a creator who has
It is hard to argue that his men’s wear collection is not unique, using daring materials such as chiffon, feathers and beads and more feminine themes than usually modelled by men.
Indeed, his latest collection even included a ‘man bra’.
VINICIUS OFFER
REAL Madrid’s Vinicius Junior has been offered a whopping €1 billion to sign up for the Saudi Pro League - with another billion to go to the Spanish club.
The Brazilian international star, 24, would be bought out of his contract by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Sources close to the player confirmed the approach, which would also make him an ambassador for the 2034 World Cup that is set to be hosted by Saudi Arabia. That deal would last for 10 years and be separate to his playing contract.
Reports say he would earn €200m per season for five years with bonuses to be added on top.
Another source claims Real Madrid have no interest in letting Vinicius leave unless the Saudis cough up a €1 billion buy-out clause.
ter a video emerged showing
donkey collapsing in the heat, as the Olive Press revealed in our last issue.
Yzabelle Bostyn
ANIMAL ABUSE: Donkeys still working despite heat
BEACH FREEBIE
FREE dispensers containing factor 50 sunscreen have been installed on Los Alcazares beaches in a council campaign called Enjoy the sun Responsibly.
The initiative follows the concept started on several beaches in Galicia.
Los Alcazares mayor, Mario Perez Cevera, said: “Thanks to the dispensers, there will be around 70,000 people on our beaches during the summer season who will benefit.”
The units were installed last week and each of them has a 10-litre capacity, which normally lasts a week and will be refilled by the lifeguard team.
The complementary dispensers are set to be extended to outdoor shopping areas within Los Alcazares and the mayor has more plans for next year, including shaded zones with water stations and medical facilities.
Waste of time
RAIL operator Renfe has been told to scrap its direct AVE fast train service from Murcia/Alicante to Malaga because it is a ‘failure’.
The call has come from Murcia-based consumer group, Consumur, despite the new route via Madrid only launching on June 1.
The journey from Murcia and Alicante takes around seven hours, with 10 stops including Albacete, Ciudad Real, and Cordoba.
Departure times are 3.32pm from Murcia and 8.05am from Malaga.
Consumur president, Roberto Barcelo, said “This line has been a resounding failure with the route an absolute aberration as it takes ages to reach either Murcia or Malaga.”
Barcelo argued the timetable doesn’t respond to the needs of people travelling for work and is simply aimed at tourists.
Katy video shoot row
BALEARICS officials are looking into a new Katy Perry pop music video shot in Formentera that may have caused environmental damage.
Footage was taken on the protected sand dunes of the islet of s’Espalmador, which is part of the Ses Salines de Eivassa and Formentera natural park.
Despite claims from Katy Perry's record label that they had received verbal authorisation to film, the Balearic Government has categorically denied granting any permits, either written or verbal.
Perry recorded the video for her song Lifetimes around Ibiza and Formentera.
Scenes feature the American singer dancing and jumping in different locations, including urban areas, a busy nightclub and in natural landscapes, such as the s’Espalmador dune system.
That was done within an area that is blocked off by ropes and fencing indicating clearly that entry was prohibited and all the recording equipment had been taken inside as well.
Passports please
Date given for the start of the EU’s new passport control system that could cause havoc at borders
THE European Union’s long-awaited new passport system has finally been given a definite start date.
From November 10, nonEU travellers entering the Schengen Area, including British tourists, will face stricter border controls as the Entry/Exit System (EES) becomes operational.
The EES will require nonEU citizens to scan their passports at self-service kiosks when entering and leaving the bloc.
However it won’t apply to EU residents, including British TIE holders in Spain.
While the system aims to improve security and reduce overstays, there are
Four-legged
The
The
no charges being brought against him.
By Walter Finch
fears it could lead to long queues at border control – especially at Dover and Gibraltar.
“There may have been times you believed it would never happen,” EU Home
Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said of the EES.
“But it's going to happen.
“Everything is coming together. We’re in the final testing phase. There is a real momentum now. Carriers, operators, train stations, airports, everyone is getting ready for the big day.”
The system will collect biometric data, including facial scans and fingerprints, and record entry and exit times, making it much harder for visitors to overstay the 90-days-in-180 rule.
While authorities claim to be working to minimise disruption, travellers are advised to allow extra time for border checks when planning their trips.
However, Guy Opperman, a former UK transport minister, has since explained
Keep them clean
OVER 1,200 people took part in this month’s Alicante beach awareness campaign. The City Council staged You Make Alicante at Albuferta, Postiguet, San Juan and Urbanova beaches with information workshops mixed in with games for children. Alicante’s cleaning and waste management councillor, Manuel Villar, said: “The campaign was aimed at residents and visitors to keep our beaches clean of rubbish that is left in the sand and multiplies over the summer due to the big population rise.”
the scheme will have a ‘sixmonth soft launch’ to iron out any inevitable wrinkles.
“We will know if people stay too long, countering irregular migration,” Johansson said.
“And the EES will make it harder for criminals, terrorists or Russian spies to use fake passports thanks to biometric identification, photos and fingerprints.”
British government agencies and travel industry representatives have warned of potential chaos
at border crossings.
The EES is just one part of a wider overhaul of border controls.
From 2025, travellers will also need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before their trip.
For the price of €7, this additional permission to enter the Schengen zone is likely to add to processing times. The ETIAS will be valid for three years, or until the owner’s passport expires.
BOY’S BALCONY RESCUE
A YOUNG Alicante boy diced with death on Calle Orense on Monday when he climbed over the balcony railings of a second floor flat. It left him straddled over the glass partition with one slip meaning he could have fallen to the ground.
As people on the street watched, a neighbour called Felipe climbed off his balcony and edged along a ledge to rescue the boy.
Four environmental teachers toured the beaches to emphasise pollution problems caused by the dumping of cigarette butts and plastics. Anybody who found rubbish in the sand, was able to bring it to an information stand to exchange it for a pen.
Population boom
ALICANTE province’s population has broken the two million mark for the first time according to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) - fuelled by foreign arrivals. Based on municipal padron registrations, the population in July stood at 2,008,809. A decade ago it was 1,845,264, meaning an increase of over 150,000 registered residents. The figures also show a rise of 31,883 residents compared to a year ago. Compared to the first quarter of 2024, 6,100 people were added to the total and nearly 5,000 are non-Spanish nationals. Alicante province now has 472,701 residents of foreign nationality - 26% of the population.
