Olive Press Costa Blanca South and Murcia Issue 123 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

Stunning new glamping venue where you feel like the star of a spaghetti western

O P LIVE RESS

A MAYOR is demanding urgent action after he and a fellow councillor had their cars blown up over a battle with an illegal cockﬁghting gang.

Aspe leader Antonio Puerto has received countless death threats since the council shut down a cockﬁghting venue in January.

He has now asked the authorities for extra police as the gang - also involved in drugs - started to act more brazenly.

The latest incidents saw the car of Aspe’s councillor for security set on ﬁre, last week, while a van owned by the mayor’s father was burnt in July.

The problems began after a raid by 60 police at Gallera El Chato, where over 200 spectators were watching a ﬁght, in January.

A total of 19 people were arrested and 150 others were identiﬁed at the venue, which was air conditioned and had electric screens hanging over the ring.

The raid led to the council closing down the warehouse bar for not having a licence and for a total of 19 separate crimes, including drug traﬃcking.

“What has been happening with the threats and car attacks is the work of a drug maﬁa that wants to roam freely,” revealed mayor Puerto this week.

“We urgently need to tackle them head on and need the authorities to send us more police.”

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Discover the 15 Spanish cities that are putting on free music, dance and theatre events for a very special anniversary

Tragic bull collapses and dies at traditional Costa Blanca festival

A BULL died while taking part in a traditional bous a la mar in Javea.

The event saw a bull ring set up near the beach, from where the animal was forced to run towards the shore. Spectators lined up along the route, with many deciding to run alongside the bull and jump in the water alongside it.

On Saturday, the bull got into trouble after jumping into the water while trying to gore spectators.

Rescuers lifted the animal’s snout out of the water and managed to bring it back to dry land, but after a few steps it collapsed, witnesses said. Its handler tried to revive him but the bull died on the beach.

Around 100 people protested on Sunday, carrying banners with the words, ‘Torture is not culture’.

FIGHTBACK BEGINS

IT’S been a hot potato rumbling on since the start of the summer with anti-tourist protests in Spain garnering headlines worldwide.

And now, as the visitor numbers ﬁnally start to drop, yet another Costa Blanca town has joined a trend in suspending new tourist licences.

L’Alfas del Pi has joined fellow Marina Baixa towns, Altea and Polop, in limiting new tourist accommodation.

The council agreed on a two-year ban at a heated plenary meeting, which will likely aﬀect hundreds of expats and locals planning to rent to tourists.

The key town hall session also agreed to bring in new measures to clamp

By Alex Trelinski

down on unlicensed properties through a new local law.

“We will prosecute owners of undeclared properties or those who don’t follow the basic rules,” said council spokesperson Toni Such.

The problem has heightened as the number of tourist rentals has grown exponentially over the last few years.

L’Alfas council received 61 requests for licences in 2021, rising to 145 the following year and 230 last year.

The ﬁrst nine months of this year alone have so far had 237 applications.

Expats - all on the run!

JIMMY Carr has claimed most British expats are ‘criminals’, ‘tax evading’ or ‘running away from something’.

“But most of you’ve been here so long I’m sure you can go home now without any problems,” the comic told a soldout audience in Marbella.

Radical move sees popular Costa Blanca resort ban new tourist licences and target illegal owners

“We took the decision for the suspension due to this proliferation of requests,” Such added.

There are already 1,764 tourist rentals in the municipality, which appear on the oﬃcial Valencian government registry.

The council realised it had to act as increasing numbers of complaints came in about illegal homes and the ‘nuisance’ they caused for locals, particularly in blocks of ﬂats.

Villajoyosa and Denia are also studying similar measures due to concerns over tourist ‘oversaturation’.

All municipalities in the Valencian Community have extra powers to deal with illegal properties after a new regional law was passed earlier this summer.

the past 10 years, while wages haven’t increased.

Demos have been held in Malaga, Sevilla, Palma and the Canary Islands, over the past few months, each highlighting discontent at mass tourism.

In Barcelona, demonstrators barricaded hotels and restaurants along their route while others chanted ‘Tourists, go home’, while carrying placards with similar messages.

Barcelona announced the scrapping of all tourist ﬂat licences by 2029, after Madrid suspended all new permits.

Spain’s Housing Minister, Isabel Rodriquez, has pledged to try to reduce the ‘uncontrolled proliferation’ of tourist ﬂats, which are reducing the supply of long term rentals and, consequently, raising prices in large cities and tourist areas.

Wednesday and have been to places as far and wide as Australia and Japan, where incredibly people understand me,” he insisted. After maligning Torremolinos, he said he had spent ‘two great weeks’ in Marbella this summer and even showed interest in buying a property in the resort.

Nationally, there have been a series of protests against tourist ﬂats, with campaigners blaming AirBnb-style rentals for rent increases that drive locals out of the market.

These came as reports showed the cost of housing has increased by 68% over

This came after the Supreme Court allowed several Community of Owners associations to ban tourist lets.

He then insisted Brexit wasn’t ‘so bad’. And the UK was ‘ﬂirting again’ with Europe and it would be like ‘getting back with an ex’.

“I’m oﬀ to Canada on

Part of a 45-country global tour, he told the Olive Press backstage that he was ‘constantly on the move’, having arrived from a gig in Somerset the night before and heading to Mallorca the following day.

It came after an estate agent in the audience shouted out he could help him ﬁnd a villa.

“I know estate agents are pushy twats but now they’re trying to sell me a home during a show,” he joked. “I might be interested though.”

The 90-minute gig at the Marbella Arena was part of his Laughs Funny tour.

MODERN: Cockﬁght venue

Violent oﬀender

A MAN, 42, has been arrested and jailed over two violent robberies and a stabbing within three weeks in Callosa de Segura, including the wounding of a victim during the town’s August ﬁestas.

Flood cash

VALENCIAN president

Carlos Mazon has announced projects costing €21 million to prevent a repeat of the September 2019 Vega Baja ﬂood disaster.

Lighting boost

LARGE areas of Torrevieja city centre and the La Mata district will get 1,190 new energy eﬃcient street lights erected over ﬁve months, costing over €900,000.

Highly rated

CARTAGENA’S Calblanque beaches have been named the second-best in the world - pipped by one in Indonesia- in a report from the Daily Telegraph newspaper.

AN online influencer could face jail after he dared his followers to fake drowning incidents on crowded Costa Blanca beaches.

Nil Ojeda’s viral YouTube video, which urged viewers to ‘find a lifeguard, get in front of him and start acting as if you’re drowning’ led to a series of ‘dangerous’ incidents at Alicante’s Postiguet and San Juan beaches.

The reckless challenge caused alarm

Bad inﬂuence

among beachgoers and lifeguards alike, as the numerous false alarms forced lifesavers to divert their attention from other possible emergencies. Other hoax incidents at a Guadamar beach led to two youngsters being fined by police. Alicante council has now launched a

legal battle against Ojeda, accusing him of violating public safety laws and organising illegal events. It could also be considered a violation of the national ‘influencer law,’ which prohibits the incitement of crimes through the internet.

If found guilty, Spaniard Ojeda could face prison and a significant fine. Alicante council is also seeking to have his YouTube and social media channels shut down.

British Spy claim

‘Undercover agent’ who worked with maﬁa gangs vows to expose Spanish negligence over London and Madrid terror attacks in extradition case

A BRITISH accountant claims the Spanish authorities are trying to jail him as part of a scheme to catch a Tenerife crime lord.

Paul Blanchard, 79, from York, is facing extradition on charges of money laundering when he worked as a ‘ﬁnancial advisor’ for criminal gangs between 1999 and 2001.

But Blanchard says things were very diﬀerent – that he was actually working as an ‘undercover agent’ for Spain’s CGI intelligence services at the time.

He told the Olive Press he was feeding them information on both maﬁa and terrorist gangs – including the IRA, Russian mobsters and Al Qaeda.

EXCLUSIVE

By Walter Finch

That is, until the CGI burned their star man – codename ‘Isabella’ – in 2004 and denied to British cops that he was their agent.

“They basically threw me under the bus and denied all knowledge of me, despite giving them all this evidence at their behest,” he explained.

Blanchard faces an extradition hearing in London next week, at which he claims he will embarrass the Spanish authorities for their negligence. In particular, he will ‘prove’ how they ignored his vital intelligence that ‘would have prevented the Madrid and the

London 7/7 bombings’.

Some 191 people died in the Madrid train bombings on March 11, 2004 and 52 in the London attacks on July 7, 2005.

Blanchard claimed he was originally recruited by Spanish spooks when he brought them evidence of criminal activity by alleged mob boss Mohamed Derbah in Tenerife. They used this evidence as a star witness to build a case against Derbah, who was reportedly the right-hand man of British maﬁa don John ‘Goldﬁnger’ Palmer. But after their relationship broke down in 2004, the authorities realised they had lost Blanchard’s key evidence against Derbah. Court documents seen by the Olive Press, accuse a Spanish judge of unlawfully switch-

ing Blanchard’s status from ‘witness’ to ‘co-defendant’ in 2007 in order to use his evidence without his cooperation. Prior to that, Blanchard returned to the UK, where he was arrested in 2006 in relation to what he claims was undercover espionage while in Spain.

