Costa del Sol 12 – 18 March 2026 Issue 2123

Dep. Legal MA-74-2004 - ISSN 2488-1562

Costa del Sol I No. 2123 I 12 - 18 March 2026 I FREE Newspaper

A mum’s plea Credit: AF

AUDREY FITZPATRICK RENEWS SEARCH FOR AMY

Renewed search for Amy.

AS Mother’s Day nears, the Costa del Sol has a poignant shadow over one family’s lasting heartache. Amy Fitzpatrick, a spirited Irish teenager, vanished without a trace on New Year’s Day 2008. Her mother Audrey describes her as unforgettable, “No one could ever mistake Amy’s beautiful blue eyes.” Then just 15, Amy and family had been living in Sitio de Calahonda, Mijas when she left a friend’s house in Riviera del Sol around 10pm and never returned home. Eighteen years later, Amy remains missing, her fate a haunting mystery that has gripped the local community and tormented her family.

She would have turned 34 last month, a birthday her sister Kim marks each year with quiet acts of remembrance. Audrey Fitzpatrick, Amy’s devoted mother, refuses to ever surrender. Recently hospitalised and battling illness, she’s now on the mend and reigniting the campaign to find her daughter. “I will never give up,” Audrey vows. She’s again appealing anew to Costa del Sol residents: Has anyone seen Amy? Are whispers of that night still in your memory? Even the smallest detail could bring peace to a mother and family’s shattered heart. In this close-knit expat haven, hope flickers eternal.

Amy, an Irish girl, was 15 at the time, had black hair, blue eyes and was 1.65m tall. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a black

t-shirt with the word ‘Diesel’ on it in different colours. Contact authorities anonymously and help Audrey finally find her girl.

LOCAL NEWS

12 - 18 March 2026

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A-7 repairs mayhem Credit: Ministerio de Transportes

Resurfacing works on A-7. MOTORISTS travelling between Estepona and Casares are facing major delays as essential resurfacing work begins on the notorious A-7 motorway. Central government teams have finally started addressing the deep cracks and ‘bomb crater’ potholes that have plagued this vital Costa del Sol artery for months. The long-overdue upgrades follow a period of intense friction between local and central authorities. In February, Estepona mayor José María García Ur-

bano condemned the lack of maintenance, labelling the deteriorating road ‘deadly’ and demanding more than mere temporary patches. While the current works signal progress, they have also triggered immediate traffic chaos. Daily commutes have seen travel times double as lanes narrow to accommodate asphalt teams. Local authorities have urged patience, citing weather-induced damage as the primary cause for the urgent intervention. Despite signage, the sudden traffic

build-ups have increased accident risks, forcing drivers to seek limited alternative routes. Project Timeline Officials are racing to complete the rehabilitation before the Easter holiday rush. Budget constraints previously stalled the multi-million-euro project, but the current momentum suggests a commitment to restoring safety. For now, speed reductions remain in place. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys until the smooth flow of traffic is restored.

Magic Saturdays Marbella beach art FUENGIROLA Town Hall has announced a new programme of free family entertainment in Miramar with the launch of ‘Sábados Mágicos’. The monthly cycle of magic shows will take place at the Parque del Pulpo. The initiative aims to encourage neighbourhood activity and bring residents together through open-air cultural events. Performances will generally be held one Saturday a month at midday. Confirmed dates are April 4, May 23 and June 13. The project was presented by Fuengirola’s counci-

llor for Fiestas and Citizen Participation, Isabel Moreno, alongside Miramar’s District councillor, José Luis Ponce. Both stressed the importance of taking entertainment and cultural activities into different parts of the town. Moreno said the aim is to “fill our parks with life and create meeting spaces for families, providing free, high-quality leisure alternatives within neighbourhoods.” The shows will be staged by Grupo Más Animación, promising lively and interactive performances designed to surprise and amuse audiences of all ages. Dep. Legal MA-74-2004 - ISSN 2488-1562

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MARBELLA is set to refresh its world-famous coastline by transforming 19 lifeguard towers into unique works of art. This ambitious project aims to blend essential safety infrastructure with a contemporary aesthetic, ensuring the resort maintains its status as a premier Mediterranean destination. Each tower is receiving a bespoke makeover inspired by the local environment. Artists are using vibrant palettes and modern compositions to ensure the structures harmonise with the sea and sand. Despite the artistic overhaul, the towers remain fully functional for surveillance and emergency response, balancing high-end design with public safety. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Marbella’s visual identity. It follows similar heritage-focused projects, such as the artistic painting of traditional Moraga barbecue boats. By integrating

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

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Marbella beaches’ new artistic identity.

innovation with maritime tradition, officials hope to create a cohesive, ‘Instagram-friendly’ environment that appeals to the modern traveller. Work is currently underway and is scheduled for completion by Monday, March 30, ensuring the beaches are ready for the influx of visitors during Semana Santa. By investing in these coastal landmarks, Marbella continues to project an image of dynamism and excellence. This season, holidaymakers can expect a more captivating backdrop to the city’s iconic golden sands and azure waters.

NEWS

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12 - 18 March 2026

Rental reset

Tax shift looms

EVICTION RULES END

CREDIT - Marisa Rodriguez Caballo

Landlords face penalties

Squatters cease to be protected.

SPAIN’S long-standing blanket ‘social shield’ against evictions has officially ended after the lower house rejected a decree to extend protections. The move terminates pandemic-era rules that prevented the removal of vulnerable tenants, restoring legal flexibility for property owners across the country. Protections for genuinely poor people will continue. The moratorium’s expiration addresses a crisis in the rental market. Experts suggest the previous rules inadvertently discouraged owners from renting, fearing ‘squatters’ who exploited the law to avoid payment. This led to plunging availability and soaring prices, particularly in high-demand areas like the Costa del Sol. The new framework introduces structured timelines based on landlord status:

Small Landlords: Social services have two months to find alternative housing for vulnerable tenants before courts proceed with evictions. Large-Scale Owners: Those with 10 or more properties must undergo a five-month mediation phase. If vulnerability is confirmed, an additional four-month window is provided for rehousing. While judicial records show more than 27,500 evictions still occurred in 2024 via complex court proofs, the new system offers a more streamlined path. Approximately 60,000 landlords who faced lost income and legal fees can now pursue compensation. While concerns remain regarding the pressure on social services, the shift signals a return to market stability and a ‘sigh of relief’ for owners and prospective tenants.

Discrimination investigation

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SPAIN’S government has unveiled a proposed fiscal reform that would penalise landlords who raise rents when renewing tenancy contracts, marking a significant shift in housing tax policy. From 2026, landlords who increase rents would lose part of the existing 50 per cent income-tax deduction on rental earnings under the IRPF system. The proposal, advanced by the Ministry of Finance under María Jesús Montero alongside the Ministry of Housing led by Isabel Rodríguez, aims to curb rent inflation and improve affordability. However, it has not yet been formally approved and must pass parliamentary validation via a royal decree law. Property groups warn the policy could worsen Spain’s chronic rental shortage. The Federación Nacional de Asociaciones Inmobiliarias argues that penalising rent increases may push small landlords, who dominate the market, to withdraw properties or sell them, shrinking supply and driving prices higher. Historically, Spain used tax incentives to encourage stable rents. The new approach replaces incentives with penalties, signalling a tougher regulatory stance prioritising tenant protection. Politically, the measure faces negotiation in parliament, where the minority government needs external support. If enacted, it would reshape the tax landscape for landlords while raising concerns that reduced supply could ultimately undermine affordability for tenants. Photo credit: Natalia Deriabina/Shutterstock

GENDER RULES SCRUTINISED SPAIN’S Supreme Court has agreed to review whether the €1,200 annual maternity tax deduction, currently available only to working mothers with children under three, unlawfully discriminates against men. The case follows an appeal by a father previously denied the deduction, arguing that equal parental leave and caregiving responsibilities should allow fathers to claim the benefit. The court’s decision to accept the case does not overturn the deduction but signals a potential reevaluation of gender-based distinctions in tax policy.

Under current law, the deduction is intended to support women’s labour participation and offset early childcare costs, and men are excluded regardless of their caregiving role. Advocates for review argue the law no longer aligns with societal and legal shifts, including equal parental leave rights since 2021. The appeal frames exclusion as potential indirect discrimination against men in materially equivalent situations. The tax authority defends the deduction as addressing structural disadvantages faced by mothers in

the workforce, a rationale upheld in prior regional rulings. If the Supreme Court finds the policy discriminatory, it could expand eligibility to fathers or introduce gender-neutral measures, potentially allowing retroactive claims. Conversely, upholding the law would reinforce gender-specific support measures. The case exemplifies broader debates in Spain regarding the balance between equality, family policy, and targeted social support, with the ruling expected to provide authoritative guidance on gender distinctions in taxation.

Under current law, the deduction is intended to support women’s labour participation.

euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.

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LOCAL NEWS

12 - 18 March 2026

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THE popular Coto restaurant in Benahavis has been forced to close its doors temporarily after heavy rainfall triggered stability concerns on the surrounding hillside. Located on the Ronda Road (A-397), the establishment is a staple of the Costa del Sol’s fine-dining scene, famed for its panoramic views of the Andalucian landscape. Following the recent downpours, Local Police and independent geologists conducted a formal assessment of the terrain situated directly behind the venue. On Wednesday, March 4, authorities instructed the restaurant to cease operations as a precautionary measure while experts evaluate long-term solutions for the slope. In an official statement, the Coto team emphasised that the closure was a proactive step to ensure the well-being of visitors and staff. “The safety of our guests, team, and commu-

Credit: Mijas council

Everyone with Coto Health centre expansion Credit: Coto

La Cala de Mijas health centre expansion.

Coto restaurant with owner/chef Clive.

nity is always our highest priority,” the spokesperson noted, adding that the management is cooperating fully with relevant officials. Staff are currently contacting guests with existing reservations to arrange cancellations or updates. While no reopening date has been confirmed, the management has pledged to provi-

de further information via their website and social media channels as the geological review progresses. The local community has already voiced strong support for the venue, which remains one of the region’s most cherished culinary landmarks, and everyone, Euro Weekly too, eagerly awaits their reopening.

RESIDENTS of La Cala de Mijas are set to benefit from a major expansion of local medical services. Mijas Council has officially handed over a 2,400-square-metre plot of land adjacent to the existing health centre to the Andalucian regional government, clearing the way for vital infrastructure upgrades. Mayor Ana Mata formally proposed the development in a letter to Health councillor Antonio Sanz, highlighting the site’s easy accessibility for both pedestrians and drivers. The expansion aims to address the urgent needs of a rapidly growing population, which sees a consistent influx of new residents and tourists. A primary focus of the proposal is the introduction of 24-hour emergency services,

a long-awaited addition for the coastal community. By providing round-the-clock urgent care, the project will ensure that residents can receive essential treatment close to home, significantly reducing the pressure on existing regional facilities. This initiative follows the announcement in January regarding a new High-Resolution Processes Centre (CARP) in Las Lagunas. Together, these projects represent a coordinated effort between the town hall and regional authorities to modernise public health infrastructure. Local leaders remain committed to delivering superior public services, ensuring that medical support keeps pace with the area’s demographic expansion and the demands of modern urban living.

12 - 18 March 2026

LOCAL NEWS

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Golf buggy blaze A SPECTACULAR fire erupted late at night on Friday, March 6, at the prestigious Real Club de Golf Guadalmina in Marbella, destroying nearly 100 electric golf buggies. The blaze, which broke out in the designated storage and charging area in San Pedro de Alcantara, resulted in estimated losses exceeding €1 million. Marbella firefighters rushed to the scene, successfully containing the flames before they could spread to the clubhouse or surrounding properties. No injuries were reported, but the fleet was entirely incinerated. Each buggy is valued at approximately €10,000. While an official investigation is ongoing, authorities suspect the fire originated within the charging systems. This incident marks the first major fire of its kind at a Spanish golf course, though similar blazes linked to lithium-ion batteries have recently devastated clubs in Australia and the United States. The loss of the fleet is expected to cause major disruption at the popular resort, which features two renowned 18-hole courses. Many players rely on

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Firefighters lithium-ion blazing golf carts.

the buggies to navigate the club’s expansive, hilly terrain. Management is now tasked with sourcing replacements to restore full operations. The incident has intensified global concerns regarding the safety of battery-powered equipment. Safety experts are calling for more stringent charging protocols and enhanced fire prevention measures to mitigate the risks inherent in large-scale electric vehicle storage.

Seatbelt crackdown Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena.

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Benalmadena Local Police.

BENALMADENA Local Police have launched a targeted road safety campaign to enforce the use of seatbelts and child restraint systems. Running until Sunday, March 15, the week-long operation sees officers collaborating with Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) to conduct intensified roadside checks across the town. Authorities are specifically monitoring urban roads and short-distance trips, where compliance can often slip. The message from officials is clear:

the risk of serious injury or death in a collision is dramatically reduced by buckling up, regardless of the journey’s length. A primary focus of the campaign is the protection of young passengers. Officers are verifying that children are secured in approved child restraint systems (SRI) that are correctly fitted for their height and weight. Consistent and proper installation is vital to ensuring these systems provide the necessary protection during an accident.

This initiative is part of the DGT’s 2026 strategic calendar, which includes approximately 15 specialised operations throughout the year to reduce road fatalities. This follows previous local campaigns targeting school transport and heavy vehicles earlier this year. Drivers are reminded that failing to wear a seatbelt, or ensuring passengers are restrained, carries a €200 fine. Police urge motorists to adopt the habit as ‘life insurance’ before every journey.

LOCAL NEWS

PRESS RELEASE

ANNOUNCEMENT!!

12 - 18 March 2026

Copper cable theft

Cars and Coffee meet, Centro Plaza THE Classic & Sportscar Club are always coming up with innovative ideas for events to get people together and make a social occasion out of cars and, following the success of the last two events, will be doing this again on Sunday. On Sunday, March 15 the third of what is hoped will be a monthly meeting of motoring enthusiasts over coffee and breakfast will take place at Yanx American Diner in Nueva Andalucia / Puerto Banus. Enthusiasts can bring their cars along to Centro Plaza any time from 10.00am to 1.00pm, park up, meet with friends or other enthusiasts and enjoy coffee or breakfast whilst perusing other interesting vehicles which will be on display. Cars pay a registration fee of €15 but that includes €10 to spend in Yanx. This type of event has become popular in the UK and is catching on in other countries too. Membership of a club is not necessary to participate; all that is needed is an interesting motor car to show off!

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Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mijas

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Damaged lamposts by blundered theft attempt.

For further information, or to register in advance, contact the organisers csccspain@gmail.com.

VANDALS have once again targeted public infrastructure in Mijas, sabotaging street lighting along the road connecting the Lagar Martell urbanisation to La Cala Golf. In a calculated night-time attack, perpetrators tampered with individual differentials in each lamppost. Their objective was to loosen electrical lines and use a vehicle to rip the cabling from the ground. While the thieves failed to extract the copper, the sabotage caused extensive damage and a total blackout in the area. Mijas Town Hall operational services responded on Sunday, March 8, beginning immediate repairs to restore visibility and ensure safety for residents and drivers on the busy route.

This incident is part of a decade-long struggle against metal theft in the region. Since 2012, Mijas has seen thousands of metres of cable stolen from sites including La Ponderosa and Mijas Pueblo. High scrap values continue to fuel these opportunistic crimes, which frequently affect the wider Andalucia region. Local authorities are now conducting infrastructure reviews and increasing monitoring to deter criminals, who often pose as utility workers. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. The town hall guarantees anonymity for all tip-offs. If you see anything unusual, please contact the Local Police on 952 460 808 or 952 460 909.