According to INE forecasts for the next decade, the foreign population will account for a third for the province’s total.
FAR-RIGHT agitator Tommy Robinson has returned to his safe haven bolt hole in Spain. He was most recently spotted in an Indian restaurant in his regular getaway of Albir on the Costa Blanca.
Real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, he was reportedly ‘seen on the phone to his brother, discussing his legal issues and the unrest in the UK’. Albir, a 10-minute drive from Benidorm, was Lennon’s base of operations last summer after the Olive Press revealed that he had been using a luxury villa belonging to a British billionaire to film his podcast.
An investigation by this newspaper found that Lennon had been granted access to the €1.6 million property owned by former-highstreet fashion tycoon Phillip Day.
A spokesperson for Day denied that the billionaire had any knowledge of which individuals had access to one of his many properties on the Costa Blanca.
HERO: Felipe came to the rescue
AN Elche police officer opened the door of a city grocery store on Monday and was greeted by a shirtless man riding a horse.
stunned copper made a gesture to the rider to leave the premises and his steed responded to his clicking noise to vacate the shop.
man then left the horse outside while he popped back into the store twice but did not appear to have bought anything. He then mounted his steed and galloped off down the street, with apparently
A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in
OPINION
Kick the tradition
SPAIN’s cruel tradition of offering donkey and horse rides to tourists in the sweltering summer heat must end.
The practice has long been under scrutiny and with good reason, the animals cannot regulate their body heat as well as humans and should not be ‘put to work’ in temperatures above 25C.
If this limit were adhered to, that would mean limiting horse and donkey services to just the winter months.
Clearly, this is necessary as a horse collapsed and died of a heart attack during Sevilla’s Feria de Abril.
Better yet, the practice should be banned completely and replaced with more ethical and environmentally friendly measures.
Catalunya and Mallorca have banned horse drawn carriages, replacing them with alternatives such as electric carriages, tuk tuks, bikes and small electric cars.
Far from damaging the tourism trade, business is still booming in these areas, with Barcelona and Mallorca becoming the focal points of a nationwide anti-tourism debate.
Catalunya has long been ahead of the times when it comes to animal rights, being one of the first regions of Spain to ban bullfighting.
They are an example to follow thanks to the innovative ways they have reinvigorated spaces once used for the spectacle.
From concert venues to shopping centres to rooftop bars, Barcelona’s bull rings are now hives of modern urban culture.
Their great success is a sign that Spain must break up with its antiquated traditions, which rather than supporting tourism, put off a lot of visitors. It is a stain on beautiful cities like Sevilla and Valencia to see animals suffering in their streets. Many go without water and breaks for days on end as city officials fail to enforce the recommendations put in place for animal wellbeing.
Clearly, the mistreatment will continue until officials in Madrid make a nationwide mandate to stop this abuse.
PUBLISHER / EDITOR
Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es
Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es
Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es
Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es
(+34) 951 154 841 admin@theolivepress.es
Simon Hunter simon@theolivepress.es
Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es
Ben Pawlowski ben@theolivepress.es
theolivepress.es
CELEBRITY showdown
Look no further than Ibiza and Marbella if you want to spot celebs - but who has been where?
SPAIN’S glamorous coastline has long been a playground for the rich and famous, with Marbella and Ibiza emerging as the top contenders for celebrity hotspots.
While the likes of Mark Zuckerburg, Leonardo DiCaprio and Michael Jordan have sailed megayachts into Ibiza, plenty of sportspeople have chosen to enjoy the glitzy nightlife of Marbella.
But which luxury coastal enclave do the elite prefer?
Celeb-spotter Yzabelle Bostyn investigates.
theolivepress.es
Marbella, the crown jewel of the Costa del Sol, boasts a reputation for opulence and
personalities seem particularly drawn to the area.
Football legend Wayne Rooney took a breather from his new role as Plymouth Argyle manager to give his verdict on the Euro 2024 final at a swanky event in Mar-
and
He gave his opinion ahead of the Euros final, declaring a 2-1 England win.
However, gland Spain’s igy, celebrated win bella.
The Manchester United legend jetted into Spain with
However, it wasn’t to be for England as Spain defeated the side 2-1 in Berlin.
Spain’s football prodigy, Lamine Yamal celebrated the win in Marbella, declaring it ‘very
Marbella
SET to surpass Japan as the country with the world's longest life expectancy by 2040, Spain, it seems, may hold the key to human longevity.
At 85.8 years, Spain’s life expectancy by that date will far surpass that of other rich countries like the United States (76.3) and the United Kingdom (80.7).
Other countries expected to have life expectancies surpassing 85 years include Japan, Singapore, and Switzerland, according to a study published in The Lancet.
Pointing the way in this trend is the fact that the former oldest person in the world, Maria Branyas Morera, was Spanish.
The 117-year-old Catalan unfortunately died on Tuesday, August 20 after living through both World Wars and the Spanish Civil War. She is the eighth oldest person to ever have lived.
Maria is succeeded by Tomiko Itooka (below), an 116-year-old Japanese woman born in 1908.
Recent Eurostat data reveals that the Spanish Community of Madrid has Europe’s second highest life expectancy for men, at 82.2 years, behind Aland, Finland.
Spain is set to overtake Japan as the nation with longest-lived residents
By Cole Sinanian
On the other hand, the highest life expectancies for women - who are almost universally expected to live longer than men - are all in Spain.
In Madrid, women are expected to live 88.2 years, while in Navarra it’s 87.6 and in Castilla y Leon, 87.5.
But Barcelona Autonomous University demographic researcher Elisenda Rentería Perez cautions against hailing Madrid as an urban fountain of youth.
Viva España
death globally.
One study from 2018 tracked major cardiac events in three groups of 55-80-year-olds, and found those on Mediterranean diets high in olive oil and nuts suffered fewer heart attacks and strokes than those on standard low-fat diets.
And though it’s fallen out of fashion in recent years, the Mediterranean diet still plays a significant role in Spanish culture, with Spain consistently ranking among the world’s top olive oil consumers.
While the ailments that might prevent one from reaching old age are primarily prevented through diet, genetics are most influential in producing centenarians.
“Madrid attracts people with a high income and education level, and that’s why their life expectancy is higher,” she told The Olive Press.
“And the same thing happens with regions of lower life expectancy, where there are worse living conditions,” she said.
“No matter how well you look after yourself throughout your life, if you don’t have that genetic makeup, then you’re not going to make it to 100,” Consuelo Borrás, a University of Valencia physiology lecturer, told The Guardian.
