Costa Blanca North 4 – 10 Jun 2026 Issue 2135

La Xara steps up

Village hosted the penultimate Circuit a Peu race

HUNDREDS of runners and spectators descended on La Xara at the weekend as the village hosted the penultimate race of the 2026 Circuit a Peu Marina Alta, one of the region’s most popular running series.

The 24th Volta a Peu La Xara brought a festive atmosphere to the streets, with families, athletes and supporters gathering throughout the afternoon and evening. The event began with children’s races before the main 9.4-kilometre contest got underway at 7pm.

Runners tackled a rou-

te that wound through the heart of La Xara before heading out towards the surrounding countryside and returning to the finish line on Avenida de L’Oest. As one of the final opportunities to earn points before the circuit concludes in Benissa next weekend, the race attracted strong competition from across the Marina Alta.

In the men’s race, Hicham Anfalous of CA Ondara took victory in a time of 31 minutes and nine seconds.

Toni Soler Llidó of Llebeig Xàbia finished second, while Olmo Velayos Hernando

completed the podium places.

The women’s event was won by Patricia Porter Sancho of SD Correcaminos, who crossed the line in 37 minutes and 40 seconds.

Alexandra Font i Botella secured second place, with Michelle Dixon taking third.

Beyond the racing, the event showcased the community spirit that has made the Circuit a Peu Marina Alta such a success. Local volunteers, sports clubs and residents helped create a welcoming atmosphere, while participants also had

the chance to win special prizes, including travel vouchers sponsored by ferry operator Baleària. With just one race remaining, attention now turns to Benissa, where the 2026 circuit champions will be crowned next weekend.

Employment boom

THE Marina Alta is enjoying one of its strongest jobs booms in almost two decades, with unemployment falling to its lowest level since 2008 ahead of the busy summer season. According to figures published by the Marina Alta Observatory using data from Spain’s Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, LABORA and the State Public Employment Service (SEPE), the comarca added 948 new Social Security contributors during April. The increase pushed the total number of registered workers in the Marina Alta to 65,548 - the highest

Credit:

figure ever recorded for the month of April in the region.

At the same time, unemployment dropped to 7,468 people, marking the lowest level seen since before the global financial crisis.

The strongest growth came from the hospitality

sector as hotels, bars, restaurants and tourism businesses hired extra staff ahead of summer. Coastal destinations including Denia, Javea, Calpe and Moraira all saw increased activity linked to Easter tourism and the early start of the holiday season.

Construction, retail and transport also recorded smaller rises in employment.

The Marina Alta Observatory report noted that the region has now seen 18 consecutive months of year-onyear employment growth, reflecting continued economic recovery and strong demand for tourism-related jobs across the Costa Blanca.

Beach safety

TEULADA-MORAIRA has officially activated its beach lifeguard and rescue service as the Costa Blanca prepares for another busy summer season.

The service is now operating across some of the municipality’s most popular beaches, including l’Ampolla, El Portet and Les Platgetes, helping to provide extra safety for both residents and the growing number of visitors expected over the coming months. Lifeguards will monitor swimming areas, respond to emergencies and carry out preventative safety work along the coastline.

The move comes as local authorities continue preparations for the peak tourist period, with beaches across the area already seeing increasing numbers of sunseekers. Teulada-Moraira has built a strong reputation for beach safety in recent years and has previously been recognised for the quality of its rescue and lifeguard services.

Operating hours vary throughout the season, with extended coverage expected during the busiest summer weeks. Sunbed services have also returned to some beaches as holidaymakers begin arriving in greater numbers.

The activation of the rescue service forms part of wider seasonal preparations taking place along the municipality’s

coastline, including beach maintenance and environmental management work designed to keep the area in top condition throughout the summer. With warmer temperatures arriving and visitor numbers rising, local officials are encouraging beachgoers to follow safety advice, pay attention to flag warnings and swim only in supervised areas.

Reviewing pension access

NEW SYSTEM INTRODUCED

THOUSANDS of workers in Spain could soon retire years earlier without losing part of their pension after changes confirmed by the country’s Social Security system expanded access to penalty-free early retirement for people living with certain disabilities and long-term illnesses. Under the updated rules, approved by Spain’s Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, eligible workers may retire from the age of 56 while still receiving 100 per cent of their pension.

The reform updates Royal Decree

1851/2009, extending the list of illnesses allowing early retirement linked to disabilities officially recognised at 45 per cent or higher. Government estimates suggest around 50,000 people could benefit. The change adds 11 conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, spinal cord injuries, chronic kidney disease stage five, systemic sclerosis and multiple system atrophy.

To qualify, workers must have a recognised disability level of at least 45 per cent connected to an approved

MILLIONS of people in Spain are using a government app called Mi Carpeta Ciudadana to avoid missing important administrative notifications, appointments and paperwork as public services move online. According to Spain’s Ministry for Digital Transformation and Public Administration, the app has surpassed 10 million downloads, becoming one of the country’s most widely used digital administration tools.

Mi Carpeta Ciudadana simplifies Spain’s fragmented bureaucracy by combining information from different public systems into a single platform. Instead of checking multiple websites for tax notices, Social Security updates, appointments or official procedures, users can access them through one app. Depending on user situations, it displays appointments, pending notifications, ongoing procedures, employment

illness, and have contributed to the Social Security system for at least 15 years, including five years while living with the disability. Unlike most early retirement in Spain, the system does not apply pension reduction coefficients. The government confirmed additional illnesses could be added in future following technical reviews. For many affected families, the reform could offer a major financial and personal relief after years of uncertainty around retirement and long term illness.

Evolving property dynamics

Managing financial risk

MORE landlords in Spain are tightening rental contracts and demanding stronger guarantees from tenants due to concerns over unpaid rent and lengthy eviction procedures. Housing experts say property owners worry about cases where tenants stop paying but remain in properties for months during legal processes.

The debate intensified after housing lawyer and economist María Piñeiro warned on TikTok that landlords could spend over a year without receiving rent if tenants default on payments. One measure appearing more frequently in rental agreements is an anti-default clause. According to Piñeiro, this allows non-paying tenants to potentially be added to debtor databases, affecting their future ability to rent properties or apply for loans.

Landlords across Spain are also turning to unpaid rent insurance policies. Policies covering missed payments, legal costs and eviction procedures are becoming more common. This situation is affecting how owners choose tenants, with some asking for stronger proof of income, permanent work contracts or guarantors. Others are moving away from traditional rentals to room rentals, which often provide more flexibility under Spanish law.

Piñeiro warned that landlords may lose less money by negotiating a quick exit directly with non-paying tenants rather than entering long court battles. The debate remains highly divisive, as tenant groups argue strong protections are necessary, while landlords say they carry growing financial risks.

Digital access shifts euroweeklynews.com

records, vehicle information, benefits and proper ty documents.

The app is popular among residents worried about missing electronic notifications or deadli nes. Foreign residents find the platform parti cularly useful, as many arrive expecting pa per letters and office visits, only to discover much of the system operates online. To use it, residents need digital identification like Cl@ve or certificado digital, which can ini tially be confusing.

Still, many users say the app redu ces stress by giving them a clearer overview of their administrative si tuation before appointments with accountants, lawyers or gestores.

Denia U3A 20th anniversary hog roast

WITH summer finally arriving in Marina Alta the first Los Arcos event was held on Friday May 22, when Denia U3A celebrated their 20th anniversary with a hog roast in the garden with The Entertainers. Richard Middleton, Denia U3A President, welcomed 100 members to this very special event and promised many more events, with the U3A continuing to grow and provide more opportunities for its members to have fun, see new things and take part in new skills.

Under clear blue skies, and the hog roasting, they settled down to another show from The Entertainers, who were offering many new songs. They had made their weeks of practice ensure a flawless performance, with The Dollies once again giving different choreography to each song and encouraging guests to be up and dancing.

At 3.00pm, on the dot, the roast hog was ready and they were able to enjoy the roast pork with a wide variety of salads, plentiful drinks and superb songs under blue skies. As befitting any anniversary celebration after lunch there were cakes - in all the flavours anyone

One hundred members attended this special event.

could ask for.

The second set was dancing time and popular songs followed each other.

A great afternoon full of fun and good food, with more to come from both The Entertainers and

U3A throughout the summer.

Taxi rule shake-up

RESIDENTS across the Valencian Community could soon notice changes to local transport services after regional authorities approved a new framework for taxis and app-based private hire vehicles such as Uber and Cabify.

The new rules are designed to end years of disputes between traditional taxi drivers and private hire operators while creating a clearer legal framework for both sectors.

One of the headline measures is the introduction of fines of up to €6,000 for the most serious breaches of the regulations. Authorities say the tougher penalties are intended to improve compliance and strengthen consumer protections.

The legislation also gives the Valencian government the power to temporarily suspend the issuing of new taxi licences for up to two years if necessary. Changes have also been made to ownership rules, allowing individuals to hold more transport authorisations than before.

The measures apply throughout the Valencian Community, including across Costa Blanca North, where demand for transport services typically surges during the summer season. Taxi groups have long argued that stronger regulation was needed, while private hire operators have warned against restrictions that could reduce transport options and affect jobs. For most passengers, there is unlikely to be any immediate change. However, officials say the new framework will provide clearer rules for transport operators and greater protections for customers across the region.

Resident debuts mystery novel

A COSTA BLANCA NORTH resident has fulfilled a lifelong ambition by publishing his first novel at the age of 77.

David Conway, who lives in the Javea area, has released The Quiet Deception, a psychological mystery that blends suspense, relationships and long-buried secrets against a backdrop stretching from Scotland to southern Spain.

The novel follows estranged friends Scott and Tom as they attempt to rebuild their lives, only to find themselves drawn into a web of lies, betrayal and menace. The story begins in Ayr and Glasgow before moving south to Gibraltar, the Costa del Sol and the Mar Menor, where the dramatic finale unfolds.

Conway says the book draws on decades of life experience, although the story itself is fictional. A former musician who performed with Midlands band The Huskies and later contri-

Teachers strike continues

buted guitar work to recordings by singer-songwriter Clifford T Ward, he spent many years working in a variety of roles across the UK before settling in Spain.

The author first began writing the novel in 2011, but a serious illness halted progress. After years away from the manuscript, he

Credit: DavidConway

THE education strike across the Valencian Community is set to continue, but unions say the next phase of action will look different as they attempt to maintain pressure while avoiding burnout among teachers.

returned to it in 2026 with renewed determination and completed the project.

Conway credits his move to Spain as the catalyst that reignited his ambition to write, describing the country as a long-time favourite after decades of holidays and travels with his wife Jackie.

