Costa Blanca North I No. 2149 I 10 - 16 September 2026 I FREE Newspaper Dep. Legal A 42-2025 - ISSN 3015-1309
Local pride on a plate THE Mediterranean flavours that have helped shape the identity of the Marina Alta were celebrated at a special gastronomic event in Teulada Moraira. Alere/Dolia 2026 brought together chefs, winemakers, fishermen, producers and food experts to explore the close relationship between the region’s coastline, vineyards and culinary heritage. This year’s event, held at the Auditori Teulada Moraira, focused on the Mediterranean and Moscatel under the theme ‘Mare Nostrum / Mare Moscatus’. The programme highlighted two products particularly closely associated with the Marina Alta: Moscatel and traditional salazones, or salted and cured seafood. The event began with a tasting showcasing the versatility of Moscatel, led by sommelier and winemaker Natàlia Piera. Local wines were paired with traditional salazones prepared by chef Evarist Miralles, including bonito, hueva, sangatxo and capellà. The combination reflected the area’s long-standing connection between
Credit: Instagram/AjuntamentTeuladaMoraira
Seafood, Moscatel wine and centuries-old culinary traditions celebrated
the sea and the vineyards inland. Organisers also used the event to highlight concerns about preserving traditional products, particularly sweet wines and mistelas, which face an uncertain future unless younger generations continue to value and
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consume them. The evening also showed how these traditional ingredients can be adapted for modern tastes. Bartender Iván Talens created a cocktail using Moscatel from Teulada, citrus, bitter flavours and ginger soda, with salt
providing another link to the Mediterranean. Miralles later presented six dishes during a showcooking session celebrating the flavours of the sea. His creations included Moscatel jelly with salazones, dried octopus, bonito with tomato and garlic, figs with tuna belly, a red prawn pastisset and an onion tatin. But the event was about more than food. A tribute was paid to the fishermen and women whose work has sustained coastal communities for generations. Diego Noguera, president of the Moraira Fishermen’s Guild, received a special commemorative tribute. The evening concluded with a floral wreath being taken out to sea in memory of those who had dedicated their lives to fishing. After 15 editions, Alere/Dolia continues to underline the importance of protecting the Marina Alta’s culinary heritage, ensuring its traditional flavours remain part of the region’s future as well as its past.
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10 - 16 September 2026
THOUSANDS of people packed the streets of Benidorm on Saturday, September 5, as the resort’s annual Pride parade brought an explosion of colour, music and celebration to the Costa Blanca. The spectacular procession, the centrepiece of Benidorm Pride 2026, saw 18 vibrant floats, dancers, drag performers and entertainers make their way along Levante Beach and through the town centre, with crowds cheering and waving rainbow flags throughout the route. More than 20,000 visitors were expected to attend this year’s festival, underlining its status as one of Europe’s leading LGBTQ+ events.
Thousands packed the streets for Benidorm pride.
Locals and tourists joined together to celebrate diversity and inclusion, creating a carnival atmosphere. The parade has become one of the biggest annual events in Benidorm, attracting visitors from across Spain, the UK and the rest of Europe while
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Rainbow streets A smart step Credit: AjuntamentdeBenidorm
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providing a major boost for hotels, bars, restaurants and local businesses. After the parade, celebrations continued late into the evening at the official Main Stage event at the Auditori Julio Iglesias, featuring live entertainment, DJs and drag performances. Benidorm Pride has grown from a community celebration into one of the Mediterranean’s most recognised Pride festivals, earning international recognition through its recent affiliation with InterPride. For many, Saturday’s colourful parade once again proved why the city is regarded as one of Spain’s most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers.
DENIA has taken another step towards becoming one of Spain’s leading smart tourist destinations after outperforming the national average in the Smart Tourist Destinations Network assessment, carried out across more than 250 destinations. The town has received its official Diagnostic Report and Action Plan from SEGITTUR, the Spanish state body responsible for tourism innovation. The report measures destinations against dozens of requirements covering governance, sustainability, accessibility, innovation and technology, helping local authorities identify priorities for future improvements. Denia achieved an overall compliance score of 49.1 per cent, placing it ahead of the average recorded by other destinations. Officials say the result reflects years of investment in modernising tourism while making the town more inclusive and environmentally responsible. The report also highlighted particularly strong performance in innovation and accessibility, two areas where Denia exceeded the average scores. Tourism councillor Marta Gascó described the findings as an important milestone but stressed that there is still
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Important milestone for Denia becoming one of Spain’s leading smart tourist destinations.
work ahead. The next phase will focus on implementing the recommendations contained in the action plan, which remains valid until August 2029. Denia joined Spain’s Smart Tourist Destinations Network in 2024, with the evaluation drawing on information provided by council departments and private tourism businesses. Local leaders believe the programme will help improve services for residents and visitors alike while ensuring tourism growth remains sustainable for years to come.
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10 - 16 September 2026
Call centre help
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Garden friend or foe Smarter garden control
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NEWS
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SPEAK TO A HUMAN
What to say when the call centre is automated.
FOR foreign residents in Spain struggling with automated phone menus, relief is arriving. A Spanish law, Ley 10/2025, sets strict customer-service standards designed to eliminate endless robot loops and improve consumer rights. Under the legislation, companies cannot rely solely on automated menus. Customers now have the right to request a human operator directly from the main menu or at any point during the call. Expatriates facing language barriers can ask for “atención personalizada” or
“un operador” to reach a real person. The law mandates that covered businesses answer 95 per cent of requests for human assistance within an average time of three minutes. Furthermore, customer-service calls must not exceed standard landline or mobile rates. Priority assistance is also guaranteed for customers aged 65 and over, as well as disabled individuals. When issues arise, customers are advised to log details and request an official reference number.
Companies must address complaints with reasoned responses and generally resolve them within 15 working days. Critical service disruptions carry a two-hour deadline, while billing disputes must be handled within five days. The legislation officially took effect on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Covered companies must fully adapt their operations to meet the new legal standards by Monday, December 28, 2026, so they should be in the process of change now.
Spanish garden delight.
SPANISH gardens host a wide range of insects tailored to the dry Mediterranean climate. Managing them successfully requires identifying which species help your garden and which cause damage. Beneficial insects either hunt pests, pollinate flowers, or perform both roles. Ladybirds, green lacewings, and hoverflies act as natural predators. Their larvae consume hundreds of aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs each day. Predatory bugs like Orius and native praying mantises also target destructive garden pests. Other than insects, lizards, spiders, and firefly larvae help maintain ecological balance. Gardeners can encourage these natural allies by planting herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and fennel while keeping broad-spectrum chemical sprays to a minimum. Pests require control only when populations increase rapidly. Aphids, red spider mites, and whiteflies drain plant sap and spread viruses, particularly across citrus, tomatoes, and roses. Mealybugs and scale insects leave cottony deposits or hard shells on stems, while the olive fruit fly directly targets ripening fruit. Before using chemical treatments, knock pests off foliage with a strong water jet, or apply potassium soap, neem oil, or sulphur. Broad-spectrum insecticides should be avoided, as they destroy useful predators that naturally manage pest populations. A varied garden featuring mixed flowering plants and minimal chemical intervention maintains a healthy, self-regulating ecosystem.
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Clearer rules ahead SPAIN SIMPLIFIES OFFICIAL PAPERWORK SPAIN has approved its first nationwide rules on cognitive accessibility, requiring plainer language, pictograms and clearer signs across public administration, healthcare, transport, justice and other essential services. The decree, approved by the Council of Ministers on September 1, was drawn up by the Ministry of Social Rights under Pablo Bustinduy and covers people with intellectual disabilities, autism, acquired brain injury and dementia.The regulation also explicitly lists migrants and foreign residents who are not fluent in Spanish or the co-official regional languages among those it is designed to help. For the many foreign nationals living in Spain who have struggled through an empadronamiento form
or a residency application, that detail could matter as much as the disability provisions the law was originally written for. A new body, the Centro Español de Accesibilidad Cognitiva, will help adapt some of the country’s most-used paperwork, including tax declarations, and identity document procedures. Officials have been clear that the changes mean clearer Spanish rather than translation, so foreign residents should not expect a right to deal with officials in English. Forms, signs and websites are expected to be updated gradually rather than overnight, with different sectors given their own timescales to comply.
Official paperwork in Spain is set to become easier to understand under new government rules.
euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
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Rescue took place on the cliffs near Cala Moraig.
A HIKE along the dramatic Llebeig route in the Marina Alta ended in a scare after a woman became dizzy and was unable to continue walking along the exposed cliffside on Sunday, September 6. Emergency services were alerted at around 12.44pm after the hiker became unwell in the upper section of the route, close to the coastal paths linking Cala Moraig and El Portet. The remote and rugged terrain made reaching her by conventional means difficult, prompting the deployment of a rescue helicopter and members of the Provincial Consortium of Alicante Firefighters’ specialist Grupo Especial de Rescate (GER). Fortunately, the helicopter was already operating in the area when the emergency was reported, allowing rescuers to respond quickly. The team located the woman from
Cliff rescue the air before carrying out the evacuation from the difficult section of the trail. The rescue operation was completed in around half an hour. At approximately 1.18pm, the helicopter transported the woman to the helipad at the regional fire station in Denia, where she could receive further assessment. The woman was not reported to have suffered serious injuries. The incident highlights the challenges emergency crews can face when hikers become unwell on the Marina Alta’s steep and exposed coastal routes, particularly during warm weather. Hikers are advised to prepare carefully, carry sufficient water and seek assistance promptly if they become unable to continue.
LOCAL NEWS
Children’s parade CROWDS couldn’t help smiling at the colourful celebrations as Javea’s popular children’s parade brought music, costumes, confetti and tradition to the streets during the annual Loreto festivities. Families, residents and visitors gathered along the route to watch the decorated floats make their way through the seaside neighbourhood, with children particularly excited by the sweets and confetti thrown from the passing procession. The event is one of the highlights of the Loreto celebrations and has become a much-loved tradition for several generations of local families. Alongside the colourful floats, the parade is known for its creativity and humour, with participants using costumes and displays to
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10 - 16 September 2026
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Music, costumes, confetti and tradition.
entertain the crowds. The spectacle also showcases the work of the festive groups, volunteers and organisers who spend weeks preparing their floats and costumes. Their efforts help maintain one of Duanes de la Mar’s most recognisable annual traditions. The Loreto festivities combine religious events with music, street celebrations and
activities for all ages, reflecting the strong community identity of Javea’s traditional fishing district. As the final floats passed through the streets, the evening once again demonstrated the enduring appeal of the carrozas parade, bringing together locals and visitors for a lively celebration filled with colour, laughter and community spirit.
LOCAL NEWS
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Credit: AjuntamentdeBenidorm
VISITORS heading to the sand in Benidorm are now being greeted by five simple messages encouraging them to enjoy the coastline responsibly and help protect the resort’s beaches. Benidorm Town Hall has launched a new awareness campaign across around 100 beach access walkways, focusing on sustainability, responsible behaviour and peaceful coexistence. The messages are displayed in both Spanish and English, reflecting the international nature of the city’s visitors and ensuring holidaymakers can understand the reminders as they make their way to the beach. The five messages cover everyday actions that can make a difference, including looking after the plac-es people visit, using water responsibly, keeping noise levels down and taking rubbish away.
Credit: AjuntamentdeCalpe
Writing in the sand Equality mural revealed
New artwork sends a powerful message.
Big beach push with five simple messages.
Another message highlights the benefits of enjoying Benidorm’s coastal environment and breathing in the sea air. The campaign is based on the idea that protecting the city’s beaches is a shared responsibility between residents, tourists and authorities. The campaign forms part of Benidorm’s wid-
er sustainability strategy as the resort continues to pro-mote responsible tourism.The city is also a finalist for the European Green Leaf 2028 award. By putting the reminders directly on the routes to the sand, the council hopes the messages will be seen by thousands of beachgoers and encourage everyone to play their part.
A STRIKING new mural celebrating equality has transformed Calpe’s bus station, bringing a powerful social message to one of the town’s busiest public spaces. The colourful artwork has been created to promote inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities, ensuring that residents and visitors alike encounter its message as they travel through the station each day. Rather than placing the piece in a gallery or exhibition space, Calpe Town Hall chose the bus station so the mural would become part of everyday life. Thousands of commuters, students and tourists are expected to pass by the artwork, encouraging conversations about equality while making the transport hub brighter and more welcoming. The mural is the latest addition to Calpe’s
growing collection of public art. In recent years, the town has invested in murals across its historic centre, celebrating local heritage, community spirit and important social values through large-scale works by artists. Local officials believe public art can do more than decorate walls. By placing meaningful artwork in highly visible locations, they hope to inspire reflection, foster respect and strengthen community connections. As towns across Spain increasingly use street art to highlight social issues, Calpe’s newest mural stands as a daily reminder of the importance of equality, inclusion and mutual respect, showing how public spaces can become places not only of movement but also of inspiration.
10 - 16 September 2026
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LOCAL NEWS
Emotional tribute journey FOUR friends from Wales are taking on an extraordinary road trip to Benidorm in memory of their friend Nathan Osman, who died in the Spanish resort in 2024. Jamie, Lloyd, Grant and Henry are preparing to drive thousands of miles in a car costing less than £500 as part of The Rat Run 2026. What began as an unusual motoring challenge has taken on a much more personal meaning, with the friends using the journey to raise money for Nathan’s family. Nathan, a 30-year-old father of four, died on September 28, 2024, after falling from the cliffs of the MORAIRA is proving to be one of the Marina Alta’s biggest magnets for international property hunters, with foreign demand accounting for 57 per cent of total interest in homes for sale, according to Idealis-
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Four more friends to join the Rat Run 2026.
Serra Gelada during the early hours of the morning. Spanish police concluded there was no evidence
of criminal involvement and treated the death as accidental or potentially voluntary. However, Na-
than’s family has continued to question what happened and believes he may have been robbed and killed. The family has campaigned for further answers, with the case even raised in the UK Parliament. The four friends have launched a fundraising appeal to support the family and have already raised £1415. Their journey will involve an old car, a long drive from Wales to the Costa Blanca and, they expect, plenty of breakdowns along the way. For Nathan’s friends, however, every mile will be about remembering him and helping his loved ones.
