Costa de Almeria 26 February – 4 March 2026 Issue 2121

Culinary celebration

Albox celebrates Andalucia Day with tasty new tradition

ALBOX is preparing to celebrate Andalucia Day on February 28 with its newest and tastiest tradition. The municipality will again host their Traditional Migas Contest as residents from Albox’s rural villages gather to celebrate together.

Migas is a rustic dish that originated in small towns and rural villages. The dish takes day-old bread and breathes new life into it, creating something even more delicious. The stale bread is ripped into little bits, soaked in oil and spices then sautéed. Each village has their own version, incorporating different ingredients and techniques. Despite its humble beginnings, migas is a classic, hearty meal that many still enjoy.

Albox’s cooking contest is a recent addition to the festive calendar. 2025 was the first time the municipality celebrated Andalucia Day in such a way, and it was a resounding success. Despite being marred by bad weather, hundreds accepted the invitation to gather and dig into the dishes on offer.

Organisers are expecting the second edition to be even better, building off the success of the first.

The second edition is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 28 at the Centro de Agua y Salud at 2.00pm. Clubs and associations, families and friends will meet to cook, eat and socialise.

Benji Torregrosa will be on hand to perform live music, creating a lively atmosphere. What’s more, a

bar will be set up on site to help wash down the meal. The event was designed as a way to bring neighbourhoods together for one harmonious celebration. In the coming years, organisers hope a different village will host each new edition, preparing and sharing their recipe, and simultaneously raising funds for their own local festivities.

Women’s Day race

IN celebration of International Women’s Day, Almeria is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated events on the sporting calendar: the 18th Women’s Race.

Taking place every year on March 8, the Women’s Race has become a fundamental activity. The race creates unity as participants travel from across the province to take part. Most importantly, it amplifies the critical message of women’s equality.

The 2026 edition is set to take place at Calle Antonio Muñoz Zamora, next to the Parque de las Familias. To ensure accessible participation, three routes of varying lengths will be offered, all of which depart at 11.15am. Children are also welcome to take part, with their race starting a little earlier at

10.00am.

For those fancying a less rigorous but equally rewarding contest, this year there will also be a Women’s Race Photography Contest. The top three snapshots from the day will be awarded a prize.

Registration remains open until March 4 for just €14 through www.mujeralmeria. es. As always, the race doubles as a charity fundraiser, with a portion of the registration fees donated to El Alquian Women’s Cultural Association, a collective that supports women and promotes equality.

Last year’s edition saw 2,270 runners tackle the challenges, raising almost €3,000 for a worthy cause. Organisers hope the 2026 edition will be their most successful yet.

Lucky draw delight

SUPPORTERS of PAWS-PATAS have another reason to celebrate after the third winner of the PAWS-SOME CLUB draw was announced. Kate Bullivant received the surprise of her life when organisers rang her live on air to tell her that the dog she had chosen to represent her, Hobo, had been pulled from the bucket. The delighted winner will receive vouchers worth €250 to spend at Decathlon, Primark, Amazon and Al Punto Restaurant. A handful of places are still available for the next draw on March 24. Membership costs €5 per month, with numbers capped at 100.

The charity’s diary for the coming weeks is equally busy. On March 5, the popular Bingo Lunch Club returns, priced at €10 including two full games and lunch. Demand is high, so early booking is advised.

On March 20, celebrations for International Day of Happiness take centre stage with

a Mr & Mrs Competition and Quiz. Hosted by Kay Frances, the evening includes sharing platters from The Snug, a free raffle ticket for every guest and prizes including a weekend for two in Almeria.

Then on April 4 comes the fifth Alternative Miss Mojacar, a multi-charity event costing €5 to enter. Men are invited to represent PAWS-PATAS for a chance

to win €100. No singing or dancing needed, just pop on a wig, a bit of lippie and something girly. Two days later, Paws on the Paseo begins at Bellini, featuring an egg hunt, Easter bonnet contest and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.

For more information, booking events/PAWS-SOME CLUB membership, please email events@paws-pa tas.org.

Benefits beyond retirement

SAFETY NET EXPLAINED

FOR many workers in Spain, the transition from the workforce to retirement is rarely a straight line. The Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal (SEPE) has clarified a critical safety net for those approaching the traditional retirement age: unemployed individuals can continue receiving benefits (paro) after age 65, provided they meet specific legal criteria.

The continuation of payments is not a universal right but a measure designed for those caught in a bureaucratic limbo. Under Spanish social security rules, unemployment benefits typically cease the moment a contributory retirement pension begins. However, if an individual reaches retirement age but lacks the necessary years of contributions to qualify for a pen-

sion, SEPE can maintain their payments ‘oficio’.

To maintain these payments, the burden of proof lies with the citizen. Recipients must obtain an official certificate from the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social (INSS) confirming they are ineligible for a retirement pension. Without this document, SEPE may automatically close the file, assuming the individual has transitioned to pension status.

Even after age 65, the rules of the game remains the same. Beneficiaries must remain registered as job seekers and stay within the established income limits. For those on the subsidy for over-52s, proactive planning is essential to avoid administrative gaps.

RISING CONTRIBUTIONS AHEAD

SPAIN’S pension reform is hitting high earners harder in 2026, with new Social Security figures showing a sharp rise in contributions from top salaries. Revenue from the highest earners is set to jump 42 per cent in a year, as key measures from the 2023 reform take full effect.

Most workers will see only modest increases, but those earning above the maximum contribution base will again bear a disproportionate share of the cost.

Two mechanisms are driving the

rise. The first, the solidarity contribution, applies only to salaries exceeding the maximum base, rising to just over €5,100 per month in 2026. As this ceiling increases, so does the revenue, projected at around €567 million next year, up 42 per cent on 2025.

The second, the intergenerational equity mechanism (MEI), is designed to build a buffer for future pension costs. In 2026, it is expected to raise €5.3 billion, nearly double its first-year intake and 20 per cent more than 2025.

Combined, the two measures will generate about €5.9 billion, one of Social Security’s fastest-growing revenue sources.

Higher contributions do not increase individual pensions. MEI funds feed the pension reserve, unavailable until 2033, while the solidarity contribution supports the system’s redistributive character. Employment growth remains the main driver of Social Security income, with total contributions forecast at €189.8 billion in 2026.

Spain’s tax simulator

Plan ahead now

SPAIN’S 2025 income tax simulator is now live, allowing residents to estimate whether they will owe tax or receive a refund before the official campaign opens on April 8. Provided by the Agencia Tributaria, the tool covers income earned in 2025, with the filing deadline set for June 30.

Called Renta Web Open, the simulator is not the official submission platform. Users manually enter financial details to generate a preview of their likely tax outcome, showing whether they are due a refund, expected to pay Hacienda, required to file a return, or whether joint filing could reduce their bill.

A key advantage is accessibility. Unlike the full filing system, the simulator does not require Cl@ve or a digital certificate. It can be accessed via the Agencia Tributaria website under ‘Simuladores’, with users entering employment income, bank interest, investment returns, self-employment earnings and deductions. The system produces a PDF preview similar to the official draft return.

A negative amount indicates a refund, while a positive figure shows tax payable. Using the simulator early helps taxpayers avoid surprises and provides time to review deductions or consider joint filing options. While it does not automatically access official tax data, it offers a useful snapshot for planning ahead of Spain’s 2025 income tax campaign.

Top earners hit euroweeklynews.com

Beach clean up

FOLLOWING the most recent winter storms, huge amounts of waste and debris have washed to shore across the Spanish coast.

In El Ejido, local residents rallied, determined to preserve their homes’ natural landscapes. On Sunday, February 22, a total of 65 volunteers collected an outstanding 700 kilos from Peñon del Moro beach.

The volunteers included local residents, foreign citizens and out of town visitors. All bonded by their desire to protect nature. Cautious of the sensitive biodiversity that inhabits the beach and the surrounding dunes, volunteers personally collected the washed-up microplastics, rather than let the city council clean the beaches with intrusive machinery. Maintaining clean beaches is essential, not only for personal enjoyment, but for personal safety and environmental conservation. While beach

clean-ups are crucial for environmental preservation, it’s important that residents realise that every piece of rubbish they litter, ends up in the oceans. Environmental conservationists emphasise that cleaning is not the solution to ensuring a prosperous future. Instead we as a species have to raise awareness, promote education and be more aware of our impact on the natural environment.

Face cover ban

FOLLOWING a plenary session on Thursday, February 19, Nijar Town Hall approved a motion that would limit access to municipal buildings for anyone whose face is completely covered.

This motion would restrict those wearing garments such as the niqab or burka, garments that prevent officials from verifying an individual’s identity.

Vox Municipal Group presented the measure as an essential tool for safety. They believe it will significantly reduce the possibility of false impersonation and protect personnel data.

According to documentation, this measure does not limit any one group. Rather,

the regulation will be generally applicable to anyone with partial or complete facial concealment. Officials emphasise that the burka and niqab are simply included in the list of prohibited items, not individually singled-out.

Members of Nijar’s Muslim community, however, believe this to be a targeted restrictive measure.

Abdallah Mhanna, president of the Almeria Centre of Imams, described the motion as “an act of the same radical, fantastical and racist propaganda that is spreading throughout Europe.”

Rising talent

AN Almeria native, Laura Gil Saracho, has successfully progressed to the final round of the Le Cordon Bleu Madrid’s Haute Cuisine Award. In order to qualify for the final, Saracho demonstrated her impeccable skill, talent and palette through a five-minute video challenge. Each contestant had to put their twist on the same, classic dish of Stuffed Quail and Soufflé Potatoes, accompanied by a sauce and garnish of their choice. Competitors were encouraged to use classic flavours and ingredients from their region, bringing a taste of home to the prestigious competition.

A student of CPIFP Almeraya in Almeria, Saracho will face her biggest challenge yet: the final. On April 14, the 10 finalists from across eight Spanish provinces will travel to Madrid. There they will compete before a jury of influential industry professionals including Javier Ollero, head chef whose restaurant boasts two Michelin Stars and three Repsol Suns.

Saracho will be competing, not just for the honour of being recognised, but also for a lucrative scholarship. The top two finishers will receive €24,000 and €9,000 in funding, respectively. Additionally, the first-place winners’ school will also receive a €1,500 grant for their effort in promoting the competition.

The debate surrounding full-facial coverings has gained national attention. The motion to prohibit burka and niqabs in public spaces was recently voted on in Congress. Unlike in Nijar, Congress did not approve the motion.

