The
OLIVE PRESS
VALENCIA / COSTA AZAHAR www.theolivepress.es FREE Vol. 1 Issue 19
Looking for Cinderella POLICE have issued an appeal for a ‘Cinderella’ thief who left his trainer at the scene of a crime. The wanted man ran away from officers after he was caught drinking alcohol on the streets in Chipiona, Cadiz. He was in such a rush he forgot one of his shoes, as well as a bottle of rum and a bag of ice. Police tweeted a photo of the trainer, hoping someone might recognise it. They joked that they were on the hunt for the ‘little princess’. “We don’t know if the shoe jumped off due to the acceleration of his departure or it was a logistics failure (it was not properly on) but the reality is that that shoe is being well cared for.” They also joked that a man who wears ‘€140 trainers drinks cheap rum from an €8 bottle’. However they added: “Running is for cowards and bad bullfighters and is uncomfortable with a single shoe. “If you run it is because you know you have done something wrong”.
LOST: Cinderella’s shoe
! s r e n n i W
voice in Spain August 12th - August 25th 2021
See page 14
Cake maker vanishes leaving ‘dozens’ of wedding clients out of pocket
A POPULAR cake maker has vanished after being accused of taking deposits from ‘dozens’ of wedding clients in Spain. The self-professed ‘Queen of amazing cakes’ Omaya Koreitem disappeared after deleting her social media accounts and failing to fulfil orders. One client of her company Cake Couture Marbella claims to have paid €350 for a cake for his big day this summer. Ryan Archie has taken to social media for advice after he heard nothing from Koreitem as the big day approached. “This is leaving us bike rentAL • e-scooters without a cake on BIKE TOURS • repairS our wedding day,” said the British groom. “I paid a 50% deposit, which was still a
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WE have winners of our competition to see the fabulous Paul Maxwell in The Elton John Experience, playing alongside the Malaga Symphony Orchestra. John Cahill and Kirsten Prydz each win a pair of tickets to the show at the Marbella Arena on August 21. They both answered correctly that Elton John has had 69 UK Top 40 hits. You can get tickets for the show at www.corteingles.es or call 0034 633647260 for more information.
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good chunk of money. It was a big cake. “Now we can’t get in contact with them and have had no reply on Facebook, Instagram or by email. “She (Koreitem) is continuing to take deposits and make false promises to couples. This is fraud and is ruining people’s special day.” A Facebook page now set up dedicated to those affected suggests that dozens ‘at least’ have been left out of pocket. Another person affected by the scandal, who asked to remain anonymous, first contacted Koreitem on Facebook when she paid a deposit for a client’s cake but then couldn’t get hold of Koreitem. “No one seems to know what happened,” she said. Another Marbella wedding planner, who wished to remain unnamed, told the Olive Press she and her clients had been left ‘devastated’ by the scam. The 45-year-old wedding organiser first started working with Koreitem
in 2012 after she came highly recommended. The British wedding planner only became suspicious when she received an automated message this year that said Koreitem had changed her number. Two of her clients are waiting on cakes, with a total loss of €725 in deposits. She said: ‘I asked her where she had moved to and she said Saint Martins and that I was welcome to visit anytime. I mentioned Monica was looking for her and she acted surprised but then I said that I also had cakes booked with her and she asked me to send the details as she didn’t recall. ‘Since then she has unfriended me on Facebook, taken down her page on Instagram and is not answering any messages on WhatsApp or email.’
Deception “My clients are devastated as am I. We really don’t need this kind of deception and thieving at any point but even less so when everyone has had such a tough time. “It makes us look bad on the coast.” While a Twitter page and website still exist for Cake Couture, which was set up over two decades ago, the Instagram and Facebook pages for the business have been taken down. Another wedding planner, who had commissioned the company to make several cakes, told the Olive Press that she has apparently changed her phone number to a new one in Guadeloupe in the Caribbean. “It is such a shame as Koreitem was the go-to cake designer for very large
CRUMBS: Koreitem vanished with the cash extravagant cakes,” she said. “I am aware of five wedding companies who have clients who booked cakes with her. “I just don’t understand why she was taking deposits and final payments but hadn’t arranged for anyone to take over the cakes which would have been the right thing to do. “I know many businesses are suffering particularly in the events sector but there are ways of not letting clients down. She should be letting clients know rather than ignoring calls and messages for weeks.” The Olive Press was unable to get a comment from Cake Couture despite various attempts over the past week.
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CRIME
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NEWS IN BRIEF Fast and furious A MENTALLY ill patient escaped from the Psychiatry department at Valencia General Hospital and attempted to run over two Guardia Civil officers who recaptured him.
Vulture rescue A LARGE vulture was rescued when it became trapped and disorientated in a street in Vinaros. The bird was checked over then released into the wild.
Tits up A YOUNG woman has launched an online campaign accusing the Valencian transport service of discrimination after she was barred from a bus due to ‘showing too much chest.’
No bull DESPITE opposition growing against bull-related events, the councils of several Castellon towns including Torreblanca, Onda, Benassal, Morella and l’Alcora have scheduled bull-running this month.
Sick fire threat A WOMAN in Castellon has been sentenced to five years jail for pouring petrol on a mother and threatening to set her alight. The victim was walking through Vall d’Uixo with her 10-month-old daughter when the attacker suddenly doused the mother with petrol and threatened to burn her alive if she didn’t hand over her handbag. The mother complied and the attacker ran off. Moments later, the victim chased after the mugger and demanded that she return the stolen handbag. The other woman then whipped out a lighter and threatened the mother again. Several onlookers stepped in to restrain the attacker and prevent her from carrying out her threat. The police were called and the mugger was arrested and charged with attempted homicide and violent robbery. As well as jail she will have to pay €5,000 compensation. A 23-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested in Silla for allegedly mistreating his 60-year-old mother over a period of two years. The victim finally reported her son to the Guardia
August 12th - August 25th 2021
Right dummy Ventriloquist may have hidden €900 million of illegal assets A SPANISH ventriloquist turned impresario who has rubbed shoulders with A-list stars including Joan Collins and Jane Seymour may have concealed up to €900 million ahead of a move to the UK or USA. Jose Luis Moreno, 74, has been arrested in Madrid as a part of a police probe into an international embezzlement and money laundering ring.
Hot water
He has previously been in hot water when Valencia City Council denounced him and demanded €360,000 after the ‘irregular management’ by his companies of a show staged in the city. Exact details of the latest investigation have been placed under a secrecy order with around 50 arrests being made. Moreno and his business partners have been accused of fraud amounting to over €43 million
Abusive son Civil this week, claiming he grabbed her by the neck and threatened to strangle her because she wouldn’t let him use
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A-LIST: Moreno, Collins, Seymour and Richards 5,000 page confidential docuBy Alex Trelinski ment detailing Operation Titella which led to his arrest. Cuatro’s through a chain of companies. programme, Todo es Verdad Moreno found fame in Spain (Everything is True) revealed and South America in the eight- that Moreno may have hidden ies as a ventriloquist and come- as much as €900 million. Some dian making many television €1.3 million of alleged Moreno appearances. Since then he has assets were seized when police become an impresario, most re- stopped a French-plated rental cently in the news for his part in car in Barcelona and found the the production of the Glow and cash in the boot. Darkness TV series, starring Joan Collins, Denise Richards Hospital and Jane Seymour. TV channel, Cuatro, was sent a Moreno has had a busy time away from show business. In 2007, an East European gang her mobile phone. attacked his Madrid area villa, According to the terrified and besides robbing him, he victim, her son warned her needed hospital treatment for during the latest attack serious injuries. that if he killed her nothing Seven years later, Moreno’s rewould happen to him becording studios in four Madrid cause ‘I’m mad’. industrial estate warehouses were burnt down.
LYNCH MOB A GROUP of teenagers turned into a lynch mob to pursue the alleged attacker after their friend told them she was sexually assaulted while on a night out in Torrent. Police were called to intervene after the group of around 20 teenagers chased down another teen and three of his companions in a residential complex. The targeted teen was alleged to have forced a 16-year-old girl to perform a sex act.