Property hotspot ta data. That puts Moraira fractionally ahead of neighbouring Benitachell, at 56.9 per cent, and Benissa, at
53 per cent, making it the highest-ranked location in the Marina Alta in the national comparison. Moraira also ranked seventh across Spain, underlining the strength of its appeal to overseas buyers looking for a home in the country. Benitachell followed in eighth place, while Benissa was 11th. The figures show just how strongly international buyers are drawn to the area. The biggest overseas demand in Moraira came
from the Netherlands, followed by the United Kingdom and Belgium. It is important to note that the figures measure international demand for properties advertised for sale, rather than the number of homes actually purchased by foreign buyers. Separate property data has also highlighted the area’s high level of foreign ownership, with around 52.7 per cent of properties in Teulada Moraira owned by foreigners.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Credit: Shutterstock/Maryna Postryhan
ALTEA has strengthened its commitment to animal welfare with three new municipal protocols designed to make it easier for residents and local services to respond when animals need help. The measures, approved by the Department of Health and Animal Welfare, aim to create clearer procedures, improve cooperation between organisations and give residents practical guidance in potentially difficult situations. One protocol explains what to do when an animal is found in a vulnerable or emergency situation in a public place. It covers pets, community cats, farm animals, captive animals, wildlife and stranded marine animals, as well as animals that are injured, involved in accidents or found dead. A second protocol sets out how owners can recover animals picked up
Credit: Joan Flint
Animal protection Business as usual
Focus on animal welfare in Altea.
by municipal services, including cases involving illness, injury or accidents. It also addresses identification, traceability and health and safety requirements. The third focuses on potentially dangerous animals, bringing together information about licences and registration, along with requirements covering changes of ownership or address, sales, adoptions and re-
movals from the register. The protocols have been shared with relevant council departments, local veterinary practices, animal collection services, the municipal animal protection centre and local protection associations. It aims to encourage responsible ownership and help residents know exactly what to do when an animal needs assistance.
U3A Marina Baixa’s first Autumn adventure.
FOLLOWING their summer break, U3A Marina Baixa began the Autumn season with a trip to the L’Albarda Gardens in Pedreguer and Denia. The weather was perfect, enabling the members to wander around the beautiful botanical gardens created back in 1990. The garden of L’Albarda has more than 700 species of native plants including magnificent palms, roses and an outstanding display of cacti. After spending the morning there, the members travelled to Denia with its super yachts moored in the port providing a sharp contrast to the historic town overseen by its 11th century castle. The museums and buildings in Denia made it a town certainly worth exploring.
U3A Marina Baixa’s next trip is on Friday, October 23, visiting the Cuevas de la Caleveras in Benidoleig and then on to Moraira. On Friday, October 9, the Association will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary with an afternoon tea at Altea Golf Club. Certainly, a milestone to be celebrated. The next General Meeting of U3A Marina Baixa will be on Mondayy, September 28, at the Casa de Cultura, Afaz de Pi. The meeting starts at 11.00am but anyone wishing to join should arrive before 10.30am. Annual subscription is still only €10 and allows access to all the interesting groups, activities and events offered to the members. Find U3A Marina Baixa on Facebook to learn more.
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Strongest man
MUCHAMIEL is getting ready for a spectacular display of strength as some of Spain’s strongest athletes descend on the town for the Second Tournament of the National Strength League 2026. Taking place at the
semi-covered track at Polideportivo Els Oms on Saturday, September 19 from 11.00 am, the competition promises a thrilling day of power, determination and plenty of drama. Athletes will go headto-head in five brutal tests
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designed to push strength, speed and endurance to the limit. The action begins with a 15-tonne truck pull, with athletes having less than 60 seconds to haul the enormous vehicle 20 metres. Next comes a 400kg yoke carry, before competitors go head-to-head in a gripping elimination contest, using a bar to force their opponent out of a six-metre circle. There is no let-up. The 150kg Finger must be repeatedly raised from the ground and dropped within 90 seconds, while the final challenge sees athletes carry three barrels weighing up to 125kg over 10 metres. Visitors can look forward to impressive lifts, gruelling challenges and moments of genuine sporting drama. Best of all, admission is completely free. Whether you are a fan of strongmen or simply curious to see what these remarkable athletes can do, it is an event with plenty to offer.
LOCAL NEWS
Glittering gala JAVEA’S business and social community came together on Saturday, September 5, for the annual Rotary Javea Solidarity Gala, an evening celebrating local achievements while raising support for projects across the Marina Alta. Held at the Denia Marriott La Sella Golf Resort, the event brought together representatives from businesses, associations and the wider community for an evening of dinner, recThe event took place at Denia Marriott La Sella Golf Hotel. ognition and fundraising. The gala also marked a change of leadership for Rotary Javea, Cholbi, Betania Day Centre and Virgen de la with outgoing president Ana Vasbinder Soledad Residence in Ondara. reflecting on a year of community projects Ana Cruz Gómez officially took over as and charitable initiatives. the new president, with Luis Santos apAmong the club’s recent work were an pointed secretary, Ingrid Monté as macera exhibition celebrating local artist Tomás and Ingrid Rodríguez as treasurer. Sivera and the Guardianes del Planeta enThe evening also recognised Isabel vironmental project with Port de Javea Moreno and the Fishermen’s Guild of Javea school. for their support of Rotary initiatives. Rotary Javea has also supported orMoney raised through the gala, including ganisations including Aprosdeco, while a charity raffle, will help fund future social, its Christmas campaigns have provided educational and environmental projects in assistance to the Asilo de los Hermanos Javea and across the Marina Alta. Credit: Marriott
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Feeling hot
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LOCAL NEWS
Officially the hottest summer in 20 years.
JAVEA has officially endured its hottest summer in 20 years, with new weather data confirming that 2026 has broken every recent temperature record. Figures from MeteoXàbia show the average temperature across the summer reached 27.2C, making it the warmest summer since the local weather station began recording data two decades ago. The findings also reveal a clear longterm trend, with the five hottest summers on record all occurring within the past five years. Although Javea did not experience its highest-ever single temperature this August, consistently hot days and unusually warm nights pushed
the seasonal average to a record high. August alone averaged 28.1C, around 1.5C above the long-term average. The highest temperature recorded during the month was 35.7C on August 19, while the coolest reading was 19.8C on August 30. The figures come after an exceptionally hot summer across the Valencian Community, with AEMET also confirming that August 2026 was the hottest August ever recorded in the region. For residents and visitors, the data reinforces what many have already felt: summers in Javea are becoming hotter, longer and more intense.
BENIDORM is turning one of its busiest pedestrian streets into an open-air art gallery as part of a wider project to revitalise Calle Rioja. The city council has begun work on a new Espai d’Art, which will feature six permanent exhibition panels mounted on the wall of the Ruzafa public car park after permission was granted by the building’s owners. The aim is to bring culture out of traditional galleries and into everyday public spaces where residents and visitors can enjoy it while walking through the city. The first exhibition is expected to showcase historic photographs from Benidorm’s municipal archive, focusing on the Calvari neighbourhood and revealing how the resort has transformed over the decades. The display is intended to celebrate the city’s heritage while creating a new cultural attraction. The gallery forms part of a complete makeover of Calle Rioja, which links
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Road revamp l’Aigüera with El Calvari and sees heavy foot traffic every day. The upgrade includes new non-slip paving, tactile surfaces to improve accessibility for visually impaired pedestrians, modern lighting,
street furniture and the planting of four mulberry trees. Work is expected to take around two weeks, with residents retaining access to their homes throughout.
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Suspected firestarter
A MAN has been arrested after being found carrying three cigarette lighters close to the scene of a major wildfire near the María Ibars secondary school in Denia on Saturday, September 5. The blaze broke out
on scrubland beside the school, sending thick smoke across the area and prompting a major emergency response. Firefighters, police officers and emergency services rushed to the scene as flames spread dangerous-
ly close to nearby homes, forcing the evacuation of around 200 residents while aircraft joined efforts to contain the fire. According to reports, officers located the suspect close to the fire shortly after it started. During a search they allegedly discovered three lighters in his possession, leading to his arrest on suspicion of being connected to the incident. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the blaze and have not yet confirmed the cause. The fire caused widespread concern as it burned close to homes and educational facilities, with emergency crews working for hours to prevent it spreading further. Residents watched as helicopters and ground teams tackled the flames before the situation was brought under control. Police investigations remain ongoing.
LOCAL NEWS
Yoga for Nepal
Credit: Instagram/BodhiJavea
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Charity event to support families devastated by catastrophic flooding in Nepal.
A YOGA class in Javea gave local residents the chance to stretch, relax and help families thousands of kilometres away who have been affected by devastating floods in Nepal. The charity event took place on Saturday, September 5, and formed part of the international #YogaForNepal campaign, bringing together yoga and wellness communities to raise money for people whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed. Several sessions were planned across the Marina Alta, including yoga, Tai Chi and Tibetan singing bowls at venues in Javea, Gata de Gorgos and Jesus Pobre. The day began at Bodhi Integral Health Studio in the port of Javea, with further classes taking place throughout
the morning before an evening Bikram yoga session. Attendees then enjoyed another Viniyoga class in Gata de Gorgos on Sunday, September 6. Participants were asked for a suggested donation of €12, although organisers encouraged people to give whatever they can. Funds will support Build Up Nepal, an organisation helping vulnerable communities construct safer, affordable homes. Following the floods, the charity is providing emergency shelter while supporting longer-term recovery. People who didn’t attend can also contribute through the online fundraiser. The event highlights how a local community can turn a morning of exercise into practical help for families in need.
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Hotel boom BENIDORM has ended August with hotels almost full, as the Costa Blanca resort continues to attract huge numbers of holidaymakers and shows little sign of slowing down. Hotel occupancy reached 93.7 per cent during the second half of August, making Benidorm the best-performing destination in the Comunitat Valenciana. The figures from hotel association HOSBEC also suggest that the busy summer season could continue into September. Confirmed bookings for the first half of the month have already reached 90.7 per cent, compared with a regional forecast of 87.4 per cent. The strong figures are welcome news for Benidorm’s tourism industry, supporting hotels, restaurants, bars and
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FEATURE - LOCAL NEWS
93.7 per cent during the second half of August.
other businesses. British tourists continue to play a particularly important role, accounting for 32.5 per cent of Benidorm’s visitors. Spanish holidaymakers make up a further 36.5 per cent. However, high occupancy does not necessarily mean higher profits for hotels. Operators are dealing with rising costs, with energy prices alone
reported to have increased by 46.5 per cent since 2021. Hotels are also facing significant investment costs as they renovate and upgrade properties. Despite those pressures, Benidorm is heading into September on a strong footing, with more than nine in 10 hotel rooms already expected to be occupied during the first half of the month.
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FEATURE
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Leave my inheritance to a charity. Testamentary freedom and taxation in Spain. AT our firm, we increasingly receive enquiries from people who, having no children or other forced heirs, have a very clear idea in mind: “I want to leave my inheritance to a charity.” This is a legitimate decision and, in principle, perfectly possible. However, it raises reasonable questions. Can this be done without limits? Will that organisation be taxed in the same way as an individual? In this week’s article, we examine what you should bear in mind, from both a civil and a tax perspective. Are there limits when it comes to leaving my inheritance to a charity? This depends, first of all, on the law applicable to the succession. If Spanish law applies, forced heirs, such as children, parents or a spouse, may condition your freedom to make a
will. You may leave part of your estate to a charity, such as the Red Cross or Cancer Research, but the forced heirship rights of your close relatives must always be respected. Other legal systems, however, may recognise greater freedom of disposal, with no equivalent forced heirship regime. This is the case, for instance, under the law of England and Wales, where the testator may, generally speaking, dispose of their estate freely. How is the receiving organisation taxed? Spanish Inheritance and Gift Tax taxes lucrative acquisitions obtained by individuals. Legal entities, such as a foundation or an association, fall outside its scope. This does not mean, however, that the acquisition is exempt from all taxation. Depending on the circumstances,
it could be subject to Corporate Income Tax or, if the entity is not resident in Spain, to Non-Resident Income Tax. Are there any tax benefits available for these types of organisations? Here, particular care is required. Law 49/2002 provides a special, favourable tax regime for foundations and associations declared of public benefit that meet certain requirements. This regime does not apply automatically. The entity must satisfy the relevant conditions and must also expressly opt into it through the appropriate tax registration procedure. When the beneficiary organisation is Spanish, this step tends to be relatively well known. When dealing with a charitable association or a foreign entity, matters can become more complicated.
What happens when the charity is based outside Spain? This is an increasingly common scenario among our clients, many of whom wish to benefit organisations from their countries of origin. To access the special tax regime, Spanish regulations require the entity to be resident in the EU or the EEA, with tax information exchange arrangements in place. We understand that, following Brexit, this could affect charities based in the United Kingdom, which may not automatically qualify for this favourable regime. It is also worth considering the legal form of the entity (foundation, charity, trust, etc.). This can prove decisive, since certain structures, such as the “Trust”, have no recognised equivalent under Spanish law.
ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS
Conclusion. Anyone considering “I want to leave my inheritance to a charity” can, in most cases, do so with peace of mind. However, it is advisable to review the testator’s family situation and the legal and tax nature of the beneficiary organisation, particularly where it is based abroad. At White-Baos Lawyers, we specialise in international succession planning. If you wish to proceed with confidence, do not hesitate to contact us. The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice but merely conveys information relating to legal issues.
Carlos Baos (Lawyer) White & Baos. Tel: +34 966 426 185 - info@white-baos.com - White & Baos - All Rights Reserved.
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Credit: Sanxenxo ayto
World’s biggest tortilla
World’s biggest Spanish tortilla.
CROWDS gathered in Sanxenxo, Galicia on Saturday, September 5, to watch a family-run egg company cook a six-metre Spanish omelette to raise money for charity. Family firm El Huevo de la Abuela used 17,000 eggs, 1,700 kilos of potatoes, 300 kilos of onion, 300 litres of oil and 30 kilos of salt to prepare the giant dish. A team of 72 people worked around the huge pan during the town’s onion fair and Santa Rosalia festivities. Portions were
served both with and without onion, catering to Spain’s long-running culinary debate over the traditional recipe. The most delicate moment of the event came when crews used a 75-tonne crane to turn the giant pan over. Officials described the maneuver as a high-precision task that went off without a hitch, avoiding the risk of turning the dish into scrambled eggs. Cooking finished around 14.15, opening the way for long queues to
form. Organisers distributed roughly 10,000 portions at €3 each, with all proceeds going to local charitable causes. The Melide-based egg producer previously cooked a giant tortilla in its hometown last year. Sanxenxo Town Hall thanked volunteers and sponsors for helping the event succeed. Portion sales generated substantial funds for charity, bringing an unusual spectacle to the coastal town.