BAD BRIT

A BRITISH man, 48, has been arrested in San Javier following a three-hour stand-oﬀ with police where he threatened to blow up a ﬂat. He barricaded himself in a friend’s home and put a knife to his neck.

The unnamed Brit threw several objects into the street and threatened to explode a butano gas cylinder. The homeowner eventually managed to flee, with police soon storming the flat.

THE parents of a boy, seven, who nearly drowned at a communal swimming pool in San Juan de Alicante, have been arrested for child abandonment. The family from Almeria were staying at the Adra urbanisation.

He was advised to plead guilty to passport fraud, laundering £375,000 and trying to steal £4.3m from a London bank and transferring it to Spain. He insisted he had no choice as his lawyers ‘mislaid’ secret recordings that would have exonerated him but have since been found.

Blanchard would later suﬀer a heart attack in the notorious Belmarsh prison before being released on licence in 2010.

The youngster was pulled out of the water by a lifeguard after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest. The lifeguard performed CPR before the victim was taken to hospital.

The boy’s father, 38, and mother, 29, will face a court hearing on a charge of temporarily abandoning a child after police found he was left unsupervised.

FOOD FIGHT!

A WHOPPING 120,000 kilos of tomatoes have been thrown in the Valencian region’s famous tomatina food ﬁght.

A total of 20,000 people, each paying €15 for the privilege, got

splattered in the annual festival, in Buñol.

The overripe fruit came from the province of Castellon before turning the town red with pulp. The event traces its origins to 1945 when an argument during a parade in the town square ended in a food fight.

JUICY: Tons of tomatoes make for a fun but soggy event

Culture vultures

A nationwide heritage night has been called for Spain’s leading 15 cultural hotspots

By Yzabelle Bostyn

FREE theatre, concerts and dance are on offer for a special nationwide ‘Heritage night’.

Some 15 Spanish towns - all with UNESCO protection status - will also be offering guided tours, gourmet markets and gastronomic workshops for one night only. The event on September 14 has been organised to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Cultural Heritage Cities Group (GCPHE). Designed to ‘make

heritage come to life’ the cities include Cordoba, Baeza and Ubeda in Andalucia, as well as Avila and Alcala de Henares, near Madrid. British choreographer Yinka in contemporary dance in Cordoba.

GRACEFUL: British ﬂamenco dancer Yinka Esi Graves

Hiya from Hayek

MEXICAN ﬁlm star Salma Hayek has been turning heads in Ibiza as she took a break before her 58th birthday this week.

The Oscar-nominated actress, married to billionaire businessman François-Henri Pinault, 62, since 2009, was spotted soaking up the sun aboard a luxurious

. The Frida star took to Instagram to share a stunning shot of herself in her twopiece, captioning it in both English and Spanish. “ Yellow bikini + White hair = perfect combination. ”

Esi Graves will perform a flamenco-inspired piece, drawing on her experience

Other cities offering special

SURPRISE PARTY

events include Ibiza town, Cuenca and Salamanca. Caceres, meanwhile, has the most monuments open to the public, with 24 museums and palaces opening their doors.

PRINCESS Leonor may be used to all the trappings of Royal life, but she had a more down to earth break when she visited the Costa del Sol.

The heir to the Spanish throne dined with six friends at a humble chiringuito beach bar.

Sir Ben robbed

SIR Ben Ainslie, the most decorated sailor in Olympic history, has been robbed of his €20,000 Rolex at knifepoint by thieves in Barcelona.

The 47-year-old British yachtsman - who has four Olympic golds and one silver - is currently in the city for the 37th staging of the America’s Cup, sailing’s premier competition.

The bar owners say the reservation was made with no reference to the royals and were surprised when several bodyguards turned up alongside the young women.

According to manager Puri Molina, waiting staﬀ at El Saladero beach bar soon recognised the princess. But any hopes of grabbing a memento were dashed - the Royal Household’s security detail made other guests delete any images they took, so no snapshots of the illustrious lunch have come to light.

Nearby Merida will have a special performance from Marcat Dance, alongside Colombian singer Manuel Turizo and other theatre performances.

Further north Santiago de Compostela has a big line up of events, while evocative Segovia will have a string of special ‘candlelight events’.

The famous Roman amphitheatre and circus will be open in Tarragona, while historic Toledo will be abuzz with events.

The GCPHE was created to protect cities declared world heritage sites by UNESCO.

According to local police data, crime in the Catalan capital has increased by 8% over the past year, with almost half (48.1%) of the reported crimes being pickpocketing.

He is CEO and skipper of the INEOS Bri- tannia team, aiming to become the ﬁrst British crew to claim victory in the competition’s 170-year history.

Many tourists are targeted in packed popular hotspots, including Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, and around La Sagrada Familia.

See Rough Seas page 10

yacht

Water warning

RESIDENTS in Callosa d’En

Sarria have been told to take ‘extreme measures’ to conserve water or face drinking supplies being cut oﬀ.

Teulada and Benitatxell are supplying bottled water and tankers as tap water is undrinkable due to high salt levels caused by the drought. If the drought continues or worsens, tough action will need to be taken.

Meanwhile, residents in Parcent have also been warned that domestic supplies could be cut.

KIDS NOT WANTED

SPAIN'S birth rate has fallen by 25% over a decade with 156,202 births in the ﬁrst half of this year - 52,000 down on the same period in 2014.

The ﬁgures show a slight increase compared to the ﬁrst six months of 2023, with 440 more children born this year.

The trend though remains downward and the number of births has fallen in all age groups, except for women aged over 40 - suggesting that motherhood is being delayed. The downturn is likely due to women dedicating more time to their careers as well as ﬁnancial woes leading to a lower priority to start a family.

KILLED OVER ‘DOG WALK ROW’

Wife of Brit who died after neighbour attack makes cash appeal to help get justice

A BRITISH resident has launched an appeal for big-hearted expats to help get justice for her rugby fan husband who was killed while walking his dog.

Sarah Allwright, from Exeter, is raising funds to cover the costs of the legal claim for husband Martin, who was hit on the head with a garden hoe in Almeria.

The 59-year-old was attacked

By Walter Finch

by a neighbour in Zurgena on August 12, with the expat dying ﬁve days later.

The assailant allegedly objected to Martin walking his dog ‘too close to his home.’

He was arrested by the Guardia Civil on a charge of attempted homicide with the case now in the hands of an investigating judge.

Rebuild begins

WORK has ﬁnally begun to repair the Valencia apartment block where 10 people died in a fatal ﬁre in February.

However, the costs of pursuing a separate legal claim of prosecuting the killer will cost Sarah €18,000 with a criminal

renovation has a budget of €1.5 million, paid for by the insurers and involves clearing out the remains of appliances, furniture and belongings.

Allwright died after brutal assault

lawyer demanding €9,000 up front.

“Martin was hit on the back of the head with a sharp garden implement,” Sarah wrote on her Gofundme page.

“He received brain surgery and was in hospital for a week, but sadly lost his life on August 19.

A MAYOR has been branded ‘far-right’ after hundreds of asylum seekers were scheduled to be sent to his town from the Canary Islands. Tossa de Mar leader Marti Pujals slammed the move as ‘excessive’ and being out of proportion for his town of 6,000 residents.

He claims Tossa in Catalunya, should not have to accept more than 40 migrants given that Blanes, a nearby town with 40,000 residents, received just 200 last year.

Crime

“I am asking for help with this as this cost is huge to me. Any help would be so much appreciated.”

DEVASTATED: But the structure remains sound

The fourmonth fatal

Fortunately, an expert report concluded no structural damage was caused during the ﬁre in Campanar, which left 100 families homeless.

Thousands of tonnes of metal carpentry, window and balcony glass, elevator cabins as well as what’s left of the facade will also be removed.

Meanwhile, a leading architecture ﬁrm, Arqueha, has been working on the full reconstruction project which will follow on.

The company - which designed the Ikon tower in Valencia based on a blueprint by legend Ricardo Boﬁll - have been given a €1.1 million budget and seven months to produce a design.

The owners will run a tender process to decide which construction company will then carry out the rebuilding work, which will take another two to three years.

She added that Martin had ‘a great many friends’ and described him as ‘always up for a laugh.’

“His great passion was Exeter Chiefs rugby and it will be sad that he won't be watching the start of the new season with me,” she added.

Sarah has at the time of print raised €6,145 of the €9,000 target in just nine days, with dozens of people from the local community chipping in.

His concerns echo Spain’s far right Vox party, which claims mass immigration is leading to higher crime figures. But his claims have been branded ‘far-right’ showing ‘structural and institutional racism’.

Tossa has had over 75,000 tourists this year, so 200 migrants should be easily absorbed, claim critics. They will spend a month in a hotel while their asylum paperwork is processed. Migrants are being redistributed across Spain as Canarian oﬃcials struggle to deal with ‘so far 22,000 arrivals’.

VICTIM: Martin

A LACK of taxis in Torrevieja during the high season has prompted a call for temporary licenses to be issued for the busiest time of the year.

The city currently only has 86 licensed taxis to serve a population that triples to over 300,000 during July and August.

Tourists and residents are sometimes

Housing hotspot

ORIHUELA has had the biggest rise in house prices per square metre of any coastal municipality in Spain.

