Costa de Almeria 6 – 12 November 2025 Issue 2105

Power of giving Festive fair

THE renowned Desert Springs Resort has once again demonstrated its dedication to nurturing the local community along the shining Costa de Almeria, donating a total of €29,000 to support people with disabilities in Cuevas del Almanzora, channeling collective spirit and solidarity into practical help that will be felt well beyond the fairways. The funds - raised by resort members through a year of charity golf, dinners, raffles, auctions and dances - go to AMCAL (the Association for People with Disabilities in Cuevas del Almanzora). €15,000 was donated in May and a further €14,000 has now taken the total to €29,000. AMCAL says the money will improve day-to-day programmes and open doors to activities that many families struggle to afford: cultural outings,

short trips and wider inclusion in education, training and the workplace. These are small moments that add up to dignity and independence, and the association stresses how vital private support is to sustain their mission.

The latest donation was led by Desert Springs’ Club Captain, Sue Garrod, who has become a familiar figure at AMCAL events. Cuevas del Almanzora’s

mayor, Antonio Fernández, publicly thanked resort members for their consistency and generosity, highlighting a partnership that has grown steadily over the years.

For Desert Springs, the charity drive is part of a tradition of linking golf to local good causes - and for an award-winning destination celebrated for sunshine, sport and tourism, its commitment to

social care is warmly received.

What sounds like a number becomes very human in Cuevas: a new adapted activity, a bus seat on a day trip, extra specialist hours for a young person who needs them. AMCAL’s president, Juana Mulero, has underlined the importance of businesses keeping the association ‘present’ in their plans so it can meet its mission. Her message is simple - help us ensure people with disabilities remain fully included in community life - and this donation moves that promise from words to action.

For readers who know Desert Springs for its immaculate greens and desert vistas, this is the other course the resort plays so well: steady, local, handson solidarity that continues to bring real change to families across the Levante Almeriense.

ALBOX has wrapped up one of its most important and anticipated cultural and traditional events: the All Saints’ Fair. For this spectacular celebration, Albox went all-out with its schedules and planned activities.

Albox’s All Saints’ fair kicked off with an Ultraligera concert that delighted the many rockers in town. Local DJs, orchestras, and other singers lit up the crowds with blowout performances and gave the festive fair a backdrop of different genres of music.

Midday fairs were also at the heart of the celebrations in Albox, with many residents very excited to attend local markets and soak up the festive atmosphere. These Midday fairs were one of the highlight events of the autumn season for those in Albox.

Junta’s €430 million plan

THE Junta de Andalucia has unveiled a record €430 million bud get for Almeria in 2026, marking a sharp increase on previous years and continuing a trend that has seen investment rise more than fourfold since 2019.

The funding tar gets key priorities such as water infrastructure (€138 million), health and education (€67 million), and major development projects including the rail integration and intermodal AVE station (€24 million) and the Smart Green Cube innovation hub (€8.5 million) at the PITA technology park.

Water projects dominate this year’s plan, reflecting ongoing concern over Almeria’s vulnerability to drought. New sanitation and supply systems are expected to secure water access across rural and urban areas, benefiting both local residents and the province’s 30,000 British nationals.

Even more personal bests

MOJACAR running group Los Bandidos, fresh off the heels of the final race of the Popular Race Circuit of the Provincial Council of Almeria 2025, has added even more personal bests, awards, and team spirit under their best with two new events held on Sunday, November 2.

The Mojacar athletes competed in the 14th Carrera Saludable in Lorca and the local Mojacar 10k race, showing up with a fantastic participation.

Other allocations cover housing, roads, coastal restoraation and environmental work, with €5 million set aside for the Puerto-Ciudad waterfront project and funds for the long-delayed demolition of the Algarrobico hotel in Carboneras.

Healthcare and education upgrades aim to reduce waiting times and expand capacity in growing coastal towns such as Mojacar, Vera and Roquetas de Mar, while transport improvements are expected to strengthen tourism and mobility. Although past budgets have not always translated into full delivery, this year’s record allocation signals growing regional confidence - and a commitment to shaping a more sustainable, connected and liveable Almeria.

Five members of Los Bandidos took part in the 14th Carrera Saludable in Lorca, a seven-kilometre race held in superb running conditions, according to organisers and a press release by Los Bandidos.

At 10.00 in the morning under cool, clear, and sunny skies, the race was neither too warm nor too cold for the athletes. Out of 421 total fini -

shers, Los Bandidos claimed all spots from first to fifth place in their respective age categories, an impressive feat for the determined and passionate athletes.

On the other hand, 15 Los Bandidos members participated in the Mojacar 10k. However, the name was a bit deceiving: the race actually spanned more than 11 kilometres, consisting of a four-lap course along Mojacar’s idyllic Paseo Mediterráneo.

Among the 66 finishers, Los Bandidos stood out: several members of the well-known running group claimed age-group podiums, continuing the club’s strong season.

Supporting generations Tax relief boost

THOUSANDS of families in Spain are set to benefit after the Tax Agency confirmed a €1,150 income tax deduction for those living with and caring for an elderly relative over 65. Published in the Official State Gazette, the measure supports people who devote time and money to ageing parents or grandparents. It is not a direct payment but a deduction on next year’s income tax return. For households with someone over 75, the deduction can reach €2,550 by adding a €1,400 su pplement for advanced age or dependency.

To qualify, the caregiver must live with a direct ascendant - parent, grandparent or great-grandparent - by blood or adoption. In-laws or other indirect relatives are excluded. The relative must be over 65 or have a recognised disability of at least 33 per cent, and live with the taxpayer for at least half the fiscal year, with some exceptions for those in care homes who remain financially dependent. Income limits apply: the elderly relative must earn under €8,000 annually, excluding tax-exempt income, and must not file their own return with earnings above €1,800. If these conditions are met, the deduction applies in the 2026 tax campaign for the 2025 fiscal year.

Spain’s ageing population is placing pressure on families and public care systems.

Hacienda aims to ease that burden and recognise the unpaid work of family carers.

Eligible taxpayers simply include proof of cohabitation and family relationship in their annual declaration.

Read the full article at: https://tinyurl.com/suppor ting-generations

Smart shopping choices

SPAIN’S consumer organisation OCU has revealed striking differences in everyday shopping costs depending on where households buy. Its annual survey analysed more than 1,100 physical and online stores and found families could save an average of €1,132 a year by choosing the most affordable chains rather than the priciest. Nationally, the cheapest supermarkets include Dani, Tifer, Family Cash and Alcampo, which consistently offer lower prices across many products. Among large national chains, Mercadona, Consum and Lidl also deliver competitive pricing. At the other end of the scale, the most expensive stores are dominated by the El Corte Inglés group, including Sánchez Romero, El Corte Inglés Supermercado and Supercor, along with online platforms such as Amazon and certain local chains like Caprabo and Condis.

In Madrid, the OCU found that choosing the cheapest store instead of the most expensive could save households more than €4,200 annually, underlining the impact of high-end chains in cities with higher living costs.

The report notes that prices continue to rise, particularly for fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables and meat, while packaged goods have seen slower increases. Prices can also vary between outlets of the same chain depending on location. The OCU says consumers who compare prices and vary their shopping habits benefit most, making its survey a practical guide for managing expenses amid inflation.

Signs of relief Fines returned

Costs settling gradually

EXPATRIATES in Spain are being reassured by forecasts showing inflation is expected to end 2025 at around 2.5 per cent, a far cry from the sharp increases of 2022–2023. However, analysts warn that while headline inflation looks steady, food and service prices remain stubbornly high, con-

household budgets, especially for foreign residents navigating exchange-rate fluctuations.

Experts note that core inflation, excluding energy and food, remains elevated in sectors like restaurants, leisure, and personal care, driven by wage growth, tourism demand, and rising costs. Food -

ticularly for fresh produce, eggs, and meat, are also still climbing due to weather disruptions and supply-chain pressures.

For expatriates, this means everyday expenses, from supermarket shops to dining out, are likely to rise faster than the overall average. A weekly grocery bill that once cost €70 may now exceed €80, while eating out in tourist areas continues to stretch budgets. Meanwhile, services such as gyms, healthcare, and car maintenance are also seeing persistent price hikes.

Those living on foreign income or pensions are urged to budget flexibly, as small currency fluctuations can magnify the impact of inflation. Tracking spending in key categories, using community advice, and holding some savings in euros can help offset the pressure.

Though Spain’s inflation appears calm on paper, expatriates may still feel a real rise closer to 3-4 per cent in daily living costs.

SPAIN’S Constitutional Court has ordered the government to refund nearly €26 million in fines issued during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown, ruling key emergency decrees unconstitutional. The decision, retroactively applied, invalidates fines for breaches like unauthorised movement or gatherings, often based on the controversial ‘gag law’.

This means anyone who paid such a fine may be eligible for a full refund. The Ministry of Finance reports 72,551 fines, totalling €25.9 million, have been cancelled as of October 3, 2025, averaging €350 per fine. The Ministry of Territorial Policy notes 92,278 fines wiped out by September 2025. Cities like Madrid are also refunding, with €1.7 million already returned. While over a million fines may be affected, automatic refunds are processing quickly for paid fines, with unpaid ones simply dropped.

