Costa Calida 23 - 29 April 2026 Issue 2129

THE Costa Calida town of Aguilas has been nominated by readers of National Geographic as one of the top beach destinations in Spain, alongside other hotspot locations in the country including Calvia in Mallorca and L’Ametlla de Mar in Tarragona. As the weather gets steadily warmer, visitors begin to arrive in Spain, and thoughts begin to turn to beach and coastline fun, the Costa Calida has been at the forefront of the options among the best beaches in Spain, reaching the final stage of a shortlist created by science and nature magazine National Geographic.

Aguilas, located to the west of Puerto de Maza-

Best beaches

in Spain

rron, has been selected among some 200 sites.

To be specific, Aguilas was chosen for its popular beaches on the coastline of Cabo Cope and the Sierra de Almenara. The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches and

THE municipality of San Pedro del Pinatar hosted the 16th edition of the Marina de Las Salinas Triathlon with booming success, consolidating a sporting event in the regional calendar that stands out for its high participation, with more than 300 registered athletes. The event is also famed for the natural environment in which it takes place, traversing through some of the most idyllic areas of the municipality. The Marina de Las Salinas Triathlon forms part of the league and mega-league of the Triathlon Federation of the Region of Murcia and the Regional Sprint Triathlon Championship. The event brought together hundreds of

secluded hidden coves, but also for its diversity of water activities, including a prominent snorkelling and watersports community.

The Aguilas coastline is also popular due to the lack of crowds. Com -

pared to the beaches of Barcelona or the Balearic Islands, Aguilas is an increasingly beloved destination for those looking for a holiday away from crowds, tourist culture, and bustling resorts.

Triathlon triumph

Marina de Las Salinas celebrates 300 registered competitors

addition to international participants.

The competition took off from La Llana beach, where the triathletes faced the 750-metre swim, followed by a demanding 20-kilometre cycling segment around the salt flats and the port, finishing with a five-kilometre run around the Villa de San Pedro and the Las Salinas marinas. The event also boasted a commitment to the environment under its Green Sport Flag seal, marking the sustainability of the triathlon.

‘Friki’ fun

Mazafreak celebrates 4th edition

MAZARRON is celebrating the successful fourth edition of its favourite ‘friki’ convention, Mazafreak. The event returned with a packed programme featuring VR experiences, special guests, an artist’s alley, a cosplay contest, and many more activities celebrating gaming, anime, comics and alternative entertainment.

The event, organised by the Youth Department of the Mazarron Town Council, was a booming success as it has been in previous editions. Taking place at the La Cañadica pavilion and free to enter, the venue was packed with fans and their families, enjoying the various fun-filled activities and games available at the convention.

One of the most important aspects of the event was the cosplay competition, where residents

of Mazarron dress up as their favourite character from pop culture. The competition attracted a fair share of spectacle among the attendees, as characters from KPop Demon Hunters, Call of Duty, and Chainsaw Man made appearances. Mazafreak was celebrated as a day of alternative culture, leisure, and entertainment, promoting creativity and youth participation in the municipality.

Swift service

ACCORDING to the latest report published by the Ministry of Health, the Region of Murcia has registered a below average waiting time for both surgical procedures and outpatient appointments in 2025. Patients treated in the Region wait an average of 18 days fewer for surgery, and 13 days fewer for outpatient consultations.

On average, patients treated by the Murcian Health Service wait an average of 102.76 days for surgery, compared to the national average of 121 days. On the other hand, Murcian patients wait an average of 89.33 days for outpatient consultations, compared to the national average of 102 days.

Wait times for surgeries decreased an average of 4.39 compared to one year prior, whereas wait times for specialist appointments decreased by an average of 7.67 days. Finally, wait times for diagnostic tests decreased by 3.29 days compared to 2024.

Medical areas that have experienced the most signi cant decrease in waiting times are Rehabilitation, Pulmonology and Ophthalmology in outpatient consultations. The gures have also improved in the Pediatric Surgery, General Surgery, and Urology areas.

During 2025, the Region of Murcia’s hospitals performed a total of 127,052 surgical procedures, of which 14,577 were urgent and the rest were scheduled.

In addition, 2.4 million face-to-face consultations were carried out during the year.

Coastal challenge

MAZARRON has opened registration for the fth edition of the Faro de Mazarron Swimming Crossing, a long-awaited event that combines water sports and tourism in the municipality.

The event, set to take place on Friday, May 1, not only represents a formidable challenge for the athletes who will participate, but also an opportunity for the municipality to showcase its natural environment and promote healthy lifestyles among the residents.

The Faro de Mazarron Swimming Crossing will take place on Mazarron’s idyllic coastline, and will bring together swimmers from all over the Region of Murcia and beyond. These athletes will face the waters of the Mediterranean in a unique experience combining sport, nature, and personal improvement.

It is set to begin at 10.00am from Mazarron’s Playa de La Isla. From there, the swimmers will traverse a total of 3,200 metres, reaching the lighthouse cape and conti-

nuing around the entire cape until they reach the nish line, located on the shore of Playa Puerto.

For interested athletes, registration for the event will be open until Tuesday, April 28 at the event’s o cial website, lineadesalida.net. The Mazarron Town Hall has encouraged residents and visitors to participate in this fun- lled and active sporting event, which has quickly become a major highlight of the municipality’s calendar of activities.