The Tinsa IMIE Local Markets study for the second quarter of 2024 takes in both new and second-hand properties.

Hikes

Prices in Orihuela have risen by 12.5% over 12 months - the highest figure in the country where the national annual average is 3.1%.

Price hikes have been 23% above the Alicante province average.

Taxi ‘chaos’ solution proposed

left waiting hours - if they get one at all - leading to a boost for unlicensed pirate operators. Queues and delays are frequent at ‘pressure points’ and hold-ups for people who have to go to hospitals

and health centres are becoming critical. The Sueña Torrevieja party has proposed oﬀering 30 temporary licenses running between April 1 and September to ease the pressure.

In contrast, Torrevieja council wants to award 14 new full licenses over a three-year period, with six this year, and four more in both 2025 and 2026. The plan would mean one taxi would be available per 1,000 residents during the oﬀ-peak season, but would still leave the network under serious stress during the summer.

RIP Stevie

Entertainer and fund-raising legend loses cancer battle

POPULAR Costa Blanca

entertainer Stevie Spit, has died aged just 54.

The proliﬁc charity fundraiser lost his battle against cancer on Tuesday.

Whether hosting shows in his famous drag persona at the Benidorm Palace or simply in his normal attire, he was always out to help others.

“After a very short illness, he slipped away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones,” revealed his best friend, Ei-

BRIDGE RELIEF

HALF a year of misery for San Miguel de Salinas motorists will end soon when a new €2.6m bridge opens this month. The problems began after April’s demolition of the Rambla de Lo Quiles bridge after a storm weakened its structure. It meant traffic on one of the key routes

By Alex Trelinski

leen Gleave.

“He has been a light in the community for so many years, but has left a hole that could never be ﬁlled.”

She added: “But one thing was for sure….he left us knowing he was truly loved by all.”

Tributes quickly went out along the coast from numerous expats and groups. One, Dreamgirls-Spain,

in the Vega Baja - the CV-95 - needed to be diverted for two kilometres during the construction of a replacement bridge. The road connects Torrevieja and the Orihuela with inland parts of the region, and has thousands of daily users, especially during the summer. Officials revealed the new bridge should be open by the end of September.

paid tribute saying: “He raised literally thousands for children, animals and people in need. And he did it with such passion, humour and with his fantastic ability to perform to any audience, young and old.”

Stevie - real name Brian McLeod - helped many good causes over the “Stevie is a truly inspirational fundraiser.

years and many returned the favour in recent months, with events being staged to raise money for him.

Born in Scotland, his charity work saw him awarded the British Empire Medal (MBE) in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The then UK ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, presented it to him and said at the time:

“His enthusiasm is such that whenever he organises one of his many impromptu fundraisers it is almost a guaranteed success, such is his support from the Costa Blanca community.”

Bicycle tragedy

A BRITISH expat died after his bicycle collided with a car in the Valencia area.

The 66-year-old - named by a close friend as Martin Mander - was travelling on the Cami Vell d’Ontinyent on August 25.

Mr Mander was taken to hospital in Ontinyent with multiple injuries, before being transferred to Xativa Hospital where he passed away.

The Guardia Civil is investigating the accident with a source telling the Levante newspaper ‘that the cyclist lost control ahead of the incident’.

The motorist was said to be ‘driving correctly on the road’.

Mr Mander was an experienced cyclist and lived locally in Ontinyent.

ROAD DEATH RISE

ROAD deaths in summer have doubled in the Valencian Community over the last two years.

There were 12 fatalities in July, and 18 last month, according to oﬃcial statistics.

Stevie went to Buckingham Palace in June 2022 to pick up his honour, accompanied by pal Eileen. He talked to Prince William for 10 minutes and told him his job was selling raﬄe tickets and produced a strip of them for him to buy.

A high proportion of deaths were motorcyclists, accounting for nine fatal accidents in July alone. Last year, 19 people lost their lives on regional roads in the peak period, and there were 12 deaths in 2022.

The cumulative ﬁgure for road fatalities between January and August is 74, compared to 56 in 2023. The Valencian Community has the second-worst road death numbers in the country, behind Andalucia.

MISSED: Beloved Costa Blanca fundraiser and drag artist

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in

with an estimated

OPINION

Stevie Spit - full of community spirit

TRUST us when we say that social media is not a perfect tool for passing judgement on anything!

There might however be an exception over the entertainer and fund-raiser extraordinaire, Stevie Spit. Ever since Stevie’s premature death on Tuesday, social media posts have poured in from across the Costa Blanca to say ‘thanks’ to a man whose name was known to virtually every British expat.

There seemed to be a time when most charity events south of Alicante had Stevie’s involvement and that brought him a highly-deserved British Empire Medal four years ago.

Just weeks ago, he found out that he had cancer but was determined to ﬁght it.

Loads of people and charities that he’d championed, wanted to help him in a true embodiment of community spirit - something that Stevie Spit epitomised. He will not be forgotten.

The right balance

REDUCING tourist property rentals and ﬁghting illegal lets has picked up after the Valencian government gave more muscle to town halls to deal with the issue as they see ﬁt.

L’Alfas del Pi has joined other Costa Blanca towns and cities in introducing a moratorium on licenses for tourist accommodation which have shot up in the last two years.

A pause gives valuable time to sort things out and to get the right balance that’s good for tourists and locals, which is being promoted in a new Valencia region video. The sector is worth big bucks to many people and the politicians know it - but they’ve failed in regulating holiday lets for years and allowed them to swamp some districts.

Each place is different and cities like Benidorm and Torrevieja don’t appear to have big problems, which suggests they’ve done it right for a long time - something that others perhaps need to look at.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es

Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es

Makarova (+34) 951 154 841 admin@theolivepress.es

Simon Hunter simon@theolivepress.es

Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es

Ben Pawlowski ben@theolivepress.es

Héctor Santaella (+34) 658 750

accounts@ theolivepress.es

theolivepress.es

FBy Ben Pawlowski in Barcelona

OLLOWING years of groundbreaking innovation and hundreds of millions of euros invested from super-rich backers, the 37th edition of the America’s Cup is ﬁnally underway.

Half a dozen teams have descended on Barcelona to stake their claim to sailing’s most prestigious trophy in a pulsating regatta which kicked off on August 22 and will conclude in October.

The Catalan port has been transformed into a glamorous sporting pantheon for the competition, often regarded as the oldest in modern sport as it now enters its 170th year.

However, the regatta has become the latest target for anti-tourist protesters who have blasted it as ‘elitist and opaque’, claiming the afﬂuent clientele and fanfare ‘will bring every sort of misery to the city’.

The antagonism kicked off in May when violent clashes between protesters and police broke out after the ofﬁcial sponsor, luxury brand Louis Vuitton, held a fashion show in the city’s UNESCO-listed Parc Guell.

The parade - attended by celebrities including Emma Stone, Sophie Turner and Ana de Armas - sparked anger among residents who rallied against the disruption and the ‘privatisation of public space’.

Locals were particularly aggravated that a historic stone staircase in the culturally-important Gaudi designed park, was damaged during construction for the show. Other protesters claim the competition is driving locals out of the city by pushing up rental prices, particularly in the coastal Barceloneta neighbourhood where the action is taking place. They point out that temporary lettings have skyrocketed to

ROUGH SEAS

While the globally popular America’s Cup has kicked off in Barcelona it has been anything but universally welcomed

€4,000-€5,000 a month.

Meanwhile, a number of streets at the recent Gracia Festival were dedicated entirely to protesting against the regatta.

The entrance to one installation read ‘Let’s sink the f***ing America’s Cup’, surrounded by phrases such as ‘Tourists and expats go home’ and ‘when posh people in boats kick you out of your house’.

Others are angry that the lucrative event is relying on 2,000 volunteers, rather than providing paid, short-term jobs to locals.

Despite the protests, ﬁve teams are competing for the right to become the Challengers of Record and face off against the reigning champions, Emirates New Zealand, in a series of races in October to decide who takes home the coveted trophy.

Sir Ben Ainslee, the four-time Olympic sailing champion, is once again the skipper and CEO of the Britannia team, backed by billionaire Manchester United owner and INEOS founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Ainslee’s crew have received technical

OPPOSITION: Protests against the cup began in May and still continue

assistance from mechanics from the Mercedes AMG Formula 1 team, who are also sponsored by Ratcliffe’s chemical conglomerate.

will advance to the Louis Vuitton Cup final, where the first team to win seven races will qualify for the America’s Cup final against holders New Zealand, who won in 2021. Each crew is racing an AC75 boat, the latest extraordinary feat of technological innovation and ingenuity.

The 75ft foiling craft has a carbon-ﬁbre hull and sails that can be as large as 26.5m high. Their top speeds will be around 50 knots (93 kph).

It is a far cry from the wooden boats of the ﬁrst America’s Cup, held around the Isle of Wight in 1851.

The competition was won by the New York Yacht Club which renamed the trophy, then known as the ‘100 Guineas Cup’, in honour of its homeland.

Barcelona is the second Spanish venue to host the cup after Valencia, which hosted two consecutive editions in 2007 and 2010.