Brawl
A security guard at the residential complex called the Local Police reporting what he thought was a brawl between two groups of teenagers. On hearing the girl’s complaint, officers arrested the young man on suspicion of sexual assault and handed him over to the Guardia Civil who will investigate the case. The arrival of the police is thought to have prevented the suspect from being ‘lynched’ by the group.
NEWS
www.theolivepress.es CATALAN singer, Sergio Dalma has got into hot water after he urged his audience to ignore social distancing guidelines. The musician was forced to suspend his gig by organisers after he stopped his set three times in order to instruct fans to break the rules and get out of their seats during his concert in Murcia. Te Amo star Sergio performed as part of the Noches del Malecon series but things turned sour when he encouraged audience members to ignore the restrictions and stand up from
STAR: Dame Joan
Still got it DAME Joan Collins stole the show when she attended a glitzy charity ball in Spain. The 88-year-old and hubby Percy Gibson, 56, were at the Remus Charity Night, which attracts socialites from all over Europe to Mallorca. The Dynasty actor proved to be the star attraction, despite the competing attractions of burlesque dancer Dita Von Teese and American glamour model and actor Carmen Electra.
Proper event
Speaking on social media, Dame Joan declared that she and Percy had pulled out all the stops for the night, as it was the ‘first proper event’ they had been to in a year and a half due to the pandemic. German Real Estate agent Marcel Remus sells luxury villas on the island, with some fetching prices as high as €24 million. He is well known for the charity extravaganza he puts on each year, with this year’s event raising €64,000 for victims of the recent floods in Europe.
August 12th - August 25th 2021
SILLY SINGER their seats during the show. The 56-year-old singer tried to resist safety measures, telling the audience: “We are going to interrupt the concert every time they tell someone to sit down.” As part of the current COVID-19 regulations in Spain all concertgoers must remain seated at a safe distance and wear a mask at all times. Sergio later apologised for his actions.
What a tearjerker
SORRY: Sergio Dalma
COOKING UP A TREAT
Actor Richard E Grant visits expat couple for BBC show
AN EXPAT couple are front and centre of a new BBC TV show uncovering the history of writers in Spain. David and Emma Illsley, who run Las Chimeneas in the little-known village of Mairena in the hills of Andalucia, stole the show when their gorgeous home made an appearance on the third episode of the series Write Around the World.
ARGENTINIAN football legend Lionel Messi broke down in tears as he said goodbye to the club which has been his home for his entire career. He was speaking at a press conference to confirm his departure, and was reduced to tears when members of the press gave him a standing ovation. The 34-year-old has been with FC Barcelona since childhood and has scored an astounding 672 goals in 778 senior appearances since 2003. The six times Ballon d’Or winner had by all accounts wanted to leave the club last year, but was finally ‘persuaded’ to stay when club bosses refused to let him go.
Free
SPECIAL GUEST: David and Emma met Grant
Gushed
Actor Richard E Grant, who presents the BBC show, gushed about the couple’s cookbook during his visit to the Alpujarras. David and Emma moved to the remote town between the Sierra Nevada and the Medi-
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By Kirsty McKenzie
terranean Sea after spending three years teaching English in the Canary Islands with the British Council. But just like friend and author
AT EVERY Olympic Games over the last three decades race walker Jesus Angel Garcia Bragado has represented Spain, hip-wiggling over 50kms while never breaking into a run. But on Friday at the grand old age of 51 years old, after finishing 35 th in the 50km race walk in Sapporo, he admitted it would be his last. “You have to know when it is time to retire,” he said after the race adding that he was hugely grateful to the Spanish
Chris Stewart, the couple were seduced by life in southern Spain and now have two sons, a booming holiday business and a popular Spanish cookbook under their belts. The pair described the family’s television debut as a ‘feel-
THE FINAL LEG Federation for support during his long career. Although the Madrid born athlete has never brought home an Olympic medal despite competing in every Games since Barcelona ’92, he has still made history by become the first track and field athlete to compete in eight in a career that spans 30 years.
good shot-in-the-arm’ that came ‘hurtling out the blue’. They said: “To our complete consternation, we were already able to see episode three, in which we feature for a full ten minutes, with the actor Richard E. Grant waxing lyrical about our book Las Chimeneas: Recipes and Stories from an Alpujarran village. “Even our boys were impressed: after all, this is a man who has shaken the hand of Luke Skywalker! “It’s a quirky and amusing bit of telly, and worth watching if only to see the gentle, rather mystified smiles of our cooks Conchi and Sole as they prepare an al fresco meal for a Hollywood actor and his hungry, drooling crew.”
But having been a free agent since July 1, he would appear to have had a change of heart, and was willing to accept a 50% pay cut in exchange for a new contract. But the parlous state of Barcelona’s finances has meant they can’t keep him without falling foul of the La Liga’s financial fair play rules. Messi has now joined Paris St Germain, where he will be reunited with Brazilian superstar and former Barcelona teammate Neymar.
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OPENING COURSE 2021-2022 BRITISH EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM FROM 3 TO 18 YEARS OLD
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WRIGGLING OUT OF IT
Expat despairs at insurance company demanding receipts for 100 year old jewellery AN Expat has slammed his insurance company after it demanded receipts for stolen jewellery that had been in the family for 100 years. Brian Snell, 83, woke up one February morning to find his Costa Blanca villa had been burgled and his late wife’s jewellery had been stolen along with cash. The thieves had wrenched away the security grills on the front street and brazenly ransacked the house while Snell slept.
Dismissed
Wife Barbara, who died five years ago, had accumulated a wonderful collection of rings, necklaces and bracelets, some of which had been her grandmother’s. “You can imagine how distressed I was when I woke
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HAPPY: Brian (right) and Barbara (seated middle) EXCLUSIVE By Simon Wade
up to find out what had been stolen and how it was stolen,” explained the for-
SCORCHIO! THE Valencia region is braced for what is forecast to be the first real heatwave of the summer. Meteorologists predict that today (Thursday) through to Sunday will register as the first true ola de calor to hit the Mediterranean region this year. Inland thermometers are expected to surge above 45ºC and nocturnal temperatures throughout the region will remain above 25ºC for at least four consecutive nights. Areas such as Xativa (La Costera) and the south of Alicante province will bear the brunt of it, with the vast majority of inland areas including the Vinalopo and Utiel-Requena zones easily climbing above 40ºC. A sea breeze will cool coastal areas, however, meteorologists warn that the lasting humidity on the coast and intense dry heat inland will lead to a worsening of atmospheric conditions and air quality. Most predictions suggest that temperatures next week will be closer to normal for the time of year – still very hot, but not as stifling.
mer London Railway Foreman. Brian said: “The Guardia were wonderful and so supportive, taking plenty of notes and pictures of everything – they even helped collate the information I needed for the insurance company.” However, his claim was soon to become a nightmare. Despite Snell providing pictures of every piece of missing jewellery, the Santander insurance assessors are still demanding receipts for the €5,000 claim, even though some items are over 100 years old. The widower explained: “They’ve had all the information they’ve asked for from me and from the Guardia. Now, seven months on, they’re asking for things I just can’t provide.” In despair, octogenarian Snell said, “It’s like I’m going through the robbery all over again.
Value
“Barbara’s jewellery was so sentimental to both of us, you can’t put a cash value on it – I’d say it was priceless.” So far, Santander has refused to comment to the Olive Press.
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A 64-year-old man died and another was critically injured in a house fire in the La Plana area of Castellon city. They are the latest victims in a terrible year for domestic fires in the region. It brings the total number of people who have died in house fires in Castellon province to three since the start of 2021. The number of blazes sparked by electrical faults and other domestic accidents has shot up by 25% to a total of 140 since January, up from 107 in the first eight months of last year. Seven of these fires have caused personal injuries mainly due to smoke inhalation, with three people
FIRE DEATHS
losing their lives. The worst time of year for house fires is usually the winter, when faulty gas heaters and sparks from open fires
are the main culprits. Police are currently investigating the causes of the latest house fire in La Plana.
