Costa Blanca South 21 – 27 May 2026 Issue 2133

Runway rush

ALICANTE-ELCHE Miguel Hernández Airport continues setting new records as passenger numbers keep climbing ahead of what is expected to be another extremely busy summer on the Costa Blanca.

According to gures released by AENA, the airport handled 1,921,861 passengers during April. representing an increase of 10.9 per cent compared with the same month last year. International travel once again drove most of the growth. More than 1.69 million passengers travelled on international ights during April, marking a year-on-year increase of 12.3 per cent.

Domestic tra c also increased, although more slowly. Alicante-Elche handled 222,973 passengers on ights within Spain, up 1.3 per cent compared with April 2025.

The United Kingdom remained by far the airport’s largest international market. During April alone, more than 637,000 British passengers passed throu-

gh the terminal.

Germany ranked second with more than 117,000 passengers, closely followed by the Netherlands. Poland and Belgium completed the top ve international markets, both also exceeding 100,000 travellers during the month.

Aircraft movements increased at exactly the same pace as passenger numbers. During April, the airport recorded 12,074 ights, also up 10.9 per cent.

The strong growth has continued throughout the year. Between January and April, Alicante-Elche wel-

comed 5.86 million passengers overall, representing growth of 8 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Flight operations also climbed during the rst four months of 2026, reaching 37,694 aircraft movements.

The latest figures further confirm Alicante-Elche’s position as one of Spain’s leading airports for international tourism, particularly for holidaymakers and foreign residents travelling to the Costa Blanca.

Airlines are also pre-

paring for another hectic summer. Ryanair recently con rmed it does not currently expect any fuel supply disruption across Europe despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, although rising oil prices could still place pressure on airline pro ts later this year.

Horseplay with HOVAR

IF you fancy something a little unusual on the Costa Blanca this month, HOVAR is inviting you to an afternoon of hobby horse racing, fundraising and family entertainment in Hondon de las Nieves. The charity event takes place on Sunday May 31 from 2pm at Finca La Montanosa and aims to raise funds for the animals cared for by HOVAR, the Hondon Valley Animal Rescue organisation.

Unlike traditional race nights, this event puts the audience right in the middle of the action. Hobby horses will be provided and guests can take part in the races themselves, creating what organisers promise will be an afternoon full of laughs and friendly competition. Each race will also include prizes for audience predictions, while winners from every

round will go through to a final ‘champion of champions’ race complete with a trophy presentation.

Alongside the racing, visitors can enjoy food included with entry, raffle prizes, charity stalls and plenty of audience participation throughout the afternoon.

Tickets cost €14, including both the meal and event entry.

Tickets are available from the HOVAR shop in Hondon de las Nieves or by WhatsApp on (+34) 676 558 432. The venue can also be contacted directly on (+34) 614 748 566.

HOVAR works to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome dogs and cats across the Hondon Valley area. More information about the charity and its work can be found at hondonvar.org.

TORREVIEJA is moving ahead with plans for a huge new urban park that promises green spaces, themed playgrounds and panoramic views across the salt lagoons and Mediterranean coast.

The future Alto de la Casilla park, with a budget of more than €10.3 million, is designed to become one of the city’s biggest leisure and environmental projects.

The development will include wide walking areas, shaded seating zones, picnic spaces, a café and a large viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape. Parking for cars and bicycles is also planned to encourage easier access and more sustainable transport.

Landscaping will play a major role in the project, with more than 500 trees and over 12,000 plants set to fill the site. Species will include pine trees, jacarandas, rosemary, lavender and thyme, all chosen to suit the Mediterranean climate while reducing water use.

Families are expected

Park dreams

to be one of the main attractions of the new park thanks to two large themed playgrounds.

One play area, called ‘Laguna Rosa’, will take inspiration from Torrevieja’s salt industry, while the second, ‘Mundo Náutico’, will fo-

cus on the city’s maritime history with a giant ship, shark-themed features and a lighthouse standing more than 13 metres high. The project also includes play areas and extra shaded structures throughout the park.

Renta warning letters Blackout compensation

THOUSANDS of taxpayers in Spain could soon receive warning letters from Agencia Tributaria after possible mistakes were detected in this year’s income tax returns. Hacienda says around 130,000 letters will be sent from midMay onwards to people whose declarations may contain incorrect or incomplete information.

THOUSANDS of households across Spain affected by the major blackout on April 28, 2025 may still be entitled to compensation on their electricity bills, according to consumer association FACUA. Months after the outage disrupted large parts of the Iberian Peninsula, many customers say they have not received automatic reductions despite Spanish regulations requiring compensation when power cuts exceed certain limits.

FACUA has launched a campaign encouraging affected consumers to formally claim money they believe electricity distributors should already have credited automatically. The organisation argues responsibility lies with distributors, which manage regional electricity networks, rather than energy suppliers.

Rather than immediately opening investigations or issuing penalties, Hacienda says the letters are intended to give people the chance to review their return voluntarily and, if necessary, submit a complementary declaration before more formal procedures begin. Last year, more than 45,000 taxpayers corrected their returns after receiving similar notifications.

The agency is also warning people not to assume the pre filled draft is automa-

The tax agency says the campaign mainly targets taxpayers who modified details already included in the draft declaration provided by Hacienda. That can involve changes linked to income, deductions, property ownership, family circumstances or rental information that do not match the records already held by the administration.

tically correct. According to Hacienda, some information may still be missing, especially in areas linked to regional deductions, rental income, property sales, pension contributions, grants, subsidies or family related tax benefits. Foreign residents and self employed workers may face particular difficulties because the Spanish tax system often involves complex rules around overseas income, deductions and property declarations. Mistakes do not automatically mean fraud, but ignoring a warning letter could eventually lead to additional tax payments, interest charges or penalties.

Beware the bills

EXPATS in Spain often face a shock when summer electricity bills arrive, sometimes doubling in cost compared to winter months. While many residents fear overcharging, the increase usually stems from higher cooling demand. A typical two-bedroom apartment costing €80 monthly in winter can easily reach €180 during the heat. Air conditioning is the primary driver; a single unit running eight hours daily adds up to €50 to the bill.

To mitigate these costs, residents should clean AC filters monthly. Clogged units work 20 per cent harder to achieve the same cooling effect. Maintaining thermostats at 24°C rather than 20°C also reduces consumption, as each degree lower increases energy use by 7 per cent.

Traditional Spanish habits offer the most effective protection against the heat. Unlike Northern Europeans who open windows for a breeze, Spaniards close shutters on south-facing windows by lunchtime to block solar gain. Opening the house only in the early morning allows cool air to circulate before the afternoon peak.

Checking tariffs is equally vital. Many expats remain on regulated PVPC rates, which spike during late afternoon and evening. Comparing current contracts with market alternatives before July can prevent unexpected financial strain. Preparation ensures that summer remains comfortable without becoming a financial burden for the international community.

The association cites rules contained in Royal Decree 1955/2000, which sets compensation obligations when electricity service quality standards are not met. FACUA has already filed complaints with Spain’s competition regulator against distributors including Iberdrola, Naturgy and other network operators.

Compensation depends on factors including contracted electricity capacity, hours without power and whether a property is in an urban or rural area. FACUA estimates a household with 4.4 kilowatts contracted and 12 hours without electricity could receive about €25 including taxes.

The association says some users may also qualify for additional compensation if distributors fail to respond to complaints within five working days. Consumers are being advised to check bills carefully to verify whether any reduction linked to the blackout has been applied.

euroweeklynews.com

TORREVIEJA has approved a major new project to introduce a Low Emission Zone across parts of the city as part of plans to improve air quality and modernise urban transport.

The new system will gradually regulate vehicle access in key areas of the city centre in an effort to reduce pollution, traffic congestion and noise levels.

Torre traffic

As part of the project, Torrevieja will install number plate recognition cameras, environmental sensors and a central control platform capable of monitoring traffic and air quality in real time. The system will also include a mobile app, public information campaigns and a dedicated operations centre.

Air quality sensors will measure pollutants including nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and fine

particles, along with noise levels in busy areas.

The Low Emission Zone will be introduced in two phases. The first phase focuses on the main commercial centre with 13 controlled access points, while the second phase will extend the system around a wider urban ring with 26 additional access points.

The initial installation is expected to take up to 15 weeks, although the contractor has offered to reduce that timeframe by four weeks.

RESIDENTS from across the Orihuela Costa are being invited to pull on their trainers and join Maria and the Pink Ladies for this year’s Walk for Life charity event on Sunday June 7.

The popular fundraiser will begin at around 11am from the Emerald Isle in La Florida, with participants taking on a 5km walk before returning for an afternoon of entertainment.

Registration costs €5, while children under 16 can take part free of charge. Sponsor forms are available from the Maria and the Pink Ladies office in Playa Flamenca. For more information call (+34) 633 487 595.

Everyone taking part will receive a free bottle of water provided by the Emerald Isle, along with a gift donated by Spain Property Shop.

Online registration for the walk is

Think pink

now open at http://form.jotform.com/ 260961576362060

Maria Wilson founded the Pink Ladies charity after her own breast cancer diagnosis and later secondary cancer. Since then, the organisation has grown into one of the best-known cancer support charities on the Costa Blanca, helping patients and families throughout the region.

For more information about the charity, head to the website: pink-ladies.org.

THE Costa Blanca is heading into summer with reservoir levels far higher than those seen during the recent drought crisis, easing concerns over water supplies ahead of the busy tourist season.

After two years of very low reserves, rainfall since October has significantly improved water storage across the Alicante Province. Current reservoir levels are now 58 per cent higher than this time

Reservoir revival

last year and more than double the levels recorded in 2024.

Experts say the improved situation means water supplies are fully guaranteed this summer despite the expected arrival of millions of visitors.

One of the biggest improvements has been seen at La Pedrera reservoir in Orihuela, the largest in Alicante Province. Water levels there have reached figures not recorded for more than 10 years, mainly thanks to increased transfers

from the Tagus-Segura system following heavy rainfall in central Spain.

The province’s five main reservoirs now hold a combined 168 hectometres of water.

Reservoirs including Amadorio, Guadalest and Beniarrés have also recovered strongly. Beniarrés is now close to half capacity after reaching critical levels during the drought last year.

Street beats

ORIHUELA will come alive with music, shopping and nightlife as ‘Orihuela Suena’ returns from May 22 to 24.

The event will feature concerts, DJ sessions and music workshops across different parts of the city, while local shops, bars and restaurants join in with promotions and prize giveaways.

As part of the event, shoppers spending €20 or more in participating local businesses can enter prize draws for tickets to performances at the Teatro Circo de Orihuela, including shows by Improhéroes and comedian Edu Soto. Customers simply need to upload a photo of their receipt

expected shortly.

through the official Orihuela Suena website before the draw takes place on May 25.

Organisers say the aim is to support local businesses while bringing more activity into the city centre.

One major change this year is the relocation of the closing concert on Sunday May 24 at midday. The event will now take place in Plaza Nueva, placing it closer to the city’s shops, restaurants and cafés. More promotions and announcements are also expected on the festival’s social media channels and website: orihuelasue na.com, in the days before the event begins.

MOT mayhem Garden day returns

DRIVERS across the Costa Blanca are being urged to book their ITV inspections early as waiting times begin increasing ahead of the busy summer season.