To check eligibility, contact the issuing police or town hall, or use the State Agency for Tax Administration’s online portal under ‘ingresos indebidos’ or ‘devoluciones por sanciones Covid’. Alternatively, visit the Ministry of Finance’s transparency portal. If no record appears, submit a ‘reclamación de devolución’ with your fine’s reference number. Keep payment receipts handy and act promptly, as deadlines vary. With thousands of refunds processed and more underway, those fined during Spain’s lockdown are urged to verify their status. For updates, consult official government websites.

https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/procedi mientoini/RA03.shtml

Mojacar Music Mile trophy

FIVE nights of live music and local pride lit up Mojacar Playa as the inaugural Mojacar Music Mile Trophy 2025 celebrated the town’s vibrant nightlife and raised funds for marine charity Equinac.

Tito’s Beachbar claimed the top prize, praised for its stunning design, lively atmosphere, and signature burritos. The Spirit of Mojacar Award went to PJ’s The Pie Shop and its host Nicky, recognised for outstanding fundraising and family-friendly hospitality.

Funds raised during the week will support

Equinac’s work rescuing and rehabilitating sea life along the Almeria coast.

Other winners highlighted the town’s diverse bar scene: Bar Zeppellin for cocktails, Maui for nightlife, Coco’s for rock, The Irish Rover for community

spirit, and De Tap Room for its craft beer selection.

Organisers The Badlands Weekender Tabernas also hosted a Treasure Island Beach clean and family treasure hunt with TEAMA Autism Support, adding a playful touch with pirate costumes, gold nuggets, and seed-filled hearts.

Director Ashling Altisent Sans said the event captured “the magic of Mojacar,” with hopes to grow it into a yearly treasure trail.

Donations to Equinac can be made via their Facebook page Asociación Equinac.

Cruise calamity

A GROUP of Almeria residents were left reeling after they suddenly needed to be evacuated from a cruise ship, during its journey in Egypt. The fire, which broke out on the ship on Tuesday, October 28, destroyed the ship and some belongings of the passengers, but all cruise ship passengers were evacuated safely and with no injuries.

The ship, called the Iberotel Crown Empress, had been sailing on the famed Nile River

in Egypt, off the city of Luxor, when the fire broke out in the ship’s bar area, reportedly caused by an electric short circuit. The blaze, which began at around 6.15pm, spread to other parts of the vessel. The cruise ship then made an emergency docking at an unofficial port in the Egyptian city of Esna so that passengers could be evacuated.

Firefighters, according to reports, were on the scene immediately and were able to quickly extinguish the flames, whereas all passengers, believed to be around 220 people, most of whom were foreign tourists and 10 of whom were Almeria residents, were promptly evacuated onto another nearby ship. The damage was concentrated inside the ship and was significant, destroying the cabins and having spread through the entire hull, but no injuries were reported, though three crew members were taken to the hospital.

easyJet new route

EASYJET has begun operating its first-ever direct flights between Almeria and Liverpool, opening a new link between Andalucia’s southeast coast and the UK’s North West.

The inaugural service took off on Tuesday October 28, with flights now running twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The connection gives passengers a faster alternative

to travelling via Malaga or Madrid, cutting the journey time to under three hours.

Tourism officials in Almeria have welcomed the move as a major boost for international visibility and winter visitor numbers.

With around 320 days of sunshine a year, the province is positioning itself as a leading winter-sun destination for British travellers.

The route is part of easyJet’s 2025 winter expansion plan, strengthening connectivity from regional UK airports to Mediterranean destinations.

The link also carries a symbolic touch - Liverpool John Lennon Airport now connects directly to the city where John Lennon wrote parts of Strawberry Fields Forever while filming in Almería in 1966.

Flights start from around €17 one way, available via easyJet’s website.

Age-based sports schedules

BAZA Town Hall has introduced age-based time slots for its neighbourhood sports courts to promote fair use and prevent disputes.

The initiative, led by the Department of Sports, applies to multi-sport zones in Huerta del Pino, Parque de los Prados, Parque de la Constitución, Casillas de Jacinto and the Baúl neighbourhood.

Children up to 15 have priority from 4.30pm to 6.30pm in winter and 5.30pm to 7.30pm in summer.

Teenagers aged 15 to 18 have preference from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in winter and 7.30pm to 9.30pm in summer.

Adults over 18 may use the spaces from 8.30pm to 10.30pm in winter and 9.30pm to 11.30pm in summer.

If a court is free, it may be used by anyone, but priority must be given

Sign at a public sports court in Baza showing the

to the corresponding age group during its slot. Users can also share the space by mutual agreement.

The council said the new system aims to “improve coexistence and

ensure that all residents can enjoy the town’s sports areas safely and respectfully.”

Residents are advised to contact the Local Police on 958 700 005 in case of conflict.

PAWS progress

MOJACAR animal shelter PAWS-PATAS has some positive ‘pup-dates’ to ring in November and the start of the colder months. Celebrating a successful October, the well-known charity animal shelter informed its volunteers and friends about new adoptions, another successful Bingo Lunch Club, raffles, a festive Oktoberfest, and more.

An incredible 31 dogs and 12 cats were adopted since the end of the October holidays. Martine Shindler, a representative of PAWS-PATAS, shared her gratitude. “It’s why we do what we do,” she said. “Thank you to all the families that have given these previous members of the PAWS-PATAS family their new beginnings.”

In addition, the shelter hosted some suc-

cessful events in October. Their ever-popular Bingo Lunch Club raised €590, whereas volunteers and members of the community raised €347.40 at the shelter’s book sale. The Miraflores Games Night raised €318, and the special Oktoberfest event at De TAP ROOM on Mojacar Playa raised €215 for the furry friends at the shelter.

PAWS-PATAS was also a participating charity at The Indalo Player’s theatre performances of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. The raffles raised an incredible €483.

Interested and kindhearted volunteers can find out more, register for events, and adopt a fluffy family member at PAWS-PATAS’ official website, paws-patas.org.

Trade triumphs

ALMERIA is continuing to emblazon its position as one of the top Andalucian provinces for foreign trade, according to recent export statistics. The exports for Almeria were valued at €3.974 billion between January and August of 2025, representing a 6.4 per cent increase over the same period of last year. These numbers are an impressive all-time high and represent a trade surplus of €1.116 billion, having sold more foreign exports than it imported.

In total, the region of Andalucia reached

ding export item with €3.197 billion, representing 11.8 per cent of the total. Andalucia’s most sold product worldwide is olive oil, with €2.589 billion, representing 9.6 per cent of the total within the category of fats and oils.

€27.057 billion in exports during the first eight months of the year, with a €369 million balance in foreign trade surplus.

By product, mineral fuels and oils are the lea-

Fruits and vegetables, for which Almeria is particularly well-known, also performed well and reached record export numbers, with a 6.6 per cent increase amounting to €2.906 billion for vegetables, and a 13.1 per cent increase amounting to €2.645 billion for fruits.

Province of passengers

TRAINS in Almeria are reportedly seeing more passengers than ever before:

According to the 2024 Andalucian Statistical Yearbook, 272,207 passengers boarded the train in the province last year, a figure that is eight times higher than just five years ago in 2020, and double what it was in 2022. The statistics represent record numbers for the province, and a bright future ahead for its transport and connections between small towns and larger hubs.

As a matter of fact, the rail transport growth in Almeria has been the most dramatic in the whole of Andalucia.

While places like Malaga and Sevilla see more than 10 million passengers, and Almeria’s figure remains modest

in comparison at more than 272,000, Almeria’s dramatic increase of passengers, at 813 per cent since the pandemic, wipes the floor with all other regions in Andalucia.

However, Almeria’s impressive spike in passengers is no surprise. Since the year 2022, Spanish railway operator RENFE has maintained free season tickets for its ‘medium-distance’ services, therefore boosting trips between Almeria and Granada, particularly among students and workers. The boost in tourism the province has experienced has also played a part, with more than 1.5 million passengers staying in the province in 2024, according to the National Institute of Statistics.

Emotional ‘Momentos’

THE painter Miguel García Cano has unveiled Momentos, a new exhibition that turns familiar landscapes into emotional reflections of light, colour and memory.

Organised by the Garrucha Town Hall’s department of Culture, the opening drew visitors impressed by García Cano’s distinctive style - a blend of architectural precision and poetic vision that transforms nature into a mirror of human feeling.

Each canvas captures what the artist calls ‘combined instants’, merging diverse places into scenes that appear both real and dreamlike. The works invite quiet contemplation, where silence, balance and colour become part of the story.

The exhibition runs until November 1 28 at the Sala de Exposiciones, Centro Cultural de Garrucha, open Monday to Friday from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Councillor for Culture Luis José Fernández Cortés described Momentos as “a highly recommended exhibition for lovers of pictorial art.”

More than an art show, Momentos offers visitors an introspective journey - a reminder of how everyday landscapes can reveal something deeply human when seen through an artist’s eyes.

Rally glory returns

THE Rallye Costa de Almeria celebrated its 50th anniversary with a spectacular comeback to Spain’s national rally calendar, where Galician duo Jorge Cagiao and Javier Martínez took both the rally win and the 2025 Spanish Asphalt Rally Championship title.

Held from October 31 to November 1, the event featured 11 demanding stages across 107.5 competitive kilometres, with routes through Vicar–Enix, Alhabia–Santa Fe de Mondujar, Enix, Alboloduy and Ricaveral. Organised by the Automobile Club of Almeria (ACA), it began with a night stage the first day and ended with a ceremonial finish at Parque de las Almadrabillas in Almeria City.