NEWS
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Second shot PEOPLE in the Valencian Community who missed a COVID-19 vaccine appointment will get a second chance to book a date from today (August 12). SMS text notifications will include a link to pick any day between August 23 and September 19. The system has brought in extra flexibility due to work or holiday commitments. Health Minister, Ana Barcelo, said: “This new opportunity should not be ignored because the vaccine works against COVID-19.” “It is the best way we have to cut the chains of transmission of the virus and save lives”. Barcelo stressed that just because somebody without a vaccine felt well, they could still be carrying and passing on the coronavirus. CURFEWS are set to run into September in the Valencian Community. The regional government yesterday (August 11) asked the Supreme Court to continue night restrictions in 68 of the current 77 curfew areas.
August 12th August 25th 2021
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Fire season
Three forest blazes force evacuation of 160 people in first major challenge for firefighters this year THREE forest fires broke out simultaneously in Valencia province at the weekend, in what was the first major challenge for firefighters in the region this summer. A blaze forced the evacuation of 160 residents from their homes in La Safor, while a second wildfire broke out in nearby Palma de Gandia and a third in Chiva (inland Valencia province) all on Saturday evening.
Fueled
Fueled by high temperatures and strong westerly winds, the flames ravaged 180 hectares of forest between the towns of Rafelguaraf and Barxeta.. Two urbanisations were evacuated as a precaution, although the rapid intervention of 75 ground firefighters and five aerial teams managed to bring the fire
Extension expected
The extension would run until September 6, and there is little doubt that judges will approve
SMOKE: The fire starts to spread near La Safor Rafelguaraf incident due to By Glenn Wickman a spate of cases reported in the same area over the past under control before it could few years. damage property. According to experts, the Emergency services worked three worst conditions for ceaselessly for 24-hours to wildfires occured last weekbring the three blazes under end. control. Authorities believe all three Gusts fires were sparked by natural causes, although the Guar- Known as the ‘30 rule’, there dia Civil’s environmental was a temperature of above arm Seprona has launched 30ºC, gusts of wind of over an investigation into the 30 kilometres per hour, and air humidity levels were below 30%. the request. Weather predictions for this Valencian president, Ximo week continue in the same Puig, and his colleagues will vein, with a new heatwave meet this Saturday to pour set to steadily push up therover the latest COVID-19 inmometers throughout the fection rates before announcregion and trigger another ing what other restrictions will red alert for extreme risk of remain in force. forest fires this weekend.
Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful environment
Paseo Maritimo de la Patacona n 14, 46120, Alboraya, Valencia I T. 96 372 40 95 I 618 356 043 I info@casapatacona.com
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A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in Spain with an estimated readership, including the websites, of more than two million people a month.
OPINION
INTERESTING A Dickens of a challenge
BEST OF LUCK! TIMES have been hard for all of us during the coronavirus pandemic. There is no one who has not been affected by the health regulations, lockdowns, stress and sheer inconvenience of the restrictions. Many of us expats in Spain have been unable to visit family and friends in the UK and elsewhere in Europe for fear of becoming stranded should travel restrictions change suddenly. Indeed, the Olive Press itself has suffered earlier in the pandemic with a reporter being stuck in England for months for just that reason. But looking beyond the personal pain we have all felt, the Olive Press is extremely conscious of the suffering felt by expat businesses throughout 2020 and the first part of 2021 – particularly those in the hospitality industry. While the ERTE furlough scheme at least helped workers with a proportion of their wages guaranteed, precious little aid has been given to the owners of businesses. Yes, low-cost loans have been ‘guaranteed’ by the government – but even then we have learned of instances where banks used these to pay off old loans rather than supply new capital to tide companies over. It has been a hard slog – but as can be seen on these pages – expat businessmen and women are a resilient lot. Belts have been tightened, businesses refocused and survival plans put into action. And the more forward thinking entrepreneur’s now find themselves in position to not just catch up on lost ground but to even forge ahead. They have the vision – and energy – to rebuild their businesses so that they are better than ever before. We wish them luck, and hope that our readers will support them in the coming months and years. PUBLISHER / EDITOR
Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es
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INTERVIEW: Sala boss Ian Radford talks to Dilip Kuner
I STRONG: Tracey Faulkner
Lockdown shocker, but now stronger Rumours Formentera was only open for three weeks when COVID struck, writes Simon Wade
TRACEY Faulkner loved her local so much she bought it and transformed it into Rumours Formentera in 2020. After working in her native Belfast, Magaluf and in New York hospitality, the 34-year-old had even built a portfolio of how her perfect bar would look. “We’d only been open for three weeks following refurbishment, when lockdown forced us to close,” she lamented. “On that first night, the front window was smashed in and we got broken into.” It was an awful start, but friends and customers rallied round to help fix the damage, after the insurance company’s attempt wasn’t up to scratch. “Steve Howells Transport gave us some strong wood, and my boyfriend got a group together to do a secure job at fixing it,” she said. “Those kind actions gave a hint of what was to come from the pandemic,” continued Tracey,
Time
“Getting through December was essential, so we delivered a threecourse Christmas menu for €14.95, which was very popular.” While little money was made, keeping staff in a job and reminding punters that their local was still trading, proved a worthwhile investment. “I feel very lucky to have come through this pandemic, but that’s down to hard work and long hours,” adds Tracey. “Even if customers didn’t order from us, we kept in touch with Facebook videos showing people how to make exotic cocktails.” A new pizza oven meant Rumours could be even more diverse with their menu, and free deliveries meant essential contact with customers was maintained. Tracy concluded: “It’s been a long wait, but the legacy of lockdown is a better business and a stronger relationship with the community.”
T was the best of times, it was the worst of times…it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair. Charles Dickens may have written those words about the French revolution, but they could just as well have been penned for the British boss of the Sala Group of restaurants, Ian Radford, whose situation in Spain has been distinctly challenging over the past few years. Apart from the spectre of Brexit, which has still not settled down, he has had nearly two years of COVID-19 problems to deal with. Speaking to the Olive Press the 52-year-old father of three explained: “Everything was great and 2019 was our best year ever. Things went to another level.” It came after a decade of hard work, which saw him open his seminal La Sala restaurant in 2010 and the nearby La Sala by the Sea in 2008, which was designed and is now run by his wife Claire with the help of son Piers, 19, and eldest daughter Sophie, 27. Daughter Chea at 11 is the baby of the family.
Superstar
Along with the Oak Garden Grill (now rebranded as The Social by Sala) and the Havana bar in Estepona (run by Sophie) they have attracted a big celebrity clientele, including Irish superstar Ronan Keating, Premier League footballers including Harry Kane, Ashley Cole and David Bentley - who liked the restaurant so much he became a shareholder. Then there is Alan Sugar, Jamie Oliver and Prince Albert of Monaco, not to mention
The team behind Triple Brew in Rojales picked up some valuable tips during the lockdown SEASONED restaurateurs Michael and Faith Lindemann actually opened their restaurant and nano-brewery in the middle of the pandemic, November 2020, just as takeaways were being introduced as the only option available. “We took it week by week and news-release by news-release,” explains Michael, who has previously held front-of-house and restaurant management positions in New Zealand.