The competition is driving locals out of the city by pushing up rental prices

Barcelona’s former left-wing mayor, Ada Colau, successfully fought off bids from Valencia and Malaga to host this year’s edition as part of a drive to bring ‘quality’ tourism to the Catalan coast. The former mayor and organisers have stiﬂed complaints by pointing out the competition is bringing €1 billion, 19,000 jobs and an additional 2.5 million visitors to the city.

Britain has so far never won the America’s Cup - only the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland have claimed the trophy in the competition’s prestigious 170year history. Now the UK team must face off against NYYC American Magic, Switzerland’s Alinghi Red Bull Racing, Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, and France’s Orient Express Racing Team in the Challenger Selection Series which includes a round-robin stage, semi-finals and a final from October 12 to 17. The round-robin stage lasts until September 8, where each team races each other twice, with the top four progressing to the semi-finals. In the semi-final stage, the first team to win five races

Mateu Hernandez, the head of Barcelona Tourism, said: “The people who follow the America’s Cup are people who love the sea and have plenty of disposable income. “We are very interested in these types of tourists. Particularly as we need to improve the quality of those tourists who visit the city”.

However, many view this approach as prioritising wealthy visitors and pricing out locals, whilst others, including Marti Cuso, a spokesperson for the protest group Platform Against The Cup, have questioned where exactly the alleged €1bn boost will go. As the arguments continue, one thing is clear - it’s not just the sailors who are bound to experience choppy waters through the early Autumn.

CAPTAIN: Ben Ainslie defends the cup, which is bringing 19,000 jobs to the city

Something in the air?

JSPECIAL REPORT by Cole Sinanian

UST when you hoped the heat ﬁnally abating meant we were going back to normal, two new danger viruses reared their head.

In a risk assessment, the European Centre for Disease Prevention (ECDC), called the increase of imported Mpox cases from African countries ‘highly likely’, while a new disease called Sloth Fever has also emerged.

With victims coming forward across the country it has raised the alarm at the tail end of a busy tourism season that’s seen outbreaks of a number of deadly tropical diseases in Spain. Up until mid August there were 116 cases recorded in Madrid, 67 in Andalucia and a dozen in the Valencian Community as well as the Balearic Islands. Around Spain they totalled 260 victims.

Meanwhile an even nastier new strain of Mpox, known as ‘clade I’ has been wreaking havoc in the Congo.

So bad was the outbreak that the WHO and the Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC) recently declared a ‘public health emergency of continental security’.

And the new highly transmissible strain emerged as other rare infections like West Nile Virus (WNV), Sloth Fever, and Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever have all claimed deaths this year.

With its warmer temperatures and proximity to Africa, Spain commonly sees outbreaks of tropical diseases, particularly during the summer months.

In 2022, for example, Mpox infected 7,521 in Spain, while the West Nile Virus — spread via the native Culex Pipiens mosquito — makes a regular appearance each summer, having so far caused around 20 cases and, at least, ﬁve deaths in Andalucia this year. All in Sevilla.

Experts say the increased movement of people between continents brought by globalisation has played a role in the global spread of tropical diseases.

Meanwhile higher temperatures caused by climate change may affect local transmissibility and the duration of the virus’ activity.

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is spread through physical contact with infected animals or people, and can cause fever and a painful rash that usually lasts from two to four weeks.

Though most people recover, extreme cases of the disease can be fatal.

In 2024, 17,541 cases and 517 deaths have been reported as of August 13, according to the Africa CDC, 96% of which were recorded in the Congo, and most cases spread by sex workers.

PREVENTION: Dr Jacob Lorenzo says the most at-risk groups have been vaccinated

WEST NILE WORRIES

As for West Nile Virus, the mosquito-borne disease whose corresponding sickness — West Nile Fever — can cause headaches, nausea, rashes and death in extreme cases, has circulated locally throughout Europe this summer.

Mpox

There have so far been cases reported in Greece, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, and Romania in addition to Spain, totaling 69 cases by July 31, according to the ECDC. These numbers are normal and are no cause for alarm, the organisation wrote in its release. Another rare, locally transmitted disease that’s made an appearance in Spain this year is Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a deadly, tickborne illness with a 10 to 40% fatality rate.

The virus has already killed two elderly men, the ﬁrst of whom died on May 1 and likely contracted the disease while hiking in the Arribes del Duero National Park in Salamanca.

West Nile Virus

Sloth Fever

The WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (pictured below) described its rapid spread to several neighbouring countries as ‘very worrying’. But despite the hundreds of Mpox cases in Spain this year, the new variant has yet to be detected here, and public health experts assert there’s no reason to panic.

“The numbers are quite low compared to the 2022 outbreak,” Dr Jacob Lorenzo, director of the Institute for Tropical Diseases at the University of La Laguna, told the Olive Press.

The second case was contracted in the Toledo province, and health authorities were notiﬁed on July 21.

According to Muñoz, there may be a relationship between higher year-round temperatures brought by climate change and the emergence of these rare, insect-borne diseases.

“Higher temperatures, and above all milder winters, facilitate the survival of disease-transmitting vectors that in the climatic conditions of 40-50 years ago would not have survived the winter,” he said.

Additionally, other factors may play a role in their increased prevalence, he said, like the abandonment of agricultural land leading to more ticks.

SUPER SLOTH

A number of cases of the deadly Oropouche virus, or Sloth Fever in Europe this summer have also raised concerns. The virus, spread by biting midge flies and mosquitos, has been circulating in Cuba and Brazil, and was brought to Europe by travellers from those countries.

“Additionally, we have previous experience and the most at-risk groups in the country have been vaccinated or are in the process of receiving their second dose, so this year it is a totally different scenario,” he continued.

As cases of Mpox, West Nile virus and Sloth Fever rise in Spain – how worried should we be? The Olive Press asked the health experts for their verdict it the

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MAD NOT TO!

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So what’s the big deal?

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1 - Swedish expat in Spain who once managed the tragic Mike Lynch superyacht gives her verdict on the incident - after 75m vessel sunk off coast of Italy

2- Date is conﬁrmed for start of EU’s Entry/Exit System this autumn - but how will it work?

3- Bull collapses and dies on tourist beach after jumping into the sea during traditional festival on Spain’s Costa Blanca

4- Man in Spain loses his pension after working for 46 years because of this error

5- Tiny village in Spain’s Andalucia is rocked by video of a couple romping on the church altar

Meanwhile, University of Salamanca microbiology professor Juan Luis Muñoz added that most Mpox cases in Europe have resulted from sexual contact.

The ECDC reported 19 European cases in June and July, with 12 reported in Spain, five in Italy and two in Germany. Symptoms can be easily confused with other tropical viruses like Dengue, and often include fevers, rashes, headaches, and muscle pains, though many carriers experience no symptoms. The virus is uncommon and largely unknown to researchers, and had previously been thought to be mostly non-lethal, until two healthy young women died from the virus in Brazil this year. There is a connection between globalisation and the spread of tropical diseases like Oropouche.

He also emphasised the most effective manner of prevention is immediately seeing a doctor if one ﬁnds any strange lesions, and to always engage in safe sex practices.

“There is not a speciﬁc number of cases indicating that the infection is getting out of control and we are still far from worrying ﬁgures,” Muñoz told the paper.

“In the case of vector-borne diseases, there’s an increase in travel and trade between continents, which allows invasive species to reach new territories,” added Lorenzo. Climate change also plays a role, as increasing temperatures worldwide have led to the expansion of tropical zones, and therefore the potential habitat of tropical viruses. However, he emphasises that the risk of transmission of Oropouche in Europe is low, as the species of flies that carry the virus do not exist here.

The most recent ECDC report assessed the risk level for European travellers to Latin American countries as moderate.

Less to pay

ANTICIPATED further interest cuts by the European Central Bank will contribute to signiﬁcant falls in the Euribor - the main benchmark index for mortgages in Spain.

July’s Euribor rate was almost 1% down on a year ago, standing at 3.18% compared to 4.073%. It peaked last September with a monthly average of 4.149%.

Mortgage

The falling Euribor is good news for variable mortgage holders that have repayments reviewed either annually or bi-annually.

For example, a loan of €150,000 over 25 years would fall €40 per month to a new ﬁgure of €933.

Experts believe the downward trend in the Euribor rate will continue for the rest of the year as the European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to make perhaps two interest rate cuts in the next four months, on the back of a 0.25% reduction in June.

Jellyﬁsh problems

POPULAR Costa Brava seaside spots have seen a massive rise in jellyﬁsh this summer, caused by warmer sea temperatures. Reproduction levels have rocketed along with the jellyﬁsh migrating north.

Between May and August, almost 7,500 people in the area needed medical treatment for jellyﬁsh stings - up 41% on the same period last year. The stings, while often painful, can be particularly dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems. MedusApp, a platform on which people report jellyﬁsh sightings and stings, has also recorded hundreds of incidents every day during the summer.

Two Tarragona beaches were shut for a time in July due to the appearance of the Portuguese man o' war which has potentially deadly stings.

PENSION LOST

Man’s mistake costs him state retirement beneﬁts

A 69-YEAR-OLD Spaniard has lost his entitlement to a state pension despite working for 46 years.