IN an effort to encourage citizen participation and promote community bonding, Albox Town Hall is launching a new Cultural Passport programme.

Albox has a rich and storied history and often holds events to revisit its past and celebrate

Albox’s cultural passport

its culture and customs. These events are as educational as they are entertaining. Through the Cultural Passport initiative, Albox hopes to educate and integrate residents further, encou-

raging them to explore the town’s cultural and historical routes.

Residents can pick up their Cultural Passport from the town hall from Sunday March 1. From there, they simply attend

a variety of local events throughout the year, getting their passport stamped at each activity. Their loyalty and participation will be rewarded as enticing gifts are up for grabs for those who

manage to fill their passports.

Participants under 40 years old have the chance of winning a digital kit, consisting of a tablet and eBook. And participants over 40 could win

an exciting trip to the Puy du Fou theme park, scheduled to take place on October 18 and 19. The completed passports must be returned to the town hall before the October 1 deadline for participants to be eligible for the final prize draw.

IN honour of International Women’s Day, recognised every year on March 8, Vicar Town Hall are celebrating its most influential women, both past and present.

Celebrations will begin on Friday, March 6 with the 2026 Women’s Role Models Awards. During the event, Vicar Town Hall will honour local women who have made a profound difference to their local communities. The ceremony will take place at the Auditorium Theatre, and serve as a fundraising event, with all proceeds from the ticket sales being donated to the Almeria Association of Foster Families.

Later in the month, on March 28, the Hotel La Envia Golf will be hosting the Women’s Dinner. Women of all ages and backgrounds will convene to share their personal life experiences, gifting insights and advice

Women’s Role Model Awards 2025.

from one generation to the next. Additionally, Vicar Town Hall previously organised a public exhibition celebrating the achievements of six women in science. The exhibit was

displayed in the town hall’s Patio de Luces until February 20, a prime location where locals and visitors were able to discover their remarkable stories.

Snowball battle

A MAN from Almeria has gone viral after organising Germany’s biggest snowball ght, gathering 500 people for the snowy battle.

Half Spanish, half German Daniel Tonnar Leyva never expected his mostly-joking attempt at organising a snowball ght to go viral. Let alone that it would amass 1.4 million views and inspire such a monumental turnout.

Approximately 500 people gathered in front of the Alte Pinkothex in Munich, answering Daniel’s call to action. It was the biggest, coldest ght Munich had ever seen. At least in recent years.

Proud to present

video’s virality.

Credit: Shutterstock, MintImages

What was a fun, impromptu gathering was soon spoiled, predictably, by bureaucracy. City authorities contacted Daniel, urging him to cancel the event, stating he didn’t have permission to organise what they saw as a public demonstration in city streets.

However, it was too late. The word was already out, and there was no slowing the

As a result of organising such a large gathering without o cial permits, Daniel potentially faces a ne of up to €3,000. Many deem this to be an unfair punishment, and have already begun donating money to cover the amount.

Despite the hefty ne, Daniel is proud of what the snowball ght represented. Hundreds put their daily lives on pause and braved the elements to take part in an activity that brought joy to many.

ON Wednesday February 18, at their monthly meeting, the Dames of Huercal-Overa were proud to present a number of cheque donations to four local charities.

A €1,000 cheque was donated to each of the following charities: Ibizan Hound Rescue (represented by Di Hughes), Nico Dog Rescue Support Spain (represented by Di Je rey) and ASTEA Autismo Almeria (represented by Monica and her colleague from the society). A €500 cheque was presented to APA Nueva Vida (represented by Karen Baulsh).

A further €500 was provided to APA Nueva Vida the previous day (Tuesday February 17) when some of the Dames’ committee members (Kathy South, Valerie Wells, Lorraine Parkinson and Sue Burton) went shopping with Karen to buy some much needed trees for the shelter.

This allows the dogs some shade during the hot summer months, which they do not currently have.

They visited BPZ Comercial Agricola and with help from Andres from BPZ, were able to select a number of suitable trees, with Andres going along to the shelter to organise the planting of them.

Dames of Huercal-Overa are a group of ladies who meet on the third Wednesday of every month at 10.30am at the Las Vegas Hostal Restaurante Café in Huercal-Overa. They are always eager to welcome new members. The rst visit is free and the annual membership is €15.

Cosmic journey

TRAVEL through space and time at Pulpi’s new Meteorite Museum.

The Meteorite Museum offers a one of a kind experience. With more than 100 meteorites on display, there’s nothing else like it across the whole of Europe.

The layout of the new museum has been carefully designed to take visitors on a journey. Ten thousand stations have been set up to acutely trace the timeline of the universe, from when the stars first exploded into being, to when meteorites first crash-landed on Earth.

reach for the stars.

More than 100 authentic meteorites, all with different origins, will be on display. Organisers hope this will give visitors a unique opportunity to explore the origins of the solar system in an immersive, tangible way.

Blending scientific information with an emotional narrative, the museum hopes to attract space-enthusiasts and inspire a whole new generation to

Opening its doors for the first time in March, the Meteorite Museum will be located in San Juan de los Terreros in Pulpi. The Chilean company, Rocks of the Universe, who promoted this initiative, purposefully chose Pulpi to host the museum, citing its ‘unique geological morphology’ and proximity to the world’s largest crystal cave as a deciding factor.

With this new cultural and scientific landmark, Pulpi is on its way to becoming a hub for geological tourism.

A simple life

A BRITISH family has attracted attention in both Spanish and UK media after relocating from suburban England to rural Andalucia in search of a simpler, more affordable lifestyle. Callum and Jemma McGlynn moved with their two children from Hertfordshire to a neglected cortijo near Cantoria, Almeria, purchasing the property for just €40,000.

The decision followed mounting financial pressure in the UK, where high housing costs, rising mortgages and long working hours left little time for family life.

The property, abandoned for around two decades, was structurally sound but largely uninhabitable. Over time, the family renovated it into a functional home focused on sustainability and self-sufficiency. They installed solar panels, water-collection systems and basic infrastructure,

allowing them to live with minimal utility costs. The land surrounding the cortijo includes roughly 100 olive trees, which the family now maintains to produce olive oil, turning daily chores into educational experiences for their children.

Both parents continue to work remotely in the technology sector, enabling financial stability while avoiding commuting. The children are

homeschooled in English and Spanish, with lessons adapted to rural life, agriculture and environmental awareness. The family reports significantly lower living costs, improved well-being and a slower pace of life.

While challenges remain, including ongoing maintenance and post-Brexit residency limits, they describe the move as transformative and deeply rewarding.

Smart cameras rolled out

HUERCAL-OVERA has expanded its municipal surveillance network with the installation of next-generation cameras equipped with Artificial Intelligence in its outlying districts.

The town hall confirmed that the system, managed by the Local Police, will now total 130 cameras positioned strategically across the municipality. The latest phase focuses on the pedanías, reinforcing security beyond the main urban centre.

The project forms part of an ongoing strategy that began several years ago in both the town and surrounding districts. According to the council, the cameras have become a key tool in strengthening protection for residents and maintaining calm across neighbourhoods and rural areas.

Councillor for Public Safety José Manuel Viseras described the investment as a significant step forward. He said the commitment to public security remains firm and stressed that the modernised system, incorporating intelligent cameras, will allow officers to operate more efficiently.

The council maintains that the surveillance network plays an essential role in crime prevention and emergency response. Images and data gathered assist both the Local Police and the Guardia Civil in identifying and detai -

ning those involved in illegal activities.

New units have been installed in El Saltador and Almajalejo, increasing oversight of vandalism, theft and traffic management at key points in these districts.

VERA is positioning itself as a premier destination for sustainable tourism with the launch of a new cycling initiative, led by the local council in collaboration with Cycling Friendly. The project promotes active, healthy, and environmentally conscious travel, offering visitors a unique way to explore the area.

As part of the campaign, 10 cycling routes have been developed, spanning the town centre, coastline, and nearby villages. The routes cater to all abilities and preferences, including road, mountain, gravel, e-bike, and family-friendly options.

Cycling friendly

With its mild climate, quiet roads, and diverse landscapes, Vera is presented as an ideal year-round cycling destination.

The initiative also introduces new facilities to enhance the cyclist experience, such as clear route signage, informative panels, interactive maps, and downloadable GPS tracks. Local authorities are supporting the project with an extensive strategic plan, informed by detailed analyses of existing infrastructure, stakeholder

consultation, and benchmarking studies.

Mayor Alfonso Garcia emphasises the council’s commitment to expanding cycling tourism through events, specialised services, and adapted accommodation. Under the slogan ‘Cycle along the Mediterranean and enjoy an authentic destination’, Vera invites visitors to explore its beaches, heritage, and natural beauty from the saddle, strengthening its reputation as a top cycling destination in southern Europe.

Warm seasons, new risks

A VIRAL illness once mostly limited to tropical regions is gradually appearing closer to the Mediterranean, with Spain among the areas where it could emerge.

Experts warn that Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease known for causing severe joint pain, is expanding its reach as rising temperatures create ideal conditions for transmission across southern Europe.

Transmitted primarily by the Asian tiger mosquito, Chikungunya is rarely fatal but notoriously painful. Symptoms include high fever, fatigue, and intense joint aches that can persist for months. While the virus was historically restricted to warmer climates, the distinction between tropical and temperate zones is blurring.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) identifies Spain as a hi -

Credit: Shutterstock/AU USAnakul

Experts warn a tropical mosquito-borne disease could move closer to the Mediterranean, with Spain at risk.

gh-risk zone due to the established presence of the tiger mosquito in several regions. As Spanish summers lengthen and winters soften, the ‘transmission window’the period during which mosquitoes can thrive and spread the viruscontinues to grow.

While large-scale outbreaks remain rare, ‘imported cases’ from travellers can now lead to local transmission du-

ring peak seasons.

Health authorities stress that while the risk to the general public is currently low, vigilance is key.

Prevention remains the primary defence: residents are advised to eliminate standing water and use repellent. As climate change reshapes global disease patterns, diseases once considered ‘distant’ are becoming a local reality.

Shared seasons of fasting

THIS year, two of the world’s most important religious observances are unfolding side by side. Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and Lent, the Christian period of reflection leading up to Easter, are beginning at almost the same time, creating a rare overlap that is drawing attention across Spain. Both traditions share surprising

similarities, especially around fasting, self-discipline, and spiritual renewal.

Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which shifts earlier by around 10 days each year, while Lent is tied to the Christian liturgical calendar. Because of these shifting timelines, the two periods occasionally overlap, offering a unique moment where millions of Muslims and Christians are observing parallel traditions.