SURVIVORS: Michael and Faith Lindemann
HAPPY FAMILY: Ian with Claire and Chea
just about the entire cast of TOWIE who have become regulars. This has led to an upward spiral of success - a trend that continued into 2020 with takings up 20% year on year in January and February. But the worst of times were about to strike as COVID-19 suddenly came on the scene. The lockdown from March last year instantly brought the guillotine down on business for three months, with no opening allowed. And even when things opened again the levels were far lower than ever before. “Our turnover in 2020 crashed 70% over 2019. The challenge was massive,” admits Ian, a former professional squash player and keen golfer. “It didn’t help that we had very little help from the government. While the ERTE furlough scheme paid staff 70% of their normal salary,
WE LEARNT A LOT “With the planned wine-tastings and beer brewing demonstrations on hold, we needed to find a different way of bringing customers in. “We worked on making our takeaway menu something special, offering beers and wine samples in smaller bottles and QR Codes meant we could still showcase different options safely.” Knowing how busy the area can get, the summer influx of tourists was really missed. But they discovered that takeaways are still a growing sector and they have vowed to continue with the QR codes as they save printing costs. Faith, who has 20 year’s experience as a headchef in native New Zealand, the UK and in Spain, admitted: “Customers’ loyalty and staff dedication really shone through during the pandemic - that’s a great legacy.” “That support ensured we were still here once the restrictions were lifted.”
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TIMES
August 12th - August 25th 2021
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But the high spending power of this summer’s visitors to the Costa del Sol and low-cost loans are helping key expat businesses like the Sala Group survive the pandemic
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BUSY: La Sala has had a good August while (below) Ronan Keating and wife Storm with Ian (right) and Claire (left)
what a lot of people don’t realise is that we still had to pay their social security contributions. “Guess how much that worked out as? Almost exactly 70% of their salaries. And we had 160 staff! “In effect it was costing the government nothing – the businesses had to pay it… and apart from some small payments we got very little help from the government.” Speaking on the terrace of his flagship restaurant La Sala, he was keen to recognise the tough times his loyal staff have also suffered. “They have had to make do with 70% of their salaries plus they have no tips, which really hurts them,” he points out. Despite the huge drop in turnover the businessman realised that he still needed to invest in the business to put himself in a position to take advantage of the recovery. He has been targeting local trade, improving his terrace to avoid indoor seating restrictions and changed the emphasis of the Oak Garden Grill, relaunching it as The Social by Sala to make it more focused on being a sports bar rather than a restaurant. And the investment seems to be paying off. “We have just had a very encouraging July – business was actually up on July 2019. On
W
HEN the pandemic storm broke, Stephen Grange and Alex Hemingway bosses of the Oasis in Benijofar weren’t too worried. “When the pandemic hit, we just didn’t know what to expect,” admitted 61-year-old Stephen, a former advertising executive. “We thought it was going to be an enforced two week closure at first, so we took the chance to enjoy a well-earned holiday.” “As we planned for the reopening, we designed
Worth paying for
E at the Olive Press are always keen to talk to our readers to get constructive comments and feedback. After all, without readers – whether for our traditional newspapers or our website and online platforms – there is really very little point to our job. One question we get is 'what do I get for my money – what am I paying for?' Well, what you get is journalism, you are paying for people who excel at storytelling to do the work they love and the job they were trained to do. Being behind a paywall frees us from the tyranny of 'clickbait journalism'. With the knowledge that money is coming in, we do not have to chain our reporters to their desks to chase ever more page views. This means that our national media schooled journalists, including News Editor Dilip Kuner (top) Digital Editor Fiona Govan (right) and Costa Blanca reporter Alex Trelinski (below) who worked at the Sunday Mirror, Telegraph and BBC respectively, can do what they were trained for. Thanks to those people who have signed up for €5.99 a month – or €50 a year – we can afford to free our journalists to do what they do best – get out and about, meet people and report back to you, our readers. So far the takeup of subscriptions has been way beyond our initial expectations – so thank you to everyone who has recognised that quality journalism is worth paying for!
The top five most read stories on www.theolivepress.es in the past two weeks are: UK poised to relax travel rules for those 1-doubled jabbed abroad and drop quarantine from amber list countries added in Spain? Yes you can tra2- Double vel to England without quarantine from August 2
top of that we have become more efficient as we had to be if we were to survive. “It is not just us – everyone around here in Banus is very busy. I have noticed that the customers this year have very high spending power. They have the money and they seem happy to spend it.” Adding to the optimism is the way he was able to shore up his business financially. “We did manage to get some low-cost loans – that is something the government can be thanked
new menus and operations to get back to some sort of normality.” “Menus had to reflect what people wanted, and when they wanted it.” Alex, a 52-year-old former teacher and trained chef, added: “Lockdown also made us review a lot of what else needed to change, so there were benefits.” Like many restaurateurs Alex and Stephen had to think outside the box to survive the crisis. “We created a new brand called Oasis Heat&Eat; a
for – so we can pay our 2020 costs off over the next five years. “It means we didn’t have to approach private capital or our investors for money.” And the rest of the year is starting to shape up nicely. “We have managed to hang in there through the bad times. Now we are in position to take advantage of the opportunities that always arise after crises. “We are expecting to finish the year strongly and to have an incredible 2022 – COVID permitting!”
next for the UK’s am3- Analysis: IsberSpain plus travel list These are the rules for travel 4- Reminder: to the UK from amber list Spain Westley Capper implicated in disappea5-rance of Latvian model Agnese Klavina in Spain’s Marbella dies from Covid
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An Oasis in the storm range of wholesome meals to go, that just needed warming at home,” said Alex. Stephen continued: “We did everyday meals, curries, Sunday lunches, and even Valentines and Mothers Day options.” The concept is turning into a new string to their bow. “Certainly the Heat&Eat menu will return in the Autumn as people choose to eat in more and out less,” said Stephen.
“We pride ourselves on being here for everyone, whether it’s a coffee, a nice meal, or just a chat that will never change.” “Those chats have been dominated by three topics in the last five years; the EU referendum, Brexit and then COVID.” “All three have left such a legacy, they will never go away.” “But because of them, we are stronger and more focussed about the future.” NEW THINKING: Stephen Grange
LETTERS
8
Follow the law… Just unfair Dear Olive Press, house here in WE have been coming to our years and al20 over for te) can Cabo Roig (Ali in 180 day rule, ways complied with the 90 day er concerned. even though the Spanish were nev have been here In fact, several of our friends years with no 20 over for ly ous tinu virtually con problems. e subsequentHowever, since Brexit, most hav some of our But t. den resi lly lega me ly beco nish citizens friends do not want to become Spaa little longer stay to t wan but occasionally may od. than the 90 days in a 180 day peri nged (i.e. 90 cha not e hav s rule the xit Bre Since citizens and EU and UK to lies app day rule still country for EU ther ano in be all can only legally It does appear 90 days in a 180 day period). e EU citizens that there is discrimination as som ly apply to real not s doe it ng sayi are openly not enforcare ies orit auth them, as the Spanish British. This is ing the rule excepts towards the rimination. obviously unfair and blatant discthe rule but it I have no real problem with no discriminashould be enforced for all with tion. stay in the UK I understand that EU citizens canunfair. is this k thin and ths for six mon
Name and address supplied
Our article about Jeff Lewis (Licence to Ill) and his driving licence woes drew a critical response from some readers Giving us a bad name PERHAPS you should have asked Mr Lewis why he has been living and driving in Spain for 20 years on a UK licence as he states in your article. This is an act which is illegal in Spain as he is driving with an invalid licence and illegal in the UK as he must have renewed a UK licence when a non-resident. Perhaps if he followed the law in the first place, he wouldn’t be in this situation now. Seriously, he and other British immigrants who think they are above the law expect sympathy when all they do is give the law abiding residents a bad name. Lucie, Axarquia
Editor’s note: You raise a good point, but it only fair to point out that many UK citizens in the past had a ‘lifetime’ licence. As the old regulations only required UK citizens to exchange their licence for a Spanish one on expiry, Mr Lewis may not have needed to at the time, although he should have notified the UK authorities of a change of address.
Hard to sympathise MY wife and I have lived in Spain for 16 years and we know just how trying, slow-moving and frustrating Spanish bureaucracy can be. But we find it difficult to sympathise with the gentleman who now must take a driving test in order to retain his driving licence. Your article refers to him living in Spain for 20 years so his licence should legally have been exchanged for a Spanish equivalent many years ago.
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Lux-living GERARD Pique’s family investment company has secured a deal worth around €50 million to build a five-star hotel in a prime Malaga location.
