Chilling out
are Andalucia’s best inland swimming spots
RIP Maria
THE 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 had no health complications other than hearing and mobility issues.
The ‘Super Grandmother’, beat Covid in 2020 and had survived the Spanish Civil War, a deadly earthquake in the US and a major fire.
See Viva España page 6
12
MODERN MIRACLES
The minimalist designs of Spain’s new churches
See page 9
Ibiza hotel takes inspiration from 60s California
Deal deadline
Date given for the start of the EU’s new passport control system that could cause havoc at the border
By
GIBRALTAR has been given a deadline to secure a post-Brex it deal with Spain after the announcement of the start date of the European Union’s long-awaited new passport con trol system.
From November 10, nonEU travellers entering the Schengen Area will face stricter border controls as the Entry/Exit System (EES) becomes operational.
The EES will have a unique im pact on the lives of the thousands of people who cross the border between Spain and Gibraltar on a regular basis.
It will require non-EU citizens to scan their passports at self-ser vice kiosks when entering and leaving the bloc.
On the first time entering through the EES, they will also have to have their picture taken and possibly their fingerprints scanned.
The requirements won’t apply to EU residents – including British TIE holders in Spain – but they likely will to Brits and Gibraltarians residing on the Rock if a deal is not secured. The
Sources from within the ministry told El Pais that the difficulties lie with the intransigence of the government of Gibraltar.
Chaos
“While [Spanish Foreign Minister] Albares has been warning [Spanish] public opinion for months that they will have to make sacrifices to reach an agreement, [Gibraltar Chief Minister] Picardo has not prepared the Gibraltarians themselves for the concessions that are inevitable.”
ities claim to be working to minimise disruption, travellers are advised to allow extra time for border checks when planning their trips.
British government agencies and travel industry representatives have warned of potential chaos at border crossings.
However, Guy Opperman, a former UK transport minister, has since explained the scheme will have a ‘six-month soft launch’ to iron out any inevitable wrinkles.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner
erators, 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.
“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.”
Once in effect, there are fears that the system could lead to long queues at the frontier with Spain, where border fluidity is essential to the 15,000 people who cross the frontier every day.
While author -
Ylva Johansson said: “There may have been times you believed it would never happen. But the EES is going to happen.”
“Everything is coming together. We’re in the final testing phase. There is a real momentum now. Carriers, op-
Overhaul
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.
Walter Finch
NEW FRONTIERS: Updated border controls due soon
Nightclub death
AN AUTOPSY has confirmed a male British tourist was strangled to death ‘by a nightclub doorman’ in Spain’s Gran Canaria on July 27.
Smells fishy
A SPANISH lawyer has been arrested on suspicion of bribing high-ranking officials in Equatorial Guinea to secure a lucrative contract for a fish processing plant.
Fire tragedy
AN 80-year-old man has been left ‘brain dead’ after a fire fighting aeroplane dumped water on his head in Alía, Caceres.
Driving crackdown
THE Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) has announced that it will be stepping up its efforts to catch drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs from August 19-25.
THE Gibraltar Financial Intelligence Unit (GFIU), is warning university students against the dangers of becoming money mules. In partnership with the Department of Education, the initiative
MONEY MULES
teaches students how to protect themselves against organised crime groups.
It is part of the GFIU’s outreach program, Project Nexus. Money mules are individuals who are exploited to transfer money obtained illegally to help criminal networks.
They warned that sophisticated schemes targeting vulnerable adults, particularly university students, are on the rise. It will use flyers, online resources and social media provided by Europol.
Where is Bernie?
THE family of an Irish expat who vanished more than 30 years ago have launched a fresh appeal for information.
The case of Bernadette Cooper continues to be shrouded in mystery, with her nephew convinced she had links to organised crime - after he allegedly received death threats for looking into what happened to her. Bernadette moved to the Costa del Sol with her husband Brian in the late 1980s and they opened up Molly Malones bar in Benalmadena Costa.