Waiting for tax refund WHEN MONEY RETURNS

IF your tax return in Spain shows money due back, the main question is when the Agencia Tributaria (Hacienda) will pay. Some taxpayers receive refunds within days, while others wait weeks or months. Timing depends largely on when you file, how straightforward the return is, and whether further checks are required.

Many simple online returns are processed quickly, often within one to three weeks. This typically applies to those with standard employment income, no unusual deductions and no significant changes during the tax year. Filing early can also help speed up the process.

There is no universal payment date. By law, Hacienda has up to six months after the end of the filing campaign to issue refunds. As the campaign usually ends in late June, the legal deadline often runs until the end of December. Delays do not necessarily indicate a problem.

Earlier submissions are generally handled sooner, and simpler cases move faster than returns involving rental income, self-employment, foreign assets or multiple income sources. Errors, such as incorrect bank details or mismatched figures, can also cause delays.

If the refund seems slow, you can check the status through the official Agencia Tributaria website. If documents are needed, Hacienda will contact you through official notifications. Taxpayers should stay cautious of fake emails or texts promising instant refunds. Expats and foreign residents may wait longer if international income or tax treaties require review. Checking your status online and ensuring accurate details can help avoid unnecessary hold-ups.

Petrol station strike

SPAIN’S two largest trade unions in the fuel retail sector, UGT FICA and CCOO Industria, have called strike action at petrol stations nationwide after negotiations over a new collective agreement broke down. The unions say talks had progressed, but employers later returned with reduced offers on pay and working conditions, prompting the dispute. The planned stoppages are scheduled for Thursday April 30, from midday until 4.00am, and a full 24-hour strike on Sunday May 3.

The disagreement centres on the national agreement covering petrol station employees, including forecourt workers, shop staff and other service station personnel. In Spain, collective agreements set minimum standards on wages, working hours, leave and workplace conditions across entire

sectors, so delays in reaching a deal can create uncertainty for workers and businesses alike.

For drivers, the most likely effect will be reduced staffing at some stations, leading to longer queues, slower service and temporary closures depending on participation levels. The shorter stoppage on April 30 may cause disruption around lunchtime and ahead of the May Day holiday, when travel usually increases. The 24-hour strike on May 3 could have a wider impact if turnout is high.

Motorists are advised to fill up in advance, especially before long journeys. Urban areas with many petrol stations may be less affected than smaller towns or rural routes, where alternatives are more limited.

Overtime crackdown

Hospitality warning

RESTAURANTS, bars and cafés across Spain are being warned that requiring staff to work unpaid extra hours could result in fines of up to €225,018 in the most serious cases. Under Spain’s labour sanctions system, businesses that repeatedly breach working time rules or push employees beyond legal limits face significant penalties, particularly as the busy tourism season approaches.

The warning is especially relevant to the hospitality sector, where long shifts, staff shortages and sudden rush periods are common.

Spanish law generally sets a 40-hour working week on average, although contracts and collective agreements may vary. Overtime is regulated separately and must comply with legal limits and compensation rules.

Employers are also required to keep accurate working time records, which are key during inspections or disputes.

Fines vary depending on severity. Minor breaches bring smaller penalties, but repeated offences, multiple affected workers, falsified records or obstruction of inspections can increase sanctions substantially.

The highest fines are reserved for the most serious cases.

Workers are advised that occasional late finishes are normal, but regular unpaid overtime should prompt a review of contracts, payslips and recorded hours. Employers are urged to prepare ahead of summer demand by reviewing staffing, contracts and time-tracking systems.

euroweeklynews.com

Loneliness lifeline

THE Region of Murcia has presented the first Regional Strategy to combat loneliness in its older residents, with the implementation of a 24-hour helpline that provides support and intervention. The helpline, 065, is managed by the Telephone of Hope, a non-profit organisation that has been operating in the region for nearly 50 years.

The aim of the helpline is to offer listening, emotional support, and accompaniment for older residents of the region. Additionally, the helpline has been put into place to detect possible risk situations involving the residents.

Beekeeping boost

The plan detailed in the Regional Strategy includes the creation of local committees in all municipalities of the region, involving social services, health centres, senior centres, and shops and pharmacies, in order to effectively activate alert signals for possible cases of isolation.

The strategy has been outlined following a period of careful and thorou-

gh research. Data extracted from the investigation has shown that one in five people over the age of 65 admit to feeling lonely, a situation that can worsen with age, health problems, or the loss of a friend or loved one.

To be developed between 2026 and 2030, this strategy is estimated to benefit more than 50,000 elderly people in the Region of Murcia, and improve the coordination and organisation of existing resources.

THE Regional Ministry of Environment, Universities, Research and Mar Menor has completed the awarding of beekeeping rights in publicly owned forests in Murcia for the 2025/2026 season, which will make it easier for beekeepers to gain access to natural environments and reinforce the

conservation of biodiversity.

The measure received no objections from the public, and through a public tender, beekeepers will now have access to licences that will allow them to set up beehives in natural areas in Murcia. This will not only support rural economic activity, it will also protect the traditional art of beekeeping, and improve biodiversity via pollination.

This effort will also encourage surveillance of the natural forests and thus, strengthen fire prevention, a major talking point in Murcia.