At their core, both emphasise restraint. During Ramadan, practising Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, focusing on prayer and charity. Lent, particularly in traditionally Catholic countries like

Spain, is a 40-day period associated with sacrifice and moderation. Despite the similarities, the daily rules differ. Ramadan features a total fast from food and water during daylight hours, often concluding with communal nightly meals. Lent is typically less uniform, with believers often giving up specific habits or avoiding meat on Fridays. In Spain, this dual observance is particularly visible, as vibrant Iftar gatherings in cities like Madrid and Barcelona take place alongside the historic preparations for the iconic Semana Santa processions. It is a rare cultural crossover that highlights a shared human impulse to slow down and reflect.

The last opportunity: A key-ready luxury villa

Just 400 metres from the beach in San Juan de los Terreros ADVERTISING FEATURE

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This independent villa sits on a private 362m² plot and has been thoughtfully designed on a single level, a layout increasingly sought after for its practicality and long-term comfort. Its L-shaped design enhances privacy around the private swimming pool while allowing the interior spaces to flow naturally toward the outdoor areas. Above, a rooftop solarium offers open views and an additional space to enjoy the Mediterranean climate throughout the year.

Inside, the sense of volume is immediate. The main living and dining area features three-metre-high ceilings, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that

feels both elegant and functional. The entire property is south-facing, ensuring that natural light fills the bedrooms, living room and kitchen for most of the day. Beyond aesthetics, this orientation contributes to energy efficiency and a consistently pleasant indoor climate.

What sets this villa apart is that it is

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San Juan de los Terreros stands out as one of the most established coastal towns in the province of Almeria. Open year-round, it combines Blue Flag beaches with essential services including schools, a medical centre, shops and a growing selection of restaurants.

Connectivity further strengthens its appeal. Región de Murcia International Airport and Aeropuerto de Almeria are both within approximately 50 minutes, while Aeropuerto de Alicante-Elche and Aeropuerto de Málaga-Costa del Sol provide additional international access. For golf enthusiasts, Aguilón Golf is just three kilometres away.

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Día de Andalucia

FOR many people outside southern Spain, Andalucia is often associated with beaches, flamenco and tourism, but for residents the region’s identity is rooted in history, politics and collective experience. Día de Andalucia, observed each year on February 28, is a civic holiday that reflects this deeper sense of belonging.

Rather than a religious or local fiesta, the day commemorates the region’s democratic journey and its fight for political recognition within Spain.

The holiday marks the 1980 referendum in which Andalucians voted for full regional autonomy during Spain’s transition to democracy. Despite being the country’s most populous region, Andalucia had long faced economic hardship and political marginalisation. The vote represented not only a constitutional milestone but also a demand for dignity, equality and self-determination. Its suc-

cess reshaped the region’s political standing and led to the establishment of Día de Andalucia as an official public holiday.

Celebrations today blend history with culture. Public buildings display the greenand-white Andalucian flag, official ceremonies include the regional anthem, and schools and institutions organise educational events. Food plays a central role, particularly pan con aceite

y azúcar, reflecting Andalucia’s agricultural heritage. Music, flamenco and cultural performances animate public spaces.

When the holiday falls on a weekend, participation broadens. Families gather, towns host outdoor events and expats find it easy to join in. More than four decades on, Día de Andalucia remains a reminder that the region’s identity is civic, democratic and ongoing.

Second-hand takes the lead

A NEW survey from the Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios (OCU) shows that three out of four Spaniards aged 18-64 purchased at least one second-hand item over the past year, marking a significant shift in consumer behaviour. On average, participants spent €167 annually on pre-owned goods, reflecting both economic and cultural influences. Savings remain a key motivation, with buyers paying roughly 21 per cent less than original prices, often using online platforms like Vinted and Wallapop to negotiate with private sellers.

In-person collection was common, particularly for smaller items, reducing delivery costs. Popular purchases included clothing, footwear, and accessories (49 per cent), books, films, and music (46 per cent), and furniture or home décor (44 per cent), with toys and sports equipment also featuring prominently.

Sellers also benefited, with 41 per cent having sold items in the last year, averaging €137 in earnings. Consumer rights and transparency were highlighted, with the OCU calling for clearer product descriptions, better dispute resolution, and improved warranties. While Spain’s market is informal and largely peerto-peer, participation rates are high. Comparisons with the UK reveal higher spending and more frequent purchases there, indicating Spain’s second-hand sector is still emerging. Economists and consumer experts note that the trend promotes affordability, sustainability, and mainstream adoption of reuse, suggesting second-hand commerce is transitioning from niche to a regular component of household consumption, with broader implications for online marketplaces, economic savings, and environmental impact.

Migrants for care homes

SPAIN’S care home sector has announced a landmark initiative to offer employment to 160,000 migrants eligible for the government’s new regularisation programme. The Federación Empresarial de la Dependencia (FED), the nation’s leading employers’ association for dependency care, aims to bridge a chronic labour shortage as the population ages rapidly.

The plan follows a government decree granting residency and work permits to roughly 500,000 undocumented migrants who arrived before December 31, 2025. These individuals must have lived in Spain for five months and hold no criminal record. FED estimates that nearly a third of this group could be absorbed into elderly residences and home care services.

While the initiative offers a pathway to formal employment and social security, it has faced scrutiny. Critics warn that a rushed integration of workers without formal experience or language proficiency could compromise patient safety. In response, FED President Ignacio Fernández-Cid emphasised that “regularisation does not automatically mean professionalisation,” calling for urgent state-funded training and competency accreditation. By transforming informal work into secure, dignified roles, the sector hopes to eliminate waiting lists and ensure the long-term stability of essential services. If managed with rigorous professional standards, the programme could provide a structural solution to Spain’s twin challenges of migration integration and a growing dependency crisis.

Lunar adventure hotel

SPAIN could soon host the world’s largest spherical building: a $5 billion megaproject dubbed ‘Moon’. Developed by Canadian firm Moon World Resorts, the ambitious resort aims to replicate the lunar surface, bringing space tourism to Earth.

The centrepiece is a massive 312-metre-high sphere - nearly double the diameter of the Las Vegas Sphere. The structure will house a 4,000-room luxury hotel and a hyper-realistic lunar colony on its upper levels.

Spanning 200 hectares, the site features 20 supporting towers, a convention centre, and infrastructure for future flying taxis.

A major draw is the immersive lunar experience. For approximately £350 (€425), visitors can enjoy a 90-minute tour of the simulated Moon surface, designed to mimic lower gravity. Developers believe the site could attract 10 million annual guests and serve as a training ground for space agencies.

Spain is one of 10 can-

didate nations, alongside the UAE and China. While the project remains conceptual, co-founder Michael R Henderson reports strong interest from private investors. Funding will be driven by the sale of 10,000 luxury residential units integrated into the complex.

If a host government provides the land and approvals, construction could move quickly. If plans stay on track, the first Moon resort is expected to open by May 1, 2030.

F1 returns to Madrid

FORMULA 1 is set to return to Madrid for the rst time since 1981, with organisers con rming strong early demand for the Spanish Grand Prix scheduled for September this year. Around 80,000 tickets have already been sold, signalling signicant interest in the event, which will take place on a new urban-style circuit known as Madring near the IFEMA exhibition centre and Valdebebas.

Construction of the temporary circuit is currently underway, with organisers stating that works remain on schedule and are expected to be completed by the end of May. This timeline allows for homologation and safety checks required before the race weekend. The circuit will combine existing roads with purpose-built sections, avoiding the need for a permanent

racetrack outside the city.

The Madrid Grand Prix will be held from September 11-13 and will initially coexist with the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix under a long-term agreement. Ticket prices have been released across multiple categories, ranging from general admission passes starting at around €195 to premium hospitality packages exceeding €5,000.

Madrid last hosted Formula 1 at the Jarama circuit in 1981, making the sport’s return after more than four decades a signi cant moment for Spanish motorsport. Organisers expect the event to attract large numbers of international visitors and deliver economic bene ts through tourism, hospitality and global media exposure.

Heineken makes history

HEINEKEN has become the rst major brewer in Spain to produce all its beer using 100 per cent renewable energy, marking a signicant milestone in the country’s sustainability e orts.

The company announced that its four Spanish breweries - located in Sevilla, Madrid, Valencia and Jaen - are now powered entirely by renewable electricity. The move is part of Heineken’s wider strategy to reach net zero carbon emissions across production by 2030 in Europe.

To achieve this, Heineken has invested heavily in solar installations, biomass boilers and long-term renewable electricity agreements. Its Sevilla brewery, for example, uses solar thermal energy, while other sites rely on green electricity sourced from wind and solar farms.

Spain, with its strong solar capacity and growing renewable infrastructure, has played a key role in enabling the transition. The

company says the shift will signi cantly reduce carbon emissions linked to brewing operations.

Heineken España’s leadership described the move as a major step towards decarbonising the industry and supporting Spain’s clean energy ambitions.

The announcement comes amid increasing pressure on global brands to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their environmental footprint. By switching fully to renewable energy in Spain, Heineken positions itself at the forefront of sustainable brewing in Europe.

The company says the focus now turns to further reducing emissions across its supply chain and distribution networks.

Madrid tops Europe

MADRID has been named Europe’s Best Destination for 2026, attracting more than 1.3 million votes from international travellers. The Spanish capital secured 127,438 votes, outpacing Nicosia, Verona, and Paris to claim the top spot. The accolade was awarded by European Best Destinations, an organisation based in Brussels that promotes travel across the continent in collaboration with more than 300 tourism offices and the EDEN network of sustainable destinations. Candidate destinations were selected through data analysis, including Eurostat figures, online search trends, social media growth, and glo-

Costa living crisis?

and a dynamic food scene. The city’s approach reflects a new urban model: human, cosmopolitan and approachable.

SPAIN’S reputation as an affordable sun-seeker’s paradise is facing a reality check. The 2026 Consumer Spending Report by Roams reveals that essential costs now consume nearly 70 per cent of the average household income, driven by stagnating salaries and rising prices.

Housing remains the primary financial burden. On January 1, 2026, data indicated that renters pay an average of €12,044 annually, roughly 66 per cent of essential outgoings.

In high-demand places like Barcelona, Malaga, and the Balearic Islands, essential costs can exceed 90 per cent of a couple’s net salary.

Conversely, inland regions offer relief; annual expenditure in Extremadura remains approximately 16 per cent below the natio-

nal average.