FEATURE/LOCAL NEWS

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12 - 18 March 2026

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lifestyle first, tax second: Why that order matters

SPAIN consistently ranks amongst the best places to live in Europe. It is no surprise that so many people decide to make it their home. However, when I speak to clients considering the move, the conversation often stalls at tax. Some believe other countries offer more attractive tax regimes, and fear that by choosing Spain,

they may be sacrificing financial security for lifestyle. However, with proper planning, many clients are in a better financial position after moving to Spain. Recently, I worked with a couple in their early 60s who, after decades of holidaying in Spain and wanting to retire here, hesitated due to concerns about better tax options elsewhere. They consulted me to understand what the move entailed. The timeline for our agreed plan began before they became Spanish tax residents. First, they were able to sell their UK home free of capital gains tax because it was their primary residence. Next, we withdrew the savings from their ISAs, which would not retain the same tax advantages

once living in Spain. Finally, we reviewed their pensions; both were able to withdraw their 25 per cent tax-free lump sums before establishing Spanish residency. The result was transformational. The couple had sufficient free capital to purchase their dream home in Andalucia outright and make it their own. Since they would be over 65 if they sold the Spanish home,

they would be exempt from capital gains tax. We restructured their remaining cash into a Spanish-compliant investment to ensure steady growth, avoiding annual taxes from bank interest or ISAs. We could control their annual income to keep tax exposure low while maintaining flexibility. When we reviewed their inheritance position, we showed their children would inherit nearly tax-free under Andalucia’s rules, a better long-term position than the UK. Overall, their finances were arranged so that tax is applied only where needed and at low levels, ensuring full access to their wealth. Many couples hold back from their ideal location due to fears of taxes, but taxes can often be

managed through careful structuring. Time spent living where you truly want is irreplaceable. For many, it’s a life decision, not just about taxes. Our approach is simple: Lifestyle first, tax second. Prioritise your lifestyle and structure finances accordingly; when done right, both tend to fall into place. As a Chartered Wealth Manager in Spain, I assist British expatriates seeking clarity before big decisions. Whether you’re contemplating a move or already relocated and uncertain about your arrangements, I’m happy to have an initial chat. A timely review can make a real difference.

To find out more or read Jett’s other articles, visit www.spectrum-ifa.com or scan the QR Code. Jett Parker-Holland: +34 677 124 364 / Jett.parker-holland@spectrum-ifa.com

San Pedro bus hub begins. The facility is expected to handle over 100 daily bus departures on weekdays, with significantly higher volumes during the peak summer tourist season. The project is a joint venture between the Junta de Andalucia and Marbella City Council. The regional government will manage the design and construction, while the council

provides the municipal plot and assumes future maintenance. For years, residents have faced long queues at roadside stops and poor connectivity. This new hub will resolve these long-standing mobility issues, linking the Costa del Sol with Ronda and the provinces of Cadiz and Granada. By consolidating operations into one dedicated location, authorities

Credit: Huete Architects

THE Andalucian regional government has announced plans to construct a new transport interchange in San Pedro Alcantara, Marbella, with completion set for the end of 2026. The €1.7 million project hopes to revolutionise local public transport by centralising services that are currently scattered across various avenues and the A-7 motorway. Officials have confirmed that the technical design contract has been awarded, marking a vital step before the construction tender

Design for new bus hub in San Pedro Alcantara.

hope to improve the daily commute for residents and enhance travel for visitors.

LOCAL NEWS

10 12 - 18 March 2026

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Empty second homes on the Costa del Sol can be vulnerable.

AN Austrian couple living in Miami has fallen victim to a brazen real estate scam after their beachfront villa in Marbella was sold from under them without their consent or knowledge. The property, located in the prestigious Costabella urbanisation, was fraudulently transferred for just €320,000, a figure real estate experts describe as ‘absurdly low’ for a first-line Mediterranean home. The transaction was finalised before a notary using forged passports and a counterfeit power of attorney. The

buyers, a newly formed company with minimal capital, paid an impostor posing as the owners’ representative via cheque. The legitimate owners, who continued paying maintenance and bills from abroad, only discovered the crime recently, when intruders triggered the property’s alarm. Upon arrival, police were presented with property registry documents appearing to show the ‘squatters’ as the legal owners. Investigating courts in Fuengirola are now probing the case, which bears the

hallmarks of organised crime targeting vacant holiday homes. A judge has issued an immediate ban on any further sale or encumbrance of the villa. Meanwhile, Interpol is verifying the fraudulent documents used in the heist. Legal representative Samuel Mandri warned that while such scams are rare, they highlight the vulnerability of empty second homes on the Costa del Sol. The primary suspect, who claims to be ill, is currently in Germany awaiting a video-link testimony.

SAN PEDRO ALCANTARA is undergoing a transformation as local authorities invest in pedestrian safety and the preservation of its mid-19th-century roots. The initiatives, led by Marbella Council, hope to modernise the district’s infrastructure while safeguarding its unique history. Pedestrian Upgrades Work has concluded on a €48,000 renovation of Avenida Virgen del Rocio, a primary artery connecting the north and souInspecting the new safety measures. th of the urban core. The two-month project tackled lla. This centenarian building was a hazardous pavements damaged by incornerstone of the original agricultural vasive tree roots, which had become a colony but has recently suffered from significant risk to elderly residents. neglect. Crews renewed 300 square metres of The structure is now being included surface, expanded tree pits, and instain the municipal catalogue of protected lled compliant kerbs to improve accesbuildings. Plans are underway to declasibility. These improvements are part of re the site of historical public interest, the broader Urban Regeneration Plan, potentially leading to its conversion designed to create a more secure enviinto a cultural centre or gallery. Essenronment for the high volume of daily tial safety measures have been ordered footfall in the area. to address the building’s decay, ensuOfficials have also moved to protect ring this landmark remains a proud the historic economato on Calle Revisymbol of the town’s pioneering spirit. Credit: Tenencia de Alcaldía San Pedro

Credit: Tenencia de Alcaldía San Pedro

Marbella fraud San Pedro gets fixed

LOCAL NEWS

Credit: Farutxo - Shutterstock

Laundry crackdown

Doing one’s laundry in public.

RESIDENTS of Torremolinos may soon be prohibited from hanging laundry on balconies overlooking public streets. Led by Mayor Margarita del Cid, the local council is advancing a new urban aesthetics ordinance aimed at boosting the town’s visual appeal and unifying building standards. The proposal targets ‘visual pollution’ stemming from the 1960s tourism boom. The rules prohibit drying clothes, towels, or storing bulky appliances on public-facing facades. Officials argue the measure is essential to modernising the Costa del Sol resort, though they suggest a ‘preventive approach’ will be taken, with fines unlikely in cases of genuine hardship. The plan has sparked heated debate. Opposition critics have condemned the rules as ‘classist’, arguing they ignore the reality of lower-income households living in cramped flats without tumble dryers or internal courtyards. In response, the council maintains that exceptions will ensure practicality while reducing urban clutter. Torremolinos follows a growing trend across Spain; Barcelona and Madrid already enforce similar bans, while Sevilla launched a campaign against visible washing lines four years ago. Conversely, a 2022 attempt to ban laundry in Naples was withdrawn following a public outcry. The ordinance now awaits a period for public objections before a final plenary vote decides the future of the town’s skylines.

ORGANIC supermarket leader Veritas has strengthened its presence on the Costa del Sol with a new branch opening in Mijas. Located in the Miramar commercial park, the 400-square-metre store marks the company’s third site in the region following two successful launches in Estepona last year. The supermarket will stock over 6,000 certified organic products, focusing on sustainability and health. To support the local economy, Veritas has hired nine residents and will prioritise seasonal produce

12 - 18 March 2026

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Veritas expands in Malaga from the Guadalhorce Valley, Marbella, and the Axarquia region. All items are free from synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, with the range including 550 affordable own-brand products. “Our entire range is certified organic, sustainable, and fair trade,” a spokesperson confirmed. To mark the opening, shoppers can access a 30 per cent discount on selected items until March 25, alongside a raffle offering a year of free groceries. Credit: veritas.es

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Inside Veritas in Barcelona.

Founded in Barcelona in 2002, Veritas was the first European supermarket to achieve B Corp certification. The chain now operates 95 stores across Spain and Andorra, reporting a

2024 revenue of €122 million. With a recent opening in La Coruña and a growing food service division, the company aims to reach 100 supermarkets by the end of 2026.

12 12 - 18 March 2026

LOCAL NEWS

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FRUSTRATED by life in the UK and seeking a healthier lifestyle for their two children, Stacey and Andi swapped England for the hills of Andalucia. What began as a brave leap into the unknown has rapidly blossomed into a thriving Spanish business empire. The couple initially relocated with Stacey continuing her UK recruitment business remotely. However, they soon identified a curious gap in the Spanish market: high-quality, cold-pressed juice for the B2B market. After several curious heads poked around the door to see what they were up to, and liked it, they decided to open a boutique juice bar and cafe, Andajuicya. Despite critics suggesting they stick to ‘English breakfasts’ and the like, the couple followed their instincts. Their venture, Andajuicya, stands as a testament to their vision. The stylish cafe offers 100 per cent

Credit: GS FB

Living the expat dream Port statues scandal

CREDIT: EWN

Andi and Stacey took a brave leap into the unknown.

raw, preservative-free juices and nutritious dishes. It has become a bilingual community hub, attracting both Spanish and expats. “The cold-pressed market here was practically non-existent,” Andi said, explaining that they now supply luxury residences in Madrid and hotels across the country. The transition was not without ‘nightmare’ administrative hurdles,

from residency cards to school enrolments. Yet, their children have thrived, and the business is expanding through franchising across Spain. Stacey and Andi have proven that with a bit of entrepreneurial spirit, the British dream of a prosperous life in Spain is alive. Find Andajuicya at Carretera de Cartama 4, Alhaurin el Grande. Tel: 722 320 433.

Ginés Serrán Pagán with one of his creations.

MALAGA’S port authority has approved the installation of monumental bronze statues by artist Ginés Serrán Pagán, sparking a fierce cultural debate. While supporters view the works as a daring tribute to maritime heritage, critics have branded the collection ‘kitsch’ and compared the figures to Marvel superheroes. It has been confirmed that the board voted overwhelmingly to allow the ensemble, titled Las Columnas del Mar, to be placed at the Plaza de la Marina entrance. However, the approval is strictly temporary. Carlos Rubio, president of the Port Authority, emphasised that the display is limited to six months to address public outcry.

The project faced significant opposition from the UGT union and the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Telmo, which condemned the sculptures as ‘pseudo-neoclassicism’ unfit for the historic port. The centrepiece is a 10.5-metre Neptune holding a gold-plated fishing net, accompanied by a 5-metre Venus and two 750-kilo lions. Serrán, who dedicated the work to his Malaga-born father, urged residents to judge the art firsthand. Despite initial plans for a 25-year stay, the backlash forced authorities to compromise on a short-term exhibition. Unless regional cultural bodies intervene, the bronzes will be relocated to a less prominent site after the six-month period concludes.

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LOCAL NEWS

12 - 18 March 2026

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Marbella unveils major parking and sports project.

area while providing residents with additional infrastructure. She confirmed that the initiative includes spaces for both rotating use and residents, plus new outdoor sports areas. With a combined investment exceeding €24 million, the project’s planning and construction have been tendered together, with work expected to start this year.

Carolina España added that the agreement will benefit residents, young people using the hostel, and local authorities alike. The planned facilities include a multi-sport court, an adjoining service building, picnic areas, a green pitch to be used for sports, and a dedicated bus loading zone on Calle Trapiche, while the hostel will have access to 80 underground spaces.

FUENGIROLA is set to host its first Classic Cars Rally on Sunday, March 22, at the Recinto Ferial. Organised by the Club Retro Sport in partnership with the town hall, the event brings together motor enthusiasts and owners of historic vehicles. The rally has a charitable aim: all entry fees, set at €10 per participant, will be donated to AVOI, the Asociación de Voluntarios de Oncología Infantil. The day begins at 9.00 with the arrival and registration of vehicles, followed by a parade and aperitif at 11.00. Participants and visitors can then enjoy lunch at the fairground at 14.00. The programme concludes with an award ceremony

at 16.00, recognising the best car in each age category. Local councillor for Sport, Julio Rodríguez, and Los Boliches deputy mayor, Rosa Ana Bravo, presented the initiative, stressing its dual purpose: to celebrate historic vehicles and to support a worthy cause. Spaces are limited, and entries must be submitted by March 15. Anyone wishing to take part or seeking more details can contact the organisers on 622 185 120. The event is supported by several local businesses and organisations, aiming to engage collectors, enthusiasts, and the wider public in a day of automotive history and community spirit. Credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola

MARBELLA is set to see a major infrastructure upgrade after the town hall and the Junta de Andalucia signed an agreement for the free transfer of 8,580 square metres at the Albergue África youth hostel site. The deal aims to create a subterranean car park with around 600 spaces, alongside new sports facilities and green areas above ground. The agreement, signed in Sevilla by Mayor Ángeles Muñoz, the Minister for Economy, Carolina España, and the Minister for Social Inclusion, Loles López, ensures that the city council will only need to cover construction costs, as the land has been provided without charge. Mayor Muñoz described the arrangement as ‘excellent news for Marbella’, noting that the project will relieve parking pressure in the

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Marbella parking boost Classic cars rally

Register by March 15 to take part.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Credit: MickeyMania

Disney artists visit K-Pop day announced

Jon Valera, and artists Cynthia C Pineda and Marga Querol at the presentation of Club Mickey at the Comic and Illustration Museum in Barcelona last November.

TWO Spanish artists behind many adventures of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck will take part in this year’s COMICMED festival in Malaga. Illustrators Marga Querol and Cynthia C Pineda are among the main guests at the second edition of the comic and graphic novel gathering, which runs from March 19 to 21 at the Polo de Contenidos Digitales in the former Tabacalera complex. The event is organised by the Fundación Tres Culturas with support from the digital content hub and Malaga City Council. The Barcelona-based artists will appear in a discussion titled Disney con trazo Mediterráneo on Thursday March 19 at 17.00. During the session they will speak about their work producing Disney comic stories read worldwide.

The talk, hosted by the Mickeymanía project led by Jon Valera and Elena Pérez, will also include a historical overview and lesser-known facts about Disney comics. The festival also aims to recognise the role of women in the international comic industry. Last year’s edition featured several female creators, including Malaga-born Marvel artists Natacha Bustos and Carmen Carnero. To attend, or to view the full COMICMED programme, register for free through https:// tresculturas.org/actividad/comicmed-2026. Malaga also has longstanding links with Disney culture. In 1935 the city became home to the first local branch of a fan club linked to the Barcelona publication Revista Mickey, a connection recently commemorated with a plaque in the Soho district.

FUENGIROLA Town Hall has confirmed a new K-Pop event aimed at young people in the town. The free gathering will take place on April 11 from 15.00 at the Caseta de la Juventud in the Recinto Ferial. The initiative will feature themed stands, interactive workshops, live displays and a range of activities designed to encourage participation and socialising, with a clear focus on the world of K-Pop. The presentation was led by Youth councillor Isaac Vargas, alongside Daría Alexa and Noemí Úbeda, representatives of the K-Pop Fuengirola association, which is collaborating on the event. Vargas said the council is committed to providing dynamic spaces where young people can enjoy their free time, share interests and strengthen relationships with

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola

Fuengirola to host free K-pop youth event.

their peers. He added that such initiatives have become a benchmark for healthy and inclusive leisure, increasingly valued by the town’s younger generation. Noemí Úbeda confirmed there will be a bar area and Asian food available during the afternoon, allowing attendees to eat while taking

part in the workshops and displays. Daría Alexa described the event as an opportunity for young people to come together, share hobbies and enjoy an afternoon centred on culture and creativity. The council has encouraged residents to attend and support this latest youth initiative.

SPANISH NEWS/FEATURE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Modernisation and expansion.