The importance of bees for local flora and fauna

cannot be overstated. Bees enable the reproduction of flowering plants by pollinating them; some 75 per cent of global food crops depend, at least partially, on pollinators like bees. Without them, plants would not be able to reproduce. As bee populations decline due to factors including damaging pesticides, habitat loss, climate change, and widespread diseases, it is imperative that regions like Murcia reinforce these kinds of positive initiatives to protect the bees, protect the forests, and reinforce biodiversity in their stunning natural areas.

Bohemia artisan market plans

THE Cartagena Local Government Board has approved rules for stall permits at Plaza Bohemia in La Manga for summer seasons 2026 and 2027, moving the site towards an artisan market model.

Councillor for Commerce, Hospitality and Consumer Affairs Belén Romero said the market plays important role in tourism and economic activity in La Manga. She noted Plaza Bohemia is a key point for summer visitors and the aim is quality, artisan-only selection that adds value to the shopping experience while supporting small artisans and entrepreneurs.

She also referred to success of a similar model at the Cartagena Cruise Terminal where the artisan market worked well and said it will be applied in La Manga. The market will run

from June 15 to September 15 each year, with sales limited to artisanal goods and jewellery. Some 30 stalls will be included, and each must comply with rules: 4x2 metre metal structure, specified-colour canvas, and minimum clear height of 2.25 metres. Authorisations will last two years covering 2026 and 2027, with

competitive scoring maximum 10 points. Individuals or companies in retail trade registered for Social Security and IAE, up to date with tax obligations, and holding public liability insurance. Applications must be submitted via Cartagena City Council site within 10 working days after publication of rules on municipal site.

Glass gains

Murcia recycles more than 83 million glass containers

THE Region of Murcia recycled more than 24,300 tonnes of glass in 2025, according to data released by Ecovidrio, a Spanish non-profit organisation dedicated to the proper disposal and recycling of glass waste in the country.

According to Ecovidrio, each resident of Murcia recycled an average of 15.3 kilograms of glass in 2025, equivalent to some 52 containers per person. In total, more than 83 million glass containers were deposited in the green recycling bins in the Region of Murcia, equivalent to about 227,000 containers per day and around 158 per minute.

It is estimated that the glass recycling in the Region of Murcia prevented the emissions of more than 14,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. According to Ecovidrio, this is equivalent to taking more than 6,800 cars off the road for an entire year. It also prevented the extraction of more than 30,200 tonnes of raw materials.

THE Costa Calida city of Cartagena has surpassed 222,500 inhabitants in 2026, reinforcing a strong demographic growth with 6,500 more residents than a decade ago. In particular, the city saw sustained growth in Rincon de San Gines and El Algar, with a particular spike in foreigners arriving to the city.

With the new figures, the city also boasts 354 more people than a year ago, representing a 0.16 per cent increase and reinforcing a positive trend that has been maintained for years.

The data, which was published on Cartagena’s municipal website, shows that there is a slight female majority in the city, with 111,980 women in Cartagena compared to 110,579 men.

City surge

The numbers also show a significant growth in the foreign population, with 28,818 people of other nationalities now residing in the municipality, representing 722 more foreign residents than a year ago. Notably, among foreign residents, men outnumber women with 15,097 male foreigners compared to 13,721 female foreigners. Of the foreign nationalities, Moroccan people form the majority.

Dressage contest

MAZARRON will stage a Dressage Territorial and Initiation Contest on Saturday April 25 at the Club Hípico Virgen del Milagro. The equestrian event is aimed at enthusiasts of horse-riding disciplines and will bring together riders of different levels for a full day of competition.

The programme includes several challenges, covering Classical Dressage and Initiation Dressage. The format is designed to support participation from both experienced competitors and those taking their first steps in the discipline.

Prizes and trophies are planned for participants across the categories. The event also includes a canteen service for attendees and companions throughout the day.

The contest forms part of sports promotion activities in the area and is su-

pported by various organisations and entities, reinforcing Mazarron’s position within equestrian sport events. Local authorities have encouraged residents and visitors to attend and spend the day following the competitions at the Club Hípico Virgen del Milagro. The day is intended to provide space for learning and competition within the discipline, with classes adapted to varying experience levels.

Olive oil prices warning

OLIVE oil prices in Spain could rise again before summer, as strong demand and lower-than-expected supply begin to tighten the market. Recent data from Spain’s food market authority shows that around 60 per cent of this season’s olive oil has already been sold midway through the campaign. At the same time, production is slightly below early forecasts, following weather-related impacts earlier in the year.

This combination is creating pressure on available stock levels, with industry representatives warning that reserves could fall significantly before the next harvest.

For consumers, this does not mean olive

oil will disappear from supermarket shelves. However, it does increase the likelihood of price rises in the coming months, particularly as demand grows during the summer season.

Spain remains the world’s largest olive oil producer, but global demand continues to stay strong, keeping pressure on supply. According to data from the International Olive Council, consumption remains high, reinforcing the current market trend.

For residents and expats, the impact is likely to be felt gradually. Olive oil is a staple in everyday cooking, meaning even small increases can affect household budgets, as well as restaurant and food prices across Spain.

Trapped on a ferry

PASSENGERS on a ferry travelling between Tarifa and Tangier were left stranded on board for more than three hours after a mechanical fault disrupted the crossing. The vessel su ered a technical failure while ope-

rating across the Strait of Gibraltar, preventing it from completing its scheduled arrival manoeuvres at the port of Tarifa. As a result, normal docking and disembarkation procedures could not take

place once the ferry reached its destination.

