Costa Blanca South 28 Aug – 3 Sept 2025 Issue 2095

Viral sunbed wars

A BRITISH tourist’s playful video of the so-called ‘sunbed wars’ at a hotel in Torrevieja has become an internet sensation, racking up over 22,000 likes and 1.4 million views on TikTok.

Filmed at Hotel Playas de Torrevieja, the video shows guests racing into the pool area as soon as the gates open, towels in hand, determined to snag the perfect lounge chair for themselves. As the video plays, the creator of

the video narrates via text in the style of a wildlife documentary. He describes the tourists’ actions by making comments such as, ‘The males wait patiently… watching… ready to strike’, and ‘One female breaks from the pack… she closes in on her unsuspecting prey… the sunbed never stood a chance’.

The video, uploaded by user @ianforan_, went viral on TikTok within days, and it has left viewers

laughing at the all-too-familiar holiday scramble. Many have commented that it perfectly captures the lighthearted chaos of trying to secure a sunbed, while others have shared their own tales of similar early-morning races on the Costa Blanca.

Although the video has sparked some debate over whether reserving sunbeds with towels for hours is acceptable, many viewers simply appreciate the humour and rela-

tability of the situation. It serves as a reminder that holidays are full of small, quirky moments that can bring laughter and memories that last long after the tan fades.

In the end, the viral clip proves that even a simple poolside scramble can become a source of joy and entertainment - not to mention a social media sensation - showing the chaotic yet amusing side of holiday life in sunny Torrevieja.

Summer school success

AS a testament to the city’s commitment to o ering families a safe and high-quality summer resource, Orihuela’s Municipal Summer School has welcomed more than 1,500 children aged two to 12 this summer. The programme was organised by the city’s Department of Education under the theme ‘Orihuela and the Gateway to Time’, and it combined learning, sports, and social activities to promote values of creativity, respect, and coexistence.

Inspired by key periods in history and Orihuela’s rich cultural heritage, the summer school provided a variety of engaging activities. Children took part in dramatisations, workshops, alternative sports, cooperative games, and thematic exercises - all catered to di erent ages and developmental levels.

In outlying districts, where groups ranged from toddlers to sixth-graders, activities were adapted with simpli ed and advanced versions, divided roles, and inclusive dynamics to ensure that every child could participate.

The programme ran across 16 edu-

cational centres in two phases: late July and early August. A total of 1,531 children attended, including participants referred by Social Services. To ensure safety and high-quality guidance, a quali ed team of monitors and student interns supported the operation. With 72 per cent of families giving the experience a high rating, the summer school received overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Councillor Vicente Pina noted that the programme exceeded expectations, allowing children to learn and play in an enriching environment while o ering parents a way to balance work and childcare during the summer.

Silent tours take off

ALICANTE is embracing a new tourism trend that combines exploration with mindfulness: silent tourism. Arriving just ve months ago after launches in Barcelona and Valencia, the initiative o ers a way to enjoy the city without contributing to noise pollution.

Participants in this ‘silent tourism’ use 8D noise-cancelling headphones, which create an immersive experience and ensure that the surrounding community remains undisturbed.

Activities include guided walks where visitors can follow choreography to Zumba, Bachata, or commercial

music. There are also more relaxing options like Silent Respira - a beach meditation designed to help people reconnect with themselves and nature.

Although it was originally intended for tourists, the events have actually become extremely popular with local residents. Town councils in Elda and Torrevieja have already hired the service, re ecting its growing popularity among locals. Organisers from BeSilent Alicante emphasise that these activities are not meant to replace cultural visits. Instead, they o er a fresh perspective of the city.

While some Valencia residents questioned the purpose of dancing through city streets, Alicante’s reception of silent tourism has been largely positive. Suitable for all ages, sessions typically last around an hour and cost about €10.

As tourism can sometimes be disruptive, this initiative highlights a broader movement of nding innovative ways to enjoy urban spaces while respecting residents’ well-being. With its mix of music, meditation, and environmental awareness, silent tourism invites visitors and locals alike to experience Alicante di erently.

Need to know Spanish laws

Prioritising public order and safety

WHEN in Spain, whether as a tourist or new resident, there’s no formal guide to local laws, but ignorance isn’t an excuse. You’re expected to know the regulations in the BOE (official state bulletin). Here are six lesser-known laws foreigners should understand:

Mandatory ID: Everyone must carry a valid photo ID, like a passport, in public. Police can demand it anytime, and failure to comply may lead to a €600 fine or detention. Photocopies don’t count.

Zero Tolerance for DUI: Spain’s strict alcohol limit for driving is effectively zero - think a thimble of wine. Mouthwash might even trigger a positive test. Drug-related driving offences carry up to €1,000 fines, licence points deductions, or jail. Random roadside tests are common.

Citizen Security Law: The ‘Gag Law’ punishes disrespect or disobedience to police with fines from €100 to €30,000. Unauthorised protests near government buildings can cost up to €600,000.

Photography Restrictions: Taking or sharing photos without consent, especially of minors or in private settings, violates privacy laws. Filming police or government sites risks €30,000 fines. Drone use is often banned.

Smoking While Driving: Smoking in cars is legal, but flicking ash or butts out the window invites hefty fines. Holding a cigarette can be deemed a distraction, viola-

ting driving laws.

Weapons Laws: Carrying knives or self-defence items like pepper spray without permits is illegal. Firearms require specific licences.

Spain prioritises public order and safety, so know the rules to enjoy your stay.

Carry official photo ID at all times.

Spain’s H sticker

SPAIN’S DGT has finally cleared the confusion around the new H sticker, the small yellow badge that acts as a golden ticket for classic cars entering Low Emission Zones (ZBE). Introduced under Royal Decree 892/2024, in force since October 1, 2024, the reflective yellow disc with a black ‘H’ identifies a vehicle as historic and grants access to restricted urban areas where many modern cars without the right eco-label are barred.

Getting the H is simple: no online portal, no bureaucracy. The stickers are sold over the counter at tobacconists, Correos post offices and DGT offices. Once displayed on the windscreen, it tells police and wardens your car is officially recognised as historic. But eligibility matters. In DGT terms, ‘historic’ doesn’t just mean ‘old’. Vehicles must be at least 30 years from first registration or build and retain their original character without major alterations.

Two groups qualify. Group A covers historic cars with standard Spanish plates and valid ITV, while Group B applies to those on historic plates or with special documentation but still meeting the definition. Either way, the sticker is only valid once the vehicle has been catalogued as historic; the badge itself doesn’t create status.

For owners, this is a breakthrough. Without the H, many genuine classics risk being refused entry to city centres or tangled in roadside checks.

Returning items in Spain E-scooter law

IF you’ve ever tried returning something and heard ‘no devoluciones’, you’re not alone, but knowing your rights can help.

Spanish law doesn’t give you an automatic right to return items in shops unless they’re faulty. According to Administra

no statutory right to return non-defective goods bought in person.

Many retailers offer a voluntary return policy within a set period, but often require a receipt. Always check the in-store policy before buying.

Under EU and Spanish law, items bought online,

from a door-to-door seller (contrato a distancia) come with a 14-day cooling-off period from delivery. You can cancel without reason, and must be provided with a cancellation form. Exceptions include plane and concert tickets, and personalised goods.

To cancel, notify within 14 days. Once cancelled, you have 14 days to return the item. Unless stated otherwise, return postage is your responsibility. Refunds must cover the full purchase and delivery costs, paid within 14 days - though sellers may wait for the item or proof of return.

Under Directive (EU) 2019/771, faulty items have a two-year guarantee. Defects appearing within 12 months are presumed to exist at purchase.

Second-hand goods may have a one-year guarantee if agreed in writing.

Even digital purchases are covered by EU law. Under Directive (EU) 2019/770, faulty items can be refunded or replaced - even if you ‘paid’ using personal data.

NEW regulations for electric scooters in Spain, as ratified by Congress, aim to improve road safety and come in line with EU standards. Targeting Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) like electric scooters, but not traditional bicycles, the law addresses the rapid rise of e-scooters in Spanish cities. From 2026, Under the amended Automobile Insurance Act, e-scooter owners must obtain liability insurance to cover third-party damages, protecting accident victims previously left vulnerable by uninsured riders.

E-scooters must be registered with the DGT, requiring details like make, model, and serial number, though specific procedures and costs are still pending. Scooters sold after January 22, 2024, need a VMP certificate ensuring compliance with safety standards, including brakes, lights, and a 25 km/h speed cap. Pre-2024 scooters can be used until January 22, 2027, but must be registered by January 2026. A 14 km/h speed limit addresses high-speed riding concerns, and visible identification, like licence plates, is under consideration. Traditional bicycles and pedelecs (e-bikes with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h) are exempt from these rules. Some e-bikes (L1e-A, up to 25 km/h and 1000 W) may fall under PMV regulations, but most remain treated as bicycles, requiring no insurance or registration. Cyclists must follow existing rules, like helmet use for certain riders, lights at night, and adherence to cycle lanes.

Dust devil stuns drivers

DRIVERS in the Vega Baja were left astonished on Sunday, August 24, when a huge dust devil appeared next to the road between Algorfa and Los Montesinos. The co-pilot of one car captured the phenomenon on video, showing a towering column of swirling dirt and sand rising over 10 metres high. The footage, which was recorded by Jesús Ruiz and shared by local meteorology account @ MeteOrihuela on X, reveals just how dramatic

the dust devil was. These twisting columns of air are technically known as tolvaneras, and they tend to form on hot, dry days when the sun heats the ground intensely, causing air to rise and start spinning. While dust devils are relatively common in this region during summer months, it is unusual for them to reach such an impressive height. Locals described the sight

ALICANTE’S TRAM system is set to receive a significant security boost. Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Valenciana (FGV) has launched a €41 million contract to enhance surveillance and safety across both Alicante and Valencia networks. The current contract expires on December 31, 2025, and the new contract will initially run for two years, with the option to extend for an additional year.

