Costa de Almeria 22 – 28 January 2026 Issue 2116

Carnival countdown

Albox gears up for a spectacular 2026 Carnival celebration

THE highly anticipated return of Albox’s 2026 Carnival has finally been confirmed. Taking place Saturday, February 7, the big day will commence at 6.00pm with a parade that will depart from Plaza San Francisco, bringing the streets of Albox to life as the Carnival spirit takes over.

Costumed revellers will take over the town, passing through the historic streets, spreading an infectious joy and filling the whole town with music you can’t help but dance to. The party really begins when it reaches the Water and Health Centre. Those in attendance are motivated to dance and celebrate the Carnival.

Dressing up for the occasion is also encouraged. In fact, it’s set to be rewarded as the Carnival is holding a group and troupe

costume contest. Organisers welcome the wildest costumes that contestants can dream up. To register for the competition, scan the QR code on the Carnival’s official poster.

The announcement generated a buzz of an -

ticipation throughout town as residents eagerly await what has come to be known as the most exciting event on Albox’s calendar.

For years, the Albox Carnival has been a cornerstone event that pro -

motes imagination and inclusion above all else.

Albox Town Council invites everyone, from the youngest to the oldest of local residents, plus anyone else passing through, to grab their dancing shoes and get involved.

Hip-Hop triumphs

LARGE crowds of young people and hip-hop enthusiasts gathered on Saturday, January 17, blending their passion for urban culture with community bonding as the Hip Hop Street Vícar 2026 celebration went o without a hitch.

Three main events dened the day. First the ‘King of the Court’ 3x3 Basketball Championship allowed competitors to shoot for the stars as awards were given to the top scorers. In the women’s 3x3 competition, ‘Las Retiradas’ were victorious, while ‘Diabético+3’ won in the men’s.

The BMX Freestyle ‘Dirtbike’ championship was an exciting endeavour. Both the children’s competition and the professional battle drew a crowd of excited spectators.

It wasn’t all about sports, however, as urban art was spotlighted. The gra ti exhibition was a

huge draw for the event. Six artists worked tirelessly for days to create their pieces for the exhibition which will become part of the municipality’s urban art scene.

The verbal sparring of the Hip Hop Street Battle Vol. IV thrilled the crowd, as did the ‘Duel in the Desert’ breakdance shop. Additionally, younger-children explored ho-

bbies such as skateboarding, poetry and drawing through the parallel programme, Hip Hop Street Vicar ‘mini’.

The celebration ran well into the night with standout performances from Erick Hervé, the Spanish-Argentine rapper So a Gabanna, and Piezas & Jayder who are currently on tour for their album ‘Dual’.

A winning moment

PAWS-PATAS has announced the rst winner of its PAWS-SOME CLUB draw. President Babs presented €250 in dining vouchers to Eric Wintersgill.

Members of the club choose the name of a cat or dog to represent them. Eric selected Leon, a cat who came into the charity’s care with his siblings after their owner died. Her nal wish was that her cats be looked after. Her husband honoured that promise until his health declined, when all three were taken into the shelter.

Leon was a friendly cat who loved human company. He has since been rehomed in the Netherlands.

Eric chose his €250 prize in vouchers from Badgers, Bombay Tacos, La Parata and San Pedro Bar.

A few places will become available in the PAWS-SOME CLUB after the February draw. The club is limited to 100 members and o ers the chance to win €250 in vouchers for a €15 contribution covering three draws. Enqui-

ries: events@paws-patas.org.

The charity is also preparing a fundraising event with Eleos on January 30 at Delfos del Faz from 4pm, with live music, stalls, ra es and snacks, and the chance to meet kittens and dogs. Entry is free.

A Valentine-themed Bingo Lunch Club follows on February 5 at The Snug, Mojacar Playa, from 1.30pm. Tickets cost €10, including lunch and two games of bingo, with prizes including a €200 furniture store voucher.

ETIAS delayed

UK VISITORS CAN TRAVEL AS NORMAL FOR NOW

UK travellers heading to Spain in 2026 can relax. The European Union has confirmed that ETIAS, the new travel authorisation system for visa-free visitors, will not be mandatory until at least spring 2027. The update means there will be no change to entry requirements for Spain or the wider Schengen area throughout the year. British tourists can continue travelling as they do now, using only a valid passport. ETIAS was designed to introduce extra pre-travel checks for non-EU visitors, similar to the US ESTA system. Once in force, travellers from the UK, US, Canada and Australia will need to complete an online application, pay a €20 fee, and receive authorisation before entering the Schengen zone. The permit will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires and will cover multiple trips. EU citizens are unaffected.

The EU confirmed ETIAS will begin rolling out in the final months of 2026, followed by a six-month transition, making April 2027 the earliest compulsory start. The delay is linked to wider border modernisation, including Spain’s new Entry/ Exit System (EES), which registers fingerprints and facial images of non-EU travellers and is expected to be fully deployed by April 2026.

Tourism authorities and airport operators welcomed the delay, citing the need for staff training and technology stabilisation to avoid congestion. Until then, UK visitors can travel to Spain in 2026 as before, with no permits, forms or extra fees. Read the full article at: https://euroweeklynews. com/2026/01/13/etias-delayed-until-2027-for-uk-trave llers/

Healthcare reality check

PUBLIC healthcare access in Spain is widely assumed to arrive automatically with time and permanent residence, but new January 2026 guidance from Citizens Advice Bureau Spain (CAB Spain) challenges this. Legally, Spain operates a residence-based healthcare system under Royal Decree-Law 7/2018, meaning entitlement depends on being legally and habitually resident, not on nationality or social security contributions. In practice, access is filtered by the Social Security authority, the INSS, whose interpretations and administrative checks can produce inconsistent outcomes. Two residents with similar profiles may receive different decisions depending on regional offices, documentation or local rule application. This gap between law and reality explains why entitlement often feels unpredictable for expatriates.

Confusion is amplified by the so-called ‘five-year rule’. Administrative guidance suggests EU, EEA and UK nationals gain healthcare rights automatically after five years, but this is not guaranteed. Non-EU nationals face stricter checks, and even permanent residents can be refused if their records fail INSS requirements. CAB Spain warns this risks indirectly linking entitlement to nationality rather than residence. Residents without employment, pensions or exportable healthcare can apply directly for assessment via INSS, though approval is discretionary. Family members may qualify if legally resident, financially dependent and registered. Emergency care, pregnancy care and minors’ healthcare remain protected. Digital services now allow residents to check entitlement and certificates, but many retain private insurance due to delays and regional variation. CAB Spain advises proactive verification to secure coverage. Read the full article at: https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/01/10/living-in-spain-why-your-public-heal thcare-cover-may-not-be-what-you-think-in-2026/

Holiday rights protected

Days can be taken later

SPANISH labour law confirms that workers who fall ill during annual leave do not lose their right to holiday time and can reclaim the affected days. The protection is set out in Article 38 of the Estatuto de los Trabajadores, which clearly separates holiday entitlement from periods of certified sickness. The rule applies whether illness begins before a scheduled holiday or during the holiday itself. When an employee enters temporary incapacity, those days no longer count as holiday and must be taken later once the worker has recovered. Importantly, recovered leave can be used after the end of the calendar year in which it was accrued, with workers having up to 18 months to take it.

To reclaim lost holiday days, employees must notify their employer and provide an official medical certificate. Without certified sick leave, the period continues to count as holiday, even if the worker was unwell.

Employers are legally required to allow rescheduling, although the timing must be agreed.

The rule applies equally to expats working in Spain, regardless of nationality, provided they are employed under Spanish law and registered with social security. Authorities note that disputes usually arise from missing documentation rather than legal ambiguity.

Courts have consistently upheld the principle that illness does not cancel the right to rest.

euroweeklynews.com

Life-saving appeal

AN urgent appeal has been made to find a bone marrow donor for fouryear-old, Francisca. The young girl, originally from Almeria, is currently hospitalised in Malaga, where she and her family await news of a compatible match.

Francisca’s school, the Divina Infantita School in Almeria, has issued a statement asking for support: “Our student Francisca needs a compatible bone marrow donor to continue her treatment. Spreading this message

is essential to increase the chances of finding a donor.”

The first step to becoming a potential donor is by going to an authorised blood donation centre and undergoing a blood draw, which will be added into the REMO registry. Donors must be between 18 and 40 years old to be eligible to donate.

Francisca’s family describe her as a bright, lively girl. She loves dancing, singing, playing with her friends and dressing up as her favourite princess, earning her the affectionate title ‘Princess Francisca’.

Her family took to social media to ask for the public to help in whatever way they can. “A spell put

all of this on hold, but we are sure that with your voluntary and altruistic help, she will find her bone marrow donor prin-

ce who will break this curse. Meanwhile, she waits, dreaming of her new life at Malaga’s Mother and Child hospital.”

Sacred revival

DEVOTION to Saint Anthony, patron saint of animals, returned to the streets of Albox on Saturday, January 17 as many gathered to revive an old local tradition.

This religious resurgence was led by Antonio Jesús María Saldaña, rector of the Sanctuary of Saliente. Saldaña took charge of five new parishes in September 2025, including that of Santa Maria de Albox, home of the Saint Anthony figure.

Saint Anthony’s image was expertly restored by Joaquin Gilabert Lopez especially for the celebrations, where it was then placed on a platform and carried through

the town’s historic centre.

Traditionally, residents would each play a part in raising a piglet during the months leading up to the festival, at which point it could be won through a town-wide popular raffle. The 2026 edi-

tion somewhat stuck to this tradition but adapted it for modern day. In place of a live piglet, a handmade plush pig was crafted by the PIMIMA Home Decor Group and raffled off instead.

Following the raffle and the procession, attendees convened at the Plaza Mayor, where the procession both started and finished, to enjoy the ‘Olla de San Antón’, a meal that puts pork products centre stage.

More than a community gathering, the Saint Anthony festivities doubled as a fundraising event, with donations going to rehabilitate the Church of Santa Maria.

Pro training

MOJACAR has been transformed into the training base for Team Polti VisitMalta, a pro cycling team, as they prepare for the first races of the upcoming season.

Mojacar to Tanzania

This is the first time the team have set up their training camp in Mojacar. The Almeria coast provides ideal training conditions, as the sunny but moderate weather makes the rigorous rides enjoyable for riders and staff alike.

Fran Contador, General Manager of Team Polti VisitMalta spoke on their current training strategies, saying: “We’re working in a very targeted way for the start of competition and we’re feeling extremely positive. The environment we’re in is a big help, from the facilities to the ideal climate and the excellent roads of the Almería area. We’re happy to be here and to see how the squad is growing.”

The team is staying at the Marina Playa Hotel, where they are able to fully recover between training sessions.

MOJACAR and Tanzania are almost 10,000 miles apart. Despite the distance, one Mojacar resident is leading a fundraising campaign to support the women of Tanzania, combining practical aid with community spirit.

Jackie Miles Kirby has been collecting bras to donate to women in Tanzania. She hopes the donation, while practical, will help women stand taller and walk through life with confidence.

Jackie called on her community, and her community answered with a heart-warming enthusiasm. Bras arrived by the armful, filling boxes and bags as word (and bras) passed through local groups and community get-togethers.

With the help of her loyal community, Jackie has filled four large suitcases. The next step is getting the donated bras to Tanzania. While Jackie will travel with some, the majority will need to be sent ahead of time by post. Each box will cost between €15 to €20 to safely ship through the local post office.

To cover the costs, Jackie has set up a fundraising page: https://rb.gy/vfcmoo. The goal is to raise €700 and impressively, she is over halfway there. At present, €413 has already been raised through small individual donations, giving weight to the idea that the small actions of individuals can make a big difference.