The disruption occurred during the nal phase of the journey, when arrival procedures were already underway. The Tarifa–Tangier route is a short international ferry connection between Spain and Morocco that relies on coordinated maritime operations and border control systems. Because of this structure, technical issues can a ect both port logistics and passenger processing.

Passengers remained on board during the delay while the situation was assessed. Travellers were unable to disembark despite being close to the port, with the delay linked to both the mechanical fault and ongoing procedural steps. Once the issue was resolved, the vessel completed its arrival and passengers were allowed to leave. The incident was treated as an operational disruption a ecting only a single crossing.

Rat resistance grows

SPAIN is facing a growing challenge as experts warn that some rat populations are becoming resistant to common poisons, raising concerns for cities and public health. The issue is linked to decades of using anticoagulant rodenticides. Over time, the most resistant rats survive and reproduce, gradually creating populations that are harder to eliminate. According to the European Chemicals Agency, resistance to these substances has already been observed in parts of Europe, including Spain.

Urban areas are particularly affected. Large cities provide easy access to food and shelter, allowing rats to thrive. As a result, pest control efforts may become less effective, leading to more frequent sightings in streets, parks and near waste collection points.

Local authorities continue to manage infestations, but experts say strategies may need to evolve. Instead of relying mainly on poison, there is increasing discussion about alternative approaches, including improved waste management and new methods such as fertility control.

For residents, the impact is mostly indirect, but visible. Higher rat activity can affect perceptions of cleanliness and raise concerns about hygiene, especially in densely populated neighbourhoods.

While the situation is not considered out of control, specialists warn that adapting pest control methods will be key in the coming years. Without changes, so-called ‘super rats’ could become a more common feature of urban life across Spain.

Arenillas offers free housing

THE village of Arenillas, located in the ‘España Vaciada’ heartland of Soria, is offering free housing and guaranteed employment to attract new families. With the winter population hovering around just 40 residents, the local town council has launched a practical ‘Home & Job’ package.

The offer includes rent-free accommodation in a renovated municipal house and a dual employment opportunity: one adult will be hired as a municipal bricklayer for infrastructure maintenance, while the family takes over the management of the essential village bar.

For expats already holding Spanish residency, the immediate consequence is a chance to bypass rising urban costs, provided they can commit to long-term rural integration. While the scheme

does not provide visas for non-EU citizens, it offers a 2026 lifeline for legal residents seeking stability. The village has already received over 116 applications, leading to a waiting list. A primary requirement is that families must have school-age children to ensure generational renewal; the town provides free daily transport to the nearby school in Berlanga de Duero.

Arenillas has spent 40 years fighting depopulation by restoring seven municipal houses. This latest drive targets families ready for a radical lifestyle shift in exchange for total financial security. While the ‘bar-social club’ is the heart of the village’s social life, officials warn that the role requires a genuine desire to become the pillars of a tiny, close-knit community.

A second viewing

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

JUST thinking the other day of how the whole business of dating has changed. Not only a little - but completely. Back in the day, meeting someone had a certain, shall we say, unpredictability about it. You might spot them across a beach, a bar, or be introduced by a friend.

Half the battle was finding the courage to say hello in the first place. I remember being around 13, strutting along Eastbourne beach attired in what, in those days, passed for a bathing costume, when I spotted a young lady of similar age who, to my youthful eyes, although clad in an acceptable ‘one piece’ looked nothing short of magnificent. Summoning every ounce of courage I possessed, I actually went over and after a few stuttering utterances, managed to asked her out. To my amazement, she said yes. We agreed to meet the following day in the park.

I spent the next 24 hours in a state of nervous excitement. And then she

arrived. Now, I don’t wish to sound unkind, but let’s just say the transformation was, well remarkable. The glamorous vision of the beach had now, fully clothed, quite mysteriously, failed to make the journey to the park. It was, for me, an early and valuable lesson in the dangers of first impressions. Still, that was dating.

A mixture of courage, and the occasional sharp dose of reality. But here’s the thing, we didn’t go into these encounters expecting anything other than conversation.

A walk, perhaps an ice cream if you were feeling flush, and if things went particularly well, you might - just might - spend several evenings working your way up to a goodnight kiss. And even that required timing, judgement, and no small amount of nerve.

It was altogether a delicate business. Contrast that with the story a young friend told me recently. She’d met a chap online and, after much messaging, agreed to go on a first date. All very modern and efficient.

They met for dinner, sat down, ordered and while she was waiting for her meal to arrive, her companion, sitting

right there opposite her, was busy on his phone. At first, she thought nothing of it.

Until she realised, he was messaging someone else, apparently arranging his next date! Now, I may be old-fashioned, but even at 13 I knew that if you were lucky enough to be sitting with a girl who’d agreed to go out with you, your attention was very firmly in one direction. It seems that particular rule has managed to slip a little.

These days, from what I can gather, things move at a rather more, athletic pace! A few taps on a screen, a quick meeting, and before you know where you are, the whole business of getting to know someone has been treated as something of an optional extra. Progress I suppose.

Mind you, looking back on that young girl from Eastbourne, perhaps a little more advance information wouldn’t have gone amiss after all. I must admit, if I were 13 again today, I might be tempted to insist on a second viewing, preferably fully dressed.

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.

British tourist vanishes

A BRITISH tourist has disappeared in Barcelona after reportedly having all of his belongings stolen, leaving him unable to board his flight home to the UK.