Groceries form the second-largest expense, averaging €4,097 per year. Energy costs have also climbed, with households spending more than €1,200 annually on electricity and gas, a €133 increase from previous years. Poor insulation in older properties often exacerbates these bills during winter. Fixed costs, including water and local taxes (IBI), average around €700 annually, though regional variations are stark. While Spain remains attractive compared to its Northern European neighbours, the 2026 data confirms a tightening squeeze.

For expats, the ‘Spanish dream’ is still achievable, but success now relies heavily on choosing a location wisely and adopting local spending habits to maintain financial breathing room.

Double standards

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

IN the far reaches of my old songwriter memory I can still remember a time when songs were actually allowed to be dangerous. Not politically, not socially - just creatively. They told stories, invented characters, and occasionally had the nerve to assume the listener possessed a sense of humour and a working brain. Today, that level of trust feels wildly optimistic.

Take Lily the Pink, a gloriously daft piece of exaggeration, written purely to amuse. No disclaimers, no guidance notes, and certainly no apology. It relied on the listener recognising nonsense when they heard it, a skill now treated as borderline reckless. Delilah, based on a story in the public domain for years (Bizet’s Carmen) now banned from the airwaves and terraces. Maxwell’s Silver Hammer. A cheerful melody paired with a dark little story. The contrast was the joke. You weren’t being asked to approve of Maxwell, merely to enjoy the cleverness of the

writing. Today, one suspects the song would be delayed pending meetings, memos, and a request to ‘reconsider the tone’.

Even something as harmless as Ernie (The Fastest Milkman in the West, would struggle. A comic narrative, a villain, a punchline - all delivered without once checking whether anyone might take offence at milk, horses, or speed. In modern terms, it’s practically revolutionary.

Songwriters once trusted the listeners to understand irony, exaggeration, and character. Now, too many lyrics sound as though they’ve been written with one eye on the rhyme and the other on an imaginary complaints department. Edges are filed off. Mischief is discouraged. Anything risky is quietly removed until the song offends no one, and interests no one either. And yet, here’s the curious part. While gentle humour, narrative songs, and playful storytelling are scrutinised to within an inch of their lives, there is a notable exception to all this caution: Rap ‘music’.

Lyrics containing levels of aggression, obscenity and casual vulgarity;

content that would have older songwriters escorted from the building somehow pass through untouched, celebrated even, while far milder material from other genres is treated as dangerous territory. One set of rules appears to apply to everyone, except when it doesn’t.

The result is a cultural double standard where context, intent, and humour are ignored in favour of selective outrage. Satire is suspect. Storytelling is risky. But explicit material, provided it arrives under the right label, is waved through without comment. The irony is that the songs people still remember are the very ones that weren’t cautious. Music used to reflect life as it was lived, not as it was approved. When songs stop being allowed to surprise us, provoke us, or even mildly irritate us, they don’t become kinder. They become forgettable, and that, surely, is the one thing music should never be I dunno, Sometimes I think I could be losing the plot altogether. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Casa Andalucia near Huercal-Overa

NEW & EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES - A spacious, beautifully renovated, full of character, two storey, end village house with three double bedrooms, three bathrooms and large sun terrace in the whitewashed village of Taberno. Walking distance to shops, bar / restaurants, doctors, chemist, school, small Friday street market etc.

Five mins drive to Santo Petar village with two bar / restaurants, 15 mins drive to Huercal-Overa and Albox towns, 45 mins drive to the coast at San Juan or Mojacar. Casa Andalucia is a very attractive property with so much character including wooden beamed ceilings, rustic floor tiles, traditional window grills and also has the benefits of modern living. It makes an ideal full time residence or lock up and leave holiday home and enables you to become part of the Spanish community.

The traditional wooden front door leads into the welcoming reception hallway. Either side are two charming double ensuite bedrooms with walk-in showers. Next is the downstairs open plan living room / dining with super efficient pellet burning fire. From the living room a door leads out to a small internal courtyard and storage room for tools etc. To the rear of the house is another outside storage area which is great for storing push bikes etc. Also at the rear

Hacked hotels

SPANISH police have arrested a 20-year-old man for a sophisticated cyber scam that allowed him to book luxury hotel rooms for just one cent per night. This case marks the first known instance of a criminal manipulating an online hotel payment validation system in this manner.

The Spanish national allegedly defrauded at least one high-end Madrid hotel of more than €20,000. Officers detained the suspect on Wednesday, February 18, while he was mid-stay in a suite valued at €4,000.

The scam involved a targeted cyberattack on an electronic payment platform. By altering the validation process, the suspect ensured transactions appeared fully authorised to hotel reception staff, despite only a fraction of the cost being charged. Rooms costing €1,000 per night were secured for almost nothing. The discrepancy was only discovered days later when the payment processor transferred the actual funds to the hotel.

Investigators flagged the suspicious activity earlier this month and tracked the man using the identity provided during his reservations.

Beyond the room costs, the suspect reportedly incurred further losses for the hotels by leaving minibar and service bills unpaid.

is a communal parking area plus there is plenty of closeby parking within the village approx 50 metres from the house. Also from the living room a stone clad archway takes you in to the large Andalucian style fitted kitchen. An extra feature is the cave storage room / larder. From the kitchen, stairs lead up to a lobby room with large fitted cupboards. This room acts as a dressing room for the upstairs third double bedroom but could also make a great study area. The

third bedroom has H&C air con and a ceiling fan. Next is a recently refurbished bathroom with bath and separate walk in shower. Also upstairs is the second open plan living room / dining room with another pellet burning fire, plus log burning fire if you prefer. There are also double doors leading out to the spacious sun terrace with outdoor mini kitchen and part covered seating areas, Here you can enjoy the sunshine and overlook the village life.

For more information on VH2705 and to arrange a viewing or a meeting in our offices please contact Voss Homes on 0034 950 616 827 or email us on enquiries@vosshomesspain.com

Blush Brasserie RESTAURANT REVIEW

SITUATED in Plaza Nueva, Blush Brasserie offers a hearty meal, made all the better by the warm and inviting atmosphere they have so successfully cultivated.

Blush has a spacious outdoors seating area overlooking the Monumento de Arreiero, an iconic Albox attraction. I imagine this would be a lovely place to sit and people watch on a sunny day, while sipping a coffee or stopping for a bite of lunch.

Inside was just as relaxed. A cosy colour scheme of cream and browns makes the place feel intimate but not claustrophobic.

With menu items inspired by Spanish, French and Asian flavours, you can travel the world without moving from your (very comfortable) seat. For my

main meal I tried the Grilled Tiger Prawns, which were an absolute delight.

I truly believe you can tell a lot about an establishment based on one simple staple: the chips. Perfectly cooked chips are surprisingly hard to find, yet Blush Brassiere accomplished the feat. Not

too soggy, not too dry, the chips that accompanied my prawns were perfectly crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside and still piping hot, just how I like.

Blush can be found at Plaza Nueva, 8, Albox.

To reserve a table, call 950 562 887 or visit blushalbox.com.

Diva night

HARLEYS Bar and Restaurant in Arboleas is set to host an exciting celebration for International Women’s Day with a special Diva Night on Saturday, March 7.

Guests can look forward to an uplifting evening featuring three live acts, including Sharon Regan, Rebs on the Rocks and Marilyn Shipley. Each performer brings their own distinctive sound and style to the stage to create a lively and memorable atmosphere.

Alongside the music, those in attendance can take part in a raffle, where a first-place prize of €100 is up for grabs. Music and major prizes ensure an exciting night for all.

Diva Night will take place at Harleys Bar and Restaurant, located at Poligono Industrial Sur, Arboleas. Doors open from 6.00pm and live entertainment begins at 7.00pm.

Advance tickets are priced at €10 and are available

directly from Harleys Restaurant or the Age Support shop in Albox. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Age Support Almanzora, helping fund vital community support for older residents across the region.

With great entertainment, delicious food and drink available, and a strong charitable mission, Diva Night promises to be a fun and entertaining evening in honour of International Women’s Day.

HOLD a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of wine in the other at

The Palette Studio’s sip and paint class. On Friday, February 27 The Palette Studio is offering a chance to get a little bit tipsy and create a stunning portrait inspired by the iconic ‘Frida Love’.

While a professional artist will be on hand to guide the class step-bystep, The Palette Studio believes art has no boundaries. Participants are encouraged to let their creativity flow.

ALMERIA Paint and sip

After a few glasses of wine, they’ll all look like masterpieces.

No previous painting or drawing experience is necessary and The Palette Studio will provide all the necessary materials. The only thing participants need to do is paint, drink and enjoy.

Tickets for the Sip and Paint cost €35, which includes the materials, expert guidance and the canvas that each participant gets to keep.

Ulysses Quartet

TWO exceptional musical evenings will be arriving at the Auditorio de Vera in March, kicking off the 2026 International Chamber Music Cycle. This series of concerts invite audiences to experience the refined intimacy of chamber music and the passionate energy of flamenco performance in an inviting cultural setting.

The series begins on Sunday, March 1 at 7.00pm with the Ulysses Quartet, an international ensemble whose members come from all over the world. Known for their precise movements and expressive balance, the string quarter offers a programme that reflects the depth and subtle chemistry that defines great chamber music.

Drinks are not included in the price. Taking place at the Delfos del Faz lounge bar in Mojacar, there will be plenty of delicious beverages available to order.

The Sip and Paint begins at 2.00pm, however organisers recommend arriving 10 minutes before to get situated.

To reserve a spot, contact 634 319 256 or book online at www. thepalettestudio.com.

Their opening night performance promises audiences an elegant, nuanced programme of the highest calibre.

Later in the month, on Sunday, March 22, the spotlight switches from the string quartet to Spanish tradition with Cristina Aguilera’s

an immersive atmosphere shaped by rhythm, movement and Andalucian heritage. The trio’s artistry captures the essence of flamenco’s expressive power, inviting audiences to feel the music as much as hear it.

Together, these March concerts offer residents and visitors in Vera a chance to enjoy world class live performances.

Spain’s exports celebrate

SPAIN’S olive oil and wine exporters welcomed a ruling by the US Supreme Court invalidating tari s imposed under President Donald Trump. The 15 per cent tari s, introduced in 2025, had targeted EU products, including Spain’s olive oil and bottled wine, causing export revenue to the US to drop 8 per cent to €16.7 billion. The court ruled the executive branch overstepped its authority, relying improperly on emergency trade prerogatives.