The upgrade comes as passenger numbers of TRAM d’Alacant reach record levels, with thousands of travelers using the system every day. With this higher usage has come more incidents, such as fare evasion and vandalism. To strengthen security measures, the contract focuses on four areas: monitoring TRAM complexes, common services, tram lines, and trains. FGV will hire private security companies with their own resources to carry out the work, and these companies

as thrilling and surreal, serving as a reminder of nature’s power even in otherwise calm weather. While experts note that dust devils are generally harmless, they can carry small debris and sand

that could potentially affect visibility for drivers. Nonetheless, their sudden appearance makes them quite a spectacle, and the video from Algorfa has quickly captured the attention of social media users across the province.

Safer TRAM travel

will coordinate closely with local law enforcement. The goal is to prevent unauthorised access, protect passengers and staff, and maintain safe stations, trams, and trains.

The initiative aims to improve the daily travel experience for thousands

of Alicante commuters by ensuring safer and more reliable journeys. Moreover, it highlights FGV’s commitment to protecting passengers and employees while keeping the city’s public transport system secure and efficient.

Crowning a Queen

SANTA POLA has made history by crowning Carla Martinez Garcia as Queen of the Elderly, marking the first time a trans woman has received this honour. Mayor Loreto Serrano made the announcement, which was met with a warm ovation from the audience. As many waved rainbow flags in support, Serrano praised the courage of those who stand up for their beliefs, noting the event as a win for equality and diversity.

The gala was held on August 18 at El Palmeral, and Martinez competed alongside Cati Bonmati Garri and

Maria Loyola Cabrera, who will now serve as her attendants. The Queen was chosen randomly through Santa Pola’s ‘lucky fan’. In this tradition, each contestant receives a folded fan, but only one of them reveals the word ‘Queen’ when opened.

The Queen of the Elderly represents women with a dynamic and active role in Santa Pola’s cultural and social life, contributing to festivals and local traditions. As Martinez has been closely connected to the town since birth, she exemplifies this dedication.

Despite the usual fireworks having been cancelled due to fire risk, celebrations continued with live music and entertainment. Carla Martinez’s crowning marks a memorable highlight of Santa Pola’s 2025 festivities, reflecting a community that embraces tradition, inclusivity, and diversity.

Community carpool

IN an effort to modernise local mobility, the town of Catral has sent a formal request to the Valencian Government for a new carpool parking facility. Situated between the roundabouts of the CV913 at the town’s entrance from Callosa de Segura, the proposed site would serve as a hub for shared vehicle use.

The location provides direct access to the AP-7 and A-7 motorways and is only minutes from commuter rail stations in San Isidro-Albatera-Catral and Callosa del Segura-Cox, making it a particularly advantageous spot. Local officials argue that its positioning would make Catral an ideal point of connection with the Vega Baja region and with neighbouring provinces Alicante and Murcia.

Mayor Joaquín Lucas explained that the aim of the project is to give residents

a practical yet modern solution for everyday travel while promoting sustainable mobility. According to Lucas, carpooling could ease congestion in addition to cutting emissions and transport costs for families.

Furthermore, the initiative would revitalise a neglected stretch of land at the town’s gateway. By transforming the currently abandoned site into a functional and orderly space, the council believes that the overall image of the municipality would improve as well. Officials remain optimistic, as other carpooling areas have delivered positive results, and they hope that this will make Catral a more connected and environmentally conscious town.

Strengthened security Reopening the promenade

AFTER securing a judicial order resolving a long-running dispute with a local residents’ community, Orihuela City Council has finally reopened the Cabo Roig promenade. On August 19, the Administrative Court in Elche authorised the municipality to take possession of 142.32 square metres of expropriated land belonging to the Bellavista I residential complex. While the community was strongly opposed to the occupation, the court

ultimately determined that the land in question did not affect any housing and that public interest outweighed private objections. The order permitted immediate opening of a 30-metre stretch of the walkway. Improving pedestrian access along a busy part of the Orihuela Costa, the newly accessible section connects the public car park on Calle Levante with the Calisthenics Park in the Aguamarina development.

The ruling stated that judicial authorisation was the only measure that could guarantee the effectiveness of the expropriation process. It emphasised that the space, which was previously fenced and gated, was always intended as a public pathway rather than a private amenity.

Mayor Pepe Vegara noted that the decision was one which brought a long and complex process to a close. With the reopening, the promenade is expected to improve connectivity for residents and visitors.

THIS summer, Santa Pola has boosted safety measures along its 15-kilometre stretch of coastline with the addition of a rigid inflatable boat and two quad vehicles to support the Local Police.

Presented by councillor for Beaches Angel Piedecausa and councillor for Public Safety Ana Blasco, the initiative aims to improve both surveillance and rescue operations during the peak holiday season.

The rigid inflatable boat, a six-metre vessel, is equipped with a 140-horsepower engine and enables officers to reach any point of the coast quickly. It can also be deployed to assist other security forces in maritime emergencies, as long as the operations fall within the town’s jurisdiction.

Onshore, the two quad bikes allow poli -

ce to patrol the beach with greater speed and flexibility, ensuring immediate response where other vehicles would struggle. Blasco claims that the coordination between the two departments is crucial to protecting both local and tourist beachgoers.

The safety campaign will be in place throughout the summer and

continue during Santa Pola’s patron saint festivities from September 1 to September 8. Authorities emphasise that the enhanced resources strengthen dayto-day surveillance and provide reassurance to residents and visitors enjoying the town’s beaches and coves at one of the busiest times of the year.

Orchards makeover

ELCHE City Council has begun reviving agricultural use in its historic palm orchards by transforming neglected plots into vibrant fields. So far, only one in 10 municipal orchards has been restored, but the plan aims to expand across the city’s 90 protected sites.

The scheme includes planting sunflowers, alfalfa, rapeseed, and flowers across the orchards to encourage irrigation of the date palms and enhance the city’s biodiversity. Visitors are already taking notice, stopping near l’Hort de Malena to admire the sunflower fields, while content creators are sharing the colourful scenes on social media.

Councillor Claudio Guilabert explained that priority is being given to orchards clo-

sest to homes, both to improve curb appeal and strengthen palm trees. Additionally, planting these flowers reduces the risk of water stress - a problem which led to a palm collapsing in the Glorieta in 2024.

The overall goal is to eventually restore agricultural use in all 90 municipal orchards, including 72 historic ones. However, the process faces a few hurdles, particularly with water infrastructure as certain irrigation systems need upgrading. While crops such as sunflowers cannot be commercially harvested due to protection laws, the initiative is already providing ecological benefits and supporting local farmers, marking a meaningful step in Elche’s long-term plan to revitalise its historic palm landscapes.

Boost in blood donations

ACCORDING to the Alicante Transfusion Centre, during the first seven months of 2025, blood donations have risen by over 8 per cent in Elche, Crevillent, and Santa Pola. Marking a notable increase compared to the same period last year, 6,798 people and counting have donated blood at mobile collection units or the main centre.

The spokesperson for the centre, Alfonso Parra, emphasised that because blood cannot be artificially produced, making donations is critical. He highlighted a growing trend among younger donors, encouraged by mobile units visiting universities, schools, and workplaces across the province.

In addition to collecting blood, these units also raise awareness about the vital role of blood donations in healthcare.

Hospitals rely on a steady supply of blood every day. Donations are essential for emergency cases, patients with chronic conditions, chil-

dbirth complications, and more. Every donation, no matter how small, can have a life-saving impact.

Parra thanked the community for its generosity, and he expressed his hope that the trend continues upward, encouraging more people to

take part in this selfless act. With a few minutes of their time, donors in the Baix Vinalopo area of Alicante are making a significant difference, ensuring that hospitals have the blood needed to help patients in urgent and everyday medical situations.

AN Almoradi local got very lucky after a ticket purchased at Lottery Administration No. 1, on Calle Tomás Capdepón in the town centre, won a Second Category prize in Sunday’s Bonoloto draw. The fortunate player will receive a grand total of €32,893. The winning combina-

A lucky draw

tion for the draw, held on August 24, consisted of 16, 17, 38, 40, 46, and 49, with 24 and 2 as the complementary and refund numbers, respectively. Three other Second Category winners were recorded in Badajoz,

Palma de Mallorca, and Terrassa. Since no ticket matched all six numbers, the jackpot will roll over and could potentially reach €1.8 million in the next draw.

Bonoloto, which is one of Spain’s most popular lottery games, offers daily draws with a low-cost entry of €0.50 per bet. Players can choose their numbers or opt for a random selection, and prizes are divided across six categories, from full refunds to the grand jackpot. Matching five numbers plus the complementary number, like the Almoradi winner’s combination, typically yields a substantial prize.

Prizes are handed out across different categories depending on how many numbers are matched, but the probability of matching all six is one in 13,983,816. Matching five numbers plus the complementary number is one in 2,330,636, and it just so happens that an Almoradi resident was that fortuitous one.

Investing in animal welfare

ORIHUELA City Council has decided to modernise its Animal Protection Centre (CPA) in San Bartolome with a €207,136 renovation project. Led by Councillor Irene Celdran, the initiative is expected to be completed within three months and addresses multiple deficiencies in the ageing facility, ensuring better conditions for both animals and staff.

According to technical reports, some of the problems with the facility include damaged resin flooring, detached ceramic tiles, and recurring sewage blockages, which impede daily cleaning and disinfection.

To address these issues, the planned works include installing waterproof, easy-to-clean floors, reinforcing walls with durable coatings, and upgrading the sewage system. Carpentry and locksmithing improvements will strengthen security, and updated finishes and

workplace safety measures will support hygienic and safe operations.