SPANISH NEWS
Fake phonelines FACUA-Consumidores en Acción, the Spanish consumer group, has asked Spain’s consumer ministry to fine Ryanair after tests revealed the airline’s Spanish helplines never connect customers to a human agent. The consumer agency submitted its formal complaint to the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030 on September 3. Tests conducted on Ryanair’s listed Spanish customer service lines, 900 751 463 and 872 580 512, found that callers were routed through automated messages, directed to the airline’s mobile application or website, and automatically disconnected. Subsequent calls from the same number yielded identical automated responses without offering ac-
cess to a representative. FACUA contends this practice breaches Spanish consumer protection laws, which mandate that companies offer direct human assistance rather than relying solely on automated systems. Spanish regulations classify air transport as a basic service of general interest, placing stricter customer service duties on carriers operating within the country. Recent legislative updates further ban answering machines as the exclusive method for handling customer inquiries. The group has provided audio recordings of the test calls to the ministry, requesting a formal investigation and financial penalty. Ryanair has not issued a public response regarding the allegations. Credit: Hans Elmo - Shutterstock
14 10 - 16 September 2026
Passengers boarding a Ryanair flight.
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Hollywood sailing
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman race in Valencia.
speeds of more than 100km/h. The friendly contest ended with Reynolds claiming victory over Jackman, adding another chapter to their long-running on-screen and offscreen rivalry. Reynolds joked that beating Jackman was a “national pastime in Canada,” while Jackman praised the professional sailors for their skill and the incredible speed of
the boats. Their appearance attracted significant attention from fans gathered at Marina Port Valencia, with the Hollywood duo providing an extra dose of glamour to a major weekend of international sailing. The Valencia event is part of SailGP’s 2026 championship and marks the league’s debut in the city under a new threeyear agreement.
Hundreds evacuated
Credit: AjuntamentdeToledo
HOLLYWOOD stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman brought their famous rivalry to Valencia over the weekend, swapping the big screen for highspeed sailing on Spain’s Mediterranean waters. The pair, best known for their playful Deadpool and Wolverine feud, took part in a special SailGP challenge ahead of the Spain Sail Grand Prix at Marina Port Valencia on Saturday, September 5. Reynolds represented Canada’s NorthStar SailGP team, while Australian-born Jackman joined the BONDS Flying Roos. The actors are also co-owners of the Australian team, alongside team CEO and Olympic champion Tom Slingsby. Acting as guest “sixth sailors,” Reynolds and Jackman experienced the extraordinary speed of SailGP’s F50 catamarans, which can reach
Credit: Instagram/SailGP
SPANISH NEWS
Fire in Toledo hotel forces mass evacuation.
WHAT should have been a peaceful night’s sleep turned into a frightening early-morning evacuation for more than 600 people staying at a well-known hotel in Toledo after a fire broke out inside the building. The blaze began at around 1.30am on Thursday, September 3, in an electrical panel in a service area on the first floor of the Hotel Beatriz Toledo. As the alarm sounded, 608 guests and staff were forced to leave the building while emergency crews tackled the fire. Smoke spread across parts of the first and second floors, while the hotel’s electricity supply was also affected. Around 20 rooms closest to the fire were temporarily taken out of use. Firefighters worked to ventilate the
building and carried out safety checks before guests were gradually allowed back inside shortly before 4.30am. Despite the scale of the incident and the frightening circumstances, there were no reported injuries or cases of smoke inhalation. Several emergency services attended, including firefighters, National Police, Local Police, Civil Protection volunteers and medical teams, who remained on standby in case anyone needed treatment. Guests whose rooms had been affected were moved to alternative accommodation within the hotel while the damaged area was dealt with.The cause of the fire is being investigated, although initial reports indicate that it originated in the hotel’s electrical installation.
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Family skips €7,000 bill A FAMILY has left a Galician restaurant without paying a €7,000 bill after a five-year-old’s birthday party. Owner Carol Sao Luis had been expecting 60 guests at her restaurant,
Tropicaña, in Culleredo, near A Coruña, but more than 80 turned up for seafood, grilled meat, an open bar and bouncy castles for the children. A €500 deposit had been paid weeks earlier, but when it came
time to settle up after the party, the mother organising it said she had argued with her partner over money and would transfer the amount overnight instead. The transfer never arrived. After days of unanswered WhatsApp messages, the mother replied and said she would only pay what she thought was fair, claiming the restaurant had not delivered everything agreed. Sao Luis said a dining chair was left broken behind them in the aftermath, and that she had already photographed the family’s number plate as they drove off. She reported the case to the Guardia Civil, who have since located the woman. Officers say the incident could amount to fraud. “Seven thousand euros is a huge amount of money for a business like ours,” Sao Luis said. “Situations like this cannot be overlooked.”
SPANISH NEWS
Parkour wrecks Alhambra pillar FIVE people filmed a parkour stunt inside Granada’s Alhambra that ended with a protected archaeological pillar destroyed and a repair bill of around €12,000. Security cameras captured the group entering the restricted Casa del Mufti area, beside the Palace of Charles V, at 4.09pm on Friday, August Police are hunting the culprits who 28, and leaving just caused the damage. 17 minutes later. One of them knocked over the an- damage at around €12,000. cient pillar while performing jumps, The Patronato filed a formal comaccording to the Patronato de la Al- plaint with the National Police on hambra y Generalife, which manag- Monday, August 31, handing over es the site. the CCTV footage as evidence. Other visitors spotted what was The destruction is made far more happening and quickly alerted serious by the fact that the Alhamstaff, but the group had already left bra, one of Spain’s most visited by the time footage was reviewed. monuments, is a UNESCO World Alhambra architects assessed the Heritage Site.
Credit: Mistervlad / Shutterstock
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SPANISH NEWS
Credit: AEMPS
Children’s mouthwash recall
May be contaminated with harmful bacteria.
PARENTS across Spain are being urged to check their bathroom cabinets after health authorities ordered the urgent recall of several batches of a popular children’s mouthwash over fears it may be contaminated with harmful bacteria. Mouthwash is often used to help protect young teeth from decay, making the latest safety warning particularly unsettling for parents who believed they were doing the right thing. Spain’s Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) has withdrawn several batches of FluorKIN Infantil Fresa Enjuague Bucal after detecting contamination with Burkholderia cepacia, a bacterium that can pose a risk to people with weakened immune systems. The af-
fected batch numbers are 26B01, 26B04, 26B05 and 26B06, with the final three linked to promotional two-for-one packs. The manufacturer has been instructed to stop selling the product, remove affected stock from pharmacies and shops, and recover any bottles already distributed. Parents are advised to stop using the recalled mouthwash immediately and check the batch number on any bottles they have at home. Any affected products should be returned to the place of purchase. Although the bacteria is unlikely to cause problems for healthy people, officials say the recall is a precaution to protect vulnerable children and ensure product safety.
SPAIN could lose a huge number of local shops over the next decade as ageing business owners retire without younger people willing to take over. The country’s retail sector lost 9,201 self-employed workers in the past year, despite overall autónomo numbers increasing by around 60,000. Former CEC vice-president Carlos Moreno-Figueroa has warned that up to half of existing shops could disappear within 10 years because of the lack of generational succession. More than 13,000 shops closed during 2025, leaving Spain with 718,311 retail businesses, the lowest figure since 2009. Rising rents, electricity, labour costs, bureaucracy and competition from major chains and online retailers are already putting pressure on in-
Photo credit: Irina WS/Shutterstock
High street shops disappearing
Shops could disappear within 10 years.
dependent businesses. However, retirement presents a different problem because even viable shops can disappear if nobody takes over. UPTA estimates that more than 600,000 autónomos will retire within five years, representing almost one in six self-employed workers. Running a small shop is also increasingly expensive. UPTA estimates average fixed monthly costs of around €2,980 for a
self-employed shopkeeper with rented premises and no employees. The consequences could be particularly severe in smaller towns and rural communities, where local shops may provide essential services with no nearby replacement. The coming decade could therefore determine whether many of Spain’s traditional neighbourhood businesses survive.
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
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FEATURE - SPANISH NEWS
Brown bear incidents TWO brown bears have been involved in separate incidents in Palacios del Sil, Leon, within days of each other, highlighting the risks facing Spain’s recovering bear population. One was found dead in the mountains around Salientes on August 31. Its body was transferred to the Centro de Recuperación de Animales Silvestres in Valladolid, where a post-mortem will establish the cause of death. No explanation is currently known. A second bear was struck by a vehicle near the Ondinas reservoir on the C-631. It escaped after the collision and its condition remains unknown. Attempts are being made to locate it and determine whether it was injured. Both cases occurred in an area
Photo credit: Juan Carlos Munoz/Shutterstock
18 10 - 16 September 2026
Spain has two main brown bear populations.
where brown bears are regularly present. Spain has two main brown bear populations, in the Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees. The Cantabrian population has recovered from decades of decline and now numbers several hundred animals, although the species remains en-
dangered. The growing population is also bringing bears into closer contact with roads, villages and agricultural areas. A 2026 study recorded 73 visits by Cantabrian bears to human settlements between 2009 and 2021, with young animals and summer months particularly represented.
Ryanair’s 2027 fare warning Credit: AlinaL / Shutterstock
Millions of British and Irish holidaymakers could face costlier flights to Spain.
RYANAIR has cut its passenger target for the year ahead and warned that flights to Spain could become significantly more expensive in 2027 if fuel prices stay high. The airline, Europe’s biggest and the leading carrier on routes between Spain and the UK and Ireland, carried 22.2 million passengers in August, up 6 per cent on last year. But it has trimmed its full-year forecast from 216 million to 214 million passengers, choosing to keep winter capacity flat rather than grow it, to limit its exposure to expensive, unhedged jet fuel.
Ryanair has secured 80 per cent of its winter fuel at around $67 (€58) a barrel, far below the roughly $140 (€121) a barrel it costs on the open market. The move is expected to cut winter losses by up to €100 million. The airline warned that if oil prices remain high through summer 2027, short-haul fares across Europe will rise materially, and that rivals with less fuel hedged could struggle to keep flying through the winter. Ryanair still expects passenger numbers on its Spain-heavy summer schedule to grow 5 per cent next year.
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Denmark’s Viking silver hoard Credit: Nordjyske Museer
Credit: Electric Picnic
Soaked but unstoppable
EUROPRESS
Electric Picnic 2026.
A BIT of rain can’t dampen the Irish spirit, but what about buckets of it? Electric Picnic, Ireland’s biggest music festival, returned for the last weekend of August, and this year’s event quickly became a mud bath after torrential rain lashed the site. The heavens opened early into the weekend long festival, turning the concert grounds into a muddy slip and slide. Many festival-goers were drenched before they’d even set up their tent. Surviving the wind and rain at Electric Picnic has become a rite of passage, of sorts, as bad weather is almost always guaranteed. However, the conditions this year were so severe that many fans took to social media calling for the festival to be moved earlier in the summer
to avoid the worst of Ireland’s unpredictable late-August weather. Wet weather wasn’t the only issue at this year’s Electric Picnic. Overwhelmingly large crowds also caused issues, with the 80,000 in attendance proving hard to control. Legendary DJ Arman van Helden was scheduled to perform at one of the festivals smaller venues, but his set was cut short due to fears of overcrowding. The following night, attendees were sent text alerts to avoid the Electric Arena tent where DJ Duke Dumont was performing. Despite these issues, Electric Picnic 2026 was still a massive hit. Such a success, in fact, that pre-sale tickets for the 2027 edition sold out just days later.
Some of the 18.5 kilos of Viking silver unearthed in a garden in Rebild, Denmark.
A DANISH homeowner has unearthed the country’s largest ever Viking silver hoard while digging a new patio in their garden. The find was made in Re-
bild, North Jutland, and announced by archaeologists at Nordjyske Museer on Monday, August 31. In total, around 700 silver objects weigh-
ing 18.5 kilograms were recovered, including ingots, arm rings, a small Thor’s hammer and 47 coins. Roughly a third stayed inside the original clay pot, while the rest was scattered through the soil. The finder, who has asked to stay anonymous, said a spade struck something odd after half an hour of digging. Thinking it was iron or old pottery, they switched to digging by hand. “It turned out to be the biggest surprise of my life,” the finder said. Coins, including Anglo-Saxon pennies from King Edward the Elder’s reign, date the hoard to the 900s. One silver bar even carries a runic inscription possibly reading “hutu,” which researchers believe could be a name, an owner’s mark or another meaningful symbol from the period. The hoard is nearly three times the size of Denmark’s previous record, the 6.5-kilogram Terslev hoard. It has now been declared danefæ, or crown property, and sent to the National Museum before an expected display at the Viking Museum Fyrkat.
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FEATURE - SPANISH NEWS
Lidl’s rival expands
LEAPY LEE - SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT
Credit: Lestertair/Shutterstock
22 10 - 16 September 2026
Dangerous dogs, holiday disasters HORRIFIC photos once again this week of a young baby savagely mauled by a pet dog and yet another adult death from one of these dangerous creatures. How long is it going to be until the authorities realise that a number of canine breeds are actually no more adaptable to the living conditions of human beings than many dangerous wild animals? There have been 17 deaths in the UK due to dog attacks and 8,750 incidents in the last year alone! These are horrendous figures and the most tragic fact of all is that the majority of victims were extremely young. Many of these tots, now scarred for life, have had their whole futures altered beyond redemption, simply because the two-legged animal that should be the most responsible of all, deems for some unknown reason to allow unpredictable, potentially life destroying four legged canines to share their homes. When are they going to recognise the devastation these animals are actually capable of? I do actually shudder when I see photos, or postings of dangerous dog breeds, cuddling up, or licking the faces (not too hygienic anyway!) of babies of sometimes a few months old. One, split second vicious snap and those faces could be gone forever. When are the Government going to see some sense and completely ban unsafe breeds altogether? I await the slings and arrows of DDO’s
(dangerous dog owners) with my usual full metal jock strap firmly in place! Contrary to the outcry that accompanied it, I did have some sympathy for the British pensioner who reported that her Benidorm holiday was ruined because her hotel had ‘too many Spaniards in it’. I can’t comment on her remarks about the general rudeness of the other guests, although I am fully aware that certain cultures may appear somewhat more abrasive and a little more obtrusive than the British are generally exposed to! Some years ago, when the children were a great deal younger, I decided to take them all to a hotel in Mallorca over the Christmas period. After checking in and exploring our ‘special Christmas treat’, it didn’t take long to realise that the hotel was full of Germans. In fact, the whole of the Christmas festivities was geared toward them. The shows (including the comedian) were German orientated. The food had a distinct German flavour, the bars were empty by 10pm and breakfast was served at some ungodly hour around sunrise. Not quite the Christmas celebration the family or Dad were actually looking for! Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmasil.com.