Man down SPAIN’s top golfer, Jon Rahm, is out of the Olympics after he tested positive for Covid-19. He was vaccinated earlier this year with Johnson and Johnson.
No jackpot POLICE in Sevilla have arrested a 39-year-old man while he was robbing a gambling saloon wielding a knife.
Fire death AN elderly couple died in a raging fire in a two-storey house in San Lucar de Barrameda (Cadiz).
August 12th - August 25th 2021
ANDALUCIA’S vaccination programme has opened up to 18-year-olds. Since yesterday, all 18 and 19-year-olds - those born in 2002 and 2003 - resident in Andalucia, can apply for the COVID-19 jab. And from tomorrow (Thursday) those born
NEWS
July 28th - August 10th 2021
JABBING THE YOUNG
in 2004 and 2005 (17 and 16-year-olds) will also be eligible for their first COVID-19 vaccine dose. Appointments can be requested from authorised groups according to the vac-
cines available. They can be requested directly on the Andalucian Health Service (SAS) website via ClicSalud+, through the mobile app and the Salud Responde telephone number
Licence to ill
A BRITISH expat has been told he has to retake his driving test Brit must take driving test to get a in Spain after the authorities licence despite registering before claimed he never registered in the system prior to the cut-off Brexit.. And he’s not alone date. This is despite Jeff Lewis insist- his Gestoria, which said it was EXCLUSIVE ‘unable to help people’ change ing he called the special number By Katherine Brook 060 and registered his intent to their licences after December on change his licence on December 18. He has since been to his local “I the system’. 11. drive a 2L motorbike so it’s But after hearing nothing from DGT (Department General de not a simple exchange for me,” the Trafico department the Trafico) office multiple times Lewis told the Olive Press. Londoner sought advice from to try and prove he did indeed “To gain a licence for my motorregister, only to be told he ‘isn’t bike I have to do both a car driving test and a motorbike test. “And even then I still won’t be able to use it as the licence only allows you to drive a scooter. I STUDENT Pilot Oliver Daemen became the world’s youngest would have to wait another two person to travel to space at the age years before I could take a third the One Air pilot school in Malaga. of just 18, after training at test just to be able to drive as I The Dutchman joined billionaire Jeff have been in Spain for the last Bezos, and 82-year-old Wally Funk Bezos, his brother Mark 20 years.” ‘60s and now the oldest woman to(part of Mercury 23 in the go to space) on the Blue The 50-year-old believes he Origin mission. is one of ‘thousands’ of expats The New Shepard Rocket took off from struggling to obtain Spanish performed a suborbital flight, reaching a desert in Texas and a maximum altitude of driving licences due to ‘faults in around 107km (351,210ft). the system’. Daemen obtained his licence at the Malaga pilot school in British residents actually had March, and was invited on the monumental trip. until December 30 to register in order to carry out the simple
To infinity…
(955 54 50 60) and also at local health centres. Immunisation for young adults will be carried out with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, of which 308,880 doses of Pfizer and 91,600 from Moderna are expected to be delivered to the region this week.
GUTTED: Jeff Lewis driving licence exchange before the Brexit deadline. For those who had registered before this date and are still awaiting their appointment,
Two-way terrific DOUBLE jabbed expats travelling to the UK may soon be able to do so without having to quarantine. The news comes after reports in the UK media suggested Spain may escape being put on the dreaded amber-plus list. UK Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi confirmed the government was working hard on a scheme to offer quarantine free conditions to those who have been fully vaccinated abroad.
Reciprocal
“We want to offer the same reciprocity as the 33 countries that recognise our app and that will also happen they now have until October 31 soon,” he said without very to exchange their British licence mitting to a deadline. comfor a Spanish one. The exemption from quarantine for those arriving from amber list countries currentExchange ly only Lewis isn’t the only one who’s were applies to people who had difficulties proving he reg- and vaccinated in the UK have an NHS COVID ceristered on the system. tificate or digital pass. Chrissy Sims insisted her hus- A decision band registered his driving li- amber-plusto put Spain on the list, which would cence in November and still has mean travellers having to the call log - 24 minutes. self-isolate on arrival in the Similarly, Ben Alford was also UK, is expected to be made told there was ‘no record’ of on August 5. him, even though he had a It is believed more likely that printed confirmation PDF. France will come off the amber list than Spain going on it. Have you had similar issues? Contact newsdesk@ See Olive Press plea to theolivepress.es Sky News, Page 7
If he has lived in Spain for 20 years then his UK licence will have been renewed at least once, maybe illegally, as the life of a UK licence is 10 years. The backlog of most things ‘Brexit’ related, especially residencia and driving licence issues, were well reported via all the free We pick up and deliver websites for most of 2020 so, knowing press and government right long-winded your door. these procedures can be, why wait until three how to weeks before the cut-off date? Order online It is not fair to blame Spain and its lovely people when the fault Flat rate pricin does not liegwith them. Branded laundry bags Terry Pilcher, Oliva
Why waste time doing laundry
But Mr Lewis is not alone in being caught out…. mrk liin. com 690 849
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MY partner and I used a gestor in Fuengirola last June to obtain our residency. All went smoothly and we were very happy with his services. We then decided we would like him to exchange our licenses, this he agreed to and we sent him photos of our licences. This was last July. He then emailed us on many occasions saying he was having trouble getting an appointment in Malaga. We kept asking whether he had registered us with DGT and he said we should have some good news soon. Come January we hadn’t heard from him. We emailed him on many occasions asking what the position was. Finally in March he responded denying all knowledge of us although we have all his emails saying he was dealing with it. He was a well-respected gestor. I have a feeling we are not the only ones. J.Murrell, Fuengirola
Across 8 Not for money (3,4) 9 Elevate (5) 10 So soon? (7) 12 "Oleanna" playwright (5) 16 Parliamentary output (4) 19 Kind of entertainment channel (5,2) 20 Gentlemen's preferences, maybe (7) 21 Partial darkness (4) 24 Vesicles (5) 27 A girl's best marriage prospect (2,5) 29 Middle Eastern heights (5) 30 In name only (7)
T
Down
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he Olive Press has always invested heavily in ensuring that our copies are readily available for our growing legion of readers. We work hard to achieve our target of zero returns, ensuring we do not waste money or paper, which is an ever important factor for our environmentally-conscious readers. Since 2019 we have employed the services of Self Select Media, the UK market leader in charge of distributing hundreds of free papers and magazines, including the Evening Standard, Metro and Time Out! BOSS: The team that now has a company in southern Spain has analStewart ysed the region and strategically placed our stands within the main Leece supermarkets and major expat hangouts around the costas. This highly targeted process ensures that you can conveniently pick up your favourite read easily every two weeks. To keep in line with our green philosophy it also allows us to closely monitor our distribution and how it ebbs and flows depending on tourism and trends. We receive detailed photo reports of each of the drops, timed as they happen, and the number of copies left over. As Stewart Leece, the boss of Self Select explains: “We have 125 years of publishing and distribution experience and know Spain well having had a home here for three decades. “It is a pleasure to work with the Olive Press, one of the market leaders in Spain, to ensure that the company maintains and expands its reach around the country.” He continues: “The basis of our service is that every copy is taken by personal choice. We offer publishers and advertisers a controlled fully quantifiable media distribution route to market. Via a network of displays placed within high footfall retail outlets, and targeted miscellaneous distribution points across the North and South Costa Blanca region, and now Valencia.”