Several ITV stations in Alicante Province are already reporting major delays, with some motorists facing waits of more than 45 days for an appointment.

The longest queues are currently a ecting the centres in Benidorm, Ondara and Novelda, where available appointments have temporarily disappeared over the coming weeks.

The annual summer increase in visitors is once again placing extra pressure on the system, especially in coastal areas where demand for inspections traditionally rises.

However, not every station is fully booked yet. Drivers can still currently nd appointments within 30 days at ITV centres including Alicante, Elche, Alcoy, Orihuela, Redovan, Villena, Torrevieja and Pilar de la Horadada.

The ITV network in the Valencian Community has continued dealing with sta ng problems and service disruption since management transferred to public company Sitval.

Although conditions have improved compared with previous years, recruitment delays and sta ng shortages are still a ecting operations. Authorities are currently waiting for 73 new employees to join the network before the peak summer period begins.

Once recruitment is complete, Sitval is expected to employ more than 1,000 workers across the Valencian Community.

CAMPOVERDE Open Garden Day will return on Saturday, May 30, giving visitors the chance to explore a selection of private gardens across Pinar de Campoverde.

Running from 11am until 4pm, the event is designed as a celebration of gardening rather than a contest. From compact terraces filled with pots to larger spaces with orchards, lawns and mature planting, organisers say the day is intended to bring local gardeners together and encourage the sharing of ideas and experience.

Five gardens will take part this year, each reflecting a different style and approach. Visitors will also have the chance to speak directly with garden owners about the successes and challenges involved in creating and maintaining their spaces.

Among the properties taking part is 141 Avenida del Pino, where Camilla and Gordon have transformed a neglected plot with gravel terraces and artistic planting displays. At 146 Avenida del Pino, Gareth and Annie’s gar-

den includes mature trees, seating areas, statuary and a small putting green.

Other locations include Rita’s landscaped garden at 7 Calle Alamo, Villa Iris at 101 Avenida del Pino with its succulent wall, and 1 Calle

Entry is free and street parking is available at all properties. Donation tins will support Campoverde Church community work.

Pretty in pink

THOUSANDS of flamingo chicks have hatched once again in the lagoons of Torrevieja, turning the Costa Blanca wetland into one of the busiest breeding areas for the birds in Spain.

The Parque Natural de las Lagunas of La Mata and Torrevieja is now home to an estimated 14,000 to 18,000 flamingos, according to wildlife photographer Federico Kenzelmann. That figure includes around 7,000 to 9,000 breeding pairs.

Photos shared by Proyecto Mastral show the young chicks covered in grey down during their first days after hatching. Adult flamingos are known for their pink feathers, but the colour develops later as the birds grow.

The colony first appeared in 2020 during the Covid lockdown and has continued expanding ever since. The birds build their nests on a man-made embankment inside the salt lagoon, even though the area remains part of an active salt production site.

Experts say recent wetter years have improved feeding conditions by increasing algae and small organisms in the salty water.

Despite nearby tourism and industrial activity, the flamingos continue returning each year. Conservation groups are asking visitors to keep their distance and avoid entering the protected lagoon during the breeding season.

Wine evenings

MONOVAR is launching a new summer event combining local wine, evening views and outdoor tastings under the stars.

The ‘Night of Stars and Wine’ series will take place at the new Torre viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy guided tastings featuring wines from some of the area’s best-known producers.

Three wineries are taking part in the programme: Bodegas Ortigosa, Santa Catalina del Manyar and Bodegas Monover. Each evening will have its own theme, with the wineries presenting and explaining their wines throughout the event.

The first tasting takes place on June 12 with Bodegas Ortigosa. The evening, titled ‘History, Sea and Wine between Monovar and Tangier’, will include the chance to try the new Tangerian wine.

Santa Catalina del Man-

Visitors can enjoy guided tastings.

yar follows on June 26 with ‘Glasses and Notes at Sunset’.

The final event will be held on July 2, when Bodegas Monover presents ‘The Universe of Monastrell’, focusing on the grape variety most closely linked to the region.

Tourism councillor Mª

Amparo Maestre said the initiative aims to encourage sustainable tourism while also promoting local wineries and businesses.

Tickets cost €20 per person and places must be booked in advance through the Monovar tourist office.

Scooter invasion

AROUND 100 motorbikes from Spain and Portugal are expected to arrive in Aspe as the town hosts part of a national Suzuki Burgman gathering.

The event, organised

by a club for fans of the popular Suzuki Burgman scooter range, will take place on Saturday, May 23 and is expected to bring riders from across the Iberian Peninsula to the municipality.

The association was founded in 2004 in the Valencian Community and now has members and regional groups throughout Spain. Alongside regular monthly rides, the club organises one large national meeting every year.

An official reception organised by the town hall is planned for around 1.30pm when the riders arrive.

Club representative Enrique Vicedo said this year’s gathering is expected to attract around 100 motorcycles travelling from different regions of Spain as well as Portugal.

Participants will stop in Aspe for lunch before continuing their activities, and organisers are encouraging local residents and visitors from nearby areas to come along and enjoy the atmosphere.

A Place in the Sun

SEAGATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT attended the recent A Place in the Sun expo at the ExCel in London where over 4,000 people attended over the three days.

It was a phenomenal weekend meeting so many people looking to turn their dreams of relocating to Spain into reality. It was an absolute pleasure to connect with so many future expats, buyers and investors.

We would like to thank everyone who stopped by our stand and spoke with us. We would also like to extend a special thank you to the organisers who worked tirelessly to ensure a successful event.

As Financial Advisers supporting expats in Spain, we specialise in

helping clients make informed decisions around investments, pension transfers, and long-term financial planning. The event was an opportunity for people to get the correct advice not only from us but the lawyers who attended and whom we work closely with here in the Costa Blanca.

Timing and financial planning are vital when considering a move to Spain, so the correct advice from experts is

vitally important. Get it right the first time and avoid costly mistakes.

So, if you have questions about managing your finances before or after your move to Spain, our English-speaking advisers are here to guide you every step of the way.

Crescendo concerts

CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL

CHOIR will stage four concerts across the Costa Blanca during the coming weeks, bringing pop classics, choral works and a theatre collaboration to audiences in Benijofar and Los Montesinos.

The first performance takes place on Monday, May 25 at the Casa de Cultura in Benijofar on Calle Miguel Hernández. The free concert begins at 7pm and will include songs by The Beatles, ABBA, Coldplay and Queen, among others.

A second appearance follows on Saturday, June 6, when the choir joins the Spanish play El hombre del banco at the same venue. The production was first

presented on April 25 at Los Montesinos School of Music and Culture before a full house. During that performance, the choir sang the ‘Humming Chorus’ from Madame Butterfly, ‘Deep Peace’ by Bill Douglas and a piece blending Elvis Presley’s ‘I Believe’ with the Latin hymn ‘Ave Maria Gratia Plena’. Tickets cost €5 and the show starts at 8pm.

On June 13, Crescendo will perform popular music at Salt Church in Los Montesinos from 8pm. Admission is €5.

The choir’s spring season ends on June 15 with a 6pm concert at La Siesta Evangelical Church.

Entry is free, with donations supporting church charities.

Blue triumph

THE Costa Blanca has once again confirmed its place as one of Spain’s top beach destinations after receiving 151 Blue Flags for 2026.

The awards, granted by ADEAC, recognise beaches and marinas that meet high standards for water quality, safety, cleanliness, services and environmental management.

With 151 Blue Flags, the Valencian Community once again leads Spain ahead of Andalucia with 143 awards and Galicia with 118.

Spain also maintained its position as the world leader for Blue Flag beaches, with 677 beaches receiving the distinction this year, 35 more than in 2025 and the highest figure recorded since the programme began in 1987.

Across the Costa Blanca, dozens of beaches received recognition once again, including popular spots in Benidorm, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Guardamar, Santa Pola, Calpe and Javea.

Several beaches also gained new or resto -

red Blue Flags this year. Among them were Cala Lanuza in El Campello, Puerto Blanco and Racó in Calpe, and L’Advocat beach in Benissa.

Torrevieja collected six Blue Flags, while Orihuela Costa once again achieved awards for many of its best-known beaches including Cabo Roig, La Zenia, Campoamor and Punta Prima.

In addition to beaches, Spain also awarded 111 Blue Flags to marinas and six tourist boats.

RESIDENTS across the Costa Blanca could soon notice lower pharmacy bills following changes to Spain’s prescription medication payment system.

The updated rules o cially came into force on Thursday May 14 and change how much people contribute towards medicines obtained through Spain’s public healthcare network.

The reform introduces new payment bands based on income and is designed to reduce costs for lower-income households, pensioners and people with long-term medical conditions.

Under the new system, residents on the lowest incomes will pay no more than around €8.23 per month for state-funded prescription medication.

New contribution levels have also been created for middle and higher earners, while some vulnerable groups

Pill perks

will continue receiving medication free of charge.

The changes apply to medicines prescribed through the public healthcare system and collected from pharmacies using a SIP card or equivalent public healthcare registration.

Spanish authorities say the aim is to make essential medication more a ordable and prevent patients from facing high monthly

pharmacy costs, particularly those needing regular treatment.

Pensioners will continue bene ting from maximum payment limits, while contribution levels will still depend on income and employment status.

For many expats and residents, especially those managing chronic conditions, the new rules may bring some welcome savings at the pharmacy counter.

Coastal comeback

THE popular coastal walkway between Cala Capitán and La Caleta in Cabo Roig is reopening after emergency repair work following storm damage earlier this year.

Orihuela mayor Pepe Vegara visited the area alongside councillors Manuel Mestre and Víctor Valverde to inspect the completed works on the well-used Sendero Azul coastal path.

Heavy rain during February and March, combined with strong waves and storms, caused serious damage to parts of the stone retaining wall supporting the seafront route. In some sections, parts of the wall collapsed completely, leaving the path unsafe for pedestrians.

Before work could begin, Orihuela City Council needed approval from Spain’s coastal authority as the area forms part of

the country’s maritime public domain.

The repairs included rebuilding damaged sections of the wall using large protective rocks and reinforcing unstable ground to help prevent further collapses in the future.

Work focused on two separate sections of the route where landslides and storm damage had caused the greatest problems.

Mayor Pepe Vegara welcomed the rapid response, describing the walkway as an important space used regularly by both residents and tourists.

Councillor Manuel Mestre added that the Sendero Azul remains one of the busiest walking routes in Orihuela Costa, making the repairs especially important ahead of the summer season.

Pocket council

SANTA POLA residents can now report local problems, follow council updates and access public services directly from their phones thanks to a new mobile app launched by the town hall.

The new application, called ‘Santa Pola Contigo’, is now available for both Android and iPhone users. The platform has been designed to improve communication be tween the council and the public by creating a direct and simple way for people to report issues around the town.

One of the main features allows residents and visitors to send reports about problems such as street cleaning, broken lighting or damaged street furniture. Users can upload a photo, choose the type of issue and send the location using GPS. The relevant council department then receives the notification and can update the progress once the issue has been dealt with.

The app also brings together a wide range of local information in one pla ce, including council news, emergen cy alerts, events, social media links, weather updates, pharmacies on duty and useful telephone numbers.

access council services online, including boo - king appointments, viewing adminis

Residents can also use the app to

app brings together a wide range of local information.

