Costa Calida 21 – 27 May 2026 Issue 2133

ONCE more, Cartagena showed its prowess as a shining cultural hub on the Costa Calida with a brand new edition of the ‘Night of the Museums’ event, which this year surpassed 50,000 visitors. The event was carried out under the slogan, ‘Culture to unite, history to understand’, and was a tribute to the more than 40 cultural, museum, and heritage sites located throughout the city, complete with a programme of activities for visitors to take part in. The event, which this year is in its 18th edition, saw a total of 52,989 peo -

ple participate. In addition to the visits to these landmark historic and heritage sites across Cartagena, more than 200

activities took place in the morning, afternoon, and evening of the day of the event.

The organisation for

this year’s edition relied on the collaboration of nearly 200 volunteers, carrying out their tasks in various heritage sites across the city. There was also a programme of activities open to all audiences, young and old, including routes and guided tours, children’s workshops, and other fun activities.

It is clear that with nearly 53,000 attendees and more than 200 activities for interested visitors to take part in, Cartagena is a cultural and heritage powerhouse not only on the Costa Calida, but in the whole of Spain.

Heritage hotspot Donor drive

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

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

One of the major points of the campaign was the ‘Run to Give Life’ Fun Run, a sporting event held on Sunday, May 10, in which more than 3,000 people participated. During the event alone, some 350 people registered as bone marrow donors. Amazingly, the hamlet of Barranda, in Caravaca de la Cruz, set up a table in the

Rock

‘n’ representing

Arde Bogotá films new video in historic Cartagena site

SPANISH alternative rock band Arde Bogotá proudly represented their hometown of Cartagena with the release of the first single from their long-awaited third album, and they have chosen none other than the Costa Calida municipality as a location to film the music video. The filming of the video was created in collaboration with the Cartagena City Council’s Film Office, and was directed by acclaimed creative director from Barcelona, Guillermo Aliaga.

The main location of the shoot was the old Navy optics workshop located in Los Barreros, an industrial building that belongs to the City Council and forms part of Cartagena’s architectural heritage. The building is a multi-storey tower that was previously used for submarine periscope testing, and is now one of the most recognisable industrial spaces in the urban landscape of the city. It is considered an important part of Cartagena’s landscape, as well as a significant heritage landmark for the city and for its people, including the members of Arde Bogotá.

Arde Bogotá is a popular rock band, having headlined the Cartagena Suena Festival 2025 and drawing nearly 40,000 people to the city’s El Batel Auditorium over two exciting days of concerts. Their first two albums, La noche and Cowboys de la A3 saw great success on both a national and international scale.

town square and was able to obtain 28

Luminous landmark

AFTER several weeks of testing, the new LED lighting of Lorca Castle has finally been unveiled. The Lorca Castle, also known as the Fortaleza del Sol, or Fortress of the Sun, is one of the most important heritage landmarks not only in Lorca, but in the entire Region of Murcia, and this lighting represents an investment of more than €300,000.

The project aims to enhance the cultural, tourist, and emotional value of this castle, which has become one of the most beloved places in the municipality. In addition to boosting the economic value of the area, the LED lights are also set to save money and energy, making it a more sustainable choice for the structure.

Creative camaraderie

THE Juan Martínez Juliá Leisure and Emerging Arts Centre, located in San Pedro del Pinatar, hosted a special day of camaraderie, coexistence, and fellowship in midMay, organised by the Aidemar Day Centre. The event took place on Saturday, May 16 and is now in its fourth edition.

These lights will allow for a more spectacular nighttime view of the Castle of Lorca and make the ancient structure a major visual attraction, from numerous places in the municipality. Officials are hoping it will consolidate

the fortress as one of the great nighttime tourist attractions in the entire southeastern region of Spain.

One of the largest castles in Spain, the Castle of Lorca is a medieval fortress constructed between the ninth and 15th centuries.

It boasts a series of defensive structures that, during the Middle Ages, made the town and the fortress an impregnable point in the southeast part of the Iberian Peninsula.

The day saw families and friends gather in celebration of coexistence and the work Aidemar does in order to help people with intellectual disabilities, along with their families. The event featured activities including a craft market with items made by people from the Aidemar organisation, as well as a circus performance.