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
The strategy focuses on neighbourhood proximity.
SPANISH supermarket chain Covirán expanded its network with 14 openings, refurbishments, and store transformations across nine autonomous communities during July and August. The expansion covers Andalucia, Murcia, Navarra, Extremadura, Madrid, Aragon, Comunidad Valenciana, Cataluña, and Pais Vasco. Andalucia accounted for four projects, while Murcia and Cataluña each had two. Rather than simply opening new supermarkets, Covirán focused on transforming existing shops into modern formats, including Covirán Origen and Covirán Plus stores. Its cooperative model allows independent entrepreneurs, family businesses, and existing owners to operate within the network, incorporating new entrepreneurs, transfers, and generational succession. This strategy focuses on neighbourhood proximity, enabling smaller shops to modernise while retaining their local role. Meanwhile, Lidl opened four Spanish supermarkets during July and August, investing almost €30 million, with plans for around 50 new stores in Spain during 2026. Covirán’s smaller-scale expansion demonstrates that competition in Spain’s grocery sector extends beyond the largest chains.
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EUROPRESS
10 - 16 September 2026
23
Zombie crossing Fearless 10-year-old Photo credit: Manuel arias duran/Shutterstock
The proposal follows a campaign in Sassari.
PEOPLE crossing roads in Italy could face a €75 fine for using a smartphone or other electronic device while crossing if proposed changes to the country’s road rules become law. The measure would target pedestrians distracted by phones, tablets, and similar devices when entering or crossing a road. It would not ban phone use while simply walking along the pavement, and emergency use would be
exempt. The proposed rules would also require pedestrians to check that approaching drivers have seen them and are stopping before they cross, while preventing sudden movements that could leave motorists unable to react. The proposal follows a campaign in Sassari, Sardinia, dubbed the “Smartphone Zombie” initiative, after police found pedestrians crossing while fo-
DINERS seeking an 18-course meal inside Salmon Eye, the floating steel orb in Norway’s Hardangerfjord, now require an invitation to secure a table. Iris, the Michelin-starred restaurant near Rosendal, announced that public bookings are closed for the year. Owners at Eide Fjordbruk paused dining operations to rework the concept, affecting 13 staff members. While the visitor centre remains open to the public, the
cused on their screens. Spain already has penalties for dangerous distracted crossing, with fines reaching €80 or €200 depending on the circumstances. The DGT has also warned that one in three pedestrians crosses while looking at their mobile. Italy’s €75 penalty is not yet law. Consultation continues until Sunday, September 13, with the final legislation potentially changing before implementation.
Credit: @DirectBrut X A 10-YEAR-OLD boy has been praised for his bravery after escaping a burning farmhouse in eastern France on Friday, September 4. Flames rapidly engulfed the 19th-century timber property in the village of Poizat-Lalleyriat shortly before 6.30pm. Trapped inside alone as thick smoke filled the building and ground-floor exits were Farm house burns down in minutes. cut off, Milo called emergency services before jumping from a first-floor Medical staff at Oyonnax hospital window to safety. examined Milo, who escaped with Once on the ground, the young boy only minor injuries requiring two forced open a door to free the fami- stitches to his fingers. ly’s two trapped dogs and retrieved a The historic farmhouse was comfew belongings, including his favour- pletely destroyed, leaving the family ite soft toy. without any possessions. Relatives Haut-Bugey mayor Samuel Becot are currently housing the family, praised Milo’s exceptional courage whilst local commune officials have and composure during the ordeal. prepared council accommodation Fire crews, comprising 32 firefight- and requested donations of essential ers and 13 vehicles from nearby items from the public. stations, arrived to battle the blaze Investigators are working to deterfollowing multiple calls from neigh- mine the cause of the fire, which rebours. mains unknown.
Salmon eye restaurant restaurant has shifted to an exclusive, invite-only format. Previously, guests travelled from Rosendal on electric boats, stopping for a welcome bite before reaching the 1,256-tonne structure. Danish chef Anika Madsen created a menu focused on farmed salmon,
local shellfish, underused marine species, fungi, and algae. The establishment earned a Michelin star in 2024, a year after opening, and gained global media recognition. Despite its critical acclaim, the restaurant operated at a loss. Managing director Sondre Eide stated that the family’s
ambition extends beyond culinary awards, aiming to drive action towards sustainable seafood production. Madsen and restaurant manager Nico Danielsen departed early in 2026, returning to Copenhagen after three years in western Norway. Iris has not named a new head chef or announced when public bookings might resume. For now, the dining room is reserved exclusively for guests chosen directly by the team.
24 10 - 16 September 2026 NORWAY is considering tighter rules for smart glasses equipped with cameras, microphones and artificial intelligence because of concerns that people could be recorded without realising it. The government is examining whether certain functions should
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EUROPRESS
Meta glasses fear grows
be banned, particularly facial recognition of people in public, and is creating an expert group to advise on regulating smart glasses, earbuds
and similar devices. Camera-equipped glasses, including Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, can take photographs and record video with-
out the wearer holding a phone. Their appearance as ordinary eyewear has raised concerns that people nearby may not recognise when they are being recorded. Although some models have recording indicator lights, critics question whether these provide sufficient warning. The devices have acquired the nickname “pervert glasses” because of fears they could be used to secretly film strangers, particularly women. Norway is not proposing an immediate blanket ban. The focus is on regulating what the technology can do and how it is used, with facial recognition in public specifically raised as a possible prohibition. Schools, workplaces and other organisations may also introduce re-
Photo credit: Alexander Fedosov/shutterstock
Norway is not proposing an immediate blanket ban.
strictions. The issue extends beyond Norway. Australia’s online safety regulator has called for clearer recording indicators and automatic face blurring, while some venues have al-
ready imposed restrictions. Norway’s expert group will examine possible rules before the government decides whether new legislation is needed.
FINANCE 6.1% Tourism boom 25
euroweeklynews.com • 10 - 16 September 2026
STAT OF WEEK
The European unemployment rate was 6.1 per cent in July, stable compared with the month before but up from 6 per cent in July 2025, according to Eurostat.
Pricey postcodes
Toothbrush tech
EVERY parent wants the best education for their child. Those who can’t afford pricey public schools may instead choose to reside in the catchment zone for top state schools. However, parents could be paying the price for a top education a different way. Prices vary nationwide, but a study by estate agent Yopa found houses near top state secondary schools cost, on average, an extra £40,000, with postcode privilege bringing a hefty price tag.
TECHNOLOGICAL innovation has now reached the toothbrush. Dyson recently launched a £420 toothbrush that reportedly flosses, sprays mouthwash and films live footage while cleaning your teeth. It costs over 250 per cent more than Oral-B’s most expensive electric model.
Minimum wage
THE Spanish Government plans to negotiate a further increase in the national minimum wage (SMI) for 2027, with inflation expected to play a key role. As prices have risen sharply, ministers argue wages must protect workers’ purchasing power. The current SMI is €1,221 gross per month across 14 payments.
Race weekend
AHEAD of Formula 1’s arrival in Madrid for its newest Grand Prix, hotels in the Spanish capital are filling up. ACHM Hotels by Mariott reports occupancy for the race weekend has reached 90 per cent. The firm also anticipates a revenue increase of 175 per cent per available room.
House shares
HOUSE sharing was once an ideal money-saving tactic for young people, but for many it’s now the only affordable option. According to Fotocasa, the average age of people sharing accommodation in Spain is 31. Living independently has become unaffordable, even for many full-time workers.
Lost trust funds
UK CHILD trust fund providers are facing scrutiny as authorities attempt to reunite young people with lost savings. Around 760,000 accounts, worth a combined £1.5 billion, remain unclaimed. Many holders may not realise an account was set up for them under the 2002–2011 government scheme.
THIS year is expected to be one of Spain’s strongest years for its tourism market. Despite initial fears that geopolitical conflicts, jet-fuel shortages and rising costs would affect the industry, Spain is on track to welcome 100 million tourists. In the first half of 2026, Spain has so far received 58.1 million international tourists, a 4.6 per cent increase compared with 2025, showing steady growth year-round. The start of summer saw a wave of visitors arrive. In July alone, the first month of the peak season, Spain registered 11.5 million visitors, also a 4.6 per cent year-on-year increase. The United Kingdom accounts for the most visitors, with 11.5 million Brits travelling to Spain so far in 2026, followed by France (7.2 million) and Germany (6.9 million). Coastal destinations were the overwhelming favourite. Cataluña registered the highest tour-
Credit: Goodwin Mallorca, Shutterstock
BUSINESS EXTRA
Spain remains a popular holiday destination.
ist numbers so far this year (11.9 million), but the Balearic islands surpassed it in popularity in July, recording 22.3 per cent of total visitors. Andalucia also experienced gains of 9.5 per cent to remain the third most visited autonomous community. It’s not just the number of tourists that is forecasting a success-
ful year, but the amount each visitor is spending while on holiday. Tourist spending has increased at a faster rate than arrivals. According to the INE, average daily spending rose by 3.7 per cent to €218. So far, total spending has reached approximately €82 billion, €18.2 million of which was generated in July.
Solar savings SOLAR panels may seem redundant in the UK where there’s more rain than shine, but new studies find households can save money even on the gloomiest days. According to Recharge Renewable’s findings, annual savings range from £440 in Scotland, £460 in the north of England and up to £610 in the south. Potential savings have only increased in recent years as conflicts in Ukraine
and the Middle East put pressure on electricity prices. Solar panel installation comes with a big upfront cost of around £7,500, according to MoneySavingExpert. com, who say it can take up to 10 years to break even. But as a consequence of climbing prices, a record number of British households have made the switch to renewable energy. In 2025, renewables generated a record 52.5 per
cent of the UK’s electricity. This trend continued into 2026 with solar power system sales up 80 per cent in the first quarter.
SHEIN IPO
Inflation up
Renfe recovers
SHEIN recently made its anticipated debut on the Hong Kong market, but its initial public offering proved to be underwhelming. The company sold approximately 280 million shares in its IPO. Shares sold below the €5.45 asking price at €5.35, and raised a total of €1.5 billion dollars. Funds raised through the IPO will be spent on technological improvements and global expansion. Following the IPO, Shein was valued at €22.89 billion, €86 million less than anticipated, and much lower than the €86 billion private valuation the company received in 2020.
EUROZONE inflation has surged to 3.3 per cent, its highest level since September 2023, driven largely by a sharp rise in energy costs. The renewed price pressure is complicating the European Central Bank’s efforts to lower inflation to its 2 per cent target and could prompt further interest-rate rises. Spain stands out among the major economies, with inflation reaching 4.5 per cent, significantly above Germany, France and Italy, highlighting how unevenly the energy shock is affecting Europe.
DESPITE recent concerns surrounding unfair competition in high-speed rail, state-owned company Renfe returned to profitability in 2025 for the first time since 2019. The trainline consolidated a net profit of €60.2 million after posting losses of €2.9 million in 2024. A 19 per cent increase in ticket sales revenue helped achieve this. In fact, Renfe generated €1.4 billion in ticket sales through highspeed and long-distance services. Renfe also benefited from strong demand and efficient management.
Solar panel popularity rises and energy prices skyrocket.
Plan scrapped A €1 BILLION plan to maintain state roads has been scrapped after industry group ACEX challenged the tender rules. Industry representatives argue the new rules would drive prices down too aggressively, making contracts less viable and potentially undermining road quality and safety. The Transport Ministry has paused the contracts while the dispute is reviewed, delaying planned maintenance across thousands of kilometres of roads until at least 2027.
AI regulation
BIG-TECH companies could be scared off future investment in Spain as a draft royal decree signals the implementation of restrictive regulations. The draft proposes that data centres demonstrate 80 per cent renewable energy consumption hourly, rather than on an annual basis, with strict correlation between megawatts consumed and renewable energy generated. Spain has seen big investment since the AI-boom. In March, Amazon announced plans to invest a further €33.7 billion to expand AI infrastructure. However, these potential regulations could cause an economic loss of €53.6 to €60.3 billion and drive companies to take their business to Portugal instead.