After weeks of protests, demonstrations and walkouts, teaching unions and education platforms have agreed to keep the indefinite strike alive through what they describe as a more selective strategy. Rather than relying solely on continuous large-scale stoppages, organisers plan to focus on targeted actions designed to maximise impact while ‘rationing efforts’ among staff.

The dispute centres on long-running complaints over salaries, staffing levels, classroom ratios, bureaucracy and working conditions

in public education. Teachers have also called for greater investment in schools and additional support staff. Despite several rounds of negotiations, tensions remain high.

In recent days, teachers have continued demonstrations across the region, while some protesters in Valencia have even launched an indefinite camp outside key government buildings in an effort to force fresh talks with education officials. Union representatives insist the movement is far from over and say new coordinated actions will be announced in the coming weeks. They argue that adapting the strategy will allow the campaign to remain visible while giving exhausted teachers a chance to sustain the fight for longer-term changes in the education system.

Leading your future

STUDENTS from Lady Elizabeth School participated in an educational conference at Forbes House in Madrid. Organised by Forbes alongside International Schools Partnership (ISP) Schools Iberia, the event focused on future leadership and conscious decision-making.

Neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos addressed the audience, challenging conventional ideas about linear career trajectories. Castellanos emphasised that academic performance alone does not define education. Instead, she focused on physical

A REMARKABLE display of endurance and community spirit has delivered a €10,000 boost to one of Denia’s best-known disability support organisations.

The funds were presented to Condenados al Bordillo following the arrival of the eighth Angers–Cho-

well-being, mental focus and emotional equilibrium as critical foundations for effective learning.

Credit: Lady Elizabeth School

Representing their school community, pupils Lola S and Yuexin actively joined the analytical discussions. Lola questioned the panel about the physiological importance of sleep. In response, Castellanos delivered a detailed scientific explanation of how rest maintains

neurological health. The neuroscientist explained that sleep functions to clear waste products from the brain. Furthermore, proper rest solidifies memories within the hippocampus. This biological process makes sufficient sleep absolutely vital for pupils prior to examinations. The gathering successfully united educators, thought leaders and young people. It provided a platform for participants to contemplate modern learning methodologies and personal development while planning their next steps.

Cycling for a cause

let-Denia Solidarity Race, a charity cycling challenge that saw eight riders travel around 1,400 kilometres from central France to the Marina Alta. The demanding route was completed over nine stages, with the

cyclists reaching Denia on Saturday May 30 after days of riding through challenging conditions.

Hundreds of people gathered at IES Maria Ibars to welcome the team, creating a festive atmosphere as the riders crossed the finish line. Members of local cycling groups, volunteers, families and supporters joined the final stretch of the journey, turning the arrival into a celebration of solidarity and inclusion.

The €10,000 donation will help support adapted sports initiatives run by Condenados al Bordillo, including program-

mes that provide sporting opportunities for people with disabilities. The organisation has long worked to promote accessibility and participation through sport in Denia and the wider region. The biennial challenge has been taking place since 2011 through a partnership between the French association Entraid and Condenados al Bordillo. Over the years, it has become a symbol of friendship between the two communities while raising vital funds for inclusive projects on both sides of the border.

U3A helps Manada de Molly

AT the U3A meeting on Monday May 25, we welcomed the owner of La Manada de Molly, a horse, donkey and pony rescue in Altea. Their story began with Molly, a donkey, who lived alone by a dry riverbed with no shelter, covered in wounds from fly bites. Donkeys need company, so Donk soon joined her and it was love at first sight!

Another pony was found with serious injuries. She had been chipped and her name, too, was Mo lly, but unfortunately, she didn’t survive. This resulted in the Association being set up to help other mistreated animals and to day they have quite a herd.

Our members were shown a video of some of the donkeys and horses when they arrived at La Manada and after loving care and attention, how well the ani mals had recovered.

U3A Marina Baixa gave a donation on Monday but caring for a horse, even wi

thout specialist veterinary care, costs around €250 a month. If you feel you could help in any small way do look at their website or email them on lamanadademolly@ gmail.com.

U3A Marina Baixa helps a wide range of local charities. Come along to our next meeting on Monday June 22 at 11.00am in the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi.

Gymnasts triumph

CLUB CALPE is celebrating a successful outing at the Provincial Absolute Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships after its athletes secured a string of medals and qualification places for the upcoming regional finals.

The competition, held in Almussafes, brought together some of the province’s top rhythmic gymnasts, with Calpe’s representatives producing a series of impressive performances across several categories.

Among the club’s standout competitors were Marina Galstyan Keleyjan and Anna Maria Lebedeva, who both claimed provincial titles in their respective divisions. Victoria Ureche added to the medal tally with a runner-up finish, while Arina Ten also secured a provincial championship crown.

The strong results reflected months of preparation and dedication from the athletes and coaching team. Rhythmic gymnas-

tics demands a combination of technical skill, flexibility, coordination and artistic expression, making success at provincial level a notable achievement.

Calpe’s younger gymnasts also impressed during the event, demonstrating the depth of talent coming through the club’s ranks and underlining its growing reputation within the sport.

The performances have earned several athletes qualification places for the Autonómico championships, where the best gymnasts from across the Valencian Community will compete for regional honours and the chance to progress further.

For Club Gimnasia Calpe, the latest success marks another milestone in an already memorable season and provides plenty of optimism ahead of the next stage of competition.

RESIDENTS of Sanet i Negrals were startled overnight when a fire broke out near the municipality, sending flames and smoke into the night sky and prompting a rapid emergency response.

The blaze was reported during the early hours of Monday June 1, catching many locals off guard as fire crews rushed to the scene. The sight of the flames sparked concern among nearby residents, particularly as the fire appeared highly visible in the darkness.

Emergency services quickly mobilised to tackle the incident, working through the night to bring the situation under control. Their swift intervention helped prevent the fire from spreading further and reduced the risk to nearby homes and surrounding land.

Although the flames caused alarm, authorities confirmed that the fire was eventually contained without any major damage to residential properties. No serious injuries were

Fire scare

reported as a result of the incident.

The event served as a reminder of the heightened fire risk that can affect parts of the Marina Alta, especially as temperatures rise and vegetation becomes increasingly dry. Even relatively small fires can

appear dramatic at night, leading to understandable concern among residents. Locals praised the efforts of firefighters and emergency personnel, whose rapid response helped calm fears and prevent a more serious situation from developing.

A TOTAL of 26 men attended the latest U3A Calpe men’s lunch, making it one of the best-attended gatherings for some time.

The event took place at Restaurante La Terraza on Playa La Fossa and was described as a great success by those who attended. Members enjoyed an afternoon of food, drinks and conver-

Record turnout

sation, with organisers reporting that everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable time. The positive response has already led to plans for a return visit in the future.

The event also provided an opportunity for the group to welcome new faces. Two new members joined U3A Calpe on the day.

Following the success of the latest event, arrangements have already been made for the next lunch. It is scheduled to take place on Thursday June 25 in the Port area, with members meeting at 1pm for a 1.30pm start.

BENIDORM BAY will welcome rowing teams from across Spain on Saturday June 13 for the fourth National BCS/SCM Regatta, bringing together women who have survived breast cancer for one of the most emotional sporting events on the calendar. Ten of the country’s 11 clubs in this category are expected to compete in the event, organised by Anémona Marina Baixa and Benidorm Yacht Club. The regatta was presented by representatives from both organisations alongside Benidorm councillors Javier Jordá and Ángela Zaragozí.

The competition runs from June 12 to 14, although the main races will take place on Saturday June 13. Crews will row 700 metres with a turn in traditional Mediterranean llaüt boats.

Away from the racing, the

Survivors at sea

programme also includes training sessions, technical meetings, social activities and trips around the bay aboard golondrina boats.

María Botella, president of Anémona Marina Baixa, said the event is especially moving because every woman competing has experienced or is currently facing breast cancer.

Teams travelling to Benidorm include clubs from

Denia, Santa Pola, Alicante, Galicia and Malaga Province. Organisers noted it will be the first time a Galician team has travelled to the Mediterranean for this category of regatta. A second rowing event, the Trofeo L’Illa de Benidorm, will also debut during the weekend, with proceeds from both competitions supporting breast cancer research projects led by GEICAM.

Park party success

HUNDREDS of residents and visitors turned out for the latest edition of Vibra Els Poblets held on Saturday May 30, transforming the Parque de Miraflor into a lively celebration of local culture, food, music and community spirit. The event, organised by the Els Poblets Town Hall, brought together local businesses, associations and performers for a day designed to showcase everything the municipality has to offer. Families, friends and visitors filled the park throughout the day, enjoying a packed programme of activities aimed at all ages.

Live music proved to be one of the biggest attractions, with performances from local groups and musicians helping to create a festive atmosphere from morning until evening. Food stalls, workshops and family-friendly entertainment also helped draw

large crowds, while community organisations were given the chance to promote their work and connect with residents.

One of the standout features of this year’s event was its location in the Parque de Miraflor. The venue successfully accommodated the large turnout and has now established itself as a key setting for future community gatherings in the town. Organisers said the spacious park proved ideal for hosting activities aimed at a broad audience.

The strong attendance highlighted growing support for local initiatives and reinforced the importance of events that encourage social interaction while supporting businesses and associations across Els Poblets. Town officials described the day as a successful showcase of community life and local pride.

Mastiff mountain rescue

AN 80-KILO mastiff had to be airlifted to safety after collapsing from exhaustion during a mountain walk in the Vall de la Gallinera area of Alicante Province.

Emergency services were called shortly after 8.30am when the large dog became unable to continue just moments after setting off on the route with its owner. According to rescue reports, the mastiff could no longer move its legs, leaving the pair stranded in a mountainous area.

Due to the dog’s size and the difficult terrain, the Alicante Provincial Fire Consortium deployed a rescue helicopter along with members of the specialist GER rescue group. Crews reached the scene and carried out a delicate operation to evacuate both the animal and its owner from the hillside.

The mastiff and its ow-

ner were flown to the location where their vehicle was parked, allowing them to leave the area safely. The rescue operation lasted less than two hours, ending shortly after 10am. No injuries were reported.

After the rescue, the owner took the dog to a

veterinary clinic for assessment. The incident attracted attention on social media due to the unusual challenge of transporting such a large animal by helicopter. Rescue teams praised the coordinated effort, which ensured both owner and pet were brought back safely.

APPROXIMATELY one year ago, the Valencian Community approved Law 5/2025, introducing important amendments to regional taxation. What seemed distant then now approaches rapidly. Just days ago, on June 1, 2026, significant changes took effect that will impact anyone purchasing property, inheriting assets, or holding wealth in the region. These are not minor adjustments. They represent substantial fiscal relief across multiple tax categories. In this week’s article, we analyse in detail how these changes will affect property purchase taxes and other patrimonial operations in the Valencian Community. Reduction in property transfer taxes

The most immediate news for anyone purchasing a property in 2026 concerns the Tax on Pro-

perty Transfers (ITP) and Stamp Duty Tax (AJD). From June 1, 2026, the tax rate has decreased from 10 per cent to 9 per cent. For a property buyer, this represents direct and considerable savings that should not be overlooked.