Driving an Alpine A110 GT+, Cagiao and

Martínez set a winning time of 56 minutes 14.8 seconds, finishing ahead of Enrique Cruz and Yeray Mújica in second and Alberto Ordóñez and Pablo Sánchez in third. Local pair Pedro David Pérez and Miriam Antelo also impressed, placing in the top five.

The rally, which also scored points for the Andalucian and Provincial championships, passed through 19 municipalities, attracting thousands of spectators and significant media attention. With its national status restored and its golden milestone complete, the Rallye Costa de Almeria has re-established itself as a fixture on Spain’s motorsport map - and organisers are already planning an even stronger return in 2026.

Employment expansion

ACCORDING to a Labour Force Survey published on October 24 by the National Institute of Statistics, or INE, a total of 329,600 people are employed in Almeria. The activity rate for the third quarter of the year cu-

rrently stands at 59.78 per cent, according to the Institute’s data. Approximately 55,000 families, equivalent to 130,000 people, are studied in the survey.

During the third quarter of this year, the unemployment rate in Almeria

stood at 14.81 per cent, with 57,300 people unemployed. This figure is one and a half percentage points below the Andalucian average of 15.27 per cent, which bodes well for the province. There are slightly more unemployed men than women, with 31,200 unemployed men and 26,100 unemployed women. The male unemployment rate in Almeria stands at 14.36 per cent, and the female unemployment rate stands at 15.37 per cent. Conversely, there are also more employed men than employed women, with 185,900 of the former and 143,800 of the latter.

Roughly six out of 10 working-age residents in Almeria have a job, according to the statistics.

In total, in the third quarter, Spain reached 22,387,100 employed people, which registers as an all-time high, according to the survey.

Housing plan fears

PLANS to build 1,600 new homes on the beachfront of Palomares, Almeria, have revived concerns over radioactive soil left by the 1966 US Air Force nuclear accident, when four hydrogen bombs fell over the area. Environmentalists warn that construction could disturb traces of plutonium and americium still present in the ground, potentially releasing radioactive ‘hot particles’.

“The plutonium particles move with the wind,” said José Ignacio Domínguez from Ecologistas en Acción, calling for greater caution and transparency.

Spain’s Nuclear Safety Council (CSN) says there are ‘no radiological impediments’ to the project if works are coordinated with CIEMAT, which monitors the site. Tests show radiation levels within safe limits, though around 50,000 cubic metres of contaminated soil remain across 40 fenced plots.

Scientists note that plutonium in the soil gradually transforms into americium-241, whose activity will peak in the early 2030s, making continued monitoring essential.

Breakfast bonanza

A LOCAL hospitality association held, in October, a special new activity which included a draw for the ‘Flavours of Almeria’ baskets, participated in by those who took part in the inaugural edition of The Breakfast Route. The Provincial Association of Hospitality Entrepreneurs of Almeria, or ASHAL, were the hosts of the special draw and highlighted the warm, excited reception of the new activity which saw many participants from all over the province.

A 2015 Spain-US agreement to remove contaminated soil to the US has yet to be implemented. For Palomares, the development promises growth but revives an old question - how safe is safe enough?

The Breakfast Route of Almeria ran from September 12 to October 12 and saw the participation of more than 30 establishments in the province of Almeria, with the aim of rewarding loyal customers. Customers could complete a stamp card during the Breakfast Route by visiting five different breakfast venues.

Coaster packs created by members of the Arte 21 Occupational Centre of the Down Almeria Association were given to customers who completed the stamp cards. Additionally, the draw included prizes consisting of gourmet baskets of ‘Flavours

of Almeria’ products, valued between €50 and €100.

Creative, fun, and motivational initiatives such as the Breakfast Route continue to emblazon Almeria as a wonderful province not only for leisure, beach, and sports tourism, but as a considerable Andalucian powerhouse for gastronomy.

The region is a shining beacon for foodies and those interested in trying various new restaurants and hotspots.

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Be Kind - When real, raw, and honest wins hearts (and homes)

SOMETIMES we forget that business owners are real people. Behind every smiling photo on social media and every polished TV segment, there’s a person juggling endless pressures - keeping cash flowing, managing staff and clients, navigating Spanish laws, and still trying to care for their families and themselves.

Running a business in Spain is not for the faint-hearted. It takes resilience, adaptability, and a lot of heart. For Sharon Garner , co-founder of Spanish Property Choice , those challenges are lived in public. She and her family have become household names thanks to their appearances on Channel 4’s much-loved show Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. Viewers adore their warmth, humour, and honesty - but even the sunniest personalities have their breaking point.

• The Day Shazza Got Real

Last week, Sharon - affectionately known as Shazza - did something rare. She dropped the brave face and shared a raw, emotional post on social media. It wasn’t polished PR or a glossy promo - it was real and unfiltered. A heartfelt glimpse into the reality of being a business owner, mother, and public figure.

She spoke openly about the immense pressures she faces running a busy real estate agency, supporting her team, and being there for her family.

What broke her heart, though, wasn’t a business setback - it was reading cruel and unnecessary comments about her loved ones.

“I can take criticism about me,” Sharon said. “But when it’s about my family, that’s when it hurts.”

Her message to the world was simple: #BeKind

That message resonated far and wide. Within hours, her post attracted tens of thousands of views and messages of support. People were moved by her courage and vulnerability - not just fans, but complete strangers who saw themselves in her honesty.

• Real, Raw, and Rewarding

In an age where social media can feel like a highlight reel of perfection, Sharon’s openness cut through the noise. Her Be Kind post reminded everyone that behind the success stories and smiles, business owners are human too.

Entrepreneurs across Spain quietly admitted they had been there - behind a closed door, holding back tears, wondering how to keep going.

Sharon’s authenticity gave a voice to what many feel but rarely say. And as is so often the case with truth, her vulnerability became her strength.

The public didn’t see weakness - they saw humanity.

• A Silver Lining for Spanish Property Choice

Out of that difficult day came something extraordinary. The wave of engagement Sharon’s post created became one of the biggest surges of attention Spanish Property Choice has ever seen.

Tens of thousands of people not only reached out with kind words - they also discovered (or rediscovered) the family business Sharon and her husband Steve have built with such care. Website traffic soared as new visitors browsed their extensive portfolio of stunning properties across Almeria, Mojacar traditional cortijos and countryside retreats to modern villas and seaside apartments.

There’s truth in the saying that there’s no such thing as bad publicity. Sharon’s moment of real ness turned into a powerful spotlight on her busi ness - because people connect with people. Spanish Property Choice didn’t just gain expo sure; they gained admiration. Buyers and sellers alike saw the heart behind the brand - a fami ly that works hard, supports one another, and treats clients like friends.

•

More Than Twenty Years of Trust and Fa

mily Values

After more than 20 years of living and working in Spain, Sharon and Ste ve have built Spanish Property Choice into one of the most respected real estate com panies in the region.

Their success story is a testament to hard work, integrity, and communi ty spirit.

Together with their children and experien ced team, they have hel ped countless families find their dream home in Spainguiding them through every step with honesty and care. Clients often describe the experience as ‘feeling like part of the family’, which has made the agency a trusted name for both inter national buyers and locals alike.

• A Message That Matters

Sharon’s Be Kind message came at just the right time. It reminded everyone that we never truly know what someone else is going through. Business owners, especially those in the public eye, carry a weight that isn’t always visible.

Her courage to be vulnerable turned a moment of struggle into one of connection. And after the rain came the rainbow - thousands of people uplifted, and an even brighter spotlight on the family-run agency that has been helping others find happiness under the Spanish sun for over two decades.

Because at the end of the day, whether you’re buying a villa in Almeria or selling an apartment on the Costa del Sol, kindness and connection are what truly make a house feel like a home.

Spain excludes former King

SPAIN will mark 50 years since the proclamation of King Juan Carlos I on November 22, 1975, but the former monarch will not attend the official events.

The Royal Household confirmed Juan Carlos has not been invited to

the institutional ceremonies at Madrid’s Royal Palace and Congress of Deputies on November 21, though he will join a private family lunch the following day at El Pardo Palace. Officials said the decision followed proto -

col, as the 87-year-old retired from public duties in 2019.

For King Felipe VI, the anniversary highlights Spain’s transition to democracy and his efforts to renew the monarchy’s image. Since taking the

throne in 2014, Felipe has introduced financial audits, a code of conduct, and greater separation from his father’s affairs.

Remembrance in Spain

BRITISH expatriates in Spain will mark Remembrance Day on Tuesday November 11 with solemn ceremonies mixing UK traditions and local customs.

An estimated 300,000 Brits live across the Iberian Peninsula. For them, the Armistice of 1918 - ending the Great War - holds deep meaning far from home. Amid rising global tensions, the day’s call for peace feels urgent.

The Royal British Legion (RBL) Spain branch leads events. It plans 15 official gatherings in 2025, up 20 per cent from 2023. These include wreath-laying, church services and two-minute silences at 11am in expatriate centres.

Malaga’s British Cemetery hosts the largest Iberian ceremony, expecting over 500 people. Red poppies will join Spanish laurel wreaths. Last year’s poppy appeal raised €25,000 for veteran welfare.

On the Costa Blanca, home to 50,000 Brits,

beach vigils and pub sing-alongs are planned. In Alicante and Valencia, schools offer poppy crafts; parks host post-silence picnics.

Hybrid tributes unite symbols: poppies meet carnations, reaching 8,000 people in 2024. Some 500 volunteers help with marshalling and storytelling.