History lessons

ALMORADI is giving its Earthquake Museum a new educational focus with the launch of a learning programme.

The initiative aims to help younger generations learn more about the devastating 1829 earthquake while increasing the museum’s role in local education, almost a year after it opened.

Of the 278 houses built and delivered in March 1832, a total of 124 were distributed ‘by lot’ among

widows and poor landowners. At number 33 on Calle de La Reina, named in gratitude to Her Majesty, you can find the Earthquake Museum.

In homage to the events that transformed the municipality, the Museum opens its doors in the last remaining house rebuilt after the 1829 earthquake in the newly established towns of Torrevieja, Guardamar, Benejuzar, and Almoradi.

The museum offers an

immersive experience that brings to life the impact of the earthquake on the daily lives of its inhabitants, allowing visitors to connect with the history of the municipality. Furthermore, it pays tribute to Larramendi, a key figure in the reconstruction of the affected villages.

For more information about the museum, or to book your visit, go to the website: museodelterremo to.almoradi.es .

RECYCLING large household waste in the Vega Baja has become much simpler following the opening of a new fixed ecopark in Almoradi.

Junk junction

It is the first of 12 permanent ecoparks planned across the Vega Baja region.

Residents can now

The new facility, located in the Las Maromas industrial estate, will serve more than 36,000 residents from Almoradi, Algorfa, Daya Nueva, Daya Vieja and Rafal.

dispose of more than 50 different types of household waste that cannot normally be left in street containers.

Items accepted include furniture, mattresses, electrical appliances, ba-

The ecopark covers around 2,500 square metres and has been designed to improve recycling rates while helping reduce illegal dumping in the area.

Mayor Gómez described the project as an important step for the municipality and said the new centre would make recycling easier for local residents while improving waste management across the Vega

Power pause

works on the local electricity network.

Electricity distributor i-DE says the planned interruption will take place between 8am and 11am while improvement and maintenance work is carried out to strengthen the reliability of the supply in the area.

The temporary outage will affect properties in a number of streets including Avenida Mar, Calle San Juan, Calle San Lucas, Calle San Mateo and Calle Divino Pastor.

Other affected areas include parts of Avenida Luz, Calle Unión Europea, Calle Manuel de Falla, Calle Santiago Apóstol and Calle Carlos Díez Cechini.

According to the company, the work is necessary to improve the performance and stability of the local electricity network.

Residents living in the affected areas are advised to take precautions during the scheduled interruption, particularly if they rely on electrical equipment or appliances during the morning period.

The supply is expected to return once the maintenance work has been completed.

Parachuting Princess

SPAIN’S heir to the throne, Princess Leonor, is expected to become the first member of the modern Spanish royal family to undertake formal parachute training as part of her military education. Spanish media reports state that the future queen will complete airborne instruction linked to Army training during the next phase of her preparation within Spain’s armed forces.

Leonor began officer training in 2023 at the General Military Academy, where she trained alongside Army cadets before continuing her education with the Navy aboard the training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano. Reports suggest the parachuting phase would mark the first time a Spanish royal has received this type of specialist military instruction.

The programme forms part of her preparation for her future constitutional role as Spain’s head of state and symbolic commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Her father, Felipe VI, also completed military training in the Army, Navy and Air Force before becoming king, although he reportedly did not undertake parachute instruction.

Military parachuting courses in Spain usually involve physical preparation, theory classes and supervised jumps at specialised facilities. No official timetable has been confirmed by the Royal Household or the Ministry of Defence, but the reports have attracted significant attention in Spain because of their historic nature within the monarchy.

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Your

Credit: DimaSid, Shutterstock

There is still a lot of anger around from the previous lockdown.

Would another lockdown be accepted by people today?

A RECENT poll asking whether people would accept another lockdown revealed a deeply divided public response. While some participants said they would comply if it meant protecting lives, many others expressed frustration, distrust and opposition based on their experiences during the Covid pandemic. The comments reflected a mixture of fear, defiance and fatigue that still surrounds the subject years later.

commenting, “The sad truth is that there are enough ‘sheep’ that would.”

However, not every response was completely negative. Some people reflected on the earlier lockdown period in a more accepting or even positive way.

Marjolein Parijs admitted, “I didn’t mind the lockdown. Gave me a chance to binge on series without any guilt feelings.” Sheree Ruiz also suggested another lockdown might be easier to handle personally this time around, saying: “While I would also say no, I would find a lockdown easier to endure than before because I have moved and have much more usable outdoor space.”

A number of respondents firmly rejected the idea under any circumstances. June N Maurice Johnson wrote, “I never accepted the first one!” while Clare Masters commented, “No. It was all just control.” Similar feelings were shared by Deborah Jackson , who said, “Covid was a compliance test so if you comply again you truly are brainwashed.” Vince James also questioned the legitimacy of the previous restrictions, writing: “Probably. The last one easily fooled most of the population with no evidence of any pandemic whatsoever except for a few actors on the telly.” Others believed public resistance would be far stronger now than it was during the first lockdowns. Stephen Chatt Milne said, “No. People would exercise their Democratic rights and if everyone banded together, authorities can’t lock everyone up at the same time.” Dan Nicolae took a more pessimistic view of public opinion,

There were also respondents who said they would support restrictions if there was a genuine need to protect public health. Alan Aitkenhead wrote, “If it was to protect people I would, I am not that selfish to put my family or others at risk.” His response reflected the view that, despite frustrations over the past, some people would still prioritise safety and collective responsibility during a serious crisis.

Overall, the poll showed that most people said they would not willingly accept another lockdown. Many responses revealed lingering distrust towards authorities and anger over how previous restrictions were handled.

Left without paying

A SOCIAL media report in Spain described an incident in which restaurant customers allegedly left without paying their bill, a practice known as a ‘simpa’.

The group reportedly left a handwritten note stating ‘We are leaving without paying, we asked for the bill several times’. According to the account shared online, the customers said they had requested the bill multiple times, but felt they were not attended to in time. As a result, they left without paying, leaving an explanation behind.

The incident spread quickly on social media and sparked debate among users. Some argued that delays can occur during busy periods and should be handled through communication with staff. Others insisted that leaving without paying is unacceptable under any circumstances.

Historic new US-to-Spain flight

Hospitality workers noted that restaurants often face peak-time pressure, which can delay service. They emphasised that customers usually have alternatives, such as asking again or approaching staff directly to resolve issues.

or restaurant were released, and there is no evidence of police involvement or legal action. The story remains unverified beyond social media reporting.

The case has been discussed in a broader context of how social media amplifies isolated hospitality disputes, turning them into wider debates about customer behaviour and service expectations. No identifying details about the customers

The incident continues to circulate online as an example of tension between customer expectations and operational pressures in restaurants, with opinions divided over whether the customers’ actions were understandable or unjustified.

SPAIN’S booming popularity with American travellers has received another major boost after Delta Air Lines announced the first-ever nonstop route between Seattle and Barcelona.

The new connection reflects soaring demand for Spain among US tourists, with airlines rapidly expanding transatlantic services to key Spanish destinations including Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga and Mallorca.

According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), more than four million American tourists visited Spain in 2024 - a record figure and significantly above pre-pandemic levels. US visitors are also among the country’s highest spenders, helping fuel Spain’s tourism-driven economy. Industry experts say American tourists are particularly valuable because they typically stay longer and

spend more on hotels, restaurants, shopping and luxury experiences than many European visitors. The rise is also being felt beyond tourism. Spain has seen growing numbers of Americans relocating permanently or semi-permanently, attracted by the Mediterranean lifestyle, lower living costs, healthcare access and Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa. Cities including Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga and Palma de Mallorca have all experienced increased demand from American residents and property buyers. Tourism contributes around 12 per cent of Spain’s GDP, making long-haul visitors increasingly important to the economy. Analysts believe expanded US flight routes will continue driving investment, hospitality growth and high-spending tourism across Spain.

Feria food allergy risks

SPAIN’S famous ferias, celebrated in many cities from Sevilla to Madrid, present unexpected hurdles for visitors with celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or other food sensitivities. Spain is generally praised for its high level of allergen awareness, but temporary festival kitchens remain one of the trickiest environments to navigate safely.

The primary threat is cross-contamination.

Traditional feria favourites like croquetas, churros, and beer-battered tapas are inherently wheat-based. However, even naturally gluten-free foods, such as grilled meats, fresh seafood, and paella, can quickly become unsafe if prepared in shared cooking areas, using contaminated oil, or handled with shared utensils.

Local celiac associations warn that hi -

Credit: ESMadrid

gh-pressure festival environments make regulation difficult. To stay safe, visitors are advised to attend outside peak rush hours when kitchens are less chaotic. It is crucial to ask staff directly about shared fryers and preparation surfaces using phrases like ‘sin gluten’ and ‘contaminacion cruzada’. Carrying backup snacks and using

apps to locate certified venues nearby is also highly recommended.

Food is central to Spanish celebration, making the social pressure to join in difficult for those who must constantly question staff. For future ferias, with some careful preparation and firm caution enjoying the festivities safely can be more than possible.

Whopping weddings

SPANISH weddings are shrinking in size but still growing in cost, as couples swap traditional banquets and ceremonies for multi-day ‘wedding holidays’. Industry estimates place the average Spanish wedding between €20,000 and €35,000, with premium destinations costing significantly more.

To manage rising inflation, couples are slashing guest lists from 200 people to around 60 or 80. Instead of funding distant relatives, budgets are being spent on ultra high-end food, interactive entertainment, and multi-day itineraries. Celebrations in areas like Marbella, Ibiza, and Barcelona now frequently include welcome dinners, beach club parties, catamaran trips, and recovery brunches.

Wedding planners report that orga-

nising these events now feels more like coordinating a festival with the hen and stag dos also part of the planning. Venues regularly charge between €120 and €250 per person for catering alone. To capture the experience, modern ceremonies feature Instagram-ready extras, 360-degree video booths, audio guestbooks, and dedicated social media content creators. The trend is placing financial pressure on attendees. Guests travelling to the occasions face substantial costs for flights, accommodation, and outfits to cover a full weekend of events. Consequently, some invitees are quietly declining invitations due to the cost of living crisis, further accelerating the shift towards smaller, more intimate luxury celebrations.

Customer service you can understand

FINDING a mobile or fibre provider in Spain that’s simple, trustworthy, and genuinely easy for English speakers can be a real challenge. Many expats quickly discover that navigating contracts, customer service, and technical support in Spanish can turn even basic tasks into stressful experiences. That’s exactly why Lobster has become such a standout choice for the English-speaking community across Spain. Lobster is unique, it’s the only telecom brand in Spain created specifically for English speakers.

Everything about the service is designed with this community in mind. From the moment you visit their website or download their app, you’re met with clear, friendly English. Their customer service team also is entirely in English, meaning you can finally get help, ask questions, and solve issues without relying on translation tools or struggling through language barriers. It’s a refreshing level of clarity that most expats simply aren’t used to.

Their mobile plans are straightforward and built around what English speakers in Spain actually need.

All plans include unlimited calls within Spain, as well as to the UK and many other countries, ideal for staying connected with friends and family back home. The pricing is transparent, the setup is easy, and there are no hidden surprises. It’s a mobile service that just works.