Let us suppose a property is valued at €240,000. Under the previous 10 per cent rate, the ITP payable would amount to €24,000.

With the reduction to 9 per cent, the amount drops to €21,600.

That is, savings of €2,400 on a single transaction. Purchases over €1,000,000 are still taxed at 11 per cent.

This change applies exclusively to onerous property transfers of real estate assets. Additionally, the general rate for AJD has been reduced from 1.5 per cent to 1.4 per cent, providing relief on related legal documentation.

Changes in Inheritance and Donations Tax

Although the focus has been primarily on property purchase taxes, Law 5/2025 also introduces important changes to the Inheritance and Gift Tax (ISD).

Until now, inheriting from a sibling, uncle, or nephew incurred substantial tax without relief. These collateral relatives faced considerably higher tax burdens compared to direct descendants. From June 1, 2026, second and third-degree collateral relatives will benefit from a 25 per cent reduction on the tax due. For instance, an inheritance or gift of €100,000 between siblings would, in principle, have incurred a tax burden of approximately €20,000. With the new tax relief, the amount payable reduces to approximately €15,000 - a sa-

ving of roughly €5,000. Moreover, from June 1, 2027, this tax relief will increase further, from 25 per cent to 50 per cent.

The tax relief of 99 per cent for direct family (spouse, children, grandchildren, parents) already foreseen in the law, remains unchanged.

Increased exemption threshold for Wealth Tax

Regarding Wealth Tax (IP), we take the opportunity to remind our readers that significant changes also took effect from December 31, 2025. The exemption threshold increased from €500,000 to €1,000,000. This change is effective with immediate impact on tax returns for the 2025 fiscal year, filed in 2026.

This means many habitual residents in the Valencian Community may no longer need to file this

declaration or will see their taxable base significantly reduced. Conclusion

Changes to property purchase taxes and other patrimonial operations represent considerable tax relief for those operating in the Valencian Community. If you are considering purchasing property, expecting to receive an inheritance, or planning to make a gift to a second- or third-degree collateral relative (uncles, siblings, etc), White-Baos Lawyers can advise you on how to maximise these changes. 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.

Lost in translation

Electricity bill rise

A RECENT sketch from ComedyJOE, an entertainment section of the Irish news outlet JOE, has gone viral after a Spanish morning talk show mistook the parody for real footage.

The sketch, titled ‘Are these the most sunburnt men in Ireland?’ and posted on Tuesday, May 26, features JOE stars Ross McCarney, Ryan Carrick, and Dan Casey competing in a fictional sunburn competition. They are judged by a doctor, played by Peter Cooney, who claims he skipped a surgery to attend.

The following day, a follower spotted the clip on a Spanish talk show in Madrid. The hosts treated the comedy routine as genuine, even creating an entirely new backstory. They claimed the competition stemmed from an unusual bout of sunny weather in Ireland and took place during a beer festival.

While discussing the footage, the Spanish commentators noted how common sun-

burnt tourists are on Spanish beaches, earnestly emphasised the importance of sunscreen, and shared concerns about the men developing melanoma.

The JOE comedians have taken the mistake in their stride. Cooney joked about whether he is now considered a medical expert in Madrid, while the outlet humoured the debacle on Instagram. As summer approaches, the incident serves as a real reminder that sunscreen remains an absolute must to avoid looking like the men in the sketch.

MANY households across Spain face a 15 per cent jump in electricity bills from this month. Temporary tax relief on energy ended on Monday, June 1, increasing costs just as hot summer weather drives up the use of cooling appliances.

Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity has returned to the standard 21 per cent, while the Special Electricity Tax rose from 0.5 per cent to 5.11 per cent. This ends the reduced rates applied while market prices were high.

A typical household consuming 292 kilowatt hours monthly will see bills rise by €8, from €56 to €64. VAT on natural gas also returned to 21 per cent.

To manage these costs, consumers are opting for ceiling fans over air conditioning. Running

air conditioning during peak hours costs around 30 cents per hour.

In contrast, a ceiling fan costs just two cents per hour, making it 15 times cheaper.

Modern direct current models use up to 70 per cent less energy than older fans and can lower the perceived room temperature by eight degrees. Consumer organisation OCU argues that energy is an essential supply and is calling for a permanent reduction in VAT.

For now, households are advised to check their eligibility for the social energy bonus or use efficient fans to control spending.

BARCELONA has temporarily stopped granting licences for 24-hour supermarkets and self-service grocery stores across much of the city. Officials are preparing stricter rules aimed at reducing noise and late-night disruption in residential areas. The suspension is active and will remain in place for at least one year. It mainly affects convenience stores and supermarkets under 300 square metres operating with extended hours.

According to Barcelona City Council, the rapid growth of these businesses has created increasing tensions in areas heavily affected by tourism and nightlife. Residents have complained about groups gathering outside shops,

Late night lockdown

loud conversations under windows, and constant activity continuing into the early hours. There are currently around 1,300 such shops across the city.

HOTEL and accommodation prices in Spain rose by 7.5 per cent in April compared with the same month the previous year, according to Eurostat data from the harmonised index of consumer prices. This is around double the European Union average of approximately 3.6 per cent.

Eurostat collects comparable inflation data across EU member states using a standardised methodology, allowing direct comparison of price movements in hotels and short-term accommodation. The figures form part of broader consumer price statistics.

The data shows Spain recording a higher increase in hotel prices than most EU countries during the month. Spain’s tourism sector, one of the largest in Europe, plays a significant role in accom-

Credit : Steve Lovegrove, Shutterstock

Officials argue the freeze will provide time to develop an urban plan defining where these businesses should be allowed. The measure also blocks

permits for opening or expanding similar premises. The districts of Ciutat Vella and Sant Martí are excluded as they already have recent regulations covering this activity.

Meanwhile, Barcelona will continue inspection campaigns targeting late-night businesses. During the current municipal term, authorities conducted 14 multi-inspection operations involving more than 230 premises, identifying breaches linked to hygiene, planning, and operating conditions. These resulted in temporary closures, restoration orders, and financial penalties.

Hotel prices rise

modation demand, particularly in coastal regions and major cities.

Prices vary depending on season, lo-

cation and demand levels. During peak tourism periods, higher occupancy rates can place upward pressure on room prices, especially in popular destinations with limited availability.

For tourists, the figures indicate higher average accommodation costs in Spain compared with many EU destinations during the same period. Travellers may experience variation depending on timing and location. For residents, higher hotel prices can influence domestic travel choices, including shorter stays or travel outside peak periods. Regions with strong tourism activity may experience stronger effects due to concentrated demand.

Looking for neighbours

A DUTCH couple are attempting to revive a long-abandoned village in northern Spain by transforming it into a self-sufficient eco-community aimed at attracting international residents.

Maaike Geurts and Tibor Strausz purchased much of Barcena de Bureba, a village in Burgos, Castilla y Leon, for an estimated €339,000 to €350,000. The settlement had been largely deserted for between 40 and 50 years as rural depopulation emptied many communities across inland Spain.

Rise of padel widows

The project is open to people from different countries, with at least six Dutch families expected to participate during the early stages.

Residents are expected to contribute labour, funding or practical skills as part of the development.

Infrastructure work already completed includes an off-grid solar energy system built inside a con-

The village contains around 62 to 65 buildings, many in severe disrepair after decades without maintenance. The couple plan to restore homes, rebuild infrastructure and gradually repopulate the area through a cooperative living model.

verted shipping container and a water filtration system drawing from a nearby river.

Plans also include irrigation systems, communal gardens and an edible forest intended to support sustainable food production. The founders acknowledge that major challenges remain, including renovation costs, permits, healthcare access and limited rural infrastructure, but say the long-term goal is to create a functioning shared community with renewable energy, agriculture and collective decision-making at its core.

THE rapidly growing sport of padel is transforming from a casual hobby into a full-blown lifestyle obsession, but its rise is creating a quieter social phenomenon, the ‘padel widow’. As players disappear to courts multiple times a week, relationship experts are warning that the game is pushing some couples to the brink.

Padel clubs have evolved into vibrant social hubs, dubbed ‘the new Tinder’ by some Spanish media, featuring mixed doubles, late-night tournaments, and post-game drinks. For neglected partners, this thriving scene can fuel jealousy and exclusion, particularly when the sport replaces family time.

For couples playing together, unlike solo exercise, padel is intensely interactive.

In doubles matches, every mistake

is visible, meaning communication is constant.

A Spanish poll revealed that 63 per cent of players believe couples should avoid partnering competitively due to the friction it causes. On-court criticism and aggressive ‘coaching’ from a spouse regularly trigger frustration that spills into home life.

However, padel does not have to be a marriage spoiler.

Psychologists note that shared hobbies foster teamwork and reduce stress when approached correctly. Couples who successfully navigate the court tend to set strict boundaries, prioritise fun over winning, and maintain humour.

Ultimately, the sport merely exposes existing relationship cracks, balance and communication remain the keys to surviving the craze.

Fake empadronamiento

SPANISH police have arrested two men in the Valencia region after uncovering a scheme involving the fraudulent registration of up to 18 people at a single address in El Puig in exchange for payments of up to €800 per person. Investigators found that individuals were officially listed as residents despite not actually living at the property.

Authorities say the arrangement was primarily used by vulnerable individuals, many of them foreign nationals, seeking to regularise their administrative status in Spain through the municipal registration system (empadronamiento). This registration is essential for accessing healthcare, education and residency procedures, making it a key administrative tool.

The investigation revealed that the property owner and an associate allegedly profited by allowing people to be registered at the address without any genuine

Mercadona fined

residence. Payments reportedly ranged from €150 to €800 depending on circumstances, with at least 18 individuals linked to the same home. The case began after officials detected irregular registration patterns associated with the address.

Further checks confirmed that the number of registered individuals far exceeded actual occupancy, and in some cases there was no evidence the individuals had

Photo credit: Matthew Figg/Shutterstock

ever lived there. Both suspects, aged 38 and 55, have been arrested and are being investigated for fraud and facilitating irregular immigration-related procedures. They were released pending further proceedings but must appear before court when required.

Authorities continue to investigate whether additional properties or participants were involved in similar schemes across the region.

SPAIN’S Ministry of Consumer Affairs has fined Mercadona €30,000 after ruling that the labelling of one of its Hacendado products could mislead consumers. The case concerns ‘tortillas de avena 51%’, a wrap product whose packaging suggested a higher oat content than was actually present.