Almeria airport name change

IF Almeria wishes to progress with renaming the El Alquián aerodrome as ‘Antonio de Torres’, as agreed upon in February 2020, the Almeria City Council will have to sign an agreement with Aena and cover the costs.

The government responded to questions surrounding renaming procedure, noting that name changes for airports within the Aena network of general interest are approved ‘upon request by an interested party’. Such interested parties must demonstrate a legitimate interest in the name change or be acting on behalf of the government of Spain itself.

Prior to the formal request, the entity submitting the proposal, in this case the Almeria City Council, must commit to ‘as-

suming the cost that said modification entails’ and also come to an agreement with Aena. Only then can an official application be submitted.

Renaming an airport is no small decision. The impact of renaming such key infrastructure can have massive consequences on the public and other institutions. For that reason, established procedure sees that those who are ‘most directly affected’ will have the chance to be heard, along with representatives of the person being honoured with the name change. With the name change, Almeria hope to pay tribute to master guitar maker Antonio de Torres, whose legacy is strongly tied to the neighbourhood next to the airfield.

Vital Alzheimer‘s

HEALTHCARE professionals from Almeria’s own Torrecárdenas University Hospital are dedicating their medical knowledge to the vital search for a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

According to data from I+Salud Andalucia, 31 research projects and 61 clinical studies are currently being conducted in Andalucia, all aimed at finding a way to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Healthcare professionals across the region are collaborating, combining their collective knowledge in the hopes of making medical breakthroughs.

research

Almeria participate in crucial Alzheimer’s research.

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. In Andalucia alone, more than 100,000 people are affected. Not to mention the enormous impact the disease has on family members and loved ones.

Currently, no effective drug treatment exists. As the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s continues to rise, the need for medical research studies has never been greater.

Andalucia’s current research lies in identifying biomarkers to early diagnosis, studying pre-pathological and pre-symptomatic phases. Both of these avenues serve as a way to understand the progression of the disease, and are useful in preclinical studies as a way to develop potential drugs.

Andalucia and the participating hospitals, such as Almeria’s Torrecárdenas University Hospital, investment of time and funds shows their strong commitment to medical advancement in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

Huercal-Overa Holy Week

HUERCAL-OVE -

RA has unveiled the official poster for its 2026 Holy Week celebrations, with the Hermandad de la Borriquita taking centre stage in a year of exceptional significance for the town. The presentation marked the start of the countdown to one of the municipality’s most important religious events.

The artwork, created by local designer Elías González, depicts the Lord of the Holy Entry into Jerusalem. According to the artist, the image seeks to convey silence, reflection and faith through a subtle use of light, offering a calm yet powerful portrayal of Christ on the Borriquita.

The event was attended by Mayor Domingo Fernández, Culture and Tourism councillor Juani Egea, parish priest Francisco Jerónimo Ruiz, and Jonathan González, Brother Mayor of the Borriquita brotherhood. Councillor Egea highlighted the council’s ongoing work with local brotherhoods to ensure Holy Week is promoted throu -

ghout the year, including future museum projects dedicated to preserving religious heritage.

Mayor Fernández praised the young artist’s work and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting local confraternities. Meanwhile, Jonathan González described it as an honour for the brotherhood to feature on the poster in a year marked by the forthcoming beatification of the Cura Valera, scheduled for February 7, 2026.

The poster will be promoted at FITUR in Madrid, showcasing Huercal-Overa’s unique Holy Week to an international audience.

Brilliant bowls final

WINTER sunshine provided a fitting backdrop on Sunday, January 18, as a crowd gathered at Camping Los Gallardos to watch the final of the Almería Lawn Bowls Club Handicap Singles Competition. The eagerly anticipated contest delivered on all fronts, with John Fitzgerald narrowly defeating Colin Polloxfen in a tense and evenly matched encounter.

With only a handful of points separating the finalists throughout, the match remained finely balanced

until the closing stages. Fitzgerald eventually edged ahead to secure the title, which was presented immediately after the conclusion of play.

The competition had begun the previous Thursday and, as a handicap event, was designed to level the playing field between experienced bowlers and relative newcomers. The format succeeded in producing several surprise results, with some senior players eliminated early by less experienced opponents. Consistent good

weather across the week contributed to a high standard of play and a number of close finishes. Ultimately, experience prevailed, with two of the club’s most established bowlers reaching the final. Almeria Lawn Bowling Club is located at the Camping Los Gallardos complex, just outside the village of Los Gallardos. The club prides itself on being friendly and welcoming, and anyone interested is invited to visit on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday mornings at 9.30am.

Festival of Nations

HUERCAL-OVERA’S Nave Po livalente was transformed into a vibrant showcase of world cultures recently as the Festival of NationsMigrant Day brought together residents and visitors alike. The multicultural celebration, which far exceeded attendance expectations, highlighted the traditions and talents of people from 18 different countries.

The event opened with a colourful procession of flags and traditional dress, before moving on to a packed programme of performances. Groups from Ecuador, Bolivia, Bulgaria and Honduras took to the floor with energetic dance displays, while local talent from the Cristina Parra Dance School and a line dancing ensemble entertained the crowd.

A major draw was the international food tasting area, where attendees sampled an array of authentic dishes from around the globe. A charity refreshment stall run by Asociación Huercal-Overa Integra added a community spirit to the feast.

Mayor Domingo Fernández praised the turnout and the sense of unity fostered by the event, thanking participants and groups for sharing their customs. Councillor for Social Policy and Immigration, Ana Martínez, emphasised the human stories behind the music and food, saying the festival celebrated integration and strengthened cultural bonds across the municipality.

Countries represented included Spain, the UK, Ukraine, Morocco, Senegal, several Latin American nations and more.

TK Maxx comes to Spain

BRITISH o -price retailer

TK Maxx is preparing to launch its rst Spanish store this spring, marking a major step in the company’s European expansion.

The debut outlet will open in Barcelona’s Diagonal Mar shopping centre, a promi-

nent location close to the seafront and well connected to public transport. Spain has until now been absent from TK Maxx’s European network, which includes established operations in the UK, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands.

Preparations for the Barcelona store are well underway, with interior t-out, merchandising, and sta ng already in progress. The opening is timed to coincide with the spring tourist season, when footfall in the city and shopping centres is at its peak, suggesting a strategic approach aimed at both local consumers and visiting shoppers.

Retail analysts have noted that the choice of Diagonal Mar aligns with TK Maxx’s broader European strategy of launching in high-tra c urban locations to maximise visibility and customer engagement.

TK Maxx is known for its o -price retail model, o ering branded clothing, footwear, accessories, and homeware at discounted prices. Stock is sourced from a wide variety of international brands and rotates regularly, encouraging repeat visits. The retailer has built a reputation for delivering bargains on quality items, and its entry into Spain is expected to attract signi cant attention.

Butane price rises

TUESDAY, January 20 saw a modest increase in the cost of the traditional orange butane cylinder for Spanish households.

The maximum retail price for canisters between eight and 20kg has been set at €15.58, up 0.7 per cent from the previous revision in November. The change, published in the O cial State Gazette, will a ect millions of families, especially in rural areas and urban zones without access to the natural gas network.

The Ministry of Energy attributes the rise to three main factors: a 5.1 per cent increase in freight costs, a 3.8 per cent rise in international raw material prices (propane and butane), and a slight 0.4 per cent depreciation of the euro against the dollar.

Packaged butane prices in Spain remain regulated by the government to shield consumers from sharp market swings.

The bimonthly formula takes account of international propane and

Spain tightens AI laws

SPAIN has approved a draft law aimed at tackling the misuse of artificial intelligence, as concern grows over deepfake images and the non-consensual use of people’s faces and voices online.

The proposed legislation, agreed by the cabinet this week, would tighten rules around consent for images, videos and audio - including content generated using AI - while strengthening protections for children and teenagers.

A deepfake is an image, video or audio clip created using artificial intelligence to convincingly imitate a real person. Authorities say the technology is increasingly being used to create fake sexual images, misleading content and unauthorised advertisements, often without the subject’s knowledge.

Under the draft law, 16 would become the mini-

Credit: Pexels @Karola G

Proposed law aims to protect children and teenagers.

mum age at which a person can legally consent to the use of their own image. The reuse of online photos or videos, as well as AI-generated voices or likenesses, would require explicit authorisation.

Justice Minister Félix Bolaños said sharing personal or family images on social media does not give others the right to use them elsewhere.

The reforms would also classify the use of AI-generated images or voices for commercial or advertising purposes without consent as illegitimate. Creative or satirical content involving public figures would remain allowed, provided it is clearly labelled as AI-generated.

The draft law will now enter a consultation phase before being sent to parliament for debate.

Spain’s friendliest cities

A NEW nationwide study suggests friendliness in Spain is more nuanced than its sunny reputation, with everyday kindness varying subtly from city to city. Based on responses from over 2,000 residents and expatriates, the survey measures respect, empathy, conflict handling and how welcoming cities feel to newcomers, revealing small but meaningful differences in daily life.

Bilbao tops the ranking with a score of 72.53, surprising some who associate northern Spain with reserve. Respondents praise its calm, respectful social atmosphere, where help is offered without intrusion. Zaragoza follows closely on 72.34, noted for low drama and straightforward interactions, with disagreements quickly resolved.

Valladolid and Malaga share third place on 72.30, despite contrasting styles. Valladolid shows kindness through politeness and restraint, while Malaga’s warmth is more open, shaped by frequent interaction with tourists and newcomers.

Other top-10 cities include Palma de Mallorca, Sevilla, Vigo, Murcia, Madrid and Valencia, each offering a distinct version

of friendliness.

Lower-ranked cities include Cordoba, Las Palmas, Barcelona and Alicante, though the gap between first and last is under two points. Alicante reflects higher defensiveness in conflicts often linked to tourism pressure and housing stress, rather than outright unfriendliness, while Barcelona and Madrid are respectful but fast-paced, limiting emotional closeness. The study also finds people over 55 score highest for patience and empathy, and women report more welcoming behaviours. Overall, Spain is broadly friendly; the main difference lies in how kindness is expressed rather than its presence.

Telecom price hike

SPAIN’S three largest telecommunications providers, Movistar, Vodafone and Orange, have introduced tariff increases in the month of January, with average rises of around 4 per cent across many fibre, mobile and bundled service plans. The changes affect millions of customers using convergent packages that combine broadband, mobile services and television.

The companies attribute the increases to rising operational costs.

Movistar’s price adjustments take effect from mid January, with most customers paying approximately €3-€4 more per month. Orange has implemented some of the largest increases, with popular fibre and unlimited mobile packages rising by around €5-€6 monthly. Vodafone has also raised prices, typically by a few euros depending on the specific plan.

The companies attribute the increases to rising operational costs, including investment in fibre and 5G infrastructure, technology upgrades and higher fees for streaming and sports content rights. Movistar has highlighted increased charges from content partners, while Orange points to service enhancements and

broader platform integration as part of its updated pricing.

Consumer reactions have been mixed, with some accepting the increases as routine updates and others expressing concern amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Consumer organisations advise customers to review contracts carefully, noting that significant price changes can sometimes allow penalty-free cancellation or renegotiation.

Smaller operators such as Digi have confirmed they will not raise tariffs in 2026, offering lower-cost alternatives. Analysts suggest continued competition may limit further increases, although additional pricing reviews remain possible later in the year.

Ruling the skies

FOR the first time in years, flights between Spain and the United Kingdom have overtaken domestic routes as the busiest segment at Spanish airports. Data from Aena shows that, in the first 11 months of 2025, Spain-UK routes carried 45.27 million passengers, up 4 per cent year-on-year, while domestic flights recorded 45.19 million, showing little growth. British tourists remain Spain’s top inbound segment, with high per-passenger spending, partly due to VAT refunds.