4
1 Spread out lazily (6) 2 Take a loan (6) 3 Prolonged unconsciousness (4) 4 £25 (4) 5 Metric mass unit (4) 6 Thin layer (4) 7 Euro fraction (4) 11 Crack a cryptogram (6) 13 Modify (5) 14 Roof overhang (5) 15 Vituperative person (6) 17 Forced to turn and face attackers (2,3) 18 Talent-spotter (5) 22 Imploring (6) 23 Small boiler? (6) 24 Minor but essential workers (4) 25 River sediment (4) 26 Opposite/hypotenuse (4) 27 "I had not thought death had undone so --- " (Dante Alighieri, "Divine Comedy") (4) 28 City of Seven Hills (4)
All solutions are on page 14
LA CULTURA
August 12th August 25th 2021
9
Cache in hand
Film on
THERE may only be seven registered inhabitants in the small village of Ascaso, Huesca, but that hasn’t stopped it from putting on a film festival every year. This August, the film festival returns from August 31 to September 4, and is set to be bigger than ever, as it celebrates its 10th birthday. A hugely important event for the village, the film festival has an economic impact of around €100,000, and is a way of putting the small towns of Upper Aragon on the map. The quaint village currently has no electricity in the houses but by the end of 2021 residents will finally be given power. During the festival, nine films will be shown: five feature films and four shorts.
Enormous hoard of Roman weapons discovered By Alex Oscar
Archaeologists have uncovered a large cache of Roman weapons and tools in the protohistoric settlement of Son Catlar, Menorca. A statement released by the University of Alicante revealed that the cache held Roman ‘weapons, knives, three arrowheads, spearheads, projectiles, surgical tools, a
IMPORTANT: Son Catlar site and some of the hoard bronze spatula probe, and so undergone its fifth season of on’. excavation following a year of Some of these items date back inactivity due to COVID, is a as far as 100 BC. fort surrounded by an 870m The dig site, which has just wall, the largest Talayotic settlement in the area. The settlement, pending approval to be a UNESCO site, was a Talayotic (ancient Menorcan) and then later Roman stronghold, during the In Algar, a pueblo blanco with 1,428 resPunic period (264-146 BC). idents just inland from the coast in Cadiz According to Heritage Daiprovince, Andalucia, pulling up a chair outly, Son Catlar was originally side your front door to shoot the breeze with founded between 2000-1200 your neighbours at the end of a long hot BC and was occupied until summer day is as vital to daily life as col476 AD, the end of the Roman lecting a barra in the morning and taking a occupation. siesta in the afternoon. The director of the excavaJose Carlos Sanchez Barea, the Popular Partion, Fernando Prado, even ty mayor of Algar saw an opportunity to enspeculates that the walls of courage the practice - known in Spanish as the settlement may have had charla al fresco - that he believes is essential a special religious connotato community spirit and general wellbeing. tion. He said: “We are going to begin the process Gateway to cities were associto have charla al fresco awarded World ated with the God Janus, the Heritage status,” he announced. god of transitions, time and beginnings.
A RIGHT CHARLA A SLEEPY town wants to elevate the long held tradition of having a neighbourly chat on one’s doorstep into a UNESCO recognised cultural activity that deserves preservation.
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10
BUSINESS
Bargain motoring
FOR the first time in five years, diesel is over 14 cents per litre cheaper than petrol. This represents a saving of over 10% for those filling up with diesel, and in general, fuel consumption is lower in diesel-powered vehicles than petrol. The average forecourt prices in Spain as reported by the EU are €1.264 per litre for diesel and €1.408 per litre of Euro-super 95 petrol. The difference of 14.4 cents is the widest reported since May 2016. This is an increase of almost three cents since the beginning of 2021. In general, diesel-powered cars emit fewer CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions than petrol-engined vehicles, but are worse for air quality due to their particulate emissions.
SPAIN’S economic growth after the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic has helped the eurozone out of recession. The EU had suffered a double-dip recession when two successive three-month periods showed a worrying drop in productivity. However, with both Spain and Italy showing growth of 3%, the entire region has been bolstered by an overall 2% in growth. Sources have revealed that up-to-date figures suggest growth occurred in all the EU countries involved in the research, albeit at different levels. But after the economic devastation caused by COVID-19 and var-
LOOKING UP ious lockdowns, the eurozone is still 3% down from its pre-pandemic level in the fourth quarter of 2019. Austria and Portugal also showed signs of strong recovery with Spain’s neighbour reporting an even healthier 4.9% expansion in its economy. Andrew Kenningham, chief Europe economist at Capital Economics was diplomatic with his view that Portugal’s recovery reflects, ‘a slightly less disastrous tourism season than Spain’s’. Germany and France have rebounded from the
August 12th - August 25th 2021
GOING CASHLESS
What you need to know about Spain’s ban on cash payments over €1,000 SPAIN has introduced a new rule to outlaw cash payments of over €1,000 for registered companies and professionals in part of a clampdown on tax fraud.
recession slower, but still showed increases, with 1.5% and 0.9% respectively. Figures released show that household spending made an important contribution in France, Germany and more so in Spain. Kenningham predicted that by the end of this year, growth levels will be close to pre-pandemic levels, but the gap will still be there. The USA has closed that gap, but unemployment is still high stateside. By contrast, the new eurozone figures showed the number of people gaining work increased by more than 400,000 in June alone.
The regulation applies to payments involving registered businesses and professionals as part of an on-going battle by Spain’s tax office to prevent undeclared economic activity and tax fraud. That means it only applies if ‘the transaction involves one member who is acting in a business or professional role’. So for example, you can only pay the mechanic who fixes your car up to €1,000 in cash but if you sold your car to a private buyer, there is no limit.
Rules
However, the rules are different if the person paying isn’t a tax resident in Spain. So for individuals who are visiting and are not working in a professional field in Spain, they can make cash payments of up to €10,000 to a Spanish company or for professional services.
By Fiona Govan
The measure is part of a wider EU move to crackdown on money laundering that could see a cap in cash payments set at €10,000.
TAXING MATTERS
W
ITH Brexit still fresh in everyone's minds, and a number of changes surrounding visas and the end of freedom of movement between the UK and the EU, the topic of residency, especially tax residency, can seem like a minefield. So how does tax residency work, and how will it affect Olive Press readers? Well, If you are a UK national and you live overseas with no intention to return to the UK to live, then you will only pay income tax on your UK income. However if you are an overseas national, then you will need to consider your residency status.
The Sufficient ties test, which looks at your connections to the UK, will help establish whether or not you can be considered as a tax resident. A sufficient tie test takes into account the following;
The first step is to see if you are an overseas resident and you can do this by answering three simple questions
● A UK resident who is a close family member - eg. a spouse or partner ● Available UK accommodation in which the individual has spent one night during the tax year ● Substantive UK work (Employed or Self-employed for at least 40 days, working for a minimum of 3 hours per day) ● Present in the UK for more than 90 days during either of the previous two tax years ● If the UK is the county that you spent the most time in during the tax year - this will be considered if you were resident in any of the previous 3 tax years.
1. Are you present in the UK, for less than 16 days in the tax year? 2. Are you present in the UK, for less than 46 days and have not been a resident in the previous three tax years? 3. Do you work overseas full-time and are not present in the UK for more than 90 Days in the Tax Year? If the answer is yes to any of these questions then you are automatically an overseas resident.
The new rules in Spain include penalties for those caught failing to comply. Fines imposed by the tax office increase incrementally according to the amount paid in cash over the permitted €1,000.
Apari helps explain how tax residency works for UK nationals living in Spain
● Your Sufficient Ties (otherwise known as connections to the UK). ● the amount of time spent in the UK ● what your previous residency status was in the UK A sufficient tie, or connection to the uk, can be determined by the following;
The automatic UK test, comprises a further 3 questions;
Days Spent in the UK
Previously Resident
Less than 16 Days
Automatically Not Resident
1. Are you present in the UK for 183 days or more in a tax year? (spending any day past Midnight is classed as being present in the UK for a day)
16 - 45 Days
Resident if 4 UK Ties or more
So how does residency affect you? Well as a UK resident you will pay tax on both your UK Income and Overseas Income - but this also means that you are eligible for the UK tax free personal allowance. Not Previously Resident If you are a non-resident then you will only be liable Automatically Not Resident to pay income tax on all income arising in the UK. Automatically Not Resident
46 - 90 Days
Resident if 3 UK Ties or more
Resident if 4 UK Ties or more
2. Is your only home in the UK?
91- 120 Days
Resident if 2 UK Ties or more
Resident if 3 UK Ties or more
121 - 182 Days
Resident if 1 UK Tie or more
Resident if 2 UK Ties or more
183 Days
Automatically UK Resident
Automatically UK Resident
But what if you answered no to all of the above? Well then this leads us onto the Automatic UK test.