The investigation followed a complaint by consumer group FACUA, which argued that the branding and presentation implied oats were the main ingredient.

Authorities found that the product contained refined flours and that this was not clearly reflected in its mar-

keting.

Officials imposed three €10,000 fines for misleading presentation, incomplete labelling information and failures in required product identification.

They stated that food packaging must allow consumers to understand composition without relying solely on ingredient lists. Mercadona rejected the decision and is considering an appeal. The company insists its labelling complies with regulations and that ingredient information is properly provided.

Although the fine is small for a major retailer, the case highlights increasing scru-

tiny of supermarket branding across Europe, particularly for products marketed as healthier alternatives such as oat- or wholegrain-based foods. Regulators are focusing on whether packaging creates impressions that differ from actual composition, even when legal ingredient lists are accurate. The ruling may prompt supermarkets to revise packaging design and improve transparency. For consumers, the case reinforces the importance of checking ingredient lists rather than relying on frontof-pack branding when assessing nutritional content or product suitability.

THE average price of a UK pint has reached £5.50 in 2026, rising 6 per cent from £5.17 in 2024. London drinkers pay even more, with averages topping £6.10. Data from UK Debt Expert shows a pint of Guinness now averages £5.41 nationwide, a 15 per cent increase in a year. Premium lagers like Peroni have crossed the £6 mark, driven by wholesale price increases. From Monday, February 2, 2026, Heineken UK raised prices by 2.7 per cent, blaming higher employer taxes, energy costs, and pac-

Benidorm beer bargain

kaging. Regional areas face steep increases. Since 2023, Guinness prices in Swindon leaped 49 per cent to £5.20. Stoke-on-Trent and Leeds saw increases of 45 per cent and 43 per cent respectively over the same period. In contrast, Benidorm remains highly affordable. A small beer in a local Spanish bar costs €1.80 to €2.50, while a British-style pint generally costs between €3 and €4. Fier-

PRINCESS LEONOR attended Spain’s Día de las Fuerzas Armadas for the first time alongside King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia during a national military parade in Vigo. The event marked a key step in her growing public military role as she continues training across Spain’s armed forces. The parade included more than 3,700 personnel from the Army, Navy, Air and Space Force, Guardia Civil and Military Emergency Unit. Leonor observed the ceremony from the official tribune with the Royal Family as units marched along the waterfront. Her participation reflects her preparation for her future role as Comman-

ce competition, high tourist footfall, and Spain’s low alcohol duty shield holidaymakers from high costs. While Eurozone hospitality inflation rose 3.9 per cent in 2025, Benidorm venues have largely absorbed these costs. With 239 British pubs closing in the first quarter of 2024, the price gap continues to favour the Spanish resort, where a night out costs half the price of one in Britain.

Princess Leonor’s debut

der-in-Chief. While she has attended previous national events, this was her first appearance at Armed Forces Day alongside the King in a full-scale parade outside Madrid.

The event was affected by bad weather, which led to the cancellation of a planned aerial display. A separate incident occurred when the national flag fell during the hoisting ceremony due

to a technical failure. Despite disruptions, the ground parade continued as planned with large crowds in attendance. Defence officials and senior military commanders were present. Leonor’s appearance is part of her gradual integration into official duties, reinforcing her role within Spain’s constitutional monarchy and future military responsibilities.

Spain top for LGBTQ+ rights

SPAIN has officially been named the best country in Europe for LGBTQ+ rights, climbing to the top of a major international ranking and overtaking Malta after years of progressive reforms and equality legislation.

The annual Rainbow Map, published by ILGA-Europe, ranks 49 European countries on LGBTQ+ rights and protections, including anti-discrimination laws, family rights, hate crime policies and gender recognition legislation.

Spain rose from fifth place last year to number one in 2026, earning praise for its continued commitment to inclusion and equality. The report highlighted advances linked to transgender rights legislation and broader protections for LGBTQ+ communities.

The news is expected to further strengthen Spain’s reputation as one

Credit: Shutterstock/FatimeBarut

of Europe’s most welcoming countries for both residents and tourists. For expats living in Spain, the ranking reinforces the country’s image as an open and inclusive place to live, work and raise families. Popular destinations including Palma, Barcelona, Sitges, Ibiza and Benidorm have long attracted LGBTQ+ travellers from

across Europe.

Spain’s tourism industry could also benefit from the recognition, with LGBTQ+ travel continuing to play a major role in the European holiday market.

According to the latest ranking, Spain was followed by Malta, Iceland, Belgium and Denmark in Europe’s top five countries for LGBTQ+ rights.

Iconic national link

THE Osborne bull has dotted Spanish roadsides since 1956, turning a simple brandy advertisement into a national treasure that binds British enterprise with Andalucian spirit. This year marks seven decades since designer Manolo Prieto sketched the outline for the Osborne family’s Veterano brandy campaign. However, the silhouette’s power originates from deeper Anglo-Spanish ties forged over two centuries earlier.

Robert Osborne ran a wine-importing venture from Devon in the late 1700s before his son, Thomas Osborne Mann, crossed to Cadiz. Drawn by local forti ed wines, Thomas began shipments around 1804. Seven generations later, the business remains family-controlled in El Puerto de Santa María. Bodegas Osborne produces acclaimed sherries and

brandies, preserving British heritage inside a Spanish operation. Osborne commissioned the Azor advertising agency in the 1950s. Manuel Prieto delivered the clean black silhouette of a ghting bull in 1956. Originally four metres high and made of wood, the signs later grew to 14 metres in metal due to road-safety rules. Drivers still brake for a glance at the 92 surviving examples. Motorway regulations introduced in 1988 banned roadside advertising, threatening immediate demolition. A 1997 Supreme Court decision granted the bulls exemption as cultural assets, stripping the brand lettering but saving the silhouettes. Today, English origins anchor this Spanish phenomenon, reminding observers that a cherished national symbol arrived through cross-Channel commerce.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Fishy surcharge

THE growing need for convenience comes with a price, especially in supermarkets. Recent OCU data shows that buying pre-packed fish comes with a 30 per cent surcharge. Spanish supermarkets are adapting to this by removing the traditional fish counter and focusing on stocking more tray-packed fish.

Google fined

GOOGLE could be facing a high triple-digit million euro fine. The EU is planning to crack down on Alphabet’s Google following concerns it favours its own search results in defiance of local regulation. A Commission spokesperson has confirmed, however, that they’re more concerned about securing compliance than imposing penalties.

Polluters pay

POLLUTERS are paying the price. High carbon emissions have a devastating effect on the planet. In an effort to dissuade polluters, or at least hold them accountable, countries have implemented direct carbon pricing. According to the World Bank, a combined €92 billion was collected, up 2 per cent on 2024.

Power prices

EUROPEAN winter electricity prices have risen to their highest premium over following-year contracts since the 2022 energy crisis. Reduced gas supplies, low hydropower reserves and concerns over LNG disruption through the Strait of Hormuz pushed winter contracts above a 20 per cent premium, particularly in Germany and Italy.

British exports

THE UK has secured a £3.7 billion trade deal with six Gulf states, boosting export opportunities for British farmers while protecting domestic welfare standards. The agreement removes £580 million in annual tariffs, benefiting lamb, dairy and oat exports.

Overnight hotel stays in Spain increased by 1.1 per cent in April, compared to the same month in 2025, with an average price of €122.30 per occupied room, according to the INE.

Net migration falls

UK net migration fell to 171,000 in 2025, its lowest level since 2012.

The ONS estimates 813,000 people immigrated to the UK, while 642,000 people moved away. Experts anticipate the decrease in net migration to be temporary as lower immigration tends to lead to lower emigration.

Lower net migration is not wholly positive. Experts suggest the UK economy would shrink by 3.6 per cent by 2040 if it fell to zero. A smaller population reflects a smaller workforce which would prompt higher taxes to bridge the budget deficit.

The economic impact of 2025’s lower net migration is yet unknown as it depends largely on who is or isn’t migrating. Asylum seekers, for example, have low employment rates and therefore depend on more financial assis-

tance from the government. But less migration could also dissuade foreign businesses from working in the UK and ultimately contributing to the system. The ONS noted a 47 per cent drop in non-EU nationals arriving to the UK for ‘work related reasons’, which significantly impacted the final figures.

England is also currently facing

a low fertility rate. Data from ONS shows that the fertility rate across England and Wales dropped to record lows of 1.39 children per woman in 2025, down from 1.41 in 2024. Notably, a third of babies were born to foreign-born mothers. If the country wishes to maintain a stable population without migration, the fertility rate would need to rise to at least 2.1.

Flexible retirement

THE Council of Ministers recently approved several amendments to the flexible retirement scheme.

For the first time, the scheme was expanded to include self-employed workers who may now receive up to 25 per cent of their pension while still working.

The approved working schedule for part-time workers has also been extended. Where previously they could only work between 25 to 75 per cent of a full-time schedule, retirees can now work between 33 and 80 per cent of a full-time schedule. This comes with a minimum pension increase of 15 per cent.

Additionally, retirees who wish to combine their pension with part-time or self-employed work will no longer have to wait a minimum period before doing so.

The government hopes these reforms encourage those who can to stay in work. Not only will this fill

Luxury racing

LUXURY fashion brand Gucci is hitting the race track and teaming up with Renault’s Alpine Formula One team for the 2027 season, replacing BWT as title sponsor.

While the deal’s total value has not been released, many see this as Gucci’s attempt to regain relevancy and revive sales after years of decline.

This is not Formula One’s first luxury deal. In 2024 the sport partnered with LVMH in a multi-year deal worth €85.9 million.

the gaps in the labour market, but it would provide much needed relief to Spain’s overwhelmed pension system.

Football shortfall

THE Premier League is a football juggernaut. During the 2024/2025 season, the league achieved a combined revenue of £6.8 billion through ticket sales, merchandising, and streaming rights. Despite the success, clubs are haemorrhaging money.

Last year, Chelsea set the Premier League record for the highest pre-tax loss of £262 million. Players’ wages and agent fees have become heavily inflated in recent years. In 2025, for example, Liverpool set a British transfer record with a £125 million acquisition. In total, wages across the entire league reached £4.4 billion last season. However, clubs must pay in order to remain competitive.

JONATHAN ANDIC, vice-president of Mango and son of the brand’s founder, has temporarily stepped down following his arrest in connection with his father’s death. Isak Andic fell to his death while hiking with his son in Catalonia in 2024, leaving behind an estimated net worth of €3.4 billion.

Jonathon Andic, who inherited the company along with his two sisters, was eventually released on €1 million bail. He was not formally charged, but the homicide case is ongoing.