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Closing Prices 7 September
Net
3I Group.....................................2.822,00............2.831,00......... 2.801,18........... 39,2K Admiral Group.............................3.844,0..............3.848,0........... 3.816,0............ 6,87K Airtel Africa................................. 349,00...............350,00............344,60........... 33,97K Anglo American...........................4.140,0..............4.141,0........... 4.107,0........... 90,89K Antofagasta................................3.909,00............3.914,00......... 3.877,00.............21K Associated British Foods.............2.048,0..............2.050,0........... 2.034,0........... 20,63K AstraZeneca...............................12.202,0............12.202,0......... 12.100,0.......... 66,05K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 512,60...............515,20............512,20........... 33,86K Aviva........................................... 724,80...............725,60............721,80.......... 295,13K B M European Value Retail.......... 226,40...............227,00............222,00.......... 158,86K BAE Systems..............................1.980,00............1.983,00......... 1.970,00.......... 94,98K Barclays...................................... 493,20...............496,15............491,90.......... 811,68K Barratt Redrow............................ 308,60...............309,20............304,40.......... 228,92K Beazley.......................................1.299,50............1.299,50......... 1.298,00........... 1,91K Berkeley......................................3.444,0..............3.456,0........... 3.340,0............ 1,85K BP............................................... 542,30...............544,10............535,00............2,27M British American Tobacco...........4.100,0..............4.118,0........... 4.076,0........... 97,14K BT Group.................................... 202,50...............203,80............201,70.......... 345,02K Bunzl...........................................2.674,0..............2.678,0........... 2.662,0............ 15,3K Centrica....................................... 148,75...............149,25............147,21.......... 438,04K Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.512,0..............4.548,0........... 4.488,0............ 24,2K Compass...................................... 30,79.................30,95..............30,71............ 33,28K ConvaTec Group......................... 227,20...............227,80............226,00.......... 272,96K Croda Intl....................................3.313,0..............3.319,0........... 3.287,0............. 9,3K DCC.............................................6.333,2..............6.340,0........... 6.330,0........... 19,38K Diageo.........................................1.674,0..............1.675,5........... 1.666,5.......... 111,36K Diploma.....................................7.180,00............7.190,00......... 7.135,00........... 4,99K EasyJet........................................ 672,60...............674,40............671,80.......... 143,19K Entain.......................................... 529,66...............530,20............528,60.......... 120,69K Experian......................................2.838,6..............2.911,0........... 2.833,0.......... 215,43K F&C Invest.................................. 344,40...............344,40............343,20........... 70,97K Frasers........................................ 788,00...............794,50............785,00............ 2,82K Fresnillo.....................................3.165,00............3.170,00......... 3.098,00.......... 38,22K Glencore...................................... 601,70...............603,07............597,80.............1,6M GSK plc......................................1.865,00............1.869,00......... 1.856,50......... 149,05K HALEON...................................... 358,80...............359,10............356,00.......... 651,58K Halma..........................................3.638,0..............3.640,0........... 3.600,0........... 27,86K Hikma Pharma...........................1.600,00............1.604,00......... 1.594,33........... 3,84K Hiscox........................................1.889,00............1.892,00......... 1.882,00.......... 21,79K Howden Joinery.......................... 774,00...............775,50............771,50........... 21,86K HSBC.........................................1.571,20............1.573,60......... 1.562,60...........2,36M IAG.............................................. 428,30...............430,70............426,60.......... 423,01K ICG PLC.....................................1.952,00............1.956,00......... 1.941,00.......... 12,69K IMI PLC......................................3.042,00............3.044,00......... 3.028,00........... 6,75K Imperial Brands..........................2.502,00............2.522,00......... 2.485,00.......... 54,13K Informa....................................... 920,20...............925,40............917,80.......... 190,26K InterContinental........................... 161,1.................161,1..............159,8............. 4,32K Intertek........................................5.850,0..............5.850,0........... 5.845,1............ 9,89K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
J Sainsbury................................. 336,30...............336,70............334,40.......... 333,87K JD Sports Fashion........................ 82,76.................83,10..............82,38........... 264,81K Kingfisher.................................... 301,20...............301,50............296,50.......... 158,03K Land Securities........................... 661,50...............662,00............658,00........... 30,18K Legal & General.......................... 292,50...............292,70............290,90.......... 435,68K Lloyds Banking........................... 112,00...............112,60............111,65............2,87M London Stock Exchange..............8.812,0..............8.884,0........... 8.730,0........... 16,41K Londonmetric Property............... 184,74...............184,80............183,82.......... 355,79K M&G........................................... 350,30...............352,00............349,30.......... 179,72K Marks & Spencer........................ 386,60...............388,20............385,50........... 50,09K Melrose Industries...................... 506,39...............506,80............497,40.......... 105,69K Mondi.......................................... 846,80...............848,60............839,80........... 17,05K National Grid..............................1.147,50............1.149,50......... 1.137,04......... 192,08K NatWest Group........................... 696,60...............699,00............693,80.......... 285,33K Next...........................................15.255,0............15.300,0......... 15.205,0........... 4,88K Pearson......................................1.184,00............1.187,50......... 1.169,00.......... 47,64K Pershing Square........................3.894,18............3.898,00......... 3.872,00........... 4,56K Persimmon.................................1.156,0..............1.156,0........... 1.137,5............ 44,5K Prudential...................................1.043,06............1.048,00......... 1.039,99......... 329,51K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.106,0..............5.118,0........... 5.054,0........... 37,12K Relx............................................2.653,00............2.685,00......... 2.647,00......... 118,06K Rentokil....................................... 351,77...............356,10............351,00.......... 118,31K Rightmove.................................. 505,40...............506,20............502,80........... 17,53K Rio Tinto PLC..............................7.546,0..............7.563,0........... 7.510,0........... 55,62K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.491,00............1.492,92......... 1.476,40.......... 244,4K Sage...........................................1.069,50............1.078,08......... 1.068,50.......... 52,63K Schroders.................................... 584,5.................585,0..............584,5............. 9,27K Scottish Mortgage......................1.510,50............1.513,00......... 1.504,00......... 209,48K Segro.......................................... 947,50...............949,40............941,60.......... 113,72K Severn Trent...............................2.984,0..............2.990,0........... 2.960,0............ 15,7K Shell............................................3.437,5..............3.446,5........... 3.416,0.......... 299,99K Smith & Nephew........................1.051,50............1.056,50......... 1.050,00.......... 70,89K Smiths Group.............................2.560,00............2.561,00......... 2.544,00.......... 30,87K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.915,0..............6.920,0........... 6.855,0............ 1,31K SSE............................................2.364,00............2.375,00......... 2.349,00.......... 33,69K Standard Chartered....................2.237,00............2.248,00......... 2.227,00......... 170,47K Standard Life............................... 923,00...............926,50............919,29........... 84,77K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,04.................83,14..............82,22........... 385,02K Tesco.......................................... 469,00...............470,00............465,70.......... 317,79K Unilever.......................................4.730,5..............4.736,5........... 4.696,5........... 76,02K Unite........................................... 497,20...............498,60............494,60........... 10,69K United Utilities............................1.357,00............1.362,00......... 1.350,00.......... 19,42K Vistry Group................................ 283,60...............289,00............282,20........... 30,26K Vodafone Group PLC................. 124,041.............125,150..........123,250...........5,58M Weir Group................................2.692,00............2.698,00......... 2.678,00.......... 12,44K Whitbread...................................2.402,0..............2.402,0........... 2.379,0........... 10,18K WPP............................................ 382,80...............386,80............382,80.......... 143,87K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 168,31...............169,75............165,80............3,01M Amazon.com............................... 258,90...............259,50............256,00...........26,89M American Express....................... 329,82...............335,00............328,33............2,17M Amgen........................................ 444,12...............445,82............438,08............1,84M Apple........................................... 328,21...............330,81............324,11...........37,23M Boeing......................................... 210,51...............211,06............205,83............6,26M Caterpillar.................................... 800,14...............803,92............781,49............2,35M Chevron...................................... 211,32...............213,20............211,17............6,67M Cisco........................................... 108,61...............109,67............107,60...........14,22M Coca-Cola..................................... 88,81.................89,23..............88,01............13,77M Goldman Sachs..........................1.037,93............1.039,83......... 1.012,50...........1,68M Home Depot................................ 318,07...............320,44............315,21............3,38M Honeywell................................... 207,63...............209,29............204,91............2,49M IBM............................................. 234,71...............238,29............232,82............4,38M J&J............................................. 278,43...............278,89............273,15............5,94M JPMorgan................................... 362,06...............362,85............356,39............5,42M McDonald’s................................. 259,63...............262,09............256,12............4,58M Merck&Co................................... 152,34...............152,80............148,90.............6,5M Microsoft.................................... 510,12...............515,65............500,80...........24,13M Nike.............................................. 38,77.................38,93..............37,95.............29,6M NVIDIA........................................ 228,45...............230,40............224,75..........134,68M P&G............................................ 146,92...............148,22............146,50............6,11M Salesforce Inc............................. 264,43...............268,27............261,60...........16,04M Sherwin-Williams........................ 332,26...............336,07............327,78............1,58M The Travelers.............................. 374,34...............376,57............366,95............1,63M UnitedHealth............................... 400,94...............405,16............395,30............5,49M Verizon......................................... 50,59.................50,82..............50,15.............. 18M Visa A.......................................... 378,75...............382,21............376,86............3,87M Walmart...................................... 108,42...............109,35............106,02...........25,54M Walt Disney................................. 107,16...............109,20............106,90............6,24M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 7 September
Company
Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Tantech Holdings Ltd....................................... 66,94 %..........................2,16M Sunpower Inc................................................... 58,24 %........................292,83M Mint................................................................. 49,93 %........................147,51M Antelope Enterprise Holdings........................... 37,20 %.........................21,88M Cypherpunk Tech............................................. 35,12 %.........................18,42M Generation....................................................... 32,72 %........................124,27M bioAffinity Technologies................................... 31,08 %.........................19,25M Focus Universal................................................ 29,88 %........................393,31K Canaan............................................................. 27,95 %.........................27,54M Gelteq............................................................... 27,14 %.........................70,09M Duluth Holdings Inc......................................... 23,20 %..........................3,33M Zooz Power...................................................... 22,62 %........................196,48K Top Wealth Holding......................................... 21,95 %.........................13,27M 17 Education Tech........................................... 21,49 %..........................2,79M Aterian............................................................. 21,41 %..........................1,68M GCL Global Holdings........................................ 20,11 %........................469,03K BTCS................................................................ 20,00 %..........................3,53M Nutriband......................................................... 19,79 %........................170,53K Cosmos Health................................................. 18,72 %..........................8,55M M - Million Dollars
Company
Change Net / % Volume Most Declined Intercont..........................................................-89,59 %.........................24,64M Advasa Holdings..............................................-80,23 %........................136,63M Ultragenyx........................................................-44,03 %.........................27,16M Netcapital.........................................................-38,97 %...........................8,6M Research Alliance III........................................-37,37 %........................834,02K AlphaTON Capital.............................................-35,75 %.........................18,57M Medicus Pharma..............................................-34,63 %.........................96,66M Aptevo Therapeutics........................................-34,23 %..........................1,69M Connect Biopharma Holdings...........................-30,07 %..........................3,76M BioRestorative Therapies.................................-28,76 %..........................3,51M Polestar Automotive Holding A........................-27,52 %..........................1,26M Sono NV...........................................................-27,08 %........................305,61K Liberty Defense Holdings.................................-26,96 %........................186,12K IM Cannabis.....................................................-26,67 %........................132,48K Li Bang International........................................-25,57 %........................300,18K CURRENC........................................................-25,19 %..........................5,73M Stardust Power................................................-24,95 %..........................15,6M Viomi Technology............................................-23,60 %..........................5,45M U Power...........................................................-21,35 %........................465,53K M - Million Dollars
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FINANCE
Amazon sued
A 21-STATE coalition has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing it of manipulating its paid advertising system. For a top spot on Amazon’s commercial site, companies submit anonymous bids. Amazon is accused of submitting fake second-place bids to artificially drive up prices, earning more than €17 billion in revenue.
Hit and miss
BEFORE retiring from professional tennis, champion Rafa Nadal launched Canra 2022, an athletic performance supplement brand. However, the business is failing to match his court success, closing its second fiscal year in 2025 with €2.21 million in losses and pushing accumulated losses past €5 million.
Beer breakdown EU COUNTRIES produced an enormous amount of beer in 2025. According to official Eurostat figures, the EU brewed a combined 34.4 billion litres of beer - 32.3 billion litres of which contained more than 0.5 per cent alcohol. Germany took first place for beer production, brewing 7.4 billion litres and accounting for 21.6 per cent of the EU’s total output. The top five list was completed by France with 2.1 billion litres, Ne-
Credit: Anton Vierietin, Shutterstock
BUSINESS EXTRA
10 - 16 September 2026
Spain, EU’s second biggest beer producer in 2025.
Tourist spending SINCE the pandemic forced the Spanish economy into crisis, tourism spending has successfully outpaced inflation. In 2019, before the Covid pandemic, average tourism spending reached €1,209. That has since risen by €370 per person to €1,579. This spending increase is not due to lengthier stays. The average stay of fo-
reign nationals was 7.5 days in 2019, and has only fallen to 7.2 days in July 2026. Many see this as a sign for Spain to focus less on mass-tourism, and instead prioritise the quality of tourism, putting less pressure on public infrastructure while still generating increased spending in hotel, hospitality and retail sectors.
therlands with 2.4 billion, Poland with 3.5 billion and Spain as the second biggest beer producer with 5.3 billion litres. Beer continues to be big business in Spain. Its 2025 beer exports, primarily to China, Cuba, the UK, Andorra and Portugal, totalled €328 million. Comparatively, Spain imported €432 million in beer during the same period, making it the country’s 205th most imported product. A harvest season defined by severe heatwaves and droughts could put future beer production at risk. Farmers report average wheat yields are down 13 per cent, while barley, the most important grain for beer production, is 26 per cent below the average. At the very least, brewers may be forced to change recipes to signature drinks.
27
Takeover delayed FOLLOWING a lengthy battle between US investment firms, easyJet recently announced its sale to Apollo for £5.7 billion, offering £7.15 per share. However, the airline has since delayed the acquisition until early 2027 to allow time for discussions with aviation regulators and ensure corporate conditions are met.
August unemployment SPAIN’S unemployment rose by 44,419 people in August, the sharpest increase for the month since 2019. The country also lost 162,840 jobs as seasonal tourism and education contracts ended. Despite the setback, total unemployment remains at its lowest August level since 2007, while employment is up by nearly 680,000 over the year.
Photo Credit: Benissa Town Hall
THE coastal town of Benissa is preparing for a memorable weekend of classic pop and romantic ballads as it plays host to a special charity concert series on Saturday, September 19. Bringing music lovers together for an important cause, the double-header event will directly benefit L’Associació Contra el Benissa hosts weekend charity tribute concerts Càncer de Benissa, raising supporting local cancer initiatives. vital funds to support local cancer patients, families, and community care initiatives. media, calling on residents from Benissa The musical celebration will kick off on and neighbouring towns across the MaSeptember 19 with a high-energy tribute rina Alta to turn out in force for the cause. to Nino Bravo. Fans can expect emoAll proceeds from the night will go totional live renditions of timeless anthems wards raising vital funds to support local including Un Beso y Una Flor, Libre, and neighbours battling cancer, as well as America, America, giving attendees the their families. The association frequently chance to relive the soaring vocals and participates in local events, and recently orchestral arrangements that defined participated in World Cancer Day with a Spanish pop in the 1970s. workshop designed for awareness, solLocal performer Sebastian Cuenca idarity, and support for local residents shared details of the initiative on social and visitors.