Lobster’s fibre packages are equally impressive. They offer fast, stable connections that are perfect for streaming, working remotely, gaming, or video calling loved ones abroad. Whether you’re settling into a new home or upgrading your current setup, their fibre service delivers the reliability you need without the usual complications. What really sets Lobster apart is the peace of mind it brings.

Whether you’ve just arrived in Spain or you’ve been living here for years, Lobster gives you exactly what you want from a telecom provider: fair pricing, total transparency, and customer service you can actually understand. It’s connectivity made simple, finally. If you’re an English-speaking expat looking for a mobile or fibre service that fits your life in Spain, Lobster is the easy, stress free choice.

Uber sets sail

UBER is expanding beyond taxis and food delivery by launching ‘Uber Boats’ in partnership with the charter platform Click&Boat. Rolling out in June 2026, the service will first hit major holiday hotspots including Ibiza, Mallorca, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Alicante, and Tenerife.

The collaboration’s aim is to simplify the booking process for travellers wanting to hire a boat by allowing them to browse a network of 50,000 vessels across Europe directly through the Uber app. The Spanish launch will focus primarily on skippered day charters, sightseeing excursions, and leisure experiences rather than self-drive rentals.

Demand for this kind of hire peaks during July and August, particularly in the

Balearics and the Costa del Sol. Ibiza is expected to be a primary hub, with reports suggesting moer than 1,100 boats across three ports could be available during the initial phase. Although some small vessels in Spain can be rented without a licence, most Uber Boat listings are expected to include a professional skipper as part of the package.

Industry analysts suggest the move will help local operators reach international tourists already familiar with the Uber interface. Customers are advised to book well in advance for peak summer weeks and should carefully verify insurance coverage, fuel costs, and specific departure ports before confirming their reservations.

Samaritans’ new patron

ON September 3, 2024, the Costa Blanca community was deeply saddened by the loss of their beloved Stevie Spit, a local hero who had left an indelible mark.

For Samaritans in Spain, they had not only lost their Patron but also a true friend of their charity. Therefore, when the time came to appoint a new Patron, they could think of no one more fitting than Stevie’s very close friend, Nikki Gale.

Nikki grew up in Gloucestershire and lived there for most of her life until her parents retired to Spain, where she quickly established herself as an entertainer. During this time, she formed a close, unbreakable friendship with Stevie. They performed together for many years until his sad passing.

No stranger to the world of charities, Nikki worked alongside Stevie to support his fundraising efforts, and their shared

love of helping others brought them even closer.

On accepting the role of Patron of Samaritans in Spain, Nikki said, “Having now lost both of my parents and faced many personal struggles of my own, I feel a deep connection to Samaritans in Spain. I am committed to raising awa-

reness and funds for this vital charity wherever I can.”

Samaritans in Spain provides a confidential listening service to ALL English speakers in Spain. FREEPHONE 900 525 100 from 10am to midnight. www.samaritansinspain. com

AVE expansion

SPAIN’S rail operator

Adif is planning a major expansion of the high-speed AVE network under the Atlantic Corridor strategy, aiming to place a station within a 30-minute drive for around 90 per cent of residents in western Spain by 2030. The project is part of an EU-backed transport programme designed to improve rail links across Spain and strengthen connections with Portugal and France.

The corridor currently includes 33 stations across eight regions, but this is expected to rise to 62 stations across 11 regions by 2030. It focuses on western and northern Spain, including Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country, Castilla and Leon, Extremadura, Madrid and parts of Andalucia.

Cities expected to benefit include Lugo, Ferrol, Salamanca, Santander, Gijon, Aviles, Pamplona, Badajoz, Ponferrada and Huelva. The plan also includes improved connections to Madrid-Barajas Airport and the Basque ‘Y Vasca’ network linking major Basque cities.

By 2030, around 20.7 million people

are expected to live within 30 minutes of a high-speed station, rising to 26.8 million within one hour. Accessibility is projected to increase significantly in regions such as Extremadura, Galicia and Castilla and Leon.

The programme forms part of the EU’s trans-European transport network, with billions of euros in investment and major construction projects already underway, including the Burgos-Vitoria line. The aim is to improve passenger travel, boost freight transport and support economic development across less connected regions.

UK’s most wanted

BRITISH and Spanish authorities have renewed efforts to locate 11 of the UK’s most wanted fugitives believed to be hiding in Spain, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. The campaign, presented in Alicante by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) with Spanish law enforcement, targets individuals linked to organised crime.

The fugitives are wanted for offences including drug trafficking, firearms crimes, fraud and money laundering. Several are accused of large-scale cocaine importation, cannabis trafficking operations and involvement in organised criminal networks. Authorities believe some suspects may be using false identities and established expatriate communities to evade capture.

The campaign coincided with the arrest of one suspect who was 12th on the list in Alicante during

a separate Guardia Civil operation targeting drug trafficking and document fraud. Officers discovered a suitcase containing 16 kilograms of hashish destined for the UK, leading to arrests in Benidorm and La Nucia.

Four people were arrested in total, with police seizing drugs, cash, false documents and vehicles. One suspect is now facing extradition to the UK. The operation involved close cooperation be -

tween Spanish and British agencies, highlighting ongoing international coordination. Authorities say Spain remains a key location for fugitives due to transport links, foreign communities and criminal networks. The campaign aims to encourage public assistance in locating suspects and strengthening cross-border enforcement against organised crime operating between the UK and Spain.

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Fish Prices Rise

FISH consumption in Spain is declining as prices rise and household budgets tighten. Prices have increased by around 8 per cent in the past year, while consumption has fallen by approximately 30 per cent over the last decade. More than 5,000 fishmongers have closed during this period due to reduced demand. Rising fuel, transport and operating costs have increased prices throughout the seafood supply chain, making fish less affordable for many households. As a result, consumers are reducing purchases or switching to cheaper alternatives such as chicken, pasta or processed foods. Younger generations are contributing to the decline, often prioritising convenience foods that require less preparation. Traditional fish markets are losing ground to supermarkets offering frozen

or packaged seafood at lower prices. Coastal economies, especially in regions like Galicia, are feeling the impact as reduced demand affects fishing, distribution and retail sectors. Some authorities have introduced voucher schemes to encourage fish consumption and support local businesses.

The decline raises cultural concerns because fish is central to the Mediterranean diet and Spanish culinary tradition. Restaurants are adapting by increasing prices, reducing portions or switching to cheaper species. Tourism is also affected, with seafood dishes becoming more expensive in coastal destinations. Despite its cultural importance, fish is increasingly less central to everyday diets due to affordability pressures and changing consumption habits across Spain.

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Gibraltar confiscates scooters

GIBRALTAR began confiscating electric scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h from May 18 under new road safety regulations covering Personal Light Electric Transporters. The rules apply to scooters and similar battery-powered vehicles widely used for short-distance travel within the territory and across the nearby Spanish border. Under the new system, enforcement officers will be able to stop and inspect scooters using speed detection equipment. Any vehicle found to exceed the 25km/h limit, or modified to do so, may be seized. Owners will only be able to recover confiscated scooters if they are brought into compliance with the rules or formally registered under Gibraltar’s licensing system.

Magnus on the move

MAGNUS the walrus spent most of April dazzling locals as he explored the Scottish coastline. But, ever the explorer, Magnus has made the long journey across the North Sea, swapping Scotland for Norway.

The arctic mammal was first spotted on the Stronsay Pier in Scotland on April 16. From there, he was seen up and down Scotland’s coast, from the Isle of Stronsay to Findochty.

The government says the measures are intended to improve safety in busy urban areas where pedestrian movement and scooter use have increased. Officials have raised concerns about speeding, pavement use and collisions in high-traffic zones.

The regulations are expected to affect

cross-border commuters who travel daily between Spain and Gibraltar. Many use scooters to avoid congestion and limited parking, but the new rules will apply regardless of where the vehicle was purchased or registered. Scooters legal under Spanish rules may still be confiscated if they exceed Gibraltar’s limit once inside the territory. Spain already applies a similar 25km/h restriction for electric scooters, although enforcement differs. Further measures, including possible insurance or registration requirements, are being considered by Gibraltar authorities.

It wasn’t too long after his arrival that locals christened him ‘Magnus’, a name fitting his 8ft frame. Magnus quickly attracted a crowd of adoring fans and kept them entertained with his funny antics, like falling asleep too close to the edge of a pontoon and falling into the water still sleeping.

The beloved walrus has now taken his tour international. Birdwat-

chers in Buerholmen, Norway were among the first to spot him relaxing on a floating dock. They reported him looking tired, no doubt due to the 400-mile swim across the North Sea.

It’s rare for walruses to travel so far south. However, the climate crisis is changing that. Ex-

perts suggest more and more walruses are expected to visit UK shores in the coming years as their Arctic ice habitats shrink.

As summer creeps closer, Magnus will continue to follow the tides, in search of the coldest depths he can find, entertaining locals along the way.

I’m showing my age

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ALMOST unbelievably the world is now in a panic because Artificial Intelligence is supposedly about to take over civilisation, and all happening while half the population still can’t work a washing machine without watching a tutorial film created by a teenager called Kyle. Well, I’m pretty convinced that if the robots are coming, they’ll take one look at us and quietly back away. Everywhere you turn now, somebody’s warning us that AI will replace humanity.

Replace it with what exactly? More people staring blankly into phones while walking into lamp-posts? From where I’m sitting, humanity’s already doing a splendid job of switching itself off without technological assistance. And here’s what really makes me laugh. We’re told all this ‘progress’ is designed to make life easier. Easier? Since when? Years ago, if your television broke, a bloke called Dennis came round with a screwdriver and

fixed it with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth. Today, the television politely informs you there’s a ‘connectivity issue’ and suggests downloading an update roughly the size of Belgium. Nothing works anymore unless it’s connected to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, an app, a charger, a password, and apparently the moon aligning with Jupiter. Even reversing a car has become an international operation. Cameras, sensors, warning alarms, coloured lines flashing all over the dashboard like Cape Canaveral and people still manage to end up halfway through the neighbour’s hedge. In my day, you looked behind you and hoped for the best.

And don’t get me started on ‘smart homes’. I know a man on Mallorca whose new house is so intelligent he can no longer switch his own lights on without speaking to a small glowing cylinder called Olivia or Alexa or whatever her name is this week. It actually isn’t machines getting smarter, it’s humans getting lazier. Nobody remembers anything because the phone remembers it for them. Nobody reads maps because the sat-nav speaks. Nobody settles arguments in the pub be-

cause somebody immediately Googles the answer before you’ve even finished your sentence. Half the things we once learned through experience are now outsourced to a screen. And yet, despite all this magnificent innovation, ordinary life somehow gets more complicated by the week. Want to pay a bill? Password required. Forgotten password? Create another password. New password rejected, because it lacks a hieroglyph and a sample of your DNA. Lovely. Now perhaps the ol’ boy is just showing his age. Maybe this is the future and I should embrace it. But I can’t help noticing that the more ‘advanced’ things become, the less capable people seem to feel without assistance. We’ve created machines that can imitate human thinking, while humans themselves are slowly giving it up voluntarily. That’s the bit nobody mentions. Artificial Intelligence may well be extraordinary. But Natural Intelligence used to be quite useful too. I dunno. Getting old Leapy? Ah well.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

New tourist municipalities

THE Junta de Andalucia has declared Cortegana, Zuheros and Nigüelas as new tourist municipalities, recognising their visitor numbers and tourism activity despite small populations.