But things went south when the business struggled to make ends meet and the couple’s marriage broke down.
Nephew of Irish expat who vanished in 1993 fears mafia involvement in her disappearance
In late 1992, Bernadette decided to temporarily shut up shop and returned to the UK - where she had lived - so she could apply for a loan that would keep the bar afloat.
Her last known contact with her friends or family was in January 1993, when she phoned a pal living on the Costa del Sol to tell him she had secured the funds and was on her way back. She was never seen or heard from again.
To this day, the family do not
By Laurence Dollimore
know if she ever made her flight to Spain.
They spent years contacting people along the coast but no one claimed to know a thing, and the case went cold.
There were fresh hopes of a lead in 2020 when Surrey Police reopened the case following a tipoff from Bernadette’s nephew Leon Moore.
CIVIL INVESTIGATORS
TWO civilian Financial Investigators have joined the RGB’s Economic Crime Unit.
Sophia Lombard and Tony Ford will join a team of officers to investigate financial crimes from international money laundering to large scale fraud. They will be a vital part of Gibraltar’s continued work in comply-
ing with Moneyval obligations to counter money laundering and terrorist financing.
Both new recruits have much experience, Sophia having worked as a chartered accountant and Tony for the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission and Financial Intelligence Unit.
Moore revealed that Bernadette’s real name was actually Susan, a fact investigators never knew before, meaning, according to him, the investigation was ‘wrong from the start.’
Moore made the comment during an episode of his pod-
cast series called The Missing. The series will take a look at Bernadette’s last known movements both in Spain and the UK.
Moore is convinced that his aunt, who would now be aged 81, had links with a crime gang on the Costa del Sol.
A spokesperson for the family said: “Please, someone must know something. Her nephew has already had a death threat.
“Was this a crime perpetrated by an organised gang, or someone who knew she was carrying money?
“We are reaching out to the expat community on the Costa del Sol for any information that could assist us in seeking the truth.”
Do you know anything about this case? Email tips@theolivepress.es
Dangerous driving
A LOCAL man has been arrested following a dangerous driving incident last week.
The 25-year-old is the first of many expected arrests, confirmed by Royal Gibraltar Police on Saturday night.
It follows an incident at 12.15 am on Monday, August 12 when a speeding car failed to stop for officers on Devil’s Tower Road.
Wrong
According to RGB, it was driving the wrong way around the Sundial Roundabout and Winston Churchill Avenue, swerving to avoid oncoming traffic.
Officers suspended the chase as it was too dangerous to continue.
The arrests follow footage of the arrests going viral on social media.
While the investigation continues, the man was bailed.
Icy protocol
AS temperatures soar zoo animals have been given ice-cream treats to help them cool down.
Bioparcs in Fuengirola and Valencia have mixed fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and insects into special frozen blends designed for each spe cies’ dietary needs.
Gorillas, chimpanzees, gibbons and lemurs are some of the animals which enjoyed colourful sor bets 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 horse-drawn 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
EXCLUSIVE
By
public concerns after a video emerged showing a donkey collapsing in the heat, as the Olive Press revealed in our last issue.
“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
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
bosals on to restrict them.
“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
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.
Fluid by design
HIS ‘gender flu id’ designs have made a splash ever since his first fashion show in London in 2016.
Now Alejandro Gomez AKA Palomo Spain, the 31-yearold Andalucian, has been recognised by Spain’s Ministry of Culture with the National Design Award.
Judges described his designs as ‘the work of a creator who has managed to establish a unique perspective within the fashion de sign industry’.
It is hard to argue that his men’s wear collec tion is not unique, using daring materials such as chiffon, feathers and beads and more feminine themes than usually mod elled by men. Indeed, his latest col lection 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 con tract.
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.
winter months when fewer tourists visit Spain.
Yzabelle Bostyn
ANIMAL ABUSE: Donkeys still working despite heat
Unbeaten
GIBRALTAR’s men’s cricket team went unbeaten to win the Bulgarian Series, hosted in Sofia.