Amazon deal

AMAZON is on track to meet its promised £40 billion investment in the UK by 2027. In 2025, the e-commerce giant invested over £15 billion by opening new operational sites, expanding its studio production facilities and launching a drone delivery pilot programme.

As Amazon’s third-largest market, UK activities generated over £30 billion in revenue in 2025. As a result, Amazon contributed £1.3 billion in taxes and expanded its operations to employ a total of 75,000 workers.

Taxi deficit

ANDALUCIA is losing an estimated €300 million annually because of shortages in taxis, according to a new study. The report argues that insufficient transport harms tourism, business travel and daily mobility, particularly in cities such as Sevilla, Malaga and Marbella. In Marbella, more than 67 per cent of ride requests go unmet. Researchers say delays at airports alone cost around €27 million each year. The study also found only 36 per cent of residents believe current taxi numbers are adequate. Experts argue that increasing vehicle availability would improve tourism, reduce congestion and support economic growth.

AS temperatures rose in May, so did sales when consumers flocked to shops to cool down. Ice cube sales tripled and it’s estimated that up to three fans were sold every minute. The combination of a heatwave and a bank holiday weekend was also good for business. Klarma saw barbecue sales increase by 18 per cent compared to April 2025. Meanwhile, Marks and Spencer’s were estimated to sell 350,000 cans of alcohol over the weekend.

3I Group 2.267,00 2.326,00 2.267,00 2,86M

Admiral Group 3.320,0 3.378,0 3.310,0 2,03M

Airtel Africa 344,40 347,40 339,80 5,16M

Anglo American 3.993,0 4.000,0 3.866,0 5,83M

Antofagasta 4.166,00 4.189,00 4.020,00 1,56M

Associated British Foods 1.817,5 1.849,0 1.814,5 884,16K

AstraZeneca 13.736,0 13.806,0 13.558,0 1,57M

Auto Trader Group Plc 427,20 438,60 418,60 11,88M

Aviva 626,40 634,40 624,20 7,29M

B M European Value Retail 175,20 180,00 172,70 4,41M

BAE Systems 2.019,00 2.027,00 1.964,50 6,24M

Barclays 452,45 455,25 447,90 69,94M

Barratt Redrow 263,40 265,70 257,90 13,53M

Beazley 1.281,00 1.281,50 1.280,00 2,24M

Berkeley 3.440,0 3.450,0 3.404,0 256,64K

BP 515,00 521,40 509,90 36,69M

British American Tobacco 4.707,0 4.755,0 4.689,0 2,19M

BT Group 209,50 217,10 205,70 26,26M

Bunzl 2.350,0 2.386,0 2.338,0 719,25K

Centrica 191,60 196,15 191,60 15,56M

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.280,0 4.338,0 4.280,0 524,87K Compass 31,92 31,92 30,95 2,65M

ConvaTec Group 198,30 201,40 195,60 8,74M Croda Intl 3.043,0 3.051,0 3.000,0 297,27K

5.890,0 5.960,0 5.875,0 155,8K

1.582,0 1.612,0 1.575,0 13,65M

6.880,00 6.940,00 6.840,00

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.86

Pound rocked by Labour leadership crisis, US dollar strengthened by Middle East uncertainty

EUR/USD: Down from $1.17 to $1.16

The euro showed resilience through the first half of May, with the single currency underpinned by rising confidence that the European Central Bank (ECB) will deliver multiple interest rate hikes this year.

However, the euro faltered in the latter half of the month as lacklustre Eurozone economic releases prompted EUR investors to trim their ECB rate hike bets.

Looking ahead, while the ECB is expected to tighten its monetary policy following its June policy meeting, the focus may be on the bank’s forward guidance, with the euro poised to fall if policymakers are more trepidacious of further hikes.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.15

GBP/USD: Down from $1.35 to $1.34 Trade in the pound was highly volatile through May as the local elec -

BUSINESS EXTRA

House price drop

ACCORDING to Idealista, 14 per cent of homes listed for sale in Spain have lowered their asking price in the first quarter of 2026. Prices dropped the most in major cities like Barcelona (21 per cent) and Madrid (20 per cent), followed by Alicante (19 per cent), Madrid, Sevilla, and Valencia (18 per cent).

GDP boost

TELEFONICA boosted Spain’s GDP by €45.4 billion in 2025, 1.31 per cent of the national GDP, and supported 652,000 jobs. Spain isn’t the only country impacted. Telefonica also contributed €15 billion in Brazil, 0.78 per cent of Brazil’s GDP, and €8 billion in Germany, 0.18 per cent of the GDP.

tions triggered a Labour leadership crisis.

The resulting political uncertainty triggered sharp swings in UK borrowing

costs, with Sterling plummeting in the second week of May as gilt yields surged to multi-decade highs, before recovering as yields fell back again at the

end of the month.

Turning to June, in addition to ongoing UK political uncertainty, Sterling may also be influenced by the Bank of England’s (BoE) latest rate decision, which looks to be a line-ball call.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Up from £0.73 to £0.74

USD/EUR: Up from €0.85 to €0.86

The US dollar initially trended lower in May as demand for the safe-haven currency was undermined by fresh hopes for a ‘final agreement’ between the US and Iran.

USD exchange rates then rallied as we entered the second half of the month, supported by hawkish Federal Reserve policy expectations as well as renewed tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The situation in the Middle East will no doubt continue to drive movement in the US dollar in the coming weeks, with the currency having a lot of room to fall if a comprehensive peace deal can actually be agreed.

The price of love

AROUND the world, mi llions of people have given up on the idea of finding love the old fashioned way, instead turning to dating apps in search of a soul mate. Most apps are free to use but many also offer a paid subscription plan, turning dating into a lucra tive business.

Recently released statis tics from Business of Apps reveals over 350 million people use dating apps, with 23 million paying for

Wizz Air accelerates

WIZZ AIR is looking to overtake Ryanair as the leading low-cost airline. In 2025, Wizz Air expanded its routes and closed 2025 with 9.6 million passengers in Spain. Not only is it the fastest-growing airline in Spain, but it’s on track to become a real contender against market leaders like Ryanair and easyJet.

Recently, Ryanair has objected to the increasingly high airport taxes and has threatened to reduce its routes at regional airports. Wizz Air, however, remains on standby to cover any route Ryanair drops. This is one of many tactics that Wizz Air hopes will help them reach 13 million passengers in 2026.

premium features. The revenue generated by these apps has been steadily growing since 2015 and now the industry regularly generates upwards of €5 billion in revenue each year. 2025 saw the first slump, with revenue falling by 1.78 per cent compared to 2024, but industry projections remain high.

On the apps themselves, there is a real imbalance within the userbase. According to Players Time’s recent analysis, men outnumber women on every major platform. Many services have leveraged this imbalance into convincing men to upgrade their subscription plan, with the promise of improving their chances of finding a date. As a result, men are much more likely to pay for the premium service, spending between 145 per cent and 458 per cent more per date than women.

Medieval auction

A 14TH century King Arthur manuscript is going up for auction in July, after 700 years in a private collection. This medieval tome has never been publicly exhibited and is truly the holy grail of literature. It is expected to sell for up to £2 million.

FERRARI recently debuted its first fully-electric car, with Pope Leo even getting behind the wheel. However, the €547,840 luxury electric vehicle was met with criticism, leading to Ferrari shares falling 8 per cent on the Milan stock market, and 5 per cent in New York.

Spanish Income Tax deadline approaching: Final checks for foreign residents before June 30

THE deadline for submitting Spain’s annual income tax return (Declaración de la Renta - IRPF) is June 30. As the final weeks approach, many foreign residents are reviewing whether their declarations correctly include income from abroad.

If you are tax resident in Spain, your return should normally include worldwide income, not only earnings from within Spain. This applies even when income has already been taxed in another country.

Foreign pensions remain one of the most common omissions

Pensions from the UK, the Netherlands, the United States and other countries are frequently missing from Spanish tax returns. Even when tax has already been withheld abroad,

the income often still needs to be declared in Spain.

The final taxation depends on the type of pension and the applicable double taxation agreement. Correct classification of pension income can significantly affect the final tax result.

Investment income abroad must also be declared

Dividends, interest and capital gains from overseas investment accounts are another area often overlooked. These items are rarely included automatically in the draft return provided by the Spanish tax authorities.

Checking documentation from foreign banks and pension providers before submission is therefore essential. Even smaller amounts of foreign income generally need to be reported once

you are tax resident in Spain.

Selling property outside Spain creates reporting obligations

If you sold property in another country while living in Spain as a tax resident, the gain normally needs to be declared here as well. Tax paid abroad can usually be credited, but the tran-

saction must still be reported correctly in the Spanish return.

Many residents are surprised by this obligation when the sale took place outside Spain.

Standard exemption thresholds may not apply

Some residents assume they are not required to submit a return because their income falls below the commonly referenced €22,000 employment threshold. However, where foreign pensions, investment income or multiple income sources exist, a declaration is often still required even at lower income levels.

This is particularly relevant for retirees receiving income from abroad.

Draft returns should always be checked carefully

Many taxpayers confirm their draft return without realising that

foreign income is rarely included automatically. Reviewing documentation from overseas banks, pension providers and investment accounts helps ensure that the declaration reflects your full financial situation before submission.

There is still time to review your return

Even close to the deadline, reviewing your declaration carefully can prevent unnecessary corrections later.

Taxadora.com assists international residents from the UK, US, the Netherlands, Scandinavia and other countries each year with preparing accurate Spanish income tax returns involving cross-border income.

PORTUGAL has noti ed the European Commission that it may temporarily suspend biometric data collection under the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) at certain border points to manage airport congestion. The measure applies only when passenger volumes exceed processing capacity. Under EU rules, member states can pau-

Portugal suspends EES

se biometric registration in specic locations but must inform the Commission in advance. The suspension is temporary and used to reduce waiting times during peak tra c periods.

Portugal has previously experienced congestion during the

phased rollout of the system, particularly at Lisbon airport, where authorities temporarily reverted to manual checks when queues became excessive. The system has since been reintroduced, with ongoing operational adjustments. When activated, the suspension allows faster processing by reducing biometric checks such as ngerprint and facial scanning, while still requiring standard passport control. It does not change entry requirements or Schengen rules. Non-EU travellers will still be registered in the system during

The rights of tap water

IN Spain you may be used to asking for free agua del grifo (tap water) at bars, a consumer right protected by the 2022 Waste and Contaminated Soil Law. However, if you are holidaying in Italy this summer, you must leave that habit at the border.