The man, named Zahid, has lost a lengthy legal battle after his appeal was rejected by the Madrid High Court. A reduced state pension can be paid out after a minimum contribution period of 15 years. But, crucially for Zahid, two continuous years of contributions must have been made in the 15 years prior to retirement. In his case not only was he not

By Alex Trelinski

paying contributions, but he was not registered for work with social security, so no contributions were assigned to him as unemployed.

He was refused the beneﬁt and decided to sue the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) and the General Treasury of Social Security (TGSS).

Zahid lost the original case at a Madrid Labour Court in October 2023 on the

grounds that he did not meet the two year contribution requirement just prior to retirement as he was

Liquid gold price ﬁght

AN olive oil price war has ignited in supermarkets with Mercadona lowering the cost of a litre of the socalled ‘liquid gold’ of its Suave and Intenso varieties. Both products are now priced at €6.95 - down 67 cents. Mercadona has also announced a €2.91 reduction on three-litre bottles of the same brands and claims to have slashed olive oil prices by 25% so far this year.

The price battle is fuelled by wholesale market prices falling with expectations of a better olive harvest. Distributors are changing their proﬁt margins to announce price cuts for the food product that produced the biggest inﬂationary rise in the last two years. The escalation of olive oil prices during the last year led the government to extend the zero VAT charge until the end of September.

not up to date with contributions from when he was self-employed.

The bench said Zahid worked a total of 16,945 days of which 2,566 days were as self-employed

His pension application was submitted in November 2020 and before that, the INSS told him to pay self-employment contributions totaling around €12,000 that were still outstanding.

Those dates were between May 2008 to September 2010 and from January 2011 to August 2012, which would have brought him back into the 15-year prior to pension qualification period. He failed to do so.

17 YEARS OF ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS

Scan to ﬁnd out more

BARCELONA'S port is using a drone to monitor sulphur emissions from ships in a pilot project in association with the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). Real-time data from the drone is fed into a computer to make sure that vessels are following emission rules. Any ship that has levels above the per-

POLLUTION PATROL

mitted level laid down by the European Union could get a visit from inspectors. As well as checking on ship emissions, the drone also monitors any potential oil spills or ﬂoating debris in the port which

handles a quarter of all maritime trade coming into the country. EMSA drones have been used in other parts of Spain including the Strait of Gibraltar.

Climate threat

SPAIN is facing a devastating cocktail of climate change phenomena that threatens to decimate its tourist industry.

Alongside Italy, France, and the UK, Spain has been identiﬁed as one of the European countries most at risk of losing tourists as extreme weather events become more frequent.

Tourist-centric Malaga has been identiﬁed speciﬁcally as the Spanish region most at risk of excessive heat – one of

DEAL CLOSED: In Beijing

Spain’s tourism industry is at major risk from climate change, study warns

By Walter Finch

three extreme weather phenomena that is predicted to worsen over time.

This is according to a recent study by researchers in Italy which analysed the impact of climate change on popular tourist destinations across

CHINESE company Hygreen Energy will back three major green hydrogen projects in Andalucia including a €2 billion investment for an energy plant in Huelva province. It will also have a factory employing around 1,000 people in the Malaga area featuring technologies linked to the energy sector.

Hygreen has also closed a deal with Cox Abengoa to use its technology in the development of components for green hydrogen at its plant in Sevilla.

Europe.

They identiﬁed the countries with tourism sectors that will most be at risk from excessive heat, ﬂoods and gales.

The areas of Spain most dependent on tourism stand acutely vulnerable to all three. Excessive heat, in particular, is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in

China Green

An agreement was signed in Beijing between the president of Hygreen Spain, Javier Romero, and the head of Cox Abengoa, Enrique Riquelme. The accords came on the first day of an official trip to China by Andalucia president, Juanma Moreno, who visited the Daxing International Zone renewable energy park in the capital and met with officials from Hygreen Energy.

Spain.

The study found that Spain is the second most vulnerable country in Europe to extreme heat.

Around 12% of Spain’s tourist attractions will be aﬀected by extreme heat stress, behind only Italy with a staggering 49%.

This could lead to potential tourists looking elsewhere for a summer holiday in order to avoid the unbearable temperatures.

Excessive heat is likely to also hit France, while strong gales will hit the United Kingdom, Italy and France the most, and ﬂooding will increase the most in France, Italy and the United Kingdom.

And 9% of Spain’s tourist-heavy areas will be aﬄicted by wind storms, making it fourth behind France (13%), Italy (14%) and way out in front is the UK (29%).

SPAIN'S annual inflation rate fell to 2.2% in Augustthe lowest figure since June 2023 when it stood at 1.9%.

The National Institute of Statistics (INE) figures show that reduced fuel prices were behind the fall along with a drop in food and non-alcoholic drink costs.

Inflation has now seen three consecutive months of decline, standing at 3.6% in May.

Finance Minister, Carlos Cuerpo, said it was good economic news as inﬂation falls towards the 2% target set by the European Central Bank.

Inﬂation drops TRAIN STRAIN

THE Spanish government has blocked a €600m bid from a Hungarian consortium for the train manufacturer Talgo, citing ‘risks to national security and public order’. Hungary’s Ganz-Mavag consortium, backed by the country’s populist leader Viktor Orban, has vowed to appeal before the Administrative Chamber of the Supreme Court and seek ‘compensation for all damages caused’ after the decision. Talgo’s shares plummeted 10% in the aftermath of the decision.

Rain pain

SPAIN'S government has asked Morocco for more information about its extensive plans for cloud seeding to create rain.

There are concerns that the initiative - part of Morocco’s national drought plan - might cause bad weather in southern Spain.

Experts believe that making changes to Morocco’s rainfall pattern will trigger thunderstorms, hail and even tornadoes on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar.

Climate engineering has been condemned by the United Nations in a report published after the 2023 climate summit.

It stated that it ‘can trigger a series of chain reactions with signiﬁcant risks to humans, oceans, global temperature, and biodiversity’.

Morocco spent €15 million between 2021 and 2023 on developing an artiﬁcial rain programme to boost its very low rainfall levels.

Some scientists believe that cloud seeding can improve rainfall by up to 15%.

It is usually done by small planes that release chemical compounds into the atmosphere, such as silver iodide or sodium chloride, which create clouds.

DIGGERS: Archaelogists at work at the Neolothic village

LA CULTURA

EARLY FARMERS

ARCHAEOLOGISTS have found a Neolithic village, oﬀering new insights into the lives of some of the ﬁrst farmers in the region.

The excavation at the Huerto Raso site in Huesca has unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts including tools, ceramics, animal remains and possible structures dating back to approximately 5,500 to 3,000 BC. Researchers believe that the village was a

seasonal gathering place for Neolithic communities, eventually evolving into a permanent settlement.

The discovery of animal bones, primarily from hunted species, suggests that hunting remained an important part of their subsistence, even as they transitioned to farming.

The excavation has also uncovered evidence of agricultural activities, including ﬂint tools, milling stones, and potential storage areas.

Stone the crows!

How ancient man created the Dolmen of Menga including a 150-ton rock slab

NEW light has been shed on how the Dolmen of Menga - one of Europe’s most important megalithic structures - was built.

Archaeologists have puzzled over how Neolithic people, equipped with only rudimentary tools, could have moved and precisely placed such massive stones to create the structurethe largest such ancient monument in Spain.

Menga, which is sited in Antequera near Malaga, carefully selected and transported the stones from a nearby quarry, using a sophisticated system of sledges and levelled tracks to manoeuvre the massive slabs 850 metres to the construction

Dating back to around 3,600 BC, it is made from enormous slabs of stone, one weighing over 150 tons. Now, researchers have discovered that the builders of

IMPRESSIVE: The ancient technology used to make the Dolmen showed sophisticated design

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“The extraordinary dimensions of some of the structural pieces of the dolmen required sophisticated design and planning, a large mobilisation of labour, as well as perfectly executed

logistics,” said Jose Antonio Lozano Rodriguez, the lead author of a study published in Science Advances

The builders employed a system of inclined slopes and rollers to move the stones, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of mechanics. The use of corbelled arches

GAME SET AND MATCH

IN the dynamic world of junior athletics, balancing rigorous training schedules with academic responsibilities has long been a challenge for young athletes and their families.

However, the rise of online schooling is revolutionising the way these young sports enthusiasts manage their education, offering a ﬂexible and effective solution that caters to their unique needs.

As online schooling has grown since the pandemic, Crimson Global Academy has seen a signiﬁcant surge in popularity across Europe, particularly among junior athletes. This educational model provides a tailored approach that allows students to pursue their sporting dreams without compromising their academic growth. With the ability to access live classes from anywhere, young athletes can now seamlessly integrate their training and competition schedules with their studies.

Flexibility for training schedules

One of the primary advantages of online schooling for junior athletes is its unparalleled ﬂexibility. Traditional schools often struggle to accommodate the demanding schedules of young sportspeople, leading to missed classes and academic stress.

A game-changing education for junior athletes

Crimson Global Academy, on the other hand, offers customisable timetables with group classes, 1:1 tuition and even asynchronous options that can be adjusted to ﬁt around training sessions and competitions.

Crimson Global Academy also provides a personalised learning experience that can be particularly beneﬁcial for opening up opportunities for junior athletes.

With smaller class sizes and individualised attention from teachers, students can receive the support they need to excel academically whilst not compromising on their sport.