They gave a series of dominant performances against the hosts Bulgaria and Sofia to clinch the win under captain Kieron Ferrary.
GIBRALTAR Cultural Services has announced the lineup for the ‘Rock El Kasbah’ festival. The event will take place on Saturday, September 7. It will celebrate Gibraltarian culture and identity through music and performance as
Rocking the Rock
part of National Week.
The outdoor stage at Castle Steps will kick off with performances from Adrian Pisarello and the Band Universe. He is followed by The Ace Band, Yusef and Zorah, Broken Arrows, and Heritage to close the festivities. There will also be entertainment by
playwright Julian Felice with his ‘Main Street’ monologue and a segment from GAMPA’s ‘La Maleta’, a tribute to women who lived through the evacuation.
Barbary exercise Ban appeal
OXFORD University cadets have taken part in an extensive exercise in Gibraltar. It aimed to attract young students into the army. The two-week programme was known as Exercise Barbary Warrior. It included students from Oxford University’s Officer Training Corps (UOTC), as well as others from Northern Ireland, Southampton, Exeter, and London.
Kick in the teeth
British tourist ‘is beaten up by donkey taxi driver’ for trying to document ‘animal abuse’
ABUSE: Activists claim the donkeys have welts
A BRITISH tourist claims he was attacked by a Mijas donkey owner while attempting to expose ‘horrific animal abuse’.
Ian Grace, 52, began filming after seeing six horse drawn carriages operating in Mijas Pueblo despite the ‘insufferable heat’.
The incident occurred at around 6.30pm on Sunday, August 18, during an orange weather alert for extreme temperatures.
According to new town hall rules, introduced this month, no animals should be working if an orange or red heat alert has been issued by weather agency Aemet.
Ian started filming the stables after being shocked that hors-
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EXCLUSIVE
By Yzabelle Bostyn
es and donkeys were still being forced to work.
Speaking to the Olive Press this week, Ian claimed a donkey owner suddenly ‘ran around the barrier and smacked him in the face’.
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Ian said he was knocked to the ground and pinned down by the man who repeatedly punched him in the face, smashing his glasses and throwing his phone across the pavement.
The businessman was left with various cuts to face and neck after the attacker allegedly screamed: “I’m going break your head.”
Ian added: “I’m an activist and I've stood up to abusers before, but I have never been assaulted like that.
“He couldn’t abuse the animals so he turned on me instead.”
The incident follows a number of videos that have surfaced online showing the donkeys collapsed in the street due to extreme heat.
Ian, who lives in Shrewsbury, England, but spends much time in Spain, branded the tradition a ‘stain’ on the country he loves.
“I love Spain but this is abusive, I want to empower people to document the plight of the donkeys,” he continued.
The assault has prompted a protest urging tourists to boycott the controversial donkey taxis.
Organised by pressure group Free Mijas Donkeys and Horses, the protest will take place on Thursday, August 22.
It will see some 100 people gather outside the tourism of-
BLOODY: Ian was left with cuts and grazes to his face
fice at 1pm.
Anne Blitz (pictured inset), the leader of Free Mijas Donkeys, claims despite the town hall's attempts to make the practice more ethical, donkey owners ‘do not respect the rules’.
Currently, owners are not allowed to run donkey taxis during orange and red heat alerts and should not operate between 2pm and 6pm if yellow alerts are in place. Activists claim Mijas town hall is already considering a ban, as they are ‘fed up’ with complaints from tourists and fear they are avoiding the town altogether.
It comes nine months after the new PP government established an animal welfare department and began introducing new measures to improve the donkeys’ wellbeing, such as dedicated veterinary services.
Blitz claims the Minister for Animal Well Being, Marco Cortes, has pledged to end the practice but says it will ‘take a long time’ to dismantle as the 65 donkeys come from 26 local families.
When approached by the Olive Press, the council did not respond to a request for comment.
She proposes swapping the donkeys for tuktuks or creating a new attraction by establishing a sanctuary.