“But when it comes to normal longevity – living to 85 – your lifestyle is more important than your genetic makeup,” she said.
Researchers often point to diet, lifestyle and genetics as the most important factors influencing longevity, and the Mediterranean diet — one high in olive oil, fruits, nuts and vegetables, and low in red meat, dairy, sugar and highly processed foods — has been long known as a key to reaching old age.
That’s largely because it’s rich in hearthealthy foods known to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of
Aspects of Spain’s healthcare system may also help explain the longevity of its people. Increased public health spending has been shown to both increase overall life expectancy, as well as years of healthy life — ie, years lived into old age without suffering from a debilitating condition or terminal illness.
A 2022 study by researchers from the Barcelona Autonomous University — which Pérez co-authored — found that public health has a significant effect on the management and prognosis of diseases in peo-
Coleen
the family to speak at the Clubhouse in La Sala restaurant in Puerto Banus.
WHO’S WHO: Can you spot Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, Wayne Rooney, Conor McGregor and Keely Hodgkinson in Marbella, and Carlos Leo DiCaprio and Vittoria Ceretti (plus a few friends) in Ibiza
NOT SO SWIFT
10 years on, Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium renovation finally complete
PROPERTY prices are climbing ever higher in Spain as demand outstrips supply.
Since 2019, only the Balearics have seen faster price rises than Andalucia, according to a report by BBVA Research.
Both new and existing homes have increased in price by over 20% since 2019. Despite the boom, BBVA estimates prices are yet to reach the peaks of the previous real estate bubble from two decades ago.
Current prices are still 9% below those levels (8% for new homes and 10% existing) with only Madrid and the Balearics having surpassed prices
MODERN MIRACLES
The minimalist theme of new Spanish churches
See page 8
WHEN Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium hosted Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, all eyes were on the pop superstar.
But for the football club the real star of the show was the stadium itself. Swift’s concert marked the first occasion the ground was fully open - albeit ‘unofficially’ - after a massive revamp some 10 years after the plans were first announced.
But now it has been ‘officially’ unveiled.
It took €1.8 billion - about €1 billion more than initially planned - for architects GMP Architekten, L35, and Ribas & Ribas to transform it into a multifaceted public attraction, boasting a Real Madrid Museum, dining and retail spaces, and a skywalk offering panoramic views.
It also boasts a sliding roof and even an underground ‘greenhouse’ where the turf pitch can be retracted for optimal growing conditions.
A striking feature of the stadium is its sinuous stainless steel facade. This metallic skin, designed to conceal the original concrete structure, gives the Bernabeu a distinctive, sculptural form.
“The curved stainless steel louvres have imbued the Bernabeu with a new identity, solidifying its status as a Madrid landmark,” said a spokesman for GMP Architekten. “From afar, the metal facade shimmers like a jewel, reflecting light in countless ways.”
Beyond aesthetics, the metal cladding serves a functional purpose. Horizontal gaps between the louvres allow natural ventilation for the stadium's interior.
By Walter Finch
from 2000.
The Canary Islands has seen the sharpest rise with houses being 16.4% more expensive than a year ago. It is followed by the Balearics (11.9%), the Valencian Community (11.5%), the Community of Madrid (11.5%), Murcia (8.8%), Andalucia (8.7%). By province, 45 have higher prices than a year ago, led by Santa Cruz de Tener-
The renovation also increased seating capacity by 3,000 to 85,000, added VIP and hospitality lounges.
STILL GOING UP
ife, where seller expectations rose by 18.6%, with Las Palmas (13.5%) second and Malaga (12.2%) third. By cities, the most significant rise was in Malaga, where prices grew by 18.2%, followed by Alicante (18%), Soria (17%) and Valencia (16.1%).
The smallest rises were in Melilla (0.3%), followed by Pamplona (1.1%), Palencia (1.8%), Vitoria (2.1%), and Pontevedra (2.4%).
The price of property in Madrid is now €4,622 sqm, while in Barcelona
it stands at €4,477 sqm.
Across Spain house prices rose by 3.9% in 2023 and 4.3% in the first quarter of 2024, with forecasts predicting a 5% increase in 2024 and 4.7% in 2025.
According to BBVA’s Real Estate Observatory 2024 report, key factors driving this trend include a booming economy, higher family incomes, demand from foreigners and lower interest rates.
The most affordable regions are Cas-
tilla-La Mancha (€939), Extremadura (€976) and Castilla y León (€1,198). While Spanish authorities urgently try to build new houses, supply is still expected to fall short of meeting the growing demand.
BBVA forecasts 120,000 construction permits in 2024, an increase of 10,000 from the previous year. The first four months of 2024 saw a 14.8% growth in permits compared to the same period last year, indicating a new construction cycle driven by increased demand. However, challenges such as zoning issues, labour shortages, and regulatory uncertainty continue to hinder new projects.
November 29th - LOOKING FOR MORE PROPERTY
Heavenly DESIGNS
SPAIN’s ancient churches are some of the nation’s most famous architectural gems. They display a variety of architectural styles reflecting the various eras from which they originate , from Mudejar to Renaissance and Baroque.
But a new minimalistic church in Tenerife has shown that the era of great religious architecture is by no means over in Spain.
The Holy Redeemer Church of Las Chumberas in San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, has just won the 2024 ‘Frate Sole’ international pri-
How the architects of modern churches are taking a minimalist approach
By Dilip Kuner
ze for sacred architecture. Fernando Menis is the man behind the design and has described it as a ‘labour of love and dedication’ for the tight-knit community and the ‘evolution of a collective dream’ that took 15 years to build.
BUILT in 2013 this church accommodates 400 people, with a daily chapel for 100.
The parish centre includes offices, multi-purpose rooms, classrooms, priest residences, and a guest room.
The building, surrounded by eight-story structures, occupies a site between two squares. Its design focuses on connecting these squares, creating a central atrium for gathering and urban interaction.
The church aligns with the street's rhythm, seamlessly integrating into the neighborhood. A rooftop patio provides light while preserving privacy.
It draws on the local volcanic landscape to create an austere space which incorporates natural light, energy efficiency, and acoustic quality.
The church is by no means alone in showcasing modern architectural trends being brought into religious buildings.