Disco dancing THOSE in the Costa Blanca hub of Benidorm should get ready to dust off their platform shoes and dig out the sequins as the Benidorm Disco Festival returns to Spain’s most sun-soaked coastline for four nonstop days of dance floor nostalgia. Taking place at the four-star Gran Hotel Bali from Wednesday, September 16, to Saturday, September 19, this vibrant event gathers music lovers and dance enthusiasts for an unforgettable journey through three decades of iconic tracks. Organised by Discos for Grown Ups, the festival is created specifically for those who love the electrifying energy of classic clubbing
Photo Credit: Gran Hotel Bali
Charity concert
SCENE
COSTA BLANCA NORTH
A four-day retro music festival brings classic clubbing to Benidorm.
without the late-night stress. Running across four high-energy days this September, the event transforms the iconic skyscraper resort into a haven of 70s soul, 80s synth pop, and 90s dance floor classics. Each evening at the Gran Hotel Bali brings a distinct theme to keep partygoers moving. The festival kicks off outdoors on the hotel terrace with a Fancy Dress Opening Party complete with confetti, light shows, dancers, and full retro dress-up.
On subsequent nights, guests can enjoy a poolside Silent Disco White Party where attendees groove under UV lights, as well as live stage shows featuring vocal performances, choreographed dancers, and a full theatrical tribute to dance music culture. Combining Mediterranean sunshine with timeless dance anthems, the Benidorm Disco Festival stands out as one of the region’s premier retro music celebrations.
Puppy pilates FITNESS enthusiasts However, the real highand animal lovers lights are the delightacross the Costa ful interruptions as Blanca are invitcurious puppies ed to unroll their wander between mats for an mats, offering tail adorable cause wags, cuddles, as El Campello and plenty of hosts a special funny moments Puppy Pilates throughout the charity event, fun workout. taking place on All funds raised Photo Credit: Jametlene Reskp / Unsplash Saturday, Septemfrom entry tickets will ber 12. go directly towards El Campello hosts charity Combining well- puppy pilates supporting local essential veterinary ness, relaxation, animal rescue. care, vaccinations, and animal welfare, special formula feedthis unique class offers participants ing for orphaned litters, and day-tothe opportunity to refine their core day shelter supplies. strength while socialising with enWhether you are a seasoned Piergetic, rescue puppies looking for lates practitioner or a complete betheir forever homes. ginner, this solidarity event promises In a warm, welcoming environment, a heartwarming blend of gentle exthe session pairs traditional, low-im- ercise and direct community impact. pact Pilates exercises with the joyful Spaces are limited, so those who presence of free-roaming pups. Led are interested in participating are enby a qualified instructor, the class fo- couraged to reserve their spot on the cuses on controlled breathing, flexi- organisation’s official website, las bility, and gentle body conditioning. reinasdelbiberon.org/eventos.
SOCIALSCENE II euroweeklynews.com
10 - 16 September 2026
Photo Credit: La Colina / Facebook
Melodies & memories
Rowan and Adam perform retro classics at La Colina Restaurant.
RETRO music lovers in Moraira are in for a fantastic treat on Saturday, September 12, as La Colina Restaurant prepares to host a vibrant evening of live entertainment, featuring the popular local performing duo Rowan and Adam. The dynamic duo, who will take the stage from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, will deliver two full hours of live music packed with classic hits from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. Rowan and Adam invite diners to sing along to all their favourite retro tunes, ensuring a funfilled night of nostalgia where you simply cannot go wrong, no matter your music taste. The event will also offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the exceptional dining that La Colina is
known for across Moraira. Recognised as a premier steak restaurant, La Colina combines top-tier cuisine, generous portions, and warm hospitality, making it a beloved destination for both local residents and international tourists. La Colina, located at Carrer Mostoles, 33, in Moraira, will provide the ideal setting for a memorable night out with family, friends, and neighbours. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant at T. 711 082 598. Whether you are a fan of timeless 60s pop, groovy 70s disco, or iconic 80s rock and synth anthems, assemble your friend group, secure your table, and get ready for an unforgettable evening of fantastic dining and nostalgic tunes.
FOR expatriates and international residents living in Spain’s northern Costa Blanca, building a strong local network is an essential part of enjoying life abroad. On Thursday, September 17, U3A Vall del Pop is opening its doors for one of its most popular social gatherings: the Members Coffee Morning. The event will take place at Blanca Bikes, in the Costa Blanca area of Parcent, starting at 11.00am. The venue, known for its welcoming atmosphere and cyclist-friendly café, will provide an ideal setting for residents to gather over fresh coffee, delicious pastries, or a relaxed breakfast. The primary goal of the morning is simple: to catch up with familiar faces and welcome new members into the fold. However, aside from that, the gathering also
Photo Credit: Fahmi Fakhrudin / Unsplash
Retiree rendezvous
U3A Vall del Pop hosts a social coffee morning in Parcent.
serves as an important operational hub for the association. Attendees have the opportunity to speak directly with group leaders, register for upcoming social outings, and book or pay for fu-
ture trips and activities. U3A Vall del Pop, based in the Jalon Valley area of the Costa Blanca, is part of the broader University of the Third Age (U3A) movement, formed in 2006. The U3A is a self-help organisation created for retired and semi-retired individuals who wish to share learning, outdoor activities, and social experiences. The coffee morning offers an informal gateway for anyone looking to get more involved in local community life.
EWN 29
SPAIN’S WINE LEGACY MARTHA ARDILA, SOMMELIER AT MARTHA’S VINEYARD MORAIRA.
AFTER THE HARVEST: WHEN THE REAL MAGIC BEGINS AFTER the last grapes have been picked, the baskets emptied and the vineyards suddenly becoming quiet; for Spanish winemakers, harvest is far from the end. In many ways, it is only the beginning. The freshly harvested grapes arrive at the winery and the clock starts ticking. They are sorted carefully, destemmed when appropriate and either pressed immediately or sent into tanks for maceration and fermentation. For whites, gentle pressing and cool handling help preserve the delicate aromas and freshness that define wines such as Albariño or Godello. For reds, the skins become essential: they provide colour, tannins and much of the wine’s character. Then comes fermentation - the moment when grape juice becomes wine. Yeasts transform sugar into alcohol while producing heat and
aromas. Winemakers monitor temperatures, densities and aromas constantly. With red wines, they may pump the fermenting juice over the skins to encourage extraction. Once fermentation finishes, the young wine is separated from the solids and may undergo malolactic fermentation, softening its acidity. It can then be clarified, stabilised and bottled- or begin a much longer journey in oak. This is where Spain’s famous ageing traditions come into play: Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva wines may spend months or years developing in barrel and bottle. So when we raise a glass of Spanish wine, we should remember: the harvest is only the moment when the story changes hands from vineyard to cellar. We appreciate wine! Cheers!
martha@marthasvineyard.es marthasvineyard.es
euroweeklynews.com II SOCIALSCENE
30 EWN 10 - 16 September 2026
Photo Credit: Community of Valencia
IN September, the picturesque town of Benissa will host its Underwater and Coastal Clean-Up Day, a vital environmental initiative designed to protect the rich biodiversity of the Marina Alta region. Staged along the coastline around scenic hubs like Cala Les Bassetes, this community event gathers eco-conscious volunteers, local organisations, scuba divers, and ocean enthusiasts for a collective mission: preserving the beauty and ecological health of the local marine ecosystem. While Benissa is famous for its rocky coves, turquoise waters, and vibrant Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, these delicate habitats face persistent threats from marine debris, microplastics, and dis-
Volunteers gather in Benissa in September to clean coastlines and protect marine ecosystems.
carded fishing gear. The Clean-Up Day, taking place on Sunday, September 27, will feature hikers, families, and shore-based volunteers patrolling the beaches, coastal paths, and coastline coves to remove litter. The event doubles as an essential educational campaign. By highlighting the volume and nature of waste collected, the municipality and local environmental groups aim to foster sustainable hab-
its, reduce single-use plastics, and inspire long-term coastal stewardship among both residents and tourists. Through the dedication of shore teams and underwater volunteers, Benissa keeps its coastline pristine, protecting marine wildlife and ensuring its natural heritage endures for future generations. Those interested in taking part can register through T. 674 204 516 or, or via email at medi ambient@ajbenissa.es.
Photo Credit: Kawana Javea / Facebook
Trivia triumph
Coastal cleanup
THOSE looking for a fun way to test their trivia knowledge while making a meaningful difference in the local community are in luck. Residents in Javea can mark their calendars for Wednesday, September 16, as the weekly Cancer Care Javea Quiz returns to Kawana starting at 7.30pm. Whether you considWeekly charity quiz at Kawana supports local Costa er yourself a general Blanca cancer patients. knowledge master, a pop culture enthusiast, or simply enjoy a lively evening directly go towards supporting Canout with friends, this popular weekly cer Care Javea, a dedicated volevent promises a fantastic night of unteer organisation committed to friendly competition. Gathering local helping cancer patients and their residents, expatriates, and visitors families across the northern Costa to the charming Costa Blanca town, Blanca region. From funding spethe quiz will offer a warm and wel- cialist medical support and equipcoming atmosphere where teams ment to offering vital personal ascan put their thinking caps on and sistance and guidance, the charity battle it out for the grand prize. relies heavily on community gatherBeyond the trivia and lighthearted ings and events like these to provide rivalry, the best feature of the event resources, support, and information is its charitable heart. All proceeds to those on the Costa Blanca batraised throughout the evening will tling cancer.
Swing spectacle THE infectious rhythms of vintage jazz and Lindy Hop are set to light up the streets of Denia as the second edition of the Fishtail Swing Fest returns on Saturday, September 12, The festivities will kick off at midday in the bustling
Plaza Maria Hervas with an open Lindy Hop taster class, giving beginners and seasoned dancers the chance to learn iconic steps. By 1pm, the energy will ramp up with a live performance by the Fishtail All Stars, bringing classic swing melodies to life. As afternoon gives way to evening, the action will shift across town to the atmospheric Plaza del Consell for a 6pm open Solo Jazz dance workshop, encouraging participants to express themselves through classic solo routines. The celebration will then spill into the surrounding streets at 7pm as a vibrant marching band winds its way through Denia’s town centre, drawing crowds into a grand musical procession. The day-long festival will reach its grand finale back at Plaza Maria Hervas at 7.30pm with a headline concert by the Tropical Moon Jazz Band.
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Outer Banks - Season 5 THE Pogues final adventure in Outer Banks Season 5 is about more than finding treasure, it’s about avenging a friend they lost too soon. The character’s grief brings a darker tone to this season, and the audiences’ knowledge that this is the final chapter, the last chance for the Pogues to find gold, raises the stakes even t: Netflix edi Cr
further. Outer Banks truly goes out on a high note with 10 chaotic, emotional and action-packed episodes.
but it’s certainly gone a long-way to re-establish an underrated DC hero.
X
The Lanterns
IN just a handful of episodes, HBO Max has successfully rebooted the Green Lantern franchise, mercifully erasing the terrible 2011 film from memory. Admittedly, the Green Lantern lore is a little silly, but the more down to earth buddy-cop feel of the show helps ground the ridiculous in reality as John Stewart sets out to solve a small-town murder he suspects was committed by aliens. Lanterns isn’t the best super-hero show on streaming,
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Photo credit: Maria Clara on Google Reviews
A BRAZILIAN tourist dining with her family in the Italian resort of Riccione was left horrified after discovering an offensive message about her food on the restaurant receipt. Maria Clara had ordered scrambled eggs and asked for them to be cooked thoroughly. She says the waiter responded dismissively, and the eggs arrived still very soft, with salad included despite her request to leave it out. The family later Burn the eggs and spit in them. discovered a message entered into the restaurant’s ordering system teenager understood his mistake and instructing staff to burn the eggs and spit deserved another opportunity. in them. The message was reportedly The establishment subsequently written by a 17-year-old waiter. attracted further criticism after posting The family did not eat the eggs and social media content joking about the confronted the restaurant. A manager incident and asking followers whether apologised, offered to cancel the bill the waiter should return. and provide replacement food. There is Clara said she never wanted the no evidence that the food was actually teenager publicly targeted or fired. Her contaminated or that the instruction complaint centred on how she had been was followed. treated and the restaurant’s handling The waiter was initially suspended of the incident. After the story spread but was allowed to return three days online, she reportedly received racist later. The restaurant’s owner said the comments, insults and threats.
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Spit in scramblers
10 - 16 September 2026
Credit: HBO
EUROPRESS - FEATURE
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FEATURE
ASK THE OFFICER SARA ROMERA: THE AUTHOR OF INSIDE THE FLOATING CITY AND THE DISCERNING VOYAGER.
“My son came home from his first cruise ship contract engaged to a girl he met in the crew bar in week three. He is normally the most cautious man alive. What happened?”
Think of them as rose-tinted glasses, issued at the gangway, with strength increasing steadily over the length of the contract. By week three, the tint is noticeable. By month four, a man you had rated a solid four is starting to look like husband material. I have watched it happen to others, and I have certainly done it myself. Anyone who claims otherwise has either never worked a contract or is lying with great confidence. Giuseppe, for example. Giuseppe wore sunglasses indoors. He quoted Pitbull lyrics without irony. On land I would not have crossed a road for Giuseppe. But there were 10 weeks left on the contract, and my cabin was cold, and I understood. The cause is unglamorous. Recycled air, the same 11 faces at every meal, and a social world roughly the size of a
Credit: Maridav/Shutterstock
Ship goggles clouded his judgement.
Many people get engaged while on a cruise.
supermarket. Standards do not lower so much as recalibrate. The pool shrinks, and the rankings adjust accordingly. Less romance than arithmetic with flattering lighting. Then comes the morning after, which the ship has helpfully designed to be as public as possible. Running the length of
the vessel one deck below the waterline is a working corridor named after a motorway back in the company’s home country: the I-95 on American lines, the M1 on British ones. It carries laundry, provisions, engineers, dancers, and at seven in the morning, you, in last night’s clothes, praying it is empty.
It never is. The entire housekeeping team is on its way to roll call, and they have seen everything. Nobody says a word to your face. The glances in the crew lift do the talking. And if you are ever spotted walking off the ship together in port, congratulations. You are now engaged, emigrating, and expecting. So your son has not lost his mind. He has been living somewhere heightened, where nothing is private, and everything is amplified. Ask him again in six months, once the goggles have come off. Although occasionally, and I mean this sincerely, they never do. Those are the ones still married 30 years later, telling the story badly at parties. Sara Romera is a former cruise ship officer and the author of Inside the Floating City, The Discerning Voyager, and Love and Other Ports.
Have a cruise question? Write to contact@sararomera.com. Selected questions will be featured in upcoming columns.