SPAIN has announced a major €12.9 billion investment to modernise and expand its airports, a move that could significantly affect travellers, tourism and the country’s large expatriate population. The state-owned airport operator Aena revealed plans to upgrade key transport hubs across the country between 2027 and 2031. The programme will focus on increasing passenger capacity, improving infrastructure and modernising terminals to cope with growing travel demand. Airports in major destinations such as Madrid,

Barcelona and Palma are expected to see some of the most significant upgrades. Improvements are likely to include expanded terminals, better transport connections and more efficient passenger processing systems. Spain remains one of the world’s most visited countries, welcoming more than 85 million international tourists in recent years. Officials say the investment will help ensure the country’s airports can handle future demand while improving the overall travel experience. For expatriates and

frequent travellers, the upgrades could mean smoother journeys, shorter queues and more flight routes in the coming years. However, some projects may also bring temporary disruption during construction phases. Tourism continues to be a key pillar of Spain’s economy, and the airport overhaul is part of a wider strategy to support sustainable growth while strengthening the country’s global travel connections. If approved, the investment will represent one of the largest aviation infrastructure programmes in Spain in decades.

Spain’s equality journey SPAIN has emerged as a European leader in gender equality, yet as 2026 unfolds, the nation faces a complex dichotomy of legislative triumph and stubborn cultural remnants of the past. Data from the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) places Spain fourth in the EU, scoring 70.9 out of 100. Approved on December 30, 2025, the mandate requires 40 per cent female representation in cabinet roles and corporate boards. To mark International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8, the government launched the ‘Mujeres de alto valor’ campaign to further dismantle professional stereotypes. However, economic parity remains elusive. Women still face an adjusted pay gap of 13 per cent,

which spikes to 27 per cent in regions like Andalucia due to the prevalence of part-time work and care responsibilities. More concerning is a cultural ‘regression’ among younger men. A recent Ipsos study revealed that 31 per cent of Generation Z men believe a wife should obey her husband - a figure double that of the ‘Baby Boomer’ generation. The most sombre reminder of the work ahead is the persistence of gender-based violence. While 2025 saw a record low of 46 fatalities, the trend has sharpened in the new year. Twelve women have already been killed by partners or ex-partners, sparking urgent calls for social reform.

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SPANISH NEWS

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are the result of Saharan dust mixing with Storm Regina, producing the phenomenon sometimes called mud rain or calima rain. This occurs when a weather system carrying rain passes through air filled with

dust particles blown north from the Sahara. As raindrops fall through this dusty atmosphere, they collect the particles and deposit them on surfaces, leaving cars, terraces and streets covered in a thin layer of brown residue. According to meteorologists and weather platform Meteored, the current episode is linked to a frontal system moving across southern Spain while Saharan dust remains suspended in the atmosphere. Meteorologist José Miguel Viñas says the combination of rain and airborne dust produces the characteristic muddy rainfall. The effect has been most noticeable in Andalucia, where residents woke to vehicles and outdoor surfaces coated in dried mud after overnight rain. adura and the Madrid region. For many, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, the event is a familiar but frustrating feature of Spain’s climate.

Mercadona cuts prices on 200 products, including eggs after months of rises.

THE average Mercadona grocery shop just got cheaper, according to Food Retail & Service (FRS). The chain has reduced prices on more than 200 products, including rice, cheese, coffee, biscuits, pork, cold cuts, and eggs. Egg prices, which have soared over the past year, are among the most affected, with a carton increasing by more than 30 per cent in 12 months. The reductions, which began in early March, are part of Mercadona’s ‘shopping cart menu’ strategy, designed to make essential weekly groceries more affordable. A 24-egg carton now costs €5.60, down from €5.75, while a dozen extra-large eggs has fallen from €4.40 to €4.30. Large eggs are €3.20, medium

€3.00, a dozen free-range eggs €3.50, and a half-dozen free-range eggs €2.10. The egg price drop comes after months of increases linked to severe avian flu outbreaks, which led to the culling of millions of laying hens, combined with rising production costs and strong demand. The broader price reduction affects a wide range of products, giving shoppers an overall more affordable basket. The move follows Mercadona’s decision to award a €5,400 net bonus for February 2026 to around 70 per cent of its workforce, and to extend staff holidays from 30 to 37 days, adding an extra week of paid leave.

European airport excellence Credit : rafaelnlins, Shutterstock

IF your car in Spain suddenly appears coated in brown dust after rain, the cause lies thousands of kilometres away in the Sahara Desert. Meteorologists say the muddy showers currently appearing across parts of the country

Photo Credit: Mercadona

Saharan mud rain Food price cuts

Madrid-Barajas has been ranked among Europe’s best airports for customer experience in 2025.

SPAIN has secured a place among Europe’s top airports for 2025, with Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport recognised as one of the continent’s best in the latest Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards. Organised annually by Airports Council International (ACI World), the rankings draw on feedback from more than 700,000 passengers worldwide, providing a comprehensive measure of airport experience. In the category for airports handling over 40 million passengers a year, Madrid-Barajas and Rome Fiumicino Airport emerged as Europe’s leading performers. Madrid, Europe’s fifth busiest airport, and Rome, eighth, were praised for maintaining efficient services and a positive passenger environment despite high volumes. Other European winners included Copenhagen, Vienna and Zurich in the 25-40 million

passengers category, and Gran Canaria Airport, Helsinki and Prague in the 15-25 million group. No European airport featured among the global leaders for arrivals this year. The ASQ programme also highlighted airports offering the most effortless travel experience. Spain featured again, with Barcelona-El Prat and Reus recognised alongside Rome Fiumicino, Milan Linate, Izmir Adnan Menderes, Skopje and Tbilisi. Rankings reflect passenger priorities such as smooth security, clear signage, helpful staff and comfortable terminals. Now in its 20th year, the ASQ awards rely entirely on surveys conducted at departure and arrival gates, with travellers randomly asked to evaluate services from check-in to food and cleanliness. The results show European airports are continuing to improve passenger experience amid growing travel demand.

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SPANISH LIVING/NEWS

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The family moved to Lanjaron, a better-connected village.

sional bullying, even from teachers. After a year, the family moved to Lanjaron, a better-connected village offering larger schools and more amenities while retaining natural surroundings. To establish permanent roots, they purchased and renovated a traditional Andalucian cortijo, navigating challenges such as overcharging and language barriers. Over time, improved Spa-

nish skills and community integration eased these difficulties. The family’s story exemplifies early lifestyle migration, illustrating resilience, adaptation, and the pursuit of a slower, more meaningful life in rural Spain. Their decision, initially unplanned, became the foundation for a new life built on exploration, family cohesion, and embracing the unknown.

Credit: Pexels

BRITS planning trips to Spain could see slightly higher airfares this spring as the UK government increases Air Passenger Duty (APD) on short-haul flights. The change will take effect on April 1 and applies to passengers flying from UK airports to destinations across Europe, including Spain. Air Passenger Duty is a tax charged on flights departing the UK. Airlines include the levy in the price of tickets, meaning travellers usually pay it automatically when they book. Under the new rates, passengers flying in economy class on short-haul routes such as Spain will see the tax rise from £13 to £15 per ticket. For travellers flying in premium cabins, including business class or premium economy, the duty will increase from £28 to £32. For most holidaymakers heading to Spain on low-cost airlines, the change means fares could rise by around £2 per ticket. Spain is one of the most popular destinations for British tourists, with millions flying to hotspots such as Mallorca, Ibiza and the Costa del Sol every year. Because the tax is built into ticket prices, passengers won’t usually see it listed separately. However, increases can

Flights to Spain gets pricier. still affect overall fares. For families or groups booking several flights, the extra cost may add up - though for most travellers the rise will be relatively small.

Spain’s employment contracts SPAIN’S labour market offers diverse employment contracts, governed primarily by the Workers’ Statute. Understanding these arrangements is crucial, especially for foreign workers, as contracts differ in security, benefits, and flexibility. Permanent contracts (contrato indefinido) provide ongoing employment with full rights, including paid leave, social security, and protection against unfair dismissal. Redundancy compensation is calculated

based on salary and tenure. Temporary contracts, restricted after 2021 reforms, cover specific projects or replacement roles and offer fewer security guarantees despite standard labour rights. Fixed-discontinuous contracts (contrato fijo discontinuo) apply to seasonal work in tourism, agriculture, or education, retaining permanent status with recurring inactive periods. Training and apprenticeship contracts target young workers, combining

professional experience with formal instruction, while part-time contracts allow fewer hours with proportional rights and benefits. Across all contracts, workers receive core protections, including 30 days’ paid leave, social security, minimum wage, and safeguards against discrimination. For expats, selecting the correct contract type impacts job stability, benefits eligibility, and pension contributions. Photo credit: South Pixels /Shutterstock

IN January 1998, Brianne and George, a British couple from Kent, embarked on a transformative three-month road trip across Europe with their three young children, seeking a healthier, freer lifestyle. Travelling in a Volkswagen camper van with only essentials and their dog, the family prioritised experiences over destinations, making stops in Paris and enjoying Disneyland before continuing south to Spain. Their journey emphasised immersion in local life, with an initial extended stay in Pontevedra to understand the region before exploring areas near Madrid and finally the southern province of Granada. The family discovered the village of Bubion in the Alpujarra mountains, enchanted by its scenic landscapes and tranquil pace. However, the isolation posed challenges: limited social opportunities for the children, language barriers in school, and occa-

Photo credit: Alexander Sánchez

Journey to Spain UK flight tax increase

For expats, selecting the correct contract type impacts job stability, benefits eligibility, and pension contributions

EUROPRESS

Credit: Anze Furlan - Shutterstock

High-speed rail future

High-speed connection departing Madrid.

PORTUGAL and Spain have formalised a major agreement to link Lisbon and Madrid by high-speed rail, targeting completion by 2034. Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced the firm timeline during the 36th Hispano-Portuguese Summit in Huelva. Major progress has already been made on the Portuguese side, with the section connecting Evora to the Spanish border now complete. Beyond the capital link, the summit prioritised a southern route connecting Faro, Huelva, and Sevilla to strengthen economic ties between the Algarve and Andalucia. Meanwhile, the Lisbon-Porto-Vigo corridor remains on schedule for 2033. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sán-

chez pledged to expedite bilateral investments, saying that modernised infrastructure is critical for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the two nations will co-host with Morocco. The upgraded network is expected to support seamless mobility for millions of fans during the tournament. The joint declaration also includes feasibility studies for an Aveiro-Salamanca line, reflecting a shared vision for a unified Iberian transport system. These projects align with European Commission goals for sustainable travel, hoping to slash carbon emissions while improving cross-border trade. With clear deadlines established, the peninsula moves closer to a future defined by rapid, eco-friendly connectivity and stronger diplomatic unity.

BELGIAN extreme sports enthusiast Koen Darras is preparing to become the first person to cross the Atlantic Ocean solo by kitesurf. The 37-year-old from Torhout plans to begin his daring 5,000-kilometre (3,000 nautical mile) odyssey on November 1, 2026. The expedition will launch from the Canary Islands, heading to Cape Verde before the final push toward the Caribbean. Darras intends to harness the powerful trade winds to maintain momentum, aiming to cover approximately 170 kilometres daily. He expects to spend 10 hours a day on his board, with the entire voyage projected to take between 30 and 40 days. While a support sailboat will shadow him for nightly rest and

Credit: KD

Atlantic kitesurf challenge

Koen Darras preparing to take on the Atlantic.

emergency safety, the crossing relies entirely on Darras’s physical endurance. An experienced mountaineer who has summited the Eiger and Mont Blanc, Darras is well-versed in high-stakes environments. Beyond the sporting achievement, the journey serves a scientific purpose. In collaboration with researchers, Darras will monitor

water temperatures, salinity, and microplastic levels to contribute to marine conservation data. Supported by a team of weather specialists and navigation experts, Darras is poised to redefine the boundaries of ocean exploration. If successful, his journey will mark a significant milestone in the history of wind-powered adventure.

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Wolf rescue

FIREFIGHTERS in San Giovanni Lupatoto, near Verona, Italy, rescued a female wolf trapped in a canal. Spotted by local residents, the wolf had fallen into the water and was unable to escape due to steep, slippery banks. Emergency services deployed an inflatable boat and used nets and sedation to safely extract the stressed animal. The wolf was then examined by veterinarians and showed The wolf was examined by veterinarians and showed no serious injuries, thouno serious injuries. gh it experienced exhaustion and mild stress. The rescued wolf was transported blic attention via social media. The into a veterinary facility for observation cident reminds us of the importance of before planned release into the wild. awareness, preparedness, and trained Authorities emphasised returning respersonnel in regions where wildlife cued wildlife to maintain ecosystem encounters can occur. Experts advise balance. The operation highlighted the communities to report distressed anineed for coordinated responses to humals promptly, ensuring both human man-wildlife interactions, particularly safety and animal welfare. as wolves have increasingly returned With the wolf expected to return to to northern Italy due to conservation its natural habitat the rescue illustrameasures. tes a successful collaboration between Local officials and wildlife experts emergency services and conservation applauded the rescue, which drew puauthorities in safeguarding wildlife.

Photo credit: Vigili del Fuoco

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FINANCE Funding secured

SPANISH space transportation company, PLD Space, recently raised €180 million in funding, largely thanks to support from Japan’s Mitsubishi Electric. This brings the funds raised to €350 million making regular space missions a real possibility. As a global leader in satellites and defence, Mitsubishi Electric’s support will be invaluable.

FOLLOWING Australia’s monumental decision to ban social media to those under 16, other governments are considering following in their footsteps. However, this ban affects more than just the teenagers as big tech companies will feel their absence acutely. With the

MAKRO plans to double its business and reach €3 billion in sales in Spain by 2030. To do so, the company will strengthen its logistics network and expand into delivery service specifically to the hospitality sector, which already contributes 30 per cent of Makro’s business.

NON-CONTRIBUTORY retirement pensions have been introduced to ensure those who haven’t contributed sufficient Social Security will still receive a minimum monthly income and social assistance. Housewives, for example, who dedicated themselves to maintaining a home but didn’t earn a wage, may now be eligible for an €8,803.20 annual pension.

Defence surge

WALL STREET saw defence‑linked stocks rally as the Middle East conflict escalated, with drone, missile, military aircraft and defence tech manufacturers up sharply. Broader indexes like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell moderately, while energy shares rose amid rising geopolitical risk.

Iceland battle

THE decade-long legal battle between Iceland and the UK supermarket of the same name has come to an end. Following their third legal loss in 2025, the UK chain abandoned the battle and instead promised to give Icelandic shoppers a ‘rapprochement discount’.

STAT OF WEEK

4.3 %

UK grocery price inflation rose to 4.3 per cent in February, according to Worldpanel by Numerator.

Teen exodus effect

Makro’s mission

Wife’s pension

euroweeklynews.com • 12 - 18 March 2026

Credit: Shutterstock, Vasin Lee

rise of the internet came the rise of digital marketing. Billboards were ditched for pop up ads and sponsored content. In 2025 Meta, Facebook and Instagram’s parent company, generated €171.69 billion in revenue. Of that amount, 98 per cent came from advertising alone, totalling €167.53 billion. Beyond advertising revenue, tech companies also profit off collecting user’s data. The economic value of customer data reached €2.3 billion in 2024, and could reach €11 billion by 2032. Using social media is Under-16 social media ban could reduce tech profits.

such a lucrative endeavour for companies that they purposefully design addictive algorithms to keep users scrolling. While users chat and share funny animal videos, big tech companies collect their data and weaponise it against them, feeding them advertisements in accordance with that data. While governments have implemented safeguards for children, removing under-16s would still result in a significant data traffic loss. The European Parliament notes that 97 per cent of young people use the internet daily. Additionally, 78 per cent of people aged 13 to 17 check their devices, specifically their social media apps, every hour. Banning under-16s would therefore remove a large portion of the audience these advertisements are targeted towards. Companies could lose billions from the reduced number of online users, especially in key US and EU markets.