Of these, the influence of minimalism on contemporary Spanish religious architecture is undeniable. This ar-
San Jorge Church, Pamplona
Architects: Tabuenca & Leache
The Church of St. John Paul II, Entrepinos
tistic and philosophical movement, which seeks simplicity in form and function, has left a profound mark on the design of modern churches. Minimalist architects aim to create interior spaces that invite reflection and contemplation. Large windows and high ceilings allow for abundant natural li-
THIS small community church completed in 2008 is nestled in a residential green space. Its rounded design, resembling a sculpted form, stands out in the landscape. The building's mass is divided by an exterior atrium and bell tower, creating a sense of excavation. Large granite base and limestone cladding contribute to the monolithic appearance. The interior features a single nave with a double-height space expanding into a side chapel. A floating choir and hidden light sources enhance the sculptural feel. The chapel, presbytery, and auxiliary spaces are unified by a wooden latticework.
The Holy Redeemer Church of Las Chumberas, San Cristobal de La Laguna
ght, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Wood, stone, and concrete are common materials in minimalist churches. Their natural textures and colors contribute to a sense of connection with the earth and the divi-
Architects: VZ Arquitectos and balance. Furniture light to take center stage. previous centuries.
is reduced to the essentials: benches, altars, and pulpits. Clean lines and simple shapes create a clear and focused spiritual environment. White, gray, and beige colors predominate in minimalist churches. These tones create a neutral background that allows architecture and It is a far cry from the frequently ornate, intricately carved decor of
Here we bring you a selection of some of the best and most unusual churches designed in the 21st century…
La Ascensión del Señor Church, Sevilla
Architects: AGi Architects
THE Parish Centre expansion aims to strengthen community engagement and spiritual growth. The design focuses on economical and sustainable solutions, using simple construction techniques.
A large central courtyard connects the church and other facilities, while two smaller
courtyards serve specific liturgical areas. The main entrance welcomes visitors and invites them inside. The roof's unique shape introduces natural light, defining different liturgical spaces. The architects aim to create a space that addresses community needs and fosters a sense of belonging.
Architect: Fernando Menis
Alicante’s new home price hike
PRICES for new homes in Alicante province have rocketed to levels not seen since 2008 according to a study on new housing in the region.
Values are rising to more than €2,000 per m2 and even higher in some coastal areas.
Benidorm has seen the biggest rise in new build prices - up 5% compared to last year to reach almost €2,300 per m2.
It’s followed by neighbouring Villajoyosa at around €1,600 - a 4.5% hike. In the south of the region, Santa Pola is reporting prices at around €1,600 per m2, up by 3.7% on last year.
ONLY FOR LOCALS
Controversialproposaltoremedy excessive tourism would see foreignersbarredfrombuying propertyinMallorca
UNLESS you have lived in the Balearic Islands for years you won’t be allowed to buy there.
This is one controversial proposal by a local think tank looking at ways to remedy excessive tourism.
The Forum de la Societat Civil has come up with a total of 200 suggestions, after a debate was held in Palma last month. It comes after a series of heated protests blocked the centre of the city, with tourists made to feel uncomfortable.
The new suggestions include efforts to
FOREIGN home buyers looking for a Spanish property are mainly eyeing up Mediterranean coastal locations plus the Balearic and the Canary Islands.
The report by idealista highlights 120 areas where foreign demand represents more than 50% of the home buying market in sun and beach destinations.
In areas like Roses (Girona), Calpe (Alicante) and Andratx (Mallorca), foreign interest is over 65% in regard to searches made on the idealista website with people from France, the Netherlands, and Germany the most prominent.
Alicante province has the highest number of search locations, namely 30, where foreign interest exceeds 50% of the total demand.
Popular spots include Los Frutales in Torrevieja; the districts of Moraira de Moravit-Cap Blanc, Paichi or Pinar de Advocat-Cometa, all with a foreign demand
recover the historic quarters of Palma and other towns for residents, rather than just tourists.
Meanwhile the group wants to see the conversion of old and obsolete hotels into housing or infrastructure for locals such as cultural, technological and healthcare facilities.
The group has also come up with the idea of a maximum number of visitors
FOREIGNERS’ FAVOURITES
of between 64%-65% of the total, as well as areas of the Orihuela Costa like Playa Flamenca and La Zenia. The Balearic Islands have 28 locations, some of them attracting 67% of foreign interest including Cala Ratjada and Canyamel, in Mallorca, together with Andratx, including Port d'Andratx and Es Camp de Mar, and Cala Murada in Manacor.
In Malaga, the Nerja area stands out as does the Bay of Casares as well as the districts of Guadalobon, Buenas Noches and Bahia Dorada in Estepona, and Puerto Banus, in Marbella.
to the Balearics linked to the number of residents on the islands.
Spokesman Jaume Garau insisted foreigners buying property must first prove that they have resided in the community for a set number of years.
The suggestions are now to go in front of the regional government.
Spain has seen a series of unprecedented protests calling for a change to the country’s tourism model, as locals grapple with problems such rising house and rent prices, antisocial behaviour and noise.
Squirted
There have been protests in Malaga, the Canary Islands, the Balearics and Barcelona.
The protest in the Catalan capital made worldwide headlines after demonstrators squirted tourists with water pistols, taped off hotels and outdoor restaurant dining areas.
They also shouted slogans such as ‘Tourist go home’ at visitors.
Rental market heatingup
THE cost of renting a home in Spain has spiralled 10.4% in the past year. This surge is particularly noticeable in Barcelona and Malaga, where demand for rental properties remains high, according to idealista But rents have surged in all Spanish capitals compared to July last year, with the most substantial increase in Caceres (18.9%), followed by Palma (18.7%) and Valencia (17.6%).
Hotspots Madrid (16.1%), Barcelona (14.3%), Alicante (14.1%), and Malaga (13.6%) have all seen double digit rises in the past year.
Bargain hunters should look at Tarragona (1.9%), which saw the smallest increase, along with Zamora (2.9%), Cádiz (3.9%), Huelva (4.1%), and Pamplona (4.3%).
Barcelona continues to be the most expensive city to rent in, with a square metre on average costing €21.60, followed by Madrid (€19.80) and San Sebastian (€17.60). They are followed by Palma (€17.20), Malaga (€14.50) and Valencia (€14.10).
The price spiral has been blamed, in part, on the number of tourist rentals which reduce the long-term housing stock.
But experts have been quick to point the finger at last year’s new housing law, which made it more difficult to evict tenants, scaring landlords out of the market.
November 29th - LOOKING FOR MORE PROPERTY STORIES?
Hipster hangout
Hottest hotel of the summer, Los Felices, launches with host of celebrities and fashion designers
IT’S a style of hotel that rocked California’s inland retreat of Palm Springs in the 1960s.