Daniel Thomas, 51, was last seen on Saturday April 18 at around lunchtime, shortly after his passport, mobile phone, bank cards and money were stolen. The theft meant he could not travel and had no way to contact friends or family, raising urgent concerns when he failed to check in for his return journey.

Authorities are now working to trace Thomas’s last known movements, including reviewing CCTV and speaking to potential witnesses. The loss of his belongings is a key focus of the investigation, as it may have left him particularly vulnerable.

There has been no confirmed sighting since Saturday, and concern is growing as the search continues for the missing tourist.

Friends say his sudden disappearance is completely out of character. An appeal has been issued by Alix Harvey, who urged the public to help find him, writing: ‘PLEASE HELP!’ while confirming both British and Spanish police have been alerted. The British Consulate in Spain has also been informed.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Football piracy

AS footballers fight it out on the pitch, telecom companies are fighting behind the scenes to prevent football piracy, which La Liga estimates to cost €700 million worth of economic losses for rights holders a year. However, a new ruling by the Catalan court authorises Movistar Plus+ to request all Spanish telecommunication operators block websites showing Telefonica-owned sporting content, effectively disabling pirating platforms. Additionally, there will be a renewed effort to prosecute owners of pirating sites.

Retail leader

SPAIN leads retail growth in major European economies, driven by Inditex and Mercadona. The sector is growing by 3-5 per cent annually, outperforming peers thanks to innovation and adaptation. Inditex’s sales rose 3.2 per cent to €39.9 billion, while Mercadona grew 8 per cent to €41.9 billion

JCB relocates

BRITAIN’S new inheritance tax change has not been popular with the British elite, with many threatening to leave the UK to avoid paying. Amongst the dissatisfied is Jo Bamford. As heir to the multibillion-pound JCB empire, he would be faced with a hefty tax bill when time comes to take over. As a result, Bamford has said he is considering relocating the business, which owns 11 factories and employs over 8,000 workers, to the US.

Rescue exports

UKEF secured £128 million in loan guarantees for submarine rescue exports to Indonesia, supporting British industry and jobs. The agreements strengthen UK-Indonesia trade ties, boost supply chains, and drive industrial growth. Over £67 million benefits UK suppliers, with £39 million supply-chain input and approximately £30 million contract value.

STAT OF WEEK

Holidays hit

HOLIDAYS are a beloved annual tradition, yet ongoing global conflicts and a cost of living crisis is forcing many to postpone their upcoming trips.

For the first time since before the pandemic travel restriction was lifted in March 2021, travel spending fell by 3.3 per cent, according to new data from Barclays. Almost every sector of the travel industry has experienced losses: travel agents (4.6 per cent) airlines (4.1 per cent) and public transport (2.9 per cent).

Concerns over rising travel costs and anxieties about potential disruptions were largely cited as the reason for cancelling plans, while an additional 11 per cent specifically cited ongoing conflict in the Middle East as their reason for postponing. The rising costs of airline fares, accommodation and

Olive oil decline

even leisure activities mean holidays are a big investment, especially for families. NimbleFins estimate the average cost of a nine-night holiday to be £1,389 per person, while the average cost for a family of four totals £3,891. However, fuel shortages are expected to raise the cost of transportation further. Consequently, many are choosing to stay closer to

THE 2025/2026 olive oil season has come to an end, and the final yield totalled approximately 1.29 million tons, 9 per cent less than the 2024/2025 production.

Industry groups such as Cooperativas Agro-Alimentarias indicate that output was also about 10 per cent below initial forecasts, reflecting a challenging year for producers. The national decline is best represented in Andalucia, the largest olive-producing area, which fell short by 950,000 tons.

Inclement weather in olive-growing regions not only delayed the harvest, but also damaged the produce, reducing supply.

Fortunately, strong olive oil sales continue, reaching 142,530 tons in March, 9,670 more than in February, confirming a steady consumption trend. Although supply remains tight, it is still sufficient to

home, swapping their week in the sun for a staycation. During the Easter break, spending on hotels in the UK increased by 1.2 per cent. Meanwhile other families are holding off on booking a trip at all as they anticipate the cost of living crisis to worsen, instead saving money for a rainy day that is expected to arrive sooner rather than later.

meet demand.

The latest data sets the price of extra virgin oil at €4.27 per kilo, virgin olive oil at €3.52 and lampante olive oil at €3.14.

Nuclear deal Sustainable summer

THIS summer, British households could be encouraged to use more power in an effort to balance the grid when there is an excess of wind or solar energy. Britain recently set a solar-power record twice in 48 hours, when solar farms generated 14.1GW, beating the previous high of 14GW. With energy bills forecast to reach £2,000 a year from July, the abundance of renewable energy supplies could be a big help for households

ROLLS ROYCE has received £599 million from the National Wealth Fund to help develop the UK’s first mini-nuclear reactors. The engineering firm, in collaboration with Great British Energy - Nuclear, will design three small modular reactors (SMR). Unlike traditional nuclear power stations, SMRs are factory-built in modules and assembled on site, with the aim of reducing construction time and costs.

Once operational, the project is expected to benefit energy prices and bolster Britain’s sovereignty, reducing dependence on external fossil fuel markets. Rachel Reeves claims the project will generate upwards of 3,000 jobs during construction and across the supply chain.