Correos delivers profits FOR the first time in a decade, Correos closed 2025 with a €14.4 million profit. A major accomplishment considering Correos had racked up uninterrupted losses exceeding €1 billion since 2015. Excluding income from elections, revenue grew by 2.5 per cent in 2025, reaching €1.6 billion and operating expenses fell by 2 per cent compared to 2024. The state-owned company made key adjustments to professional postal services in 2025 and delayed the proposed voluntary redundancy plan, limiting personal cost savings. Profitability arrived much sooner than expected. Only the year prior, in 2024, the company reported €522 million in losses. Improved revenue and reduced expenses lead to Correos achieving profitability ahead of the schedule mapped out in the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. A diversified business

Amazon invests

AMAZON has announced an additional €18 billion investment in Spain, secured through to 2035, bringing the total investment to €33.7 billion. Investment will be channelled into expanding and supporting data centre infrastructure in Aragon, in an attempt to meet AI demand. This expansion will create approximately 1,800 direct jobs and 29,900 indirect jobs. Not only will this contribute to the socioeconomic growth of the Aragon region, but it will help reaffirm Spain’s innovative digital and economic future.

Older borrowers Credit: Shutterstock, Manuel Esteban

BUSINESS EXTRA

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Correos achieve profitability.

strategy which included selling insurance, was also beneficial. Correos also benefited from the modification of the Postal Law, extending Correos’ position as designated operator for five years.

UK beef in USA

Fleet expansion

BrewDog bought

THE first shipment of UK beef has hit shelves in the USA, a major milestone of the UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal. The first shipment arrived from Northern Ireland’s Foyle Food Group. Valued at £190,000 with an agreed £50,000 tariff relief, this is the first step in what could be a very prosperous agreement. If utilised to its fullest potential, the deal could generate £70 million a year, significantly reducing the strain on British farmers.

IN 2021, Spain’s Ministry of Defence signed a deal with Airbus worth €810 million to acquire three A330 MRTT aircrafts. Two arrived in 2025, and the third’s delivery is still pending. Despite not yet receiving the third aircraft, Spain is reportedly in talks to expand the fleet. A330 MRTT aircrafts are a vital tool in modern day defence, allowing for in-flight refuelling, especially beneficial for supporting fighter jets, for example. This means countries such as Spain do not have to rely on foreign military support or permission to refuel. In-flight fuelling allows for extended range, endurance and mission length.

POPULAR British brewer BrewDog was sold to US cannabis and drinks firm Tilray for £33 million. However, the deal will result in almost 40 bar closures, costing nearly 500 jobs across the country, sparking outrage from the trade union. Co-founders James Watt and Martin Dickie reportedly made £100 million when TSG bought 22 per cent of the company in 2017, triple the recent sale price. There was once a time when the craftbeer company was rumoured to be valued close to $1 billion, or £750 million, however a series of catastrophic business decisions and high-profile scandals damaged the brand.

NEW data reveals an increasing number of Britons are carrying mortgages into retirement. In the final months of 2025, 41,100 loans were approved for borrowers over the age of 55. Of these, 13,000 were buy-to-let and over 22,600 were residential. Getting on the property ladder is harder than ever, with many not able to do so until much later in life. As house prices soar, the promise of paying off the mortgage by retirement has become a distant memory.

Health deduction HACIENDA has confirmed that people in Spain with private health insurance will be able to deduct up to €1,500 from their 2026 income tax return. This relief applies under personal income tax (IRPF), with set limits per insured person and higher allowances for individuals with recognised disabilities. For companies, health insurance premiums remain 100 per cent deductible for corporate tax purposes, reinforcing incentives for both self-employed workers and businesses to offer cover.

FINANCE

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LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 9 March

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

3I Group.....................................2.951,39............3.040,00......... 2.939,00......... 221,79K Admiral Group.............................3.120,0..............3.178,0........... 3.074,0........... 83,18K Airtel Africa................................. 326,20...............334,12............324,53.......... 386,43K Anglo American...........................3.040,0..............3.065,0........... 3.002,0.......... 742,24K Antofagasta................................3.516,62............3.578,00......... 3.500,00.......... 91,14K Associated British Foods.............1.853,5..............1.857,0........... 1.832,0............ 61,5K AstraZeneca...............................14.120,0............14.174,0......... 14.038,0......... 246,56K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 482,30...............485,80............476,00.......... 252,24K Aviva........................................... 613,20...............622,98............612,20............1,34M B&M European Value Retail SA... 176,50...............177,50............173,50.......... 630,29K BAE Systems..............................2.194,00............2.215,46......... 2.177,00......... 708,14K Barclays...................................... 386,25...............391,75............384,11............5,52M Barratt Redrow............................ 306,00...............307,99............303,64........... 556,1K Beazley.......................................1.288,31............1.290,00......... 1.288,00...........1,05M Berkeley......................................3.836,0..............3.840,0........... 3.806,0........... 18,72K BP............................................... 504,70...............515,00............501,70...........10,55M British American Tobacco...........4.271,0..............4.282,0........... 4.230,0.......... 140,22K BT Group.................................... 202,90...............203,90............201,10.......... 799,74K Bunzl...........................................2.204,0..............2.212,0........... 2.156,0........... 43,46K Centrica....................................... 192,05...............192,85............189,35............1,16M Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.436,0..............4.468,0........... 4.400,0........... 21,32K Compass....................................2.294,75............2.294,75......... 2.269,00......... 196,65K ConvaTec Group......................... 241,40...............242,00............238,40.......... 288,63K Croda Intl....................................2.691,0..............2.691,0........... 2.626,0........... 24,19K DCC.............................................4.688,0..............4.698,0........... 4.638,0........... 13,15K Diageo.........................................1.504,0..............1.508,5........... 1.491,0.......... 462,44K Diploma.....................................5.120,00............5.165,00......... 5.060,00.......... 20,52K EasyJet........................................ 393,70...............399,90............389,30.............1,2M Entain.......................................... 580,28...............580,60............570,80.......... 207,24K Experian......................................2.756,0..............2.770,0........... 2.722,0.......... 155,66K F&C Invest.................................1.195,67............1.206,93......... 1.182,00......... 128,44K Flutter Entertainment...................8.274,0..............8.286,0........... 8.213,0............ 8,44K Frasers........................................ 668,65...............673,00............663,50...............3K Fresnillo.....................................3.432,00............3.462,00......... 3.347,10......... 146,04K Glencore...................................... 490,75...............496,65............486,35............4,53M GSK plc......................................2.015,00............2.020,00......... 1.987,50......... 505,75K HALEON...................................... 372,60...............375,90............371,70.......... 477,18K Halma..........................................3.748,0..............3.758,0........... 3.714,0........... 54,81K Hikma Pharma...........................1.199,00............1.211,00......... 1.197,00......... 197,28K Hiscox........................................1.441,00............1.448,00......... 1.428,00........... 20,6K Howden Joinery.......................... 836,00...............850,00............832,00.......... 102,57K HSBC.........................................1.230,01............1.242,20......... 1.225,00...........3,62M IAG.............................................. 347,30...............353,10............345,40............4,64M ICG PLC.....................................1.539,00............1.557,00......... 1.538,40.......... 66,95K IMI PLC......................................2.698,00............2.732,00......... 2.669,45.......... 82,86K Imperial Brands..........................3.156,00............3.163,00......... 3.127,08.......... 94,49K Informa....................................... 764,40...............773,80............755,60.......... 362,01K

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

InterContinental........................... 126,5.................127,3..............125,1............ 14,86K Intertek........................................3.926,0..............3.970,2........... 3.918,0........... 23,33K J Sainsbury................................. 337,20...............337,40............333,60.......... 393,61K JD Sports Fashion........................ 74,38.................75,54..............73,92.............1,07M Kingfisher.................................... 316,50...............317,20............310,15.......... 424,18K Land Securities........................... 587,00...............593,50............585,43.......... 216,88K Legal & General.......................... 247,50...............252,00............245,10............5,69M Lloyds Banking............................ 92,76.................93,68..............92,36.............24,5M London Stock Exchange..............8.694,0..............8.824,0........... 8.672,0........... 87,33K Londonmetric Property............... 196,70...............198,50............195,23.......... 829,74K M&G........................................... 292,91...............299,40............292,60............1,56M Marks & Spencer........................ 354,70...............359,42............351,88.......... 642,36K Melrose Industries...................... 513,60...............523,40............511,68.......... 313,17K Mondi.......................................... 828,60...............832,60............820,80........... 95,87K National Grid..............................1.323,00............1.328,50......... 1.307,50......... 739,32K NatWest Group........................... 561,40...............565,00............556,00............1,95M Next...........................................12.770,0............12.820,0......... 12.685,0.......... 20,94K Pearson....................................... 980,00...............981,40............974,00.......... 110,36K Pershing Square........................3.956,82............3.984,00......... 3.878,00.......... 25,16K Persimmon.................................1.239,5..............1.258,0........... 1.238,0.......... 207,19K Prudential...................................1.027,50............1.053,57......... 1.025,00......... 555,32K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.486,0..............5.540,0........... 5.442,0........... 57,68K Relx............................................2.636,00............2.676,00......... 2.601,00......... 581,63K Rentokil....................................... 460,80...............465,30............458,00........... 374,9K Rightmove.................................. 454,90...............460,20............448,70.......... 228,23K Rio Tinto PLC..............................6.517,7..............6.551,0........... 6.401,0........... 314,9K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.189,22............1.210,00......... 1.169,00...........5,34M Sage............................................ 835,40...............845,20............831,80........... 169,7K Schroders.................................... 585,5.................586,0..............585,0.............1,01M Scottish Mortgage......................1.132,50............1.141,53......... 1.121,38......... 641,37K Segro.......................................... 721,80...............724,80............694,60.......... 525,97K Severn Trent...............................3.068,0..............3.105,0........... 3.042,0........... 46,22K Shell............................................3.191,5..............3.225,6........... 3.172,5............1,61M Smith & Nephew........................1.267,50............1.277,00......... 1.255,00.......... 108,5K Smiths Group.............................2.520,49............2.552,00......... 2.510,00.......... 71,18K Smurfit Westrock........................3.130,8..............3.174,7........... 3.106,0............ 11,8K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.825,0..............6.955,5........... 6.795,0........... 11,63K SSE............................................2.588,00............2.596,00......... 2.546,64......... 168,79K Standard Chartered....................1.595,50............1.647,00......... 1.586,00......... 831,25K Standard Life............................... 687,50...............700,00............676,45.......... 524,73K Taylor Wimpey............................. 96,84.................97,48..............96,10.............4,55M Tesco.......................................... 467,53...............470,00............463,80.......... 715,17K Unilever.......................................4.874,5..............4.926,0........... 4.843,0.......... 383,31K Unite........................................... 485,60...............491,20............484,00.............350K United Utilities............................1.313,50............1.328,24......... 1.301,50.......... 85,36K Vistry Group................................ 436,98...............444,90............434,40.......... 500,71K Vodafone Group PLC................. 105,400.............106,000..........104,350...........4,78M Weir Group................................2.916,00............2.950,00......... 2.902,00.......... 57,22K Whitbread...................................2.447,0..............2.490,0........... 2.442,0........... 39,03K WPP............................................ 257,33...............258,80............254,80.......... 374,54K

0.86609 1.15335

1.15460

0.90012 7.47105 11.11926 10.6874 Contact our team of currency experts

+34 952 906 581 currenciesdirect.es

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 9 March

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

3M.............................................. 153,41...............154,12............151,76............4,94M Amazon.com............................... 213,21...............217,32............212,53...........51,15M American Express....................... 301,00...............303,00............294,51.............5,5M Amgen........................................ 369,53...............369,76............361,71............2,44M Apple........................................... 257,46...............258,77............254,37...........41,12M Boeing......................................... 231,11...............231,96............218,64...........10,68M Caterpillar.................................... 680,90...............696,33............675,07............3,56M Chevron...................................... 189,94...............192,41............188,12...........13,07M Cisco............................................ 78,64.................79,52..............78,35............20,62M Citigroup..................................... 106,53...............106,59............103,09...........16,59M Coca-Cola..................................... 77,04.................77,19..............76,35............15,52M Goldman Sachs........................... 821,42...............827,16............801,33............2,47M Home Depot................................ 357,92...............359,45............353,22............4,17M Honeywell................................... 235,29...............236,96............234,12............3,86M IBM............................................. 258,85...............259,40............252,21............6,23M J&J............................................. 240,40...............240,79............235,43............7,18M JPMorgan................................... 289,48...............289,99............283,71............13,5M McDonald’s................................. 328,06...............328,33............321,32............3,34M Merck&Co................................... 115,79...............116,36............113,82...........12,81M Microsoft.................................... 408,96...............413,05............408,51...........31,12M Nike.............................................. 57,01.................57,55..............56,76............16,32M NVIDIA........................................ 177,82...............182,76............176,82..........189,02M P&G............................................ 153,63...............154,43............151,89............8,19M Salesforce Inc............................. 202,11...............202,96............197,37............9,66M Sherwin-Williams........................ 329,88...............331,68............325,09............1,83M The Travelers.............................. 306,31...............307,26............300,82............1,27M UnitedHealth............................... 286,48...............291,33............283,05............6,82M Verizon......................................... 51,12.................51,25..............50,41............23,56M Visa A.......................................... 317,36...............317,69............312,30............6,44M Walmart...................................... 123,80...............124,19............121,62...........21,55M Walt Disney................................. 101,54...............101,81.............99,95............10,45M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 9 March

Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Peraso............................................................. 151,54 %.......................366,37M Decent Holding................................................ 85,25 %........................595,21M Edesa Biotech.................................................. 80,61 %.........................32,19M Cre8 Enterprise................................................ 72,90 %.........................24,23M AN2 Therapeutics............................................. 66,67 %..........................6,98M Day One Biopharmaceuticals........................... 65,88 %.........................78,37M Epsium Enterprise............................................ 64,15 %..........................1,94M Aptera Motors.................................................. 38,98 %..........................1,77M Uniqure NV...................................................... 33,99 %.........................17,63M Firefly Neuroscience......................................... 30,28 %.........................38,85M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined eLong Power Holding.......................................-49,88 %........................102,83M Medicus Pharma..............................................-42,78 %.........................16,51M CCH Holdings...................................................-39,81 %..........................5,17M Sky Quarry.......................................................-37,90 %..........................3,19M Lunai Bioworks................................................-35,68 %..........................1,03M Powell Max......................................................-33,87 %........................459,47K Profound Medical.............................................-29,11 %..........................1,98M Brenmiller Energy............................................-28,51 %........................731,38K YY Holding.......................................................-25,76 %.........................23,19M Nuvve Holding..................................................-25,60 %..........................1,07M VCI Global........................................................-24,66 %........................704,12K M - Million Dollars

FINANCE

euroweeklynews.com

Adidas outlook

ADIDAS expects its 2026 operating profit to rise to about €2.3 billion, below market forecasts, with a margin under 9 per cent. Adidas reported €2.06 billion profit in 2025 and sees continued sales expansion. However, US tariffs, the conflict in the Middle East, and a weak dollar are estimated to reduce earnings by €400 million.

Deal delayed

FOLLOWING President Trump’s threat to cut trade with Spain, the Dcoop group, the world’s largest olive oil producer, has paused negotiations to acquire remaining 50 per cent shares in US subsidiary Pompeian. Despite an annual €1.5 billion turnover, the President’s threats make the deal ‘less attractive’ according to Dcoop spokesperson.

Gen Alpha’s influence GEN ALPHA, those born between 2013 and 2025, is the largest generation globally, representing 24 per cent of the population. While most of Gen Alpha is still in primary school, they already have a strong hold on retail markets. In fact, by 2028 their collective spending power will exceed the trillion-euro mark, according to Colliers. As the first generation born into a completely digital age, their spending habits differ drastically from past generations, playing with expensive devices over cheap toys.

Gen Alpha wield major retail power.

While children are using these electronic devices, tech companies collect their data, creating a consumer profile to better target adver-

Gambling growth

ACCORDING to Nationwide Building Society, the top 10 per cent of UK gamblers spend, on average, £745 a month. This corresponds with a 9 per cent year on year increase, which is expected to continue to grow. Data from a nationwide survey revealed that 68 per cent of gamblers expect to bet more in 2026, due to

tisements. Gen Alpha’s consumer profile will follow them from childhood to adulthood. Brands now consider Gen Alpha their current custo-

the sheer amount of major sporting events taking place. The FIFA World Cup will drive activity by 59 per cent, the Champions League by 34 per cent, and the Royal Ascot by 20 per cent. Notably, the National Gambling Helpline saw a 48 per cent surge in referrals in January compared to 2025.