This personalised approach helps tailor the school experience to match their individual goals, whether it be going pro or accessing scholarships for top universities.

Success Stories

Numerous success stories highlight the positive impact of online schooling on junior athletes in Europe. For instance, Timur, a 14-year-old tennis player who just won his category in the Tennis Europe U14 tournament, has been able to maintain his school attendance while training intensively and competing in tournaments.

Previously, he had fallen behind due to the demands of international tournaments.

With CGA’s ﬂexible scheduling and recorded sessions, now Timmy can study from anywhere and access any missed classes online.

Similarly, Caterina, a young equestrian from Italy, credits CGA for providing the ﬂexibility needed to pursue her dream of gaining access to a top European university whilst

and the way the stones were ﬁtted together with precision measured in millimetres suggest a level of architectural sophistication that was previously thought to have developed much later.

The dolmen of Menga was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

maintaining a strict training schedule. CGA’s 1:1 program marked a signiﬁcant shift in Caterina’s academic experience. Caterina’s passion for horse training required a ﬂexible schedule, something that CGA readily accommodated.

She managed her training sessions in the morning and attended her classes in the afternoon, taking advantage of CGA’s scheduling ﬂexibility.

This unique setup allowed her to maintain her rigorous training schedule while not compromising her academic responsibilities.

Caterina explained: “At CGA, so many things are offered that are not in a normal school. And for athletes, it’s really amazing. It’s an amazing system. It really helps you achieve both your academics and your personal goals in whatever sport you’re doing, no matter the sport. I think it’s really a fundamental system for students that have other passions in their lives that they also want to focus on.”

ambitions and keep up with their studies

The future of education for junior athletes

As the demand for ﬂexible and adaptive education solutions continues to grow, online schooling is empowering young sportspeople to achieve excellence both on the ﬁeld and in the classroom.

As more families and athletes embrace this innovative approach, the future looks bright for the next generation of sporting stars in Europe.

DREAMS: Caterina and (below) Timur have been able to pursue their sporting

Dilip Kuner

These 15 culture capitals of Spain will offer free events, food markets and more as part of the annual

‘Heritage Night’ this month

SEGOVIA

As if Segovia wasn’t already enchanting enough, Heritage Night will see it lit up with thousands of candles.

The Jewish quarter, Casa Museo Antonio Machado, Adarve de la Muralla, Puerta de San Andres and Calle Barrionuevo will take part in the candlelight events accompanied by live music.

There will also be a drone show and guided visits throughout the city.

Over a dozen landmarks will also be open to the public including the Alcazar, Cathedral, Palacio de Quintanar and the Torreon de Lozoya.

TIME TO GET CULTURAL S

By Yzabelle Bostyn

OME 15 cities across Spain will be transformed into hives of culture to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Spanish Cultural Heritage Cities Group (GCPHE).

On September 14, important historical sites will open their doors to the public with free dance, theatre and music performances, gastronomic events, workshops and guided tours. It is the seventh edition of the ‘Heri-

tage Night’, a unique event designed to ‘make heritage come to life’.

The GCPHE was created to protect cities declared world heritage sites by UNESCO.

But which cities are they and what events are they hosting to celebrate the anniversary?

CACERES

Walking through Caceres is like walking back in time through mansions, Renaissance palaces and churches.

Much like Alcala de Henares, it is known for its storks, which nestle on the many towers and churches throughout the city.

Described as ‘one of the prettiest old towns in Spain’, Caceres has many curious

cluding the home of the daughter of an Aztec emperor, Moctezuma.

On September 14, the city will be lit up in a theatrical spectacle featuring circus acts, acrobats and pyrotechnics. Caceres has the most monuments open to the public than any other city, with 24

landmarks, inopening their doors.

BAEZA

This city in the province of Jaen was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003 thanks to its ‘stunning’ 16th century architecture. Over the centuries, it has inspired the likes of Francisco Garcia Lorca with its romantic plazas, palaces and

churches.

To celebrate the 30th year of Spanish heritage cities, Baeza has some truly unique events including show cooking in the Patio de Empresas and a textile exhibit in the town hall.

Historic buildings will be opened to the public, including the Cerro del Alcazar, the Convento de la Encarnacion and the Capilla de los Benavides.

This Catalonian city is known for its historical reenactments bringing the Roman Empire back to life.

Essential sights like the Roman Circus and Amphitheatre will be open for visitors, with a range of guided visits.

History buffs will love the ‘Mapping Tarraco’ activity which allows you to discover the old Roman city.

A fusion of the old and new, Cuenca is a menagerie of cobbled streets and ancient buildings housing a thriving abstract art scene.

Set on a rock leaning over a gorge, it has gravity defying hanging houses, dramatic views and an iron footbridge only for the brave.

It was made a World Heritage Site in 1996 and will be celebrating this year with circus workshops, an open mic night and an escape room. The 12th century cathedral, hanging houses and various museums will also be open to the public.

LA CULTURA 11

SALAMANCA

This historic city has one of the oldest universities in Europe and still attracts many students to this day.

As a result, the centre has a lively, youthful feel which grows its ever evolving cultural programme.

This year’s heritage night will include a performance of Chicago: The Musical, an ‘Impossible’ Feria and theatre performances.

Attendees will also be able to enter the cathedral towers, Iglesia de Vera Cruz and the city walls for free.

September 4th - September 17th 2024

MERIDA

This Extremaduran city ‘brings the Roman Empire’ back to life with temples, baths, aqueducts and arches.

It is even home to a still operating Roman theatre, which hosts an International Classical Theatre Festival each year.

To celebrate its heritage, the city in Badajoz province will host a performance by dance duo Marcat Dance, expressing human connection through movement.

Colombian singer Manuel Turizo will also perform, alongside theatre performances. Monuments and museums such as the Palacio de los Corbos and Alcazaba Arabe will also be open to the public.

Known for having some of Europe’s best preserved medieval walls, Avila has winding cobbled streets, interesting religious landmarks and impressive miradors During the festival, you can enjoy a free visit around these with a guided tour, tuktuk ride or theatrical tour.

Many monuments will also be open with free entry including the walls, the Bovedas del Carmen archaeological museum and the emblematic Palacio de Polentinos.

Continues on next page

LA CULTURA 12

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

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CORDOBA

The ‘City of Flowers’, Cordoba is known for its floral patios and rich history. Tourists find themselves wonderfully lost in the labyrinthine old town while searching for the city’s prettiest square. While normally visitors enjoy the famous dancing horses or flamenco spectaculars, the Heritage Night promises a dance performance like no other. British choreographer, Yinka Esi Graves will perform a flamenco inspired piece, also drawing on her experience in contemporary dance.

IBIZA

TOLEDO

A ‘city of three cultures’, Toledo still has its original medieval layout, making it a fascinating day trip from the capital.

A journey around the winding streets is sure to guide you to interesting museums and buildings.

Historic buildings from Christian, Jewish and Muslim religions will be open to the public, including Antigua Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca and the Oratorio de San Felipe Neri.

Although many people know Ibiza as a party island, it is full of nature, culture and rural charm.

The archaeological site at Sa Caleta and necropolis at Puig des Molins show the historical importance of the island alongside the Alta Vila fortress.

Although little of Ibiza's programming for

Heritage Night has been released, it is set to take place between emblematic landmarks such as Ibiza Castle, the Can Marca cave and Dalt Vila walls. So far, a dance performance by Joaquin Collado has been announced, exploring male identities and relationships.

Each year, thousands of pilgrims ﬂock to Santiago de Compostela in A Coruña province to complete the world famous Camino de Santiago.

The university city is a cradle of international culture and this September, it will

ALCALA DE HENARES

Almost 400 years after it was established, Alcala de Henares (Madrid) became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998.

The birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcala is full of history.

From one of Europe’s oldest hospitals to the Cervantes museum, there’s events throughout the whole city to celebrate heritage night.

Catch a live band parading through the streets, concerts at the Convento de San Juan de la Penitencia or watch ﬁlms at the Archaeological Museum.

host a range of activities to celebrate its centuries of heritage. Although the ofﬁcial line up has not been announced, it is thought events will take place around emblematic landmarks like the cathedral.

Famous for its world-class Renaissance architecture, this city is well trodden by tourists visiting Jaen in inland Andalucia.

The churches, palaces and mansions are surrounded by a landscape of olive groves, making it a historic and peaceful getaway. In typical Andalucian style, the city is offering an olive oil tasting to celebrate Heritage Night.

It is also offering planetarium visits, immersive museum experiences, concerts and talks.

Many of the main landmarks will be open to the public, with the majority offering guided visits.

SAN CRISTOBAL DE LA LAGUNA

The streets of San Cristobal de La Laguna (Tenerife) are always buzzing with street music, students and hundreds of bars.

Full of colourful houses and magniﬁcent churches, there is plenty of history running through the cobbles.

Home to the ﬁrst university in the canary islands, they are holding dance classes, drum making workshops and silbo gomero whistling classes to celebrate Heritage Night.

Iconic buildings like the Ermita de Santo Domingo, Casa Anchieta and Plaza del Adelantado will also be open to the public.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Extra ﬂights

BUDGET airline EasyJet has announced ﬁve new routes between the United Kingdom and Spain which will launch next winter and summer.