Foreign low-cost airlines dominate the corridor. Ryanair transported 13.79 million passengers across more than 100 routes and plans further summer expansions, while easyJet carried 10 million across 129 routes. Most trips are tourism-related, often week-long stays for groups of two or more, though business travel remains significant in key hubs. UK package

holiday companies such as Jet2.com and TUI carried 9.85 million and 3.96 million passengers respectively, highlighting the enduring popularity of bundled travel.

Domestic flights are constrained by high-speed rail expansion, route reductions, and technical issues affecting some aircraft. Smaller carriers such as Binter, Volotea, and Vueling are expanding in the domestic market, with Binter seeing strong growth on regional routes. Spain-UK now represents the world’s largest air corridor by seat capacity, at 55.05 million seats. Airlines are adjusting schedules to meet fluctuating demand, with last-minute bookings and family travel influencing planning. The corridor’s leading position is expected to continue, with international connections increasingly shaping Spanish airport operations.

Most beautiful building

ASK most travellers to name Europe’s iconic architectural treasures, and they will cite the Sagrada Família, the Duomo in Florence, or the Alhambra in Granada. Yet tucked in the hills overlooking Barcelona lies a lesser-known masterpiece: Torre Bellesguard. Rarely photographed and quietly hidden from standard tourist routes, it receives far fewer visitors than Gaudí’s more famous works, despite its unique design, historical significance, and cultural resonance.

The site carries deep historical weight, once hosting the medieval residence of King Martin I of Aragon, the last monarch of the House of Barcelona. Gaudí transformed this ground into a building that blends medieval Catalan grandeur with modernist innovation. Unlike his more famous flowing, organic designs, Bellesguard features straight lines, sharp angles, and a commanding spire, reflec-

ting a Gothic revival sensibility infused with symbolic detail: mosaic fragments, star motifs, organic stone patterns, and a cross crowning the tower. Set among greenery and elevated above the city, the house offers panoramic views while maintaining privacy, shielded by cypress trees and residential streets. Approaching Bellesguard feels like stepping out of the bustling city and into a quiet, elevated

world. Inside, vaulted ceilings, hand-carved fixtures, geometric stained glass, and carefully controlled natural light reveal Gaudí’s meticulous craftsmanship, creating a home meant to be lived in yet admired. In a city celebrated for art, architecture, and design, Bellesguard stands apart as a personal and contemplative encounter with history and architectural mastery, quietly rewarding those who seek it.

2026 travel trends

SPAIN is set to bene t from predicted travel trends in 2026, according to newly released Airbnb data. The report shows how Gen Z travellers, solo adventurers and social media-driven habits are reshaping travel across Europe, with Spain emerging as a key destination for short breaks, wellness trips and food-led experiences.

Published on January 15, the analysis draws on global Airbnb search and booking data.

Airbnb identi es Gen Z travellers, roughly aged 18 to 30, as the main force behind

rapid growth in one- to twoday international getaways. Instead of long beach holidays, younger travellers are choosing fast-paced city breaks centred on culture, nightlife and food. Airbnb links this to TikTok-driven trends promoting day trips abroad, designed to make the most of limited paid time o . Spain’s dense transport network, availability of budget ights and walkable historic cities make it especially attractive for this style of travel.

Solo travel is also rising sharply worldwide, with Airbnb reporting triple-di-

git growth in searches for several European locations. In Spain, the Costa del Sol is highlighted as an emerging solo travel hotspot for 2026. Solo travellers are drawn to destinations o ering wellness-focused activities such as yoga and hiking, mild climates, and a slower pace of life. Airbnb also notes growing interest in outdoor experiences, reinforced by the ‘touch grass’ social media trend.

Event-led travel is another de ning feature, with 65 per cent of top searches linked to major global events.

Croqueta day

SPAIN recently celebrated International Day of the Croqueta , a celebration of one of Spain’s most cherished tapas.

While paella is often thought of as Spain’s national dish, it remains a regional speciality of Valencia. Across the country, the humble croqueta reigns supreme: crispy on the outside, luxuriously creamy within, and endlessly adaptable.

The croqueta is not originally Spanish. It originated in 17th-century France, where the term derives from ‘croquer’ (to crunch). Early versions, recorded in 1691, were simple fried balls of meat and herbs. By the 18th century, French chefs introduced béchamel sauce, and the modern luxurious form was popularised by Antonin Carême in 1817.

The dish reached Spain in the early 19th century during the Napoleonic occupation. Spaniards embraced it as economical ‘cuisine of leftovers’, transforming what was left into thick, creamy béchamel llings. By the 20th century, it had become an iconic tapa, with jamón ibérico emerging as the nation’s favou-

rite.

According to the 2025 Estudio Anual mo de Croquetas en Es- paña by croque tasricas.com, 72 per cent of consumers prefer jamón ibérico, far ahead of wild mushrooms (9 per cent), sh such as cod (6 per cent), and other varieties.

Yet Spanish creativity knows no limits. Alongside classics, bars o er daring specials: jet-black calamares en su tinta, chocolate or Oreo dessert versions, pistachio with jamón, chorizo with chocolate, and even snails or foie gras.

Spain’s heating divide

AROUND one in four homes in Spain still lacks a heating system, according to a new study by property portal idealista, revealing stark regional contrasts. The analysis, based on homes advertised for sale and rent in November, shows a country shaped by geography and climate, with coastal areas favouring cooler homes and inland regions prioritising warmth.

The Canary Islands top the list, with 89 per cent of homes in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 86 per cent in Las Palmas lacking heating. Southern mainland provinces show a similar pattern: Cadiz and Huelva at 54 per cent, Murcia and Almeria around 50 per cent.

Construction in these areas has historically focused on keeping homes cool, leaving residents to rely on portable heaters or extra blankets.

Best winter escape

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC has named Laguardia, a small fortified village in northern Spain, as the best place to visit in January, surpassing the usual big-city favourites.

By contrast, northern provinces are largely equipped for winter. In Soria, Salamanca and Navarre, only about 4 per cent of homes lack heating, with Segovia, Valladolid and La Rioja reporting similarly low figures. Provincial capitals such as Pamplona, Soria and Salamanca see just 2 per cent without heating.

Major cities also differ: 17 per cent of homes in Barcelona have no heating, while Madrid falls to around 5 per cent. Older coastal properties are especially likely to lack fixed systems. Rising energy costs and unpredictable winters mean Spain’s long-standing heating divide is increasingly significant.

Located in Rioja Alavesa between rolling vineyards and the Sierra de Cantabria, Laguardia sheds the crowds and reveals a quieter character in winter. Narrow cobbled streets wind through medieval gateways, with fragments of ancient walls still shaping daily life. Two churches dominate the skyline: Santa María de los Reyes, noted for its rare polychrome Gothic portal, and San Juan Bautista, which houses an impressive Baroque altarpiece.

Beneath the streets lies a network of more than 200 historic wine cellars, or calados. Cars are banned from the old town

to protect these tunnels, giving the centre a peaceful atmosphere. In winter, the cellars offer warmth and the scent of resting wine.

Archaeological finds, including Europe’s largest known Iron Age water reservoir, add another layer to the village’s long history.

Food and wine are central to life in Laguardia. January brings hearty stews, grilled meats and pintxos, all paired with local Rioja wines. Meals linger, conversations stretch, and the village encourages a slower pace. National Geographic’s choice highlights a growing appetite for quieter, meaningful travel. In January, Laguardia offers no queues, no noise, just winter light over vineyards and a village moving at its own rhythm.

Cloppers are here to stay

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I DO love my snooker. In actual fact, although I know of no one who plays it quite as badly as me, my never-failing attraction to those sportsmen and women who excel in the sport is one of my endearing pet habits. Unfortunately, it is a part of the audience that sticks in my craw. I warn you that once you are made aware of their existence your whole viewing experience will be changed for ever. These annoying little twaddles are the ‘cloppers’.

They are the audience members who are besotted with the ambition to always lead the applause. Generally, there are only one or two; annoying viewers whose handclaps sound like the more hollow and louder ‘clop’. A bit like horses’ hooves on the cobbles.

They are always heard first and generally manage one or two extra clops at the end of a burst of

applause. They don’t always get their own way. Occasionally, after a particular snooker shot, their clops are met with silence from the other supporters. ‘Clop clop’ and then nothing. But don’t worry they’ll be back again at the first opportunity. Boxing gloves would be a good idea, but don’t rush to supply, I’m afraid the cloppers are here to stay. Sorry to interfere with your enjoyment, but I can assure you from here on a round of snooker applause will never be quite the same again.

While we’re at it another stick in the craw for me is the practise of attaching plastic bottle tops to the neck of the receptacle. All right, all right, I know it’s been done to protect them being separated and consumed by unsuspecting species, but are they a darn nuisance or what! Firstly, the lids are almost impossible to re screw back on making any laid flat bottle leak all over the fridge. Pouring the liquid out into another receptacle can result in the liquid finishing up all over the worktop. Attempting to

actually drink from a plastic bottle presents all sorts of problems. If the still connected top is to the side the liquid dribbles from the corner of the mouth. If it is at the top it interferes with your nose and if you turn it around to the bottom the liquid spills down your chin. I dunno, has the ol’ boy completely lost the plot or couldn’t they have found some other way of protecting our endangered species?

Interesting to see that even though it’s a law passed in all the EU countries; it has also been adopted by a number of manufacturers in the UK. Is it yet another way for the Starmer brigade to slide the unsuspecting British public unobtrusively back into the clutches of our ever-hovering Common Market? Certainly, wouldn’t surprise me. Hang in there, stay as warm as you can. Try not to dribble too much. Keep that always very welcome mail coming and whatever you do, always

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.

In flight bomb threat

ON Thursday, January 15, a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Barcelona made an emergency landing at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport after a bomb threat was detected on board.

The Airbus A321, operating as flight TK1853 with around 150 passengers, departed Istanbul about 30 minutes late at 9.22am Turkish time. As the plane approached Barcelona, crew detected that a passenger had created an in-flight wireless network with a name containing a bomb threat.

Spanish authorities activated full emergency protocols. Two Spanish Air Force fighter jets escorted the aircraft during its final approach, after it circled over the Catalan coast for about 20 minutes. It touched down safely at 10.57am.

Passengers and crew were evacuated to the terminal without incident. A large-scale search involving Guardia Civil, Mossos d’Esquadra, National Police, firefighters, and Civil Protection personnel examined the aircraft, luggage, and all on board. No explosive device or other threat was found.

The Guardia Civil has opened an investigation to identify the passenger responsible for the message and determine the circumstances. Airport operations continued normally throughout, with no disruption to other flights, according to operator Aena. The all-clear was given and passengers were able to continue their journeys.

A Day Behind the Wheel: Porsche perfection on Andalucia’s

By Benjamin George

SOME days remind you why driving is a passion rather than simply a way of getting from A to B. Saturday, January 11, was one of those days.

I joined Porsche 911 Tours for their one-day Andalucian driving experience, meeting the group in Puerto Banus at 9.30am. From the outset, the variety of cars on display was impressive. The lineup featured 996, 993, 997 Targa and modern 992 models, all presented in astounding order.

The tour was hosted by a full team of experienced guides and a back-up mechanic, all of whom have lived in Spain for a lifetime and know these roads inside out. Their local knowledge and calm organisation ensured the day ran seamlessly.