Spain’s olive oil sector alone exceeds €1 billion in annual US sales, with wine adding hundreds of millions more, making the ruling critical for market access and competitiveness. Industry groups expressed cautious optimism, signalling potential recovery and exa-

mining reimbursement options for previously paid duties. While the decision reduces immediate barriers, o cials warn Trump administration’s prior anticipation of such outcomes could prompt alternative levy methods. The ruling has broader implications for US trade law, restricting executive powers, and in uencing EU-US commercial relations. The European Commission urged clarity on future tari s, emphasising predictability and market stability, while the International Chamber of Commerce noted lingering uncertainty. For Spanish exporters, it o ers an opportunity to restore market con dence, strengthen trade relationships, and pursue long-term growth in the US.

Gaudí mystery solved

FRESH research has concluded that the Xalet del Catllaràs in La Pobla de Lillet was designed by Antoni Gaudí, settling a long-running question over the mountain lodge’s origins.

The study, commissioned from architect Galdric Santana, director of the Gaudí Chair at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia and current commissioner of the Gaudí Year, states that the project bears the unmistakable methodology and technical signatures of the Catalan architect.

According to the report, Gaudí authored the design but did not oversee construction. Nor did he publicly claim the work, as the building was not executed in line with his original plans.

Detailed analysis identi es several hallmarks associated with Gaudí, including the geometry of the main arch and the use of a cloister-style corner vault,

now lost. Internal access points arranged at 45-degree angles, a feature also present in Torre Bellesguard, further reinforce the attribution.

However, the structure was later executed and modi ed by third parties, with Gaudí collaborator Juli Batllevell potentially responsible for carrying out the build. Over time, further alterations changed the

TOPTrending

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast

building’s original structural intent.

The project dates from between 1901 and 1908, during the construction of the Asland factory and while Gaudí was engaged on commissions for Eusebi Güell.

The ndings arrive during the o cial Gaudí Year 2026, marking the centenary of the architect’s death.

FROM the creator of the sensational comedy Derry Girls, comes a brand new witty and emotional story. How to Get to Heaven from Belfast follows childhood friends who reunite at a funeral. Once a quartet, now a trio, the childhood friends suspect foul play and embark on a journey to solve the case.

At once heart-breaking and belly-achingly funny, the limited series explores friendship, womanhood and the existential passing of time.

56 Days

56 DAYS spans, as you might guess, 56 days. However, that’s where the predictability starts and ends. Prime Video’s newest psychological thriller follows a young couple, Clara and Oliver, from their first chance encounter to when it all goes disastrously wrong.

From the very first scene, audiences are left guessing, as we’re first introduced, not to the besotted couple, but a corpse decaying in a bathtub.

The series spends its following episodes retracing the couple’s steps, showing how one lie spirals into another until there’s no coming back.

Eggs-tra salty Easter treat

A SPANISH crisp company has unveiled a bold Easter treat: a hollow chocolate egg filled with potato crisps. The creation comes from Torres, the Catalonia-based gourmet brand known for flavours such as black truffle and Iberian ham.

Previously famous for unusual releases like fried-egg flavoured crisps, Torres is now blending sweet and savoury in a limited-edition offering.

Hidden winter rituals

Divisive crisp-filled egg.

Unlike traditional British Easter eggs, Spain’s celebrations feature chocolate ‘monas’ and syrup-soaked torrijas, but Torres has tapped into the nation’s love of patatas fritas, pairing them with milk chocolate. The egg is sold at

Credit: Selfridges

Selfridges for £12.99. Reactions are mixed, with some praising its novelty and others criticising the price. Either way, it has sparked debate this Easter.

YOU might think you know Spain through its sunshine and tapas, but the mountains in winter reveal a different world.

Away from the beaches, ancient traditions feature men covered in moss, masked figures with whips, and crowds throwing vegetables at costumed heroes. This lesser-known side of Spain thrives in rural regions like Castilla y Leon, Galicia, and Navarra, where communities celebrate festivals rooted in pagan beliefs and medieval customs. These rituals were originally designed to drive away evil spirits or protect livestock, and they remain vital parts of local identity today.

One striking example is the Jarramplas in Extremadura, where a volunteer in armoured clothing is pelted with turnips by the village, a role so prestigious that the waiting list spans years. In Avila, characters like the Ha-

rramachos wear eerie costumes of moss and animal horns to perform purification rites. Further north, the Peliqueiros of Laza patrol streets with masks and whips during carnival to enforce a ritualistic order. In the valleys of Navarra, the Zanpantzar procession uses massive bells and sheepskins to symbolically awaken nature

from its winter slumber. While many European customs have faded, Spain’s fierce regional pride has preserved these unique ceremonies. For travellers willing to venture beyond the big cities, these vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful traditions offer a glimpse into a side of the country most tourists never see.

Airlines reject fee hike

MAJOR carriers and industry bodies have launched a fierce counter-offensive against plans to increase airport charges in Spain, warning that the move will inevitably drive up passenger airfares.

Spain’s airport operator, AENA, has proposed an ave-

rage annual tariff increase of €0.43 per passenger between 2027 and 2031. This 3.8 per cent yearly rise is intended to fund a €13 billion investment in capacity and sustainability. However, the national airline association, ALA, has dismissed the proposal as ‘unjustified’, arguing

instead for a 4.9 per cent annual reduction in fees. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) joined the condemnation on Thursday, February 19. IATA’s Rafael Schvartzman accused AENA of “gaming the regulatory system,” claiming the operator has extracted nearly €400 million in overpayments from airlines and passengers in 2024 alone. Industry experts argue that AENA has consistently underestimated traffic growth to secure excessive regulated returns.

In a sharp contrast to the wider industry gloom, budget giant Ryanair has upgraded its own outlook. On Friday, February 20, the carrier forecasted fare increases of up to 9 per cent for the 2025-26 season, citing robust demand and a surge in passenger numbers toward 208 million. While AENA maintains that its fees remain competitive, airlines warn that any further hikes will stifle economic growth and reduce Spain’s appeal as one of the best travel destinations.

- Advanced orthopaedic care without the long wait

FOR UK expats, accessing orthopaedic care can be complex. Long waiting times, limited access to specialists, age-related prioritisation, and additional costs for rehabilitation or follow-up care often lead patients to delay treatment.

Nordorthopaedics is a leading orthopaedic clinic in Lithuania, trusted by thousands of international patients - particularly from the UK - who seek high-quality treatment without prolonged waiting times. The clinic specialises in hip and knee replacement surgery, joint arthroscopy, and sports injury treatment. Its medical team includes one of the most experienced orthopaedic surgeons in Europe, Prof. Sarunas Tarasevicius, who has performed 7,000+ joint replacement procedures during over 20 years of clinical practice.

Nordorthopaedics is the only clinic in the Baltic states to offer robotic-assisted knee replacement using the ROSA® system. This technology enables precise implant positioning and personalised sur-

English-speaking staff ensure clear communication at every stage.

gical planning, supporting improved joint function and potentially faster recovery.

Patient experiences reflect these outcomes. As Jonathan Edward Page, a UK expat living in Spain, who underwent hip replacement surgery, explains:

“In Spain, I was told I would need an older surgical approach at a much higher

Population cap

WHILE Spain debates how to bring more migrants into the workforce, Switzerland is heading in the opposite direction.

The Alpine nation will vote this summer on whether to cap its population at 10 million people, a proposal that has sparked debate across Europe about migration, housing, and the future of open borders.

The referendum, expected in June, was triggered by the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which argues the country is approaching its limits.

Switzerland currently has around nine million residents, and campaigners warn that continued growth could strain housing, infrastructure, and public services.

Under the proposal, the country would introduce a constitutional ceiling of 10 million inhabitants by 2050, with

Switzerland

automatic restrictions kicking in if the population rises too quickly.

Supporters say the idea is about quality of life rather than ideology.

Switzerland already has one of the highest proportions of foreign residents in Europe, with roughly a quarter of the population born abroad. Advocates claim rising demand is pushing up rents and putting pressure on green spaces. However, the proposal is highly controversial

because Switzerland depends heavily on foreign labour.

Business groups warn that limiting migration could create worker shortages in healthcare and construction.

Meanwhile, Spain faces the opposite challenge; employers in tourism and agriculture continue to report labour shortages, leading the government to explore ways to regularise undocumented migrants to sustain economic growth.

cost. At Nordorthopaedics, I received minimally invasive surgery, excellent aftercare, and a rapid recovery - I was out of crutches by day five. The skill of the team exceeded my expectations.”

Patient safety is central to the clinic’s approach. Rehabilitation begins shortly after surgery during their stay in Lithua-

nia. Each patient receives an individual programme designed by Prof. Laimonas Siupsinskas, an experienced physiotherapist who also works with the Lithuanian Men’s National Basketball Team, helping patients regain strength and confidence before returning home.

Recognising that travelling abroad for surgery can feel overwhelming, Nordorthopaedics provides international patient support from the first enquiry through to return home, including medical coordination, travel arrangements, transportation, and accommodation. English-speaking staff ensure clear communication at every stage.

Nordorthopaedics welcomes patients from the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Canada, the USA, and beyond, many through personal recommendations.

For patients seeking expert orthopaedic treatment, shorter waiting times, and excellent value, Nordorthopaedics offers a dependable path back to mobility.

Amsterdam tops relocation

AMSTERDAM could be the 2026 hotspot for Britons seeking to relocate. According to the 2026 Feather Relocation Index, which ranks cities on factors such as legal ease, job opportunities and social integration, the Dutch capital is the easiest European city for Britons to move to. With a thriving expatriate community and simpler integration than many European peers, it is attracting record numbers of UK nationals.

A key factor is the city’s English fluency, with nearly 90 per cent of residents

speaking the language. This helps British nationals settle and integrate, particularly post-Brexit. Over the past few years, 34 per cent of Amsterdam’s population has been foreign-born.

The job market is strong, with 42 vacancies per 1,000 people. Many international companies, particularly in technology, finance and creative sectors, are headquartered in the city, offering opportunities to foreign workers.

Tourism also drives economic growth, with business and leisure visits

boosting demand.

Amsterdam’s multicultural environment allows expatriates to find their niche, with diverse restaurants, cafés and cultural events contributing to a vibrant melting pot. Visa and residency processes are notably simple, thanks to a digitised, user-friendly system by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service. The application process is straightforward, relatively fast and streamlined, making relocation easier than in many other European cities.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Debt refinanced

MERCADONA’S meat supplier, Incarlopsa, has signed a deal to refinance €357 million of debt, reshaping its financial structure and facilitating Alpha Wave’s exit from the pool of creditors. The agreement allows the Spanish meat producer to stabilise operations, reduce financial pressure and focus on growth and expansion plans.