Councillor Celdran stressed that animals deserve spaces that are safe and comfortable, and she emphasised that the government is prioritising this renovation. Volunteers from ASOKA, the animal welfare group that provides daily support at the centre, were also praised for their dedication to providing care and affec-

tion to animals awaiting adoption.

In addition, the council will address long-standing water system failures caused by the 2019 DANA so that the CPA can function efficiently. With documentation nearly complete and tendering imminent, construction is set to begin soon, meaning it’s not too long before Orihuela is able to provide more modern, dignified care to animals in need.

TOURISTS in Guardamar del Segura faced an unusual threat recently: not rough waves or sharks, but a dazzling sea slug with a dangerous sting. Lifeguards raised red flags along seven miles of the Costa Blanca after spotting two ‘blue dragons’ (Glaucus atlanticus) on Vi-

Threat of blue dragons

vers Beach. The ban was then eased to yellow flags, meaning swimming was allowed but with caution, as patrols remain in place.

The blue dragon may look like something out of a fantasy film - just four

centimetres long with electric-blue frills - but it carries a powerful sting. Feeding on jellyfish such as the Portuguese man o’ war, it stores their venom and makes it even stronger. Touching one, even acci-

dentally, can cause intense pain, nausea and vomiting, and for children or people with allergies, the reaction can be dangerous. That is why local authorities acted quickly, closing beaches until the risk was conside-

red manageable. Guardamar isn’t alone. In La Linea de la Concepcion, near Gibraltar, Santa Bárbara beach was also closed after six specimens were found. Both locations then reopened under yellow flags, with lifeguards urging swimmers to stay close to supervised zones and report sightings immediately.

Spain’s beach flag system is simple: red means

no bathing, yellow means swim with caution. Ignoring them can lead to fines as well as serious health risks.

Experts stress never to touch a blue dragon, dead or alive, and to alert lifeguards straight away. If stung, rinse with seawater, not fresh, and seek medical help.

These creatures usually drift in with warm waters and jellyfish blooms, which explains their sudden appearance during peak summer.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European: María Lorelei Acuña Carrillo

Fleeing years of nationwide violence in Mexico, María Lorelei Acuña Carrillo arrived in Spain on November 29, 2023, with her husband and two boys, Santi, two, and Jaime, nine, to start a new life away from Culiacan, where violence is an everyday thing.

“I LOOK back now and can’t believe how accustomed I had become to hearing gunshots and people being killed. For us, that was normal,” Lorelei told Euro Weekly News.

“In my hometown, it’s a common habit to check newspapers first thing every morning to find out which of your friends or relatives have been killed or kidnapped the night before,” she added.

Lorelei and her family are happy to be in Spain, away from the violence back home, despite the many challenges they face due to bureaucracy.

Culiacan is the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Sinaloa, where in the first seven months of 2025, over 1,800 people were murdered and 2,000 were forcibly disappeared.

Lorelei, a 32-year-old architect, and her husband, Raúl Antonio Villegas, a biochemist, have quickly learned to appreciate and value a country where, in all of 2024, only 384 homicides were reported.

“However, despite that I got Spanish

nationality through my dad, my husband and I struggle as do most immigrants. Our university degrees aren’t recognised, it took Raul 13 months to get a work permit, and he currently works as a waiter.”

A united community

ON Sunday, August 24, the Ukrainian community in Torrevieja took to the streets to celebrate their country’s Independence Day, highlighting the ongoing need for international support in the face of Russia’s invasion. More than three and a half years into the conflict, Ukrainians continue to assert their sovereignty and stress the resilience of their people.

She is grateful, though, that her third child, “my gorgeous little girl was born healthy thanks to Spain’s free health system.”

Around 300 participants gathered at Plaza de la Constitución, waving yellow and blue flags and singing the Ukrainian national anthem. At Parque de las Naciones, the march concluded with a programme of cultural performances, speeches, and community activities. Throughout the day, participants shared messages promoting peace and expressing gratitude to Spain for welcoming

refugees who have sought safety in the region.

Organised by the Ukrainian Association of Torrevieja, the celebrations were led by Natalia Zhezhnyavska and attended by local political authorities.

The coming together of the city’s figures underscored Torrevieja’s support for the Ukrainian community.

The Ukrainian population in Torrevieja has grown from 4,000 to 10,000 residents in the

past four years, making Ukrainians the city’s largest foreign community.

The Russian community is the second largest, with around 6,000 residents.

Torrevieja also hosts Spain’s first ‘House of Ukraine’. This community centre, which provides cultural and administrative resources to residents and visitors alike, is located at the Social Security Treasury and managed by the Ukrainian government.

Museums gain momentum

ELCHE’S museums saw significant turnout for the first half of the year, with more than 28,000 visits recorded between January and July.

Confirming its status as the city’s cultural flagship, the most popular museum was the Archaeological and History Museum of Elche (MAHE), which welcomed close to 20,000 people. While the majority of its visitors were Spanish, a notable 30 per cent were international, coming mainly from Eastern Europe, France, and the United Kingdom.

The newly refurbished Museum of the Misteri d’Elx also drew strong interest after its reopening in early July, registering 1,200 visits. Again, attendance was mainly local, but the institution also attracted tourists from France, Britain, and Eastern Europe.

Set within the Huerto de San Plácido, the Palm Grove Interpretation Centre was equally popular and had nearly 7,000 visitors over the same period. Most were national tourists coming from the Valencian Community, Murcia, Madrid, Catalonia, and Andalucia,

while international guests travelled from countries such as France, Italy, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Thanks to its temporary exhibitions, the Contemporary Art of Museum of Elche (MACE) also played its part in bringing in crowds. The exhibition Moisés Gil. Conscious States, Daily Episodes, open until November 2, has been particularly successful and continues to draw attention.

Together, these figures underline Elche’s growing appeal as a cultural destination, emphasising its ability to attract both local and international audiences.

Farewell Javier Sierra

THE Real Estate industry mourns the sudden passing of Javier Sierra, president of Remax España, who died in Madrid on August 22, 2025, at age 64. Sierra, a revolutionary figure in Spanish real estate, leaves a lasting legacy as a pioneer and inspiring leader.

Born in Madrid in December 1960, Sierra introduced Remax to Europe in 1995, establishing the brand in Spain and transforming the sector with a collaborative, professional model centred on real estate agents. “Javier Sierra was a visionary who drove Remax’s growth in Spain,” said Noel Picou, manager at Remax Grupo Inmomas Benidorm. “His entrepreneurial spirit will always inspire.”

A mathematics graduate, Sierra co-founded AEGI in 1998 and MLS España in 2002, serving as its president since 2007.

Correos pauses US parcels

His leadership earned REMAX España accolades, including REMAX International’s Best Regional Director award in 1999. Under his guidance, the company surpassed 2,000 agents in 2018 and celebrated a record-breaking 2024, marking its 30th anniversary in 2025. Beyond his professional achievements, Sierra was beloved for his humanity and humour. “He was well ahead of his time,” shared

Credit: Remax España

Hola! Real Estate Malaga, crediting him with professionalising the industry. Remax Marítima Estepona added, “His influence shaped our service. We’ll always cherish our memories with him.”

Survived by his family and the Remax España community, Sierra’s vision will continue to shape Spanish real estate, leaving an enduring legacy of innovation and excellence.

IT has been announced that Spain’s postal operator Correos has stopped accepting low-value parcels bound for the United States and Puerto Rico.

The move, effective from August 25, follows Washington’s decision to scrap the long-running $800 ‘de minimis’ duty-free allowance. Parcels admitted before midnight on August 24 are still in the system, but anything sent after must wait until Correos updates its workflows.

The US change, effective August 29, means all imports will now face customs duties, with rates tied to value and origin. That forces postal operators to adapt: more paperwork, more data, and systems to collect duties upfront. Until those upgrades are in place, Correos has joined several European counterparts in pausing the cheap-parcel stream.

The groups hardest hit are small sellers, marketplace traders and individuals sending inexpensive goods or gifts. For now, Correos is still moving letters, documents, books, and gifts between private individuals up to

$100. Shipments above $800 can also go through, but they’ll be subject to the new duties.

In the short term, senders are advised to hold parcels or switch to documents and books. Businesses should warn US customers about delays and start re-pricing orders to factor in duties and handling fees. Longer term, Correos says it is working with partners on a fix that will allow duty collection at origin and the new customs data hand-offs demanded by Washington. No restart date has been given, but regular updates have been promised.

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Online petition

DURING the first half of this year, vets, pet owners, and supporters held demonstrations in major Spanish cities to demand changes to new laws introduced in January.

The reforms restrict vets’ ability to prescribe antibiotics and other medications, forbidding the use of drugs classified for human use, even when these are cheaper than veterinary-only alternatives.

A key example is alopurinol, used to treat leishmaniasis, a deadly canine disease common in Mediterranean dogs but rare in humans. Classified for human use, vets are no longer allowed to prescribe it for dogs, leaving only veterinary drugs up to 20 times more expensive.

Since January, vets have also faced restrictions on serum use, prescribing according to outdated leaflets, and administering

drugs from their stock only on the day of consultation.

Follow-up treatment required clients to buy a full pack from a pharmacy, even if only a few doses were needed. Following widespread protests, lawmakers recently reversed this rule, allowing vets to provide a complete cour-

se from their stock. Please scan the QR Code to go to the online petition in support of Pets & Vets. Almost 215,000 people have signed, with a target of 500,000 for full legal reversal.

Pets in Spain, an established animal welfare charity, welcomes donations for its rescue and welfare campaigns: www. petsinspain.com.