We set off along the coastal road towards Manilva, with the Mediterranean beside us, before turning inland towards the white village of Casares. With fuel fully included, there was nothing to think about except enjoying the drive and the sce-

Driving in convoy was a real highlight. Each generation of 911 had its own character, yet all shared that unmistakable Porsche DNA. Personally, I particularly enjoyed the 993, blending classic feel with

Fuel,

Fully

• Annual membership of the Porsche 911 Tours Club with VIP discounts on future events in

and balance.

A coffee stop in Gaucín offered more than just refreshments. It quickly became a social hub, proving just how effective this experience is for networking and team building. The mountain road to Ronda delivered everything one could hope for. We enjoyed lunch overlooking the El Tajo Gorge and returned to Puerto Banus around 5.00pm, finishing with a drink at La Sala.

With food, drinks and fuel included, Porsche 911 Tours was a premium experience.

Albox is golden

ALBOX will shine golden on Sunday February 1, as the phenomenal KPOP Demon Hunters tribute show comes to town for a night of unforgettable family-friendly fun. This spectacular show promises a mesmerising combination of music, dance, and fantasy that will captivate children and adults alike.

Professional dancers and child entertainers will take to the stage, dressed up just like Rumi, Mira and Zoey, members of the iconic KPOP band, HUNTR/X.

Their powerful vocals and electrifying choreography are sure to mesmerise fans, leaving any rival ‘demonic boy bands’ far behind.

The performance also features a special interactive element: an exciting musical battle where fans in attendance can compete and

showcase their skills, adding even more energy and excitement to the evening.

With catchy tunes and high-energy routines, young audiences will have the perfect opportunity to sing, dance, and immerse themselves in the world of KPOP alongside their favourite characters

There are two possible time slots you can attend at the Centro Agua y Salud, either 5.00pm or 7.00pm.

Tickets are available to purchase for €18 online at www.festentradas. com/

Don’t miss this chance for a magical, musical adventure perfect for the whole family!

Coastal social

MOJACAR is inviting residents and visitors to enjoy a relaxed and sociable winter walk with a guided hiking route at Marina de la Torre. Organised by the town council, this free activity takes place on Saturday January 24 and is as much about good company as it is about enjoying the outdoors.

The walk starts at 9.00am, with participants meeting at the chiringuito next to the Marina de la Torre sports courts. From there, walkers will follow a scenic route lasting around three and a half hours and covering just under nine kilometres. The pace is steady and the difficulty is moderate, making it suitable for regular walkers who enjoy chatting along the way as much as taking in the views.

of opportunities to talk, connect and share the experience with others. It could be a great opportunity to meet new people and further integrate into the community.

ALMERIA

Mesón del Pescador RESTAURANT

JUST a short drive away from Mojacar, is the Mesón del Pescador in Garrucha, a place where you can explore the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean prepared every which way.

The Mesón del Pescador is best known for its seafood platter.

A real picture of extravagance, the platters are overloaded with a great mix of fresh or fried fish, adorned with thick slices of lemon to dress to your taste.

While they specialise in seafood, there are still plenty of options for meat lovers, such as the grilled pork loin or veal steak.

Fresh seafood can often come with a bit of a steeper price tag, but the Mesón del Pescador has options to fit every budget.

The seafood platters ranged from €18 per person to €49.50, while other dishes on the menu are available for less than €10.

REVIEW

You know a place is good when it’s just as popular with the locals as it is the tourists. There was a really great atmosphere to the place, no doubt a result of the staff’s infectiously warm welcome and service.

Mesón del Pescador is located on Paseo del Malecón, 104, 04630 Garrucha. Check out their website online to reserve a table and peruse their extensive menu at: mesondelpescador.net. For further enquiries call 610 331 573.

THE world-renowned Ballet of Kiev brings ‘Swan Lake’ to the Teatro Auditorio de Roquetas de Mar on Saturday January 31 at 9pm, promising an evening of classical dance performed from the heart. Each ticket purchased includes a €1 donation to UNICEF to support their ongoing emergency work in Ukraine.

Swan Lake

inception, the company has performed over 700 shows, touring internationally across Switzerland, Germany, France, Spain, Poland, Croatia, China, Ukraine, and Mexico, earning acclaim for its virtuosity and dedication to the classical tradition.

Winter conditions make Mojacar an ideal setting for social outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and clear coastal air. The route offers plenty

Comfortable footwear, water and a hat are recommended.

More route details are available online at www.mojacar.es/events/ ruta-marina-de-la-torre/.

Founded in 2017 by the celebrated soloist Viktor Ishchuk, the Ballet of Kiev unites the country’s finest dancers, including soloists from the Kiev Opera and Ballet Theatre. Since its

With music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, a libretto by Vladimir Beghitchev and Vasili Geletzer, and choreography by Marius Petipa, each performance is a feast for the senses. The

company is renowned for its impeccable technique, elegant lines, expressive soloists, and striking sets and costumes, all crafted in the prestigious workshops of Kiev.

Based at the Kiev International Centre of Culture and Arts, the Ballet of Kiev continues to share the richness of Ukrainian artistry with audiences worldwide. This performance promises grace, emotion, and timeless beauty.

TOPTrending

Run Away

TWO things are certain in life: taxes, and Net ix releasing a thrilling adaptation of Harlan Coben’s best-selling novels.

Run Away is the newest limited series to Net ix’s Coben collection which has built a reputation for being must-watch TV.

James Nesbitt stars as Simon, a father tormented by the disappearance of his drug addicted daughter. While searching for her, Simon nds himself stumbling on secrets that could destroy his family for good. Over the course of eight episodes one thing is clear: everyone is hiding a secret.

The Pitt

THE doctors of The Pitt are clocking in for another shift, as season 2 of the hit medical drama returns.

Medical dramas are television staples, but The Pitt manages to feel fresh with the unique premise of each season taking place over the course of one shift in the emergency room. This allows for a one-of-a-kind storytelling experience which has made The Pitt so popular with viewers.

The second season takes place 10 months on from the events of the rst. With the shift taking place on July 4, US Independence Day, the shift is sure to be a chaotic one.

Spain in mourning

IN the devastating high-speed rail collision near Adamuz, Cordoba Province, the death toll has risen above 40, as rescue operations continue. The tragedy unfolded on Sunday evening when an Iryo train travelling from Malaga to Madrid derailed, with its rear carriages veering onto the opposite track. Moments later, it was struck head-on by an oncoming Renfe Alvia train bound for Huelva, travelling at 200 km/h. The impact derailed the second train as well, sending carriages tumbling down a four-metre embankment and scattering wreckage over hundreds of metres. The tragedy moved the entirety of Spain as a national three days of mourning was announced.

The cause remains under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest the derailment

originated in one of the Iryo carriages invading the adjacent line, though all hypotheses - including potential track or vehicle failures - are open.

Heavy machinery, including giant cranes, has been deployed to lift the twisted wreckage, particularly the Alvia carriages. The high-speed line between Madrid and Andalucia remains closed for at least two weeks as

investigations proceed and repairs are made.

Amid the grief, Spain has shown remarkable solidarity: blood donation centres across the country reported triple the usual number of donors in the aftermath, as citizens rallied to support the injured. This has been the worst train accident in three years, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

ADVERTISING

FEATURE

Home IT Services celebrates two years delivering trusted tech support

Home IT Services is celebrating two years in the business. In that time, this family-run company based in Murcia, has built something that many people struggle to find, an IT service they can genuinely trust and understand. With more than 22 years of industry experience and a growing list of loyal customers the business has gone from strength to strength.

Founded by Anthony, Home IT Services is known for its honest and reliable home technology support. They provide home visits for computer and laptop sales, installation and repairs, home networking, TV systems, internet solutions and security installations.

Something customers often mention is how clearly everything is explained, without unnecessary jargon. That approach shows up again and again in Trustpilot reviews, where customers talk about patience, clear explanations and reliable support.

One client wrote: “Anthony from Home IT Services did an excellent job installing the satellite at my house. He was professional, punctual, and clearly knowledgeable. The installation was quick and tidy, and he explained everything clearly.” Another added: “We have been very happy with the service over the two years we have been customers. Nothing seems to be too much trouble. Always helpful and on hand with any questions.”

Over the past year, Home IT Services has grown and adapted its services as the needs of their customers have changed. Its British and international IPTV TV service is now available for just €150,

with live HD UK TV, films, box sets and sports and no complicated setups. For rural homes where traditional broadband struggles, they also install Starlink satellite internet, providing fast, reliable connections, even in more remote areas.

Another area they have been focusing more on is home security. Home IT Services installs modern, high-quali ty security systems that are significantly cheaper than the big-name providers without sacrificing reliability or support. Each system is adapted to the property and clearly explained, so clients feel confident using it from day one.

What really makes Home IT Services different is the way they work with people. You can just give Anthony a call for a friendly, no-pressure chat, where he’ll talk through any issues and explain the costs up front. Home visits are scheduled at a time that suits you, and he spends time going through what needs doing before starting anything. Most jobs can be done on the spot, and if anything needs extra parts or another visit, he keeps you fully in the loop every step of the way. The ser vice is perfect for retirees or anyone who isn’t confident with technology, because they make everything easy to understand.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

IMPORTANT NEW REQUIREMENT FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS: HABITATION LICENCES

IN recent months, platforms such as Airbnb have introduced stricter compliance rules - and a key requirement now being enforced across Spain is the submission of a valid Habitation Licence.

This has caught many property owners off guard, especially those who have had their homes for years or bought before such documents were common. Fortunately, you can still obtain this licence - even if your property is older, rural, or has undergone modifications.

Also known as a Licence of Occupation or Second Habitation Licence (Licencia de Ocupación), it is an official document issued by the local council (ayuntamiento) confirming that a dwelling meets the minimum legal

standards for habitation - covering structure, ventilation, sanitation, accessibility, and utilities.

While new-build homes usually come with this licence, older homes, extensions, and rural properties often don’t - even if they’re in perfect living condition.

Can I still get one? Yes - and we can help.

The process requires an on-site survey by a qualified architect, who certifies that the home meets current local and regional standards. Only architects are legally authorised to issue this document.

In many cases, especially with second-hand homes, we use a simplified process called a ‘Declaración Responsable de Segunda Ocupación’, which

allows owners to obtain the licence without excessive red tape.

It’s also worth noting that a Habitation Licence can serve other purposes beyond shortterm rentals and it may be required if you plan to sell your property, apply for a mortgage, or, in some regions, to change the name on utility contracts (electricity, water, etc).

Why it matters now? Shortterm rental platforms have started removing listings that don’t comply with housing and tourism regulations. Without a valid Habitation Licence, your property may be blocked from Airbnb and similar platformsor even face fines if checked by local authorities.

If your rental lacks a Habitation

Spain starts eating seaweed

ONCE a niche curiosity, seaweed is now making waves in Spanish kitchens, winning over renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià, Oriol Castro, and Andoni Luis Aduriz. Antonio Muíños, the Galician harvester and entrepreneur behind Porto Muíños, has been at the forefront of this culinary revolution.

Antonio Muíños explains that seaweeds, when used correctly, can transform dishes.

“When you try Pedro’s omelette with sea lettuce instead of turnips, you’ll go crazy. They are complementary ingredients, packed with iodine - a taste of the sea in every bite,” Antonio Muíños said to El Pais. Beyond the kitchen, Muíños sees seaweed revolutionising agriculture. “Kelps endure sun and wind at low tide, which strengthens their active compounds. Traditionally, washed-up seaweed was fermented and used as

fertiliser. Today we make bio-stimulant extracts: ground into powder, one litre mixed with 1,000 litres of water strengthens crops, boosts disease resistance, and helps them withstand heat and drought.”