The carrier is opening a seasonal base at London-Southend airport in March and will run new ﬂights to Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, Almeria and Reus.

Before then - in December - it will open a weekly route between Edinburgh and Gran Canaria.

This year EasyJet opened a summer base at Alicante-Elche airport operating between April and October.

Three planes are based at Alicante with new routes linking up with Glasgow, Belfast, and Southampton with a 10% increase on seat availability compared to the 2023 summer season.

Pay up!

Visa charge next year for Brits visiting Spain

BRITISH tourists travelling to Spain and other European Union countries will have to pay €7 to get a ‘visa waiver’ due to Brexit next summer.

It’s part of the EU’s updated travel rules which start in June 2025 known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) - designed to boost security measures for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area.

OP QUICK CROSSWORD

By Alex Trelinski

ETIAS is an automated IT system aimed at identifying potential security or health risks posed by travellers before they enter the EU.

Authorities say the automated system will simplify checks which took longer at traditional passport controls.

Once issued, the visa waiver will be valid for three

years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

Big spenders

AMERICAN tourist numbers in Spain are rising and visitors are also spending big. Spain's Institute of Tourism - Turespaña - says spending by trans-Atlantic tourists is up by 35% on pre-pandemic levels. Turespaña noted a ‘robust’ increase in the US market last year with arrivals up by 15% and a 35% spike in spending compared to 2019. In raw ﬁgures, there were more than 3.8 million US visitors last year compared to 3.3 million in 2019.

Money left in Spanish coﬀers rose from €5.8 billion to over €7.8 billion in 2023.

7 Plum type (8)

8 Poisonous Javanese tree (4)

9 Trim the dry ﬂy out in Wales (7,6)

10 “The Old Man and ---” (Hemingway) (3,3)

11 Craziness (6) 13 Diamonds (3) 14 Road-going type of family? (3-3) 16 Boat basin (6) 18 Chances (13)

21 She sang to Sidney Poitier in “To Sir, with Love” (4) 22 Recommended (8) Down

1 Not the main event (8)

2 Place in the pecking order (6)

3 Sign of maturity (4,4)

4 Truth (4)

5 Abrupt (6)

6 Cab (4)

11 Drink for conjurer named Leo (8)

12 Brings together (8)

15 Come along (4,2) 17 Impede progress (6)

19 Twelve Popes have had this name (4) 20 Level (4)

This new requirement applies to non-EU citizens from 60 countries who currently access visa-free travel within the EU.

British citizens will be eligible to use the visa waiver for stays of up to 90 days within a 180day period. However,

upon entering the EU, they will also need to supply biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph.

The biometric data collection is part of the Entry/ Exit System (EES), which is planned to start in November 2025

The EES will work in parallel with ETIAS to keep tabs on potential security risks.

Upon arrival in Europe, all travellers will have to scan their passports at self-service kiosks.

But those not having an EU passport will also be required to provide biometric data, which will be stored and veriﬁed during future visits to the Schengen Area.

Better together

A NEW Valencia region campaign is promoting a better understanding between tourists and residents in the wake of anti-tourism protests in Spain this year.

The initiative with the slogan I am also you, I am also a tourist was created by Turisme Communitat Valenciana, the Costa Blanca Tourist Board, and the Hosbec hoteliers association.

Value

The aim is for visitors and locals to value the Mediterranean attitude, to take pride in a destination, and take pleasure in sharing it. Campaign videos posted on social media were shot in Benidorm, Guadalest, the Cabanyal district of Valencia, and Peñiscola.

The Hosbec association said: “We want to raise tourist and resident awareness about a powerful and positive link between both of them.

“We highlight the balance between the uniqueness of a destination and a traveller having an unforgettable experience, with both things being inseparable as everyone is a tourist and a resident at the same time,” it added.

WAIVER: Just a passport will no longer be enough as the ETIAS system comes online

KINGS OF THE WILD FRONTIER

AS the sun finally sets on a beautiful Alentejo evening you start to understand the many references to native Indian tribes.

AI-Powered IT Security

with one of the lowest population densities on the continent.

So the stunning new off-grid hideout Twin Springs, near Almodovar, in inland Portugal, is a welcome luxury escape to enjoy the incredible

fill its natural pools and provide its drinking water.

Set in a hidden valley beside a bubbling brook, the eco-friendly estate gets its name from two freshwater springs that

is excited to announce a partnership with the leading IT security and support company del Sol. This collaboration offers Olive Press enhanced tech support and cybersecurity solutions. will receive exclusive discounts on AnyTech365 ensuring their digital safety and worry-free use Internet-connected device, personal, or within the their small business.

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Entirely surrounded by nature, with not another building in sight, the noises come care of the breezes, the birds (I saw bee-eaters, eagles and storks) and the braying of a distant donkey. And then there is the local shepherd, who passes a few times a week, the sheep bells alerting his arrival, while the continual trickling of water and wind chimes adds to the overriding sense of peace.

Think Spaghetti Westerns, minus the shooting. This is the sort of place that might have inspired Sergio Leone and you expect Lee Van Cleef to saunter in, his spurs clicking and his

The Twin Springs glamping estate near Almodovar, just half an hour from the Algarve will help you ﬁnd your inner native American, writes Jon Clarke

gun in the holster at any moment.

The entirely natural wooden reception area and open kitchen/dining area, named ‘Last Chance Saloon’, accentuates the mood, but an honesty bar is thankfully well stocked with cold drinks, including wine and beer, and there is complimentary tea and coffee for guests.

The giant four-metre bell tents (named Navajo and Apache appropriately) sleep two in complete comfort, while there are additional smaller tents for children to sleep in, or simply play.

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Comprehensive Cybersecurity

divided) as well as two smaller single beds for children, if needed. A third tent, Cherokee, fits a double bed. They are all full of rugs, throws and cushions keeping with the native Indian theme, while both swimming and bath towels are provided.

But the communal areas and, particularly, bathroom and toilet blocks are what turns this into a genuine ‘glamping’ resort and really makes this a must-stay for anyone looking to visit this largely unknown part of Portugal.

The brainchild of British expats Pauline and Sid Olivera, they starred in TV programme, A New Life in the Sun , this year, as they juggled lives between Spain, Gibraltar and Portugal, to prepare and launch the retreat.

Each of the big tents comfortably fits a double bed (which can be radio stations from London to Gibraltar the pair have creativity and talent coming out of their ears, not to mention drive. staffer, Pauline - who lived for many years near Ronda - explains: “We fell in love with this place the minute we found it. We had been wanting to do an eco-retreat like this in the Serrania de Ronda for AUTHENTIC: The Last Chance Saloon has all mod cons despite looking like a shack from the historic Wild West

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Having run hairdressing businesses and

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Phishing emails are the internet’s bad puns, seemingly harmless but capable of regrettable consequences. These deceptive messages mimic trusted entities like banks or postal services. Signs of a phishing attempt include generic greetings, sloppy grammar, and urgent requests for personal information. If it feels like a bad action movie, treat it like a scam. Remember, trusting a phishing email is like trusting a ﬁsh to walk on land, it’s just not going to end well.

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intelligence (AI) to offer unparalleled service quality and efficiency in tech support and cybersecurity, keeping your digital life secure and hassle-free.

The

Imagine a call claiming to be from Microsoft, warning of a computer virus turning your device into a toaster. Legitimate tech companies don’t operate this way, no unsolicited house calls or surprise diagnoses. Ignore demands for payment to ﬁx non-existent issues and promptly dismiss such calls. Just remember, Bill Gates doesn’t need your 50€ to ﬁx a “virus.” If Microsoft really did want to turn your computer into

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and

(Source:

a toaster, they’d probably include a bread slot in the next Windows update.

The company and their solutions have been widely recognized and won multiple awards on local, national, and international level such as “The Fastest growing technology company in Spain and the 27th fastest growing company in Europe across all sectors” (Source: Financial Times FT1000), the Andalucía Excellence Award in New Technologies, and others. Making a meaningful local impact, AnyTech365 has been a proud title-sponsor of the Andalucía Open tennis tournament, including the ATP 250 tournament in 2021, the biggest sporting event in the region. It has excellent online reputation scores with tens of thousands of end user reviews on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google Reviews (4.9/5).

and

The company is currently in the process of becoming publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with the transaction expected to complete in Q3 of 2024.

online shouldn’t resemble a soap opera script, unless you’re auditioning for “As ” tions! You’ve won the you never entered. uine lotteries never demand payment upfront. Treat unexpected prize notiﬁcations with scepticism, just like an unsolicited offer of a free yacht. Avoid disclosing personal infor-

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On dating sites, scammers craft fictitious profiles, offering affection and then fabricating crises like robbery or travel mishaps. Requests for money signal a scam, real connections should withstand video calls. If it sounds melodramatic, it’s time to disconnect. After all, ﬁnding true love

Making a meaningful local impact, AnyTech365 has been a proud title-sponsor of the Andalucía Open tennis tournament, including the ATP 250 tournament in 2021, the biggest sporting event in the region. It has excellent online reputation scores with tens of thousands of end user reviews on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google Reviews (4.9/5).