And with over 100 fashion designers helping to inspire the suites and public areas it is bound to be a huge hit in Spain.
The huge raft of fashionistas, including Alejandro Gomez Palomo,
By Jon Clarke
Angel Nokonoko and Pepa Salazar, have lent their name to Los Felices (meaning ‘happy people’), in Ibiza.
Claiming to be the first hotel in the
world entirely dedicated to fashion, each designer has lent a garment to the six villas and 107 rooms.
The hotel on Sant Josep bay, near San Antonio, is showcasing the designers, many who are only now emerging onto
the Spanish scene.
At a launch party this month, dozens of them attended alongside Hollywood stars Paz Vega and Josh Hutcherson, famous for his role in the Hunger Games.
Interior architects Ilmiodesign have done an incredible job matching the style of the Sixties with its clean lines, pastel colours and
retro touches.
A riot of colours, quirky furniture and giant photos make up the lounge areas, while tall palm trees and cactus dominate the planting outside.
The rooms are buzzing, with Marshall speakers, bright colours and numerous products.
Meanwhile, a kiosk offers, natura-
lly, a host of fashion magazines for sale, as well as a range of stylish clobber.
The lucky few will get to stay in the UFO-shaped villas, designed by Danish architect Matti Suuronen back in the 70s.
His bright pink Futuro House is the backdrop to a stage, which will host fashion shows and concerts.
Part of the Concept Group’s chain of hotels, it opened this summer and costs from around €200 +a night in September.
A connected nightclub will open next year, while the restaurant Bambola di Grosso Napoletano fusing Italian with Spanish cuisine.
RETRO: Los Felices is inspired by 60s California
SPACE AGE: Designs that could have come straight from a 70s ‘space opera’
and fun’.
He has made two visits to the Costa del Sol
Spain’s Euros victory, alongside team-
They aren’t the only footballers who love the Costa del Sol.
Banus.
The 36-year-old held a press conference at the Hard Rock Marbella to promote the fight night, scheduled for October 12.
The pair partied at local venue, Mosh Fun Kitchen, although it lona player was also spotted
Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland toured Marbella, Sotogrande and Tarifa while visiting in June.
He was caught up in a police raid at Marbella beach club, Playa Padre and was even forced to hand over his ID to balaclava-wearing, machine gun-toting cops as hundreds of tourists identified themselves to police.
The Manchester City star has long favoured Marbella as a holiday destination and is not suspected of any wrongdoing.
A cradle of all things luxury.
IBIZA, the queen of the Balearic Islands, offers a more laidback yet undeniably glamorous atmosphere.
The Nordic giant was later spotted visiting Bolonia Beach in Tarfia after being seen in Sotogrande and at a petrol station in Algeciras with his blue Ferrari.
Following in Yamal’s footsteps, British gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson chose Marbella as the spot to celebrate her Olympics victory. She was spotted in Puerto Banus on Friday, August 9, celebrating becoming the third British woman to ever win the 800m running event at the Olympic Games.
A banner hung up in the yacht reads: "Congratulations on your gold medal Keely Hodgkinson."
But, it's not all play for the celebs in Marbella. Irish UFC champion Conor McGregor was there in July to promote his upcoming bare knuckle fighting event.
He was spotted in Versace speedos while lifting weights on his yacht, docked in Puerto
ple of advanced age.
“Nowadays, public health isn’t just about interventions,” said Perez, “but also about long-term treatments for chronic diseases, treatments that often only can be afforded with the public healthcare system.”
The study linked a number of factors to length of life after 55, including unemployment, GDP, education level, public healthcare spending, and concentration of specialist doctors.
The researchers found that a spending increase of €800 per person on public health translated to an additional 1.5 years of life expectancy for men at age 50 and 1.2 years for women.
Despite reports of shortages, Spain’s physician density has grown since the 1990s, now at around 448 per 100,000 inhabitants, making it the sixth-highest physician-dense country in the EU.
In terms of overall healthcare expenditure, Spain’s is rather modest compared to its northern neighbours, with healthcare
amounting to 10.7% of the country’s GDP, below the 10.9% EU average.
However, it’s worth noting that Spain’s per capita healthcare expenditure was the highest in all of Southern Europe, topping Italy’s at 4,290.
The people of Southern Europe, the region most commonly associated with the aforementioned Mediterranean diet, may have a greater tendency towards longer life spans due to genetic, dietary and lifestyle factors that, when combined with Spain’s marginal improvements in public healthcare, could help explain the superior longevity of Spanish people.
Pérez says the relationship between public healthcare and life expectancy has less to do with adding years to old age, and more to do with providing lifesaving treatments and prevention to people from lower income backgrounds and worse living conditions, which increases the population’s overall average lifespan.
Known for its bohemian spirit and world-renowned nightlife, the island attracts a younger, trendier crowd. Musicians, actors, and models flock to Ibiza to unwind and recharge.
Another popular holiday spot amongst the rich and famous, Ibiza is a particular favourite amongst singers, actors and sportspeople.
The islands offer the chance to disconnect and relax, so it's no surprise that tennis star Carlos Alcaraz was spotted on the Balearic Islands following his defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Paris Olympics.
The Murcian is a frequent visitor to the islands and was seen in Port D Andratx, Mallorca, as well as Ibiza.
It is thought he was recharging his batteries ahead of the US Open, which began on Monday.
Also getting in some ‘R & R’ was one of the most celebrated basketball players of all time, Michael Jordan.
He was spotted in June while holidaying on the Balearic Islands.
The 61-year-old was touring the islands with his second wife, model Yvette Prieto, and their twin daughters Victoria and Isabel.
They were seen go karting in Ibiza before having a private magic show on their yacht from German magician Sean Christopher. Jordan is no stranger to the islands and last visited in 2017, when he relaxed at a Magalluf beach club.
Flouting
Similarly chilled out was Facebook founder and billionaire Mark Zuckerberg as he sailed into Ibiza flouting maritime law.
He moored his €278 million yacht, the Launchpad in Portinatx Bay. The three-deck 118 metre-long craft has a helicopter on it as well as capacity for 24 guests and a crew of 48 people.
It is thought Zuckerberg ‘broke maritime law’ by switching off the location trackers to ensure no one found out about their Balearic Islands trip.
A favourite amongst actors, Hollywood icon Leonardo DiCaprio has often visited the Balearic Islands to relax between films.