Seaweed was virtually absent from Spanish kitchens at the start of the century, but Muíños’ pioneering work has changed that.

“Ferran Adrià led the way in 2006, and since then top chefs have continued using them.

Across Europe, seaweed is now sold in supermarkets, specialist shops, and organic stores. Fresh varieties are growing more slowly, but seasoned products are coming, including an organic wakame version without additives.”

Muíños remains optimistic: “Although called the food of the future, seaweed is already part of our culinary present.”

Licence, or you’re unsure, this is the right time to act - before it affects your income or legal standing.

We handle everything for you: At Martínez de la Casa Architects, we manage the entire process - from the on-site survey to document preparation, submission, and payment of applicable fees.

We have already helped thousands of owners across Murcia, Almeria, Alicante and beyond regularise their properties with ease.

We believe in honest, transparent pricing. Here are some of our most requested services:

• Pool Retrospective Licence (Certificate of Antiquity): €326.70 (VAT included)

• Extensions Retrospective Licence: €363.00 (VAT included) - for works built without prior permission or to register extensions in the title deeds

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): €121.00 (VAT included; excludes regional registration fee)

• Habitation / Occupation Licence: Price varies depending on location - ask us for a quote.

how we can

End of freelance riders

UBER EATS will stop working with self-employed delivery riders in Spain, ending large-scale freelance food delivery in the country. The company confirmed it will switch entirely to riders employed through subcontracted fleet companies, after the Spanish government warned it could face criminal action for breaching the Rider Law. The change will take effect ‘as soon as possible’, making Uber Eats the last major platform to abandon the autónomo model. The move follows pressure from the Ministry of Labour, which has insisted since 2021 that app-based riders under algorithmic control should be treated as employees. Spain’s Rider Law presumes couriers are workers in practice, regardless of formal status.

While some platforms adapted early, Uber Eats resisted, offering a hybrid system allowing riders to choose self-employment or fleet work. Labour inspectors rejected that compromise.

from the government over labour laws.

In December, the government issued an ultimatum: comply or face criminal charges. Uber Eats has now opted to fully change its model. Freelance riders have 60 days to join a subcontracted fleet or lose app access. The company will not hire riders directly; all must work via third-party logistics firms.

the move, with Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz saying it could bring 50,000 riders into formal employment, generating over €100 million in social security contributions. Reactions among riders are mixed, with some welcoming contracts, while others fear reduced hours, pay, and flexibility.

Spain and Africa colliding

SOUTHERN Spain, particularly Malaga, Almeria, Granada, and Murcia, experiences the country’s highest seismic activity due to the slow convergence of the African and Eurasian plates. This ongoing tectonic process builds stress in the Earth’s crust, released through frequent minor earthquakes, many of which are shallow and perceptible to local populations.

The region lies near a complex plate boundary under the Alborán Sea, featuring dense faults and fractured crust. The Betic Cordillera and surrounding areas experience deformation from compression and lateral movement, making the area geologically active.

Faults beneath the Granada Basin and inland systems like Alhama de Murcia contribute to localised tremors.

Continuous monitoring by Spain’s National Geographic Institute tracks thousands of quakes annually, although most are minor and cause little damage.

Scam warning issued

Authorities emphasise preparedness over alarm.

Buildings in Andalucia and Murcia incorporate seismic risk, and emergency response systems are designed for varying intensity levels. Public awareness campaigns encourage residents to adopt safety measures, understanding that small tremors may relieve some tectonic stress but do not eliminate the possibility of stronger quakes. The region’s seismicity

OASIZ, the largest shopping centre in Torrejon de Ardoz and across the Madrid region with 250,000 square metres, has o cially entered insolvency proceedings. The voluntary request came from its legal owner, Carlotta Iberia SL, submitted to Madrid Commercial Court No. 14, following pre-bankruptcy proceedings in July 2025. After negotiations with creditors, inclu-

is a permanent geological reality, re ecting millions of years of plate convergence. While disruptive, this activity de nes southern Spain’s natural landscape. Understanding the underlying geology allows for e ective risk management, ensuring residents and infrastructure are better prepared while acknowledging that occasional tremors are an enduring feature of life in this part of the Mediterranean.

Oasiz

Photo Credit: Molly Grace

EXPATRIATES in Spain are being urged to stay alert after a fraudulent letter falsely claiming to be from Spain’s Social Security authorities began circulating nationwide.

Spanish o cials have conrmed the letter is not genuine and forms part of a scam designed to steal personal and banking information.

The fake correspondence poses as an o cial notice from the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social (TGSS) and claims to relate to a supposed ‘change of bank details’. To appear legitimate, it uses formal language, an o cial-looking logo and references a recent cyberattack that allegedly resulted in lost data.

ding the Torrejon de Ardoz City Council and the Cale Street Fund, Carlotta Iberia led for liquidation to sell the centre and recover part of its debts, which exceed €320 million. A recent appraisal values Oasiz at around €140 million.

Recipients are asked to urgently resend sensitive information to ‘update their records’, including copies of both sides of their DNI or NIE, a bank statement showing account ownership or authorisation, and details of their last Social Security payment. The letter warns that failure to comply could a ect future payments and even promises a monthly increase of between €75 and €150 - a classic pressure tactic. Crucially, victims are instructed to send this information to a private Outlook email address, something no Spanish government department would ever do. Authorities urged Social Security will never request personal or banking details by letter or email. Anyone receiving such a letter should not respond, should keep it as evidence, warn others, and verify concerns only through ocial channels.

faces liquidation

The debt stems from construction overruns, delays in attracting key retailers, and low footfall, which prevented the centre from meeting its targets. Cale Street Investment, the main creditor, has submitted an o er to acquire the centre, its retail spaces

and contracts. PKF Attest has been appointed as insolvency administrator.

Oasiz will remain open during the liquidation process, with around 80 per cent of retail space operating as usual, including Mango, Lidl, Fnac, and the Cinesa cinema chain. The centre’s opening was delayed four times, and occupancy and visitor numbers have consistently fallen short.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Creepy jellyfish

AN £8 children’s jellyfish toy bought via TikTok has been removed from sale after it was heard saying: “Live audio now being transmitted to data centre for analysis.” TikTok says it is investigating and has pulled the product while checks are carried out.

WTTC relocates

THE World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) will relocate its global headquarters from London to Madrid. The move, unanimously approved by its operating committee, cites Spain’s business environment, connectivity and proximity to UN Tourism and a larger international talent pool.

Wind & solar

A BANK consortium led by NORD/LB, Rabobank, and Siemens Bank has backed €135 million financing for a 199MW wind and solar portfolio acquired by ENCAVIS in Spain, supporting the country’s 2030 targets, including 62 GW of wind capacity and 76 GW of solar capacity.

Pub prices

UK pubs face fresh pressure after Diageo confirmed wholesale price rises from April 1, lifting the cost of Guinness Draught by 5.2 per cent and a 70cl bottle of Smirnoff by 13p. The firm cited rising business costs amid industry uncertainty.

AI advice

RESEARCH by Cleo AI finds UK adults aged 2840 are increasingly open to AI financial advice, amid weak savings and low confidence. While one in five are curious, trust remains a hurdle, with financial stress - not tech enthusiasm - driving interest, says founder Barney Hussey-Yeo.

The number of dissolved companies in Spain increased by 6.4% year-on-year. (2024-2025) STAT OF WEEK

EU–Mercosur deal

SPANISH farmers are continuing protests against the EU–Mercosur trade deal, arguing it would put further pressure on European agriculture by opening the market to more imports from South America. In recent days, demonstrations have included tractor-led roadblocks in Catalonia on major routes such as the AP-7 and N-II, with disruption also reported near the port of Tarragona.

The protests come as the EU moves closer to formally signing the long-negotiated agreement. On January 9, the Council of the EU adopted decisions au-

thorising the signature of both the EU–Mercosur Partnership Agreement and an interim trade agreement, marking a major step after more than 25 years of talks.

The EU–Mercosur deal is a broad trade pact between the EU and the Mercosur bloc,

la Caixa updates

THE Board of Trustees of the la Caixa Foundation has renewed Isidro Fainé as chairman and approved a record €710 million budget for 2026.

According to an official statement published January 12, the board also unanimously re-elected Javier Godó as vice-chairman.

It also announced the Foundation’s 2025 financial statements, allocating €655 million to social programmes. These initiatives supported nearly 250,000 beneficiaries in Spain and Portugal through direct social intervention projects, including child poverty reduction, employment integration and elderly care, according to the same release.

led by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Its aim is to cut tariffs and expand market access, while including protections for sensitive sectors such as agriculture.

Farm organisations across Europe argue these safeguards are inadequate.

In Spain, protests have focused on Catalonia, where farmers have blocked key freight corridors near the French border, causing delays to cross-border traffic. Similar demonstrations have taken place in France and Greece.

Farmers’ groups say the agreement would expose EU producers to competition from imports produced under different cost and regulatory standards.

The European Commission says access for sensitive products such as beef, poultry and sugar will be limited through quotas and safeguard clauses.

The €710 million budget for 2026 represents an 8.4 per cent increase on the previous year and a 63.3 per cent rise since 2014. Nearly 60 per cent of the funding will be directed to social programmes, with 20 per cent each allocated to research and to cultural and scientific dissemination.

Drab Christmas UK hospitality

A NEW analysis from UKHospitality warns that six hospitality venues a day could close in 2026 without government action on business rates. The analysis forecasts the closure of 963 restaurants, 574 hotels, and 540 pubs following steep rate rises from April.

Chair Kate Nicholls said soaring costs risk forcing thousands of neighbourhood venues to shut, urging ministers to apply the maximum 20p multiplier discount to protect jobs and growth.

UK retailers endured a ‘drab Christmas’ as sales growth slowed for a fourth straight month, according to the British Retail Consortium. Total sales rose just 1.2 per cent year on year in December, well below last year’s performance.

While food sales were boosted by inflation, non-food spending fell as consumers delayed gift purchases in anticipation of discounts. BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said households remained cautious, with Boxing Day sales providing only limited relief.

Alstom impact

ALSTOM has presented in Barcelona a new study by EY detailing its economic, industrial and social impact in Spain, with a strong focus on Catalonia. The report shows Alstom generated 7,316 jobs in Spain in the last financial year and contributed €400 million to national GDP, while purchasing over €530 million from Spanish suppliers. In Catalonia alone, the group supports more than 1,500 direct jobs, works with 320 local suppliers and spent €207 million regionally, while continuing to expand and modernise its Santa Perpètua industrial site with new production capacity and renewable energy investment.

SPAIN recorded €2.8 billion in hotel investment in the first three quarters of 2025, up 41 per cent year-on-year, according to recent research from Colliers.

Investment was almost evenly split between holiday hotels (54 per cent) and urban assets (46 per cent). The Canary Islands led capital attraction with 32 per cent of total volume, followed by Barcelona (17 per cent), Madrid (10 per cent) and the Balearic Islands (10 per cent). Domestic investors accounted for 61 per cent of activity, while investors increasingly targeted value-add opportunities, asset repositioning and secondary destinations.

Autonomous trucks Hotel investment

ITALIAN commercial vehicle maker IVECO has launched a new Level 4 autonomous driving programme in Spain with long-term partner PlusAI, aiming to deploy heavy-duty autonomous trucks in southern Europe for the first time. Working with logistics firm Sesé and the government of Aragon, the project will see IVECO S-Way trucks equipped with PlusAI’s SuperDriveTM system tested from 2026 on the Madrid–Zaragoza freight corridor, with safety drivers onboard throughout multi-year trials.