The British Embassy in Madrid streams events online. Social media spreads the message. Spaniards join Brits in honouring sacrifice and praying for peace.

The commemorations will include the presentation of the Golden Fleece to Queen Sofía, former prime minister Felipe González, and constitutional figures Miquel Roca and Miguel Herrero.

Although prosecutors closed all investigations into Juan Carlos in 2022, his reputation remains damaged. He has lived in self-imposed exile in Abu Dhabi since 2020, returning to Spain only for brief visits.

Public reaction remains divided: many see his exclusion as appropriate, others as disrespectful.

While no official polls have been conducted in years, independent analyses suggest most Spaniards still back the monarchy, though trust remains fragile.

Golden Leaves and Avalon Unite

THERE’S exciting news for foreign residents across Spain - and we at the Euro Weekly News are absolutely delighted to share it! Two of the most respected names in the industry, Golden Leaves and Avalon, have officially joined forces, creating the largest fully financially regulated funeral plan provider in Spain.

This is not just a merger - it’s the coming together of two powerhouses, both fully regulated and both synonymous with trust, professionalism, and compassion. Together, Golden Leaves and Avalon are now one family, united in their mission to deliver complete peace of mind and financial protection to the British and international communities who call Spain home.

For decades, both companies have been leading lights in funeral planning, gi-

ving families reassurance that their wishes will be respected and their loved ones cared for when the time comes. This partnership takes that confidence to an entirely new level - offering greater strength, more choice, and the highest standards of protection.

Two trusted names. One stronger future.

Spain

By joining forces, Golden Leaves and Avalon are combining their deep experience, trusted reputations, and customer-first approach. The result is an unrivalled network of support and expertise, with a wide range of flexible plans tailored to meet every need and budget. And because both are fully regulated by UK financial authorities, customers have the

ultimate security - knowing their investment is safe, protected, and guaranteed.

This landmark moment isn’t just about business growth - it’s about giving something invaluable back to the community. It’s about trust, confidence, and the comforting knowledge that your affairs are handled by the very best in the business.

At Euro Weekly News, we are proud to celebrate this powerful union of two outstanding companies serving our expat residents. On behalf of the Directors, Michel and Steven Euesden, we send our warmest congratulations to everyone at Golden Leaves and Avalon on this exciting new chapter.

This merger is a huge win for our community - a partnership built on integrity and designed to bring lasting security and peace of mind to all who live here in Spain.

Avalon - (0034) 966 799 070 • www.avalonfuneralplans.com • info@avalonfuneralplans.com Golden Leaves & Avalon - Together, protecting what matters most.

Golden Leaves - (0034) 966 493 082 • www.goldenleavesinternational.com • info@goldenleavesinternational.com

For almost 20 years, Coles of Andalucia has been a cornerstone of the real estate market in the Almeria province, known for its personal approach, local knowledge, and unwavering commitment to both buyers and sellers. What began as a small, family-run business founded by Simon and Rachael, Coles has grown into one of the most respected names in property sales across the region. Now, with the exciting opening of a second office in Arboleas, Coles continues to expand its reach, offering even greater support to its inland and coastal clients.

FOUNDED on the values of integrity, transparency, and genuine care for the people they serve, Simon and Rachael built Coles of Andalucia on relationships rather than transactions. From day one, their mission has been clear: to provide an honest, stressfree, and professional property experience while helping clients find their dream homes in southern Spain. Whether it’s a modern coastal apartment with sea views or a charming country villa surrounded by olive groves, the Coles team has helped hundreds of buyers find their ideal lifestyle under the Andalucian sun.

The company’s head office in Turre has long been at the heart of operations, perfectly located to serve the coastal towns of Mojacar, Garrucha, Vera, and San Juan etc, as well as the surrounding inland villages such as Los Gallardos, Turre, Bedar, and Antas. With years of experience in these areas, the Turre team has developed an unmatched understanding of the local market - from property values and legal processes to lifestyle insights that only locals can share.

However, as the company has grown, so too has the demand for a broader presence. The opening of the new Arboleas office marks an exciting new chapter for Coles of Andalucia , enabling the team to extend their professional and personalised service to a wider inland community. The Almanzora Valley, known for its picturesque countryside, traditional Spanish charm, and thriving expatriate network, has become one of the most desirable inland areas for international buyers. The new office ensures that clients in this region have the same direct access to Coles’ expertise, support, and full marketing services as those along the coast.

A major factor in Coles’ continued success is its powerful online presence and social media reach. With an impressive following of over 31,000 people across its social platforms, Coles of Andalucia con-

nects daily with a vast audience of property seekers from around the world. This extensive digital reach offers enormous benefits for both buyers and sellers. For sellers, it means maximum exposure - every new listing is instantly shared with thousands of engaged followers, dramatically increasing visibility and helping properties reach the right audience fas ter. For buyers, it provides instant access to the latest listings, video tours, and updates, ensuring they never miss an opportunity to find their ideal home. In a competitive property market, this level of engagement and real-time communication gives Coles a clear advantage.

What sets Coles apart is its commitment to doing things the right way - with honesty, passion, and a deep respect for both the local area and its clients. Every member of the Coles team lives and works in Almeria, giving them a genuine understanding of the lifestyle and communities they represent. This local insight allows them not only to match clients with the perfect property but also to help them integrate smoothly into their new lives in Spain.

Over the years, Coles has also gained a strong reputation internationally, thanks to its professional marketing, high-quality photography, drone footage, detailed property descriptions, and excellent client care. The company’s modern approach - combining traditional values with digital innovation - ensures maximum visibility for sellers and a seamless experience for buyers. From online virtual tours to personalised viewing appointments, Coles embraces the

latest tools to make property buying and selling easier than ever.

Despite its continued growth, Coles of Andalucia remains true to its family-run roots. Under the continued guidance of Simon and Rachael, the business operates with the same personal touch and attention to detail that made it successful nearly two decades ago. Every client, whether buying a first holiday home or selling a long-loved property, is treated as part of the extended Coles family.

As the team celebrates this exciting expansion into Arboleas, the message is clear: Coles of Andalucia is not just about selling houses - it’s about building connections, supporting communities, and helping people find their place in this beautiful corner of Spain. With two offices now serving both inland and coastal clients, and a digital audience of tens of thousands following their journey, Coles is perfectly positioned to continue leading the way in the Almeria property market for many years to come.

Turre Office - landline: 0034 950 469 592 Avenida Almeria 78, Turre. 04639. Almeria.

Arboleas office – landline: 0034 850 993 099 Avenida Almanzora, Edifico Atalaya 5, Arboleas , 04660 Almeria.

Cadaques by campervan: A coastal guide to Northern Catalonia

SITUATED on the Cap de Creus peninsula in northeastern Spain, Cadaques has long attracted visitors for its coastal setting, artistic connections and relaxed atmosphere. The town lies close to the French border and is often included in campervan journeys along the Costa Brava. Its narrow streets, waterfront restaurants and views across the bay make it a well-known stop for those exploring Catalonia at their own pace.

Access to Cadaques involves a winding mountain road from Roses, with striking views on the descent. Campervans can use designated parking areas outside the centre, as the old town streets are too narrow for large vehicles. The ‘Aparcament Sa Conca’ and nearby areas provide daytime and overnight parking. Walking into the town takes around 10 minutes, and local taxis are availa-

contains a notable Baroque altar. Small galleries throughout the town display contemporary Catalan art, continuing a creative tradition that began in the early 20th century when artists and writers gathered here.

the Empordà region, and the weekly market includes stalls selling fruit, bread and handmade crafts. Outdoor activities and surroundings

The nearby Cap de Creus Natural Park attracts walkers and cy-

ALMERIA

Holiday homage

THE municipality of Bedar will be hosting its highly anticipated Christmas market in December, which this year will mark the event’s 10th anniversary.

Not only this, the market has been dedicated in loving memory of a beloved member of the Bedar community, Mariam May Simpson, a member of the town council whose death shocked and saddened the community.

The Christmas market has become a staple of the holiday season for Bedar, and on its 10th anniversary this year, promises to bring even more spectacular art, music, food, and fun for all the residents and visitors of the charming municipality.

Taking place on December 6, the market will be the perfect opportunity to ring in the holiday spirit, purchase special and locally-made

gifts for friends and families, or simply enjoy a festive, vibrant atmosphere in the idyllic Almeria town. Those interested in participating in the market can send a request via email to airubiog@bedar.es Mariam May Simpson was a councillor for Bedar who sadly passed away in

VERA, in honour of International Library Day, which took place on October 24, is rolling out a special programme that will celebrate books and learning, not only for younger residents, but for adult residents as well. The 2025-2026 programme, taking place at the Ezequiel Navarrete Municipal Library, will bring culture, learning, and the joy of reading to all Vera residents of all ages and skill levels.

For the rest of the year, every Friday will become ‘Book Friday’ from 5.30 to 6.30pm for children ages eight to 12. The project aims to encourage reading among younger students

April of this year. She was beloved in Bedar not only for her work as a councillor and professionalism, but for her kindness and her quality as a person and friend. Now, the community members and town officials of Bedar continue to honour her memory with the upcoming Christmas market.

Seaside steaks RESTAURANT REVIEW

LOCATED on the idyllic seafront promenade of Mojacar Playa, a local restaurant stands out as a gem of seaside dining. La Cabaña Bar & Grill Mojacar, a vibrant destination for lovers of grilled meats, is located on the Paseo del Mediterraneo and merges Argentinianinspired grill with a relaxed and laid-back coastal atmosphere.