NORA JOHNSON - BREAKING VIEWS NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
Spain’s scorching summer
THIS summer, Spain was hit by wildfires just as hard as neighbouring France. In early July, intense flames swept through an Almeria village. Later, fires in Avila and the Madrid region merged into Spain’s largest-ever blaze, consuming 77,000 hectares – more than France’s total. Another 9,300 burned near Valencia, while smoke from a July 24 fire reached central Madrid and threatened El Escorial’s 16th-century monastery before the wind changed direction. By July 26, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was warning of “complex hours ahead.” Cooler weather and lighter winds helped thousands of firefighters contain the flames, although around 100,000 people were evacuated or told to stay indoors. There was little political point-scoring, however. Madrid’s conservative government swiftly secured a national emergency declaration from Sánchez’s Socialist
administration, while the Interior Ministry coordinated regional forces, the army and volunteers. But weaknesses were exposed: only seven of the government’s 14 Canadairs were operational. Experts want more firebreaks, evacuation routes, hydrants and active forest management. Climate change, rural depopulation and years of reduced prevention spending have created a dangerous combination. Some 170,000 hectares have burned - more than six times last year’s figure. Though such blazes may be increasingly common, visitors can rest assured, however, that Spanish authorities work tirelessly to combat any threats to keep us all completely safe. And finally, just to add that your ongoing messages to my website below are greatly appreciated. Delighted both my column - and novels - resonate with you.
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl in Red’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
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Get creative with the classic french tip style.
glitter line beneath your tip, a metallic edge or a single statement nail can transform the whole look without making it feel overdone. You can also experiment with finishes. Combine glossy nude nails
WAKING up to greasy roots can make freshly washed hair feel like a distant memory. For anyone who finds their hair looking oily by morning, a few simple changes to the night-time routine can help keep it fresher for longer. It starts with the pillowcase. Hair picks up oils, sweat and product residue during the night, so regularly changing and washing pillowcases can make a noticeable difference. Silk or satin styles can also help reduce friction, particularly for delicate or textured hair.
with chrome tips, or try a pearlescent base for a soft, luminous effect. The best part? You do not need to abandon the timeless French tip. Just add a twist, and suddenly your go-to manicure feels brand new.
Beat the grease The way hair is washed matters too. Shampoo should be worked into the scalp rather than aggressively scrubbing the lengths. For particularly oily roots, a second gentle wash can help remove excess oil and styling residue. Conditioner, meanwhile, is best kept away from the scalp unless the product is specifically designed for it. Bedtime styling deserves attention as
DR MARCUS STEPHAN
Don’t have a cardiac arrest in Spain
PROVIDED I remain factually bureaucracy, Spain is in a correct, I can have an opinion. class of its own. So here it is: Spain needs to The European Resuscitaseriously rethink the way it tion Council (ERC), of which provides public access to Spain is a member, says defibrillators. that early CPR and, where Out-of-hospital cardiac appropriate, early defibrilarrest is common. Estimates lation are critical intervensuggest around 30,000 cases tions in determining whetha year in Spain, with survival er somebody survives. at roughly 7-10 per cent. FigIts 2025 guidelines go In cardiac arrest, ures for the UK are surprisingly further, recommending that hesitation is the similar, with one crucial differ- enemy. public-access automated ence. According to the London external defibrillators (AEDs) Ambulance Service, when a member of should be easily accessible and available the public uses a defibrillator to deliver 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Crua shock before the emergency services cially, the guidelines say no prior training arrive, survival can rise dramatically, to or certification is necessary. around 57 per cent. That raises an obviIn Murcia currently the only people alous question: Are we lowed to use a defibrillator are doctors. making it unnecesNot a good place to have a cardiac arrest. sarily difficult for orEvery minute matters dinary people to use When somebody collapses in cardiac a machine designed arrest, there is no time for bureaucracy. for ordinary people READ MORE And as we all know, when it comes to to use? Credit: eyematter / Shutterstock.com
THE French manicure is a classic for a reason. Clean, elegant and endlessly wearable, it goes with everything. But if your nails are starting to feel a little too predictable, it may be time to shake things up. The easiest update? Swap the white tips for colour. Try soft pastels for a subtle look, vibrant shades for an instant mood boost, or deep burgundy and navy for something more autumnal. You can even give every nail a different tip for a fun, mismatched finish. Feeling a little more adventurous? Play with the shape. Instead of a traditional curved tip, try a sharp V, diagonal stripe or ultra-thin micro-French. These small changes can make a familiar manicure look surprisingly modern. For extra impact, add a little sparkle. A fine
Credit: Body Art, Shutterstock
French tip fresh twist
HEALTH & BEAUTY
The information provided in this column is for educational and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Read more at euroweeklynews.com/author/mstephan/ well. Going to sleep with wet hair can increase friction and leave hair looking flat or unruly by morning. A loose plait or relaxed hairstyle can keep strands controlled without putting unnecessary tension on the roots. Finally, heavy oils and styling creams are best used sparingly before bed. Combined with frequent hair touching, they can quickly leave roots looking less than fresh.
Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock
Double wash to prevent greasy hair.
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Residencia & Rehabilitación Ciudad Patricia
international repatriation. We provide worldwide re-
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Neuro fitness FORGET simply working your muscles. Neuro fitness is all about giving your brain a workout too. By challenging your mind with new movements, patterns and skills, you can make exercise more stimulating while supporting coordination, balance and cognitive function. The idea is simple: your brain and body are constantly communicating. When you introduce unfamiliar movements, your brain has to pay attention, process information and work out how to respond. That could mean balancing on one leg, changing direction quickly, learning a new dance routine or performing exercises that require both sides of the body to work together. You don’t need specialist equipment or hours at the gym to get started. Try brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand, learning a new sequence
Worth the price Credit: MAYA LAB / Shutterstock
MORE than 22 years of experience in care, rehabilitation and quality of life on the Costa Blanca. Residencia Ciudad Patricia provides professional care and rehabilitation, always tailored to the individual needs and wishes of our guests. The goal is clear: to achieve and maintain the best possible quality of life. We offer different forms of accommodation and support. From rehabilitation after a hospital stay and temporary care to respite care, care holidays, as well as permanent residential care. People with physical limitations or neurological conditions, including dementia and Parkinson’s, are also welcome. You can also rely on us for
Neuro fitness exercises the body and the brain.
of dance steps, walking a different route, or adding balance exercises to your usual workout. Even simple coordination games can give your brain something new to focus on. The key is novelty. Once an activity becomes completely automatic, switch things up and introduce a
new challenge. Neuro fitness can make exercise feel more playful and engaging, while encouraging you to think as you move. So, next time you work out, don’t just ask how you can challenge your body. Ask how you can challenge your brain, too.
WHEN it comes to beauty, spending more does not always mean getting more. Plenty of affordable products do the job brilliantly, but a few areas justify paying extra. Foundation is one of them. A good-quality formula offers better coverage, a natural finish, and a shade matching your skin tone. Skincare is another smart splurge. Active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and peptides are worth paying for when properly formulated and packaged. Fragrance also benefits from higher spending. Pricier perfumes contain higher concentrations of fragrance oils, lasting longer with complex scents. Finally, quality makeup brushes apply products evenly, feel softer, and last years. Spend where quality matters and save elsewhere.
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FEATURE
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Community collection
Double honour
AROUND 520 families in Mijas are set to benefit from a €2,950 food donation organised by Soroptimist International Costa del Sol. The contribution provides 1,500 essential grocery items, including milk, rice, chickpeas, macaroni and sunflower oil, to households facing financial pressure. Distribution will take place through two local food banks operated by Cruz Roja and Nueva Cultura del Desarrollo. The relief effort was made possible through funding from the Helene & Bonnik Hansen Foundation, alongside contributions from Soroptimist members, collaborators and local partners. The foundation has a history of supporting charitable food initiatives in the area, helping maintain aid for vulnerable residents. Soroptimist International Costa del Sol raises funds and works with local partners to assist women and struggling families across the region. The latest delivery ensures vital supplies will reach hundreds of households.
COMMUNITY spirit on the Costa Blanca has earned double recognition for the Orihuela Costa and District branch of the Royal British Legion. The branch received two major honours from RBL Spain District North following strong fundraising and membership growth. Its Fallen Hero Award recognised its success supporting the Poppy Appeal, after raising €16,776.50. The appeal supports serving personnel, veterans and their families. The branch also claimed the Recruitment Kukri for the highest percentage increase in membership across Spain District North over the preceding 12 months. The success follows a turnaround after almost three years under district administration. Momentum has continued, with residents, businesses and community groups supporting activities and the Poppy Appeal. Branch member Katie Jane Matthews also took second place in the Lewis Shield for her work supporting the appeal.
Axarquia
Almeria
€3 thousand per night
La Vuelta in Vera
PROPERTY owners along Granada’s Costa Tropical are listing holiday apartments for up to €3,000 a night ahead of the solar eclipse on Monday, August 2, 2027. Luxury villas have topped €5,000. Southern Andalucia will experience nearly four minutes of darkness around 10.30am. Rental search platform Holidu reported that enquiries for Granada province spiked to 14 times normal levels following a recent partial eclipse. Local hoteliers remain pragmatic, noting that coastal hotels routinely fill every August. Trade leaders are prioritising long-standing Spanish summer visitors and considering protected tariffs to prevent families being priced out. Local authorities face logistical challenges. Traffic congestion at Cerro Gordo viewpoint during the recent partial eclipse forced emergency services to close roads. Councils must now develop crowd management and public safety strategies, while industry experts say much online traffic reflects curiosity rather than bookings.
LA VUELTA arrived in Vera, with hundreds gathering to watch the action unfold. Riders reached the start line at the historic Vera bullring to massive applause and cheers from supporters lining the streets. Just after 1pm, the peloton departed on what was set to be the race’s most gruelling stage. Cyclists faced 167 kilometres and 4,530 metres of accumulated elevation gain. Five high mountain passes stood between Vera and the Calar Alto finish: Alto de Cabecico, Alto de Cobdar, Collado Garcia, Alto de Velefique and Calar Alto, the most demanding, with over 1,000 metres of continuous elevation gain. The peloton powered through every obstacle, thrilling those watching in person and at home. Stage 12 showcased Vera’s passion for sport and natural scenery to millions worldwide. Slovakian cyclist Jakob Omrzel of Bahrain Victorious won the stage, while Enric Mas extended his lead by 27 seconds. Almeria’s Cristian Rodriguez Martin, riding for XDS Astana, also competed.
Mallorca
Costa Calida
Palma cat protest
Fair fervour
HUNDREDS of animal lovers took to the streets of Palma on September 6, calling for Spain’s animal welfare law to be properly enforced for community cats. The ‘Los Gatos Tienen Ley’ campaign began in Plaza de España and ended at Plaza de Cort, where organisers read a manifesto demanding greater action from local authorities. Campaigners say the issue is not a lack of legislation but uneven application of Law 7/2023 on the Protection of the Rights and Welfare of Animals. Under Article 39, councils must manage community cats and establish colony programmes, including recording colonies, sterilisation, veterinary care and microchipping. Volunteers can work alongside councils and animal protection groups, but campaigners say public authorities must provide the necessary resources. The Balearic Islands has 1,759 registered feline colonies, although the true figure is believed to be higher. Campaigners want existing rules enforced, not new legislation.
RESIDENTS and visitors enjoyed a triumphant opening weekend of the Murcia Feria 2026, with thousands filling the city’s iconic landmarks. The fair opened with a speech by local artist Walls alongside the Youth Orchestra of the Region of Murcia. The traditional heart of the festivities was the riverbank gardens, where the Huertos del Malecon welcomed crowds from early afternoon into the evening. Families and friends enjoyed Murcian cuisine, including paparajotes, zarangollo, morcillas and artisan wines, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and folk traditions. Moors and Christians festivities then took centre stage, with colourful decorations, parades and historical re-enactments transforming the historic centre into a medieval setting. Celebrations focused on Gran Via and Plaza del Cardenal Belluga. Live music and open-air entertainment also kept the city lively late into the night as the fair continues through September.
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PETS
10 - 16 September 2026
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SPONSORED BY
Houdini needs a pet sitter this Christmas PETS like Houdini like company on their terms, you know when they want to be with people, it’s ok. Otherwise, they’re pretty independent. Their owners like to know they are being fed and cared for and that someone is at home, hence the call for HouseSitMatch house sitters. How does it work? • It’s a fair exchange: Our house sitters don’t charge for their services. No money changes hands. They exchange their time and dedicated pet care for free accommodation in your home. • Safety is our priority: A mandatory triple ID and fraud check protocol keeps our entire community safe for house sitters and homeowners. • It’s a collaborative community: Our sitters are simply happy to help pets thrive while you’re away. Need a dog sitter for your own canine friend? Whether planning a long cruise or visiting family for the holidays, your pets prefer the comfort of their own home. Live-in sitters keep daily rou-
Could you care for Houdini during the holidays?
tines intact and your property secure - saving you money and sparing your furry best friend a stressful trip to the kennels. Next step: Joining our network is simple, secure, and collaborative: 1. Register at HouseSitMatch.com. 2. Create your profile with photos highlighting your property features and pets. 3. Match and explore with your perfect house sitter partner and start planning your next trip!
For a small annual registration fee (and zero ‘per-sit’ fees), you access a secure, vibrant community. Pets get to stay at home, routines intact, properties remain secure, and you get a budget-friendly way to travel. Why HouseSitMatch works We’re more than a platform - we’re a community. • Checked members - We verify both homeowners and sitters to keep the whole network safe. • Human support - Our team is on hand to guide you, answer questions, and help you. • Easy video tools - Use our secure video call features to meet sitters before confirming the match. “This site is definitely the best... Lamia and her team provide such a personal approach and will talk you through any problems.” - Kay Lattimore Claim your exclusive reader discount Register today at HouseSitMatch. com and use code WELCOME25 to receive 25 per cent off your first year.
Lamia Walker, Founder. Web: HouseSitMatch.com. Call: +44 (0)7772 142 742. Rated excellent on Trustpilot – 4.9/5 OUR homes are supposed to be safe havens, but for curious cats and playful dogs, they can be full of tempting hazards. From kitchen cupboards to dangling cables, a little pet-proofing can prevent a lot of trouble. Start by looking at your home from your pet’s perspective. Food is a major concern, so keep potentially harmful ingredients safely out of reach. Do not forget bins, which can be irresistible to a determined dog or cat. Houseplants can also cause problems. Some popular varieties are toxic to pets, so check whether a plant is safe before bringing it home. Keep medicines, cleaning products and chemicals securely stored, rather than relying on a closed cupboard that an especially clever pet could open. Puppies and kittens may see cables, small objects and children’s toys as tempting, chewable treats. Keep them tidy and consider using cable protectors where needed. Windows and balconies deserve attention too. Cats can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, while dogs may try
Pet-proof Credit: MVolodymyr / Shutterstock
Curious cats get everywhere.
to climb or jump if they spot something interesting outside. Finally, remember that pet-proofing is not a one-off job. As your pet grows, becomes more adventurous or develops
new habits, new risks can appear. A quick safety check every few months can help keep your four-legged family members out of harm’s way.