The designation is given to towns that meet criteria including accommodation capacity, cultural heritage, visitor numbers and tourism infrastructure. It aims to support municipalities managing tourism pressure while improving access to funding and regional support.

Cortegana in Huelva is known for its medieval castle, hiking routes and rural tourism. Zuheros in Cordoba sits within the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park and attracts visitors for its historic centre, caves and olive oil tourism. Nigüelas in Granada is located in the Lecrín Valley and draws rural tourists and walkers near the Sierra Nevada foothills.

The status recognises that tourism places pressure on local services, particularly during peak seasons. These include waste management, parking, transport and public facilities. For residents, the designation may bring increased funding for infrastructure, cultural projects and visitor services. It may also support local businesses such as restaurants, rural accommodation and shops by increasing visibility.

However, concerns remain about how increased tourism could affect housing, infrastructure and daily life in smaller communities. Authorities argue the designation helps distribute tourism more evenly across inland and coastal areas.

Flip-flop fines

THOSE who wear flip-flops and are heading to Europe this summer are being warned that wearing flip-flops in the wrong place could lead to unexpected fines, as authorities step up seasonal safety campaigns. Although social media claims suggest the footwear is banned across southern Europe, tourists are actually penalised for the safety risks it creates rather than the shoes themselves.

In Spain, motorists face fines of up to €200 if traffic police decide their footwear prevents safe control of a vehicle. Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) clarified that no specific law bans flip-flops, but regulations require drivers to maintain control at all ti mes. Loose sandals, high heels, or driving barefoot can lead to penalties

if they interfere with pedal control or cause dangerous driving.

Italy has taken a tougher stance along the Ligurian coast. Tourists hiking the steep trails of the Cinque Terre National Park risk massive fines ranging from €50 to €2,500 for wearing flip-flops, sandals, or other unsuitable shoes. Authorities introduced the penalties following repeated mountain rescue incidents involving ill-equipped day-trippers.

Visitors travelling this summer should keep proper driving shoes in their hire cars and wear sturdy trainers or hiking boots on mountain paths to avoid spoiling their holi-

Child bus thief

NORWEGIAN police intercepted a stolen bus on Sunday, May 17, after motorists raised alarms about erratic driving by an extremely young driver. Officers halted the vehicle on the E39 highway west of Kristiansand. Empty of passengers, the bus had travelled more than 300 kilometres from the Oslo area.

Can you really drive safely in flip-flops?

ILLEGAL contraband is constantly being smuggled across borders from knock-off merchandise to drugs and weapons, and even, apparently, sausages.

French police recently arrested two Belgians for illegally smuggling currywurst, frikandel and merguez sausages across the France-Belgium border. Crime doesn’t sleep, but it does snack.

Reports emerged around 5.40am concerning a very young person driving a bus west along the E18. Police stopped the vehicle shortly afterwards. Operations manager Ronny Aateigen Andersen confirmed the driver was a 14-year-old boy, who is now in the care of police and child welfare services.

This incident is the minor’s third bus theft in six months. In April, the boy allegedly took a bus from Oslo and drove it across the border into Sweden, where police stopped him near Stenungsund. In November, he reportedly stole a bus in Stavanger, driving it locally for three hours before returning it.

Police described the latest event as very serious.

Eastern Police District operations manager Rune Isaksen stated that authorities view these repeated actions with grave concern. Andersen noted that other motorists reacted strongly because of the driving style and the driver’s age, adding that the lengthy journey thankfully caused no injuries. Unibuss chief executive Atle Rønning verified ownership of the vehicle but declined to comment

Bangers and cash seized

As part of a larger operation, French authorities followed the unlawful links back to an illegal meat-process operation run out of a garage in northern France. Inside, police found a make-shift butchers, complete with meat-grinders, knives and hundreds of kilos of meat stored in unsafe conditions.

It was here where food products were prepared before being transported across the border and sold to Belgian chip shops. Police also report seizing tens of thousands of euros in cash, likely profits from the dodgy sausage dealings. This isn’t simply a case of an establishment having poor

hygiene bad enough to raise eyes from health inspectors. Producing, buying and serving illegally processed meat, in breach of food safety standards and protocols, represents a clear disregard for public safety. The investigation is still ongoing, with police tracing past orders to participating bars and restaurants. At this stage, it is reported no French establishments are believed to have been involved.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Primark expands

AFTER conquering the UK, Primark is expanding its US operations. The Irish-fashion brand recently expanded its retail presence to 40 stores, including a four-storey flagship store in New York, directly across from Macy’s. Located in a prime spot, the shop is expected to generate €85 million in annual sales.

Copper highs

THE price of copper has reached unprecedented highs. Recently at the London Metal Exchange, copper finished a trading day above $14,000 (€11,959) for the first time. The surge is linked to a shortage of raw materials, worsened by the ongoing war and restriction of key exports.

Nissan layoffs

NISSAN has announced its plan to axe 900 jobs across Europe. Approximately 211 positions will be affected in Spain, a 37 per cent reduction of its Spanish work force. Layoffs will be concentrated in the spare-parts department as the Japanese automaker restructures to save €2.7 billion and return to profitability.

Profits hit

THE Iran conflict has left a €2 billion dent in British Airways’ profits; the annual fuel bill exceeding €9 billion, up from the €7.1 billion forecast. To recoup at least 60 per cent of losses, the airline is upping its fares for its premium brand, but not its sister airlines.

Datacentres drain

IN 2026, the global investment in AI reached £740 billion, nearly 1 per cent of the global economy. However, new concerns have arisen around AI energy usage. In the UK, AI datacentres consume 6 per cent of electricity, up from 2025’s usage prediction of 2.5 per cent.

Spain’s population increased by 97,021 people during the first quarter of 2026 and stood at 49,687,120 inhabitants as of April 1. STAT OF WEEK

Short-term surge Bid rejected

As spring turns to summer, three things are guaranteed in Spain: warm weather, tourists arriving in droves and short-term seasonal rentals flooding the real estate market. For visitors, short term rentals are a more appealing alternative to hotels, offering more independence and oftentimes a cheaper rate. For residents, it’s a frustrating phenomenon that vastly impacts their ability to find permanent accommodation.

In the first quarter of 2026, short term tourist rentals made up 27 per cent of the real estate market, representing a 22 per cent year on year increase. Meanwhile, permanent rentals decreased by 3 per cent in the same period according to Idealista. The yearly surge in seasonal rentals adds further pressure to cities already tight on space.

The government has made a

concerted effort in recent years to reduce the number of short-term accommodations available. In 2025, stricter rental restrictions came into force which required seasonal lets to be registered and obtain a rental code. Consequently, Airbnb was fined €64 million for listing tourist accommodations that didn’t comply with these new requirements, and more than 80,000 illegal listings

Singer sues Samsung

BRITISH pop-star Dua Lipa is suing Samsung for £11 million. She alleges the electronics company has been using her image to promote and sell televisions without her consent and without fair financial compensation.

For some time now, Samsung’s TV packaging has been printed with an image of Lipa front and centre. When Lipa first became aware of the matter in June 2025, she contacted the company and requested they stop using her likeness. This request was ignored.

The lawsuit, filed in the US, claims Samsung financially benefited from using Lipa’s likeness, stating her association with the brand was misinterpreted as an endorsement. Lipa’s team described the incident as ‘making a mockery of her hard work in establishing a successful brand’.

Additionally, Lipa owns the copyright of the photo -

were removed. Despite the preventative legislation, Barcelona remains the city with the largest supply of seasonal rentals. Approximately 55 per cent of Barcelona’s real estate market is classified as such. In Andalucia, Malaga and Seville have the highest level of short-term rentals, making up 28 per cent of the

graph used. As such the lawsuit includes allegations of copyright infringement, trademarks infringement and misappropriation of Dua Lipa’s likeness.

Ready meal uproar Shopping trends

THE Spanish population have become avid online consumers, with new TGM research revealing 80 per cent of residents make monthly online purchases. The report highlighted ease and convenience as the main retail trends, with fast and free shipping being big deciders for completing purchases. It also noted consumers are no longer loyal to specific brands, preferring to shop around for bargains. According to CNMC, e-commerce revenue reached €29 billion in 2025.

SUPERMARKETS’ newest ready-meal business model is a time-saver for hungry shoppers, but poses a threat to Spain’s hospitality industry. The president of Hosteleria de España recently criticised the in-store prepared food section, warned of the damage they could cause to independent businesses and called for stricter regulations. Since they hit the shelves, ready-toeat meals have become a key part of Mercadona’s business model. In fact, Mercadona has managed to capture 51.2 per cent of the market value of the ready meal sector, with Carrefour and Lidl lagging behind with 9.9 per cent and 8.1 per cent, respectively

Employment paradox

IT’S a concerning quirk of Spain’s employment model that, despite strong job creation, unemployment levels remain high and many industries struggle with labour shortages.

A recent Bank of Spain survey revealed this paradox is created, not by a lack of applicants, but a lack of skilled workers. The jobs are there, but potential new hires are not equipped to immediately take over the roles.

According to Eurostat, 18.2 per cent of Spain’s workforce, roughly 4.69 people willing to work, is going to waste. This includes people who are actively seeking employment, and overqualified workers stuck in part-time roles.

IN early May, US video game retailer GameStop made a surprise €47.2 billion bid for second-hand site eBay. However, eBay rejected the offer, describing it as ‘neither credible nor attractive’.

GameStop’s near €10 billion market value was just a fraction of eBay’s €39 billion. Since announcing the failed takeover proposal, shares have fallen by more than 12 per cent and Chief Executive, Ryan Cohen has been ridiculed for failing to explain how he expected to afford the deal.

Essentials only

SEVERAL surveys suggest the cost of living crisis is only going to worsen. As such, families are hunkering down, cutting out luxuries and prioritising essentials. According to Barclays, April saw a 0.1 per cent fall in card spending compared to a year prior, meanwhile non-essential spending fell by 0.3 per cent. One of the few luxuries Britons are allowing themselves is television subscriptions, which jumped 9.2 per cent in April, a sign people are staying in and saving money.

Labour danger

UNCERTAINTY within the Labour government, potential tax changes and unannounced spending plans have caused long-term UK borrowing costs to soar. For the first time since the 2008 financial crisis, the interest rate on borrowing over 10 years briefly hit 5.13 per cent. Questions over potential leadership changes also led to the FTSE 100 falling more than 1 per cent in opening trade and the pound falling 0.5 per cent against the dollar to $1.35.

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Auto Trader Group Plc 487,10 489,65 486,00 174,08K

Aviva 622,80 623,60 617,20 527,89K

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Barclays 419,80 421,80 417,95 1,37M

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British American Tobacco 4.923,0 4.932,0 4.874,0 145,93K

BT Group 227,53 228,00 226,40 329,85K

Bunzl 2.326,0 2.338,0 2.318,0 12,41K

Centrica 189,95 191,85 189,05 311,07K

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.102,0 4.118,0 4.094,0 4,31K

Compass 31,96 32,20 31,95 40,48K

ConvaTec Group 208,00 208,00 206,20 55,93K Croda Intl 2.734,0 2.744,0 2.700,0 1,73K

5.865,0 5.890,0 5.860,0 1,18K

1.536,0 1.546,5 1.531,5 201,58K

6.640,00 6.677,62 6.610,00 9,68K

523,29 527,20 521,79 109,21K

Golden Leaves International continues major expansion across Spain

WHAT began as an important operational move in March is now proving to be a major statement of confidence, growth, and long-term commitment to the expatriate community in Spain.