The company is currently in the process of becoming publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with the transaction expected to complete in Q3 of 2024.

and others. Making a meaningful local impact, AnyTech365 has been a proud title-sponsor of the Andalucía Open tennis tournament, including the ATP 250 tournament in 2021, the biggest sporting event in the region. It has excellent online reputation scores with tens of thousands of end user reviews on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google Reviews (4.9/5). The company is currently in the process of becoming publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with the transaction expected to complete in Q3 of

The company is currently in the process of becoming publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with the transaction expected to complete in Q3 of 2024.

clicking on suspicious links. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam. Winning a lottery you didn’t enter is as likely as ﬁnding a unicorn in your backyard, and both should be treated with equal disbelief. Secure accounts with complex, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA).

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MFA acts as a digital bouncer, safeguarding against unauthorized access. Regularly update devices, operating systems, and antivirus software to maintain digital hygiene. Think of your password as your online superhero, it should be strong, unique, and definitely not the name of your pet goldfish. In the unfortunate event of a scam, cease communication immediately. Report the incident to authorities and monitor financial statements for unauthorized transactions. Seek support from AnyTech365 and consider a fraud alert on credit reports. Remember, dealing with a scam is like dealing with a bad haircut, act swiftly to minimize the damage and prevent a repeat performance. Navigating cyberspace needn’t be grim. Keep informed, exercise caution, and maintain a sense of humour to outwit scammers. Laugh at their futile attempts and revel in the benefits of a secure digital life. After all, a well-secured online presence is the best defence against cyber trolls and their schemes. So, stay sharp, stay safe, and keep trolling the trolls with your digital wit and wisdom!

World class, cross-platform security platform with scanning techniques to identify potential threats files, programs and neutralization of viruses, malware, phishing attempts.

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with

of thousands of end user reviews on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google Reviews (4.9/5).

The company is currently in the process of becoming publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with the transaction expected to complete in Q3 of 2024.

This really is the true Wild West of Europe, a frontier region, hardly developed peace and quiet of the region.

the

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

years, but it never quite happened.

“This has long been our dream and, like us, our guests love being at one with nature and being able to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.”

There was certainly a definitive ‘wow factor’ as we weaved our way down the narrow track towards the retreat, some ten minutes from Almodovar and just five from the sleepy Portuguese villages of Gomes Aires and Santa Clara-a-Nova.

The sense of freedom and space was the main takeaway, while having a base to explore this interesting region of Portugal was invaluable… the

HEALTH

Beware the heat

THE increasingly high temperatures experienced in Spain could see a surge in thrombosis, doctors have warned.

According to Juan Carlos Reverter, the president of the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis (SETH), in extreme heat ‘the blood does not circulate well’.

The expert said there are two heat-related factors that cause people to be at a greater risk of thrombosis.

Thrombosis is when a person’s blood clots due to it becoming thicker or due to their veins becoming clogged, or a combination of the two.

“With heat, the risk of dehydration can be greater and this increases the viscosity (thickness) of the blood," said Reverter.

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charming provincial city of Beja being just 45 minutes away and Evora a little bit further. The Vale do Guadiana national park is nearby, as is the Santa Clara lake district.

Even better are the legendary curries that Sid can knock up on request for guests, plus a range of other dishes, such as a Sunday roast. They can also arrange your shopping, laundry and nearby trips. Best of all though was at night, eating dinner as the sun set and then - with zero light pollution - seeing the amazing wide open sky full of stars come out. It was almost tempting to scrap the glamping tent altogether and sleep outdoors. But where then would be the glamour!

For September and October, Sid and Pauline are offering OP readers a special three nights for the price of two deal, plus an optional free curry. Visit www.twinspringsglamping.com or email pauline. olivera@yahoo.com

Fentanyl fears

US opiates pandemic reaches Spain

A SPANIARD has died from a suspected fentanyl overdose, after returning home from a trip to an undisclosed European country. The man - in his mid-20’s - was at his parents’ house and began to feel ill and became agitated, and aggressive. His family called for an ambulance which took him to Malaga’s Regional Hospital with the initial diagnosis being acute intoxication brought on by drug consumption. The man went into a coma and died a few hours later.

A Malaga court is now in-

OP Puzzle solutions

Quick Crossword

Across: 7 Victoria, 8 Upas, 9 Merthyr Tydﬁl, 10 The Sea, 11 Lunacy, 13 Ice, 14 Two-car, 16 Marina, 18 Opportunities, 21 Lulu, 22 Endorsed.

Down: 1 Sideshow, 2 Status, 3 Grey hair, 4 Fact, 5 Sudden, 6 Taxi, 11 Lemonade, 12 Convenes, 15 Crop up, 17 Retard, 19 Pius, 20 Tier.

By Alex Trelinski

vestigating the cause of his death after tests showed he took a high amount of alcohol and narcotics.

It’s believed he took cocaine and fentanyl - which is harder to detect than ‘traditional’ drugs.

Opiate

The US Drug Enforcement Agency has warned that the opiate is being used as a cutting substance for cocaine to make it more addictive and enhance its consumption.

Experts say that identifying fentanyl in certain circumstances is harder, especially if a deceased person has been in hospital and has received medicines which can camouﬂage the presence of the drug during post mortem tests.

The consumption of fen-

‘Lobster’ cockroach

A COCKROACH species new to Spain could be resistant to insecticides.

The University of Oviedo spent two years going through rubbish bins in the Asturias region to ﬁnd the ‘lobster’ cockroach.

tanyl in Spain appears to be minimal and associated mainly with medical treatments.

In the United States, there’s a very diﬀerent picture where it is estimated that fentanyl amongst drug users causes over 60,000 deaths each year.

Doctor Robotnik

VALENCIAN health authorities will start using Artiﬁcial Intelligence to ‘shorten diagnosis times and prioritise patients based on risk’.

The development will start in September and hopes to ‘improve hospital capacities’.

For example, AI will be used on breast cancer patients by entering details of the patient’s symptoms and prioritising treatment based on the calculated risk factor.

The programme also uses machine learning to scan mammograms and identify breast cancer.

The new breed had not been previously documented in Spain and now joins a list of invasive species.

Tolerance

Scientists discovered 149 specimens of the lobster cockroach but it is not known where it originated from.

Recent studies have shown that species such as the ‘blond’ cockroach, are developing a strong tolerance to pyrethroids - one of the most common insecticides available.

According to experts, these products could also be ineﬀective against ‘German’ cockroaches and possibly against the new lobster cockroach.

YOUNG supporters of UD Las Palmas gave their new star striker a surprising gift to celebrate his debut for the club - a bottle of aftersun.

Oli McBurnie, who represents Scotland at international level, reportedly turned down a salary three times greater than what he earns at the Gran Canarian club in order to make his ‘dream move’ from the Premier League earlier this summer.

GINGER

With ginger hair, pale skin and an ironic surname, many Las Palmas supporters were worried how their new forward would adapt to the Canary Island’s sunshine.

So after making his debut in a 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla, a group of young fans hatched a cunning plan - in exchange for McBurnie’s No.16 shirt, they would oﬀer him a bottle of aftersun.

Following his move from Sheffield United, McBurnie had joked that he was preparing for life in Spain by ‘buying four bottles of aftersun’.

O P LIVE RESS

COSTA BLANCA SUR / MURCIA

STRUGGLING swimmers on one Costa del Sol beach could ﬁnd an unexpected saviour in the shape of eight highly-trained lifeguard dogs. Torre del Mar has introduced the pioneering canine rescue unit, part of the MasreQ Emergency Canine Unit (U.C.E), ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

Consisting of three Newfoundlands capable of towing two tons and three labradors with exceptional search and rescue skills, the program is the first of its

Lifeguard pooches help save swimmers

WATER DOGS

Guiris move over

By Walter Finch

PAW PATROL: Newfoundlands take to the seas to help save lives

GALICIANS have a name for tourists who don’t respect their traditions –but it isn’t for Brits. They call hapless tourists from Madrid fodechinchos, which translates literally as ‘ﬁsh thieves’.

Hubby shock

kind in Andalucia. The unit boasts two other dogs, including a mixed-breed named Pancho, who is known for his incredible ability in rescue work. Having already been proven successful in Valencia, these dogs have undergone rigorous training to become water rescue experts.

rescue animals; they're part of our family," said Duran.

A WOMAN found her husband was having an aﬀair with the priest who married them after she caught them ‘kissing passionately’. When confronted, they said ‘it is what it is’ and ‘started laughing.’

Tinder-dona

"In just one year, we transform these pups into life-saving heroes," said Manuel Duran, the program manager. With their strength,

endurance, and keen senses, the canine lifeguards can perform tasks that would be diﬃcult or dangerous for humans, be it rescuing swimmers caught in rip currents or searching for missing persons. The safety of the dogs is paramount. Each one is equipped with specialised ﬂotation devices, and their daily routines are carefully managed to ensure they stay healthy and hydrated.

"These dogs are more than just

The success of the program has not gone unnoticed. With plans for expansion and public training sessions, Torre del Mar's canine lifeguards are set to become a model for other coastal communities.

As Duran puts it: "These dogs are not just saving lives; they're inspiring people and fostering a deeper connection between humans and animals."

THE new dating craze sweeping Spain is to turn up at Mercadona between 7 and 8pm with an upside down pineapple in your trolley to show you are single.