Opinion Page 6
Literary lineup
MORE speakers have been announced for the Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival.
Louisa Treger will speak about her new novel detailing the life of Picasso’s muse, photographer and painter, Dora Maar. Meanwhile, former footballer Nedum Onuoha (pictured) will present his book Kicking Back
He will be joined by Guillem Balague, who will discuss his biographies on Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. British-Spanish resident, Manni Coe will present his new book exploring brotherhood, brother.do.you.love.me. Finally, former Chief Secretary of the Government of Gibraltar, author and historian, Richard Garcia will give a talk covering his 20 books and docuseries.
THE Spanish FA will appeal UEFA’s one match bans for national team players Alvaro Morata and Rodri Hernandez for leading chants of Gibraltar español during the Euro 2024 celebrations.
The incident occurred during the celebrations in Madrid following Spain's 2-1 triumph over England in the final. As the players revelled in their victory, Morata and Rodri were seen and heard chanting ‘Gibraltar is Spanish,’ a statement that quickly drew the ire of the Gibraltar Football Association (GFA).
The GFA lodged a formal complaint with UEFA, condemning the chants as ‘extremely provocative and insulting.’
Scorcher!
THE Rock recorded its hottest day of the year last Sunday at 36.1C. It beat the previous record, reached on July 12, by 2.4C. The new number is also two degrees above the long term average for August. It is close to the maximum temperature of August 2023, 35.9C.
Ukrainian support
ROYAL Gibraltar Regiment soldiers have trained up 116 Ukrainian recruits in a fiveweek Basic Infantry Course. The team of 18 soldiers joined British Army Reservists and the Estonian Army in the UK for the training. It is part of a multinational effort, aimed at transforming new recruits into skilled soldiers.
The training covered weapon handling, medical training, and various combat techniques.
It included urban, rural, and trench warfare, ending with a live fire phase.
Over 30,000 Ukrainians have received training in the UK to date.
Royal ship
GIBRALTAR has welcomed Cunard’s newest ship, the Queen Anne to the Rock. The cruise line was given a warm welcome by Gibraltar Tourist Board CEO, Kevin Bossino. Its inaugural call to Gibraltar’s Port, the event was part of Queen Anne’s maiden season. The welcome coincided with a visit from Princess Cruises’ Island Princess, seeing 5045 cruise passengers enter town. Mr Bossino exchanged plaques with Captain David Hudson before touring the ship.
There
In hot water
Spain’s Mediterranean waters have hit a scalding 31.87C at the Dragonera buoy off the west coast of Mallorca, beating the previous record of 31.36C set in August 2022.
Meanwhile, the Mediterranean Sea set a new average surface temperature record of 28.15C on Saturday, August 10. It is the highest temperature ever recorded for the Mediterranean since data collection began in 1982, accord-
Spain see its highest ever
sea temperature while average temperature also sets new high
By Walter Finch
ing to the Mediterranean Environmental Studies Center (CEAM).
In recent weeks, temperatures across the French and Italian coasts have surged by
Brits in the sun
A BRITISH firm has reached a deal to buy 12 solar power projects in Spain with an overall capacity of 248 megawatts – enough to power 620,000 homes.
UK-headquartered NextEnergy Capital (NEC) has made the investment in Spanish renewable energy – mainly in the northeast of the country – for an undisclosed sum. Earlier this year, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that it expects solar power investment to reach €500 billion worldwide – more than will be invested into any other single technology.
Solar is expected to make up roughly a quarter of the world’s total clean energy investments made in 2024.
as much as 5C above the seasonal norm.
The sea heating in the Mediterranean is occurring 20% faster than the global average of other seas and oceans, while 18 of the 20 highest values observed since 1982 have been recorded between 2023 and 2024.
These exceptional water temperatures are liable to create atmospheric conditions which could give rise to previously unseasonable storms more akin to what is found in the Caribbean.