NEWS Travel

Valle de Baztan - green hills, stone villages, and Pyrenean traditions

IN the north of Navarra, the Valle de Baztan stretches across forested slopes and a patchwork of small villages. It’s a region shaped by centuries of cross-border trade, isolated farming, and deep-rooted traditions. Stone houses with wooden balconies, misty hills, and narrow roads define a landscape that still feels remote.

Baztan is practical for campervan travel. The main road through the valley is well-maintained and leads to Elizondo, the valley’s main hub. Parking for campervans is available around Elizondo and in several rural locations.

Food and local products

The valley is known for traditional Basque-style cooking, using ingredients sourced from nearby farms and rivers. Try cuajada (a milk-based dish), mamia (similar to yoghurt), or chocolate with whole almonds (urrakin egina). Many farms sell cider, jams, honey, and handcrafted goods.

Traditions and festivals

In Elizondo, the July Baztandarren Biltzarra parade sees residents come together in traditional dress, with music, dancing, and regional food. In

winter, Joaldunak processions, with figures dressed in sheepskins, conical hats, and rows of cowbells, pass through villages in ceremonies tied to the changing seasons. There are also storytelling, folk music, and wood-carving events yearround.

Witchcraft legends

The Baztan Valley is linked to some of Spain’s witchcraft legends. In the early 17th century, the nearby village of Zugarramurdi was at the centre of witch trials led by the Spanish Inquisition. Dozens were accused of pagan rituals and invoking spirits in caves outside the village. Today, the Cueva de Zugarramurdi is open to visitors, with a trail leading through the limestone formations believed to have hosted these gatherings. A museum in the village explores the historical events, and the role of myth and superstition in rural life.

Sights and activities

Elizondo features stone mansions, a riverside promenade, and several churches and chapels. The Palace of Arizkunenea stands in the centre. In Amaiur, a steep path leads to the remains of a 16th-century

castle, once key in defending the Kingdom of Navarra. The valley is great for walking, cycling, and summer kayaking on the Bidasoa river. Cultural centres in villages such as

SUMMARY

For those travelling by campervan and looking for something grounded and real, Valle de Baztan is well worth the visit. There’s history in the stones,

FOR the first time, the largest gastronomic festival for burgers in Spain, The Champions Burger, will arrive in Torrevieja. This event, which has already been causing a stir

Food truck frenzy COSTA BLANCA SOUTH CataSimo charm

in town since August 20, will run until September 7; nearly 20 food trucks will compete in this popularity contest for

the title of ‘The best burger in Spain’, and Torrevieja residents will get to decide who wins.

The Champions Burger, which has already travelled around 50 towns and cities, will offer a selection of unique, creative, and gourmet hamburgers, with fresh and quality ingredients. The burgers will fuse tradition as well as innovation, artisanally made with passion and expert techniques. The venue itself will also be decorated with a lighted entryway, mimicking the classic American-style burger food truck hotspots, to add to the atmosphere and to the gastronomic experience.

Participants will be able to vote on the best burger by scanning a QR code.

In December, the top 35 trucks will compete in the national grand finale, where the best burger in Europe will be chosen.

FOR anyone in Santa Pola looking for an inviting and creative dining experience, Restaurante CataSimo is a stylish, yet cosy choice for lunch or dinner. Located at Calle Virgen del Carmen, 5, this boutique restaurant boasts a daily menu alongside à la carte options, making it an excellent choice for both casual daytime visits and elegant evening meals.

The cuisine here is varied and thoughtfully prepared, balancing fresh Mediterranean seafood with hearty meat dishes. Diners can enjoy everything from lamb chops, burgers, and fresh fish, to lightly battered calamari strips, all presented with flair and tang. The establishment is locally known for both its excellence and its reasonable price.

The atmosphere strikes a delightful balance between modern elegance and coastal friendliness. Clean, inviting interiors are paired with a breezy terracewell-suited to leisurely gatherings or memorable couple dinners - with proximity to the beach adding a light sea breeze

to the experience.

Open every day except Tuesdays from 1pm to 4pm and again from 7pm to 11pm, it makes for a versatile destination.

With its varied menu, stylish environment, and convenient central location, Restaurante CataSimo stands out as one of Santa Pola’s most compelling dining choices, ideal for both locals and visitors craving a delightful meal by the Costa Blanca.

T. 865 662 083

restaurantecatasimo.com

ON Saturday, August 30, until Sunday, September 14, Guardamar del Segura will be celebrating this year’s edition of the Countryside Festivities, or Fiestas del Campo. These festivities will include a variety of activities and spectacles, as well as live music and performances that will en-

Countryside celebrations

chant tourists and locals alike.

The festivities will kick off on Saturday, with a rocket launching in the afternoon and an honorary wine celebration accompanied by the town crier that evening,

as well as opening speeches by part of the committee of Consuelo Torregrosa Andreu. Performances by Tinglao Dansaa Ballet and the Hornet Orchestra, as well as a live DJ, will start the parties off with high spirits. Sunday will see a traditional paella contest, bonfires, and beers from 2.00pm onwards. There will also be a bingo with prizes and children’s and youth activities, including a water party, ta-

ble football, billiards, a mechanical bull, and other fun activities.

The parties will continue into September, on Saturdays and Sundays until Sunday, September 14. The activities lined up for September include domino tournaments, group hiking routes, a Mexican party with delicious food, a traditional floral offering, a wine party, performances by local DJs, and more.

RESIDENTS and tourists in Pilar de la Horadada will get the unique opportunity to participate in a guided tour at the end of August, to explore the historical centre of the town. The tour, which will pass through Mil Palmeras and Torre de la Horadada, will be guided and theatrical, and will take participants through an active tour of some of Pilar de la Horadada’s fascinating historical landmarks.

The tour will take place on Saturday, August 30 and will traverse a total of 2.5 kilometres over a period of two hours, making for an active and interesting evening. The meeting point will be at the Paseo Maritimo de Mil Palmeras, near the Playa del Rio princi-

Until September 14, Guardamar del Segura will celebrate its Countryside Festivities.

Without a doubt, these events will be the highlight of August and September for those lucky enough to find themselves in Guardamar during these special summertime festivities.

On August

will

pal parking access. The tour will begin at 8.00pm, giving visitors the unique chance to learn about Pilar de la Horadada’s iconic torre at dusk, by the sea. Visitors can register for the guided tour by sending a WhatsApp message to 675 545 781, or by sending an email to turismo@pilardelahoradada.org. The activity will be completely free of charge, and the spots are limited, so those interested should not miss the chance to learn on this active and enticing historical route through one of the Costa’s most charming seaside towns.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Spanish Court Rules: Non-EU property owners can deduct rental costs in Spain

by Patricia Ruiz

Spanish Court Rules: Non-EU Property Owners Can Deduct Rental Costs in Spain

The Spanish National Court has issued a landmark ruling allowing non-European property owners to deduct rental expenses, a benefit previously reserved only for EU residents. The Court also declared Spain’s prior tax treatment discriminatory, marking an important step toward fairer rules for international property owners. What has changed?

Until now, non-EU residents renting Spanish property could not deduct costs such as cleaning, utilities, or marketing from their rental income, while EU residents could. Non EU are also taxed at a higher flat rate of 24 per cent compared with 19 per cent for EU citizens, a rate gap that still remains.

The case that triggered the decision involved a US citizen who owned property in Barcelona. Spain’s tax authority had argued that deductions were unavailable to non-EU residents, forcing them to declare

gross rental income. The National Court rejected this, finding it incompatible with EU law, particularly Article 63 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which protects free movement of capital.

Why the ruling matters

The Court stressed that Spain cannot justify harsher tax treatment for non-EU residents. Just as discriminatory rules on inheritance and donations tax were struck down by the European Court of Justice

and Spain’s Supreme Court, the same principle applies to rental income. Equal treatment is the standard, regardless of nationality or residence.

This judgment overturns the stance of Spain’s Central Economic-Administrative Tribunal (TEAC) and opens the way for non-EU owners to claim deductions in the same way as EU residents.

Implications for future tax measures

The ruling also has political significance.

www.mylawyerinspain.com

Spain’s President, Pedro Sánchez, recently proposed a new ‘Complementary State Tax’ of 100 per cent on property purchases by non-EU residents. The Court’s decision strongly suggests such a measure would breach EU law, amount to discrimination, and likely be struck down in both Spanish and European courts.

A move toward fairness

For non-resident owners and potential investors, this ruling provides greater certainty and reassurance. It confirms that Spain must respect principles of fairness and non-discrimination, offering a more level playing field for those investing in Spanish real estate.

At My Lawyer in Spain, we see this as an important step forward for equality and legal clarity. If you are a non-resident who owns or plans to purcha- se property in Spain, our team can guide you through the legal and tax implications to ensure you are protected.

IN Spain, tipping is not obligatory and often not expected in most establishments, surprising many American visitors. A viral social media post highlighted a Malaga restaurant receipt that included an unexpected €3.50 tip per diner, which the customer denied requesting.

While most Spanish restaurant owners don’t expect tips, some may try to add them during tourist season. Culturally, both British and Spanish diners tend to avoid confrontation, often choosing not to return rather than complain. However, the diners in this case very publicly criticised the restaurant online.

The restaurant owner defended himself on Spanish TV, claiming no service charge is added and tips are discretionary.

Bill surprises

Heatwave record

He explained the €3.50 charge was for off-menu oysters, not a tip, and was mistakenly listed as such on the bill. He noted that he explained this to the customer and suggested they could have reclaimed the charge if dissatisfied.

ONE of Madrid’s most iconic and beautiful hotels is up for sale. The Reina Victoria, an Art Deco wedding cake of architecture, will, hopefully, be restored to its former glory. This closure raises questions about whether Madrid’s city centre, long overwhelmed by tourism, can reclaim its authenticity.