The shining stars of the menu selection are a series of premium cuts: rib eye, sirloin, fillet, and Argentinian steak. Characteristic, bold flavours, and excellent presentation make the steaks take centre stage, but generous side dishes and savoury tapas also give the menu considerable variety. With the house’s mouthwatering sauces, crisp

fries, and well-seasoned vegetables, the side dishes offer a dash of flavour to perfectly accompany a steak.

Located on Mojacar’s Paseo del Mediterraneo, 8, La Cabaña Bar & Grill is open 12.00pm to 4.00pm and again from 7.00pm to 11.00pm, making it an ideal and atmospheric spot for a laid-back lunch or a romantic dinner overlooking a fiery

Bookish beginnings

by providing them with engaging reading activities, including read-alouds, literaturebased games, and fun activities for reading comprehension.

Adults will also be able to participate in the fun, with a special reading club, ‘Literary Breakfast’, on Tuesdays at 11.00am, and a ‘Wednesday Coffee’ activity on Wednesday at 5.30pm. Both the children’s activities and the

adult book clubs will be extended throughout the year.

Local residents will also be able to show off their literary prowess in the third edition of Vera’s highly-anticipated literary competition, ‘Vera is Letters, Vera is Prose, Vera is Poetry’, with different genres available for submission. The submission dates will officially begin in January of 2026.

Almeria sunset. With perfectly-cooked steaks, a seafront setting, and warm, friendly, and professional service, La Cabaña Bar & Grill Mojacar offers a perfect spot to relax and savour a hearty meal, whether you’re a visitor or a local resident looking for a new favourite hotspot. T. 950 615 179 iberiago.site/ LaCabanaGril/

Fiestas de San Diego returns

is preparing to celebrate one of its most cherished traditions - the Fiestas de San Diego, taking place from November 12 to November 16. The annual event fills the town with colour, music and community pride, attracting residents and visitors from across the Almanzora Valley.

Dating back to the late 1500s, the fiestas began when a Franciscan community dedicated itself to San Diego de Alcala, whose feast day on November 13 remains

the centrepiece of the celebration. What started as a devotional gathering evolved into a lively fair that continues to define the town’s identity centuries later.

Over five days, Cuevas will host a packed schedule of religious, cultural and family activities. The highlight is a solemn Mass

and grand procession on November 13, featuring local associations, floats and horse-drawn carriages. Around the fairground, visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, food stalls and amusement rides. For locals, the fiesta is more than a celebration - it’s a homecoming that unites generations and preserves community traditions.

With the 2025 poster already unveiled and preparations under way, Cuevas del Almanzora is set for another unforgettable edition of this much-loved Andalucian fair.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Indalo Transport Ltd - For effortless moves between the UK, Spain & Europe

MAKING a house move between countries can feel daunting, but Indalo Transport Ltd has built its reputation on taking the stress out of international relocations. With over a decade of experience, the company provides fully insured, door-todoor removal and storage services between the UK, Spain, Ireland, and France - combining British reliability with local Spanish expertise.

With bases in both the UK and Spain, including a major warehouse and logistics hub in Palomares, Almeria, Indalo Transport offers the perfect balance of reach and personal service. Their experienced team, many of whom are long-term residents of Spain, understand the challenges of European moves - from customs clearance and export packing to careful scheduling and delivery.

A hallmark of their service is the ‘Indalo Standard’ - a professional packing and protection system using export-grade wrapping, triple-wall boxes, meticulous

inventory procedures, and full insurance

coverage. Whether moving a full household or a smaller part-load, clients can count on their belongings being treated with the utmost care.

The company also provides flexible storage options in its Spanish facility, from

short-term solutions to long-term secure storage. This makes Indalo Transport an ideal choice for homeowners renovating, relocating seasonally, or waiting for a new property to be ready.

What truly sets Indalo Transport apart is its combination of local knowledge and international capability. The team works tirelessly to make each move smooth, predictable, and efficient - qualities reflected in countless glowing client testimonials praising their professionalism, punctuality, and friendly support.

For anyone preparing to move to, from, or within Spain, Indalo Transport Ltd offers far more than a removal service - it delivers peace of mind. With expert logistics, transparent communication, and genuine care for every customer, your belongings are always in safe hands.

Contact Indalo Transport Ltd: Spain: Warehouse, Ctra. Garrucha - Palomares s/n, 04617 Almeria Spain: +34 950 821 002 / UK Freephone: 0800 999 3368 / info@indalotransport.com / www.indalotransport.com

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Illegal waste

CRIME groups are earning millions from illegal waste dumping across the UK, a Lords committee has warned. Peers said weak enforcement and few prosecutions have made waste crime a ‘low-risk, high-reward’ industry, costing the economy £1 billion a year and causing environmental damage.

Redeia profits

REDEIA, parent company of Red Eléctrica de España, reported a 4.6 per cent fall in profits to €389.8 million in the first nine months of 2025. This was despite a 47.6 per cent surge in investment, focusing on electricity network expansion across Spain.

Delta dining

DELTA AIRLINES has partnered with Spanish Chef José Andrés to strengthen its premium cabin brand and attract high-value travellers. Launching November 4, it offers Spanish-inspired dishes such as tortilla with pisto manchego and braised beef short rib, supporting Delta’s premium revenue growth strategy.

UK investment

CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves has announced £6.4 billion in new UK–Saudi trade and investment agreements, including £5 billion in export finance to support British manufacturing. The package includes major deals with Barclays, HSBC, and AI firm Quantexa.

5G in Spain

TELEFÓNICA has consolidated its 5G leadership in Spain, reaching 5,700 municipalities and more than 94 per cent of the population. The operator now has nearly 3,000 high-performance 3.5 GHz nodes and 5,000 on the 700 MHz band, reinforcing ultra-fast, low-latency connectivity.

STAT OF WEEK

Spain’s GDP registered a variation of 0.6% in the third quarter compared with the previous quarter.

Spain leads Europe

SPAIN is positioning itself at the centre of Europe’s digital transformation, following a landmark Spain Digital Week in Brussels that united European and Spanish leaders, business executives, and tech innovators.

The event coincided with the European Commission’s conference marking one year since Mario Draghi’s report on competitiveness. The report identified structural challenges in Europe’s economy – such as regulatory fragmentation, lack of investment, and overdependence on foreign technology – and proposed reforms to

boost innovation.

According to the Commission, more than half of the 90 initiatives under its Competitiveness Compass have now been implemented, mobilising over €1

City chief warning

CITY of London Corporation Policy Chairman Chris Hayward has urged the Chancellor to “supercharge, not stall” the UK’s financial services sector in the Autumn Budget, calling it “the engine of the UK economy.”

The Square Mile now employs 678,000 people – 25 per cent above pre-pandemic levels – and generates more than £110 billion annually. Hayward warned that with a £115 billion investment gap, the Budget must inject “creativity, capital and confidence.”

The Corporation’s recommendations include keeping financial services VAT-free, phasing out the bank levy, abolishing stamp duty on UK shares, and developing a pipeline of investible projects in infrastructure and technology.

FCA disclosure

THE UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) plans to stop revealing the names of investors betting against listed companies, the Financial Times reported. Under the new rules, only the total short positions will be published, without identifying individual traders. The change aims to simplify reporting and reduce market speculation linked to short-selling disclosures. The FCA is expected to confirm the move soon, marking a significant shift in UK market transparency rules.

trillion in investments for AI, clean tech, and innovation projects.

At the forum, Adigital CEO César Tello urged policymakers to focus on better regulation, not deregulation, calling for

streamlined digital frameworks that support business scalability and innovation across the EU.

Spain aims to use its growing digital capacity to act as a bridge between Europe and Latin America, strengthening its global position as a hub for technology, trade, and data governance.

Tello added that “the digital revolution will not wait,” urging Europe to act collectively to become a true global leader in technology.

If Spain delivers on its vision, it could become the leading digital hub in Europe, and a key link between continents.

It also calls for pension reform, stronger retail investment incentives, and a leading role for the UK in sustainable finance ahead of COP30.

Hayward said: “Sending the right signals to wealth creators is essential for growth and prosperity.”

Digi Spain IPO

ROMANIAN telecom group Digi Communications plans to list its Spanish business in an initial public offering (IPO) valued at around €2.5 billion, according to Profit.ro. The company has appointed Barclays, Santander, and UBS as global coordinators, with Rothschild as financial adviser. The IPO could take place as early as May 2026 and would see between 25 and 30 per cent of shares sold. Digi Spain is now the country’s fourth-largest telecom operator, behind Telefónica, Masorange, and Vodafone. The company says it will keep control of its Spanish unit, using IPO funds to grow its network across Western Europe.

SPANISH scientists have developed new technology to turn sewage sludge into activated carbon for sustainable battery production, offering a breakthrough in waste management and clean energy.

The innovation, created by the Chemical Institute for Energy and Environment (Iquema) with the Villaviciosa wastewater plant, transforms urban waste through pyrolysis at 800°C and mixing with sulphur to make high-capacity electrodes.

These sulphur-based batteries can store up to three times more energy than lithium-ion cells, supporting Spain’s renewable energy goals.

WALES is set to benefit from £1.1 billion in UK defence investment, supporting around 3,900 skilled jobs across the nation, according to the UK government’s new Defence Footprint report.