25

Greggs slump Credit: Shutterstock, Studio Romantic

BUSINESS EXTRA

12 - 18 March 2026

mer base, and specifically market their products to this demographic. They create a loyalty that will pay off when the young shoppers become adults with their own money to spend. Data also reveals Gen Alpha prefers to have agency in what they buy, or what is being bought for them. Three-quarters of Gen Alpha prefer to shop in store, touching and trying products rather than simply online shopping meaning they will play a crucial role in killing or resuscitating physical retail commerce.

HIGH-STREET favourite Greggs is reporting a profits slump. Inflation, consumers’ lack of disposable income and dedication to weight-loss treatments saw Greggs’ pre-tax profits fall by 17.9 per cent to £167.4 million in 2025. Despite challenges, Greggs plans to open an additional 120 locations and adjust its strategy to support deliveries and later closing times.

Eclipse travel AIRBNB data reveals the demand for travel to rural-Spain has risen considerably, coinciding with the total solar eclipse that will cross Spain on August 12. Inland towns including Aragon, Navarre and Castilla Leon have registered 10 times more reservations than the year before. Meanwhile, bookings in autonomous communities Galicia, Asturias and the Basque Country quadrupled.

FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS

Funny ol’ life innit! LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT INTERESTING that any ripe old age has you reminiscing over memorable circumstances. Situations that have arisen during your time on the planet. The recent report that the Iranians had attempted to attack the American consulate in Saudi Arabia was a case in point. Well I remember supplying the consulate and military hospital with fruit and veg during my eight years spent in that somewhat alien environment. At the end of the month, I had to visit the hospital and collect the money owed to me for my endeavours. One of my loose-fitting outfits during those far off days was predominantly white. Walking down one of the maze of corridors that led to the admin area I was suddenly aware of a very large figure striding toward me. Closer and close he came and was soon transformed into one of the largest African

males I had ever seen in my life. He was positively enormous. Stepping aside to let him pass, he suddenly stopped. As I looked up into his huge, somewhat oddly familiar face, I was suddenly astounded to recognise him as none other than Idi Amin. Idi Amin, the dictator that had fled Uganda with a fearsome reputation after the Uganda conflict and had sought refuge in Saudi Arabia. I really couldn’t quite believe it. How many people I wondered had gazed up at the same sight which was the last thing they envisaged during their lifetime! His huge hand reached out toward me; I was utterly transfixed. And then to my amazement he actually patted me on the head. With a big smile and a rumbling African accent, he uttered a phrase I will never forget ‘keep up de good work’. He said. ‘You doing good job’. He thought I was a nurse. Apparently, his daughter had been in a car accident and he had been visiting her in the military hospital. With this, he eased passed me and

moved on. I think I actually heaved a sigh of relief. Idi Amin. Thank the Lord it was a brightly lit corridor. Had it been dark I’m not sure if the ol’ boys’ ticker could have taken the strain. Funny ol’ life innit? Couldn’t help but mention another, almost unbelievable happening, that actually occurred this week. I’m sure you’ve all seen the incredible photo of staring ex prince Andrew, cowering in the back of the police car as he returned from questioning? (I’ll guarantee whoever took it was a millionaire by the following day). Well the photo has been hung in the Louvre! I kid you not. Not quite sure how close to the Mona Lisa he’s found himself, but he’s there. You really couldn’t make it up. Don’t you sometimes just love the French. I’ll bet Gainsborough and Leonardo da Vinci are turning in their graves. I also wager the arrogant pompous idiot never thought he’d finish up there. Not in the back of a police car anyhow. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

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Spain crowned top Credit: Sophie Woodward

26 12 - 18 March 2026

Young tourists in Malaga.

SPAIN has established its position as Europe’s number one travel destination, recording a historic 513.6 million overnight stays in 2025. According to Eurostat data just released, the country has comfortably outpaced traditional rivals Italy (476.9 million) and France (471.7 million) to claim the top spot. The figures represent a significant milestone in a broader continental recovery. Total overnight stays across the European Union reached approximately 3.1 billion last year, a 2.2 per cent increase from 2024. Experts attribute Spain’s dominance to its diverse appeal and robust infrastructure. While the Balearic and Canary Islands remain magnets for sun-seekers, cultural hubs like Madrid and Sevilla have seen a surge in year-round city breaks. Furthermore, rural tourism in Andalucia and northern Spain is growing as visitors seek authentic nature escapes and historic landmarks. Reliable high-speed rail links and competitive pricing have bolstered this growth, drawing heavy footfall from the UK, Germany, and the United States. Analysts also suggest that geopolitical instability in other regions has redirected travellers toward the perceived safety of the Iberian Peninsula. With demand hitting record highs, industry experts advise holidaymakers to book well in advance, as popular resorts are reaching capacity earlier than in previous seasons.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Feel rewarded. Stay protected: Generali’s €30 cashback campaign now running

LIVING in another country already involves enough decisions. Insurance should not be one of the stressful ones. Generali Expatriates specialises in protecting foreign homeowners, drivers and families across Spain, offering cover in their own language that fits the way they live. Now Generali adds a direct incentive to act. Until March 31, 2026, customers taking out a new car or home insurance policy can receive a €30 cashback reward per policy. It is a limited-time campaign designed to reward customers for choosing Generali. Insure your home. Insure your vehicle. Each eligible policy earns its

own cashback. The idea is simple. Reliable insurance is essential. The cashback adds a small but welcome bonus for a decision many people were already planning. Across Spain, more than 200 specialist brokers and agents

support international clients. They speak their customers’ languages and understand the practical realities of living in Spain. Insurance simply becomes easier when you are dealing with someone who understands cross-border life and can

explain everything clearly. Cover designed for real situations Home insurance is built around flexibility, with tailored packs that adapt to different properties and lifestyles. Standard cover includes emergency assistance in English, extended protection for jewellery and valuables, garden furniture and outdoor areas, aesthetic restoration after damage and public liability, with optional legal defence cover in case of illegal occupation for owners who spend long periods away from their property. Car insurance focuses on everyday reassurance. English-speaking roadside assistan-

ce, a courtesy car as standard, enhanced theft protection and accident cover help reduce the stress of everyday driving. Reward and reassurance The message behind the campaign is simple. Feel rewarded. Stay protected. For many international clients in Spain, insurance is part of building a life, protecting a home, a vehicle and the people and plans that matter most. Generali offers protection that adapts to each stage of life and supports whatever comes next. For those considering a move to Generali or taking out new cover, the campaign offers an extra reason to act now.

Interested customers can request a personalised quote at generaliexpatriates.es/quote or call 913 422 549. One of our native-speaking advisers will be in touch to guide you through the process and answer any questions. Campaign conditions and minimum premiums apply. For full details, visit generaliexpatriates.es/en/cashback-campaign

Chicago in Fuengirola THE legendary Broadway and West End sensation Chicago is set to make its highly anticipated debut at the Salón Varietés Theatre in Fuengirola. This landmark production marks a significant achievement for the venue, which successfully secured the performance rights to coincide with its 40th-anniversary celebrations. Set in the 1920s, the musical offers a razor-sharp satire of fame, crime, and scandal. Audiences can expect a high-energy spectacle featuring John Kander’s pulsing jazz sco-

re, Fred Ebb’s sassy lyrics, and iconic Fosse-style choreography. The production is led by directors Owain Griffiths and Sarah Coombes, with musical direction by James Burn. Choreographer Alexandra Avery has reimagined the show’s famous dance sequences, maintaining the vaudeville aesthetic that has captivated global audiences for decades. Performances run from Wednesday, March 18 to Sunday, March 29. Evening shows commence at 7.30pm, with Sunday

performances starting at 7.00pm. Please note there are no shows on Monday, March 23 or Tuesday, March 24. As part of the theatre’s four-decade milestone, this debut highlights Salón Varietés’ ongoing commitment to providing high-quality English-language entertainment on the Costa del Sol. Tickets are selling rapidly. Bookings can be made online at salonvarietes theatre.com or by calling the box office on 952 474 542 between 11.00am and 2.30pm, Monday to Friday.

International culture fest BENALMADENA will transform into a global village this month as it hosts the inaugural Festival Internacional de las Culturas. Taking place at the Recinto Ferial de La Paloma, the free-entry event celebrates the town’s remarkable diversity, with mofre than 140 nationalities currently residing in the municipality. The festivities begin on Thursday, March 12, and run until Sunday, March 15. The fairground will become a vibrant multicultural hub, featuring authentic cuisine from nations including Germany, Cuba, Argentina, Mexico, Senegal, and the United States. Visitors can expect a ‘feast for the senses’ with stalls dedicated to the culinary heritage of each participating country. Other than the food, the programme is packed with live entertainment. Traditional folk music and dance performances will showcase unique global rhythms, while a dedicated market area will offer artisa-

Credit: Salvador Aznar -Shutterstock

Festival of cultural colours.

nal crafts and international products. The event is designed for all ages, providing a family-friendly atmosphere that encourages cultural exchange through shared traditions. The festival opens at 8pm on Thursday, March 12. From Friday, March 13, to Sunday, March 15, doors open at 1pm. For residents and tourists on the Costa del Sol, the event offers a rare opportunity to journey across continents and experience a world of traditions in a single weekend - no passport required.

DANISH artist Tine Lilholt has enchanted Mijas Pueblo with her latest exhibition, ‘The Zodiac’, now showing at the Centro de Artes Mijas. Located in the Algarrobo building on Plaza Virgen de la Peña, the collection offers a rare multi-sensory experience, pairing vibrant mixed-media paintings with bespoke musical soundtracks. The exhibition launched with a live performance. Lilholt, an accomplished musician, played the flute and harp alongside her husband, percussionist Klaus Thrane. This musical dialogue brought the 12 astrological signs to life, creating what centre president Pernille Knudtzon described as a ‘warm and intimate’ atmosphere. Lilholt’s work merges painting and collage to interpret the heavens. Each piece is integrated with sound elements, allowing visitors to engage with astrology through both sight and audio.

EXCITEMENT is building across Coin and the Guadalhorce Valley as the warmer spring weather marks the arrival of the 2026 festival season. The popular Birra & Arte festival returns to Plaza de la Alameda from Friday March 13 to Sunday March 15, transforming the square into a vibrant centre of craft beer, street food, and live music. Organisers have curated a premium selection of international brews for the occasion. Attendees can sample renowned classics such as Duvel, Chouffe, Erdinger, Maredsous, La Sagra, and Budvar. A variety of street food stalls will also be on hand. Families are well-catered for, with a dedicated children’s area featuring Dance & Dreams shows. The weekend features a packed programme of tribute bands. Music lovers can enjoy anthems from Queen, alongside energetic performances honouring

Credit: TL FB

Credit: CV

The cast of Chicago.

Mijas zodiac magic

Tine Lilholt & husband Klaus Thrane.

While the couple are frequent visitors to Spain, this show marks a significant milestone in Lilholt’s Spanish career, drawing impressive crowds through the opening weekend. For those inspired by her technique, Lilholt will host a Gelli Print workshop on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15. The sessions cost €35 for a single day or €65 for the full weekend. The exhibition remains open to the public until Saturday, March 21.

Beer fest & live music Mami Curl, Los Rodríguez, Fito, and El Último de la Fila. The festivities begin on Friday March 13 at 7.30pm. On Saturday March 14, the

action starts at 3.30pm, while Sunday March 15 sees an earlier start at 12.30pm with a special kids’ show. Entry is free.

Sponsored by

Credit: Jennifer Whitehead FB

Spring Charity Market

AECC charity artisan market.

CANCELADA is planning to host a Spring Charity Market on Saturday, March 14, uniting the local community in support of the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC). Held in Plaza José Vázquez Espinosa from 10am to 8pm, the event will be a mix of artisan shopping, live entertainment, and family workshops. More than 30 stalls will showcase handmade treasures, including bespoke jewellery, stylish bags, and children’s clothing. Creative sessions begin at 11am with a children’s floral workshop led by engineer Irene Santos, followed by an adult bouquet-composing class hosted by Gema González. The day’s entertainment features a diverse line-up starting with the Coro Son y Sal at 12pm. This is

followed by a cardio ballet exhibition at 1pm, a dance showcase by ‘La Milana’ school at 1.30pm, and a live concert by the group Kalima at 5pm. AECC volunteers will operate a charity bar throughout the day, with all proceeds directed towards cancer research, prevention, and patient services. Councillor Begoña Ortiz said that the market strengthens neighbourhood bonds while advancing vital medical efforts. For those seeking ongoing support, the AECC headquarters on Calle Terraza provides free psychological care, physiotherapy, and social assistance. This gathering offers a meaningful way for residents to contribute to these essential services while enjoying a festive atmosphere.

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Hands-on horse care ANIMAL lovers in Alhaurin el Grande can gain practical experience with equines this spring through two specialised grooming sessions. Hosted by Centro Andalusí de Rescate de Caballos (ARCH) at its Viña Borrego sanctuary, the workshops are open to current volunteers and those considering joining the charity’s mission. The sessions focus on essential care skills, teaching participants how to groom safely and effectively. Attendees will learn about horse welfare, personal safety, and the specific uses of various brushes. These hands-on workshops are designed to build confidence, helping volunteers understand the daily routines required to rehabilitate the neglected and

Credit: ARCH

28 EWN 12 - 18 March 2026

Learn how to care for rescued horses at ARCH.

abandoned horses, ponies, and donkeys ARCH rescues across Andalucia. Following the success of last month’s oversubscribed course, organisers encourage early registration to manage numbers. There are no advance fees; simply pay on arrival. For those wishing to enter paddocks or handle the animals, wearing closed shoes is a mandatory safety requirement.

ARCH works together with authorities like Seprona to provide a lifeline for abused equines. Beyond these workshops, the charity holds regular visitors’ days on the first Sunday of every month. To secure a place for the upcoming sessions, contact the team via WhatsApp on 711 070 099 or email office@horse rescuespain.org. The event is planned for Saturday, March 21.

30 EWN 12 - 18 March 2026

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RESIDENTS in Marbella’s Plaza de Toros district are preparing for a lively community celebration to mark International Women’s Day, even if a little later. Organised by the Asociación de Vecinos Plaza de Toros, the event highlights the pivotal role of women, who account for nearly 80 per cent of the association’s membership. The gathering hopes to encourage inclusion and boost female participation in neighbourhood life. It begins at 7pm on Saturday, March 14, at the group’s social venue. Attendees are required to register with the association in advance. The diverse programme features a talk on equality and diversity, followed by a series of dynamic cultural performances. Local talent will be on full display with gymnastics, flamenco, and sevillanas dances, complemented

Credit: IU

Women’s Day continues St Patrick’s fun

Credit: Terry McKinley FB

In Benalmadena for St Patrick’s Day. International Women’s Day celebrations in Marbella.

by a special musical set from popular singer Luna Moreno. Guests can also enjoy a catering spread and a competitive home-baking contest. Adding to the festive atmosphere, volunteers have prepared handmade gifts from their crafts workshop and a charity raffle. Following the success of last year’s celebrations, organisers report that interest has alre-

ady doubled. Volunteers have worked tirelessly to decorate the venue, ensuring a welcoming environment for the festivities. This occasion serves as a vital opportunity for neighbours to strengthen communal bonds through culture and empowerment. For those connected to the Plaza de Toros area, the evening promises a memorable display of local solidarity and joy.