Experts warn that these extreme temperatures could signal bad news for marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
The rapid warming of the Mediterranean is leading to a process known as ‘tropicalisation’, which could result in the loss of biodiversity and the see the spread of harmful algae and seaweed blooms. Furthermore, these high sea temperatures can intensify extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall.
Experts have spoken of dozens of coral species being subject to a ‘mass mortality event’ brought about by the rise in sea levels.
NEW IDEAS NEEDED
THE impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, particularly during these scorching summer months.
Temperatures are soaring, and rainfall, when it does occur, is often heavy and sudden.
With Europe experiencing the consequences of climate change more acutely, many people are now personally understanding the significance of sustainability.
But when did sustainability become such a prevalent topic of discussion, and what are the fundamental principles that guide it?
Theoretically, Hans Carl von Carlowitz was one of the first proponents of sustainability. Around 1700, noticing a scarcity of wood, he realised that only as much wood should be harvested as could be replenished. This laid the foundation for the sustainable use of resources.
However, the ‘Club of Rome’ marked the beginning of modern sustainability in 1972.
It represented a countermovement to the burgeoning capitalism of the time and questioned whether unlimited growth was truly possible with limited resources. The club developed 12 scenarios and concluded that: “If the present growth trends in world population, industrialisation, pollution, food production, and resource depletion continue, the limits to growth on this planet will be reached sometime within the next 100 years.
“The most probable result will be a rather sudden and uncontrollable decline in both population and industrial capacity.”
Even today, the report is continuously updated with current figures. While the Club of
Rome originally projected this tipping point for 2050, Gaya Harrington published a study in 2020 suggesting that the peak of growth could be reached as early as 2030. Instead of looking towards the future, people are often preoccupied with the ‘now,’ as they are frequently struggling with daily survival.
To counteract this, the global community, represented by the UN, agreed on 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. At the top of the list are the eradication of poverty and hunger, but health and education also rank high. To promote a sustainable economy, goals such as ‘affordable and clean energy,’ sustainable infrastructure, and ‘responsible consumption and production’ were included.
The final major theme is the restoration and protection of ecosystems. Through our past actions, we have already destroyed numerous ecosystems, ultimately harming ourselves: we are destroying the planet on which we live and on whose resources we depend. If we irreversibly destroy it, the prediction made by the Club of Rome will come true.
The UN’s goals are set to be achieved by 2030. It now seems impossible to achieve all of them. But perhaps we can still accomplish something if we all work together?
The SDGs are explained simply and comprehensively, including practical examples, on the UN website.
Maybe one of you will come up with an idea that helps make the world a little better? And if we all do a little more, together we will have already achieved a great deal!
Voted
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.
In fact, insisting on keeping such antiquated tourist attractions actually puts tourists off visiting places like Mijas, Andalucia.
No one wants to see a poor donkey collapsed in the street or trudging tourists around in the blistering sun.
While the costumes and frills of the Mijas donkeys may make them look more attractive, activists claim they are hiding blisters and welts sustained from their ‘work’ and that more often than not, their hooves are cracked and sore.
Why continue this barbaric practice when there are perfectly viable options available that do not involve abusing animals?
The animals’ main advocate has even designed a cute donkey themed tuk tuk to replace the animals and we are sure tourists would love it.
With increasing protests from animal rights organisations and aggression from the donkey drivers themselves, it is only a matter of time before Mijas is forced to pull the plug on its donkey days.
PUBLISHER / EDITOR
Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es
Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es
Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es
Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es
Simon Hunter simon@theolivepress.es
Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es
Ben Pawlowski ben@theolivepress.es
theolivepress.es
theolivepress.es
CELEBRITY showdown
Look no further than Ibiza and Marbella if you want to spot celebs - but who has been where?
Marbella
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.
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-
The Manchester United legend jetted into Spain with
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 yesterday, 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.
He gave his opinion ahead of the Euros final, declaring a 2-1 En gland win. However, it wasn’t to be for En gland as Spain defeated the side 2-1 in Berlin.