Seafood

exit

SPANISH seafood firm Nueva Pescanova is preparing to exit Mozambique, selling its subsidiary Grupo Pescamar and a fleet of 26 vessels, according to industry sources cited by Zitamar News. The move highlights the collapse of Mozambique’s once-lucrative prawn industry, which generated around $100 million annually at its peak before overfishing and environmental damage depleted stocks, reports Business Insider Africa.

3I Group 3.329,00 3.353,00 3.315,50 189,72K Admiral Group 3.062,00 3.068,00 3.030,00 43,47K

Airtel Africa 357,11 359,8 354,6 192,41K

Anglo American 3.220,00 3.255,00 3.186,00 262,97K

Antofagasta 3.584,00 3.604,00 3.535,00 88,3K

Ashtead Group 5.216,00 5.258,00 5.168,00 113,55K

Associated British Foods 1.872,50 1.873,50 1.849,50 62,19K AstraZeneca 13.964,00 14.188,00 13.960,00 159,53K

Auto Trader Group Plc 576,6 582,4 575,6 239,54K

Aviva 674,6 678,2 670,2 561,72K

B&M European Value Retail SA 168,6 170,99 165,8 673,05K

BAE Systems 2.129,18 2.159,00 2.105,00 1,39M Barclays 478,95 484,25 477,25 5,26M

Barratt Redrow 376,4 380,7 375,5 279,88K

Beazley 825,5 825,5 818 55,77K

Berkeley 3.948,00 3.982,00 3.932,00 9,87K

BP 436,85 439,9 435,45 2,86M British American Tobacco 4.368,00 4.375,00 4.306,00 349,07K BT Group 182 182,6 178,15 1,55M Bunzl 2.059,30 2.066,00 2.056,00 26,44K Centrica 181,35 183,05 181,25 1,09M

HBC AG 3.920,00 3.926,00 3.890,00 46,38K

2.302,00 2.307,00 2.281,00 181,04K

4.451,40 4.392,00 25,77K

5.485,00 5.635,00 5.483,48 31,33K

485,3 487,29 480 509,62K

14.207,40 13.635,00 11,6K

676,5 683 662,5 17,7K

3.902,00 3.950,00 3.842,00 306,33K

480,45

BUSINESS EXTRA

Recycling clothing

THE European Union will pilot clothing recycling incentives in Spain under the Horizon Europe-funded TexMat project, using smart containers that reward consumers with economic rebates linked to second-hand markets, supporting circular textiles and extended producer responsibility ahead of a possible EU-wide rollout.

TGI Fridays

TGI FRIDAYS has closed 16 UK restaurants, resulting in 456 job losses, after its UK operator entered administration. The remaining 33 sites will continue trading following a rescue sale to the brand’s global owner, safeguarding 1,384 jobs, administrators Interpath confirmed.

JD SPORTS Fashion plc has announced plans to let customers buy products directly through artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, starting in the United States in the coming months, according to a statement published by the retailer January 12.

The UK-based retailer said shoppers will be able to search for and purchase footwear, clothing and accessories in a single click without leaving AI apps, marking a significant shift in how online retail transactions are carried out.

AI shopping

Portion control

OCADO has launched a new range of GLP-1-friendly products, including a 100g extra-small steak, responding to growing demand for smaller, nutrient-dense portions among customers using weight-loss injections.

The launch follows Ocado research of more than 2,000 consumers, which found only 40 per cent understood how GLP-1 drugs such as Mounjaro and We-

govy work, while 42 per cent were aware weight loss can reduce lean muscle mass.

With up to 2.5 million UK adults estimated to be using injections by mid2025, Ocado has also introduced a dedicated Weight Management aisle, bringing together high-protein, high-fibre foods and meals designed to support healthier weight-loss journeys.

The initiative follows a global agreement between JD Sports Fashion plc, commercetools, and Stripe.

The deal will see JD become the first retailer to use commercetools’ Agentic Commerce Suite, which links AI-driven product searches directly to secure checkout and payment systems.

The rollout will begin with Microsoft Copilot, before extending to other large language models including Google Gemini and ChatGPT, as those platforms enable direct purchasing features.

JD said the US was selected as the launch market because it is the group’s largest, accounting for around 40 per cent of global sales.

Research shows rapid uptake among younger consumers, with consultancy KPMG finding that 30 per cent of people aged 25 to 34 used an AI-enabled chatbot to look for online deals in the past year.

UK Business Adviser

KATIE MARTIN has been appointed Business Adviser to the HM Treasury, working directly with Rachel Reeves from January 12. The unpaid, 12-month role aims to strengthen engagement with UK business leaders and support the government’s economic growth agenda, the Treasury said

AIRPORT operator Aena handled a record 321.6 million passengers in 2025, up 3.9 per cent on 2024, marking a third consecutive annual high. Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport remained the busiest, as Aena prepares investment plans to meet rising demand.

Brussels Airlines WiFi

WiFi on board, marking a major shift for an airline that has offered no connectivity once planes leave the ground. The change comes via its parent, Lufthansa Group, which has signed an agreement with Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX.

Unlike older onboard systems, the satellite-based setup should provide a connection closer to what passengers expect on the ground, allowing streaming, cloud work, messaging and browsing without typical interruptions. No exact launch date has been confirmed, but Lufthansa Group expects the first aircraft to enter service later this year. Rollout will be gradual across the 850-aircraft fleet, with full installation planned by the end of 2029. Brussels Airlines will benefit directly from the

group-wide upgrade.

Free WiFi will initially be available to frequent flyers with status and passengers using Travel ID, the group’s digital identification platform. The airline has not yet confirmed whether free access will eventually extend to all passengers. The rollout begins on short- and medium-haul Airbus A320s, before expanding to long-haul aircraft, allowing the system to be tested on shorter flights first.

For business travellers, it offers the chance to work in flight; leisure passengers can stream or stay in touch. The move reflects rising expectations that staying connected is a standard part of flying.

Gibraltar border overhaul

Gibraltar border faces major change as the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) nears full implementation, potentially reshaping one of Europe’s most sensitive frontiers. Senior Spanish officials from the Foreign Affairs, Interior and Finance ministries recently visited La Línea de la Concepción to assess how the system could operate, highlighting Madrid’s efforts to prepare for changes affecting non-EU travellers.

Gibraltar’s situation is unique. Since Brexit, passport checks for residents entering Spain have been temporarily suspended, while British authorities have avoided routine checks on EU citizens travelling into the territory. This arrangement has helped maintain daily cross-border flow but was never intended to be permanent. Its future depends on a long-awaited EU–UK treaty granting Gibraltar Schen-

gen access and redefining border controls at the land crossing and airport.

Non-EU nationals already face full checks, though congestion and heavy traffic have made strict enforcement difficult. The EES will replace passport stamping with biometric and digital data collection, reducing flexibility. Technologically, the border is ready, with fingerprint scanners, cameras and IT systems installed. What is missing is political agree-

ment to activate them. A trial phase could begin in February, with full rollout expected by April, in line with the wider EU programme. Practical questions remain over border layout and airport checks, particularly with Spanish officers on Gibraltar arrivals. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo says a provisional treaty text is under review and could be finalised within weeks, potentially ending years of post-Brexit uncertainty.

Guinness prices climb again

DRINKS giant Diageo confirmed that the wholesale price of a pint of Guinness will increase by 7 cent from February 3, marking the fifth rise in just three years.

Ireland already has the highest alcohol and tobacco prices in the European Union, at more than double the EU average, according to Eurostat. Only Norway and Iceland are more expensive across the wider European Economic Area. The latest increase has renewed questions about why pint prices keep climbing while headline inflation has slowed.

Lower prices

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

Central Statistics Office figures show the average price of a pint of stout has risen by around 18 per cent since late 2022.

Credit: Pexels Engin Akyurt

Pricey pints.

Diageo has cited ‘industry-wide cost pressures’, including rising labour,

A HOSPITAL in the Netherlands has successfully performed a pioneering surgery on a 36-year-old man with hip dysplasia. The patient received a 3D-printed hip implant at Anna Hospital in Geldrop, Noord-Brabant, on Friday, January 16, marking the first time the procedure has been carried out on a human. Hospital officials confirmed the surgery went according to plan.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip socket is misshapen, causing pain, instability, and limited mobility. It can lead to the need for hip replacement at a younger age, with conventional surgery involving long and painful recovery.

The new technique stabilises the hip joint using a custom 3D-printed implant, tailored precisely to the patient’s anatomy. It aims to delay

higher wages, insurance

total

energy and distribution costs. Publicans say those pressures, alongside higher wages, insurance and utility bills, leave little option but to pass increases on to customers. However, official data suggests wholesale price rises account for less than half of the total increase faced by consumers. Location also plays a role. Pint prices vary widely across the country, with Dublin consistently more expensive than many regional towns. High prices in tourist-heavy areas push up national averages and help normalise higher costs. For now, inflation may be cooling elsewhere - but for many Irish drinkers, the most sobering moment of a night out still comes when the barman names the price of a pint.

role. Pint prices vary wiregional towns. High prices up normalise

3D Hip breakthrough

World-first 3D-printed hip implant offers hope for dysplasia patients.

major bone surgery and prevent early total hip replacements. The method was developed by Dr Björn Meij, a professor of clinical sciences at Utrecht University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, who previously treated hundreds of dogs with the same approach. Anna Hospital adapted the technology for humans in collaboration with Eindhoven University of Technology.

The man is the first participant in a pilot study of five patients, whose recovery, safety, and pain levels will be closely monitored before wider use. The success offers a major step forward for 3D printing in medicine and new hope for patients with similar bone conditions, with a potentially shorter and less painful recovery than conventional surgery.

In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the questions in our survey as it has given us valuable feedback on our services and enabled us to integrate positive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain.

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH

Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quotes over the phone. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums.

Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

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When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

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All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

WARM, glowing lights, otherworldly underground lakes and a city carved into the earth: the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland remains unmatched, and last year it drew record numbers of visitors. As 2026 begins, the site o ers an enticing holiday destination for travellers.

In 2025, a record 1.91 million people, nearly 70 per cent foreigners, explored the historic mine, up 10 per cent on 2024 and surpassing Poland’s previous record, set in 2019.

Britons were the largest group of foreign visitors, with 272,000, followed by Italians with 143,000 and French visitors numbering 87,000, according to the Polish Press Agency.

Located near Kraków, the mine began operating in the 13th century, producing table salt until 1996. At 327 metres deep across nine levels, its corridors stretch some 245 kilometres underground. Tourists can explore three levels along a 2.2-kilometre route. One highlight is St Kinga’s Chapel, carved more than 100 metres below

Underground wonder

ground, featuring intricate rock salt sculptures, including a version of Leonardo’s Last Supper. Other attractions include hollowed-out chambers under coloured lights for events, the Crystal Grottoes, and numerous monuments and carvings.

for Poland. For 2026, it promises a chance to experience a mysterious underground labyrinth hidden kilometres beneath the surface.

Spookie Spanish Stone-Age supper story!

WARNING! You don’t like spooky stories? Go and have a cup of co ee or ick ahead to the crossword page... Still with me? Read on!

If you thought the neighbours in your Spanish village could be a little frosty, spare a thought for the unfortunate souls of El Mirador cave. Archaeologists from the Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution have uncovered what can only be described as the remains of the worst dinner invitation in history – a Late Neolithic cannibal feast!

Radiocarbon dating places the grim gathering at around 5,600 years ago, when locals were swapping spears for sickles and learning that farming didn’t always mean harmony.

The remains of 11 people - children, teenagers and adults, possibly one family -

were found in about 650 bone fragments. The evidence? Clear butchery marks, human bite impressions and signs the bones were boiled and... chopped...