Golden Leaves International’s decision to open its new flagship Head Office in Algorfa was not simply about relocating premisesit marked the beginning of an exciting new phase for one of the most recognised and trusted funeral planning companies serving international residents across Spain.

Following a period of exceptional growth, the company’s Spanish operation has expanded dramatically, with its team now 10 times larger than before, reflecting the increasing number of expatriates and international families seeking security, reassurance, and professional guidance when planning for the future.

Since officially bringing all operations together under one roof at the impressive new La Finca headquarters on March 31, 2026, Golden Leaves International says the response from

both existing and new clients has been overwhelmingly positive.

The modern centralised Head Office has allowed the company to further strengthen customer support, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the personal level of service that has become synonymous with the Golden Leaves name throughout Spain.

At a time when more international residents are choosing to make Spain their permanent home, many families are recognising the importance of having funeral plans properly organised, professionally managed, and safely protected for the future.

Golden Leaves International has built its reputation by offering precisely that peace of mind.

Importantly, the company has reassured all existing clients that there have been absolutely no changes to funeral plans, payment structures, or terms and conditions, with all customer funds continuing to remain securely protected in trust under strict

UK regulation.

For many clients, the expansion sends a powerful message - that Golden Leaves International is not only growing but investing heavily in Spain for the long term.

The company says its new Head Office represents a major investment into future expansion, customer care, and continued support for expatriate families across the country.

As demand for trusted funeral planning services continues to rise, Golden Leaves International is encouraging anyone who has not yet explored their options to speak confidentially with one of its experienced advisors.

Planning ahead not only removes emotional and financial pressure from loved ones, but also ensures that personal wishes are clearly documented and protected.

The company is now welcoming both existing and new clients to its impressive new premises in Algorfa.

Contact Golden Leaves International today Golden Leaves International, Calle Albatera 1-68, Urb La Finca, 03169 Algorfa, Alicante, open 24 hours a day, +34 965 020 105 info@goldenleavesinternational.com

Whether you are looking for reassurance, information, or simply peace of mind for the future, the Golden Leaves team says there has never been a better time to start the conversation.

Back to the Future

FANS of classic Rock & Roll are in for a treat this May as Chester Rock & Grill hosts a special live music event inspired by the sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s.

On Friday May 29, The Rock and Rollers will take to the stage with their energetic ‘Back to the Future’ themed show, promising a night packed with vintage hits, retro style and plenty of dancing.

Starting at 9.30pm, the performance will feature well-known songs from some of Rock & Roll’s biggest names, including Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley,

Ritchie Valens, Gene Vincent and Little Richard.

Organisers say the show is designed to recreate the atmosphere of a classic American jukebox era, complete with vintage outfits, audience participation and great performances throughout the night.

Guests are encouraged to reserve tables in advance as organisers expect

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH Tasty Tipsy

RESTAURANT REVIEW

WE recently visited Tipsy Terrace on Calle Padre Claret, 18 in Hondon de los Frailes and came away really impressed. From the moment we arrived, the staff were welcoming and friendly.

The restaurant itself is spacious, with a large terrace and lovely garden area that makes it a great place to sit and enjoy a meal. There is also easy parking nearby, which always makes a visit much more convenient.

strong demand for the event. Reservations can be made by calling (+34) 865 753 605 or emailing info@rockbarchester.com

There is a minimum spend of €15 per person for reserved tables during concert nights.

Chester Rock & Grill is located at Calle Mar Egeo, 2, 03177 San Fulgencio, Alicante.

Musical maestro

IF you are looking for a fun night out with plenty of music, laughs and familiar songs, Studio 32’s production of 9 to 5 The Musical could be just the ticket.

Taking place at the Cardinal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio, the show is based on the hit film and features music and lyrics written by Dolly Parton especially for the stage version.

Set in the late 1970s, the musical follows three women working in an office ruled by a difficult and sexist boss. After finally reaching breaking point, Violet, Judy and Doralee come up with a plan to turn the tables on the man making their lives miserable.

finish.

What follows is a fast-moving comedy packed with music, friendship and plenty of revenge, as the women begin transforming the workplace while their boss is unexpectedly out of the picture.

Studio 32’s latest version promises a great evening with energetic performances and well-known songs that will have audiences tapping along from start to

One thing that stood out immediately was the menu. There is a really good choice available at very reasonable prices. We were especially impressed with the vegetarian options. It can sometimes be difficult to find restaurants that offer a proper vegetarian menu with plenty of choice, but Tipsy Terrace has clearly put thought into catering for everyone.

The food was absolutely delicious. Everything we ordered was fresh, full of flavour and generously portioned. ‘Tasty Tipsy’ definitely seems like the perfect way to describe it. By the end of the meal, we all agreed that the chef deserves a pay rise.

While chatting with other customers,

While chatting with other customers, we heard plenty of praise for the Sunday dinners, with several people saying they are a must try. The entertainment evenings also sound very popular and are meant to be a brilliant night out with good food and a great atmosphere.

Tipsy Terrace is open Sunday from 11.00am until 6.00pm, Monday and Tuesday from 11.00am until 11.00pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11.00am until 11.00pm. The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

To book a table, call 655 186 590.

Performances take place on Wednesday May 27, Thursday May 28 and Friday May 29 at 7.30pm, with two shows on Saturday May 30 at 2pm and 7.30pm. Tickets cost €12 and can be booked online at studiothirtytwo.org or by calling (+34) 679 062 272.

The Cardinal Belluga Theatre is located on Calle Rojales, 16, San Fulgencio, Alicante.

EU train tickets

THE European Commission aims to simplify international rail travel across the European Union by introducing rules for integrated ticketing. The reform would allow passengers to purchase a single ticket covering journeys operated by multiple rail companies across different countries. Currently, cross-border travel is often complicated, requiring travellers to navigate various websites with differing rules and refund conditions. When journeys are booked separately, passengers frequently lose their legal protections if a delay causes a missed connection, often forcing them to purchase new tickets at their own expense.

Under the new proposal, rail companies would be required to share timetable and ticket data with online booking platforms. This would enable travellers to compare and purchase international journeys in one place. Crucially, the reform introduces stronger protections for those buying multi-operator trips in a single transaction.

Passengers would gain clearer rights to rerouting, reimbursement, accommodation assistance, and compensation during disruptions. The company responsible for a delay would handle compensation, while onward operators must still assist passengers in continuing their journey.

Bambi on the beer

FRENCH police have issued an official road safety warning following viral footage of a ‘drunk’ deer. The video, filmed in the Saône-et-Loire department, shows the animal stumbling and running in erratic circles. It has already attracted over 300,000 views, with social media users comparing the scene to ‘Bambi after an aperol’.

The proposal also targets market competition. Operators controlling more than half of a national market may eventually be forced to display rival offers and allow competitors to sell tickets through their systems. According to Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the goal is to make European travel simpler, smarter, and more comfortable. This initiative aligns with the EU’s push for greener transport, encouraging rail over short-haul flights. The proposal now awaits approval from EU member states and the European Parliament.

The phenomenon occurs during spring when wild animals consume sugary buds, decaying vegetation, or fermented fruit. These natural food sources contain alcohol that can trigger unpredictable behaviour, often more potent than the effects of a glass of wine on a human.

While the footage has caused amusement, the police stressed the genuine hazard to motorists. Inebriated deer lose their natural caution and may bolt across

roads, zigzag into traffic, or become immobilised in the path of oncoming vehicles. These incidents are particularly common on secondary roads and at night.

Drivers are asked to reduce their speed and maintain extra vigilance in wooded areas. Police advise against sudden steering manoeuvres if an animal appears, as its movements will be entirely erratic. France’s tipsy deer is not an isolated case. Similar behaviour has been recorded in Swedish moose eating fermented apples and songbirds in North America overindulging on spring berries. As experts note, almost any animal can experience the effects of intoxication when nature’s larder begins to ferment.

Spanish streets, strutting chickens!

REPORTS in the British press of a pigeon-hunting vigilante allegedly taking aim with an air rifle in Norwich bring to mind a rather more feathered fiasco recently reported in these pages.

Norwich’s historic open-air market - one of England’s oldest - has endured more than a year under siege from pigeons, much to traders’ dismay over hygiene/health concerns. The city council’s earlier schemes - ranging from avian birth control via contraceptive feed to the theatrical deployment of a hawk - were both derailed by campaigners. Now, unease is growing that a vigilante’s decided to intervene personally.

And in Spain? Dawn is often heralded by church bells. In Torrevieja, it

came courtesy of 700 roosters clearing their throats. Branded an ‘invasion’ by local media, these birds strutted through parks, patrolled supermarket entrances, were even spotted lingering outside the local KFC - gallows humour not lost on residents.

City hall took a dim view. Contracts were issued, yet just 20 per cent removed so far.

Not everyone was charmed: driveways bore the evidence, the crowing was incessant and drivers quite literally had to wait for the chicken to cross the road!

Yet many objected to any cull. Visitors found them delightful. Locals said they enlivened parks.

One widower even switched on a fountain daily to chat to them.

For some, a nuisance - though thankfully without air rifles. For others, simply Spain being Spain!

Thanks for emails to my website below! Thrilled you enjoy my column –and novels!

Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

SPRING is in full swing and while temperatures are slowly rising, evenings can get chilly once the sun goes down.

This can make getting dressed in the morning a complicated endeavour. But the secret to dressing for spring is all in the fabrics. The right fabrics help you stay cool during the day while still feeling comfortable in cooler mornings and evenings.

Cotton is one of the most dependable choices. It is breathable, soft, and easy to wear in many forms. Lightweight versions such as poplin are crisp and structured, while jersey cotton offers a more relaxed feel for everyday outfits. Linen is another key fabric for spring. It allows air to flow easily and keeps the body cool in warmer conditions. Although it wrinkles quickly, this texture often adds to

its natural look. For slightly dressier outfits, silk and silk blends are ideal. They feel smooth on the skin and adjust well to changing temperatures, making them suitable for both daytime and evening wear.

Chambray provides a softer alternative to de-

nim, offering a similar appearance without the weight. Lightweight denim itself can also work well for trousers and jackets when the weather is mild.

Overall, spring fabrics focus on lightness, breathability, and comfort while still allowing style and structure.

MOST people feel clean and confident with freshly washed hair, but over washing can cause a lot of beauty problems.

Hair produces natural oils, known as sebum. This is what keeps strands soft, shiny and protected. Frequent washing doesn’t fortify the strands, it strips away these essential oils, leaving hair dry, brittle and far more prone to breakage.

Shampooing is meant to clean the scalp, but ironically it can make hair greasier.

When too much oil is washed away, the scalp will over compensate by producing an excess. This can leave people trapped in a frustrating cycle of washing more often to tackle the very problem they are worsening.

Scalp health can also decline with over washing. Some people experience irritation, tightness or flaking because the skin’s natural barrier becomes disrupted. This damage can be worsened by using fragrance heavy products or harsh sulphates.