3. Do you carry out full-time work in the UK? But it doesn't end there - if you still answer no to all three of these questions, there are still steps to consider.
The below table will help to determine your sufficient tie test outcome - this can affect your residency.
APARI has been developed to support people with any resident status - you can sign up for free at www.apari-digital.com today and start Making Tax Doable!
GREEN
www.theolivepress.es
August 12th - August 25th 2021
If we all do a little we will achieve little - the evidence is there
T
HERE is a worldwide organisation you probably haven’t heard of called the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). Bear with me,this is highly relevant. Formed in 1988, this body provides politicians and Governments every seven years with assessments on the science,the impacts and the potential options for tackling climate change. They are meeting now. Their findings will be shared with the representatives of 195 countries.
Their last report, published in 2013, helped to set the scene for the Paris climate agreement signed in 2015. This report was highly critical of our lackadaisical approach to tackling one of the most critical issues of our time…..climate change. In 2013,its assessment said: “Humans are the dominant cause of global warming.” Interestingly this report had a great impact on younger generations, many taking to the streets to demand effective political response. Has it changed things? In my view only a little.I’ve said before .. If we all do a little we will achieve little. The new report that will come from this meeting that will last a week, held virtually because of COVID, will play a key part in guiding global leaders who meet this November in Glasgow. It will be DAMNING! How can it not be.The evidence is staring us in the face.
11
Green
Time to wake up!
Matters
By Martin Tye
New report on climate change will be damning
Extreme weather events have shaken Europe, the US, Canada and Asia.
GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER! The IPCC is not just a bunch of scientists. This body is commissioned by governments, and IS unique in the way it operates. More than 200 researchers have been working in groups to gather all the relevant scientifically proven evidence. Nothing is written that is not scientifically correct. The report will have new information on sea levels rising and the state of the Arctic and Antarctic. It will also report on the likelihood of us holding the
global rise in temperatures to 1.5C this century. It will also review how governments are tracking against agreed targets set in the Paris climate pact. For sure Spain will not be crowned in glory. Time for the politicians to ‘walk the walk’. Relevant and strong lyrics come to mind from a track released in 2018 by the Black Eyed Peas (pictured left) called Ring the Alarm. “Wake up! I wanna say what’s on my motherf***ing conscious The whole world right now is f***ing bonkers” Anybody else agree with these sentiments?
Martin Tye is the owner of energy switch company Mariposa Energy. +34 638145664 ( Spain Phone ) Email him at martin@mariposaenergia.es
CORAL REVIVAL Seabed cleanup set to help save endangered species
A PIONEERING maritime nursery has been created on the Andalucia coast to rescue rare coral damaged by fishing. The SOS Corals Project has been set up in Almuñecar’s Punta de la Monta conservation area. The mixture of local rocky and sandy seabed features high numbers of endangered species, including the orange coral and the candelabrum coral. The water quality, the underwater relief system and marine currents have combined to create the right conditions in the area for coral to thrive. The candelabrum coral is especially rare and normally flourishes in depths of more than 50 metres. However, the Punta de la Mona has seen up to 1,000 specimens develop at just 30 metres. Damage caused by the fishing trade has prompted the setting up of one of the Mediterranean
Sea’s first coral nurseries across several zones. SOS Corals co-ordinator, Marina Palacios, said: “This colony has hundreds of endangered specimens because they are very vulnerable to nets, hooks, lines, traps and other fishing gear, which kills them off.” Divers and volunteers started mapping out the location of coral colonies. The team created areas of around 50 square metres where up to 250 kilos of rubbish, almost all from fishing, was removed. Just one plot had 200 metres of rope, 300 metres of netting, and a three kilometre length of fishing line. Eight out 10 corals were damaged and they have been individually cleaned up by the divers before being transferred to colony areas. SOS Corals has set 2025 as a target for a fully-healthy coral zone with five ‘safe’ nursery plots being created over the next few months.
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Flying high NINE White-tailed Eagles are to be released in the first step of a plan to reintroduce the species to Spain. The birds are being housed in an acclimatisation enclosure in Asturias having arrived from Norway, before being released into the wild. The scheme is being led by Spanish conservation group GREFA and follows the restoration of Bearded Vulture to Asturias. Norway has been key to the reintroduction of the species to several countries where the eagle had gone extinct. These include Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Wight in England. The Spanish birds have been fitted with GPS transmitters so scientists can keep track of them in the coming months.
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FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL Amber light SPAIN’S tourism industry welcomed the British government decision to keep it on the amber list, allowing those who are fully vaccinated to enter the UK without the need for quarantine. The changes that were announced by the UK’s Transport Secretary Grant Shapps came after weeks of speculation that Spain might be heading for an ‘amber plus’ list or new ‘amber watchlist’, both scenarios which would seriously deter tourists from visiting. But instead the current rules as regards travel to the UK from Spain will be maintained until the next review in two weeks. Confusingly, the Department for Transport said that ‘arrivals from Spain and all its islands are advised to use a PCR test as their pre-departure test wherever possible’. This is despite the fact that the official regulation allows people to use the cheaper lateral flow antigen tests.
August 12th August 25th 2021
13
CORKER! By Katherine Brook
A SPANISH vineyard has beaten the world’s finest to be named the best in the world to visit. Herederos Marques de Riscal has been given the accolade by online drinks retailer, The Bottle Club. Fifteen vineyards from around the world were ranked on a scale of 0-90, taking in different variables like the year established, size, distance to nearest city, cost of tour,
Spanish bodega named best in world to visit
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FRAUD ALERT THE Spanish Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) is warning holidaymakers to be careful when renting holiday homes in order to avoid falling prey to fraud. Common tricks used by con men include posting adverts for non-existent properties and pocketing the deposit, phishing - posing as companies or official government bodies to obtain personal information - and offering accommodation that is in much worse condition than advertised. If any money has been handed over for a non-existent property and the company does not offer customers the chance of making a refund claim, victims are urged to report the case to the police or the Guardia Civil cybercrime department. When the conditions of an apartment are not as agreed, the client is entitled to make a claim either to the owner – if rented directly with no intermediaries – or to the internet platform or agency used. According to the OCU, cases of fraud have shot up due to a rise in the number of holidaymakers renting apartments and chalets instead of staying at hotels.
available. The highest score was awarded to Spain’s Herederos del Marques de Riscal, in Elciego, with 71.6, over 12 points higher than Bodegas Salentein in Argentina, which came in second place with 59.2. Next was Antinori nel Chianti Classico, in Italy (59.1), followed by Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte in France (58.4), and Delaire Graff Estate in South Africa (55.5). Other countries to also make the top 15 list include Austria, Chile, New Zealand, Portugal, Uruguay and Germany. In last place was Catena Zapata, in Argentina, with a score of 46.3. Herederos del Marques de Riscal began operating in 1858, and was the largest vineyard in the study, spanning 985 hectares. Tours of the vineyard start from €19 and they have a variety of red, white and rose wines available.
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FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL
12 books about Spain for your holiday reading list, with Shannon Chaffers
S
UMMER in Spain usually brings with it the opportunity to get out and explore the country. But even if the pandemic forces you to stay put this year, don’t forget that something as simple as a great book can transport you to the world’s most interesting places. With that in mind, here are 12 books about Spain to check out in the remaining weeks of summer. Ranging from historical investigations to action-paced thrillers, each provides a unique insight into life in this rich and varied country.
THE ALCHEMIST by Paulo Coelho
T
HIS internationally renowned tale of an Andalusian shepherd boy who sets off on a hero’s journey in search of hidden treasure is both heartwarming and fulfilling. Coelho’s writing offers both inspiration and wisdom to power you into autumn.