Creative funds

THE UK government is boosting creative businesses with a £45 million investment via the British Business Bank. Announced at The Big Creative UK Investment Summit, this initiative aims to improve funding access, stimulate innovation, and help creative firms scale, reinforcing the Creative Industries Sector Plan.

WOW expansion

WOW Concept is seeking €20 million in fresh capital to finance expansion and digital growth. The funds will establish a first Barcelona location and expand the online European rollout. Led by former El Corte Ingles chairman, the company closed 2025 with revenue exceeding €25 million, up 35 per cent.

Sales abuse

MEASURES have been imposed against Factor Energia for abusive sales methods. Despite contributing only 1 per cent market share in gas and electricity, 61 per cent of complaints filed with the CNMC are attributed to the company. The CNMC seeks to curb fraudulent contracts and protect consumers from misleading practices.

Netomnia sold

TELEFONICA, alongside Liberty Global and InfraVia Capital Partner, has completed the €2.29 billion purchase of Netomnia. The UK network reaches over 3.4 million homes and will be integrated into Nexifibre, strengthening Telefónica’s UK presence.

STAT OF WEEK

The UK unemployment rate for young people aged 16 to 24 rises to 16.1 per cent, the highest in more than 10 years, according to the ONS.

Wine consumption slows

TWO of Spain’s largest wineries, Codorniu and Bodegas Faustino, are currently up for sale. Despite record profits, potential buyers have been scared off by a significant slump in consumption, leaving the deals to stagnate.

Both Codorniu and Bodegas Faustino were in different stages of the sales process, however both fell victim to the uncertain market around the same time.

In the 2023/2024 fiscal year, Codorniu achieved record profits. Its EBITDA reached €39 million, representing a 15 per cent increase on the previous year. When the Carlyle fund announced its intent to sell its 68 per cent stake in the wine company following record sales, the move was met with great anticipation. However, the sale is still languishing in corporate purgatory.

The Carlyle fund hoped to double their initial 2018 investment of €390

million, and set the asking price to €700 million. Many experts believe they will not secure a satisfactory deal. Even as Codorniu continues to achieve record profits, firms feel uncomfortable investing when the wine market is so unpredictable.

The sale of Bodega Faustino was commissioned more recently. Again, despite achieving its best results in recent history, with almost

Pet expenses deducted

THE Spanish Tax Agency recently announced a €100 tax deduction for pet owners in Andalucia on their 2026 tax returns. Caring for a pet can be costly, with annual expenses adding up to more than €600 per animal. For the first time, pet-owners will be able to deduct 30 per cent of animal expenses, with a maximum limit of €100 per taxpayer per year. Pet owners will be able to claim the deduction during the first year after acquiring the pet. Additionally, in an effort to promote responsible ownership, taxpayers can claim the deduction for the three years following acquisition, if the pet is adopted. Meanwhile, guide dogs and other therapy animals will be eligible for the deduction for the duration of ownership.

Gender pay gap

ACCORDING to TUC, the UK’s gender pay gap will not shrink until 2056. Currently, the discrepancy between men’s and women’s wage is 12.8 per cent (£2,583), although this gap widens depending on the sector. Even in predominantly female industries, including education and social care, the pay gap reaches 17 per cent.

TUC calculated the disparity and discovered women are effectively working for free for 47 days of the year when compared to their male counterparts.

€240 million in sales and €50 million in EBITDA, there has been little interest in acquisition.

Wine consumption worldwide is slowing year-on-year. A significant decline in viable vineyards is also exasperating the problem. In Spain, vineyards are decreasing by 1.5 per cent annually, while in France, the government plans to uproot 32,500 hectares.

All animals must be microchipped and registered in the Andalucian Animal Identification Registry, with the taxpayer’s name on record. Invoices are essential for supporting claims.

Naturgy profits rise

DESPITE difficulties in the market, Naturgy surpassed its own forecasts, ending the 2025 fiscal year with a net profit of €2.023 billion. This is 6.4 per cent higher than their 2024 €1.901 billion profit. Profits can be attributed to higher average gas and electricity prices, as electricity distribution rose in Spain by 1.5 per cent.

Looking ahead to 2026, Naturgy expects lower gains, predicting a minimum profit of €1.9 billion.

Gambling crisis

THE UK gambling market is in serious danger, as a proposed rise in licence fees puts profits at risk.

A near 30 per cent increase in Gambling Commission licence fees from 2026 was proposed to protect against funding shortages and reinforce security against illegal operators. However, the proposal couldn’t have come at a worse time.

Operators have already been hit with a tax hike as, beginning in April 2026, the remote gaming duty will rise from 21 per cent to 40 per cent. Many worry these rising costs will make operators look elsewhere, leaving the UK market cleaned out.

Spain Grows

AS housing prices are predicted to rise by 7 per cent in 2026, the Spanish government is launching ‘Spain Grows’, a campaign to help provide more affordable housing.

The current problem facing Spain’s property market is a steep imbalance between supply and demand. Industry experts estimate the housing deficit to be approximately 700,000 properties. Continuing at this rate, the deficit will exceed two million by 2036.

To combat the crisis, Spain Grows will offer developers a 30 per cent discount, giving them more capital with which to finance projects. The hope is this will create 15,000 affordable rentals each year.

THREE companies - FCC, OHJLA and Sando - are expected to submit bids to build a new Army Logistics Base in Cordoba. As one of Spain’s major defence projects, the first phase of the project has been allocated a €395 million budget. The winning firm will oversee the construction of the base, along with other necessary facilities and urbanisation. Interested parties have until March 12 to submit their bids, with construction scheduled to begin on April 1.

BANCO SANTANDER has launched a new package, offering preferential banking products and premium services. The initiative includes fee-free current accounts, salary advances and a personal loan at 5.5 per cent interest with repayment terms every seven years. Only a select group of working professionals are eligible, including those in civil service, healthcare and education to name a few. Additionally, advisory support, travel services and well-being benefits are offered as an extra perk to strengthen customer loyalty.

3.617,0 3.680,0 3.562,0 4,45M

378,40 384,20 378,00 2,95M

1.219,00 1.227,00 1.216,00 11,67M

4.354,0 4.362,0 4.272,0 219,52K

467,60 477,95 466,95 31,06M

American Tobacco 4.569,0 4.598,0 4.480,0 5,4M

203,10 203,90 201,70 10,37M

2.134,0 2.152,0 2.118,0 1,12M

188,25 192,60 185,90 18,22M

HBC

4.774,0 4.796,0 4.700,0 865,06K

2.213,00 2.232,00 2.194,00 6,96M

5.180,0 5.215,0 5.125,0 484,11K

1.851,0 1.861,0 1.794,5 6,95M

5.635,00 5.680,00 5.610,00 334,72K

473,90 477,10 470,80 3,06M

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706,00 725,50 706,00 144,64K

3.854,00 3.982,00 3.802,00 1,47M

3.934,0 3.976,0 3.906,0 763,63K

1.467,00 1.441,00 812,11K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Lower bills

HOUSEHOLD energy bills in Britain are expected to drop by approximately £117 a year from April 2026 after the government moved green subsidy costs into general taxation. Analysts forecast the price cap for a typical dual-fuel home will fall to £1,641. Despite relief, bills remain roughly one-third higher than before the Ukraine-triggered energy crisis.

VW cuts

WITH China strengthening its hold on the market, Volkswagen is cutting 20 per cent of costs by 2028 in order to keep up. Cutting 35,000 employees from its workforce will save the company €1.5 billion a year. High costs, low sales mean the car manufacturers have no choice but to reshape their business plan.

€10,000 cash cap

MORE than half of the purchases in Spain are made using physical cash. Consumers over the age of 50 are particularly more likely to pay with cash rather than card, according to a study by the Bank of Spain, preferring in person shopping to online transactions.

Cash payments make people feel like they have more control over their spending habits, however there are certain limitations. In Spain, cash payments to a business

Hosting incentives

IN preparation for millions to travel to the 2026 World Cup, Airbnb is offering a $750 incentive (€635) to new hosts in North American cities. FIFA received 500 million ticket requests for the World Cup. Beyond those in the three host countries, a large portion of applicants were from Europe and South America, signifying a significant

influx of international tourists, all of whom will need a place to stay. Airbnb predicts hosts across the USA, Canada and Mexico can earn upwards of $5,000 (€4,222) per stay. High demand for accommodation will provide a much-needed boost to the US tourist industry, but leave international fans paying over the odds.

cannot exceed €1,000, a measure that was implemented to prevent tax fraud.

Now, the EU is looking to implement a similar system, limiting cash payment to €10,000. The proposed regulation would serve to limit money laundering or the financing of terrorism and organised crime. The €10,000 cash cap is expected to begin in a provisional capacity on July 10, 2027.

While each member of the EU will have control over imposing stricter restrictions, they will not be able to set a higher amount as the EU looks to create a unified standard. With Spain already having a €1,000 limit, many won’t feel the effects until they travel.

Importantly, the imposed limit will not affect cash transactions between individuals in a non-business capacity.

Missile development

THE UK government has awarded a £12 million contract to accelerate hypersonic missile development, strengthening sovereign capability. The move supports the largest sustained defence spending increase since the Cold War, reaching 2.6 per cent of GDP from 2027. Engineering firms will design and test systems, boosting national security and NATO deterrence.

Driver shortage

FOOD delivery platforms are losing 7 per cent of restaurant business due to a rider shortage, a stark contrast with the 4 per cent growth in other European countries. The scarcity is disrupting service and affecting restaurants’ bottom line, with some experiencing a 20 per cent drop in sales.

It covers everythingexcept the stuff that actually happens

WHEN the illusion meets reality (insurance companies, that is)

Just recently, a friend of mine went through exactly the same situation.

Unfortunately, the honeymoon was long over.

After more than a year with her policy, she finally needed coverage.

She was absolutely certain her once-reliable insurance company would provide the much-needed care.

And voilà.

Six months later, they are still requesting reports. Reports, and more reports.

At this point, my friend has practically earned an honorary medical degree from all the terminology she has had to learn - while she continues to endure excruciating pain in her hips.

Yes. The lesson repeats itself. Once again.

It covers everything - except what happens to you.

And those loopholes - microscopic escape routes through which they slither with the most ridiculous excuses imaginable. My friend has been in pain for almost six months, and not a single person at the insurance company has shown even a trace of empathy.

This is private insurance. Paid yearly. In advance.

Part II

And still, the charming insurance whisperers will gently remind you:

“It covers everything… except that.”