EXCITEMENT is building across the Costa del Sol as Benalmadena prepares for its annual St Patrick’s Day celebration. Organised by the Irish Association of Spain, the event on Tuesday, March 17, is expected to be the region’s largest party, traditionally marking the transition from winter to the first spring sunshine. The all-day festivities begin at 11.30am with a lively parade starting at the church in Arroyo de la Miel. Participants, clad in green attire and shamrocks, will march through the streets towards Plaza de la Mezquita. Local businesses have pledged their support, ensuring a high-energy atmosphere throughout the town. Once the procession reaches the plaza, the square will transform into a vibrant fes-

tival hub. Popular local vocalist Chloe Carron will host the day’s entertainment, introducing a star-studded line-up including BANDido, The Celtic Chicks, and the Celtic Dancers. A special performance is also expected from pupils of Bunscoil Loreto, visiting from County Wexford, Ireland. Attendees can enjoy a variety of stalls offering Irish and Spanish cuisine, alongside plenty of Guinness and local refreshments. With live music and dancing scheduled throughout the afternoon, the event promises authentic ‘craic’ for all ages. Organisers encourage everyone to join the ‘green wave’ and celebrate Irish culture in the heart of the Costa del Sol. For further details, visit www.irishasso ciationspain.com.

32 EWN 12 - 18 March 2026

Sponsored by

Rise of Buga Ramen Credit: Buga Ramen FB

Fun face of Asian dining.

BUGA RAMEN in Fuengirola has quickly established itself as a one of the most talked-about fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and playful pop culture. The restaurant transports diners to Tokyo via the Costa del Sol, combining traditional flavours with a whimsical anime-inspired aesthetic. The interior is a fun visual feast, featuring neon signs, manga wall art, and character statues. The whole experience brings an immersive atmosphere making it a favourite for

families; children are often greeted with stickers, making it more of a quirky adventure of a meal out. The décor is matched by a delicious menu centred on customisable ramen bowls. Original dishes include the Ramen Teriyaki Chicken Shoyu (£13.80) and the Ramen Spicy Chicken-Katsu (£14.80). Plant-based diners are also catered for with the Yasai Miso Vegano, a rich broth packed with asparagus and mushrooms. Other than just noodles,

the menu offers popular street food such as crispy Gyoza, Takoyaki (octopus croquettes), and fluffy Bao buns. For dessert, traditional Mochi and Dorayaki provide a sweet conclusion. With starters under €7 and most mains priced between €13 and €15, the restaurant offers great value for money in a really fun location. Buga Ramen is open every day from 12.30pm to 4.30pm and 7pm to 11.30pm in Calle Tostón, 2, Fuengirola.

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Premiere triple bill Credit: KYI FB MARBELLA’S Premiere Club returns to the spotlight this March, offering a weekend of high-energy, free live music at its Plaza de los Olivos venue. The line-up promises a mix of hard rock, poprock, and soulful blues, guaranteeing the Costa del Sol remains a vibrant hub for nightlife. The entertainment begins on Friday, March 13, at 11.30pm with Kill Your Idols. This Guns N’ Kill your Idols, Guns N Roses tribute. Roses tribute act captures the raw swagger of the Appetite for Des- weekend. Led by the charismatic Maitruction era. Fans can expect authentic ka Lavera, the group fuses soul, blues, performances of anthems like ‘Sweet and classic rock, covering legends such Child o’ Mine’ and ‘Paradise City’, com- as Etta James and Fleetwood Mac with plete with blistering guitar riffs and the powerful, gritty vocals. iconic leather-and-top-hat aesthetic. Entry to all performances remains free On Saturday, March 14, the party of charge. With Premiere Club’s reputastarts early. Local favourites 5D Copas tion for high-quality live music in an intitake the stage at 7pm, delivering an up- mate setting, guests are encouraged to beat mix of Spanish and international arrive early to secure a prime spot and pop-rock hits from the 1980s to the pre- soak up the Mediterranean energy. sent. The atmosphere shifts at 11.30pm It’s all taking place in Plaza de los Oliwhen the Maika Lavera Band closes the vos, Marbella.

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Johnny Logan live in Marbella A night of timeless hits with Mr Eurovision on April 4 ON April 4, the legendary Irish singer and songwriter Johnny Logan will take the stage in Marbella for an unforgettable evening of music, nostalgia, and world-class entertainment. With attendance limited to just 300 guests, the event offers an intimate musical experience in which virtually every seat feels like front row. Known worldwide as ‘Mr Eurovision’, Logan will perform an exclusive concert accompanied by special guest artists, promising audiences a unique celebration of timeless melodies and unforgettable performances. Johnny Logan is Mr Eurovision Johnny Logan holds a remarkable place in music history as the only artist to have won the Eurovision Song Contest twice as a performer. His victories with the iconic songs What’s Another Year (1980) and Hold Me Now (1987) established him as one of Europe’s most beloved voices. Hold Me Now (voted as the third most popular song in Eurovision history) became a major European hit and reached number two in the UK charts. In addition to his own triumphs, Logan also wrote the winning song Why Me?, performed by Linda Martin, which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1992. His extraordinary connection with the competition and its fans has cemented his reputation as one of the most influential figures in its history. During this special concert in Marbella, audiences can expect an evening filled with Logan’s greatest hits, emotional ballads, and stories from a career spanning more than four decades. His warm stage presence and powerful voice continue to captivate audiences across Europe, making every performance an intimate and memorable experience.

An unforgettable evening celebrating one of Europe’s most legendary voices.

Special Guests: Gema Cabanas and Indiria Bergmans The concert will also feature two special guest performers: Spanish singer Gema Cabanas and Dutch shooting star Indira Bergmans provide additional musical highlights and surprises to the evening. All artists will create a dynamic show blending classic pop, heartfelt ballads, and contemporary sounds, all set against the elegant and vibrant atmosphere of Marbella. The concert will be held at an elegant

indoor venue at Club Med Magna Marbella, combining outstanding live music with refined gastronomy. In addition to the live performance, guests will enjoy a welcome reception with Cava and premium appetizers, selected Mediterranean tapas or, optionally, a full three-course gourmet dinner, as well as a selection of fine beverages. A personal meet & greet with Johnny Loagn is also available. Ticket options with Tapas or Dinner-Menu. Drinks are included The event is aimed at music and culture enthusiasts who value a stylish yet personal concert experience. Tickets are available in several packages, including a VIP all-inclusive pass with concert, tapas, and drinks

for €149, as well as a premium option featuring a three-course dinner menu for €199. This exclusive concert is expected to attract music lovers from across Spain and beyond, eager to experience the magic of Johnny Logan live on stage. With his timeless songs and heartfelt performances, Logan continues to connect generations of fans and prove why his music has endured for decades. Prepare for an unforgettable evening celebrating one of Europe’s most legendary voices. On Saturday April 4, Marbella will become the stage for a night of music history, emotion, and timeless songs performed by the one and only Johnny Logan. The event is organised by Marbella Club Privé, an exclusive concert and event club known for curated artist performances in an elegant atmosphere, offering its members special events and advance information.

Further details about the event and ticket options can be found at

marbellaclubprive.es

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34 EWN 12 - 18 March 2026

Coin cheese fair SPRING brings a fresh opportunity to savour the authentic flavours of the Malaga countryside. On Sunday, March 15, the Mercado Agroalimentario de Coin will transform into a vibrant centre for cheese connoisseurs, showcasing the region’s best, and internationally respected, sustainable produce. The event celebrates more than 50 varieties of artisanal cheeses. Crafted primarily from goat and sheep’s milk, these products use traditional methods dating back to

Roman and Moorish eras. Renowned producers - including El Pinsapo, Santa María del Cerro, and El Pastor del Valle - will present a range of fresh, semi-cured, and long-aged options. Many of these award-winning dairies supply Michelin-starred restaurants, highlighting the exceptional quality of Malaga’s cheese-making heritage. Organised by the Asociación Quesos de Malaga and Coin Council, the market supports local small enterprises and high-quality

agriculture from the Guadalhorce Valley. Beyond the dairy stalls, visitors can browse seasonal fruits, artisan breads, local honeys, and premium olive oils. The market runs from 9am to 2.30pm at Polígono Industrial La Trocha, Coin (situated next to Carrefour). Admission is free, with ample parking and straightforward road access provided. This family-friendly, open-air event offers an ideal Sunday escape for those seeking wholesome, local ingredients and a delicious start to the season. Credit: Quesos de Malaga FB

Guadalhorce Valley’s artisan cheese fair.

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIALSCENE

A new era for Jazz drums. The ensemble BROOKLYN-born trumfuses traditional jazz peter Adam O’Farrill with 20th-century is bringing his acminimalism and claimed sound to electronic texthe Costa del Sol tures, creain March. Desting a sound cended from that is both Afro-Cuban intimate and jazz royalty, urgent. the grandson Following of Chico O’Fathe release of rrill and son of new singles, Arturo O’Farrill, the quartet is Adam has carved now touring Eua distinct path, comCredit: Adam O’Farril FB rope ahead of their bining his rich rhythmic upcoming album. Local heritage with New York’s Adam O’Farril in concert. enthusiasts have a rare avant-garde influences. opportunity to catch this Named a ‘rising star’ by performance at the ClaDownBeat magazine and rence Jazz Club in Torremolinos on Fricelebrated by The New York Times day, March 13. Located at Calle Danza as a major new improviser, O’Farrill’s Invisible 8, the venue offers an intimacareer includes a podium finish at the te setting for O’Farrill’s forward-thin2014 Thelonious Monk International king compositions. Trumpet Competition. Tickets are priced between €20 and His latest project, the quartet €30. Jazz fans are encouraged to book Elephant, features Yvonne Rogers on early to witness one of the genre’s prepared piano, Walter Stinson on most innovative voices. double bass, and Russell Holzman on

Power duo Dirty Vintage Credit: LL FB

Dirty Vintage at Louie Louie.

ROCK heads on the western Costa del Sol are bracing for an ear-splitting night as Malaga’s powerhouse duo, Dirty Vintage, takes the stage at Louie Louie Live in Estepona on Saturday, March 14. Known for raw energy and classic riffs, the group promises a performance that echoes the golden era of hard rock. Led by guitarist and vocalist Bryan Slide, the band includes drummer Nicolas Franchini and a rhythm section that delivers thunderous, tight chemistry. Drawing inspiration from legends such as Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, the trio injects fresh vigour into every track. Their journey from local jam sessions to festivals like GRX METAL FEST has solidified their reputation for authentic,

trend-defying sound. The Estepona gig follows a string of successful shows at Malaga’s Sala La Cochera Cabaret, where the band’s interactive style left crowds demanding encores. Fans can expect a high-octane setlist featuring original material from their 2025 EP alongside crowd-pleasing covers. Louie Louie, situated in Estepona’s Puerto Deportivo, provides the perfect intimate setting for the band’s explosive style. Doors open at 10pm, with the show starting at 11.30pm. Advance tickets are available for €10 via woutick. es, or €15 at the door. Given the venue’s popularity, early booking is advised for what promises to be a highlight of the local rock calendar.

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Making your Spanish home work for you A simpler way to unlock financial freedom in retirement

FOR many people enjoying retirement in Spain, their home is their biggest asset - yet much of its value can feel out of reach. While property values may have increased over time, retirement income doesn’t always stretch as far as planned. Rising living costs, healthcare needs, or simply wanting to enjoy life a little more can all make finances feel tighter. Fluent Finance Abroad’s Spanish Lifetime Mortgage, also known as a Hipoteca Inversa, offers a practical way to release value from your Spanish property - without selling it or moving out. If you are aged 65 or over, a Spanish Lifetime Mortgage allows you to unlock equity from your home while remaining its owner, with the right to live there for life. There are no mandatory monthly repayments. Instead, the loan is usually repaid in the future when the property is sold, giving you greater financial flexibility today. What makes this solution particularly appealing is choice. Depending on your needs, you can receive the money as a lump sum, a regular monthly income, or a combination of both. This means you can use the funds in a way that suits your lifestyle - topping up your income, covering medical

costs, helping family, travelling, or simply enjoying greater peace of mind. The capital released can be used for any purpose you wish, and you stay fully in control. Fluent Finance Abroad specialises in guiding homeowners through this option clearly and carefully, explaining everything in plain language so there are no surprises. Every case is looked at individually, with time taken to ensure you fully understand how the mortgage works and what it means for the future. For reassurance, Spanish Lifetime Mortgages are regulated under Spanish Law 41/2007 and supervised by the Bank of Spain. Fluent Finance Abroad is registered with the Bank of Spain under LCCI licence number D305, and independent legal advice forms part of the process. At present, Fluent Finance Abroad is accepting applications from homeowners on the Costa del Sol, including Malaga, Benahavis, Benalmadena, Estepona, Fuengirola, Marbella, Mijas, Rincon de la Victoria, Torremolinos, and Manilva, with plans to expand into other areas soon. Your home has supported you for many years now it could help support your retirement.

fluentfinanceabroad.com • info@fluentfinanceabroad.com • Tel: 952 853 647

Magical Majorca: Mountains, TOP Trending mazurkas & monasteries!

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main character, leaving audiences constantly guessing and constantly questioning everything they see on screen.

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BASED on the book of the same name, Netflix’s Vladimir follows a university professor who falls into lust with her much younger colleague. Rachel Weisz delivers a magnetic performance as the show’s lead, bringing dimension to a character who is only known to audiences as ‘M’. Provocative and pensive, nothing in the eight-episode mini-series is black and white. The series is as unreliable as its unnamed

etflix / Fac it: N eb ed o Cr

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

Vladimir

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TUCKED into the western Mediterranean like a jewel in a very sunny crown, Majorca (or, more correctly, ‘Mallorca’) is the biggest and most theatrically inclined of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Picture this: two mountain ranges bookending the island like overachieving armrests, cradling a lush central plain sandwiched inbetween. In the west, Puig Major sulks skywards at 1,445 metres, while the north coast flirts with vertigo via 300-metre cliffs. The southeast trades vertiginous drama for gentle hills, subterranean lakes and enough limestone caves to make a mole feel inadequate. Prefer stalactites to summits? This is your happy place! Central Majorca, sheltered by mountains, is the pantry of the island: oranges and almonds stretching above fields of cereals and legumes, like a botanical bunk bed.

YOUNG SHERLOCK continues the current TV trend of visiting classic TV characters during their younger years. This time we follow an adolescent Sherlock Holmes who hasn’t yet made a name for himself as a great detective. The show’s mystery isn’t as clever or complex as one might expect for a Sherlock Holmes’ adaptation. But then again, young Sherlock himself is not as brilliant or quick witted as audiences know the character to be. While the show feels out of place in the Sherlock Holmes’ canon, it is undeniably full of fun and hijinks.

Cred i

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

Young Sherlock Season 1 Video / Faceb o

BREAKING VIEWS

Culture, of course, refuses to be outdone. From lively Holy Week celebrations in Pollensa to Chopin’s melancholy mazurkas composed during a rainy winter at the former Carthusian monastery of Valldemosa, there’s no shortage of flair. Feminist writer George Sand grumbled about the weather, but the scenery’s a fair trade-off. Prehistoric sites abound: talayots (chambered stone towers), taulas (temples) and the carved burial caves of San Vicente, whose type and carvings nod to links with prehistoric France. Modern Majorca thrives on tourism and agriculture plus marble quarrying, pearl-making and pottery thrown in. Palma hums with flights and ferries, while Inca and Manacor bustle with industry - and souvenir shops, naturally. Enjoy!

e rim

NORA JOHNSON

brought to you by Revolution Technology

euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY

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MAKE-UP trends come and go, but one look that will never go out of style is the classic red lip. From Marilyn Monroe to Taylor Swift, many influential women have cemented the red lip as their signature style. A go-to accessory to accompany their famous name. But the red lip isn’t only for the celebrities. As daunting as it can be, the thought of wearing something so bright, many women claim to feel significantly more confident once they incorporate it into their make-up routine. As if the little tube is imbued with magical powers. A red lip communicates an unflinching confidence and an unabashed boldness. The colour demands attention without looking out of place, making the

THERE are certain aspects of an exercise routine that are essential to success: consistency, determination and, believe it or not, rest. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or grow strong, rest days are crucial to reaching your goal. Exercise causes microscopic tears in the body’s muscle tissue. You’re literally breaking your body down to build it back up again. In order for the tissue to grow stronger, you need to give them a break so the tears can stitch back together. Muscles require high levels of glycogen to function properly. Over-exercising means glycogen levels are being depleted without the change to fill back up again. This can lead to muscle fatigue. You’ll soon find lifting a glass of water is difficult, let alone lifting weights. Taking rest days also

A red lip will never go out of style.

wearer feel as powerful as they look. While the bright cherry red is iconic, there are many other shades to try. From a glossy crimson to a deep burgundy, mix and match until you find the right shade for you. It’s an incredibly versatile style. As acceptable

in the office as it is on the dance floor, a helpful tool for any day to night look. There’s something about red lipstick that instantly elevates any outfit. Whether you’re dressed in a beautiful ball gown or a ratty t-shirt and sweats, a red lip is the perfect finishing touch.