The spending equates to £340 per person, backing industries such as advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity from Anglesey to Cardiff.

The investment is part of plans to raise defence spending to 2.6 per cent of GDP by 2027, with ambitions for 3 per cent, driving national security.

Spain’s

THE main Spanish stock market index, the IBEX 35, has hit a new record high of 16,054 points, beating its previous peak from 2007. The index has jumped 38 per cent this year, doing better than any other major European market. The rise has been driven by strong gains in Spanish banks, with Santander’s shares up about 90 per cent in 2025. Other banks in the index have also climbed between 67 and 82 per cent. Experts say Spain’s healthy economy and banks’ growth in Latin America have helped push the market to its highest level ever.

IBERDROLA reported record investments of €9 billion for 2025, driven by growth in the UK and US, boosting net profit by 17 per cent to €5.3 billion. Network operating profit rose 26 per cent, while renewables and retail EBITDA fell 11 per cent due to Mexico divestments and higher Iberian costs. Cash flow climbed 10 per cent to €9.7 billion, with net debt reduced to €48.5 billion.

3I Group 4.419,00 4.458,00 4.406,00 111,89K

Group 3.288,0 3.304,0 3.274,0 26,88K Airtel Africa 274,80 278,00 272,60 756,23K Anglo American 2.899,0 2.915,0 2.885,0 303,05K Antofagasta 2.800,00 2.826,00 2.784,00 159,44K Ashtead Group 5.109,0 5.148,0 5.102,0 94,59K Associated British Foods 2.296,0 2.311,0 2.289,0 86,84K

12.574,0 12.580,0 12.488,0 171,72K

Trader Group Plc 781,60 804,00 776,20 671,35K Aviva 670,98 675,80 668,60 675,5K

B&M European Value Retail SA 180,90 183,35 179,75 2,03M BAE Systems 1.888,50 1.891,50 1.852,68 430,88K

407,00 407,10 404,25 5,29M Barratt Redrow 384,00 387,20 383,00 1,06M

Beazley 935,25 949,00 930,50 224,2K Berkeley 4.078,0 4.084,0 4.042,0 23,15K

BP 441,95 446,20 439,37 6,08M British American Tobacco 3.922,0 3.928,0 3.886,0 308,18K

BT Group 183,15 183,40 182,00 1,68M Bunzl 2.324,0 2.342,0 2.318,0 80,29K Centrica 179,15 180,65 178,70 1,88M

3.458,0 3.478,0 3.446,0 66,3K

2.517,00 2.538,00 2.513,00 190,78K

5.020,0 5.030,0 4.984,0 15,63K

Euro

EUR/GBP: Up from £0.87 to £0.88

EUR/USD: Down from $1.17 to $1.15

French political uncertainty injected significant volatility into the euro through the beginning of October, with the shock resignation and reappointment of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu spotlighting the country’s deep political divisions and the government’s struggle to pass a budget.

Support for the euro remained mixed in the latter half of the month, despite the European Central Bank (ECB) leaving interest rates on hold and third-quarter GDP outpacing forecasts.

Eurozone economic indicators are likely to be closely watched in the coming month, with the euro likely to maintain a positive trajectory if the data support the view that the ECB’s cutting cycle is complete.

Currency outlook: Euro rocked by fresh French political uncertainty, UK fiscal jitters drag on the pound

Pound

GBP/EUR: Down from €1.14 to €1.13

GBP/USD: Down from $1.34 to $1.31

The pound faced headwinds through October as a spike in UK bond yields revived concerns over the country’s fiscal position and the measures Chancellor Rachel Reeves will take to balance the books in her upcoming budget.

Also sapping Sterling sentiment was the UK’s latest con-

sumer price index, as a softer-than-expected inflation print revived bets the Bank of England (BoE) may cut interest rates in December.

Unsurprisingly, the publication of the autumn budget at the end of November will be in the spotlight for GBP investors this month, potentially infusing further volatility in the pound as markets speculate on its contents.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Up from £0.74 to £0.76

USD/EUR: Up from €0.85 to €0.86

Trade in the US dollar was uneven over the past month, with the currency fluctuating in response to the US government shutdown and the flaring and subsequent easing of US-China trade tensions.

Elsewhere, the Federal Reserve lit a fire under the US dollar at the end of the month, delivering a widely expected interest rate cut but cast doubts on another cut in December.

As the US government shutdown drags into its second month, we may see USD investors become increasingly concerned about the drought in data and the uncertainty this casts over the performance of the US economy. Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

We can’t do anything

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

CAN anyone please tell me what on earth is actually going on with this planet of ours? The whole shebang seems to be teetering on some kind of destabilising precipice, with our so-called leaders stumbling through it all in a complete befuddled daze. Politicians are groping through a tangled jungle of confusion and governmental garbage, getting all their priorities wrong and having no knowledge or capability of even vaguely coming to grips with it all. Those, who are laughingly under the impression that they can make a difference, are all rushing around, trying to look important and ultimately reversing up their own backsides.

I cannot help but think we are yet again all pawns in some devious plan set in motion by those who truly run our lives; shadowy figures, who walk the secret corridors of those who hold the wealth of the world to their electronic bosoms and have the ability to buy and sell countries. These individuals

instigate, and even rely on worldwide destabilisation, confusion and chaos to put their own devious and self-gratifying schemes into operation. Dividing and prospering is their speciality.

Another Leapy rant? I hear you say. Well, I was accused of plenty of those, when I warned 30 years or more ago that if we didn’t sort out the immigration problems, it would be too late and our obstacles would be everywhere, so don’t dismiss the ol boy’s ramblings too flippantly. Look at the state we’re all in.

Mid-East turmoil, African countries in chaos, Congo in particular, who conveniently hold vast supplies of Cobalt, required in the manufacture of electric cars. The total bunch are forcing so many opposing cultures and numbers into the mix, they are destabilising economies, causing anger and distrust in communities, destroying freedom of speech and generally upsetting their entire previously peaceful and fairly contented existence.

These manipulators must love all this fiasco, you can bet they all have a few fingers in some particular pie. Palestine is still teetering on the precarious brink. Russia remains controlled by crimi-

nals. China is still twitching; and a virtually unpredictable personality now commands the most powerful nation on Earth. All this diversity rubbish has created its natural reaction from idiots, whose lunatic ideas and schemes simply muddy the waters of common sense even more. And on it goes. I just can’t shake of the feeling that the whole occurrence is some kind of smoke screen, devised by these hidden manipulators to create a new world order which will be beneficial to only them.

Saudi Arabia doesn’t seem to be experiencing too much turmoil, managing to squeeze their flowing robes into world affairs and putting up a seriously red herring of sharing in our drastic culture changes by allowing women to drive! By the amounts of wealth they have sucked out over the years, you can bet there’s a few of their oily fingers entrenched somewhere in the ‘club’. Ah well. There is only one thing you can rely on. The likes of you, I and most everyone else, can’t do a durned thing about it. Lend us a fiver!

Keep the Faith love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Rare lynx spotted

A PHOTOGRAPHER in Jaen, has captured images of a leucistic Iberian lynx, a rare genetic variant that causes partial loss of pigmentation, resulting in a pale or white coat. Conservationists believe this may be the first documented case in Spain and possibly the only one globally.

Leucistic individuals are extremely rare due to the recessive gene.

The lynx appears healthy, agile, and socially normal within its habitat. Specialists have confirmed that the animal’s condition is leucism rather than albinism, which is more common and often linked to vision problems. The Iberian lynx is the world’s most endangered feline, historically confined to southern Spain and Portugal. Decades of conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and breeding programmes, have slowly increased populations, yet the species remains vulnerable. Leucistic individuals are extremely rare due to the recessive nature of the gene, requiring both parents to carry it. This makes the Jaen sighting an extraordinary example of natural variation in a fragile population. Researchers see the discovery as a unique opportunity to study how genetic variations affect behaviour, survival, and interactions with other lynxes. Authorities are keeping the lynx’s location secret to prevent human disturbance, emphasising that it is thriving in the wild. The sighting also highlights the importance of protecting Iberian lynx habitats, including forests, scrubland, and prey populations.

Four-day week?

EUROPE is embracing four-day workweek experiments, driven by post-pandemic calls for flexibility. The ‘10080-100’ model offers full pay for 80 per cent hours, aiming for equal productivity.

Iceland leads, with 86 per cent of workers on 35-36-hour weeks since 2019 pilots, no pay cuts. Belgium legislated it in 2022, allowing 38 hours compressed into four days.

Germany’s six-month trial started in February 2024 with 45 firms, expanding via a 2025 flexible work bill granting request rights. Spain’s €50 million pilot, running to 2027, targets 200 companies for 32-hour wee -

ks after Valencia’s 2023 success with extra ‘Mondays off’. The UK reports 11 per cent of workers (2.7 million) on four-day schedules by October 2025.

Benefits shine through. Germany’s participants slept 38 minutes more weekly, exercised 25 minutes extra, and cut stress by 90 minutes. Iceland saw 5 per cent GDP growth in 2023 and 3 per cent unemployment. UK trials boosted revenue 1.4 per cent, reduced stress 39 per cent, and cut sick days. Globally, 92 per cent job retention.

Critics highlight worker shortages in ageing populations; Germany’s sectors strain further.

Sweden’s nurse pilot

needed extra staff. UK’s Asda abandoned a 44hour compression due to exhaustion; councils faced October 2025 backlash as ‘wasteful’.