It has happened to me many times. Recently, too.

“Oh, you should have read the 400 pages of ultra-thin fine print. Very clearly specified. That particular condition is not covered.”

I mean - it does cover everything.

Just not that.

And I cannot help but think of the people affected by severe storms. Families facing real devastation. Will they be covered? Or will they discover, in the midst of tragedy, that it covers everything… except what actually happened?

Hopefully not.

Hopefully they receive the support and resources they need to recover.

But experience has taught many of us to brace ourselves.

Because somewhere, in ultra-thin ink, there is always a clause waiting.

Yes. We sustain the insurance business.

All those mega, unsustainable networks that keep raiding fares.

While agents on the phone behave disdainfully, as if they were about to inherit the company.

And the fares keep rising.

And our patience grows thin.

No, my darlings!

Treat us with respect.

Do your jobs with integrity.

Stuck on the ground

AROUND 500 passengers were forced to spend a night trapped on grounded aircraft at Munich Airport after heavy snowfall triggered travel chaos on Wednesday, February 19.

The ordeal a ected ve ights operated by Lufthansa and Air Dolomiti, including routes to Singapore, Copenhagen, and Venice. Despite boarding on Wednesday evening, the aircraft were unable to depart due to a combination of runway closures, de-icing delays, and the airport’s strict night- ight curfew.

The situation escalated when passengers found they could not return to the terminal. Airport o cials con rmed that all terminal-adjacent gates were occupied, and a shortage of ground sta and buses meant travellers could not be safely ferried from remote parking stands.

On one Lufthansa ight to Copenhagen, 123 passengers remained con ned to the cabin from 9.30pm until the following morning. Reports emerged of families with children endure the night without pillows, blankets, or hot food. Supplies were limited to a few bottles of water while the plane sat on the freezing apron.

Buses nally arrived on Thursday, February 20, to transport the exhausted travellers back to the terminal for rebooking. Both Lufthansa and Munich Airport expressed regret, citing “extreme weather-related irregularities.” However, the incident has sparked erce criticism regarding ground-handling resources and passenger welfare. A ected travellers may now be eligible for compensation under EU aviation regulations.

Raise the flood gates

VENICE’S MOSE flood barrier system has faced an unprecedented test this winter, activating 30 times in just 23 days. From Wednesday, January 28 to Thursday, February 19, the mobile dams protected the historic city from a relentless series of high tides, incurring operational costs of approximately €6 million.

Experts at Venice’s Tide Monitoring Centre described the period as ‘absolutely exceptional.’ While no single tide reached extreme levels, the frequency of the surges, driven by polar vortex anomalies, meant the city would have faced near-constant flooding without intervention.

Alvise Papa, head of the centre, warned that while the €6.5 billion infrastructure saved the city from being ‘on its knees’, the long-term

outlook is sobering. Due to rising sea levels, the average annual sea level has jumped from 24cm to 68cm.

“In about 30 years, we may need to raise the MOSE every day,” Papa stated, urging policymakers to seek further adaptive solutions.

The 78 movable gates have successfully mitigated damage, but the economic toll is ri-

sing. Each activation costs the port community roughly €200,000. While winter closures have limited ecological impact on the lagoon’s biology, the maritime sector faces significant logistical hurdles. This recent surge confirms the barrier’s vital role in Venice’s survival while highlighting the accelerating challenges posed by the climate crisis.

Valencia: Where history sizzles like a paella!

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

nand and Isabella, even boasting Spain’s first printing press. Today, its cathedral, La Seo, showcases a mix of styles and Goya paintings, while the ancient Water Court still doles out irrigation justice every Thursday - orally in the Valencian dialect of Catalan!

EU Digital ID Wallet

AH, Valencia - not just a city, but a tapas platter of history, culture and mildly alarming papier-mâché giants set on fire! Nestled where the Turia River meets up with the Mediterranean, it’s Spain’s third-largest city and a capital three times over - region, province and former kingdom.

The Romans kicked things off in 138 BCE, when Decimus Junius Brutus (a name only a Roman could love) settled some war-weary soldiers here.

Fast forward through a parade of Visigoths, Moors, El Cid (Spain’s answer to King Arthur) and finally James I of Aragon, who took it in 1238 but kindly let it keep its own laws - like a rebellious teenager with a royal curfew.

Valencia flourished under Ferdi -

From the Gothic splendour of La Lonja de la Seda to the futuristic flair of Calatrava’s City of Arts and Sciences, the city blends old and new like the perfect sangria.

And then, of course, there’s the annual Fallas Festival - involving bonfires, satire and towering effigies that wouldn’t look out of place in a bad dream! Valencia - where the past dazzles, and the statues burn spectacularly. So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring!

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

The EU is rolling out a digital identity wallet that could let residents prove who they are across multiple countries using a single app.

THE days of carrying a physical wallet stuffed with plastic cards and paper documents may soon be over. By 2026, the European Union plans to digitise identity for millions of residents through the EU Digital Identity Wallet, a mobile-based system designed to streamline life, travel, and bureaucracy across the bloc.

Backed by legislation adopted in 2024, the initiative allows citizens to store verified versions of national IDs, driving licences, and diplomas on their smartphones. This digital tool will be legally recognised for both online and in-person verification. Whether you are opening a bank account in a new country or checking into a hotel, the wallet aims to eliminate the need for repetitive paperwork.

INTERVIEW

For expats and frequent travellers, the shift is a potential game-changer. The system is designed for full interoperability; a digital ID issued in Spain must be accepted in every other member state. This could drastically simplify tasks like renting an apartment or registering with local authorities abroad, reducing the friction of moving across borders.

Addressing surveillance concerns, the European Commission emphasises that users will retain control, choosing exactly which data points to share.

While the framework is already in force, member states have until late 2026 to provide at least one official wallet app to their citizens.

Speaking European

Leaving it all behind

More than three decades ago, Margarita Behrendt left Germany amid a stressful divorce and moved to southern Spain seeking peace and stability. Originally from the Lake Constance region in Austria, she arrived with her seven-year-old son and settled in Vejer de la Frontera, a white hilltop town that would become her permanent home.

ALTHOUGH emotionally relieved, her early years were challenging, particularly due to the language barrier. She spoke no Spanish and initially relied on her young son, who quickly became fluent through school, to help translate. Over time, Margarita adap ted, learned the language and built an independent life.

Over time, Margarita adapted, learned the language and built an independent life.

Professionally, she established herself in Spain’s property and hospitality sectors. She ran an estate agency for 11 years before moving into hotel project management, later working in boutique and five-star hotels. Her career eventually culminated in a

role as hotel manager, giving her extensive experience across operations and marketing. Today, Margarita describes her life as complete. Her son married a local woman, and she now has a granddaughter growing up in Spain. Reflecting on her experience, she advises others considering a move abroad to spend extended time in different locations before committing. What began as an escape during a difficult chapter became a lifelong transformation, rooted in community, work and a sense of belonging that has lasted more than 30 years.

Sleep armour trends

THE quest for a perfect night’s rest has evolved into a high-tech arms race. Desperate to reclaim eight hours of uninterrupted slumber, people are increasingly investing in a suite of products known as sleep hygiene ‘armour’. No longer content with a simple glass of warm milk, consumers are turning to extreme gear to block out the modern world.

The trend spans from the bizarre to the bespoke. Many have adopted mouth taping, using surgical-grade tape to force nasal breathing, while others swear by weighted eye masks designed to apply calming pressure to the face.

Perhaps the most significant investment is the ‘chilly pad’ - an advanced mattress topper that circulates water to maintain a surface temperature of exactly 18°C, cited by experts as the biolo-

gical sweet spot for deep sleep.

Even skincare has joined the defensive line with stiff, adhesive patches that physically prevent the facial muscles from furrowing during the night to combat stress-induced wrinkles. While critics label these gadgets as ‘sleep hypochondria’, proponents argue they are ne-

cessary defences against blue light and urban noise. As our lives become more caffeinated and screen-reliant, the bedroom has been transformed into a laboratory. For those tired of tossing and turning, this expensive armour offers more than just comfort; it provides a sense of control in an increasingly restless age.

When the sun returns, life wakes up again

MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE EXPERT MIGUEL FRANCO

YOU can feel it now, almost every day. Temperatures rise, skies turn blue again and when the sun touches your skin it already carries that familiar warmth, the promise of the months ahead. Along the coast, more visitors arrive, all searching for that first taste of summer: sitting outside, slowing down, enjoying life in the open air. They come for the weather but what many are really drawn to is how life feels here. Because when the sun returns in the Mediterranean, life doesn’t just get warmer. It opens.

People walk more. Meals stretch longer. Evenings slow down. Movement becomes natural again and not something scheduled, but something lived. And when you experience this rhythm, you notice a shift: more energy, lighter mood, calmer mind.

This is the Mediterranean way, fresh food, daily movement, daylight and connection. And the important part is this: you don’t need to live in Spain to live this way. The Mediterranean lifestyle is not a place. It’s a rhythm you can create anywhere. When you align your days with light, movement and shared moments, life simply feels better.

To read the full article and explore Mediterranean lifestyle guidance, visit www.casamiguel.life

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Chinese New Year

ON Sunday, February 22, Benalmadena hosted a lively Chinese New Year celebration, drawing Chinese residents from across the Malaga region and turning the Costa del Sol town into a riot of colour.

Organised by the Asociación de Chinos Unidos de la Península Ibérica with support from Benalmadena Town Hall, the event began at 11.30am with a colourful parade from Plaza Adolfo Suárez to Plaza de la Mezquita. Spectators lined the streets to watch traditional dance performances, while cultural workshops, Chinese cuisine stalls and prize draws kept families entertained.

Benalmadena is one of the most diverse towns on the Costa del Sol, home to residents from over 140 nationalities. Alongside large British, Moroccan and Italian communities, the Chinese population plays a vital role in local commerce and tourism - notably through distinctive Chinese junk boat tours in the marina. The town hall reinforces these ties with free Chinese language classes.

Axarquia

Motorhome solution

VELEZ-MALAGA Council has moved to formalise a dedicated motorhome and caravan service area near the A-7 Mediterranean motorway. The project aims to manage the ‘wandering tourism’ boom that has surged across the Axarquia region since the pandemic.

The proposal was admitted for processing on Monday, February 16, following an order signed by Urban Planning councillor Celestino Rivas. Covering 18,000 square metres in the La Fuente area of Cajiz, the site sits on land currently classified as non-urbanisable. Evaluations are now underway to determine the project’s urban and environmental viability.