This summer, the 49-year-old has been spotted in Ibiza and Formentera, enjoying a trip with his girlfriend, 26-year-old Italian model, Vittoria Ceretti.
The pair were papped on Dicaprio’s yacht and Ibiza’s Casa Jondal, a restaurant favoured by the rich and famous, including Mick Jagger and Toby Maguire.
He was later spotted with Maguire and friends at Es Moli de Sal restaurant, Formentera.
It is thought they were staying in Ibiza at a villa known as ‘Monterey’.
The 30,000m2 finca is found in the exclusive Bellavista area, with views over Portmany bay.
This summer it has seemed like you could spot a celebrity on every corner of the Balearic Islands.
beautiful
since
mate Nico Williams.
wasn’t all luxury as the Barceriding a Malaga airport bus.
Alcaraz, Michael Jordan, Sean Christopher,
RIPE AGE: Maria Branyas Morera was the oldest person in the world until this week
FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
Chilling out
Cooling off: beat the heat this summer with these inland swimming spots
ALTHOUGH Spain is known for its sandy beaches and chilled chiringuitos, those who flock to the coast to cool off may be missing a trick.
Inland Andalucia, Valencia, Mallorca and Murcia are also home to many stunning spots often missed by tourists.
By Yzabelle Bostyn
Just an hour away from the Costa del Sol is the Rio Genal, a popular bathing spot for locals of Algatocin and Jubrique.
can often get crowded and doesn’t have the same natural charm that those who wade further upstream can enjoy.
Fresh water pools make for a refreshing dip, without clinging sand and saltwater stinging your eyes.
Although finding an inland swimming spot can sometimes be a challenge, as they are frequently nestled in mountain ranges, caves and canons, it’s well worth the effort.
The Serrania de Ronda in Andalucia is undoubtedly one of the best places in Spain to cool off, with many rivers and streams running through the hills.
The river is a great option as you can walk through it to reach many different pools, or ‘charcos’, each quieter than the next.
Plug ‘Venta de San Juan’ into your GPS and after an hour of snaking through mountain roads, you’ll arrive.
Park along the road or in the small car park of ‘Camping El Genal’, before making your way down to the first pool, known as ‘El Puente’.
Found under the El Puente de San Juan, the spot is aptly named, ‘the bridge’.
Here, there is plenty of space to set up camp, with concrete slabs under the bridge and surrounding the river.
The water is also quite deep here, making it perfect for a refreshing dip.
Walking away from the road up the river, you will find Charco Picao, another deep pool thanks to the artificial dams built to trap water. This is by far the largest body of water and feels almost like you could be at the beach.
Carrying on further, you will reach El Estrecho or ‘the thin one’, named after the rocks squeezing the river at either side.
Be careful as you walk along as excitable children launch themselves from the rocks above into the water. It is possible to walk throughout most of the trajectory, even for short people like myself (I measure 5ft 3’) but it is recommended to wear water shoes, alongside a backpack you can hoist up to safety.
However, the first of many pools, it
The last pool, La Toma, boasts a small ‘natural jacuzzi’ as water bubbles over rocks to go downstream. Surrounded by leafy trees, butterflies and flowers, the clear waters are a relief from built up Malaga and you’ll want to come back for more.
If you are looking for somewhere a little closer to home here is a selection of other spots in Murcia…
LOCATED in the town of Bullas beside the Mula River, this natural pool area has several waterfalls and walkways for those wanting to explore the above canyons after a swim.
During the summer season (June 29th to September 2nd), access is limited and guests must reserve a trip here prior to visiting. Reservations are not required during the other seasons.
SALTO DEL USERO, BULLAS
FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL
SOMOGIL THERMAL POOL, MORATALLA
HARD WORK
What makes Jennifer Cunningham Insurances so different?
Agood question and I can offer you a number of answers. I started my company nearly 30 years ago, working from home and developing the business slowly over a number of years. Once established, I employed staff and rented a large office in Javea port, where I am still to this day. How life has changed for me, and for the better.
I realised when I moved to Spain, that there was very little help available and what was available was normally in Spanish. There was no private health insurance, no funeral plans and no insurance dedicated to the Expat, and little customer service. I started the business selling health insurance for a British company, along with funeral plans. Having lost my husband in Spain, I realised how difficult it was to arrange a funeral and the costs were enormous.
Being very disciplined myself (probably due to my time in the Air Force), I have a strong work ethic. I used to work from home during the day, and I would go out early evenings making home visits until I was busy enough to take someone on to help me. From those early days when I worked tirelessly, I built my company and now have seven offices. I demand from my excellent and loyal staff that they treat all my clients with respect, courtesy and honesty and offer them the best service that is possible. I pride myself that the after sales service is the best, a service very rare in Spain. I have a Claims Administrator and a dedicated Renewal department, who will make sure that as your circumstances change, your policies can change with you and you fully aware of your coverage.
So these are just some of the reasons why we are so special. We are more than just a voice on the phone, offering good, old fashioned service. Not always the cheapest, but the best, working with Liberty Seguros and ASSSA healthcare, who both provide special Expat policies and are the best in the market. Mark, Jennifer’s son, will be taking on the company to continue with his late mother’s ethos of customer service and information and this is one of the previous articles from Jennifer that is still relevant today. The only difference is Liberty Seguros has now merged with Generali Seguros, although the policies remain the same.
For more information or a quotation, please call one of my offices, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit www.jennifercunningham.net
Legendary find
RESEARCHERS in Spain
have uncovered lost islands that sank into the ocean millions of years ago, which may hold the origin of the legend of Atlantis.
The team found the islands off Lanzarote on an underwater mountain, which contains three inactive volcanoes and is 50 kms in diameter.
Project head, Luis Somoza, said: “They were islands in the past and are still sinking, as the legend of Atlantis tells us.”
The team has called the underwater mountain Mount Los Atlantes, after Plato’s writings about the gods plunging them into the ocean as a punishment for the immorality of citizens.
The islands date back to between 34 to 56 million years ago.
Quick Crossword
LA CULTURA
HONOUR: Almodovar will be rewarded
BONES found in a tomb in north-west Spain may well belong to a ninth-century bishop who is believed to have been one of the creators of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage walk.
The remains were discovered in 1955 but modern-day bone analysis, carbon dating, stable isotope analysis and DNA testing has produced results that support a very strong
OP Puzzle solutions
Across: 7 Current events, 8 Bed sheet, 9 Hock, 10 Bumpy, 12 Flaring, 14 Falters, 16 Tense, 19 Isn’t, 20 No return, 22 Private sector.