MADRID AGAIN by Soledad Maura
A
nother modern-day novel, this tells the story of a Spanish woman torn between the life she has made for herself in America and the family she left behind in Madrid. When she decides to become a historian to discover her family’s past, a whole new journey awaits, and it’s one you’ll want to take with her.
GALICIAN SONGS by Rosalia de Castro
S
witching genres, this book of poems about Galician traditions and culture will shed light on the particular experiences of the Galicians in northern Spain. De Castro is seen as the founder of modern Galician literature, and with her work only recently being translated into English, reading her poems is a great opportunity to immerse yourself into the oft-overlooked Galician way of life.
August 12th - August 25th 2021
LITERARY SUMMER
DON QUIXOTE by Miguel de Cervantes
P
erhaps Spain’s most famous novel, Don Quixote is widely considered to be a foundational text of Western literature. Written in two parts in the early 1600s, it follows the trials and tribulations of a nobleman who, inspired by tales of chivalry, decides to become a knight. Its varying narrative styles and engaging plotlines still holds up centuries later, and it’s a mustread for those interested in the roots of Spanish literature.
THE ORNAMENT OF THE WORLD: HOW MUSLIMS, JEWS, AND CHRISTIANS CREATED A CULTURE OF TOLERANCE IN MEDIEVAL SPAIN by María Rosa Menocal
I
f you are interested in learning more about the Real Madrid-Barcelona rivalry, Spanish Vignettes is your go-to guide for this and other important elements of Spanish culture. American expat Norman Berdischevsky covers 34 topics in a fun, digestible way that is perfect for newcomers to Spain.
hen it comes to contemporary novels, you can’t go wrong with this one, in which a mother must confront the past she left behind in Sevilla when she returns with her daughter years later. It makes for a feel-good read that’s perfect for your summer holiday. To find out more, check out the author’s online interview with ---
I D
unne’s work is a bottom-up narrative focused on football. The Irish journalist goes beyond the dominant Real Madrid/Barcelona narrative and dives into Madrid’s working class club, Rayo Vallecano. Providing insight of the club’s neighborhood pride and anti-fascist roots, he achieves a unique blend of sports and history that lovers of both will find captivating.
D
ialing back the clock, Ernest Hemingway’s 1940 novel set during the Spanish Civil War is regarded by many as one of the best novels written about the war. Drawn from his experiences covering the conflict for an American newspaper, this gripping tale centres on an American fighting with a Spanish guerilla force as a member of the International Brigades. It is just one of Hemingway’s books about Spain: The Sun Also Rises and Death in the Afternoon are also worth checking out.
DRIVING OVER LEMONS by Chris Stewart
Quick Crossword
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BISTRO & BAR
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his historical undertaking makes for a great pairing with Hemingway’s novel, telling the full story of the International Brigades who fought against Franco in Spain. A bottom-up investigation by the Madrid-based British journalist sheds light on the complicated, fascinating, and chaotic experiences of these anti-fascist fighters.
GARDEN BY THE SEA by Merce Rodoreda
his light-hearted, witty memoir offers another accessible avenue into Spanish culture. Former Genesis drummer Chris Stewart describes how he and his family adjust to their new life in Spain after buying a remote farm in Andalucia on a whim.
SUDOKU
THE MED
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THE INTERNATIONAL BRIGADES by Giles Tremlett
FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS by Ernest Hemingway
OP Puzzle solutions
Down: 1 Sprawl, 2 Borrow, 3 Coma, 4 Pony, 5 Gram, 6 Film, 7 Cent, 11 Decode, 13 Amend, 14 Eaves, 15 Abuser, 17 At bay, 18 Scout, 22 Urging, 23 Kettle, 24 Cogs, 25 Silt, 26 Sine, 27 Many, 28 Rome.
THE ORANGE GROVE by Rosana Ley
WORKING CLASS HEROES: THE STORY OF RAYO VALLECANO, MADRID’S FORGOTTEN TEAM by Robby Dunne
f you are looking for a non-fiction approach to medieval Spain, this historical narrative will do the trick. As the title suggests, Menocal details the relatively peaceful coexistence of Muslims, Christians, and Jews in Spain that lasted for 500 years during the medieval era. Offering lessons for the present day, it makes for a fascinating historical account as well.
Across: 8 Pro bono, 9 Raise, 10 Already?, 12 Mamet, 16 Laws, 19 Cable TV, 20 Blondes, 21 Dusk, 24 Cysts, 27 Mr Right, 29 Golan, 30 Nominal.
SPANISH VIGNETTES by Norman Berdichevsky
A
n enthralling work by one of Spain’s great Catalan writers closes out this list. This novel follows the lives of a wealthy family and their friends who spend their summers vacationing at a villa on the Meditteranean. Told through the eyes of their gardener, this sun-soaked, carefree story evolves into a tension-filled mystery when a wealthier family moves in next door.
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FINAL WORDS
Shut out SPANISH football striker Alvaro Morata was forced to sleep at a hotel after his wife accidentally locked him out of the house. Worse yet, his team, Juventus, had just lost 3-0 to Barcelona.
Winging it WATCH out for American-style chicken wings by La Cocinera, which have been recalled after certain packs were mislabelled, leaving out a key allergen ingredient, milk!
expat
voice in Spain August 12th - August 25th 2021
Not snickering now
A BIT EARLY
Jelly big! A GIANT species of jellyfish that can reach a whopping 40 kilos has been spotted off the coast of Andalucia. Researchers believe the increase in ‘jellyfish blooms’ could be down to global warming.
Your
Fountain mania
A HISTORIC fountain, dating from 1790 in the centre of Malaga has been used as an impromptu bathtub. A man has been captured on camera bathing in the Fuente Los Cristos, The image shows a man, dripping suds into the drinking water - at least with the decency of wearing Speedo-style swim trunks. The image has triggered various comments, many of which slam the fountain user. “This cannot be allowed. We need quality tourism.” said one twitter user.
SUMMER may still be in full swing, but in the north of Spain, Christmas preparations have already arrived. The festivities have started early in Vigo in Galicia after the city started to string up its Christmas lights.. Mayor Abel Caballero said that the council is committed to having the ‘best Christmas in the world’ as 11 million led lights were installed across the town
Christmas decorations going up to ‘boost tourism’
Bite
Trees
The city council is decorating more than 350 streets and has ordered more than 1,000 trees - over double the number they had last year. In an attempt to boost tourism to the area, the city has said this year will be ‘bigger and better than ever before’ and boasted that the display will be the greatest in the world, putting the likes of New York, London and Paris to shame. The city also plans to erect the tallest tree in the world, a
SNICKERS Spain has found itself in a sticky situation after an ad for the chocolate bar was branded homophobic. Now the company has apologised and pulled the 20 second TV advert featuring Spanish ‘influencer’ Aless Gibaja. In it, the long haired and famously camp Gibaja (pictured above) is at a beach bar with a friend where he asks a waiter for a ‘sexy orange juice with vitamins A, B and C.
ATTRACTION: Vigo illuminations
By Kirsty McKenzie
ski slope and a gigantic Ferris wheel, which is normally one of the main attractions of the display. Home to Europe’s largest fishing fleet, Vigo’s Christmas lights have been a great draw in previous years.
But visitors will have to wait before they can view the illuminations in their full glory. While the €1 million decorations are going up now, it is thought that they will be officially switched on in November, with visitors arriving en masse for the switching on ceremony at the end of November.
The waiter gives him a Snickers ice cream. After taking a bite, Gibaja turns into a macho short-haired bearded man with a deep voice (above left). “Better?” the friend asks. ‘Better,’ the bearded man replies. Snickers’ slogan then comes across the screen: “You’re not yourself when you’re hungry.” This did not go down well with the LGBT State Federation. It tweeted: “It is shameful and regrettable that at this point there are companies that continue to perpetuate stereotypes and promote homophobia. We are here if you need training!”