Rest is best Credit: Shutterstock, PeopleImages

Shutterstock / Olena Zaskochenko

BLUE eyeshadow is back in the spotlight, proving that beauty trends never truly disappear, they simply reinvent themselves. Once considered bold or even risky, blue tones are now appearing on runways, red carpets and social media feeds, worn with confidence and modern flair. Blue eyeshadow has enjoyed iconic moments before. In the 1960s it became a symbol of mod fashion, famously worn by models like Twiggy. The 1980s embraced vivid electric blues paired with strong brows and blush, while the early 2000s saw frosted pastel shades Today’s revival blends nostalgia with refinement. popularised by pop culture and the original Barbie aesthetic. Today’s revival blends nostalgia and neutral lips keeps the look balanced with refinement, offering softer pigments, and contemporary. smoother textures and wearable finishes. Trends like this invite playfulness and This time around, blue is more versatile. self expression. Whether you remember Powder blues create a fresh daytime look, wearing blue years ago or are trying it for while navy and cobalt add drama for eve- the first time, the return of blue eyeshanings. Metallic and satin formulas reflect dow is a reminder that beauty should be light beautifully without looking heavy. fun, expressive and never limited by past Pairing blue eyeshadow with minimal skin rules.

Credit: Shutterstock, LightField Studios

Bluetiful eyes Classic glamour

Rest days are a vital part of a fitness routine.

lowers your chances of getting injured. When you wear down and you’re past the point of exhaustion, one wrong step could pose a serious risk. Better a rest day of your own choosing than being out of action with an injury. Just because you’re

having a rest day, doesn’t mean you have to ditch your fitness routine entirely. Take this opportunity to focus on stretching, massaging all the muscles that ache and eating a well-rounded meal to fuel your next trip to the gym.

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com RED hot showers are divine, the perfect way to end a long day. However, science suggests cold showers actually provide more healing benefits. For one thing, cold showers boost blood circulation through the body. The cold temperatures cause blood vessels to tighten. In an effort to conserve energy, the body naturally redirects blood to where it’s most

Polar plunge needed, including vital organs. While this is an effective method to strengthen cardiovascular health, anyone diagnosed with heart disease should consult their doctor before giving it a try.

You might think a nice hot soak will help relieve aches and pains, but cold water is just as beneficial for soothing aching muscles. There’s a reason athletes often take a cold plunge after a gruelling

Eco beauty Credit: Shutterstock, Pixel-Shot

AN eco-friendly makeup routine is more than just a beauty trend, it’s a conscious choice to care for your skin and the planet. Reducing waste, limiting consumption and choosing sustainable products are small changes in your habits that can have a meaningful impact, protecting the world’s natural beauty. The first step is simply to use what you have. It’ll benefit the planet, and your purse. Use every drop of mascara, cut open the foundation tube to use the last little bit, keep using the blush until there’s nothing left. If you’re rooting through your make-up bag and find products that simply don’t fit into your routine anymore, don’t bin them. As long as they’re in good condition and not out of date, try offering them to friends and family who get more use out of them. When it

12 - 18 March 2026

Make your make-up routine eco-friendly.

is time to throw things away, recycle correctly. From there, only buy what you need. Brands try to trick consumers with ‘limited edition’ products that are only available for a short time. Before heading to the checkout, consider if you actually want and

need the products in your basket or have you fallen into a capitalist trap. When it does come to restocking, opt for eco-friendly brands. Brands that use vegan formulas, sustainable packaging or even offer re-fills at a reduced price.

Credit: Shutterstock, ViDI Studio

Hot showers are nice, but cold showers can improve health.

game or training session. The cold eases inflammation. It also helps

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numb the body, slowing the pain transmission to the brain. They can also help facilitate mental clarity. A cold shower can certainly be a shock to the system, a way to wake up a body still clinging to the remnants of sleep. For some, a cold shower replaces their cup of coffee in the morning, serving as a natural energy boost to kick start the day.

Discovering the Mediterranean way: One place at a time MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE EXPERT MIGUEL FRANCO ONE of the best ways to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle is simply to explore it. Andalucia is full of places where daily life still moves at its own relaxed rhythm. Take El Palo, the old fisherman’s neighbourhood just east of Malaga. Along the beach you’ll see small boats resting on the sand while locals gather around open fires where espetos, fresh sardines are grilled slowly over wood. It’s simple food, but it captures the essence of Mediterranean living: fresh ingredients, sea air and people sharing meals together outdoors. Travel a little further inland and another Mediterranean tradition appears, olive oil. Visiting a traditional olive oil bodega offers a fascinating glimpse into how olives are harvested and pressed into the golden oil that has been part of Mediterranean cuisine and health for centuries. And then there are the famous white

Fresh sardines grilled over wood.

villages of Andalucia. Walking through their narrow streets, past flower-covered balconies and quiet plazas, you naturally slow down and take in the atmosphere. Experiences like these remind us that the Mediterranean lifestyle is about more than food. It’s about movement, fresh air, community and enjoying life at a calmer pace. Sometimes the best way to understand this way of living is simply to go out, walk through it and discover it for yourself. Read the full article online.

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

FEATURE

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Grand Prix 2026 MARBELLA MOMENTS BY NICOLE KING ONE of the biggest events in elite rhythmic gymnastics is happening once again in Marbella later this month: the 2026 International Grand Prix. This is the 18th year that Marbella hosts this event which will take place at the Elena Benítez Sports Hall in San Pedro Alcantara. The world’s top-ranked gymnasts will be competing, bringing together 30 of the world’s highest-ranked gymnasts, including European, world and Olympic medallists. Among the leading names competing are Italy’s Sofia Raffaeli, Ukraine’s Taissiia Onofrichuk and Spain’s Alba Bautista. The weekend will also feature several parallel tournaments, including a new addition this year, the International Group Tournament organised by Fundación Unicaja. The Diputación de Malaga National Base Groups Tournament will have more than 500 gymnasts and 100 teams taking part, the National Absolute Groups Tournament organised by Fundación Unicaja another with 50 teams and around 230 participants, as well as the International

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Zorba & friends: Deliveroo for alley cats FROM COAST TO COAST

English Edition 1pm Saturdays

Junior Andalucia Cup. That’s a lot of people about to descend on San Pedro. Marbella is already a regular host for international rhythmic gymnastics events and soon we will also have one of the best high-performance training centres in Europe, with renovation works now close to completion. Apparently, the US, Canadian and Spanish national teams have already confirmed they will visit this summer to train here as our installations are so good. For more local news, join me on Saturdays at 1pm for ‘English Edition’ on our town hall TV station, RTV Marbella with weekly news updates, including major sporting events, healthcare facilities, grants, investments, new hotels and leisure options, roadworks, as well as interviews with local international residents, a real slice of what’s going on in Marbella now.

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

EVERY night after leaving my office, I developed a habit. At first, just a small detour… harmless, innocent even. But soon it hooked me - until I realised: I had officially become the alley cats’ dad. Even after a 12-hour shift, the thought of seeing my little gang brings me back to life. It’s almost like meeting friends at the bar - except here, I’m the waiter. And the one paying the bill. Clever paws. By now they know the exact sound of the office door - the clicks, the tiny creaks, every movement. The moment they hear it… they run like furry missiles. Which would be adorable if there weren’t a street full of cars between us. Every evening my heart does backflips while my head swings like a nervous traffic controller: “Please… stay there. Don’t rush… not today. Let everyone survive the crossing.” Then they appear like furry ninjas - hiding in bushes, under cars, behind trash bins… Suddenly, little heads and tails pop out of nowhere.

I can almost hear them whispering: “Hey guys… come out! Deliveroo’s here! Hurry before the food gets cold!” A second later, they swarm me jumping, meowing, circling my legs: “Where’s the food? Where’s dinner?” And there, in the chaos, sits Zorba - black as midnight, ear slightly crunchy from a long-forgotten adventure, green eyes like tiny emerald spotlights, surveying his gang like a wise, slightly grumpy general. He moves slowly, deliberately. Authority does not rush. Marife, green-eyed and fearless, handles security. Félix - classic black-and-white, suspicious of oxygen itself - lets Zorba or Marife taste first. Only then does he step forward, giving me the side-eye like I might poison them. They eat with such pleasure I almost salivate myself. One of these days, I’ll bring my own cutlery. And that’s when you quietly think: It hasn’t been such a bad day after all. The evening ritual of kindness pays off. They finish. I leave. Until the next day.

To be continued.

Shutterstock lucky eyes

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

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Roy Trevor Removals; Established in the UK since 1918 ROY TREVOR REMOVALS, operating in Spain under the Spanish company name, Moving Matters SL, has enjoyed unprecedented success and repute on the Costa del Sol for 34 years. The company is run by sisters Julea and Ruth and their professional team, who bring charm, finesse and a wealth of experience to the business. Roy Trevor Removals are an international removals and storage company, and their Spanish depot, located in Mijas Costa, has a long history of dedicated customer service, fair pricing and the knowledge to cater to their clients’ needs. The company operate their own fleet of vehicles, offering regular services to the UK, Europe and removals further abroad. They have a long-serving team of professional and experienced removal men. All of the work is done by Roy Trevor employees, guaranteeing their mark of excellence in terms of service.

The Mijas Costa depot not only provides every type of moving service; collection, packing, local, European and International moves, they also have three extensive warehouses with more than 300 containers, which can cater for both short and long-term storage requirements. In addition, Roy Trevor Removals has expanded to encompass secure archive storage solutions for any business or organisation under the banner of DataSpace

España. Providing barcode tracking, daily retrieval service, secure storage for control of confidential physical data, this side of the business is also fully-licensed and has all the required Data Protection certificates to operate. (LOPD accredited) A service tailored to Lawyers, Accountants, Notaries etc. Since 2009, DataSpace España whilst being one of the foremost archive storage centres on the Costa del Sol, are constantly upda-

ting their methods and technology allowing them to pinpoint the exact location of all files stored within their secure facility. Thus ensuring an efficient, space-conscious and safe way to store paperwork for businesses freeing up valuable office space and man hours. Roy Trevor Removals in Mijas Costa are a family owned company that really do provide a personal touch to their services. Julea, who has run the company since its inception in 1992, knows her business inside and out. Providing a free no obligation site survey, her straightforward approach and honest advice ensures that decisions are made swiftly and her clients have realistic expectations of their move to and from Spain. It is this individual and practical approach to each move and to each client that has earned Roy Trevor Removals phenomenal and long-lasting success in the Spanish side of its operations.

Tel. 951 311 118 - 951 311 123 • Website. www.moving-matters-sl.com

Credit : Kittyfly, Shutterstock

Travellers departing from Spain must carry a valid physical ID or passport to enter Germany.

TRAVELLERS from Spain to Germany must carry a valid physical identity document. German authorities warn that passengers without the correct paperwork - even digital copies or alternative IDs - can be refused entry or denied boarding. Although Spain and Germany are part of the Schengen Area, allowing passport-free travel in principle, travellers are legally required to carry an official identity document. Only a valid passport or physical national identity card is accepted. For Spanish citizens, this means their DNI or passport. Other forms of ID, such as driving licences, residence cards, health cards or family books, cannot be used for international travel. Digital IDs, photos stored on phones or digital wallet versions are also not recognised.

Airlines often enforce this rule before passengers reach border control. Those arriving at the airport without a valid passport or national ID may be refused boarding at check-in. The rule is particularly relevant for expatriates in Spain, many of whom travel regularly across Europe. Some rely on Spanish residence cards or driving licences locally, but these are not accepted across borders. British residents must travel with a passport, while other EU citizens may use either document but must carry the original. Checks have increased as Germany strengthens identity controls at borders and transport hubs. Travel experts advise always carrying your original passport or ID, as forgetting it can quickly turn a routine trip into a costly disruption.

THE European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing a new generation of euro banknotes, with redesigned visuals and enhanced security features expected to be finalised in 2026. Current notes are not being withdrawn and will remain valid for everyday use. The transition will be gradual, so most people are unlikely to notice immediate changes. The update reflects a broader effort to modernise Europe’s currency while maintaining confidence in physical money. The redesign aims to make banknotes more culturally relatable and secure. Early discussions suggest themes could include figures such as Beethoven, Marie Curie or Leonardo da Vinci, alongside nature-inspired imagery of rivers, wildlife and landscapes. Unusually, the ECB plans to involve the public through consultations and a design competition before finalising the new notes. Even after approval, production and rollout will take

Credit : sasirin pamai, Shutterstock

Germany border ID Euro notes evolve

Euro banknotes set for redesign as ECB prepares future currency update.

several years to ensure a phased introduction. There will be no sudden exchange requirement. As with past updates, such as the €500 note withdrawn from printing in 2019, older notes will continue to be accepted. The announcement coincides with development of the digital euro, prompting speculation about the end of cash. ECB officials emphasi-

se that digital euro payments will complement, not replace, physical currency. Cash remains vital for accessibility and resilience during technical outages. For now, existing euro banknotes remain fully valid. The forthcoming redesign aims to strengthen security, refresh symbolism and reflect evolving payment habits, while preserving the familiar cash people use daily.

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FACT

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Barkless dog

If you thought all dogs barked, then prepare yourself for this dog fact. The Basenji dog doesn’t tend to bark. They are not mute, but due to the shape of their larynx, they are known instead to create a range of sounds including yodels, growls, whines, or howls. The Basenji is a small dog breed from Africa.

How do you find house and petsitters? Check reviews REVIEWS for house-sitters and their house-sitting platform are important Many home and pet owners worry about meeting new sitters. It is a natural concern. However, by doing the due diligence, choosing a good house-sitting platform and reading the reviews for both the platform and the house-sitters, you will learn a great deal and then you can decide how to trust in your choice of sitter. You can relax on holiday knowing your pets are being cared for in their own environment, at no cost to you by sitters that are recommended. The pet-sitters will offer their time and service in exchange for free accommodation. It allows the sitter to discover a new location from the comfort of your home. It’s like old fashioned barter. How it works

Finding good sitters for Millie is important, so Wendy reads reviews.

1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com as a homeowner 2. Create your profile with photos of your home and pets 3. Review applications and video chat with potential house-sitters

4. Match with the perfect petsitter and enjoy your holiday worry-free Real savings, real peace of mind Every house-sit benefits everyone. Your pets receive one-onone attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Lucy - she saves more than €1,500 annually using house-sitters instead of boarding kennels. For a small annual registration fee, you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday. Join today Register at HouseSitMatch. com and use code WELCOME50 for 50 per cent off your first year.

Lamia Walker, Founder. Call: +44 (0)7772 142742 Rated Excellent on Trustpilot - 4.9/5

Calm coexistence INTRODUCING a cat and dog to each other can be challenging. The key to developing a strong bond, or at least a happy coexistence is a little bit of patience, and a lot of careful planning. Their introduction to each other needs to be slow and gradual. Before a face-to-face meeting, let them grow familiar with the other’s scent. Place toys or blankets used by one animal in the space of the other, allowing them plenty of time to literally sniff each other out. By the time they meet, it’ll almost be as if they already know each other, reducing anxiety and preventing confrontation.

The first face-to-face meeting should be controlled. Keep your dog on a lead and let the cat approach at their own pace. Reward calm behaviour with treats or praise, creating positive associations. Never force interaction, as this can increase stress and hostility. It’s really important that each animal has their own designated safe space. Cats appreciate vertical areas such as shelves or cat trees, while

A happy coexistence is possible at least.

dogs need a quiet retreat like a bed or crate. Maintaining separate food and water areas also helps to avoid competition or territorial disputes. Each animal is different. Some may need longer to adjust but with consistency, patience, and understanding, your cat and dog can develop a peaceful, even affectionate, relationship.