THE Irish government has agreed to a €500 million support package to help those struggling with rising energy costs. The agreement followed days of widespread protests that caused major disruptions to fuel supplies, blocked road networks and severe delays in Dublin City Centre.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin is implementing several temporary measures to help fight against surging prices which includes reducing excise duty on petrol and diesel until July, postponing carbon tax increase, and launching subsidy schemes. The package is designed to provide immediate relief while establishing fuel distribution networks and easing public pressure following the protests.

STATE spending in Spain rose from roughly €460 billion in 2019 to over €700 billion, an increase above 50 per cent, while tax revenues grew from €212 billion to €320 billion, around 51 per cent. Despite record income, expenditure expanded faster, widening deficits and increasing reliance on borrowing.

Credit rating rise

Foreign buyers

ACCORDING to a report by the General Council of Notaries, foreigners made up 18.4 per cent of home purchases in 2025.

Compared to 2024, there has been a 4.4 per cent drop in homes purchased by this demographic, largely due to a decline in sales by non-residents, down 15.1 per cent on 2024’s figures. Despite buying less, on average, foreign buyers pay more, with Moroccans the biggest buyers among foreign residents.

ANDALUCIA’S credit rating has been upgraded from an A- to an A by rating agency S&P. Andalucia’s rating is now on par with Madrid and one below the Spanish treasury. The community is lauded for its ability to cover financing needs without accruing state debt.

fee

RENOWNED for its exclusivity, Coutts is raising its minimum entry fee from £1 million to £3 million. The bank is determined to maintain its prestige, handling royal accounts, including the King’s, rather than lower-level millionaires. This is the first increase since 2011, when the minimum grew from £500,000.

LONDON - FTSE 100

3I Group 2.844,50 2.883,00 2.841,00 93,8K

Admiral Group 3.394,0 3.403,0 3.381,0 29,66K

Airtel Africa 353,40 356,20 352,60 184,18K

Anglo American 3.638,0 3.667,0 3.626,0 264,24K

Antofagasta 3.766,50 3.874,50 3.762,00 107,4K

Associated British Foods 1.866,5 1.887,0 1.861,0 40,38K

AstraZeneca 14.980,0 15.108,0 14.958,0 73,17K

Auto Trader Group Plc 512,40 520,47 512,40 248,2K

Aviva 637,20 641,10 636,70 387,84K

B M European Value Retail 177,00 179,50 176,70 390,19K

BAE Systems

2.243,00 2.251,00 2.234,50 323,31K

Barclays 442,20 447,47 441,35 2,99M

Barratt Redrow 269,90 273,50 269,60 653,24K

Beazley 1.274,50 1.274,50 1.273,50 72,22K

Berkeley 3.510,0 3.550,0 3.502,0 15,89K

BP 557,90 562,00 553,90 4,67M

British American Tobacco 4.220,0 4.227,0 4.172,0 180,27K

BT Group 218,65 220,65 218,30 2,24M

Bunzl 2.363,0 2.367,0 2.347,0 49,83K

Centrica 201,00 201,60 198,50 1,07M

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.391,0 4.421,0 4.379,0 28,21K

Compass 28,12 28,43 28,08 110,84K

ConvaTec Group 237,20 240,20 236,80 352,06K

Croda Intl 3.030,0 3.047,0 3.028,0 12,41K DCC 5.255,0 5.295,0 5.250,0 15,38K Diageo 1.507,6 1.510,8 1.504,0 705,92K Diploma 6.881,00 6.920,00 6.862,07 21,23K

379,75 381,40 375,10 1,94M

615,40 623,40 611,60 168,16K

2.822,0 2.849,5 2.821,0 149,78K

2,46K

680,50 704,50 677,00 42,39K

551,50 551,90 547,65 4,1M

BUSINESS EXTRA

Festival failure

FOLLOWING the cancellation of its 2026 edition, Wireless Festival is estimated to lose £30 million in potential earnings. This due to the festival’s headline act, Kanye West, being denied entry to the UK for past anti-semitic remarks. Prior to the cancellation, several major sponsors withdrew their support, including Pepsi, due to West’s controversial reputation.

AI washing

THE tech industry is facing a redundancy crisis. As of January 1, there has been 78,557 layoffs. 47.9 per cent are attributed to lower need for human labour as AI takes over the workload. Although some industry experts label this ‘AI washing’ - blaming AI for layoffs that would have happened regardless.

AMAZON is shooting for the stars with the announcement of its latest acquisition: Globalstar, a mobile satellite operator.

This deal, worth approximately €10.5 billion, will add two dozen satellites to Amazon’s fledgling fleet. Global shareholders will receive either a cash payment of €75 or 0.3210 common shares of Amazon for each share of Globalstar they own.

The race to conquer the satellite-based connectivity market is heating up as tech companies invest billions into the sector. A global satellite network would offer customers Direct-to-Devi-

Satellite race

The wealthy win

THE day after a ceasefire between the United States and Iran was agreed to, the richest people in the world earned €245 billion.

This represents one of the largest daily increases, second to when US President Donald Trump declared a 90-day pause on tariffs when the wealthy pocketed €280 billion.

Following the ceasefire, the S&P 500 rose 2.5 per cent as traders anticipated the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of trade. Mark Zuckerberg earned the most (€12 billion) when Meta stock rose 6.5 per cent.

In 2026, the richest billionaires have lost €33 billion, leaving them with a collective fortune of around €10 trillion.

ce connections, removing the need for ground-based cell towers.