Italy’s Supreme Court has o cially ruled that hospitality businesses have zero legal obligation to serve tap water to customers, even if they o er to pay for it. The landmark decision follows a legal battle involving a tourist at a ve-star luxury hotel in the Dolomites. The guest repeatedly requested tap water with evening meals, but the establishment refused,

citing an internal policy to only serve bottled mineral water costing €7 per bottle. The Supreme Court rejected the tourist’s nal appeal for €2,700 in damages for ‘emotional distress’. The court claried that Italian law leaves water service entirely to the discretion of individual business owners. While Spain enforces environmental legislation to reduce plastic, bottled water sales remain a deep-rooted part of Italian dining culture and a vital revenue stream for local businesses.

Italy is not expected to change its rules following the ruling. Travellers moving between the two nations should prepare for di erent dining table experiences.

normal operation, with biometric data collected on rst entry and movements recorded electronically. Suspensions only apply in speci c circumstances and locations. The European Commission oversees implementation, while national authorities decide when contingency measures are necessary.

What a clanger!

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

THE King is dead. Oops, no he isn’t… Well, I’ve heard some radio gaffs and blunders in my time, but Radio Caroline’s latest effort deserves a special place in the Broadcasting Hall of shame. Naturally broadcasters make mistakes. It’s part of the business. Wrong records get played. Microphones are left open. Newsreaders occasionally announce wars that haven’t started and football results that haven’t happened. My old friend, hit songwriter Barry Mason (Delilah and The Last Waltz) once committed what at the time seemed an unbeatable classic.

Barry was presenting a Radio One programme and received a request for a listener recovering in hospital. In his usual warm-hearted manner, he said: “Let’s play this for everyone in hospital.” Unfortunately, the record already cued up on the turntable was, ‘When I’m dead and Gone’ by McGuinness Flint. There was a brief moment when the nation’s patients probably wondered if

Barry knew something they didn’t. But compared with Radio Caroline’s latest catastrophe, Barry’s little slip now looks positively harmless.

For reasons known only to a mischievous computer and perhaps a particularly sadistic gremlin lurking in the studio equipment, Caroline somehow activated the official emergency procedure reserved for the death of a monarch. Listeners suddenly heard the solemn announcement that King Charles had passed away. The station then played God Save The King, before falling completely silent. Imagine the reactions. Thousands of listeners dropping cups of tea. Telephones ringing across the country. Family members informing relatives. Neighbours knocking on doors. Somebody undoubtedly rushing off to claim a win at the bookies. Meanwhile His Majesty was very much alive, carrying out public engagements in Northern Ireland and probably unaware that Radio Caroline had already dispatched him to the celestial transmitter in the sky.

Eventually the station realised that the King remained stubbornly among the living and hurriedly apologised. Ma-

nagement blamed a computer error. A computer error? That’s comforting. The very phrase fills me with confidence. It’s right up there with the pilot announcing a ‘minor engine problem’ at 35,000 feet or a surgeon saying, ‘Oops, that’s not the appendix’. Still, I suppose we should be grateful the mistake happened at a radio station. Imagine the possibilities from other warning systems.

‘Good evening. Due to a computer error, we have accidentally informed the nation that a nuclear missile has landed in Palma. Please resume your holidays and return to the swimming pool’. Now that would be difficult to top. Until then, Radio Caroline can proudly claim ownership of one of the greatest broadcasting clangers of modern times. Long live the King. Preferably for longer than Radio Caroline recently managed to report.

Many thanks for all the wonderful mail I still receive. I truly do read every one and reply to those I can. Keep ‘em coming, they really do warm the cockles of the ol’ boys ticker.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Runway resumes

THE Santiago de Compostela Airport in northern Spain has reopened following a 34-day closure that caused widespread traveller headaches. The site, also known as Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport, closed to all traffic, takeoffs, and landings on April 23 for urgent runway resurfacing works managed by Spanish airport operator Aena.

Santiago airport reopens after closure disrupting UK flights and travel.

The closure disrupted a key gateway for British holidaymakers visiting Galicia. Airlines including Ryanair, Vueling, Aer Lingus, KLM, British Airways, and Iberia usually operate 30 direct weekly flights from London Stansted, London Gatwick, and London Heathrow, all of which were cancelled during the project. The airport serves 23 destinations across nine airlines and handles 3.6 million annual passengers.

The €28 million maintenance project replaced 3.2 kilometres of runway surface, upgraded LED lighting, and installed extra storm-water channels to prevent winter flooding. Aena expects the upgrades to add at least 15 years of life to the runway.

Although the airport became operational again on May 27, separate maintenance works continue elsewhere on the premises. Furthermore, Ryanair has closed its base at the airport as part of a wider decision to cut 1.2 million seats across Spain due to rising airport fees. This move also impacts routes to Jerez, Vigo, and Valladolid, leaving Santiago de Compostela operating with fewer flights than before the closure.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Piercings for puppies

THE animal rescue organisation

Las Reinas del Biberón is preparing to celebrate a historic milestone: the highly anticipated grand opening of its new community centre, La Casa de las Reinas. Located at Calle Fra Juan Tensa, number 29, in the town of El Campello, this space was created with the purpose of becoming a unique meeting point to coordinate rescue efforts.

To commemorate this major step forward, on Sunday, June 14, from 12.00pm to 8.00pm, the venue will host a vibrant day of festivities open to the public. During the day, a variety of creative workshops, live music, a charity raffle, and family-friendly activities will be available for participation, as well as the newly dubbed ‘Bibercafé solidario’, a solidarity café.

New El Campello animal centre opens with charity body

cause, this activity invites attendees to enhance their personal style for a good reason.

Vibrant variety RESTAURANT REVIEW

IN the picturesque mountain village of Alcalali, Restaurante La Solana stands as a cornerstone of the Costa Blanca’s vibrant inland culinary scene. Located in the heart of the stunning Vall de Pop, just a short, scenic drive from the popular coastal hubs of Denia and Calpe, this charming establishment has spent more than 30 years perfecting the art of hospitality, blending regional tradition with international flair.

In addition to this, the venue will host a unique charity event, the Solidarity Piercings event. Under the motto of treating oneself to something lasting while supporting a noble

Not only this, the event will have a strong charitable aspect. A portion of the proceeds from every piercing, which will cost from €15 to €20, depending on the piercing, will go directly toward funding the rescue group’s ongoing projects, which focus heavily on the rearing, rehabilitation, and saving of nursing puppies and other vulnerable animals in the Costa Blanca area.

The restaurant features a spacious, classically decorated main dining room, a bright and climate-controlled glass-enclosed terrace, and two open-air outdoor terraces perfect for soaking in the Mediterranean breeze.

What truly sets La Solana apart is its exceptional dedi-

cation to variety and culinary precision. The kitchen focuses on fresh, high-quality, local ingredients, transforming them into meticulously crafted dishes. The restaurant’s signature home-made desserts and their highly regarded couscous, widely considered the best in the area, have become popular with both locals and visitors.

For those who love options, this standout restaurant offers an incredible variety of

17 distinct fixed-price menus. These carefully curated selections seamlessly balance traditional Spanish flavours with international favourites, ensuring a delightful option for every palate, dietary preference, and budget. For those who are hungry but are not sure what they are in the mood for, La Solana is a go-to choice on the Costa Blanca North.

C. Los Naranjos 1, 03728, Alcalali. Tel: 966 482 140

Swimming spectacle Jazz jamboree

BENISSA will be hosting one of its most exciting sports events in June, with the return of the long-awaited sixth edition of the Entre Cales open water swimming crossing, an event that, in recent years, has become one of the most popular watersports-related events in the town’s summer calendar.

The event, which will take place on Sunday, June 14 , will see swimmers take on a 2,500-metre route in Benissa’s picturesque coastline, starting at Cala Baladrar and finishing at the Club Náutico Les Bassetes. This event, which will kick off from 10.00am, will offer participants a chance to compete and tackle a formidable challenge, as well as experience this stretch of the Mediterranean coastline in a new way, traversing

some of the municipality’s most idyllic coves. The race has various categories available for participation, including senior swimmers, making it an accessible event for both experienced swimmers and newcomers to the sport. Participation, however, will be limited to 300 swimmers for safety reasons, so those who want to participate and take on

the challenge are encouraged to register as soon as possible at the official website, crono4 sports.es.

THE town of Pedreguer is set to celebrate the return of its annual jazz programme with the 23rd edition of Pedreguerjazç, a three-night cultural festival bringing live music to La Pista Espai Cultural and listening audiences from across the Costa Blanca North, both seasoned jazz lovers and those new to the genre.

treated to ‘Baila la lluvia’ by Ana Pereira, a performance that continues the festival’s exploration of expressive jazz forms, blending voice and instrumental arrangement in a more contemporary register.

The Entre Cales open water swimming crossing is one of the prime events dedicated to sports tourism in the Marina Alta area, and combines a strong competitive heart with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Costa Blanca coastline.

The concert on Friday, June 5 at 8.00pm will feature Paula Climent i la Dixie, a dixieland-inspired ensemble led by vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Paula Climent. The group, AC DX, is formed by eight musicians with roots in Xativa and is known for performing classic jazz repertoire with a strong emphasis on improvisation and traditional swing influences.

On Saturday, June 6, audiences will be

On Sunday, June 7 at 8.00pm, Voro García & The Trestones will take the stage, a project led by the renowned trumpeter Voro García. The group brings together experienced jazz musicians to deliver a more modern and experimental sound. The performances will take place at La Pista Espai Cultural, a key venue in Pedreguer’s cultural life and a regular host of concerts, theatre, and community events. Reservations for each performance are available through the official Pedreguer Town Hall website.

Blues blowout

THOSE who are fans of blues music and are located near Altea are set for an incredible night of live performances for the 2026 edition of the Altea Blues Festival, an event that will see a concert by Rey Pereira Blues Explosion take place at the Auditori Plaça de l’Aigua, one of the town’s key cultural venues.

The performance, which will take place on Friday, June 12 at 9.00pm, is part of a larger programme of blues concerts that are

scheduled throughout the month, and will bring a vibrant mix of artists and music styles to this beautiful Costa Blanca area.

Rey Pereira Blues Explosion is expected to deliver an energetic set rooted in classic blues traditions while incorporating modern influences. Known for their dynamic stage presence and strong instrumental performances, the group has built a reputation for stunning and engaging live shows.

The Festival itself will take place across four key dates during the month: June 5, 12, 19, and 26 , and will transform Altea into a main cultural hub for live music at the beginning of summer.

An established music festival, this year’s edition of the Altea Blues Festival will reinforce its reputation as one of the leading festivals for this genre of music on the Costa Blanca, as well as further Altea as a cultural hub in the area.

Spain’s Wine Legacy

Martha Ardila, Sommelier at Martha’s Vineyard Moraira

Why are Spanish wines still cheaper than France and Italy?