These weren’t ancient ritual sacri ces: researchers found no ceremonial trappings. This was no solemn farewell, but systematic, neighbourly hostility - a suspected post-con ict menu choice.

The ndings, published in Scienti c Reports, suggest cannibalism wasn’t merely an occasional quirk of desperate times, but perhaps a more regular item on the Late Neolithic dining calendar. So, in an age before takeaway pizza, was this simply what happened when disputes over farming plots got… well… out of hand?

Either way, El Mirador o ers a sobering reminder: always be nice to your neighbours - they might just invite you for dinner!

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

Tax turmoil

EUROPE’S largest airline, Ryanair, has warned it will cut more than two million seats in Belgium in 2026 and 2027 unless the country reverses its tax plans.

INTERVIEW

The warning follows Belgium’s late-2025 announcement to raise the federal air passenger tax from €5 to €10 from 2027. From April 2026, Brussels’ Charleroi Airport will also impose a €3 tax per departing passenger.

Ryanair criticised the increase, which represents a ve-fold rise from €2 in 2025, saying it will drive tra c and jobs to other EU countries. The airline urged Prime Minister De Wever to reverse the rise, warning it could cost millions of passengers, thousands of ights, and thousands of jobs in tourism and

support sectors. Ryanair pointed out that most EU countries are abolishing aviation taxes, which it says have ‘failed’ elsewhere, making Belgium’s increase illogical. CEO Michael O’Leary described the tax as ‘stupid’ and ‘ridiculous’, noting passengers will simply choose more a ordable destinations. “Aircraft and passengers are mobile. If Belgium imposes these taxes, they will shift to lowercost, tax-cutting states like Sweden, Italy, Hungary, Slovakia and Albania,” he said.

Ryanair carried 11.6 million passengers to and from Belgium in 2025. It has warned this could fall to 10.6 million in 2026 if the Charleroi tax proceeds, and to 9.6 million in 2027 if the measures are not reversed.

Speaking European: Sasha Lindgren from Denmark

Sasha Lindgren, a Danish expatriate, has transformed her passion for baking into a thriving local success with the recent opening of her bakery business in Benalmadena.

SHE moved to the Costa del Sol with her family in 2014, keeping baking as a hobby. About 18 months ago, she began sharing creations with neighbours. The response was instant and enthusiastic.

Credit: EWN

“It started small, just for people I knew, but the reaction was incredible - everyone loved the cakes and the feedback has been wonderful. Word of mouth did the rest.”

Sasha & her creations.

Her rich, moist carrot cake and zesty lemon drizzle cake quickly became favourites, while Danish-style chocolate tru es, made to a treasured family recipe, have built a loyal following.

For Sasha, the key is balance: “A truly great cake must be fresh, moist and perfectly judged - not too dry, not overly

sweet. That harmony is what brings people back.” She introduced popular DIY boxes - tea sets with scones and Victoria sponge, birthday kits with mu ns and decorating supplies that delighted children, and Christmas cookie boxes with icing and sprinkles.

Determined to grow, Sasha has enrolled in a professional cake-decorating course to master piped icing and intricate designs. She dreams of creating wedding cakes. Through hard work, authenticity and a love of northern European baking, Sasha has found her place in Malaga Province, proving a heartfelt hobby can become a community success. There’s no going back now.

10k every day

WHEN your friends boast about walking 10,000 steps a day, you might roll your eyes. What show-offs. However, your friends are quite literally taking the steps to a healthier life.

Walking 10,000 steps has significant health benefits. Walking can strengthen your bones, muscles, and joints, possibly preventing future stiffness and pain. Plus, the improved blood circulation that comes from walking can enhance your heart health.

As far as exercise goes, walking is pretty low stress, gradually strengthening your body without pushing it over the edge.

There’re also clear examples of daily walks being good for a person’s mental health as much as their physical health. Exercising leads

Credit: Shutterstock, AYO Production

to a release of endorphins, helping to make you feel more relaxed and happier. Simply getting out in the fresh air can lead to mental clarity, and feelings of isolation can be improved by the low-effort social interactions often encountered on walks.

Reaching your 10,000step goal doesn’t mean you have to carve out

time in your day to go on a long walk. All you have to do is make some clever adjustments. Take the stairs instead of the lift, walk to the shops instead of jumping in the car, leave early and walk the long way to work.

Ten thousand steps a day can lead to a longer, happier and healthier life.

Nine holes can be enough

MEDITERRANEAN

LIFESTYLE EXPERT

MIGUEL FRANCO

GOLF mornings used to feel rushed. Checking the time, thinking about scores before the first shot was even hit. Somewhere along the way, many of us stopped noticing how the game actually feels.

Lately, I’ve been playing just nine holes in the morning. Walking. No rush. No competition. No phones. Just moving across the course at a steady pace, talking when it feels natural, staying quiet when it doesn’t. Finishing with a coffee instead of a result.

What surprised me most was how the rest of the day felt afterwards. Clearer. Calmer. Less hurried. The day didn’t start in a rush; it unfolded. Nine holes turned out to be enough, enough to move the body, clear the head and reset the rhythm of the day. That rhythm fits perfectly with the Mediterranean way of living: not

more, not faster, just enough, done well.

Out of this experience grew The Mediterranean 9, a fixed weekly nine-hole morning at Cerrado del Águila. Walk-first. Small group. No pressure. It takes place every Tuesday at 09.00.

Some come for the golf. Others for the walk. Most stay for how it makes the rest of the day feel.

To read the full article, discover more about The Mediterranean 9, and explore my other Mediterranean lifestyle columns, visit www.casamiguel.life and look under Golf.

No planes? No problem: I crossed the World anyway

TO COAST

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA FROM COAST

I’VE been writing about my challenge: crossing the world from Malaga to California - without planes. Pure madness? Maybe. Genius? Possibly. Absolutely absurd? Definitely. Every adventure, long ride, and unexpected friendship proved one thing: travel is far more fun when you ignore common sense.

A big scare on a transatlantic flightnine hours from LA to Paris, sweating, choking, praying like a monk, wondering if my life insurance covered midair emergencies - made me swear: never again. And yet, California called. No wings? No problem. Bus, train, ferry, taxi, Queen Mary 2… let’s roll… literally.

The first leg - Malaga to Paris by bus - was almost heroic. Almost. Changing buses at 3am in the Basque Country, bleary-eyed, I nearly shouted at the police: “Yes, it’s me! Take me away, I give up!” Spoiler: they didn’t.

Paris to Caen? Bliss. Rolling countryside, train wine, the illusion that I was chic instead of insane. Caen greeted me with locked hotel doors, no staff, no phone. Midnight adventure: find the key or sleep with the potted plants. Classic.

Then came the ferry to Portsmou th. First sea crossing - no falling over board! Score. Southampton arrived with buzzing nerves and caffeine-fue lled exhaustion. I’d always thought transatlantic voyages were for billio naires, aristocrats, or people who whisper ‘Titanic’. Somehow, there I was.

And then… the Queen Mary 2. Red carpet. Champagne in the cabin. Roses. Towels folded like swans - or very confused seals. I wept. Possibly hugged someone. Every corridor screamed: Luxury! Do

not touch! And yet, my main mission remained: find the buffet.

Days at sea became a delightful routine: heavy-china breakfasts, laps on deck, martinis at the Commodore Club, and my obsessive quest to locate the elusive buffet. Whisky tastings at 10am? Why. Line dancing afterward? Public hazard. Afternoon Tea? Chaotic and glorious. Then - revelationStilton cheese at midnight.

And suddenly… Manhattan. Tiny flickers in the dark mistaken for floating continents. Heart racing, wig nearly lost. As the QM2 slid under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, New York sparkled like it knew I’d earned it. From there, trains carried me west: Penn Station madness, Chicago gusts, Route 66 stretches, and tumbleweeds that looked suspiciously like aliens. Sleep? Optional. Luggage chaos? Guaranteed. Joy? Unquestionable.

Finally - California. Santa Monica. The spot where Interstate 10 ends, from the Atlantic to my beloved Pacific. Endless blue, salty air, and me, slightly emotional, still obsessed with snacks and Stilton after a world crossed without a plane.

But in my defence, the joy was never the destination but the journey… (Yeah, Lucca, what can you say - ha!)

The adventure isn’t over - if you’d like to follow the full eight-part series, you can read it here: https://eurowee klynews.com/author/lucca-movaldi/.

Europe’s safest airlines

FOR passengers uneasy about flying, a new global safety ranking offers reassurance. AirlineRatings has released its list of the world’s 25 safest airlines for 2026, analysing data from over 320 carriers. Europe features strongly, with seven airlines in the top 25, reflecting high safety standards across the continent.

Leading Europe is Turkish Airlines, ranked 12th globally. Operating from Istanbul and flying to more countries than any other airline, it has not recorded a fatal commercial accident since 2009. Close behind is Virgin Atlantic, 13th worldwide, which has never suffered a fatal crash since its launch in 1984. Other European carriers in the top 25 include TAP Air Portugal (16th), SAS Scandinavian Airlines (17th), British Airways (18th), Iberia (20th) and Lufthansa (21st), reflecting

long-term operational consistency.

Low-cost carriers also perform strongly. European airlines make up 40 per cent of the safest budget operators. easyJet ranks fifth globally, with no fatal accidents since 1995. AirBaltic, Wizz Air, TUI, Vueling, Norwegian, Jet2, Ryanair, Transavia and Eurowings also feature, challenging the perception that cheaper fares mean lower safety.

Rankings are based on a seven-star system considering fatal accidents, pilot-related incidents, fleet age and international safety audits. Participation in IATA’s Turbulence Aware programme is included, while terrorism-related incidents are excluded. Etihad Airways tops the global list, but Europe’s strong showing reassures travellers choosing either full-service or low-cost carriers.

Dali in the dump

AN employee at a charity shop in Ghent has made an extraordinary art-world discovery after rescuing a Salvador Dalí lithograph that was just moments away from being thrown out.

Nicolas Bracke, who works at a branch of Kringwinkel on Getouwstraat, spotted the damaged artwork leaning against a container destined for disposal. The glass in the frame was broken and the piece appeared worn, but something about it caught his eye.

“I thought it was beautiful,” Bracke said. “Even though it looked ready to be thrown away.”

On closer inspection, he noticed the name Salvador Dalí engraved on the frame. Further checks revealed an edition number matching a known Dalí lithograph series, iden -

tifying the work as ‘La femme cheval’ (The Woman Horse).

The Dalí was not the only surprise among the donations. Bracke also uncovered Father and Son by Roger Raveel, one of Belgium’s most celebrated post-war artists. Both works are believed to have been donated unknowingly, likely during a house clearance.

“I did a little dance of joy,” Bracke admitted. The artworks will be sold at a public auction on January 22, when the Ghent charity shop will be transformed into a temporary gallery. Proceeds from the sale will support Kringwinkel’s social employment projects, turning an almost-forgotten donation into a valuable cause.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Eyes on Mijas

MIJAS Cuuncil has announced plans to install more than 150 AI-equipped surveillance cameras to enhance public safety across the municipality.

The €2 million project, unveiled by Mayor Ana Mata will create a 24/7 monitoring network managed by the Local Police Coordination Centre (CECOM). Cameras will be strategically placed in the main population centres - Mijas Pueblo, La Cala, and Las Lagunas - as well as key urbanisations, public squares, high-traffic areas, and major access points.

High-resolution cameras with night vision and artificial intelligence will support crime prevention, protect public spaces and heritage, and aid traffic control through licence plate recognition. The system, developed with police input and a specialist company, will transmit images mainly via wireless networks to reduce costs and disruption. The council confirmed full compliance with data protection laws.