Spain’s football prod igy, Lamine Yamal celebrated the win in Marbella, declaring it ‘very
Viva España
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.
“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.
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
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.
“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. 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 and 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
They aren’t the only footballers who love the Costa del Sol.
Banus.
Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland toured Marbella, Sotogrande and Tarifa while visiting in June.
The 36-year-old held a press conference at the Hard Rock Marbella to promote the fight night, scheduled for October 12. A cradle of all things luxury.
The pair partied at local venue, Mosh Fun Kitchen, although it lona player was also spotted
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.
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 and fun’.
He has made two visits to the Costa del Sol since Spain’s Euros victory, alongside teammate Nico Williams.
Alcaraz, Michael Jordan, Sean Christopher,
RIPE AGE: Maria Branyas Morera was the oldest person in the world until this week
Pool grab
RESIDENTS of four large apartment blocks face losing their swimming pools, gardens and car parks as part of an ongoing legal dispute.
The properties in Benalmadena, which comprise 1,750 flats, may not officially own the two hectares of land surrounding them.
The buildings in El Gamonal were constructed by the Sofico group, founded back in the 1960s during the regime of dictator Francisco Franco.
Tourism was on the rise in Spain, back then, and construction in the area became wild and rampant.
Sofico went bust in the 1970s so it was a great surprise when the residents received notifications from the company’s heirs in 2015, informing them they were claiming ownership of the plots of land.
The four blocks, Agata, Hercules, iris and Aguila, do not have detailed documentation, making it difficult to prove ownership.
The ensuing legal battle has so far seen Sofico victorious, obliging the residents to pay for the land or lose access to it.
The company has won its case in the local courts as well as on a provincial level.
Now the litigation is headed to the Supreme Court, where the residents are hopeful they will win.
Should their legal bid fail, they will likely lose the land valued at around €12 million.
The residents insist they now have the right to the land as they have been paying for lifeguards, gardeners, water bills and taxes, among other communal costs, for decades.
“If we don't get something in the Supreme Court we will have to pay Sofico to recover the land, which is what they want, to make a profit,” one owner, lawyer Bernardo Gomez, told local newspaper, Diario Sur.
“This is unacceptable, we are going to fight this until the end.”
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE
THE Hard Rock Hotel in Marbella has been taken off the property market – its owners will, instead, keep the establishment on their portfolio, thanks to its ongoing profitability.
Stoneweg Hospitality and Bain Capital Credit are the two firms that own the hotel, which began to take shape as a project back in 2021.
According to real estate portal Idealista, the Hard Rock Hotel Marbella was born after Stoneweg and Bain bought up the Hotel Andalucia Plaza, as part of a strategy to reposition Marbella as a luxury destination.
The location of the establishment, in Puerto Banus, was part of the opportunity that the firms identified.
Refurbishment work was completed in 2022, and included a major upgrade of the facilities, in order to attract high-
net-worth tourists seeking luxury and entertainment experiences.
But a recent move to put the hotel on the market for sale has, reportedly, come to nothing.
Sources from the sector consulted by Idealista said that the business was up for sale with a price take of between €140 and €145 million, but after several months and interest from different funds, no final buyer was found.
“Funds ruled it out because it was overpriced and had a prohibitive impact,” the sources told Idealista.
“According to the talk in the sector, another of the reasons it was withdrawn was the lack of offers,” they added.
Only for locals
Controversialproposal
toremedyexcessive tourism would see foreignersbarredfrom buyingpropertyin Mallorca
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 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.
FOREIGNERS’ FAVOURITES
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 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.
The group has also come up with the idea of a maximum number of visitors 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.
Banking on a bargain
A SPANISH bank has launched budget rental properties in Andalucia, with prices starting at just €300 a month to relieve the area’s rental crisis.
InmoCaixa is advertising affordable properties in an attempt to relieve the stress on the market.
Part of Caixa Bank, there are over 20,000 properties, including houses, flats and even new builds.