SPANISH wine is often cheaper than its French and Italian counterparts, not because of quality, but because of history, structure and perception.

First, Spain has the largest vineyard area in the world - around 950,000 hectares, more than France or Italy. Many regions are planted at low densities and land remains relatively affordable. This creates a vast reservoir of high-potential terroir that is still underpriced on the international market. By contrast, the most coveted French and Italian zones - Burgundy, Champagne, Barolo, Barbaresco, Bolgheri - are small, tightly delimited and effectively ‘sold out’, which drives prices higher. History has also shaped value. Spain is the only major European wine country to have lived through a long period of religious-

ly driven alcohol restrictions under Islamic rule. Wine never completely disappeared, but it did not develop the same continuous, prestige-heavy public culture as in France or Italy. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Spain became a major exporter of bulk wine, fixing a low-price image just as Bordeaux, Champagne and later Tuscany were building global luxury brands.

Finally, lower rural wages, powerful cooperatives and EU production incentives have all helped keep Spanish wine prices unusually modest - leaving today’s drinkers with one of the best quality-to-price ratios in the world. So we are living in paradise and you can afford a good quality wine, after all.

‘Life is too short to drink bad wine!’

martha@marthasvineyard.es marthasvineyard.es

Paella party

THE Poble Nou de Benitachell’s Pensioners’ and Retired People’s Association, in collaboration with the Benitachell Town Council, is bringing back another long-awaited edition of one of its most beloved community traditions. The Giant Paella gathering, a festive event created specifically for the elderly people of the municipality, is back and will take place on La Pau Street on Sunday, June 14

The event is expected to turn the heart of the town into a lively meeting point, filled with food, music, companionship, and camaraderie during this special day in June.

But the paella will not be the only thing to pay attention to: there will also be live entertainment present during the afternoon, with live mariachi music accompanying lunch and creating a lively, festival atmosphere. Afterwards, at around 4.00pm, attendees will be able to

dance with instructor Toni Catalá, making for a fun and active afternoon.

Tickets for the event will be priced at €5 for association members and €10 for non-members, and though it is an event made specifically for elderly residents, anyone in the municipality is welcome to attend. Reservations will be open until June 10, and can be made by contacting Mónica or Pepita, the local hairdressers, who are in charge of organising the ticket sales for the event.

Pedalling participation

vels, ages, and abilities.

MUCHAMIEL is gearing up to celebrate sustainability, sport, and community spirit with its popular ‘Bike Ride for the Environment’ event, to take place on Sunday, June 7. Organised by Muchamiel Town Council, the event comes about to mark both World Bicycle Day and World Environment Day.

Participants in the bike ride can collect their bibs from 9.00am to 10.00am. Then, the event, which will be non-competitive to ensure anyone can take part, will kick off at 10.00am from Parque de Ravel. It will be an accessible bike ride, open to residents and visitors of all skill le-

To add to the fun community aspect of the ride, the event will offer a full morning of activities. Younger participants can take part in the children’s circuits, which include scooter and tricycle track races, which will be set up in the park.

Additionally, all the participants will be entered into a prize draw at the end of the event, and bicycle-themed gifts will be available to win.

Registration for this event will be free, and sign-ups will be available online at the Muchamiel Town Hall’s official website.

Roaming free

PORTUGAL’S last circus elephant is retiring to a life of luxury. Julie, who has been a part of the Victor Hugo Cardinali circus since 1988, will be one of the rst elephants to reside at Pangea, Europe’s rst ever elephant sanctuary.

Pangea elephant sanctuary spans 1,000 acres in Alenejo, Portugal. Its habitats have been modelled after Asian and African planes, ensuring native wildlife species can thrive, and rescued elephants can comfortably roam in an expansive but protected territory. Establishing Pangea has taken over 10 years to turn into a reality. But at last, it is ready to welcome its rst two residents.

33 marathons, 33 days

TWO brothers from Ireland have accomplished an incredible feat, running 33 marathons in 33 days, raising €1.7 million for dementia research along the way.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has taken a lot from Jordan and Cian Adams. They’ve lost 12 relatives to the disease, including their mother Geraldine who died aged just 52. With no treatment or cure, FTD is a life-changing diagnosis for those who carry the gene.

Julie will be accompanied by another female elephant, Kariba. Kariba has been based in a Belgian zoo, one of many elephants across the world who live in almost

complete isolation from their species. Elephants are incredibly social and active species, walking tens of kilometres each day in the wild as part of a large herd. Yet an estimated 600 elephants are held in captivity around the world. Many are held in poor, isolated conditions,

and some are forced to perform tricks on command to paying audiences. Thankfully legislation is improving and Pangea is ready to give elephants the home they deserve.

Crucially, Pangea is not a zoo, it’s a sanctuary, where nally Julie and Kariba will be allowed to roam freely.

Known as the FTD brothers, Jordan and Cian began their month-long challenge on April 27 to draw attention, raise funds, and honour their lost loved ones.

The elder Adams brother, Jordan, previously gained national attention by running the London marathon with a 25kg fridge strapped to his back. On social media, Jordan said that the fridge represented the heavy weight families carry after receiving their FTD diagnosis.

It was an emotional scene when the pair crossed the nish time for the 33rd

TOPTrending

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

time, accompanied by their sister Kennedy. Thousands of people travelled across the country to cheer them on, greeting them with triumphant chants of ‘Ole Ole Ole’ as they crossed the nish line.

The brothers have so far raised €1.7 million for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the FTD Foundation. But they’re not stopping there. Jordan’s next challenge will see him run the Chicago Marathon and climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

CURIOSITY killed the cat, but what will it do to Pip, a precocious schoolgirl who finds herself at the centre of yet another mystery. The second season was certainly a step up from the first, no doubt due to the author’s involvement in the show. The mystery feels tighter, more high-stakes and there’s an added depth to characters who have been fundamentally changed by recent events. Improved pacing and characterisation almost make up for the lead actress’ poor attempt at an English accent.

Punisher: One Last Kill

MARVEL fans are in for a treat with Punisher: One Last Kill, which reintroduces one of the franchise’s most brutal vigilantes. Frank Castle is known for his shoot-to-kill approach to justice, but the series is much more than a collection of action shots. As brilliantly choreographed as those scenes are, what’s truly great about this series is it’s slower-paced moments where Frank’s trauma and struggles are interro-

HEALTH anxiety, sometimes referred to as white coat syndrome or white coat disorder, is far more common than many people realise. For some, simply attending a medical appointment can trigger feelings of panic, stress, or fear, even when there is no serious health issue present.

White coat syndrome often describes a temporary rise in blood pressure caused by anxiety during doctor

or hospital visits. Health anxiety is broader and involves excessive worry about illness, symptoms, or medical conditions.

People may constantly monitor their body, search symptoms online, or fear the worst from minor aches and pains.

Common symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, trouble sleeping, headaches, muscle tension, and feelings of dread before medical appointments.

In some cases, people may avoid check-ups altogether because of fear or anxiety.

Treatment usually focuses on reducing anxiety levels and building reassurance. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy can help people manage anxious thoughts, while relaxation techniques, exercise, and limiting online symptom searching may also be beneficial. Seeking professional support is important when anxiety begins affecting everyday life or well-being.

WHEN energy levels dip, many people reach straight for another coffee or sugary snack. While they may offer a quick boost, the effect rarely lasts. The right foods, however, can help maintain steady energy and improve concentration throughout the day.

content and essential nutrients that support brain function.

Oats are an excellent place to start. Packed with slow-releasing carbohydrates and fibre, they provide lasting energy without the mid-morning crash. Eggs are another smart choice, thanks to their high protein

For sharper focus, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to better memory and concentration. Nuts and seeds also make ideal snacks, offering healthy fats, magnesium and protein to keep both body and mind fuelled.

Leafy greens like spinach and kale contain iron and folate, nutrients that help re-

duce tiredness and support mental clarity. Meanwhile, berries are full of antioxidants that may improve brain performance and protect cognitive health over time. Hydration matters too.

Even mild dehydration can affect mood, focus and energy levels, so drinking enough water is just as important as eating well.

Small changes to your daily meals can make a noticeable difference in how you feel, think and perform.

Quality sleep matters

FROM blackout curtains and magnesium supplements to mouth taping and tracking every sleep cycle, ‘sleepmaxxing’ has become the latest wellness trend taking over social media. The idea is simple: optimise your sleep in every possi-

ble way to improve energy, mood and overall health. But is it genuinely helpful, or simply another exhausting obsession?

There is no doubt that quality sleep matters. Good sleep has been linked to better concentration, stron-

ger immunity and improved mental well-being. Creating a calming bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed and sticking to a regular sleep schedule can all make a real difference.

The problem begins when healthy habits turn into unhealthy pressure. For some people, constantly monitoring sleep scores and chasing the ‘perfect’ night’s rest can create more anxiety than relaxation. Ironically, stressing about sleep often makes it harder to drift off.

Experts suggest focusing on consistency rather than perfection. Simple habits such as reducing caffeine late in the day, keeping bedrooms cool and winding down properly are often far more effective than expensive gadgets or viral hacks.

Sleepmaxxing can be useful when approached sensibly, but true rest should feel restorative, not competitive. Sometimes the best thing you can do for better sleep is stop overthinking it.

That Bergasol moment

DR MARCUS STEPHAN

MANY years ago, I hosted Judith Chalmers at a fundraising event, and I remember thinking how remarkably tanned she looked. Readers will know that she recently passed away after an outstanding broadcasting career and is perhaps best remembered for the popular ITV programme Wish You Were Here...?. Speaking to the press, her son Mark revealed that his affectionate nickname for her was sometimes ‘Satsuma’.

It is entirely possible that many people who eventually settled in this part of the world were first introduced to the Costa del Sol through Judith Chalmers. For those moving here, it can take time to become accustomed to the abundance of sunshine. Anyone raised under endless grey, overcast skies will understand the instinctive urge to rush outdoors and make the most of the sun whenever it appears.

More challenging, however, is learning that our skin requires protection from prolonged exposure. It is not something that necessarily comes naturally to us. In the UK

alone, around 20,000 new cases of melanoma - a serious form of skin cancer - are diagnosed each year, and those numbers are expected to rise. Most people understand the importance of using sunscreen, yet walking into any pharmacy or high street retailer presents an overwhelming array of products.

Beyond the sheer number available, each one claims different benefits. Labels are filled with a confusing combination of science, pseudo-science, numbers and abbreviations, enough to bewilder even the most conscientious consumer.

The information provided in this column is for educational and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

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/

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Understanding live-in home care

LIVING on the Costa Blanca can be a beautiful chapter of life. The sunshine, familiar streets, neighbours and daily routines often become part of what makes this place feel like home. But as we grow older, there may come a moment when everyday tasks become more difficult, or when family members start to wonder whether more support is needed.