As for the market, the products showcased were handmade and boasted the creativity and manual skills the artisans developed during the

centre’s various workshops and activities. The market was a major success, allowing attendees to purchase unique and handmade products, as well as contribute to the support of the social and educational initiatives promoted by Aidemar.

On the other hand, one of the highlights of the day was the 'Circus for All' performance, an inclusive event that uses circus arts as an educational, therapeutic, and social integration tool. The performance was full of vibrant colour, music, and emotion, and showcased the hard work of all the performers and the production staff that worked to make the show possible, all with a spirit of overcoming challenges.

Renta warning letters Blackout compensation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beware the bills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

euroweeklynews.com

MURCIA has shown its solidarity with the announcement of the seventh edition of the Annual Charity Gala of the Azul en Acción non-profit organisation, taking place at Teatro Romea. The event, which is set to take place on Thursday, May 28, will cost just €10 to attend and all the proceeds will go towards Azul en Acción’s charity projects, which benefit disadvantaged and vulnerable people in the Region of Murcia and beyond.

Gala for giving

Family friendships

CARTAGENA held a major celebration on Saturday, May 16, in Los Juncos Park, with their Family Day workshop. The activity was a chance for children, young people, parents, and grandparents to get together and enjoy a variety of leisure activities, fostering both participation, healthy activity, and coexistence among neighbours.

The event is set to take place at 8.00pm at the Teatro Romea, and will feature performances by the Discantus Choir and the Symphonic Band of the Cabezo de Torres Musical Group, who will perform ‘Carmina Burana’.

Azul en Acción was born within the Local Police of Murcia in the year 2000

with the aim of helping the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in the Region and beyond.

Tickets will be available at various points of sale, including Publishop, located at Calle Arquitecto Emilio Pérez Piñero 15 in Murcia; by contacting the Coral Discantus choir or the Agrupación Musical de Cabezo de Torres; on the day of the event at the Teatro Romea box office from 6.00pm onwards; and finally, via email at ong@azulen accion.com.

During the Family Day celebration, attendees enjoyed a mobile disco, a family photobooth, a car circuit, games, and workshops, including for makeup, canvas-painting, and badge-making.

The initiative was also aimed at helping families through various programmes and resources. The Cartagena City Council had set up an information tent to make resources available for children, adolescents, and families.

Additionally, it was noted that Cartagena has more than 1,000 availa-

ble free slots in municipal nursery schools, helping families save more than €500,000 a year and making it easier for parents to balance their work and family life.

The Cartagena City Council, during the event, also informed attendees of the direct maternity aid promoted by the city’s officials, as well as the family

respite programmes, and the home help and care programmes for those dependent on it.

During the event, a variety of social entities and groups that work in favour of child protection, inclusion, and family support participated. It was a day that fostered inclusion and connecting as a community.

Walk workout

THE Department of Youth of the Mazarron Town Council is preparing to launch a new healthy springtime initiative in the month of May, the CaminaFit Music Walk. This activity will come to the municipality for the very first time and combine sport, music, and entertainment in a fun initiative by the municipality’s famous seaside. The CaminaFit Music Walk will consist of an immersive walk along five kilometres of the coastline, where participants will walk to music through wireless headphones. This will merge physical exercise, dance, and fun in this workshop designed for people of all ages and fitness levels to participate.

With this initiative, Mazarron officials

aim to promote healthy lifestyle habits and offer active leisure alternatives, while also contributing to the physical and emotional well-being of the residents of the municipality. The experience will be fun, dynamic, and high in participation, so any interested parties are encouraged to register.

The meeting point for the activity on Sunday May 24 will be the Rihuete parking lot next to the Bowling Club. Checkin will begin at 9.30am and departure is scheduled for 10.00am. Registration costs just €5 and requires prior booking through the official website, caminafit.com

CaminaFit organisers will provide headphones to the participants.

Celebratory ceremony

LOCAL officers of the Guardia Civil have celebrated the astonishing 182nd anniversary of the founding of the law enforcement agency in Torre Pacheco. The ceremony, which took place on the morning of Monday, May 17, served as a symbolic renewal of the officers’ commitment to serving society, as well as a decoration and recognition of Guardia Civil officers who serve or have served in the Region of Murcia.