Axarquia

Record breaking year

EL INGENIO shopping centre in Velez-Malaga enjoyed a standout year in 2025, posting record visitor numbers and sales as it marked its 25th anniversary.

The centre welcomed 9.2 million visitors last year, a 3.4 per cent increase on 2024. This strong performance significantly outpaced the national trend in Spain, where the ShopperTrak index showed only about a 2.5 per cent rise in footfall and the Cadlan index remained virtually flat.

Aggregate store turnover rose by an impressive 7.1 per cent, another record figure for the site.

Owned by Salsa Patrimonio and managed by MVGM, El Ingenio described the results as “very positive” and said they reinforced its competitive strength in a period of limited sector-wide growth.

Opened on Monday, November 6, 2000, the open-air centre has become a key retail and leisure destination on the eastern Costa del Sol. Its bright airy spaces, multiplex cinema and wide dining choices have helped it attract locals and visitors.

Mallorca

Global burger chain buzz

RUMOURS are gathering pace in Mallorca after reports suggested that Five Guys could be preparing to open its first restaurant on the island. ‘Coming soon’ signs featuring the brand’s logo have reportedly been spotted in Magaluf.

Although the company has not yet made an official announcement, the branding is consistent with Five Guys’ international outlets. The sighting has been enough to spark widespread speculation, particularly among the island’s large British and international expatriate community.

If confirmed, the opening would mark Five Guys’ debut in Mallorca, adding another global name to the island’s fast-growing dining scene. Magaluf, known for its nightlife and high tourist footfall, is widely viewed as a strategic choice for a first location, especially given its popularity with UK and European visitors.

If the opening goes ahead, diners can expect Five Guys’ signature made-to-order beef burgers, hot dogs and hand-cut fries.

Costa Blanca South Tourism transformation

TORREVIEJA has officially presented the strategy it will showcase at FITUR 2026, the largest international tourism fair in the world, to be held from January 21 to January 25 in Spain’s shining capital of Madrid. The strategy includes a reinforcement of Torrevieja’s tourism promotion, from its laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, its reputation as a Costa Blanca music hub, and its plans for a transformation of its urban landscape.

Torrevieja’s programme for FITUR 2026 will include the presentation of the video, ‘Torrevieja, the City We are Building’. The video will showcase an overview of projects that will redefine the municipality, including the renovation of the port of Torrevieja, the enhancement of the Salt Flats, the protection of the environment of the La Mata Lagoons Natural Park, the revitalisation of the Sport City, and the New University Headquarters i. The town is known as one of the places to be when it comes to music events and festivals.

Costa Blanca North Wilder Cinema

CINE JAYAN in Javea has been chosen as one of the launch venues for Wilder Cinema, a bold new cultural brand dedicated to reviving cinema as a shared, community experience. Kicking off in five cities - Madrid, Barcelona, Guadalajara, Lleida, and Javea - the pilot phase offers films and events designed to be enjoyed collectively under the best conditions.

Wilder Cinema isn’t just a schedule; it’s a curated programming label running alongside Jayan’s regular lineup, showcasing classics, cult films, anime, family favourites, and pre-releases.

February and March feature timeless titles like Citizen Kane, Modern Times, and The 400 Blows, alongside contemporary hits such as Her and family favourites like Princess Mononoke. Javea also hosts the Spanish premiere of Marty Supreme on January 22, starring Timothée Chalamet, Golden Globe winner and Oscar frontrunner.

CARTAGENA experienced a lively day of community, blessings and tradition during the blessing of the animals, celebrating one of the most deeply-rooted traditions of the San Antón neighbourhood. The event, which took place on Saturday, January 17, is dedicated to San Antonio Abad, the patron saint of animals, and over time, the blessing of the animals has become a traditional event in many areas of Spain.

Various activities were held in honour of the event, including several processions and periods of prayer. Held at noon, the blessing of the animals was the main event, historically used to protect horses, oxen, and other animals on which the livelihoods of many households depended. Nowadays, most of the animals being blessed are companions or pets.

During these days, the traditional San Antón rolls were distributed to the citizens of Cartagena, a traditional Spanish sweet bread shaped into a ring or cylinder to bring the community together.

PETS

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Lamia Walker - Founder HouseSitMatch

Tel: +44 (0)7772 142742 / Register online at HouseSitMatch.com

THERE are some days when taking your dog on three long walks isn’t possible. Whether sickness or extreme weather conditions, these things happen. But your dog is still going to need to let out all that energy some other way.

Tug of war is a great physical workout for you and your dog. It’s also a useful tool for teaching them impulse control as you can train them to ask permission to take the toy, and to let go upon command. Tug-of-war lets

Dog walk alternatives

your dog roughhouse in a controlled environment. Another fun, interactive game to play with your dog is hide and seek. Maybe not ideal if you live in a studio apartment, but if you’ve got the space, this could pass the time and tire out your pup. You can either hide yourself, a favourite toy, or treats around your house for an impromptu scavenger hunt. Just make sure the

breakables are put away before they zoom around the house. Spend the time you’d normally be out on a walk to teach your dog a new trick.

The challenging aspect of these lessons will get their brains working. Not only will they master a new skill, but it will keep them entertained and the mental exercise eventually tire them out.

CLASSIFIEDS

or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly. (253989)

DRAINAGE

BUILDERS

ALMERIA BUILDERS: Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www. almeriabuilders.com (253556)

BUY & SELL

WE BUY Persian carpets, fur jackets and coats, pewter and silver of all kinds 90/100/800, silver-plated cutlery, jewellery and watches of all kinds, amber, coral, coins, medals, porcelain. Inheritances and household liquidations, military until 1945, photos, medals etc. Fair pricecash Tel. 688 335 497 (350441)

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www.almeria-anglican.com

Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 711 086 162 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIONZurgena Branch meetings are now held at Hostal Rosaleda opposite New Bar International in Arboleas. New and Existing Members Welcome Branch Meetings for existing and new members are held on the 1st Thursday of the month, Coffee Morning on the 3rd Thursday and a Quiz on the last Tuesday of the month. For further details please email zurgena.treasurer@ rbl.community or zurgena. chairman@rbl.community if you

Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

LANGUAGE CLASSES

MOTORHOMES

LOOKING for motorhome or caravan. Fair price paid in cash. Tel 688 335 497 (350441)

MOTORING

FOR SALE

ESTATE AGENT

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 672 634 849 for more information (283824)

INSURANCE

ALBOX INSURANCE contact us today for all your insurance needs. Albox Office: 950 121 943  Mojacar Office: 634 323 399 (313627)

AWARD-WINNING AGENT for ALL your insurance needs.

GENERALI SEGUROS ALBOX/ MOJACAR INSURANCE, ALBOX OFFICE: 950 121 943. Mojacar office: 634 323 399 (10003)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call

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)

MOTORS WANTED

WE BUY high quality vehicles, also customs. No obligation offer. Tel 688 335 497 (350441)

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

PETS

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €8.00, medium dogs €9.00, big dogs €10.00, cats from €7.50 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (312130)

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 684 143 560 (313270)

REMOVALS

AMANDA’S REMOVALS SpainUK. We won’t be beaten in price. 634 310 512 / 634 349 347 (350461)

SALES advisor required in Turre, 12 hour contracted position. Applicants must be fluent in English and Spanish and have a valid driving license. We are looking for someone with excellent customer service skills and able to work on their own initiative. Applications by email only to revolutionsales@ protonmail.com (313740)

SOLAR ENERGY SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (300068)

Can you buy Range Rover luxury and style for sensible money?

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

RANGE ROVER has always exercised a particular hold over buyers thanks to a combination of all-terrain ability and sheer luxury. Over the last few years this has been somewhat dented, to put it mildly, by reliability issues.

Initially a utilitarian workhorse, Range Rovers long ago evolved into the height of luxury and sophistication with prices now starting from €121,000/£105,000 for the full-size model. In answer to my title question there are a couple of ways to have affordable Range Rover luxury. One is to have very deep pockets, the other is to look at classic models. You still need a contingency fund in terms of running a classic Range Rover, but there’s a certain cachet nowadays to running a

modern classic.

The third generation L322 - manufactured from 2001 to 2012 - has garnered much attention of late thanks to its more original looks, build quality and lack of too much technical wizardary to go wrong. Some well-known owners - Jeremy Clarkson and former EVO magazine owner, and highly rated YouTuber, Harry Metcalfehave certainly sparked wider interest.

One of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s L322 sold at auction last year for €184,582/£160,000.

Over its lifespan the L322 came with a BMW 3.0 V6 diesel, a 3.6 V8 diesel and finally a 4.4 V8 diesel. Petrol power plants are a 4.4 V8, then a Jaguar derived 4.2 V8 Supercharged and finally a 5.0 V8 Supercharged. The highly regarded

V8 gains favourable comment too.

All have their many positives, and negatives, but the diesels are the most popular given their economy. They arguably have more potential issues than their petrol engine mates, but the financial effects of the fuel consumption on petrol models verges from catastrophic to bankruptcy.

TD

Bodywork is generally reaso-

nable but the rear door arches are a well-known corrosion point, as is the tailgate and subframes. Mechanical maladies can be varied so a very healthy contingency is recommended.

You can find L322s from as little as €2,884/£2,500 but buy the very best you can afford. I would say €14-17,000/£1215,000 buys an example to be proud of and its charms will gradually hook you in to long term ownership. The more original your L322 the classier it will look and the more admiring glances it will attract.

There is something particularly special about a classic Range Rover in that it doesn’t have the same often negative connotations of the newer models. Supremely quiet and comfortable they lack all the annoying modern interruptions of technology, but remain an immensely safe, luxuriously practical and stylish family holdall.

FIFA certified turf Veterans return

THE veterans of UD Almeria and FC Barcelona will meet on Saturday, January 24, at 7pm at the UD Almeria Stadium, in a match organised as a tribute to Guillermo Blanes. The fixture is set to be both emotional and focused on raising funds for several local causes.

Blanes, one of the key figures behind the creation of Almeria CF and later UD Almeria, attended the presentation and spoke openly about the meaning of the event. He said he was delighted by the recognition but stressed that helping organisations that support others was what matte-

All proceeds from the match will go to Asociación de Niños con Cáncer

de Almeria (Argar), Asociación Astea Autismo, Centro de Acogida Nazaret and Fundación Poco Frecuenta. Tickets cost €10 and can be purchased from Blanes establishments.

Luis Malpica, coordinator of the veterans, confirmed a long list of former Almeria players expected to take part, including Gualda, Gorri, Esteban Navarro, Raúl Sánchez, Kalu Uche, Pablo Piatti, Álex Vidal and Chico Flores. Flores and Paco Luna attended the presentation and spoke of their pride at wearing the red and white shirt again.

Children from schools and local football clubs have also been invited,

VERA’S football teams aren’t just leaving it all on the field when they play, they’re quite literally ripping up the field.

Las Viñas football pitch has undergone a massive refurbishment project, with a total of €320,000 in investment as Vera Town Council work to improve municipal sports facilities.

The project worked to improve the pitch’s drainage system, renewing the irrigation system and updating the piping. New sports equipment was also installed in the Las Viñas, including two new benches for substitutes.

This is not the first time Las Viñas football pitch has undergone renovations since it was first built in the 1960s. The pitch was completely demolished and rebuilt brick by brick back in 2008, and in 2012 the natural grass pitch was replaced since.

After close to 13 years of use and countless games played, the artificial turf was well past its expiration date and has been replaced with FIFA Quality artificial turf, cer tified by the prestigious

FIFA seals. This new turf is reserved for elite professional football, not only providing Vera’s football team with a sense of credibility, but ensuring the athlete’s safety and promoting optimal perfor mance from players.