FACT
Subway commuters
IN Moscow, stray dogs have learned how to navigate the city’s complex underground subway system. They board the trains at specific suburban stations, ride in quiet cars, avoid crowded doors, and disembark at downtown stops where they know they can forage for food.
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CLASSIFIEDS APPLIANCE REPAIRS
WASHING MACHINE BROKEN? Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (Whatsapp) (351029).
BUY & SELL
THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA This association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THIS POPULAR ASSOCIATION, CALL the Secretary on 966 495 228. (295990)
CONSTRUCTION I BUY RECORDS 50s to the 90s. Best prices for good records. Tel: 622 750 117 / 962 851 809 (350562)
CHARITY EL CAMPELLO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY – Life and Family Sunday Service at 11am. Bilingual (English and Spanish) at San Bartolome, 35 (Bajo No. 6), El Campello. For more information visit https://www. christiancommunity-vidayfamilia.com/en/, email campellocc@gmail.com or call Juan Zúñiga – 686 203 183 (Spanish) or Jim Eaton – 680 594 134 (English). (233602) www.helpbenidorm.org and on Facebook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, particularly if you speak Spanish, and have a car (although this is not essential). Tel President 607 387 040. We are an English-speaking charity that assists residents and tourists of all nationalities in times of crisis. We meet every Thursday at 11am in Jose Llorca Social Centre C. Goya s/n. Benidorm. We loan out mobility and medical equipment including oxygen concentrators on a short-term basis. (288658)
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ELECTRICIAN MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es
HEALTH & BEAUTY WIGS-R-US Indoor market, Rincon De Loix Benidorm. Monday to Friday 10-4pm Sat 10-3pm scrunchies, ponytails, toppers, fascinators, headwear etc. Private appts after 3pm 681 049 502 (350468)
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INSURANCE
BENEFICIAL COVER - Your English Insurance Broker in Spain! We deal with names you recognise: Admiral, Generali, Zurich, Allianz, Caser and more. WE FIND THE BEST DEALS SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO All in English, with English assistance for claims. Get a quote for motor, home, funeral, business, or travel insurance, etc. Email: info@ beneficialcover.com | Tel & Whatsapp: 711 062 812 | Web: www.beneficialcover.com (350970) FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TOO) OR VISIT www.sosinsuranceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsuranceinspain. com (350918) MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)
MASSAGE
PIETER KREFT, certified Energy Healer, Paranormal Therapist and Coach. Practice in Spain. Website: https://www. pieterkrefthealer.nl (350978) HOUSE OF RELAX 5 Young Pretty Massages in call / out call in private apartment in Benidorm. Come and Relax. Tel. 671 431 214 (350790) NATURIST male gives relaxing massage for men & women €50. Private & discreet at my home in Javea. WhatsApp Rob on 613 831 380 (351096)
CAMPING
MEETING POINT 54 YEARS OLD, Spanish gentleman. Looking for a single woman, regardless of age or nationality to share life, laughter and good times together. Tlf 616 695 611 (351159) Contact us and have your business grow at +34 965 842 777
10 - 16 September 2026 METALWORK
MOTORS FOR SALE
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NURSING
ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy. com (313635)
Peter Zwaan Motorbikes, A+ Occasions Showroom, BMW F750GS, 750 cc, Yr 2019, 37.000kms, Euro 7.500 CostaBlancaMotorbikes.com (351063)
MOTORING WE are currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)
ROLLER SHUTTERS
REMOVALS/STORAGE BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 622 658 992 (350559) MAN & VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon Valley & surrounding area. Call/ WhatsApp 636 100 873 (351125)
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STRUCTURAL SURVEYS MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors. com (304516)
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BROKEN or unwanted gold jewellery, watches or coins. IMMEDIATE Cash Payment. Call Peter 617 550 016 (350329)
SITUATIONS VACANT FILIPINO COUPLE. We speak English fluently and are interested in learning Spanish. We are searching for any jobs in Restaurant, Groceries or taking care of the House or Villa we can do cleaning, gardening everything. Contact Nuria: 646 917 467 WhatsApp: +385 957 498 530 (351187)
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Contact us and have your business grow at +34 965 842 777 WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM
Contact us and have your business grow at +34 965 842 777
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MOTORING
ROAD TEST BY MARK SLACK
Isuzu DMAX Arctic AT35 – impressive and imposing
FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Isuzu DMAX Arctic AT35 Engine: 1.9-litre 164PS turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel developing 164PS and 360Nm torque @ 2000rpm. 3.5 tonnes towing capacity 1045 payload. Gears: Automatic Price: €80,998/£69,634 Performance: 0 to 100kph/62mph 13 seconds/Max speed 180kph/112 mph Economy: 9.1 litres per 100km/31 mpg combined driving (WLTP) Emissions: 235 g/km Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets differential lock, along with a traditional ladder chassis means it can cover rocky, rutted, waterlogged and muddy ground with ease. Good entry and departure
angles add to its capability along with an 865mm wading depth. Standard fare, as you would expect with such a vehicle, is comprehensive to say the least, with
wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bi-LED headlights with high beam assist, auto lights and wipers, powered and heated folding door mirrors, heated seats, leather upholstery, climate, keyless entry and start, reversing camera and a damped tailgate. Being a double-cab model, the rear load bay is not as large as many might imagine, that applies to all double cabs irrespective of manufacturer, but compensates with comfortable and roomy rear seating in the cab. The rear seats also fold flat and there’s under-seat storage. Power comes from a well-proven 1.9-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel developing 164PS, not that much when you consider the size of the vehicle, but crucially lots of low-down torque from just 2000 rpm. Although it takes a leisurely 13 seconds to the benchmark 100kph/62 mph it actually doesn’t feel like it’s struggling and is more than capable of maintaining the cut and thrust of everyday traffic. The AT35 is not only imposing, it’s impressive too, and if you want a standout, capable truck, and can afford the admittedly high price, you can guarantee some admiring glances.
Signals under review SPAIN’S Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) is preparing an update to road regulations affecting all drivers, including those on scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles. From October 1, changes to traffic lights will enhance safety for vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians. The key change concerns pedestrian crossings where traffic lights previously showed drivers a flashing amber light while pedestrians had a steady green signal. Under old regulations, drivers proceeded with
Photo Credit: Tsvetoslav Hristov / Unsplash
IF you’re looking for the ultimate in a road going and off-road capable truck, then Isuzu have a D-Max on steroids with the Arctic AT35. The Arctic truck idea was brought into a wider public consciousness when the former Top Gear team took a specially modified Toyota Hilux to the North Pole. Isuzu have created that idea in road going form with the D-Max Arctic AT35. It doesn’t just look the business either, it is extremely capable off road. It comes with an array of specially themed design touches that make it a stand out truck. This includes detailing on the sculptured front seats, external badging, 254x432mm/10x17 inches black alloy wheels with 98mm/35” all-terrain tyres, flared arches, Bilstein suspension and an array of special paint finishes. The latter surprisingly adds €837/£720 to the AT35 price, which at €80,998/£69,634 should arguably have been included as standard. There’s a selectable four-wheel-drive system controlled via a rotary dial on the dashboard and shift-on-the-fly between two and four-wheel-drive whilst at normal road speeds, although you do have to be stationary to select low range. DMAX’s rough terrain mode and rear
Spain updates traffic light phases and safety rules for road users.
caution while yielding to pedestrians. However, many drivers interpreted the flashing amber as
permission to proceed without yielding, exposing pedestrians to potential accidents from turning cars. Under the new update, simultaneous signals will be eliminated. A flashing amber light for motor vehicles can no longer coincide with a steady green walking signal. Instead, vehicle signals must show a steady red light first before transitioning, providing pedestrians with a clear, protected space to cross. According to DGT safety data, conflicting concurrent signals contributed to hundreds of pedestrian injuries and fatalities in urban areas in recent years. The measure aims to reduce road accidents and align Spain’s signalised intersections with international road safety practices by adjusting signal timing to eliminate ambiguity regarding who must stop.
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V16 Causing Accidents Automatic drivers to
gain manual rights
AUTOMATIC-ONLY drivers in Spain could soon be allowed to drive manual cars after a mere seven-hour course. Since 2019, anyone who passes their test in an automatic has been restricted to automatic vehicles under a rule known as code 78, with a fine of up to €200 for driving a manual car regardless. Under a new EU-driven reform, Spain must update its traffic rules by November 26, 2028, with the change taking effect on November 26, 2029. Drivers will then be able to remove the restriction by completing a seven-hour course in a manual car on public roads, instead of retaking their full practical exam. Sergio Olivera of the National Confederation of Driving Schools said the course will “eliminate that code 78 limitation.” More than 60 per cent of new cars sold in Spain are now automatic, and more and more learners are now opting in on the automatic-only driving test, which has a much higher success rate than the manual test. The DGT has not yet said how much the course will cost.
Credit: gnepphoto / Shutterstock
Automatic-only drivers in Spain may not be stuck with one gear forever.
EVERY late summer, Spanish motorways fill with family cars running south, carrying suitcases, bikes, and even washing machines lashed to their roofs. Most are driven by families returning home to Morocco and Algeria after holidays, a movement known as Operation Strait Crossing. Around 800,000 vehicles cross Spain for African ports each year during this rush. Many of these towering blue tarpaulins look dangerous, yet the Guardia Civil rarely issue fines. Three main checks determine if a fine aplies. The total height of the car and load must remain under four metres. Cargo must stay
SPAIN’S mandatory V16 emergency beacon has come under scrutiny after a fatal crash in Albacete raised concerns that the device may not always be visible to approaching motorists. The incident happened on August 13 on the N-322 near the Romica industrial estate. A SsangYong Rodius, more than 1.80 metres tall, had broken down and its driver placed a V16 beacon on the roof. A Guardia Civil officer believes the vehicle’s height may have prevented the warning light from being seen clearly. A Ford Kuga approaching from Barcelona towards Jaen reportedly only detected the stationary vehicle at the last moment. The driver swerved, crossed into the opposite lane and collided head-on with another car. Both drivers, reportedly aged over 60, died and
Overloaded cars within the width of the vehicle, and everything on top must be bound securely with proper ratchet straps rather than just string. Officers confirm that penalties are reserved for specific breaches rather than dramatic appearances, and intervene when safety is compromised. Unless a load fails the tape measure, the vehicle outline, or the strapping tests, patrols simply wave them on.
The driver placed a V16 beacon on the roof.
a woman was seriously injured. The Rodius driver had apparently already noticed a visibility problem and was attempting to reposition the beacon when the collision occurred. The
case has raised questions about replacing traditional warning triangles, which could be positioned further behind a vehicle. However, there is currently no official finding that the V16 caused the crash.
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SPORT
Credit: Newcastle United Women / X
Newcastle United Women’s Team train in Alicante.
Next generation boxing stars compete in La Nucia.
This is the fourth consecutive year that La Nucia has hosted the competition, which was first launched in 2017. Around 400 people are estimated to have taken part, with several teams also completing a train-
ing camp in the town before the tournament began. For spectators, the tournament was free to attend. Their enthusiastic support brough a great atmosphere to all five days of competition.
ALICANTE is strengthening its reputation as a leading base for international football pre-season training, welcoming clubs and sporting professionals from across Europe, South America and the Middle East this summer. The province has become an increasingly attractive choice for teams preparing for a demanding new campaign. A total of 11 sporting stays have taken place this summer, with visiting groups from Argentina, England, Qatar, Scotland and Spain. Argentina’s River Plate was among the most prominent arrivals, spending two weeks in the province combining training, recovery and technical work. English football has also made its mark, with clubs from the Premier League and
lower divisions choosing Alicante for their preparations, alongside professional refereeing groups. The appeal extends beyond men’s first teams, with women’s football and under-21 sides also using local facilities. For Alicante, this growing sporting presence is about far more than football. Sports tourism brings visitors beyond the traditional holiday season, supporting hotels, restaurants, transport providers and sports services. With reliable international connections, a strong hotel offering, quality training facilities and favourable summer weather, Alicante is well placed to turn pre-season football into a valuable yearround tourism opportunity.
Running in Oliva THE town of Oliva is set to host the XIV Gran Fondo Ciudad de Oliva on Sunday, October 4, with registration now open. Organised by CD L’Espenta, this popular athletics fixture serves as the 10th scoring round of the annual IX Circuit Safor Valldigna running series. Starting at 09.00, the main race covers a 12.2-kilometre course that begins and finishes within the municipality. Designed to cater for a wide spectrum of athletic abilities, the event welcomes runners across numerous adult categories ranging from Junior to Veteran G. Participants will benefit from comprehensive route support, including hydration stations positioned near the 4km and 8km marks, as well
Credit: ABB Photo/Shutterstock
THE next generation of boxing talent is steped into the ring in La Nucia this week, as 250 young fighters from 21 countries compete at the Boxam International 2026. Running from September 1 to September 5 at the Camilo Cano Pavilion, the tournament brought together male and female boxers in the under-19, under-17 and under-15 categories. With teams arriving from across Europe, Asia, the Americas and as far afield as New Zealand, the event has become an important fixture on the international youth boxing calendar. Spain was represented by more than 50 boxers, giving the home crowd plenty to support. For the under-17 competitors, the tournament also offered valuable preparation ahead of the European Championships in Budva, Montenegro, in October.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de La Nucia.
Boxing talent shines Training in paradise
Registration for the race is now open.
as snacks and refreshments at the finish line. Cloakroom services and municipal sports centre showers are also provided. Advance registration is priced at €7, available online via the Crono4Sports platform ( w w w. c r o n o 4 s p o r t s . com/evento/xiv-granfondo-ciudad-de-oliva) until midnight on Friday, October 2.
Runners may also register on the morning of the event for €10, though same-day entries will not be eligible for category trophies. Bringing together competitive athletes and local running enthusiasts, the Gran Fondo promises an engaging morning of road racing along the southern Valencian coastline.