In Sevilla, you could rent a flat for as little as €307, with 102 properties advertised at this price.
Built in 2010, the apartments have between one and two bedrooms, heating, double glazed windows and a fully-equipped kitchen.
Meanwhile in Malaga, InmoCaixa are offering 98 flats for €402 a month.
Onthe cheap
THE cheapest areas to buy a property in Andalucia in 2024 have been revealed. According to data from idealista, the cheapest town is Velez Blanco, in Almeria, where the average property sells for €397/m2 - around €1,900 below the regional average.
It is the fourth cheapest town in Spain for a home, behind only Almaden in Ciudad Real (€344/m2), Alcaudete de la Jara in Toledo (€357/m2) and Malagon, also in Ciudad Real (€395/m2).
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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
Architects: VZ Arquitectos
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.
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 -
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
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
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…
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
Hipster
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, 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 Mar -
NOT SO SWIFT
10 years on, Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium renovation finally complete
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 multi faceted 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 ‘green house’ 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 origi nal 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.
The renovation also increased seating capacity by 3,000 to 85,000, added VIP and hospitality lounges.
RETRO: Los Felices is inspired by 60s California
hangout
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shall speakers, bright colours and numerous products.
Meanwhile, a kiosk offers, naturally, 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.
OP QUICK CROSSWORD
SPACE AGE: Designs that could have come straight from a 70s ‘space opera’
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.
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.
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Just an hour away from the Costa del Sol is the Rio Genal, a popular bathing spot for locals of Algatocin and Jubrique.
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.
By Yzabelle Bostyn
The water is also quite deep here, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. However, the first of many pools, it can often get crowded and doesn’t have the same natural charm that those who wade further upstream can enjoy.
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.
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 (wherever you are in Andalucia) here is a selection of other spots in the region…
CUEVA DEL GATO, BENAOAN
Formed by a cavern that gives way into the Guduares river, this natural pool has icy cold water that is derived from the cave itself, which visitors can explore while wading in the water. After leaving the mouth of the cave, the water creates a natural pool that is shaded by the nearby forest and mountains.
FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
CAÑON DE LAS BUITRERAS, CORTES DE LA FRONTERA, MALAGA
An official natural monument since 2003, this canyon makes for an adventurous swimming spot due to the Guadiaro river that runs through it, with its winding watercourse and vertical stone banks more than 100 meters in height. Visitors here can easily transition from swimming, to hiking and to canoeing. Due to its occasional fast-moving water, visitors are advised to wear a full wetsuit, to really enjoy the water.
MAJACEITE RIVER TRAIL, BENAMAHOMA TO EL BOSQUE
The upper part of the Majaceite River between El Bosque and Benamahoma is found in the heart of the Grazalema Natural Park, in Cadiz, and offers one of the most magical midsummer walks. Mostly in the shade, the walk follows the course of the river, criss-crossing it with bridges. But best of all - with a dozen fantastic places to jump in for a swim. Even better, there are superb restaurants for a cool, shady lunch at either end, in particular in Benamahoma.
POZA DE LOS PATOS, NERJA
This natural pool is formed by the Chillar River, which has created small canyons that can be so narrow that visitors can touch both walls at once. In order to access it, visitors must embark on a short hike that runs along the river and leads to the wider portion meant for swimming. Since there is only one main area for swimming, it is best to go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.
RIO GUADALMINA, BENAHAVIS
While the Guadalmina River is 28 km long, this wider portion of the river offers a great place to swim or go on an exciting 30-minute river tour. The river can be easily accessed from the A-7175, where visitors can park in the lower area of Benahavis and take a short walk down to reach the starting point. Keep in mind that it has been growing in popularity due to visitors' ability to safely jump from the small rocks surrounding the water. Unlike other natural swimming ponds, this river is regulated for swimming use and is only open between 10am and 8pm.
LA CULTURA
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SPANI SH CONQUEST
New excavations shed light on the Spaniard who helped Rome finally conquer Spain
THE Roman conquest of Spain was sealed by a man whose tomb has only just been uncovered in the petrified ruins of Pompeii.