During the event, the Founding Decree of the Guardia Civil, dating back to May of 1844, was read aloud, and tributes were paid to the officers. Additionally, more than 20 decorations were awarded, including the Order of Merit of the Guardia Civil.

This event marks the reaffirmation of the values and principles on which the institution was founded, and celebrates and expresses gratitude towards the members of the law enforcement agency that have helped to make the Region of Murcia a safer place for both locals and visitors.

Today, 182 years after its original founding, the Guardia Civil is present

Theatrical talent

THE Costa Calida town of Mazarron is once again preparing to celebrate its young local talent and creativity within the fine arts, with the return of its popular ‘A Escena’ theatre programme. This is a popular cultural initiative that places young performers in the spotlight, and with a varied programme of works, the event is expected to be a major draw for locals and visitors alike this spring.

Running until Wednesday June 3, the event will

throughout all of Spain. Boasting more than 78,000 officers divided among 2,000 barracks and posts, the Guardia Civil is one of the principal law enforcement institutions in the country. The institution is also deployed in different international missions.

take place at the town’s Cultural Centre auditorium, where audiences can enjoy the programme free of charge. The initiative, organised by the Universidad Popular de Mazarron, unites schools, theatre groups and educational institutions in a celebration of drama, aimed primarily at children and young people in the municipality.

Forming a major part of ‘A Escena’ are the 29th Theatre Days for Children and the 24th Theatre Days for Youth, two events that highlight the importance of the performing arts in education. Morning performances are dedicated to younger audiences, with primary school students presenting imaginative and complex theatre productions.

As the curtain rises once again on the young talents of the Costa Calida, the ‘A Escena’ programme promises to bring together both performers and audiences in a shared celebration of storytelling, ensuring that theatre continues to thrive in this vibrant Murcia cultural and theatrical hotspot.

A Place in the Sun

SEAGATE

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

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

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

As Financial Advisers supporting expats in Spain, we specialise in

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

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

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

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

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

For Samaritans in Spain, they had not only lost their Patron but also a true friend of their cha-

Samaritans’ new patron

rity. Therefore, when the time came to appoint a new Patron, they could think of no one more fitting than Stevie’s very close friend, Nikki Gale.

Nikki grew up in Gloucestershire and lived the -

re for most of her life until her parents retired to Spain, where she quickly established herself as an entertainer. During this time, she formed a close, unbreakable friendship with Stevie. They perfor -

med together for many years until his sad passing.

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

shared love of helping others brought them even closer. On accepting the role of Patron of Samaritans in Spain, Nikki said, “Having now lost both of my parents and faced many personal struggles of my own, I feel a deep connection to Samaritans in Spain. I am committed

to raising awareness and funds for this vital charity wherever I can.” Samaritans in Spain provides a confidential listening service to ALL English speakers in Spain. FREEPHONE 900 525 100 from 10am to midnight. www.samari tansinspain.com

AVE expansion

SPAIN’S rail operator

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

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

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

By 2030, around 20.7 million people

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

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

UK’s most wanted

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

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

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

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

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

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

I’m showing my age

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

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

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

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

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

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

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

New tourist municipalities

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

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

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

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

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

Sun, sea, and your new vision with Baviera

Enjoy summer without depending on glasses

SUMMER is a season defined by light, colour, and the joy of outdoor living. Whether you are relaxing on the coast, exploring the countryside, or enjoying city life, everything feels better when you can see clearly. From sunrise swims to late-night dinners with friends, your vision is the lens through which you experience life’s best moments.