There’s no one recommended hair washing technique, opinions differ depending

on hair type. People with very oily scalps, fine hair or active lifestyles may prefer washing more frequently, while those with curly, textured or dry hair often benefit from washing less.

Ultimately, it comes down to how the hair feels. If hair feels greasy, itchy or weighed down, it may be time for a wash. If it feels dry, frizzy or brittle, cutting back could help restore balance.

A BALANCED diet and a consistent exercise schedule are all important to maintaining a healthy life, but they’re not the most crucial ingredient for longevity, a flourishing social life is. Research shows that strong relationships are consistently linked to longer life expectancy, better mental health and lower risk of chronic illness.

It’s common knowledge that mental health is improved by social connection. Where loneliness worsens disorders like anxiety and depression, social interaction, whether regular outings or a simple

Stay social

conversation, helps the brain find balance and better regulate.

Not only being surrounded by people, but actively interacting with others helps to reduce stress and regulate cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. Less stress reduces the strain on the heart and immune system, lowering the risk of heart disease.

Social interactions are a positive influence on everyday habits. Being surrounded by loved ones

encourages healthy behaviours, whether that’s being active, eating better or regularly attending medical appointments. Isolation, on the other hand, can cause people to develop poor routines that worsen over time due to lack of motivation.

When it comes to socialising quality trumps quantity. A few close, supportive relationships can be more beneficial than a large number of superficial connections.

Pocket paramedic

Why I smuggled a £3,500 oximeter onto the London Underground

DR MARCUS

STEPHAN

AT the start of my career, I worked in central London and commuted home on the Underground. More often than not, I would fall into a deep, almost coma-like sleep during the journey. While I certainly worked hard, I began to suspect that the stale air on the deeper underground lines by the end of the day might also have contributed to my fatigue.

Around that time, one of the respiratory clinics attached to where I worked received a delivery of new ‘portable’ oxygen monitors, known as oximeters. These devices work by passing a specific wavelength of red light through a finger; the amount of light transmitted is used to calculate how much oxygen the blood is carrying, we talk about blood saturation, so you cannot have a greater level than 100 per cent. The device performs the necessary calculations and displays the result as a percentage.

You have to remember this was pre-iPhone and all things miniature and we all thought it was truly amazing. As is well-known, blood carries oxygen throughout the body, where it is used as fuel for essential functions. When oxygen levels drop, it is comparable to a battery running low - performance declines. The brain is typically affected first, which explains why we often feel drowsy or lethargic in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces. This ‘stuffy’ sensation is usually relieved quickly upon stepping into fresh air.

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/

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Movie shoot

FILMING for the action thriller Retribution will arrive in Puerto Banus this June. Production crews are scheduled to board the Malex superyacht, berthed at the marina, for a brief early morning session. Cameras will roll on Tuesday, June 24 to record a short but vital sequence.

Director Craig Dowsett, leading CD Productions, will oversee the shoot. The plot follows an illegal arms syndicate operating across Europe. One actor portrays a gang leader based in Spain whose delivery faces delays caused by the protagonist, Priest.

The story centres on betrayal and revenge. Priest is an ex-special forces soldier double-crossed by his partner during a mission to dismantle an arms ring. Left for dead, he recovers to launch a campaign of destruction against the gangs while seeking personal vengeance.

Further activity involves filming B-roll material at various locations over the following days.

Axarquia

Cruise influx

MOTRIL welcomed a major boost to its local economy this week as two major cruise ships docked at the port, bringing thousands of international visitors to the town’s streets.

The luxury vessel Seabourn Quest arrived from Gibraltar at 8am on Wednesday, May 13, carrying 436 passengers primarily from Britain, Canada, and the United States. It was followed at 10am by the 294-metre Norwegian Dawn, which carried 2,332 passengers and nearly 1,000 crew members.

The influx of tourists provided a busy day for local businesses, with shopkeepers reporting increased activity. Local merchants noted that visitors frequently purchased traditional souvenirs, including leather goods and clothing.

Food and drink establishments also prospered; bakeries reported high demand for regional sweets, while delicatessens sold large quantities of vacuum-packed Iberian ham and local beers to tourists seeking authentic flavours.

Mallorca Balearic Boating Day

MALLORCA is taking centre stage in this year’s Balearic Boating Day celebrations as the island hosts a packed programme of free nautical events until May 23.

The initiative forms part of the international World Boating Day campaign and aims to bring the maritime sector closer to the public through tours, workshops and hands-on experiences.

Several leading names from Mallorca’s boating industry will open their facilities during the week, including STP Shipyard Palma and Astilleros de Mallorca. Guided visits will allow participants to explore two of the Mediterranean’s best-known refit yards and gain insight into superyacht maintenance and repair projects. Transport between the sites will be on an electric X Shore boat.

Port Adriano will also play a major role by hosting the Balearic Boating Festival on May 23. The event will feature sea trips, watersports, workshops, paddle surf, jet ski activities, talks and food stalls.

Costa Blanca North Denia moves

DENIA’S town centre turned into a giant open-air stage on Saturday, May 16, as dancers, acrobats and street performers filled plazas and avenues during the fourth edition of the DAMA Festival of movement and street arts.

Organised by Denia Town Hall’s Department of Culture, the free festival transformed Marqués de Campo and Plaça del Consell into lively performance spaces from midday until late evening, attracting hundreds of residents and visitors throughout the day.

This year’s programme featured six performances combining contemporary dance, circus acts, theatre and visual movement, alongside workshops and exhibitions involving local artistic groups and dance schools from the municipality. Families gathered around acrobatic displays and interactive performances staged directly in the streets, allowing audiences to experience the shows at close range.

Almeria Charity triumph

COMMUNITY spirit and charitable giving were on full display in Arboleas recently, when friends, families and businesses took part in the 2026 Walk for Life charity race. A parade of 500 people dressed in pink marched through the streets, raising money to support cancer patients in the area. Incredibly, Walk for Life 2026 raised over €25,000, the charity’s biggest fundraising effort to date. While the 2025 race might have been a sunnier endeavour, the 2026 eclipsed it in every way, breaking its previous fundraising records.

As the Walk for Life race grows in popularity, so does the charity’s capacity to provide life-changing support. Even the smallest donation can make a big difference. The Walk for Life Arboleas team is blown away by the overwhelming generosity and continued support from the community. On Thursday, October 1, Sharon Regan will star in a charity benefit concert that is better suited to those who prefer an evening of entertainment over an afternoon of exercise.

THE Region of Murcia has reached an astounding donor record after a historic campaign. After the bone marrow donor recruitment campaign, held in tandem with the second Regional Solid Organ and Bone Marrow Donor Day and the third Region of Murcia Match, more than 2,100 residents of Murcia have registered as new donors, doubling the figures from previous years. With this new development, more than 30,000 people in total are now registered in the Region.

The campaign was carried out between May 10 and May 13 in the Region of Murcia’s various hospitals, health centres, universities, the Regional Blood Donation Centre, and various other points and establishments throughout the Region.

One of the major points of the campaign was the ‘Run to Give Life Fun Run, a sporting event held on Sunday, May 10, in which more than 3,000 people participated.

During the event alone, some 350 people registered as bone marrow donors.

Pet-sitting with a cat under house arrest

CARING for pets of all persuasions

Recently we heard from a petsitter in our membership who was tasked with caring for a cat who had started stealing laundry from a neighbour’s garden. Tiger was discovered by his owner sitting on a pile of colourful socks in his cat basket. When the pet-sitter arrived she was told categorically to keep Tiger indoors for the two weeks while the owner was away, so as not to further aggravate the neighbour, to whom all socks had been returned.

Fancy a new adventure in petsitting?

Petowners have sitters move in to care for pets and property for free. House-sitters stay in free accommodation and discover a new location. It’s affordable travel with care, without expensive accommodation. Homeowners show you their favourite places to visit. Living like a local is a great way to see the world, one house-sit at a time. How it works

1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com

2. Create your profile with photos of you and, if you are a pet owner, your pets

3. Match with the perfect house-

sitting partner and save money! Real savings, real peace of mind

Each house-sit benefits both homeowner and sitter. Pets receive one-on-one attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees (stress-free pet!).

For a small annual registration fee (and no per-sit fee), you can connect with other verified members for house-sitting. Sitters stay free and owners find house and pet-sitters to care for pets in their own home. Both parties secure an affordable holiday.

Join today

Register at HouseSitMatch. com use code WELCOME50 for 50 per cent off your first year. Trustpilot

This site is definitely the best house-sit site I have used. Lamia and her team provide such personal approach and will talk you through any problems and even write your ads for you. Well done.

Kay Lattimore, April 2, 2026

Shedding season

SHEDDING is one of the biggest challenges in homes with both cats and dogs, especially during seasonal coat changes. Managing it well is mostly about routine rather than quick fixes.

Regular brushing is the most effective step. Short sessions several times a week help remove loose fur before it spreads across furniture and floors. For double-coated dogs or long-haired cats, daily brushing during heavy shedding periods makes a noticeable difference.

Diet also plays a role. Pets with healthy skin shed less excessively, so balanced food with enough protein and fatty acids can help reduce dry skin and breakage. If shedding suddenly increases, it

is worth checking for stress, allergies, or health issues. Cleaning habits matter just as much as grooming. Vacuuming with a pet-focused filter system every few days keeps fur under control. Using washable blankets on sofas or

pet beds makes cleanup easier and protects fabrics from build-up. Air circulation helps too. Brushing pets in one consistent area, like a balcony or bathroom, prevents fur from spreading through the whole home. Lint rollers or rubber gloves

can quickly pick up hair from upholstery between deeper cleaning sessions. With a consistent hair-care routine, shedding becomes manageable rather than overwhelming, even in homes with multiple pets.

CLASSIFIEDS

BUILDING SERVICES

J & J PAINTERS. Inside - outsideclean - fast - low cost. TorreviejaOrihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (313701)

BUY & SELL

CHARITY

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www. aa-costablanca.org (93323)

CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer. Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@hotmail.com

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS)

MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away. Tel: 634 311 690 (95462)

CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 www.givinglight. com.(10006)

FREEMASONRY Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca? There are various Lodges meeting up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact  sec@glpvalencia. com Tel 600 841 064 (95477)

HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). We are online at www.helpvegabaja. com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpvegabaja.com. We also have a 24-hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456)

ICA CHURCH, TORREVIEJA Calle Beniajan 16, Torrevieja 03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday Service at 10.30am, Wednesday coffee morning 10.30am til midday. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273. For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www. icatorrevieja.org (95476).

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. For more information, including details of our services, see our website www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org (10005)

PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pilarchurch.org Reg No: 2009-SG/A (95463)

ROYAL Air Force Association Costa Blanca Registered Members Group:  The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG replaces the RAFA Costa Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the Royal Air Force Association and the RMG can be made via the RAFA website  rafa.org.uk Tel:0044 800 018 2361. (238593)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, then contact us on  676 451 780. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Billy who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at,  http://branches. britishlegion.org.uk/branches/ orihuela-costa - covering from Punta Prima to San Javier. Visit our Facebook page Costa Blanca South RBL.  (95457)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granalacant.secretary@rbl. community.

ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION

(Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details contact Hon Sec P S Wilkins Tel: 966 194 158 email: inkinspain@yahoo.co.uk (10004)

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) A friendly and engaging group of people who embrace their ethos of Comradeship, Loyalty, Patriotism & Unity while enjoying a verity of social events, meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 17.00 at Silverstone’s 2023 (Bar/ Restaurant). Av. Romero, 03176 Montebello, Alicante. Contact: RNATB Membership Secretary, Carl Louden; email: carllouden@msn. com or Phone +34 678 518 202, or just come along and meet us. (95455)

STROKE  ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers, with rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact Paul 653 588 475 (English) or Maria 620 907 474 (Spanish) or email  strokesup portgroup@hotmail.com. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473)

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188. (95461)

THE BAKER Foundation Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458)

THE PATIENCE LODGE No 2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information. (253807)

THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar meets at Hamilton’s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178.  We hold a Sunday Sevrice at 11.30am. For further information:   www. spiritualistcentre-benijofar. com.  Telephone 711 060 171. Email  martindroute66@hotmail. com. Fiscal G54713789 (95454)

MOVERS AND SHAKERS We are a non-profit organisation that supports people and their families with neurological diseases such as; HUNTINGTON’S, ATAXIA, MOTOR NEURONE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and PARKINSON. The club is held at Silverstones Bistro Restaurant.

Avenida Romero, Montabello (except August), the 1st Tuesday of every month from 1pm to 3pm. For more details, contact Marion Smith on 711 008 250, or email:  marion. smith@amscb.org.es, or you can find us on Facebook : FB @ movers and shakers   www.amscb.org.es (295976)

ELECTRICIAN

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (303844)

FRIENDSHIP

SINGLE Man 58, honest & genuine. Looking for female friendship. Ages 50-60. Torrevieja & Surrounding areas. WhatsApp 711 048 429. (350840)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434. (305434)

INSURANCE

BENEFICIAL COVER - Your English Insurance Broker in Spain! We deal with names you recognise: Admiral, Generali, Zurich, Allianz, Caser and more. WE FIND THE BEST DEALS SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO All in English, with English assistance for claims. Get a quote for motor, home, funeral, business, or travel insurance, etc. Email: info@beneficialcover.com | Tel & Whatsapp: 711 062 812 | Web: www.beneficialcover.com (350655)

FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsuranceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsurancein spain.com (350589)

MASSAGE

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE, slim, Sophie, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (314089)

MAGIC TOUCH, French, speaks 3 languages, professional masseuse, tantric. Apartment in Villamartin and home visits. Tel 693 357 526 (301564)

FRIENDLY, experienced masseuse, unwind with a 1hr massage by Veronica. Shaving or permanent hair removal available. For appointments call 679 292 678

MATURE Lady 66 available for special massage ... outside

Quesada - Tel: 711 006 560 Tracy (350677)

LOLA , Spanish Brunette. Sensual Massage - Guardamar del Segura.Te. +34 641 26 60 90. (350702)

MERY Polish, erotic, relaxing massages, best attention. Dehesa de Campoamor. 672 539 332. (350829)

SOFIA Spanish Masseur private premises in Torrevieja. Contact me for relaxing massage. WhatsApp 645 080 184 (350856)

NADIA - Moldavin girl, Sensual Massage. Best attention. SensualSpain. Tel: 614 886 065. La Zenia. (350836)

MEETONG POINT

ENGLISH LADY 65, divorced, looking to meet a pleasant gentleman 65 to 75 for companionship and friendship, meals out and drinks. 611 255 479. (350862)

MOTORHOMES

MOTORHOME / Campervan wanted. Left- or right-hand drive. Cash waiting for right van. Tlf 650 722 905 (295678)

MOTORING

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

MUSIC TUITION

PIANO , Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (314013)

OTHERS

EDS? We have the solution Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs. Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

KAMAGRA Gold 100mg, Kamagra Jellies, Super Viagra & Cialis (Weekender) available. Collection or delivery. Roy - 613 584 915. (314027)

PET CHARITY

EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033

or sales@easyhorsecare.net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)

GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community. Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, de-flead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709)

P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www. pepaspain.com (95708)

SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting rehoming. Phone Gail 962 896 118. Visit our website for directions. www.spama. org and view our new blog at www.spama-safor.blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)

PETS

LOVING home required for a beautiful 5-month-old male Bichon Frise. Fully vaccinated, chipped and passport. Contact 653 757 768. (314100)

Powering Spanish roads

LONG-DISTANCE electric travel across Spain is set to become significantly easier following a government announcement of a €100 million investment to install 337 new rapid charging points nationwide. The project specifically targets the country’s shadow stretches, which are areas where electric vehicle owners struggle to find reliable fast chargers outside major cities.

Coordinated through IDAE under the Moves charging corridor programme, the plan aims

to reduce a primary fear among EV drivers: running out of battery on routes with poor infrastructure. Most new stations will offer 150 kW rapid charging, allowing motorists to recharge much faster during motorway journeys. The government hopes this expansion will encourage more drivers to switch to electric vehicles as Spain pushes towards cleaner transport.

While Spain had nearly 55,000 operational charging points by May 2026 according

to AEDIVE, reliability remains a major concern. Industry figures from ANFAC suggest more than 16,000 installed chargers were still not operational at the end of 2025 due to grid connection problems, maintenance issues, or administrative delays.

The new programme will fund major operators including Wenea, Zunder, and Iberdrola through its partnership with BP Pulse. New hubs are planned for locations such as Villafranca del Penedès, Almansa, Verín, and Villena, focusing on problematic motorway routes.

For the government, improving infrastructure is now as vital as offering vehicle subsidies, as motorists question whether the network is finally becoming reliable enough to trust.

DRIVERS in Spain can still use several toll motorways without paying between midnight and 6am in 2026, a little known rule that could help motorists save money on long journeys, airport runs and summer travel. With fuel and holiday costs still high, these overnight free routes are drawing fresh attention.

The offer applies mainly to state managed roads operated by SEITT, which took over former private toll roads after financial collapses years ago. Most are around Madrid, though some routes are elsewhere.

Roads currently included in the overnight free window are: R-2 Madrid to Guadalajara, R-3 Madrid to Arganda del Rey, R-4 Madrid to Ocaña, R-5 Madrid to Navalcarnero, M-12 Barajas airport axis, AP41 Madrid to Toledo, AP-36 Ocaña to La Roda, and the AP-7 Carta -

Shared road responsibilities Free tolls

SPAIN is progressing towards allowing 17-year-olds to drive under supervision, but a significant detail in the proposal is garnering attention: the accompanying adult could also be tested for alcohol or drugs. Under this system, based on a European directive, the supervising co-driver is not viewed as a mere passenger but as an active participant in the driving process.

This rule ensures that the adult is fully fit to supervise. Consequently, police could perform roadside checks on both the driver and the co-driver. The logic is that an adult under the influence cannot properly guide a novice or react during critical moments, which would undermine the safety of the system.

Strict conditions will apply to this role. A co-driver must be at

gena to Vera section. These motorways are often quicker and less congested than alternative roads, making the free period especially useful.

Drivers in Alicante also have better news. The Alicante bypass became permanently free in late 2025, meaning motorists can now use it all day rather than only overnight. The move was designed to ease congestion and improve traffic flow across the Costa Blanca. For frequent drivers, even modest toll savings can add up over a year.

With millions expected to travel across Spain this summer, these hidden overnight free roads could become one of the easiest ways to cut the cost of a trip.

least 24 years old, have held a valid EU licence for at least five years, and must not have been banned from driving within the previous five years. These requirements ensure sufficient experience to support a new driver safely.

Under the system, 17-year-olds may pass their theory and practical tests, but they must drive with a qualified adult until they turn 18. This restriction will be

noted on their licence until they can drive independently.

Spain’s traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico, aims to introduce this model by the European deadline of November 2028, following successful examples in countries like Germany. For families, this represents a shift where the passenger shares full responsibility for road safety.

MOTORING

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

IF you’re of a certain age then you’ll probably remember the 1970/80S Ford Capri and the advertising strapline ‘The car you always promised yourself’. Relaunching a former model name can be tricky for car makers given certain buyers will always view the original car through rose-tinted glasses.

In Ford’s case the latest Capri bears no resemblance to the original, it’s an all-electric Coupe SUV and a rather good one too. Its chunky and solid profile reflects the SUV image while a more rakish roofline speaks to the coupe element of the name.

Prices start from €42,707/£36,985, peaking at €60,109/£52,055, with four trim levels, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive options and both standard and extended range. Dependant on model choice there are three battery sizes and a dual motor with the all-wheel-drive versions.

Standard fare across the range includes 19” alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, navigation, dual zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors plus a rear-view camera and rear privacy glass.

Higher trim levels add larger alloys, panoramic roof, premium 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen audio system with sound bar and subwoofer, keyless entry and start, hands-free power tailgate, wireless phone charging, heated seats and steering whe-

Ford Capri Premium - is Ford back?

el and powered, heated and folding door mirrors. The combined range varies from 436km/271 miles through to 627km/390 miles with power outputs of 190PS up to 340PS depending on model power and drive choices.

Therefore, the first plus point for the Capri is the range of options in terms of power outputs, drive and battery choices. Inside the Capri the space for both occupants and their luggage is excellent and it’s a stylish interior too. Both the Capri and Explorer (almost a sister car from Ford) share a lot of VW underpinnings, but the Capri does drive and handle well compared to some rival EVs.

It’s not outright sporty but still entertaining given the right roads. There are four driving mode profiles - Normal, ECO,

Facts at a Glance

Sport, Individual and in AWD models Traction, designed to adjust steering, accelerator and powertrain response.

The large central screen has good clarity but as with so many cars the relative lack of proper buttons makes life a bit annoying. Familiarity would of course make life easier. In front of the driver the screen is smaller and rather too busy. Given its price point the interior as a whole doesn’t feel particularly premium even though well-equipped.

All-in-all the Capri makes a good play for potential EV Coupe SUV buyers looking for space, practicality, equipment and, although subjective, a different style to many of the rather analogous looking rivals. It may be controversial to some, but after a period of losing some of its best-selling and most loved models I think Ford is back!

• Model: Ford Capri Premium extended range

• Engine: 77kwh developing 286PS and rear wheel drive

• Gears: Automatic

• Price: €55,549/£48,105

• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62mph 6.4 seconds

• Range: 593km/369 miles combined driving

• Emissions: 0g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

Football pitch upgrade

SANTA POLA has completed a €160,000 renovation of the artificial pitch at El Monsa football ground, with local youth players taking centre stage at the reopening event.

The upgraded municipal facility was officially inaugurated during a community sports day involving youngsters from Santa Pola CF and Sporting Santa Pola. Teams from both clubs mixed together for a series of matches designed to encourage unity between the two organisations.

Sports councillor Ángel Piedecausa described the occasion as ‘a special day’, explaining that the aim was for children to enjoy the renewed facilities while strengthening ties between the clubs. Hundreds of people attended, including players and

their families.

Mayor Loreto Serrano said the council had prioritised improving sports facilities across Santa Pola since the start of the current term. She noted that the artificial football pitches had become heavily worn and required urgent work.

The project was financed entirely through municipal funds.

The mayor also listed several other re -

cent sports developments in the town, including three new padel courts, three tennis courts, a football ground in Gran Alacant, refurbishment works at the Paco Hernández sports centre, a pumptrack circuit, a climbing wall, a football pitch at Pereira, outdoor calisthenics parks and the forthcoming full renovation of the Lara González sports hall.