Back in the 20’s BC, an ascendant Rome was battling in northern Spain to put down the last resistance to its dominium in Iberia.
To the surprise of many, the Roman troops were led by an unheralded Spaniard who had been born to a local tribe but had taken up arms for the Empire.
Numerius Agrestinus commanded the legions in Cantabria, where they faced other tribes known for their warrior culture and stubborn refusal to bow down to the might of Rome.
The Cantabrian Wars (29-19 BC) –the final Roman campaigns to subjugate the remaining and fiercely independent Cantabri and Astures – were helped immensely by loyal tribes who knew the land and the enemy well. Richly rewarded for successfully subduing the last holdouts to Roman rule, Numerius Agrestinus was granted Roman citizenship, Pompeii’s
By Walter Finch
paws carved into each end – signalling the importance of its owner. Thanks to his endeavours, the complete Roman Hispania was finally born; a flourishing era that lasted nearly five centuries, until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 495 AD.
But it took two centuries of conquest to get there.
Before the Romans could expand the boundaries of their empire into Iberia, they had to contend with the all-powerful Carthaginian Empire.
highest magistracy office and a monument in the doomed city upon his death. His newly unearthed tomb features a bench with large lion’s
They made their first landings at modern-day Empuries on the Girona coast in 218 BC and set their sights on conquering first Catalunya and Murcia –and then all of Andalucia.
The ruins of the old Roman settlement of Emporiae are still clearly visible, with visitors able to trace the town forum, basilica, amphitheatre, necropolis and much more.
The first great Roman victory came in the Battle of Cissa that same year (218 BC), when Tarragona was captured during the Second Punic War.
Led by Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio, the battle dealt a crippling blow to the Carthaginians in Spain, and severely disrupted supply lines to Hannibal and his famous elephant march across the Alps.
Tarraco, as it was known in ancient times, went on to serve as a key administrative and military hub in the newly Roman region of Hispania.
The Romans broke the back of the Carthaginians in Spain with the conquest of Carthago Nova in 209 BC. Nowadays Cartagena, the Romans established it as a critical naval base and commercial hub in the Roman Empire.
The modern city features well-preserved Roman ruins, including a famous theatre, a forum, and various public buildings. Today the Murcian city is the home of the Spanish navy. Not content to literally rest on their laurels – as victorious military commanders were wont to do after being garlanded with laurel wreaths – the Romans steadily moved west across Iberia.
They met the Carthaginians once again for a final showdown in the Battle of Ilipa in 206 BC, close to modern-day Alcala del Rio near Sevilla. A decisive Roman victory, led by Scipio Africanus, paved the way for an era of Roman domination in Andalucia that would last for centuries.
Other important victories in Andalucia included the siege of the city of Gadir – what is now modern day Cadiz – in 206 BC and the Battle of Baecula near present-day Bailen, Jaen, in 208 BC.
In barely 20 years the Romans conquered a huge swathe of Iberia, going on to establish Hispania Ulterior in 197 BC, which covered much of southern and western Spain and Portugal.
But it would be nearly another two
ART: The Capture of Carthage by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo
HISTORIC: The Romans beat Carthage at the Battle of Ilipa
REMAINS: In the heart of Tarragona
SPECTACULAR: Tarragona Amphitheatre
ROMAN: Alcala del Rio in Sevilla was established 2,000 years ago (inset) and how it is today
REMAINS: Roman theatre in Cartagena
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?
One of CGA’s recent student successes was Jade, a full-time student accepted to 7 top US universities including Princ University and Colum University. Starting ear with CGA, Jade dedicat herself to a rigorous cur ulum, encompassing a broad spectrum of A Level subjects including Math, Economics, English Literature, Physics, Psychology, and Chemistry.
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
How online high schools can give your child an edge
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.”
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 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
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.
CITRUS 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
THONG GATE
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.
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.