Down: 1 Bureau, 2 Gras, 3 Ended, 4 Textile, 5 Sea horse, 6 C T scan, 11 Putative, 13 Granite, 15 Absorb, 17 Sermon, 18 Press, 21 Tech.
November 29thDecember 12th 2023 LOOKING FOR MORE CULTURE STORIES? Scan to
CELEBRATED Spanish director, Pedro Almodovar will receive one of the country’s highest honours in the cinema industry. The Premio Donostia is given out once a year at the San Sebastian Film Festival.
Final bow
It will be presented by Tilda Swinton, one of the protagonists of his new film.
The Room Next Door is Almodovar’s first film in English and the 74-year-old’s last ever project. It stars Swinton alongside American actress Julianne Moore. The awards ceremony will be followed by a screening.
Other recipients of the award include Judi Dench, Ian McKellan and John Travolta.
HOLY BONES
Camino bishop identified through modern technology
By Alex Trelinski
probability that they belonged to Bishop Theodomir. Tradition has it that Theodomir discovered the tomb
of St. James the Apostle between 820 and 830 AD following a divine revelation in what is now the Galicia region capital, Santiago de Compostela.
PILGRIM: Modern-day bone analysis may have unlocked the secret
News of the find reached King Alfonso II of Asturias, who marched with his court from Oviedo to Santiago - a 146 km route that became the famous pilgrimage.
Theodomir’s existence had been hotly debated until 1955, when archaeologist Manuel Chamoso Lamas discovered a tombstone underneath Santiago's cathedral inscribed with his name.
Initial studies said the bones found inside were of an el-
derly adult male but 30 years later another researcher suggested they belonged to a woman.
The newest study, led by Patxi Perez-Ramallo of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, combined different analytical methods in a bid to reach a definitive conclusion including carbon-14 dating.
Perez-Ramallo said that the results showed that there was a ‘98% likelihood of the bones being Theodomir’.
HAIL CAESAR
A RESEARCH team using air-based LiDAR technology have discovered an astounding 57 Roman-era sites in the Guadalete River valley in Cadiz.
The stunning finds pave the way for on-the-ground investigations as the team hopes to understand how the region’s trade routes were interconnected.
Villa
The first site to receive attention was a Roman villa in Bornos, which included walls separating the residential areas from the work zones within the settlement.
The team used unmanned aircraft equipped with multispectral cameras and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) to assess the terrain quickly and accurately.
The team then used geo radar to help sketch out wall and settlement layouts not visible on the ground.
BREAK DOWN COVER
If your car breaks down it can be an upsetting experience, especially if you don’t have roadside assistance cover. But they are also the most common type of problem on the road.
STAY SAFE
If you break down, stay calm and safe until rescue support arrives. Remember that while you wait for help, your priority is to safeguard yourself and any fellow passengers. Línea Directa policyholders simply call 919 171 171 and inform the emergency hotline where you are. Línea Directa provides emergency roadside assistance anywhere in Spain 24/7 and 365 days a year, with a national network of operators and recovery vehicles.
GEOLOCATION SERVICE
This service is exclusive to Línea Directa and allows breakdown recovery and roadside assistance services to pinpoint your location and send help directly to you. This service is available throughout mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. The technology is simple to use and really useful when you need it most.
BREAKDOWN KIT
To help you stay safe here is a checklist of some important safety items in the event of a breakdown. This emergency breakdown kit should be kept in your vehicle at all times. The kit includes: a torch and spare batteries, warm clothes and blankets, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit, jump start cables, empty fuel can, food and drink, two reflective warning signs, a road atlas, and a mobile phone charger.
OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERTISE
As Spain’s most experienced provider of insurance for British expatriates, Línea Directa has been keeping motorists on the move for over 20 years.
We hope the information provided in this article is of interest. If you would like to contact Línea Directa please call 952 147 834. More information about Línea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com
BUSINESS
Pensioner entrepreneurs
SPAIN is granting retirees
the ability to start a business while receiving a pension.
Although the program has been in place since 2013, a reminder has been put out to eligible pensioners.
The conditions are that they must have reached the legal age of retirement (65) and have at least 37 years and 9 months of social security contributions.
The program is also only available to retirees who are entitled to the maximum pension.
However fear not: if you don’t meet these requirements you can still apply – at the latest – at 67-years-old.
Known as ‘active retirement’, the application process is relatively simple and can be done through the website portal for la Seguridad Social.
Land of hope
40% of new jobs in Spain taken by immigrants
SPAIN is experiencing a dramatic shift in its workforce, with foreign-born workers rapidly filling many new jobs. While the Spanish economy is booming, with over 550,000 jobs created in the first half of 2024 alone, a staggering 40% of these positions have gone to immigrants, despite making up only 13.9% of the total
By Walter Finch population.
The tourism and hospitality sector, a cornerstone of Spain's economy, has seen a surge in foreign workers, accounting for over 25% of new job creation. This rapid influx has raised concerns among some locals, particularly in areas heavi-
ly reliant on tourism. However, it's important to note that while foreign workers are filling a significant portion of new job openings, they are generally earning lower wages compared to their Spanish counterparts. Spanish men, on average, earn €26,448 annually, while foreign men earn only €16,950. This wage gap holds true
ONLINE SHOPPERS
E-COMMERCE in Spain has seen remarkable growth, reaching a total turnover of €84 billion in 2023 – an increase of 16.3% on the previous year.
Unsurprisingly, the tourism sector has been leading the way, with travel agencies and tour operators taking up 8.5% of total turnover.
The last quarter of 2023 saw more than 432 million online transactions – an increase of 15.1% compared to the previous
period – with gambling and betting leading the ranking by sales with 6.9% of the total.
Transport has also seen robust growth in e-commerce as customers book their tickets increasingly online rather than at the physical office.
Clothes shoppers are also increasingly eschewing traditional shops and turning to the internet to order their items and now accounts for 7.3% of the total turnover.
Preparing for university
IN today’s fast-paced, globalised world, the traditional education system is evolving to meet the needs of modern students. For expat families, finding a high-quality, flexible education solution can be particularly challenging. Enter Crimson Global Academy (CGA), an online high school that is revolutionising the way students prepare for university. With a proven track record of success, CGA offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, personalised learning, and global opportunities that give students a competitive edge in university admissions.