Once a prestigious destination for international celebrities, the hotel and Plaza Santa Ana have become an Instagrammable tourist trap. The iconic rooftop bar, one of Madrid’s first, declined into a place where service was poor and drinks substandard.

The mismanagement extended beyond the hotel. La Vinoteca, a nearby wine bar, was sold to a corporation in

Iconic

The owner stressed that their system allows tips via card, but such issues are rare and would have been noticed earlier.

In Spain, tipping is not compulsory. For good service at a restaurant, locals might leave a 5-10 per cent

tip, either in cash or added to the card payment. For drinks or coffee at a bar or café, no tip is expected, though some may leave small change from cash payments. Always ask for clarification of bills politely for unfamiliar charges.

hotel up for sale

2021, reducing its extensive wine list to just ‘red’ or ‘white’. Similarly, a Michelin-starred chef’s Gran Via venue served disappointing fare like microwaved rabo de toro to unsuspecting tourists.

Credit:

Two decades ago, Plaza Santa Ana was a vibrant local hub for families, neighbours, and art lovers visiting Teatro Español. Now, it’s a commercialised shadow of its former self, adorned with garish LED lights.

The Reina Victoria, once the ‘hotel of the bullfighters’, became an example of short-term profit over sustainable authenticity, catering to global travellers and Instagrammers. As overtourism debates continue, hope remains that new ownership will restore the hotel’s class and revive Plaza Santa Ana’s genuine charm.

SPAIN has just come through its hottest heatwave on record, a 16-day ordeal that ended on August 18 but not before pushing emergency services, communities and health systems to the limit. Meteorological data confirm it was the most intense since records began, underlining how extreme summers are now clustering closer together. AEMET, Spain’s national weather agency, calculated the anomaly at +4.6°C above the official heatwave threshold - edging past the previous record from July 2022 (+4.5°C). For perspective, Spain has logged 77 heatwaves since 1975, but only six have ever topped +4°C, five of them since 2019. Nights brought little relief either, with urban heat-island effects keeping cities stifling after dark and hitting the elderly and those with chronic illnesses hardest. The toll has been heavy. Spain’s Carlos III Institute of Health estimates 1,149 excess deaths in August potentially linked to the heat, following around 1,060 in July. Wildfires added to the devastation: more than 400,000 hectares burned across Spain and Portugal, with eight lives lost, evacuations ordered and farmland left scorched.

The house-sitting and pet-setting business

THE origins of house-sitting goes back to early pet ownership. You help neighbours when they’re away from home, ensuring pets are cared for. Though if a pet owner lives away from close networks finding support is harder. HouseSitMatch helps!

When I was working in corporate, I always needed sitters to care for my property and pets. So, when a friend came to visit from Australia and said she’d been house-sitting in exchange for free home and pet care, the penny dropped. What a great idea!

Pet-sitting like a friend

Our philosophy is pet-sit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wider network of checked sitters for more choice. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening.

I loved this idea so much that I gave up a 25-year London career and invested in building HouseSit-

House-sitting means you can travel on a budget.

Match, for people to meet safely online.

Every home needs one

Most of us have homes, pets and travel occasionally. HouseSitMatch has helped all kinds of clients find

pet care and security, and frankly every home should have one. They keep pets at home and homes running smoothly. Home and pet owners choose their sitters, house-sitters apply for places to visit and the pets they love to care for. Yet, not a penny changes hands. It’s old-fashioned barter!

Growing and running a hou-

se-sitting business

We began in Europe and the UK, and now we go further afield. We help retired grandparents living in Spain wanting to visit family abroad and any expats needing help with pets when they want to travel, or just wanting to keep their home secure in their absence.

the UK, and now we go years of Covid

Ten years on we’ve won a Guardian newspaper award and earned a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5. And we survived Covid and Brexit. As any business owner will know growing a business is hard, but recent years were a challenge. However, we’re lucky with our collaborative members and we always want to welcome more.

I still house-sit myself so I can meet clients, and if we can’t meet in person I’ll call on the phone. Want to join our HouseSitMatch community?

Business support

SMALL businesses are the backbone of Santa Pola’s economy, providing essential services and contributing to the town’s vibrant character. Recognising their importance, the municipality has a range of initiatives designed to help entrepreneurs get started, expand their operations, and adapt to changing market conditions.

Programmes such as Santa Pola Emprende offer guidance on business planning, administrative support, and access to grants or microcredits. While exact figures vary year to year, hundreds of local entrepreneurs have benefited, receiving assistance to open new shops, cafes, and service-based businesses throughout the town. The support goes beyond financial aid, though. Municipal initiatives also provide mentoring, training, and networking opportunities, helping business owners develop innovative ideas and modernise operations.

Many businesses have used these resources to adopt sustainable practices, reduce waste, and implement energy-efficient solutions, aligning with broader environmental goals.

Local businesses play a key role in Santa Pola’s tourism sector. From restaurants and boutiques to cultural and leisure services, they create memorable experiences for visitors while serving the community. The municipality’s support ensures that these businesses re-

main resilient, competitive, and capable of responding to seasonal and economic challenges.

By fostering a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, Santa Pola not only helps businesses thrive but also strengthens the local economy, encourages job creation, and enhances the overall quality of life. These initiatives demonstrate the town’s commitment to cultivating a dynamic, sustainable, and innovative business environment.

Adelaida attraction

SANTA POLA’S historic Villa Adelaida museum is newly refurbished, and visitors will be able to visit it until August 31 in free workshops organised by the Santa Pola Town Hall.

The Villa Adelaida museum, which was given a new life earlier this year, is one of Santa Pola’s most iconic historical buildings and holds much cultural value in the area. The museum has been open to visitors since April 29.

The Villa Adelaida museum was built in 1910, with a mix of styles both modern and classic. The building was donated to the Santa Pola Town Hall by its owner, Maribel López Pérez-Ojeda, in 2012, hoping to

turn it into an arts centre with the aim of helping young talents in the area flourish, and facilitate the growth of science and literature. The town hall recently invested €400,000 into the building to restore and rehabilitate it so that it could be turned into the breathtaking museum it is today, known as the Hans-Maribel-Shami Centre.

Interested visitors can reserve their spots to visit the museum by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to 678 358 237. The guided visits will each last one hour and will be carried out from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 10.00am, 11.00am, 12.00pm, 6.00pm, and 7.00pm, as well as on Sundays at 10.00am, 11.00am, and 12.00pm.

Small town sustainability

IN recent years, Santa Pola has become a model of sustainability, combining environmental, social, and technological initiatives to create a cleaner and greener community. At the heart of this effort is the Municipal Council for Sustainable Development, a participatory platform that invites residents to contribute to urban planning and environmental policiesa campaign that aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the town’s Agenda 2030 objectives.

In the environmental sphere, Santa Pola has modernised its public lighting system, installing energy-efficient LED technology with smart controls. This upgrade, which was announced in May 2025, is projected to reduce energy consumption by 81 per cent and cut annual carbon dioxide emissions by over 1,300 tonnes.

Additionally, the town has used sustainable materials to improve its signage in the Sierra de Santa Pola, promoting

environmental awareness in protected natural areas.

Santa Pola is also fostering a ‘blue economy’ through the GALP (Local Action Group for Fisheries) Bahía de Santa Pola programme, which provides over €1 million in grants

community-led research and ecological restoration efforts. Together, these measures demonstrate Santa Pola’s commitment to creating a community that is environmentally responsible, socially engaged, and forward-loo-

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Victoria Car Hire UK Self Drive

WE are based in Horley town centre, just five minutes’ drive from Gatwick airport and a short walk to Horley mainline railway station.

On offer is a range of cars starting with small everyday cars and up to family-sized vehicles to include manual and automatic transmission. We also have a variety of both petrol and diesel fuelled engines. All cars are well maintained and presented in a clean condition.

We have full 24-hour AA breakdown cover. The most popular brands used include: Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, Citroen and Renault.

We meet our customers just outside the arrival terminal at Gatwick Airport at the authorised collection points at both the North and South terminals. We will then drive to the car rental office in Horley town centre, where the paperwork and payment are processed followed by a demonstration of the car controls and directions to the motorway if required.

The collection procedure is very efficient, taking a small amount of time

A range of cars are on offer.

and allowing the customer to swiftly proceed with their onward journey. At the end of the hire the customer returns the car to the rental office and will be driven to the departure terminal at Gatwick Airport.

Office hours are 9am - 4pm Monday to Friday, weekends by arrangement. An out of hours service is available for late arrivals and early morning departures. Subject to conditions.

Prices are from £125 per week, which is fully inclusive with no hidden extras, the fuel in the vehicles are taken on a like for like basis - if the tank is half full, it must be returned as so.

Debit and Credit card payment accepted. No hidden extras - Fully Inclusive Delivery & Collection - Gatwick Airport only Reservations: Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm Telephone: 0044 1293 432155 / jpselfdrive@hotmail.co.uk

Your

Should electric scooters require a licence? VOICE

IN recent years, electric scooters have become a popular way to get around towns and cities across Spain. With no need to pay for petrol or search for parking, they offer a cheaper and often more convenient alternative to cars and motorbikes. Lightweight, affordable, and environmentally friendly, these personal mobility vehicles (PMVs) are now commonplace. But as their usage grows, so too do questions about safety and responsibility.

One debate is whether riders should be required to hold a licence. The discussion was reignited recently after Torrevieja police stopped a scooter travelling at 135 kilometres per hour - more than five times the legal limit. Against this backdrop, Euro Weekly News asked its Facebook readers: should electric scooters require a licence?

An overwhelming majority of commenters believe that they should. While those like David Wardell and Gail McCafferty responded with a simple “yes,” others responded more passionately. Philip Markham and Martyn Heath both commented “100 per cent yes,” Belinda Griffiths said, “Definitely yes,” and Barry Sharp resounded, “Yes, yes, yes.” Joyce Gray expanded upon her “yes” by explaining that electric scooters are “a hazard on the road.”