For many seniors and their families, the idea of care can feel overwhelming at first. Does needing help mean moving out? Is a nursing home the only option? What kind of support is really needed, and when is the right time to ask? These are not always easy questions, especially when families live in different countries or are unsure how care works in Spain.

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Summer fitness

SUMMER is the perfect time to get outdoors, enjoy some fresh air and exercise, whether that’s a walk along the beach, a jog in the park or a fitness class in the sunshine. However, warmer weather brings extra challenges and

requires sensible precautions.

One of the most important things to remember is to stay hydrated. The body loses an excess of water through sweating during the hot weather, so drin king plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise is essential.

Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing will also help regulate the body’s temperature in warm weather, keeping the body cool and comfortable.

When temperatures start to soar, fitness routines need to change to avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, usually between late morning and mid-afternoon. Early mornings and evenings are often much cooler and safer for physical activity. And whether exercising in the early morning or late evening, applying sun cream, wearing a hat or sunglasses to protect against harmful UV rays is essential. Finally, it is important to listen to your body. Feeling dizzy, unusually tired, or sick can be signs of overheating. Taking breaks and slowing down when needed will help make summer exercise both enjoyable and safe.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Toll road price rise

DRIVERS on the Costa del Sol have been facing much higher AP-7 toll charges from Monday, June 1 as special summer rates came into effect. Patricia Navarro, president of the Popular Party in Malaga, described the adjustment as an ‘infernal price hike’ and demanded action from the Spanish government. A full journey from Fuengirola to Manilva now costs €19.55 instead of the normal season rate of €12. Individual toll booths also saw increases.

Navarro warned that the Spanish government increased its toll revenue from €30 million to €35 million over two years. She insisted this money should return to Malaga Province to offer discounts for regular users, rather than disappear elsewhere. She criticised the failure to support local needs, such as improvements to the congested A-7 or building a third lane between San Pedro Alcantara and Puerto Banus. The summer rates will remain for June, July, August and September.

Axarquia

Massive migration begins

MOTRIL Port has finalised extensive arrangements for the 2026 Operacion Paso del Estrecho. Running from Monday, June 15 to Tuesday, September 15, this annual project establishes the Granada Province facility as a primary maritime link between Europe and North Africa during the peak holiday period.

Management reported strong results from the 2025 campaign, which recorded over 127,000 travellers and 33,000 vehicles. These figures represent an increase of 17 per cent for passengers and 14.7 per cent for vehicles compared to the previous year. The volume placed Motril as the fourth busiest Spanish port involved in the coordinated national effort. Outbound traffic from mid-June to mid-August accounted for 60,000 passengers and some 16,000 vehicles, whilst return journeys from July to September added 67,000 passengers and 17,000 vehicles.

Expectations point towards further expansion in passenger volumes during 2026.

Mallorca

Cancer walk tops €6,000

CANCER SUPPORT Mallorca is delighted to announce that this year’s Walk Against Cancer campaign raised an incredible €6,038.63 in support of people affected by cancer across Mallorca.

They would like to apologise for the delay in confirming the final total, as they were waiting for a number of outstanding donations and payments to be received. They are now pleased to share the final figure and celebrate the fantastic achievement of everyone involved.

The success of Walk Against Cancer 2026 would not have been possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of the participants, volunteers, supporters, sponsors, and donors. Throughout April, individuals and teams got together to get active, raise awareness, and collect vital funds that will help Cancer Support Mallorca continue providing free practical and emotional support to cancer patients and their families.

On behalf of everyone at Cancer Support Mallorca, thank you.

Costa Blanca South Bright future

THE Costa Blanca South is celebrating positive news as Alicante’s Ciudad de la Luz film studios continue to attract major international investment and create new opportunities for local people.

Production company Good Films Studios has signed a long-term agreement to base its operations at the studios for the next 10 years. The company plans to film up to 20 productions during that period, helping to strengthen Alicante’s growing reputation as a leading centre for film and television in Europe.

The partnership is expected to bring jobs, training and business opportunities across the region. Local hotels, restaurants, shops and service providers are all expected to benefit from the increased activity created by film productions.

Good Films has already started work on its first Alicante-based project and has praised the quality of the studios, the local climate and the area’s excellent transport links.

Almeria

All night fiesta

THE whole of Almeria is buzzing with excitement as towns and villages across the province prepare to celebrate one of the most anticipated nights of the year. On Saturday, June 6, many communities will gather for La Noche en Blanco, a day dedicated to celebrating art, enjoying music and supporting local businesses.

Albox has an especially great schedule of events planned that will keep the party going, long into the night. Beginning at 10am and running until midnight, Albox Town Hall has promised 14 hours of uninterrupted fun. A street bar will be up and running from sun-up to well past sun down, serving tasty tapas and refreshing drinks from mid-day.

No festival is complete without drinking at least one ice-cold mojito. Throughout the day bands, DJs and dance troupes will keep the atmosphere alive and entertain the gathered crowd. La Noche Blanco is also the perfect time to shop as local businesses are offering special discounts.

Costa Calida

World-class canines

ONCE more, Puerto de Mazarron has become the centre of attention for dog lovers and dog breeding enthusiasts as it hosted the 14th edition of the National Dog Show, an event that becomes more popular with each passing year and attracted participants, breeders, and of course, pups with prowess to the charming coastal municipality.

The event attracted trainers of more than 100 dogs of various breeds, including extremely rare ones. Visitors who attended the event were treated to a unique opportunity to see the wide range of appearances and skills of the talented dogs.

The competition also boasts significant prestige; it was an official qualifying event for the Championship of the Region of Murcia, drawing high-level trainers and world-class canines to the idyllic shores of Puerto de Mazarron. Many of the dogs seen in the competition are set to compete on an international level. But what truly defined the day was the lively and family-friendly atmosphere among the dog lovers at the show.

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A space mission

A Russian stray dog by the name of Laika was the first living creature sent into space in November 1957 aboard the Soviet spacecraft Sputnik 2. She has a small monument in her honour outside the military research facility in Moscow that prepared her flight into space. The stray died only a few hours after takeoff and animal rights activists saw a problem with sending the dog to her death. However, she has been immortalised throughout history.

Enter Truffles’ worldpet-sitters delight in it!

PETS come in all shapes and sizes. Some are large, goofy dogs; others are fi ercely independent cats. And then there’s Truffl e.

As a tiny Yorkie, Truffl e looks like a cuddly stuffed animal, but don’t let the fluff fool you - she runs a tight ship. She knows her schedule and expects her staff (read: house-sitters) to stick to it. Breakfast is at 7.00am sharp. Not 7.01. Her morning walk is at 9.00am, precisely before the Spanish sun turns the pavement into lava. Your reward for this military precision? Utter, unwavering devotion.

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For a small annual registration fee (and zero ‘per-sit’ fees), you can connect with verifi ed members. Pets stay in their routines, properties remain secure, and owners dodge eye-watering kennel fees.

“This site is definitely the best... Lamia and her team provide such a personal approach and will talk you through any problems.”Kay Lattimore Join today Register at HouseSitMatch. com and use code WELCOME50 for 50 per cent off your fi rst year. Lamia Walker, Founder. Call: +44 (0)7772 142742 Rated Excellent on Trustpilot -

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MANY dog owners across Spain remain unaware that their pets have a legal right to enter bars, cafes and restaurants, as some establishments quietly ignore national regulations.

Spain’s Animal Welfare Law (Law 7/2023), which came into force in October 2023, permits dogs into most public and private venues by default, provided they pose no risk. Crucially, businesses wishing to ban pets must display a clearly visible sign at the entrance. Without this specific signage, they have no legal basis to refuse entry, though animals remain banned from food preparation areas for hygiene reasons. Registered assistance and guide dogs retain full access rights under all circumstances.

Owners also face strict rules regarding their pets’ safety. Leaving a dog tied outside a shop or venue unattended for a long period and if in danger means you could

Pet sign fines

risk a fine. Minor infractions, such as leaving a dog unsupervised on the street, can attract fines of up to €10,000. Serious offences carry penalties between €10,001 and €50,000, while very se-

rious violations can reach €200,000.

With the summer terrace season approaching, experts advise owners to check for signage and politely prompt staff, as some venues remain unaware of their obligations.

Restaurant owners are recommended to put their pet policies in writing at the entrance to prevent disputes with increasingly rights-aware customers.

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EU breathalyser rule

EVERY new car registered in the European Union from July 2026 must be technically prepared for an alcohol interlock device, under new EU road safety rules designed to reduce drink-driving-related accidents.

The regulation has caused confusion online, with many drivers wrongly believing they will automatically have to blow into a breathalyser to start their vehicle. In reality, the rule only requires manufacturers to install a standardised interface allowing an alcohol interlock system, known as an Alcolock, to be easily connected if authorities or courts require it. The actual breath-test device will not be automatically fitted.

Alcohol interlocks already exist in parts of Europe, commonly used in commercial transport or for repeat drink-driving offenders. Drivers must blow into the device before starting the engine; if alcohol levels exceed legal limits, the vehicle remains immobilised. The difference now is that all new EU vehicles must be factory-ready for the technology.

This mandate forms part of the

Credit : HenadziPechan, Shutterstock

New EU rules will require all new cars to be prepared for alcohol interlock systems from 2026.

EU’s ‘Vision Zero’ strategy aimed at drastically reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 2050. Officials believe easier Alcolock installation will help reduce fatal crashes linked to drink driving.

The requirement reflects a broader technological shift in modern cars, which increasingly include speed warnings, lane assist, fatigue alerts, emergency braking, and data recorders. While supporters argue these systems reduce human error, critics believe cars are becoming overly dependent on unsolicited monitoring software.

Insurance cover improved

SPAIN’s fresh legislation on civil liability and motor insurance introduces major benefits for road traffic victims while threatening to increase premiums for motorists.

Under the updated rules, accident victims will access expanded indemnity options. Payouts now link directly to the consumer price index to match living costs. Furthermore, families will benefit from the recognition of lost income for non-working homemakers, resolving previous gender-based disparities.

The law also introduces moral damages awards for close relatives of severely injured victims. Partners can receive coverage for sexual and reproductive damages, while support periods for secondary medical and psychological care double to 12 months.

Additionally, insurers must supply motivated settlement offers with medical reports. Electric scooters and personal mobility vehi-

cles now require compulsory insurance, ensuring coverage if a rider lacks personal assets.

Although victim support organisations welcome these adjustments, they

rehabilitation expenditures remain for profoundly disabled individuals. Inevitably, insurance companies will likely pass these costs to consumers.