Your Child’s Journey to the Ivy League?
readiness that CGA instils in its students. “I don’t think I’d imagined I’d be at this point, so soon, but I think CGA and the community around me have really prepared me for the next steps in my life. And I’m very excited for everything.”
for females too, with Spanish women earning €21,033 compared to foreign women at €13,401.
The country that sent the most immigrants to Spain in the last six months is Colombia, with 37,936 –or 16.5% of the total new workers.
Italy comes second with 22,879 (9,9%), then Morocco with 21,488 (9.3%).
Also notable in the creation of jobs in the last six months are Romania (17,115), Venezuela (13,033), Peru (11,180), Argentina (8,441), Senegal (8,372) and Ukraine (5,407).
According to figures from June, there were 21.39 million workers in Spain, with 2.9 million being foreign. However, the number of foreign workers has nearly doubled in the last 10 years. In 2014 it was just 1.5 million.
SUCKERS
SPANISH farmers are begging the EU to approve the use of specific pesticides to help tackle a growing plague of mosquitoes which threatens their harvest.
The invasive tiger mosquito, which has been spreading all over Europe, has been impacting the health of field workers, according to Juan de Dios Hernandez, the president of the Murcia agricultural association.
Pandemic
“We call on the EU to take responsibility and request that the regulations regarding phytosanitary products be reviewed to eradicate this pandemic of harmful bugs, which directly affect our interests and, most seriously, people’s health,” he said. De Dios Hernandez pointed out that the plague of mosquitoes has already forced workers to abandon the fields. It has also been linked to a number of fatalities with its capacity to spread dengue fever, malaria, and West Nile Virus.
Jade’s acceptances to seven top US universities, underscore the incredible opportunities that CGA’s innovative online platform offers to students with big dreams. Her eagerness to dive into university life, reflects the confidence and
One of CGA’s recent student successes was Jade, a full-time student accepted to 7 top US universities including Princ- eton University and Colum- bia University. Starting earwith CGA, Jade dedicatherself to a rigorous curulum, encompassing a broad spectrum of A Level subjects including Math, Economics, English Literature, Physics, Psychology, and Chemistry.
Jade’s success in this challenging process can be attributed significantly to the support from CGA’s Director of Admissions, Bob Fan, who provided invaluable mentorship. Jade credits Bob for assisting with managing deadlines, sorting out recommendations, mentoring her through the common app and supplement essays, and keeping her on track throughout the application process.
Using Online Learning Alongside A Local School
Crimson Global Academy (CGA) is a fully accredited institution that boasts impressive results for fullt-eim and parttime students. CGA students consistently achieve top scores worldwide in international exams such as the International GCSE and A Levels and their results surpass the global averages for the Advanced Placement courses also. For students looking to boost
their transcript without leaving their school, they can take an advanced course in a subject, or a subject not offered at their school. This individualised approach allows families to access online courses to nurture each student’s strengths, helping them to excel academically. Moreover, CGA’s flexible scheduling accommodates the unique needs of expat families, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.
Education Tailored to Each Student
One of the key advantages of CGA is its focus on personalised learning. Each family starts their journey with CGA by meeting with a dedicated academic advisor who helps them create a customised learning plan. This plan is tailored to the student’s academic goals, strengths, and areas for improvement. By providing this level of personalised support, CGA ensures that each student is well-prepared for university admissions.
is much higher at CGA than what I’ve seen in your average physical school”.
With CGA, your child can achieve their academic goals and embark on a successful university journey, visit our website to find out more.
In the words of one CGA student Mayoora, who received offers from 7 top universities in the UK and Europe, “In terms of academics and getting to university, I would say that the quality of teaching and academics in general
Little Nessie
THE Loch Ness Monster’s cousin has landed in Spain.
Tebi, a playful winged kelpie, was brought to Teba, Malaga all the way from Inverness some 700 years ago, or so claims the local council.
The imaginary creature will now become the town’s ‘mascot’ from its home in the Guadalteba reservoir.
Teba has a strong link with Scotland, celebrating the Douglas Day fiesta for the past 18 years.
The celebrations mark Scotsman Sir James Douglas’ bravery during the battle of Teba in 1330, in which he died.
Part of the reconquest of Spain, Douglas is also remembered by a memorial in the town.
Social media users get their knickers in a twist after influencer dumps underwear in bread cabinet
A BRITISH influencer has been warned she faces legal action in Spain after putting her used underwear among loaves of bread at a supermarket. In one of her latest videos, Chloe Jade Lopez is seen pushing a trolley around a Merca-
MIND BOGGLES
A PEEPING Tom who put a spy camera on window grilles to watch elderly people in their bedrooms has been caught after police identified him on his own recording.
A resident in Alicante saw the man place the device on his window at dawn - the camera was even painted so it would blend in with the surroundings.
The Guardia Civil studied the downloaded footage, which was taken at different Formentera de la Segura homes and even showed the man’s face when he was installing it at a property. He was arrested and charged with crimes against privacy as well as drug possession and trafficking.
By Laurence Dollimore
dona supermarket before suddenly stopping.
She then smiles into the camera as she takes off a pink thong before opening a bread tray, placing the underwear inside and closing it again.
Donning a short black skirt and heels, she then chuckles as she pushes her trolley away from the scene.
She shared the video with her 183,000 Instagram followers alongside the caption: “Leaving a donation.”
But the clip has sparked a backlash from locals online, with dozens vowing to file a police report.
One commenter wrote in Spanish: “Reported for put-
ting consumers’ health at risk. I hope Mercadona does the same but through the courts.”
Another said: “She is committing a crime against public health, how is it possible that her account has not been closed for this? She must be reported and fined.”
Others simply tagged accounts belonging to the Policia Nacional and Health Ministry.
THONG GATE
Crimes against public health in Spain can bring fines that run into the tens of thousands, depending on their severity - and in the most extreme cases even jail time. Mercadona has strict rules about handling bread at its supermarkets, with customers told they must wear plastic gloves that are provided next to the trays.
Reptile rap
POLICE who searched the car of a ‘nervous’ 52-year-old ferry passenger in Tenerife were shocked to find three giant lizards hidden in the boot.
Costly cubes
A SPANISH tourist shelling out €250 for a high-end lobster meal at a Menorca restaurant was left speechless when he was charged €3 for extra ice cubes.
Political lies
FAR-RIGHT agitator Alvise Perez disappointed his followers after cancelling a raffle offering his first MEP salary of €6,876.04 as a prize as he’d prefer to ‘buy a finca’ or ‘go on holiday in Ibiza’.