Most readers responding to the poll remarked that a licence alone isn’t enough. Sheila Hounslow and Anita Oakes stated that insurance

and helmets should be required as well. Sandra Van Loan believed that riders also need to have high visibility bands, and Karen Poland noted that “a minimum age 16 with tuition and test resulting in a licence is a good idea.”

Lots of commenters also brought up the issue of bicycles, with people like Annette Dobson remarking that cyclists “are a hazard as well.”

Fiona Gilmore answered the poll by saying, “Only if electric cycle bikes need it, too. What’s the difference?”

Lee Henderson responded that both scooter riders and cyclists should require a licence and “a number plate.”

Then, there were individuals who felt more strongly about the issue, commenting that the scooters shouldn’t be allowed in the first place. Mike Kala, David Egner, and Edith Farminer all revealed their opinions that electric scooters “should be banned.” Angela Edgley responded, “A licence won’t make any difference. They need to be banned and people taught to walk again.”

The poll made one thing clear: most readers want stricter rules for electric scooters. While a few argued for an outright ban, the overwhelming consensus was that riders should at minimum hold a licence. With new DGT rules in 2026 requiring insurance, registration, and speed limits, readers’ calls for stricter scooter regulation are soon to become reality.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Robinhood’s AI

ROBINHOOD has launched Cortex Digests in the UK, an AI-powered tool summarising why stocks move using news, analyst ratings, market data, and trading activity. Free to users, it’s the first UK product from Robinhood Cortex, already rolled out to US customers.

Civil Service

THE Northern Ireland Civil Service has launched a recruitment drive for around 500 permanent Executive Officer 2 posts across multiple departments. Offering salaries from £30,548 plus benefits, the roles close for applications on August 29.

Coffee culture

SPAIN is seeing a boom in specialty coffee, with Madrid and Barcelona hosting dozens of ‘third wave’ cafés as Google searches surge. While the UK market has plateaued after early growth, Spain’s scene is still in its romantic phase, blending lifestyle and quality.

Trump tariffs

TRUMP’S tariffs have hit Spanish exports hard, with olive oil sales to the US -25.8 per cent and car exports -16.7 per cent in the first half of 2025. Overall, Spain’s trade deficit with the US has jumped 37 per cent. (Eurostat data.)

Hospitality rates

SPANISH hospitality rates have risen 22 per cent, pricing many locals out of staycations, according to Turespaña. VB Group CEO Jorge Espinós noted stagnant real incomes in Spain since the pandemic, while rising household incomes abroad, particularly in the UK, keep Spain attractive.

STAT OF WEEK

The growth of air traffic in Spain exceeded the European average by percentage points in July. 0.6

Spain’s public debt

SPAIN’S public debt stood at 103.4 per cent of GDP in June, marking a drop of 1.9 percentage points compared with the same month last year, according to the Banco de España.

While the debt-to-GDP ratio declined, the total amount of debt in cash terms continued to rise. Spain’s overall public debt reached €1.69 trillion, an increase of 4 per cent compared with June 2024.

The report added, ‘The debt of the Social Security Administrations stood at €126 billion, 8.6 per cent more than a year earlier and equal to 7.7 per cent of GDP.’

Looking at the structure of the debt, long-term bonds and securities rose by 4.6 per cent compared with June 2024, while long-term loans declined by 0.5 per cent. Short-term debt instruments were

also up, showing a 3.8 per cent increase year-on-year.

Even with its small decline, Spain’s debt remains among the highest in the euro area. According to Eurostat, the average debt-toGDP ratio across the eurozone was 88 per cent in early 2025.

Aggressive crypto tax

SPAIN’S taxation of cryptocurrency is under fire, with experts warning investors lack fair protection.

A recent case saw a compliant investor, who had already paid €5 million in taxes, hit three years later with an extra €9 million bill - despite no sales or profits. The Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT) classed movements of tokens into decentralised finance (DeFi) protocols, such as loans or staking, as taxable events. The investor’s lawyer told Periodista Digital, “The AEAT has taxed something that is not income... no gain, no change of ownership, no profit obtained.”

Article 33 of Spain’s tax law requires actual wealth in-

Green tourism

CAIXABANK has joined Green & Human, becoming the only financial institution in Spain’s leading sustainable tourism alliance.

The bank will support projects aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on financing, innovation, and inclusion.

David Rico, Managing Director of CaixaBank Hotels & Tourism, said the goal is to ‘transform tourism into a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative model.’ Green & Human projects have already cut 70 tonnes of CO2 and identified €120 million in initiatives.

The Banco de España confirmed that updated figures for July 2025 will be published on September 17, with detailed second-quarter statistics scheduled for September 30. Spain’s public debt has now fallen for the second consecutive year in relation to GDP.

crease, but critics say AEAT’s stance exceeds Spanish and EU legislation. Appeals go through the Finance Ministry’s TEAC, but investors must prepay or provides guarantees while accounts may be frozen.

Lullius Partners noted, “Spanish tax legislation still lacks clear guidelines on how cryptocurrency holdings should be taxed.” (Cited by Periodista Digital.)

Air Europa

TURKISH AIRLINES will invest €300 million for a 26–27 per cent stake in Spain’s Air Europa, making it the carrier’s second-largest shareholder after the Hidalgo family.

The deal, signed August 19, allows Air Europa owner Globalia to clear €475 million in pandemic debt. €275 million will begin as a loan, later converted into shares pending regulatory approval.

The move places Turkish Airlines ahead of Iberia’s parent IAG, which holds 20 per cent, after its full takeover attempt was blocked.

INTERSPORT SPAIN has entered liquidation after Barcelona’s Court No. 3 rejected its rescue plans. The group, comprising Intersport SL, Intersport Retail One SL, and Intersports CCS SA, failed to secure creditor approval for proposals including a 70 per cent debt write-off. Stores will stay open until the end of summer, while RCD Legal manages liquidation. Despite global revenue of €14 billion in 2024, Spain’s division faced unsustainable debt after seven years of financial struggles. Intersport France showed interest but withdrew.

BANKS in Spain are nearing record profits, with return on equity hitting 14.43 per cent in Q1 2025, close to the 14.66 per cent peak in 2021, according to the Bank of Spain. The six largest banks posted combined profits of €17.1 billion in the first half, up 8.5 per cent year-on-year, led by Santander and BBVA. Solvency also improved, with total capital ratio rising to 17.73 per cent and non-performing loans falling to 2.86 per cent.

THE latest Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) survey (July 2024-June 2025) has revealed the best and worst UK banks. Monzo topped rankings for both personal and business accounts in Great Britain, with Chase and Starling Bank close behind. Newcomer Mettle, from NatWest, placed second for business accounts. At the bottom, RBS finished last for personal accounts, while The Co-operative Bank scored lowest for business customers. In Northern Ireland, Monzo again led personal accounts, while Santander topped business banking. Allied Irish Banks ranked lowest in both categories.

THE British Business Bank has agreed an ENABLE Guarantee transaction of up to £300m with Close Brothers, boosting lending capacity for UK small businesses. The deal supports Close Brothers Asset Finance, covering hire purchase, leasing, and sale-and-hire purchase facilities. Asset finance hit a record £23.5bn in 2024, with one-third of UK investment in vehicles, machinery and equipment funded this way, according to the Finance & Leasing Association. Michael Strevens of the British Business Bank said the move ensures small firms ‘continue to access the finance they need - especially in tougher times’.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Quantum research

IBERDROLA España and the Basque Government have signed a long-term deal to boost quantum research under the BasQ Strategy. The partnership aims to apply quantum computing to smart grids, energy efficiency, and weather forecasting, strengthening the Basque Country’s role as a European innovation hub.

Cautious employers

UK private-sector pay settlements held at 3 per cent in the three months to July, down from 4 per cent last year, Brightmine said. Employers remain cautious amid economic uncertainty, April’s tax hike, and the looming autumn budget despite modest growth figures.

SPAIN has launched a major push to replace diesel trains with greener alternatives, with the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility beginning a data-gathering campaign that will run until September 2025.

The ministry is collecting technical and economic data on hydrogen-powered and battery-operated trains to see if they could replace diesel on key secondary routes.

The selected lines connect smaller cities and rural regions, where diesel remains the only option for mobility.

Spain’s national infrastructure operator Adif oversees an 11,672 km rail

Greener trains

SPAIN has blocked over 50 million scam calls and texts in six months under new rules targeting fraudulent communications. Since March, telecoms Orange, Vodafone and Telefónica have stopped nearly 48 million fake calls and 2.2 million scam SMS. Minister for Digital Transformation Óscar López said scams - often fake deliveries, bank impersonations or robotic job offers - were causing major economic damage. In June, Spain

Scam calls

banned telemarketing via mobile numbers, though fraudsters adapt. Scam calls now average 435,000 daily, with SMS detections up 86 per cent. Next year, the CNMC will launch an SMS sender code database to verify official senders like Correos or the DGT. Authorities urge vigilance.

network, but only 57.5 per cent is electrified. Authorities face a choice between full electrification and hydrogen or battery trains. Electric is the most reliable long-term option, with lower operational costs and efficiency gains. Hydrogen and battery trains promise reduced emissions but require new infrastructure and heavy investment.

The ministry’s study will compare these options in detail before deciding where to prioritise funding.

The strategy is part of Spain’s commitment to the European Commission’s climate goals, which require member states to cut transport emissions and modernise infrastructure.

By the end of 2026, Spain is expected to reveal whether it will electrify more of its network or invest heavily in hydrogen and battery technology.