The initiative follows years of friction between residents and road tourists, mostly from Northern Europe. Unregulated parking has led to overcrowding, litter accumulation, and illegal waste discharges into local rivers. In 2022, authorities dismantled eight illegal campsites, while protesters in Torrox recently highlighted pollution risks.

Mallorca

Mystery ghost ships

ANOTHER sailboat washed ashore in Mallorca on February 19, grounding near Sa Ferradura on the Alcudia coast after gale force winds dragged the 12 metre vessel across the Bay of Pollensa. This latest incident follows a series of winter groundings, including a 30 metre luxury yacht currently stranded near Son Servera. Local authorities believe the Alcudia sailboat broke free from an illegal mooring, highlighting a growing trend where boats are left improperly secured to avoid rising marina costs.

The environmental group Arrels Marines has urged swift action to prevent the wreck from breaking apart on the seabed. If the owner cannot be identified, the financial burden of removal falls on local taxpayers, with costs estimated at €30,000. This follows a pattern from 2025, when the Pollensa Town Hall spent €50,000 clearing similar wrecks. Beyond the fiscal impact, these ghost ships pose severe ecological risks as fibreglass and fuel residues leak into protected waters.

Costa Blanca South Charity challenge

ELCHE recently hosted the second edition of the Ultrahélike, one of the biggest and most challenging long-distance races of the municipality’s sporting calendar.

The much-anticipated event not only brought together 2,000 participants across its two distances, it also had a strong charitable aspect which saw €5,000 donated to a charity that promotes education for minors in the municipality. The 100-kilometre race took off from Plaza de Baix at 8:00am, whereas the 50-kilometre race took off from 10:00am.

The finish line was located on Paseo de la Estación. Participants had 24 hours to complete the 100-kilometre race and 12 hours for the shorter distance. The race boasted strong participation; in the 100-kilometre race, 80 per cent of those registered were men and 20 per cent women, while in the 50-kilometre race, female participation reached 38 per cent, with 62 per cent men.

Costa Blanca North Oars in action

CALPE basked in clear skies and mild winter sunshine at the weekend as it welcomed the sixth Regatta of the Liga SUMA Banco Fijo 2025-2026 season at the Real Club Náutico Calpe. With temperatures hovering around 15°C and gentle waves rolling across the bay, conditions were ideal for a fiercely competitive morning of rowing.

Clubs from across the Valencian Community gathered on the Costa Blanca for another key fixture in the Liga SUMA calendar. Crews competed in the traditional fixed-seat ‘llaut’ boats, delivering strong performances on open water under bright Mediterranean sunshine.

The slight swell added a technical challenge for rowers but did little to disrupt the smooth running of the event.

Spectators lined the harbour and surrounding coastline, creating a lively atmosphere as races unfolded throughout the morning. The iconic Peñón de Ifach provided a striking natural backdrop to the competition.

Costa Calida

Sporting solidarity

THE Costa Calida hotspot of Cartagena has just celebrated a weekend of inclusive sports with the National Motor Skills Testing Workshop at the city’s Sports Palace. The major event brought together more than 100 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities from across the nation, becoming one of the largest and most important sporting events of the season in the municipality and placing a special focus on unity, community and inclusivity.

Athletes and coaches from Aragon, Asturias, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Catalonia, Madrid, the Valencian Community, and the Region of Murcia attended the National Motor Skills Testing Workshop at the Sports Palace during the weekend. The event included opening and closing ceremonies and a medal presentation.

Sunday also saw the La Huertecica Solidarity Mile take place. The weekend was filled with cultural, leisure and sporting events, with these exciting Motor Skills workshops at the centre of the action.

Need house-sitters for your pets? Try HouseSitMatch

HOUSE-SITTERS do more than care for your home

Did you know that house-sitters will also care for your pets while you are away on holiday? They are registered and checked, and won’t charge you a cent. Instead you will offer free accommodation for free home and pet care. It’s an exchange of services that is like old fashioned barter.

Everyone wins, especially the pets because they get to stay home and their routines are maintained, safe and sound.

Just register as a homeowner and pet owner and build an advert. It’ll take a few minutes.

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1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com as a homeowner

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deo chat with potential housesitters

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worry-free

Real savings, real peace of mind

Every house-sit benefits everyone. Your pets receive one-on-one attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Lucy - she saves over €1,500 annually using house-sitters instead of boarding kennels.

For a small annual registration fee, you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday.

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

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Rules for pets

FROM April 22, travelling with companion animals within the European Union will follow a revised legal framework, applying across all member states, including Spain. The European Commission’s Delegated Regulation updates rules governing non-commercial movements of dogs, cats, ferrets, and certain pet birds, replacing the system established in 2013 and based on the 2016 EU Animal Health Law. Core requirements for identification, vaccination and documentation remain largely unchanged for pets moving between EU states: animals must carry a readable microchip or a pre-2011 tattoo and a valid rabies vaccination. Dogs entering countries free from Echinococcus multilocularis

must continue to receive documented anti-parasitic treatment. Travel is limited to a maximum of five animals per journey, with larger numbers considered commercial. Entry from non-EU countries requires an official health certificate confirming identification, rabies vaccination, anti-parasitic treatment and non-commercial sta-

tus. Pet birds from third countries face a five-bird limit, mandatory individual identification and possible isolation, laboratory testing or a 30-day quarantine to reduce avian influenza risk. While media reports mention compulsory digital preregistration, the regulation itself does not yet mandate it; however, future EU-level systems may require advance notification of travel. For residents and expats in Spain, routine requirements remain familiar, but cross-border travel may involve additional administrative steps once national authorities integrate the updated rules. The changes aim to improve animal welfare, traceability, and combat illegal breeding and trafficking.

CLASSIFIEDS

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)

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 price - cash Tel. 688 335 497 (350573)

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

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 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

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

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 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)

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

LOOKING for motorhome or caravan. Fair price paid in cash. Tel 688 335 497 (350573)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

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 (350290)

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

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,

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 (350449)

Volvo EX30 - Black Edition adds eye-catching new look

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

VOLVO has launched the Black Edi tion variant of its all-electric EX30, boasting an eye-catching new look with design enhancements and available with either single or twin motor versions priced from €45,824/£40,060

The Black Edition styling additions include the pro minent high gloss black 19inch wheels and tinted rear windows. The front grille strikethrough, iron mark, rear Volvo script and model name badge are also adorned in high gloss black, alongside the colour coordinated roof spoiler and door mirror covers.

As one might expect being the Black Edition it is available with one exterior colour - Onyx Black - and one interior colour scheme - Indigo. The high metallic Onyx Black paint sparkles in daylight while the deep blue indigo interior with upcycled denim trim is exclusive to the Black Edition.

Priced from €45,824/£40,060 in

tor Plus trim, the Black Edition comes with Volvo’s advanced sensing technology with up to five radars, five cameras and 12 ultra-sonic sensors continuously monitoring the car’s surroundings to help ‘assist’ the driver.

Other equipment highlights across all Black Edition models include adaptive cruise control, powered tailgate, heated front seats and

mirrors, LED lights and high beam assist, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking assist with rear view camera, wireless phone charging, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, Harman Kardon sound system and a 30cm/12-inch centre screen.

Interestingly, for markets where required, there is provision for alcohol lock software which is something discussed in many EU coun -

tries with certain types of vehicles requiring them and other voluntary use options. It’s something discussed but not required at the moment

With a potential range of up to 474km/295 miles (combined) and the benchmark 100kph/62 mph passed in 5.3 seconds in Single Motor Extended range form, the EX30 comes as standard with a heat pump to maximise ran -

Following the introduction of the Black Edition in 2023 on the XC60, the EX30 becomes the latest model to receive the treatment. The Black Edition is now available across six models: XC90, XC60, XC40, EX40, EC40 and EX30.

The addition of the Black Edition variant adds another level of choice and is available in Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor Performance configurations. The Black Edition will be available on Plus and Ultra trim levels across the Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor Performance Powertrains.

Night walk challenge

THE sixth edition of the IDP event ‘Un Ratito a Pie, Otro Caminando’ is scheduled for the night of Friday March 20, starting at 20.30, with walkers expected to finish around midday on Saturday. Organised by Club Deportivo Almanzora, this event is not a race. It is a shared endurance challenge where participants can test stamina, push limits, and enjoy a group experience.

The gathering begins at the Recinto Ferial de Huercal-Overa, opposite the sports pavilion. Walkers can select from four routes: the 72km Gold, 40km Silver, 21km Bronze, or the Santa Bárbara route, which includes a stop for chocolate and churros. Spaces are limited: 50 for Gold, 30 for Silver, 75 for Bronze, and 55 for Santa Bárbara.

New this year are organised transport options for certain stages, costing €10 per participant. Support vehicles will follow the route to provide assistance and monitor safety. Participants are expected to carry all essential equipment, including suitable footwear for mixed terrain, sports clothing, water, and a backpack with lumbar support. Four refreshment points are positioned along the route, at Kilometres 21, 40, 54, and 72.

The event celebrates endurance, resilience, and teamwork. Completing it is an achievement in itself, and the shared experience makes it unforgettable.

Places are limited, and registration closes on Sunday March 8. Sign up at www.cdalmanzora.es/es/registrations/24008.

Test your limits with the IDP night walk challenge.

Shooting star

THE Almerian athlete Inés Ortega Castro has been welcomed by Antonio Casimiro, councillor for Ciudad Activa, Mobility and Sport, following her recent European Junior Championship success. Ortega claimed gold in the 10m Air Pistol event at the competition in Bulgaria, a feat that has firmly placed her among Spain’s most promising young shooters.

At the ceremony, Casimiro presented Ortega with the flag of Almeria, which she will carry in upcoming competitions. Her next challenge is a tournament in Armenia on Thursday February 26, where she will compete in the absolute category against senior-level athletes.

Ortega has made a strong start to 2026. Between January 14 and 23, she won gold in the absolute category at the ISSF Grand Prix 10m in Ruse, Slovenia, and also secured gold in the junior Ruse Cup. In Munich, Germany, she added two bronze medals in junior events at the HN Cup. Her achievements culminated in the European Junior

Championship gold, demonstrating remarkable consistency on the international stage. Casimiro praised Ortega as “an example of the quality of sport in Almeria, succeeding through talent and dedication, always competing fairly.” Ortega began shooting at the age of eight, training with her parents. She later joined the Joaquín Blume High-Performance Centre in Madrid and now continues her development at the Sant Cugat High-Performance Centre in Barcelona.