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FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Primark expands

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

Copper highs

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

Nissan layoffs

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

Profits hit

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

Datacentres drain

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

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

Short-term surge Bid rejected

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

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

The government has made a

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

Singer sues Samsung

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

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

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

Additionally, Lipa owns the copyright of the photo-

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

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

Ready meal uproar Shopping trends

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

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

Employment paradox

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

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

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

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

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

Essentials only

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

Labour danger

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

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Airtel Africa 325,00 327,00 322,40 171,27K

Anglo American 3.759,0 3.793,0 3.759,0 108,14K

Antofagasta 3.764,00 3.784,00 3.729,00 43,08K

Associated British Foods 1.778,0 1.783,0 1.775,0 10,74K

AstraZeneca 13.548,0 13.558,0 13.439,9 79,06K

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

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

B M European Value Retail 156,10 157,50 155,40 201,12K

BAE Systems 1.850,00 1.853,50 1.837,50 297,75K

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

Barratt Redrow 237,50 240,80 235,70 402,17K

Beazley 1.281,00 1.281,50 1.280,50 16,29K

Berkeley 3.200,0 3.228,0 3.190,0 4,16K

BP 562,40 565,80 558,36 1,31M

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golden Leaves International continues major expansion across Spain

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

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

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

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

both existing and new clients has been overwhelmingly positive.

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

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

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

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

UK regulation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Customer service you can understand

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOPTrending

Wuthering Heights

FRESH from the big screen, Wuthering Heights finally made its streaming debut on HBO MAX. Unfortunately, Margot Robbie’s talent for embodying classic pop-culture characters failed her this time.

The revolutionary source material was hollowed out and turned into a mocking bodice-ripper made to go viral rather than revitalising the story. If I took one thing from this film it’s that I’m glad I didn’t pay to see it in cinemas.

Remarkably Bright Creatures

FOR anyone who can appreciate the tranquillity of strolling through an aquarium, this film is for you. Remarkably Bright Creatures follows two people - an elderly cleaning lady and a young wannabe rock star - weighed down by grief. The film depicts their unlikely bond with each other, and also with a grumpy octopus at the local

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Movie shoot

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

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

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

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

Axarquia

Cruise influx

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

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

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

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

Mallorca

Balearic Boating Day

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

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

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

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

Costa Blanca South Runway rush

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

According to figures released by AENA, the airport handled 1,921,861 passengers during April. representing an increase of 10.9 per cent compared with the same month last year.

International travel once again drove most of the growth. More than 1.69 million passengers travelled on international flights during April, marking a year-on-year increase of 12.3 per cent.

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

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

Almeria

Charity triumph

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

As the Walk for Life race grows in popularity, so does the charity’s capacity to provide life-changing support. Even the smallest donation can make a big difference. The Walk for Life Arboleas team is blown away by the overwhelming generosity and continued support from the community.

On Thursday, October 1, Sharon Regan will star in a charity benefit concert that is better suited to those who prefer an evening of entertainment over an afternoon of exercise.

Costa Blanca North Denia moves

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

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

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

Little nibbles

PUPPIES explore the world with their mouths, but sharp little teeth can quickly become a problem. The good news is that biting is a normal stage of development, and with patience, it can be managed effectively.

One of the best ways to reduce biting is to redirect the behaviour. When your puppy nips at hands or clothing, calmly offer a chew toy instead. This teaches them what is acceptable to bite and what is not. Consistency matters. If one person allows rough play while another discourages it, the puppy will become confused.

Short training sessions work best. Puppies have limited attention spans, so five minutes of focu-

sed practice is often enough. Reward calm behaviour with praise or treats. Dogs learn faster when good behaviour leads to something positive. It is also important to avoid encouraging biting during games.

Wrestling with hands may seem harmless at first, yet it can make puppies think human skin is part of playtime. Instead, use balls or tug toys.

Socialisation helps too. Puppies that spend time with other well-behaved dogs often learn bite control naturally through play. Above all, stay patient. Training takes time, but gentle guidance and routine will help your puppy grow into a calm and well-mannered companion.

Chasing the words

A Border Collie named Chaser had the largest vocabulary of any other known dog. Chaser was trained by Dr John Pilley in the US and was taught more than 1,022 names of items. She could recognise and categorise them according to function and shape, which is something a human learns to do around the age of three.

Pet-sitting with a

CARING for pets of all persuasions

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

Fancy a new adventure in petsitting?

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

cat under house

1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com

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

3. Match with the perfect house-

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

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

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

Join today

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

Trustpilot

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

Kay Lattimore, April 2, 2026

Shedding season

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

MASSAGE

ELEGANTE, slim Sophie. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can

travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (314062)

INSURANCE

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)

OTHERS

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