Mo Gawdat

FORMER Google X boss Mo Gawdat says AI will soon replace white-collar jobs from podcasters to CEOs, calling claims that will create work ‘100 per cent crap’. Predicting a ‘short-term dystopia’ by 2027, he warned, “Unless you’re in the top 0.1 per cent, you’re a peasant.” Tech leaders like Nvidia’s Jensen Huang strongly disagree.

Financial crime

A THEMIS survey of 74 senior leaders found 69 per cent of firms are not yet using AI in anti-financial crime systems, but over 80 per cent plan adoption by 2030. Efficiency and tackling new risks drive uptake, though legacy tech, knowledge gaps, and regulatory uncertainty remain key barriers.

Fast walking discovery

FORGET the gym - new research shows you can cut your risk of an early death simply by fast walking for at least 15 minutes a day. A Vanderbilt University study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, tracked nearly 85,000 people over 16 years. Those who walked briskly for 15 minutes daily were 20 per cent less likely to die prematurely than slow walkers, who saw just a 4 per cent drop even if they clocked more than three hours a day.

Dr Wei Zheng, who led the study, says while 150

minutes of moderate activity a week is ideal, “fast walking as little as 15 minutes a day confirms substantiated benefits.”

you’re walking briskly if you can talk but can’t sing. Good form matters - stand tall, shoulders back, swing your arms in time with your steps, and practise nasal breathing to regulate blood pressure.

The perks go far beyond heart health: brisk walking helps lower blood pressure, improves cholesterol, reduces cancer risk, prevents type 2 diabetes, boosts immunity, and can protect against dementia. The UK’s NHS says

So come on, lace up, pick up the pace, and strut your stuff like it’s 1964 - because those extra minutes might just buy you extra years.

A SIMPLE brush may be all you need to give your skin a refreshing boost.

Dry brushing, an age-old practice enjoying a modern revival, involves sweeping a firm bristled brush across the skin to exfoliate, improve circulation and leave you feeling invigorated. Many people find it both energising and soothing, a ritual that quickly becomes part of their wellness rouly. Choose a natural bristle brush and always work on dry skin before showering. Start at the feet and move upwards with long, sweeping strokes towards the heart. This method is thought to stimulate lymphatic drainage while removing dead skin cells. Use light pressure at first, gradually increasing as your skin adjusts. Avoid brushing over sensitive areas, cuts or sunburn, and be particularly careful on the face where the skin is more delicate. After brushing, rinse off in the shower and follow with a nourishing moisturiser to lock in hydration. Just a few minutes of dry brushing several times a week can help your skin feel smoother and may leave you with a brighter, healthier glow. Consistency is the secret to reaping its benefits.

Finding your calm Tell tale nail

YOUR heart is racing, your chest feels tight and for a moment, it feels like the world is closing in. Panic attacks can strike without warning and often feel far more frightening than they actually are. For those who experience them, the fear of the panic itself can be just as overwhelming as the symptoms.

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense anxiety or fear, usually peaking within minutes. Common symptoms include a pounding heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, sweating, and a sense of losing control. Some people even fear they are having a heart attack. These episodes are not dangerous, but they can be deeply unsettling.

Panic attacks can be triggered by stress, trauma, phobias, or sometimes occur without an obvious reason. Understanding your triggers can help reduce their frequency. Breathing slowly, grounding techniques, and focusing on your surroundings can help bring you back to the present.

Long term, speaking to a therapist, practising min dfulness and ma na ging stress levels through regular activity can be helpful. You are not alone, and support is available. Learning to recognise a panic attack for

what it is can take away its power and remind yourself that you are in control.

HANDS often reveal more about our health than we realise, and nails in particular can be little storytellers. Many people notice ridges running along the surface of their nails, sometimes faint and sometimes more pronounced. While they may look concerning, in many cases ridges are a natural part of ageing.

Nail ridges usually appear in two ways. Vertical ridges, running from the cuticle to the tip, are the most common and are often harmless, linked to slower cell turnover as we get older. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, can occasionally point to underlying health issues such as nutritional deficiencies, illness or stress. To improve the appearance of ridges, focus on nail health from within.

A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and hydration supports stronger growth. Regular moisturising of the cuticles and nail bed helps too, as dryness can accentuate ridges. Gentle buffing may smooth the surface, but overdoing this can weaken nails.

Gravity defying

PERCHED more than 940 metres above Norway’s Lysefjord, Kjeragbolten is a five-tonne boulder wedged between two cliff faces, defying gravity and attracting adventurers worldwide.

Formed by retreating glaciers around 50,000 BC, this glacial relic remains stable, balanced perfectly in its crevice despite its precarious position above a one-kilometre abyss below. Its dramatic setting and the thrill of standing atop it, with nothing but air below and certain death, make it a pilgrimage site for thrill-seekers, Instagram influencers, and those seeking unforgettable moments like marriage proposals.

The boulder’s attraction lies in its breathtaking views of Scandinavia’s rugged fjords and the heart-pounding challenge of stepping onto its surface. “It’s like standing on the edge of the world,” said a recent visitor whose photo went viral. Reaching Kjeragbolten requires a demanding hike over steep, slippery terrain, unsuitable for those afraid of heights, yet no special equipment is needed, making it surprisingly ac-

cessible. Though its surface is wider than it appears, one misstep could be fatal, yet no recorded falls have occurred from the boulder itself, a testament to its stability.

Other than photo ops, Kjeragbolten draws base jumpers in wingsuits, though nearly 10 have died over the years. For now, it remains a bucket-list destination, offering a rare blend of natural wonder, adrenaline, and the chance to capture a once-in-a-lifetime moment for those daring enough to step onto the rock suspended over the void.

Costa del Sol

More retired than hired

MALAGA Province faces a growing youth unemployment crisis, with young people under 30 struggling to find work while an ageing workforce retires faster than new hires enter. The Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) reports Malaga’s overall unemployment rate dropped to 12.76 per cent in Q4 2024, with 108,700 unemployed, down 33,900 from 2023. Youth unemployment (ages 18-24) remains high, estimated at 20-25 per cent.

A Fundación Adecco study highlights a demographic crisis: over the next decade, Malaga expects 175,600 retirements but only 60,226 new workers, a ratio of 2.9 retirements per hire.

Andalucia faces a starker gap, with 854,300 retirements against predicted 290,957 new hires. This imbalance threatens Malaga’s tourism-driven economy, reliant on a steady workforce.

Andalucia’s youth unemployment remains high at 37 per cent, worsened by seasonal tourism and temporary contracts, fostering job insecurity.

Axarquia

From ideas to business

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA is once again betting big on talent.

The coastal town has just opened applications for the 11th edition of its Coworking EOI programme. It is a free acceleration space for entrepreneurs, freelancers and anyone ready to turn an idea into a good business.

Running from October 2025 to March 2026, the programme combines 60 hours of face-to-face training with 40 hours of individual mentoring. That means tailored guidance, expert advice and a strong support network. Perfect for those with a project in mind, but also for professionals looking to level up their model.

Since launch, the coworking initiative has already helped kick off 168 projects, backed by municipal investment that will reach €342,000 by the end of the 12th edition. The ideas are various, from tech startups to creative studios.

And here’s the best part, participation is 100 per cent free.

Mallorca

The ex-duke is back

THE return of Iñaki Urdangarin to Mallorca has caused enormous anticipation, not only because of the place he chose for his vacation, but also due to the surprising absence of Ainhoa Armentia.

Seeing Juan Carlos I’s former son-in-law jogging along Palma’s Paseo Marítimo has brought back many memories of an era marked by both highlights and shadows.

Seven years after the Supreme Court upheld the sentence handed down by the Provincial Court of Palma, which would have sentenced Urdangarin to five years and 10 months in prison, Infanta Cristina’s ex-husband has returned to Mallorca. He was imprisoned for embezzlement, prevarication, fraud against the Administration, two tax offences and influence peddling.

Speculation has run wild, rumouring that the former duke is staying at a local businessman’s villa and has plans to work or launch a project on the island.

Costa Blanca North Benidorm Pride

BENIDORM is counting down to the 15th anniversary of Benidorm Pride, one of the city’s most established annual events, which this year is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors - the majority being LGTBIQ+ tourists from Spain and abroad.

The celebration will run from September 1 to September 7, with a programme that brings together music, themed parties and cultural activities.

Santos Torres, organiser of the Pride, told Euro Weekly News that he is grateful for “the support and the great synergy” and explained that the motto chosen for this year is “More pride than ever!” He added: “This year there will be more parties and more leisure activities, alongside a strong cultural agenda to ensure Pride keeps its spirit of awareness and visibility.”

Torres also stressed that “Benidorm has consolidated a full LGTBIQ+ calendar throughout the year,” starting with the Benidorm Fest and Euroclub and finishing with the Pride.

Almeria Vineyard victory

IT’S officially wine season in Almeria, and the region is gearing up for a delicious harvest. For decades, Almeria has been famed for its fine wines and bountiful vineyards. Wine experts have noted that this year’s harvest looks particularly promising, as the grapes already picked look to be of excellent quality. This is mainly due to the healthy bouts of rain Almeria received in March of this year, strengthening the grapevines.

The heatwaves, though stifling in smaller Almeria towns (as locals can attest), didn’t much affect vineyards due to their high altitude. Moreover, though there was hail, it caused negligible damage to the vineyards, and other vine killers such as mildew were also sparse this year.

In Almeria, wineries work with a wide variety of grapes, which leads to high-quality varieties of wine. Their vineyards, some over 70 years old, consistently yield wines with greater aromatic concentration and excellent structure, praised by wine lovers all across Spain.

TWO residents of Torre Pacheco faced an unusual sight recently: an ATM in the town centre was suddenly spitting out banknotes onto the street. Instead of picking up the money, they did the sensible thing and called the police.