Trials show 90 per cent employee satisfaction, aided by AI gains of 5-25 per cent in tech. Expansions loom in Portugal, the UK, and EU talks for 2026.

Time warp woes

AS the clocks go back each October, many people look forward to an extra hour in bed. But while the change may seem minor, it can have surprising effects on our physical and mental well-being. Research published in the journal Sleep Medicine highlights that even a one-hour shift can temporarily disturb the body’s circadian rhythm, the internal clock that governs sleep, mood and metabolism.

Unlike the spring change, the October transition often feels gentler, but studies suggest it still impacts sleep quality and daily alertness. The University of Surrey found that sleep patterns can be disrupted for several days after the clocks go back, espe -

cially in those already prone to sleep difficulties.

The darker evenings and reduced daylight also play a role. Less exposure to natural light can influence melatonin production and mood regulation, making some people feel more tired or low in energy. This seasonal shift is linked to a rise in symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

To adjust more smoothly, experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep routine and spending time outdoors in daylight. While the October clock change may offer a brief lie-in, it still calls for a little extra care to keep your well-being on track.

AI is fast becoming the new beauty consultant in 2025, with thousands of women turning to ChatGPT for make-up and style advice.

Social media is flooded with videos of women uploading selfies to ChatGPT and asking, ‘How would you enhance my natural beauty?’

One user, Kelly Alessandra Pozo, told El País: “Before, to receive aesthetic advice, you had to go to a professional and pay. Now you can have a first contact with AI, which, if used well, can give you very accurate ideas.”

Others see it as more than entertainment.

Victoria, a 39-year-old from Argentina, told the paper she now treats ChatGPT like a free consultant: “With all this training and my profile built, I usually see a piece of clothing or makeup and ask her directly if it looks good on me.”

But psychologists warn of deeper issues.

With ChatGPT drawing

ChatGPT glow-up

an estimated 700 million weekly users, companies are desperate to make their products show up in AI-generated beauty routines.

According to The Business of Fashion, giants like Estée Lauder and L’Oréal are experimenting with ‘generati -

ve engine optimisation’ (GEO) to boost their chances of being recommended. Despite the hype, serious issues remain.

Consultancy Profound found answers from AI platforms were only 50 per cent factually accurate.

Cleanest air in Spain

FOR anyone considering a move to Spain, air quality is a crucial factor for long-term well-being, supporting healthy lungs, better sleep, improved concentration, and an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle.

Spain’s diverse geography and relatively low industrial activity contribute to some of the cleanest air in Europe. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) have steadily declined, with many regions well below EU limits.

Northern Spain offers fresh, ocean-purified air. Galicia’s coastline and forests, coupled with Atlantic winds, ensure low pollution, making cities like Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña especially healthy. Asturias and Cantabria, part of ‘Green Spain’, combine mountains, forests, and sea breezes to main tain excellent air quality, ideal for

outdoor enthusiasts.

Southern Spain also boasts clean air, particularly in mountain and coastal areas. Las Alpujarras in Andalucia benefits from altitude, olive groves, and limited traffic, attracting health-focused residents. Cadiz and Tarifa enjoy constant airflow from the Levante and Poniente winds, keeping pollution low and offering relaxed coastal living.

In central and eastern Spain, rural provinces such as La Rioja, Teruel, and Soria provide quiet landscapes, minimal industry, and consistently ‘Excellent’ air quality. These regions are ideal for expatriates seeking affordable, peaceful living with natural surroundings.

Southern Spain also boasts clean air, particularly in mountain and coastal areas.

Siesta health benefits

FOR many expatriates relocating to Spain, the country’s siesta culture, the midday pause in activity, is one of the most noticeable differences from their previous routines. While initially seeming inconvenient, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that aligning with this tradition can bring significant health benefits. The siesta, particularly common in southern regions and smaller towns, involves a break of 20 minutes to two hours after lunch, during which shops may close and many residents rest at home.

Short naps, typically 20-40 minutes, reduce fatigue, improve cognitive function, and boost afternoon alertness. Studies in Mediterranean populations also suggest that regular siestas may support cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure and reducing heart disease risk. Mentally, the pause allows the body and mind to reset, reducing stress and

enhancing emotional resilience - especially valuable for expatriates navigating relocation challenges, language barriers, and work-life adjustments.

Adapting to the siesta requires flexibility, including shifting lunch times, adjusting meal portions, and scheduling work or errands in cooler morning or late afternoon hours. Practical tips include starting with short naps, creating a restful environment, maintaining consistency, and combining midday rest with morning activity for enhanced alertness.

Beyond health benefits, the siesta fosters cultural integration. Participating demonstrates respect for local customs, facilitates social connections, and offers insight into Spanish family life and routines.

Research indicates that regular midday naps may also support cardiovascular health.

Comb through history

LONG before modern haircare science, beauty routines were steeped in tradition and one enduring myth from the Victorian era is the belief that brushing your hair 100 times a day would result in shinier, stronger locks.

This 19th century daily ritual was thought to distribute natural oils from root to tip, boosting health and sheen.

While the idea sounds charmingly nostalgic, modern trichologists disagree. Over-brushing can actually damage hair, causing breakage, split ends and scalp irritation. Today, the advice is far gentler: brush only to detangle and style, using a tool suited to your hair type.

Natural bristle brushes can still help distribute oils, but excessive brushing is no longer seen as beneficial.

A balanced diet and occasional treatments are now the real keys to glossy hair. So, while the 100 strokes a day may be a thing of the past, good hair habits are here to stay.

TOPTrending

Our Fault

THE third and final entry in Mercedes Ron’s hit Culpable trilogy, Our Fault (Culpa Nuestra), features returning lovers Nick and Noah bringing their trademark chemistry to an Ibiza wedding.

brought to you by Revolution Technology

Director Domingo González keeps everything visually irresistible with golden beaches, glimmering dresses, and aching glances, yet the emotional depth from some of the characters barely ripples beneath the surface.

Fans of the first two films will find closure and comfort here, but newcomers may wonder what all the fuss is about. Streaming on Amazon Prime.

Climate Trails

IN Climate Trails, the sky is not the limit; it’s the battleground. This slick yet sobering documentary dives into the controversial world of geoengineering, chemtrails, and atmospheric manipulation. Featuring scientists, activists, and one unnervingly calm military whistleblower, it pieces together a jigsaw of evidence that leaves viewers questioning what’s really going on

above their heads. It doesn’t scream conspiracy but rather whispers it with unsettling precision. While sceptics may dismiss it as paranoia, the documentary deserves credit for encouraging critical thought. Watch it on Amazon Prime.

Starbucks split Europe

STARBUCKS is living a tale of two markets across Europeone cooling down, the other heating up. In the UK, the coffee giant is quietly closing stores after months of weak performance. But in Spain, it’s doing the opposite, expanding its footprint with a brand-new café just outside Madrid.

In Britain, 10 stores have closed in the past month, six of them in London, including long-time favourites for commuters and coffee lovers. Starbucks says the closures are part of a ‘portfolio reassessment’ to ensure each store attracts enough foot traffic to remain profitable.

The company insists this isn’t a retreat but a reset - it still plans to open 80 new UK stores by the end of the financial year. The closures, however, reflect a wider struggle: fewer commuters, rising costs, and a growing shift toward independent cafés that offer cheaper, more personal alternatives.

Meanwhile, in Spain, business is booming. Starbucks has opened a new café in Alcalá de Henares, near Madrid, bringing its total to 165 stores nationwide.

Beyond expansion, the launch also had a social mission - all proceeds from opening

day went to the Red Cross’s ‘Éxito Escolar’ programme, which supports children from vulnerable backgrounds with tutoring and academic help.

The contrast between the two countries highlights Europe’s shifting coffee landscape. In the UK, big chains are struggling with higher rents and fewer office workers, while smaller local cafés thrive. In Spain, Starbucks has found a sweet spot among younger, digital-savvy customers who see it as a workspace and social hub rather than just a coffee stop.

Costa del Sol

Brit tourists rule

COSTA DEL SOL is investing nearly €1 million at World Travel Market (WTM) London to boost British tourism, which rose 1.46 per cent in 2024 and is projected to hit 3.17 million visitors by year-end, generating €4.609 billion in revenue.

UK visitors make up 23.5 per cent of arrivals to Malaga Province and 28 per cent of international tourists to the Costa del Sol. They remain the top foreign market, landing at Andalucia’s airports where 85 per cent of Britons enter Spain.

Francisco Salado, president of Turismo Costa del Sol, called WTM vital. “It’s the key event for our biggest market,” he said. The focus is loyalty and premium segments: off-season culture, beaches, golf, inland trips and nature to extend stays and raise spending.

At ExCeL London (November 4-6), a 250 m² booth joins the Andalucia stand, hosting 70 entities and 30 meetings with ABTA, Jet2Holidays, TUI, EasyJet Holidays and British Airways.

Axarquia Jobs grow with care

VELEZ-MALAGA is stepping up its game when it comes to looking after its elderly and dependent residents.

The municipal home care service, managed by EMVIPSA, has recently undergone a major shake-up, creating 73 new jobs in the process.

According to Jesús Pérez Atencia, council delegate for EMVIPSA, the goal has been simple: make care “faster, closer and more effective” for residents who rely on it every day. Since a full-scale reorganisation began in November 2023, the results have been notable. The number of people receiving support has risen from 1,562 to 1,800, while the number of assigned assistants has grown from 533 to 606.