Current company projections anticipate the deployment of 3,200 Amazon Leo satellites into low orbit by 2029. The company will also launch its own satellite internet services in the second half of 2026.

In 2024, Apple invested around €1.27 billion into Globalstar, which in turn powered key Apple features, including its ‘emergency SOS’ notification alerts. Following Amazon’s acquisition, Amazon and Apple have signed an agreement to continue powering satellite-based safety features.

Amazon’s acquisition of Globalstar marks one small step to competing against Elon Musk’s space firm, Starlink, which is currently 10,000 satellites strong and serves more than nine million users around the world.

DISNEY is eliminating around 1,000 jobs in almost every branch of the Disney franchise. Marvel Studios will be hit especially hard with award-winning creative teams gutted. Disney’s last round of layoffs occurred in 2023, when the company cut 7,000 jobs to save €4.6 billion.

Barratt downsizes

BARRATT REDROW, Britain’s largest housebuilder, is scaling back land purchases due to current geopolitical events. The company is reducing land purchases to a maximum of 9,000 plots, and expects to spend between £700 and £900 million. This move threatens Labour’s promise of building 1.5 million new homes over five years.

The Boys

OVER four seasons The Boys has flipped the narrative of superheroes as pillars for justice completely on its head, making its super-powered protagonists morally grey at best, megalomaniacs at worst. The Boy’s doesn’t pretend to be a fantasy, instead it acts as a mirror, offering a depressingly accurate depiction of real-world problems.

Now airing its fifth and final season, the superhero satire promises fans hilarious one-liners, brutal violence and an epic conclusion.

NETFLIX is curating an excellent collection of true crime documentaries. It’s newest dives into the hair-raising world of a Mormon fundamentalist cult. Cult expert Christine Marie embeds herself within the pious community, offering the world an insight, and those trapped within a lifeline out. Serving as a sequel of sorts to Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey, the four-part documen-

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Costa del Sol Tivoli talk continues

SIX years after Tivoli World closed its gates, excitement for the beloved Benalmadena theme park remains potent. Shuttered in 2020 following financial disputes, the site’s future has been a constant topic of local debate. Now, fresh interest is growing online as plans for a 2028 revival gather pace.

On October 15, 2025, Benalmadena Town Hall confirmed that owners had submitted essential technical documentation to begin the site’s transformation. Mayor Juan Antonio Lara stated the project is progressing on schedule. The ambitious €100 million to €200 million proposal features a modernised theme park alongside two hotels and a commercial centre with the site expected to create 1,000 new jobs.

On social media, fans have shared fond memories of the park as a childhood staple, with many celebrating its return. However, there are also some concerns on practical impacts.

Axarquia

Umbrellas of Torrox return

THE iconic canopy of colourful umbrellas has returned to Torrox’s Plaza de la Constitución as extensive remodelling of the central square enters its final phase. Residents and holidaymakers now have access to the refreshed outdoor space, which serves as a world-renowned symbol of the Malaga coast.

The installation provides essential shade for the approaching summer, allowing families to enjoy the historic centre in comfort. Shaded seating encourages people to linger, making the plaza a more practical space for socialising and relaxation.

This revitalised environment has already led to increased foot traffic, providing a welcome boost to nearby shops and hospitality venues.

Other than its practical use, the display is a major draw for tourism. Images of the bright canopies have spread rapidly across social media, with visitors sharing photographs that promote Torrox as an appealing destination to a global audience.

Mallorca

Race spirit wins

THE half-marathon on Saturday April 18 delivered an unforgettable evening of sport and community spirit, with runners setting off at 5.30pm under a blazing sun. Despite the challenging heat, the atmosphere at the start line was electric, lifted by the infectious energy of Bloco Ayan drummers, whose rhythms set the tone for what would become a truly memorable event.

The conditions tested even the most seasoned runners, but support along the route was exceptional. Hundreds of volunteers played a crucial role, handing out water, electrolytes and bananas throughout the course, helping participants stay hydrated and energised. Their enthusiasm and encouragement became a defining feature of the race, reflecting a strong sense of community.

Organisation by the local council was seamless, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for both runners and spectators. From logistics to safety, every detail appeared carefully considered, allowing the focus to remain on the race itself.

Costa Blanca South Alcohol-free fun

ALICANTE’S San Juan beach recently celebrated its Santa Faz 0.0, or Holy Face 0.0, event, with leisure activities for young people in the area. The event aimed to promote alcohol-free beach fun among youths in Alicante during one of the most important celebrations of the year, complete with sports activities, technology exhibitions, games and prizes.

The event, focusing on a concept of ‘responsible leisure’, was a day that coincided with the traditional Santa Faz Pilgrimage, one of the largest pilgrimage celebrations in Spain and which attracts thousands of people per year.

Activities available at the Holy Face 0.0 event included virtual reality simulators, a 360º photo opportunity with props, leisure and sports activities on the beach (including beach tennis, beach football, and pétanque), children’s workshops with instructors, and live music with a speaker, all while respecting the no-alcohol rule.

Almeria

Best burger crowned

HUNDREDS of hungry locals overtook the Albox Fair Grounds at the weekend, all looking to get a taste of the best burger in Almanzora Valley. Each night, as the sun set, the grounds came to life. Bright neon signs and the tantalising smell of sizzling meat and melted cheese lured festival goers deeper into the maze of food-trucks and picnic benches.