Local officers arrived quickly and collected all the cash, which totalled €2,000 in €10, €20, and €50 bills. Thanks to the quick action of the residents, not a single euro went missing.

It was later confirmed that the money belonged to a local person who had made a deposit at the machine earlier that morning. The bank and police praised the citizens for their honesty and quick thinking, noting how rare it is to see people act responsibly in such situations. The incident left neighbours talking about what they would do if they stumbled upon money falling from an ATM.

Thanks to the vigilance of a few residents and the swift response from the police, €2,000 found its way safely back to its rightful owner.

PETS

The cat said “come and play”

IF you love pets, you’ll love house and pet-sitting

At HouseSitMatch we love pets, in fact we love pets and their owners and the people who help us as sitters. In fact, we’re always looking for new members and one of the main common features is that we all love pets, whether we own them or care for them, or want to own them or want to care for them. Pets are it!

Pet-sitting like a friend

Our philosophy at HouseSit Match is petsit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wide network of checked sitters. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening. And the sitters pet-sit for free.

The pet-sitters come for free!

If you’re planning a trip in 2025 or 2026 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than

later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised now. All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed.

Join our pet and house-sitting network! Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register on HouseSitMatch. com

2. Choose a choice account (£129 per year) to ensure you have help online.

3. Create a profile with photos. How does it work?

We can help you find suitable sitters, or a suitable house-sit to visit somewhere new.

You get ID checked for safety and then build your profile as a sitter, and a house-sit advert as an owner. House-sitters apply through the published advert, homeowners choose the sitters they want to interview.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

Pure joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog. Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!

Lisa Stimpson, pet-sitter from the UK

How do you join? Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting benefits both parties, free house and pet-sitting, in exchange sitters get free accommodation!

Lamia Walker - Founder, HouseSitMatch.com - Mobile +44 (0)7772 142742

Zoomie zone

SUDDEN bursts of energy can turn your peaceful pet into a blur of paws and excitement. Known fondly as the zoomies, these wild sprints often take cats and dogs racing around the house, leaping off furniture or darting across the garden. Watching them in full flight can be both entertaining and slightly baffling, but this behaviour is completely normal.

Zoomies, or Frenetic Random Activity Periods, are a natural way for animals to release pent-up energy. For dogs, they might strike after a bath, during playtime or in the evening after a long nap. Cats are just as likely to dash about after using the litter tray or during their twilight hunting hours. In most cases, there is no need to intervene. Zoomies are harmless and help pets burn off excess energy. Just make sure the space is safe and free of obstacles they could hurt themselves on. Regular walks, play

way of shaking off

Letting your pet enjoy their joyful dash is usually the best approach - it is their way of shaking off stress and embracing the mo-

BUILDING SERVICES

J & J PAINTERS. Inside - outside - clean - fast - low cost. Torrevieja - Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (311284)

BUY & SELL

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

OVER 400 DVDs for sale. As new. €300 ONO. 0044 7971 459588 (WhatsApp) (305596)

FOR SALE WASGIJ/JIGSAWS

Several Wasgij 1,000 piece. Very good condition €9 each or 10 for €80. For further details call 699 307 503 or email dopetaz@ htomail.com Albatera (312548)

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 (95475)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (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 call number telephone: 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.lasiestaevangelical church.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 Telephone: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-costacovering 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)

THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION TORREVIEJA Branch (RNATB) meets throughout the year on the 1st Wednesday of each and every month at 1700. Currently this is at the Lakeview Bar & Restaurant, Calle Toledo 16, Ciudad Quesada 03170, Alicante. Or contact: The Chairman, Tony Jenkins. Email ChairmanRNATB@ Gmail.com  Mob: +34693866709 or +4470576117222 (What’s App). The Treasurer, Carl Louden. Email carllouden@msn.com  Mob +34678518202 (What’s App). The Secretary, Steve Hemigfield. Email SecretaryRNATB@gmail.

com Mob +34 711011372 (What’s App) (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 653 588 475 English and 620 907 474 Spanish or email strokesupportgroup@ hotmail.com, website: torre viejastrokesupport.org. 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-benijo far.com.  Telephone 711 060 171. Email martindroute66@ hotmail.com. Fiscal G54713789

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, MUTTIPLE SCLEROSIS and PARKINSON?.  NEW LOCATION: The club is held at Silverstones Bistro Restaurant. Avenida Romero, Montabello, (except July and 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 (302237)

FOR SALE/WANTED

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BATHROOM & KITCHEN

Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434. (303852)

LANGUAGE TUITION

LEARN Spanish/English with experienced teacher. Individual classes at home/work. Also translator service Doctor/Police. Andrew 628217813. (301948)

INSURANCE

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE - Car, Home, Travel Life, Business, all insurances covered! Funeral plans start from 2250€, with option of 5 years interest free payments. BEST RATES AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. Call or Whatsapp 622 275 561, email info@beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com or get an on-line quote www.beneficialinsurancein spain.com (313488)

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 (313264)

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 (305582)

MAGIC TOUCH, French, speaks 3 languages, professional masseuse, tantric. Apartment in Villamartin and home visits. Tel 693 357 526 (305795)

CLASSIC MATURE SPANISH LADY, Playa Flamenca area, private premises, all massage services from 50€. Ana 657 603 495 (301559)

SLIM appealing lady, 46, offering a pleasant massage. Mil Palmeras. OUTCALLS ONLY. Contact leilapuss@yahoo.co.uk (303976)

SPANISH MASSEUR private premises in Torrevieja. Contact me for relaxing massage. 655 494 123 (350059)

RELAX and unwind with a 1hr unique massage with Veronica. Shaving or permanent hair removal available. For appointments call 679 292 678 (301582)

MASSAGE FULL TOTAL RELAXATION 2 GIRLS IN 4 HANDS. TORREVIEJA 644 328 262. (311902)

MEETING POINT

QUIET RESPECTABLE slim, active, loving, caring. Villamartin widower, aged 81, solvent, own home. Short, not rich or handsome. Would like to meet a nice lady for friendship, companionship and happy times together. If interested please phone/ message me on 641 536 969 or email gtbainspain2025@gmail.com I look forward to hearing from you.

MISCELLANEOUS

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

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)

MOTORHOMES

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

MUSIC TUITION

PIANO, Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (301679)

OTHERS

KAMAGRA Gold 100mg, Kamagra Jellies, Super Viagra & Cialis (Weekender) available. Collection or delivery. Roy - 613 584 915 (295447) tp

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

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)

PLUMBERS

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (302237)

POOL MAINTENANCE

POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 865 758 056 / 676 945 360 www. pooltechspain.com (301486)

BYD reveals pricing for its all-new Atto 2

FOUNDED in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker Chinese car maker BYD has been an increasingly dominant presence with its model line-up gaining praise for the build quality and, in EV terms, affordable pricing. The company has announced prices for its lead-in, and what it says is its most accessible, SUV: the ATTO 2. The all-new ATTO 2 is available in two trim levels - Boost and Comfort - with prices starting from €35,618/£30,850 on-the-road for the Boost version, while the Comfort trim level starts at €40,355/£34,950 on-the-road.

Although more than happy on longer journeys the ATTO 2 is aimed at being more of an urban electric car, with no features normally the preserve of larger models. Standard equipment on the ATTO 2 includes such items as a 32.5cm/12.8inch central touchscreen that can be rotated between portrait and landscape positions at the touch of a button. Wireless smartphone charging; high-tech audio system with eight speakers; intelligent voice

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

hicle-to-load (V2L) technology, which enables owners to power external devices such as a coffee machine or lawnmower. Personally, I’m not quite sure I’d use the feature but perhaps out at the park for the day then it might well prove useful!

The lead-in trim Boost models feature a 51.1kWh battery which offers a potential range of up to 344km/214 miles in mixed driving and a potential range of 486km/302 miles for city driving. It is fitted with an 82kW DC on-board charger

which means it can charge from 30 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes if you locate one of the fast chargers that seem to be appearing more frequently. Meanwhile, higher trim Comfort models benefit from a larger 64.8kWh battery which offers up to 420km/261 miles of range. A 155kW on-board DC charger is fitted as standard, allowing the ATTO 2 to charge in as little as 21 minutes from 30 to 80 per cent. Again, suitable chargers being available.

The Blade Battery that powers BYD models is designed to deliver durability and performance. and, for the first time on a compact BYD, uses what is known as cell-to-body (CTB) technology. CTB integrates the battery completely into the vehicle chassis, with the top cover of the pack acting as the floor for the passenger compartment. The layout, which is unique to BYD and a first in the compact SUV segment, delivers improved packaging and exceptional levels of body rigidity.

Ronaldo’s new world record

CRISTIANO RONALDO, 40, has become the first footballer in history to score 100 goals for four different clubs on Saturday, August 24, when, however, he lost his third straight league final as Al Nassr lost to Al Ahli in a penalty shootout after the Saudi Super Cup final ended 2-2.

The Portuguese striker achieved the world record at Hong Kong Stadium, where he scored his 100th goal for the Saudi Arabian club, which he joined at the end of 2022.

Ronaldo also scored 450 goals for Real Madrid, 145 for Manchester United and 101 for Juventus. With this milestone, the footballer surpassed three players who had scored 100 goals for three clubs. Isidro Langar, who played in Spain from 1930 to 1948, and Brazilian forwards Romario and Neymar.

The striker, considered one of the best in the world and in history along with Lionel Messi, also holds the world record for most goals with a national team. He has scored 138 with Portugal.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored twice in the game against Al Ahli, once after 41

minutes and a second time from the penalty spot.

His three consecutive league final losses has put him ahead of Messi, who has never lost any club finals in a row. However, the Argentine player lost two backto-back losses in finals with his country’s national team.