Among the innovations introduced is a home hairdressing service, launched in February 2024, exclusively for home care users. In just a few months, over 100 appointments have been provided to 408 people, earning praise from both residents and their families.

Mallorca

Living our best lives

THE Balearic Islands are officially leading the way when it comes to living well in Spain. According to the latest report from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the region enjoyed the biggest improvement in quality of life in Spain in 2024, climbing 0.77 points to reach 103.13 on the Multidimensional Quality of Life Index (IMCV). The result places the Balearics sixth overall in Spain.

The INE’s index measures more than just economic performance. It evaluates nine aspects of life - from material living conditions and employment to health, education, safety, environment, and overall life satisfaction.

In 2024, the Balearics improved in nearly every area. The only categories that saw slight declines were personal safety and leisure and social relations.

The average annual income in the Balearic Islands has risen by more than 50 per cent over 10 years, reaching €23,689 in 2024.

Costa Blanca South Music without borders

ROJALES will once again come alive with the rhythms of connection and creativity as it hosts the 18th edition of the ‘Músicas sin Fronteras’ festival until November 28.

Taking place at the town’s Centro Cultural, this year’s programme features six concerts that blend styles, influences, and voices from across the globe, transforming Rojales into a hub of cultural exchange through music.

Each performance promises something unique, with jazz, instrumental fusion, folk, and world-music traditions. The organisers have carefully curated a lineup that not only entertains but also inspires reflection on how music unites people beyond lan guage and geography.

Over nearly a month, audiences will enjoy intimate concerts filled with emotion, artistry, and rhythm - a true feast for the ears and spirit.

Costa Blanca North Gandia’s cancer run

MORE than 5,000 people took to the streets of Gandia for a new edition of the Run Cancer race and walk, organised by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) with support from Gandia Town Council, the Provincial Council of Valencia, CaixaBank and the ‘la Caixa’ Foundation.

“This race was created to help and promote healthy habits, since nutrition and sport play an essential role in both preventing illness and aiding recovery,” said Evelyne Cieslak, president of the local AECC board, speaking to Euro Weekly News.

Under the slogan Gandia Against Cancer by Sklum, the event raised €25,205, which will be devoted entirely to cancer research. The five-kilometre route offered both running and walking options, starting and finishing at Plaza del Prado.

Costa Calida Star support

TENNIS star Carlos Alcaraz made an unexpected but welcome appearance at El Valle Golf Resort in Murcia recently and ended up helping raise money for a good cause.

Louise Eikeland, who lives on the 18th fairway, told us she spotted Alcaraz playing a casual round with three friends. “I just popped out and asked if he would sign a glove for our breast cancer charity event,” she said. “He couldn’t have been nicer.”

The signed glove was later auctioned at the resort’s ‘Play It Pink’ golf tournament, held recently. The event brought together 122 players, all dressed in pink, to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer charities.

“The glove made over €400 in the auction on that night,” Louise said. “So big thanks to Carlos!” The ‘Play It Pink’ event brought everyone together for a friendly round of golf, some laughs, and a great cause.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Villa Blanca in the Zurgena

EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES - Villa Blanca is a larger than average three bed, two bath villa with 8m x 4m swimming pool, H&C air con, carport and pergola on a private, established garden of 453m2. Two minutes walk to a popular bar / restaurant. Five mins drive to La Alfoquia village with shops, butchers, bakery, cafe bar restaurants, bank, doctors, vets, bowls club, etc.

Eight minutes drive to Zurgena village, 10 minutes drive to Arboleas, 12 minutes drive to the major market town of Huercal-Overa, and 25 minutes drive to the coast at Mojacar, Vera and Garrucha.

Villa Blanca has tarmac road access and is part of a medium sized, well maintained development of villas.

Entry into the property is via an electrically opening sliding metal

gate on to a gravelled driveway with room for two cars - plus there is a carport for one car. There is also safe on-road parking.

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Entry into the villa is at the side of the house, into a glazed conservatory with H&C air con and ceiling fan, making an ideal dining/relaxing room.

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There are three large double bedrooms. The main bedroom has an ensuite shower room with a recently fitted walk in shower. All three bedrooms have H&C aircon, ceiling fans and fitted wardrobes. There is also a family shower room - also with recently fitted walk-in shower.

Voss Homes is a British family run business with offices in the nearby village of La Alfoquia, and the thriving market town of Huercal-Overa.

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For more information and to arrange a viewing please contact Voss Homes on 0034 950 616 827 or email us on enquiries@ vosshomesspain.com to make an appointment.

A HIGH-SPEED passenger train carrying around 400 people crashed into a fruit lorry at a level crossing in the Dutch village of Meteren on Friday, October 31, scattering pears across the tracks.

The collision happened at 11.30am on Bredestraat, 50km south of Utrecht. CCTV footage from rail manager ProRail shows the 10-wheeler lorry crossing safely at first, then reversing to avoid road traffic. This left it trapped as barriers closed and alarms sounded. Seconds later, the intercity train ploughed through,

Fruit crash

shredding the trailer and hurling pears, metal and dust everywhere. Thousands of the green fruit burst from bags, squashing against the train’s front. The lorry driver had reportedly lost his temper with a car that gave too little turning space.

All five injured were in the lorry and suffered only minor harm. None of the 200-400 passengers was hurt. They were evacuated quickly and taken by bus to Den Bosch station.

ProRail released the video to warn drivers. A spokesperson said: “Better to damage a barrier than risk a life. If stuck, keep going.” The agency urges lorry and bus drivers to break through if trapped. Damage was extensive: the train was wrecked and a kilometre of track needs replacing. Repairs will continue into the weekend, halting services between Utrecht and Den Bosch. Trains stopped between Geldermalsen and Den Bosch.

PETS

Beau Beau’s big adventure

MEET Beau Beau, a lovable Labradoodle who’s just traded the buzz of Boston for sunny Spain. He’s loving the new smells, palm trees, and warm nap spots - but still figuring out where his humans have hidden the snacks.

When Beau Beau’s family travels, they don’t want him to feel all topsy-turvy again. He’s happiest at home, with his favourite shoe stash and his new Spanish squirrel friends are just outside the window.

He’s a friendly fellow - equal parts cheeky, cuddly, and professional shoe relocator.

Caring for him? Easy. Resisting him? Impossible. Could you be Beau Beau’s next buddy on a pet-sit?

while they’re away. It’s a fair swap:

* Sitters get free, welcoming accommodation (and often a fluffy new friend).

visit Housesitmatch.com and join our community of pet lovers. Peace of mind for owners. Free accommodation for sitters. Happiness for pets.

That’s what we call a paw-sitive exchange! Discover how simple it is to find your perfect pet-sitter at Housesitmatch.com and enjoy your travels knowing your pets are in excellent company.

Lamia Walker - Founder

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Or maybe you’re a pet owner like Beau Beau’s family - someone who’d rather their furry friend stay safe at home instead of in kennels?

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At Housesitmatch.com, we connect caring, checked sitters with pet owners who want peace of mind

* Owners get trusted care for their pets and homes.

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Whether it’s Beau Beau in Spain, a cat with ca-ttitude in Kent, there’s a match for everyone.

So, if you fancy a house-sitting adventure (or need sitters yourself),

“I can highly recommend Hou sesitmatch.com as a very trustworthy house-sitter site. I have had some lovely people come and stay at my house and look after my cats from as far away as Canada. They are always police checked. I also have been away and done some pet-sitting; it’s great fun and Lamia is always on hand to help (even at weekends). Thanks for being so kind, Lamia.” - Client, May 9, 2025

How do you join to find sitters? Register online as a home/pet owner via our website Housesitmatch.com

Cats are like Brown Bears

Even though a bear’s brain is 10 times bigger than a cat’s brain, cats have about the same number of information processing cells. The cerebral cortex of a bear has 251 million cells, while the tabby has about 250 million cells. This still pales in comparison to humans, however as we have up to 26 billion cells in our cerebral cortexes.

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BUILDERS

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

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www. almeria-anglican.com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the

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)

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PETS

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 678 002 006 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 (313361)

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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)

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 / the5bonehotel turre@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: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560

REMOVALS

AMANDA’S REMOVALS SpainUK. We won’t be beaten in

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SITUATIONS VACANT

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

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SOLAR ENERGY

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

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

Spain driving changes

SPAIN’S traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), has introduced new driving rules for motorists aged over 65, affecting around 250,000 drivers nationwide. But contrary to popular fears, this is not about banning older people from driving - it’s about making the roads safer by tailoring driving conditions to each person’s health and reflexes.

The DGT’s new approach replaces blanket assumptions with personalised licence restrictions. Each driver now receives a numerical code printed on the back of their licence, specifying individual conditions such as mandatory glasses, limited driving zones, or restrictions on night-time travel. Officials say the goal is to balance independence with safety, ensuring experienced drivers stay mobile without increasing risk.

With over four million Spaniards aged 65 and above still holding valid licences, data suggests they are not inherently more dangerous than younger motorists. While reaction times may slow, older drivers often compensate through caution, discipline, and experience behind the wheel. The new restrictions vary by individual and may include: avoiding driving at night, staying

within a set geographic area, or having another passenger in the car for added safety. These are safety filters, not penalties, according to the DGT - a modernised, flexible system that adjusts to real-life abilities. Looking ahead, the DGT is also debating shorter licence renewal periods for senior drivers - possibly reducing the current five-year renewal cycle to two years.