A relaxed, convivial atmosphere defined all four days of the festival as friends and family sipped ice-cold beers, tucked into juicy burgers and enjoyed the live-music sets.

The novelty burgers were certainly popular with the crowd. Both the dark black bun of La Negra and the shocking bright blue of The Brutal Blue caught customers’ attention, earning them second and third place respectively.

However, neither lived up to the intense heat and unadulterated flavour of D2 Street Bar’s Tijuana Tica which was ultimately crowned the best burger in Almanzora Valley.

Costa Blanca North Local pride

BENITACHELL has wrapped up its 2026 Mitjafava Fest with energy, atmosphere and a clear impact on the town itself - proving this is far more than a traditional food festival.

Over several days, the streets filled with visitors, bringing a welcome surge for local businesses. Restaurants, bars and producers all benefited, particularly during the lively Tapifava event, where crowds moved from venue to venue sampling creative dishes built around the town’s signature ingredient, the ‘fava poblera’.

Many establishments reported full tables and sold-out menus, highlighting the festival’s growing pull.

But the real story lies in what it’s doing for the area long-term. By placing the fava poblera at centre stage, Benitachell is actively protecting its agricultural heritage while giving it a modern platform. Farmers, chefs and artisans are brought together, turning a humble crop into a source of pride, visibility and income.

Does your pet need a personal pet-sitter playmate?

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Litter tray training

POTTY training a cat tends to be much easier than potty training a dog, or even a toddler. Cats naturally seek out a clean place to relieve themselves so the habit of using a litter tray can be established relatively quickly.

Start by choosing the right litter tray. It should slope to one side for easy-access. Place it somewhere quiet and easy to get to, away from food and water. Once you bring a kitten home, introduce them to the tray as soon as they arrive, gently placing them inside so they can explore and become familiar.

From there, simply encourage use at key moments during the day, typically after meals, naps or playtime, to help build a routine. Use positive reinforcement to further cement the behaviour, prai-

sing them or offering small treats whenever they use the tray correctly.

The key responsibility is keeping the tray clean.

Praise or punish?

THERE are so many ways to go about training a pet, but two main approaches are often the most debated: positive reinforcement or punishment. While both aim to shape behaviour, their effectiveness and impact are very different.

Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding good behaviour, rather than scolding the bad. The idea is simple: animals repeat behaviours associated with pleasant outcomes. This may simply look like a ‘good boy’ or some other form of gentle affection, or be emphasised through giving treats and toys. Over time, this builds trust,

cognise that bad behaviour has negative consequences, like a firm voice, isolation, maybe even a gentle tap of admonishment. While this may stop behaviour in the short term, it creates fear and confusion, leading to a pet acting out more. Pets don’t have the capacity of fully understanding what they did wrong, which can lead to stress and anxiety.

Most modern trainers agree that positive reinforcement is more effective, as it creates a calm and supportive learning environment. With time, positive reinforcement helps raise happy, confident family-pets.

Scoop waste daily and change litter regularly. Cats prefer a fresh, clean environment. If they’re not getting that from their litter tray, they’ll find somewhere else to do their business.

It’s important to remember that accidents will happen. When this happens, avoid punishment, simply clean the area thoroughly.

Like with any potty-training endeavour, consistency is key. With a little routine and gentle guidance, your cat will be reliably using the litter tray in no time.

Litter tray training is easy.

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CrossFit event draws crowds

LOS ALCAZARES recently hosted a major CrossFit competition, bringing together around 360 athletes and drawing large crowds to the Pabellón 13 de Octubre. The Flamingo Invitational, organised by Flamingo CrossFit Roseus, has strengthened its position as a key date in the sporting calendar.

The event followed a two-stage format. Athletes first took part in an online qualifying round between September 15 and December 15, submitting videos of completed challenges to secure a place in the final. The in-person stage took place on April 11 and 12, featuring six tests of fitness. A 3km race opened the programme, with the remaining events held inside the venue, which was

transformed for the competition.

Participants competed in mixed pairs and teams of three across scaled, intermediate and RX levels, creating eight categories in total.

Councillor for Sports Jesús Ramón Alcaraz said the event once again demonstrated the town’s ability to host large-scale competitions, attracting visitors and boosting activity across local facilities.

Event organiser Driss Boughazzal described the weekend as exceeding expectations, citing strong attendance and a high standard among competitors.

He also praised the atmosphere and the intensity of the finals, where both individual performance and teamwork stood out.

Young team triumphs

MURCIA City Council has paid tribute to Real Murcia B Femenino after the team won the youth category of the International Torrevieja Cup, beating Elche CF 2-1 in the final.

The recognition was made through the city’s Sports Department, led by councillor Miguel Ángel Noguera, following an outstanding tournament run by the Real Murcia reserve side.

Managed by Pedro León, the team secured the title with a flawless record, winning every

match in the competition. Their performances stood out for their quality, determination and maturity, especially as they competed in the under-19 category despite having an average age of just 14.

Noguera praised the rapid rise of women’s sport in Murcia, pointing in particular to the increasing popularity of girls’ football among younger players.

He said that more girls are choosing to take up football, describing it as a positive sign of changing

attitudes towards sport and equality. He added that the local authority sees this growing participation as a source of pride and intends to continue supporting equal opportunities across all sporting disciplines.

Murcia’s Sports Department also reaffirmed its backing for women’s football and grassroots development, stressing the importance of teaching values such as teamwork, honesty, respect and education alongside athletic progress.