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Dog park pros

Lots of space to run and play.

As dogs become more integrated into families, cities are developing more dog friendly spaces. One such space is the dog park. More than anything, dog parks are great for socialisation. The designated space allows dogs to roam free and interact with each other in a way they can’t on the street. This helps dogs learn how to behave off lead and around other dogs, and also helps them gain independence away from their owners. With plenty of fenced-in space, dog parks also serve as a way for dogs to stay active. Owners can take toys to play fetch, or let their pup run around with their new four-legged friends. Many modern dog parks are also fitted with dog-friendly play equipment, offering more ways to keep dogs stimulated and engaged. There are certain drawbacks to dog par-

ks. For one thing, there’s always a slight risk of injury. Dogs may fight or hurt each other during rough play. It’s essential to remain vigilant. Additionally, lots of dogs in one space can lead to the spread of disease and parasites, so make sure to maintain regular vaccinations.

EMOTIONAL support pets (ESPs) provide way more than companionship, they offer genuine emotional relief. While service animals are trained for specific tasks and medical conditions, ESPs help alleviate stress, anxiety and depression simply through their presence. Their ‘support’ comes from companionship, affection, and the routine of caring for an animal. The bond between a person and their emotional support animal can reduce feelings of loneliness, promote a sense of security and stability that improves mental well-being. Common ESPs include dogs, cats, and even smaller animals like rabbits or guinea pigs. Their unconditional affection can help regulate mood and lower stress levels, often providing comfort during challenging situations or mental health crises. In fact, studies show that spending

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Supportive pets time with pets can lower blood pressure and release endorphins, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. While not granted full public access like service animals, emotional support pets play a crucial role in therapy and everyday life. In a world where emotional stress is increasingly common, emotional support pets remind us of the power of connection, care, and empathy, demonstrating that sometimes, comfort comes on four paws.

Credit: Shutterstock, rai106

Emotional support pets offer love and companionship.

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• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers • Costa Blanca South

Costa Blanca North

Powerful participation

Javea hosts charity row

ALICANTE celebrated the morning of International Women’s Day in a major way, with the long-awaited fourth edition of the Women’s Race. The event has had the largest participation so far, with more than 1,200 people taking part in the race at the Sergio Melgares Park in Alicante. This year’s edition of the race was especially significant, since the proceeds from the registrations went to the Alicante Provincial Association of Women with Breast Cancer. The event, which combined sporting and charity, took place on a 4.5-kilometre urban circuit in the PAU 5 area of the San Juan Beach, making for a significant but idyllic challenge for the participants. Of the 1,200 people who raced, a whopping 85 per cent were women, showcasing the solidarity of women in Alicante and beyond on this important international day of observance. Trophies were distributed to the top three finishers in the running category.

JAVEA’S coastline became the setting for a powerful show of community spirit on International Women’s Day - as the town hosted the first 100 Paladas Solidarias rowing challenge in support of breast cancer awareness. The charity sporting event took place in the bay of Javea, bringing together rowing clubs from across the Valencian Community. Around 90 athletes travelled from towns including Denia, Oliva, Benidorm, Santa Pola and Alicante to take part, alongside local rowers from Javea. Participants competed aboard traditional Falucho Llaüt Valencià boats, a style of rowing vessel strongly associated with the Mediterranean coast. The event combined competitive racing with a clear message of solidarity and support for those affected by breast cancer. One of the most moving moments was the ‘100 Paladas Solidarias’ race, where teams of breast cancer survivors rowed a 1,000-metre course.

Axarquia

Almeria

Coastal housing hope

Running towards equality

RESIDENTS in the coastal Granada towns of Motril, Salobreña, and Almuñecar are going to benefit from a major regional initiative aimed at increasing affordable housing. By joining the Junta de Andalucia’s urgent housing plan, these municipalities will fast-track urban planning, release dormant land, and streamline approvals for price-protected developments. The scheme, which already includes over 110 Andalucian municipalities, covers 5.5 million residents. In Granada Province, towns such as Loja, Alhendin, and the provincial capital have also signed up. Authorities confirmed on Monday, March 9 that the measures are designed to moderate market prices naturally by increasing supply, while simultaneously stimulating the local economy through construction jobs. Access to these homes is determined by a transparent points-based system, making them available to both locals and foreign residents.

MOJACAR’S Women’s Day Race has become synonymous with unity and teamwork. The 2026 edition was no different. A large number of people gathered with families and friends to celebrate International Women’s Day, all there to promote equality and run towards progress, not from it. The day began at 11.00am with the ‘Peque Playfest’, a space dedicated to engaging and exciting activities for young children. The main event of this programme was the ‘Teddy Bear Hospital’ where children dressed up like doctors, their bright red stethoscopes standing out against the stark white of their lab coats. Once dressed the part, the mini-doctors attended to teddy bears laid out on hospital beds. The activity combined imaginative play with educational guidance as Red Cross members helped them care for their stuffed-patients. While awards were presented to the top three finishers, the event was less about competition and more about coming together as a community.

Mallorca

Costa Calida

Brits spark spring season

Purple protest

MALLORCA is preparing for another tourism surge as flight bookings to the Balearic Islands rise sharply ahead of the spring and summer season. Airline industry data shows that nearly 9.9 million airline seats have been scheduled to Spain in March, representing a 5.4 per cent increase compared with the same month last year. The Balearic Islands are expected to capture a significant share of that demand, with Mallorca once again ranking among the most sought-after Mediterranean destinations. Much of the growth is being driven by the UK market. Flight capacity from Britain has increased by around 7.1 per cent year-on-year, outpacing other key international markets including Germany and the United States. For residents and expatriates living on the island, the figures suggest the busy tourist season could start earlier than usual this year. Palma de Mallorca Airport remains one of Spain’s busiest gateways.

THOUSANDS of citizens in the Region of Murcia came together on International Women’s Day under the slogan, ‘Together against inequality and precarity’. According to the organisers of the event, the Feminist Assembly of the Region of Murcia, some 15,000 people gathered on the international day of observance to march in the city centre of Murcia, protesting inequality in the workplace, violence against women and other gender-related issues. More than 20 organisations, assemblies and groups took part in the demonstration. The event was lively, powerful and united thousands of citizens, as women and girls danced together under one unifying cause. The march finally ended as a booming success in Plaza Martínez Tornel, next to the Puente de los Peligros. Following that, at 8.00pm, there was another demonstration that took place at the Plaza de Fuensanta of Murcia, with the participation of several women’s rights organisations.

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MOTORING

UK-inspired lights

Some welcome news for Spanish traffic lights.

leading to more fluid circulation without requiring expensive infrastructure upgrades. Beyond improving traffic flow during peak hours, the system is expected to reduce the unnecessary acceleration and ‘horn-honking’ common at Spanish intersections when distracted drivers fail to notice a green light. While new to Spain, this sequence is already standard in several Eu-

ropean nations, including Germany and Denmark. Following initial rollouts at major junctions like Calle Severo Ochoa, local authorities plan to extend the system across the city. Officials remind motorists that the red-amber combination still means ‘stop’; movement is only permitted when the green signal appears. Let’s hope they adopt UK roundabout rules too!

A SHORT road experiment using glow-inthe-dark markings is attracting attention after drivers reported improved visibility and confidence at night. Tested on a 250-metre stretch in Malaysia’s Hulu Langat district, the fluorescent green lines absorb

SPAIN’S vehicle registration system is quietly advancing in 2026, with new cars now appearing with number plate combinations such as NKM and NKN. The natural progression of Spain’s structured numbering system draws attention because plate letters can indicate when a vehicle was first registered. The current format uses four numbers followed by three letters, advancing automatically with each registration. With around 4,000 vehicles added daily, the sequence moves steadily, offering a chronological snapshot of the country’s growing fleet. Authorities expect plates beginning with the letter P to appear by late 2026 or early 2027. The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) keeps

Credit : Ernest Rose, Shutterstock

Letters on the move Credit: Movilidad Granada

GRANADA has become the first Spanish city to trial a new traffic light sequence designed to reduce urban congestion and emissions. Drawing direct inspiration from the United Kingdom, the system introduces a brief ‘warning phase’ where red and amber lights illuminate simultaneously for approximately two seconds before switching to green. This ‘get-ready’ signal, which began operating in February, aims to eliminate the typical reaction delay of up to 1.5 seconds. While drivers must remain stationary during the dual-light phase, the interval allows them to engage gear and release handbrakes, ensuring a smoother departure once the light turns green. The Granada Area of Mobility stated that the change compensates for human perception times,

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Spain’s modern licence plate system continues evolving as new letter sequences roll out in 2026.

updated records online for those wishing to track the latest lettering. Not every combination appears on Spanish plates. Vowels, Ñ, Q and certain pairings such as LL and CH are excluded to avoid recognisable words, confusion, or misreading. Despite these limits, the system allows roughly 80 million combinations, meaning it should remain viable for decades.

The nationwide format replaced the provincial system in 2000, removing regional identifiers and aligning with the European-style design still in use. The first modern plate, 0000 BBB, went to a Mercedes in Vitoria, starting a sequence that has steadily advanced for over 25 years. For drivers, these evolving letters offer a small but telling detail of a vehicle’s place in time.

Glowing road trial sunlight by day and emit a soft glow after dark, offering clearer guidance on poorly lit roads. The trial highlights a simple but potentially effective approach to road safety, particularly on rural or secondary routes where conventional white markings fade after sunset. Drivers on the test section said the glowing centre line was noticeably easier to follow, even in wet conditions when reflections from standard paint weaken. The glow provides subtle contrast against dark surroundings, helping drivers maintain lane position without relying solely on headlights. The concept targets quieter roads, where narrow lanes increase the risk of drifting toward oncoming traffic. Similar experiments have taken place in Aus-

Credit : revista.dgt.es

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Fluorescent road lines tested to help drivers see lanes more clearly in dark conditions.

tralia and the Netherlands, using glow-based paint for roads, cycle lanes, and pedestrian guidance. The aim is to improve visual cues in areas where full street lighting is costly or impractical. However, fluorescent paint is far more expensive than standard materials, limiting large-scale adoption to high-risk locations.

Although Spain has not tested glowing lines, authorities already use visual road designs to influence behaviour. The experiment shows that small visual changes can enhance safety without major infrastructure investment. Early feedback suggests glow markings could make night driving clearer and more comfortable.

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2026 Cupra Born revealed – subtle style with enhanced technology ROAD TEST By Mark Slack CUPRA has launched the latest version of its Born, which was the brand’s first all-electric car. An impressive car when launched it stood out from the other rather look-a-like EVs at the time and in its latest guise it has retained the style advantage to this writer’s view. The changes to the styling are subtle as little change was needed to the original. However, more detail changes to the interior and batteries make this more than just a facelift. Depending on trim level there’s an array of styling detail from copper highlights on the exterior and interior, along with superbly comfortable sculptured seats, and bucket seats on the sporting VZ model, plus generous equipment levels across the range. Admittedly the bucket seats in the VZ do somewhat close in the rear seats but

are still very worthwhile. The new Born’s exterior design features restyled front and rear bumpers, triangular Matrix LED lights and an illuminated CUPRA logo integrated into the 3D rear light. It avoids adopting the all too frequent slab front design that seems to be in vogue amongst a lot of EVs. This latest Born is sensibly an evolution rather than revolution. Inside, there’s a redesigned steering wheel featuring physical

controls, a general higher quality feel thanks to new textures and fabrics, and a larger 10.25”/26cm digital cockpit supported by augmented reality head-up display. The sound system has also been upgraded with Sennheiser Contrabass technology to deliver an improved bass performance. When it comes to performance, this latest Born delivers the usual EV electrifying - excuse the pun - performance with the 326hp

VZ model passing the benchmark 100kph/62mph time in 5.6 seconds. Even the non-performance versions have very decent performance. There are four-motor-battery configurations to choose from, launch control, the new One Pedal Driving System, and wider tyres for both 48cm/19” and 50cm/20” wheels. The Born V1 and V2 is capable of achieving around 449km/279 miles range on the 58kWh battery, with both models and the VZ capable of a range of around 598km/372 miles on the enhanced 79kWh battery. The car can also be customised with six exterior colours - including the new Timanfaya Grey. Cupra’s Born has always proved a nice place to be on any journey and has a character lacking in many rivals, and it has managed a pleasingly different personality to its VW stablemate, the ID.3. Launched officially last week driving impressions, prices and more detailed specification will be available soon.

SPORT

Cycling weekend Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Winners from the last awards ceremony. Marbella cycling weekend returns. pant slots have been filled, with a waiting list in place. The programme features rides through Marbella and nearby areas, technical workshops, and a roundtable with industry professionals. Local clubs have been invited to participate, and young Marbella cyclists competing nationally will have the chance to learn from

established athletes. Vieytes praised the presence of Luis Ángel Maté, calling it “a privilege for the city and a highlight for the event.” Maté added that bringing together athletes, industry representatives, and media professionals aims to position Marbella at the centre of the international cycling scene.

Marbella Half Marathon

REGISTRATION for the 2026 Marbella Half Marathon is now open, with organisers aiming to attract 3,000 runners - 500 more than last year. The race will take place on September 27. Sports councillor Lisandro Vieytes said the event is now one of the first half marathons to open the national calendar. Local athletes holding the municipal sports card can secure their place for €10 until April 15, a reduced fee designed to encourage participation. They will also compete in a dedicated category.

Sports awards launched

Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Registration opened on Monday March 2. In 2025, all race numbers were allocated months before the start, reflecting strong demand. Organisers want to build on that momen-

tum, drawing competitors from more than 50 nationalities and strengthening the event’s sporting and economic impact. International registration platforms will again be available. Early entry fees for the general public are set at €20 until April 15, rising to €25 until May 31, €30 between June 1 and August 31, and €40 from September 1, subject to availability.

ESTEPONA Town Hall has opened applications for the fifth edition of its Sports Merit Awards, setting aside €22,000 to support local athletes who excelled in official competitions during 2025. The scheme is aimed at competitors registered on the municipal census who achieved results in recognised disciplines approved by the Consejo Superior de Deportes. The councillor attached to the Sports Department, Luis Gil, confirmed that the funding is intended to provide athletes with greater resources to continue improving their technical level and strengthening high-level and competitive sport at regional, national and international stages. Last year, 33 athletes received financial awards in recognition of their

efforts to remain at the top of their disciplines and for promoting Estepona through their achievements. According to the rules, applicants must have been registered as residents in Estepona since at least January 1, 2025, and hold a valid licence from an Andalucian or Spanish sports federation from the same date in the category for which they are submitting results. Eligible sports must be Olympic disciplines or officially recognised. Three award categories have been established, ranging from runners-up in Andalucia to champions of Spain and those achieving European, world or international titles. Application forms and full details are available on the town hall website, with a deadline set for Tuesday March 31.

Trek and orienteering FUENGIROLA Town Hall’s Youth Department has unveiled plans for a hiking and orienteering event in the Bosque del Juanar on Saturday March 21. The activity, aimed at young people aged between 14 and 35, will take place in the municipal area of Ojen. Registration is now open via the Tarjeta Ciudadana system. The cost is €5. Youth councillor Isaac Vargas described the day as an opportunity to spend time outdoors with friends while taking part in a structured group challenge. The programme will combine a guided hike with a team-based orienteering exercise. Participants will be given detailed maps showing the location of 18 checkpoints positioned across different points of interest within the natural setting. Each team must find the markers and complete tasks at each stop, including riddles, logic tests and practical challenges. No previous experience is required, organisers say, as the activity has been designed to suit all abilities. Specialist staff will accompany the group throughout the day.

Credit: Lucky Business / Shutterstock

MARBELLA will strengthen its standing as a top international destination for cycling and outdoor sport from March 13 to 15 with the second Marbella Cycling Weekend. The event, organised by the local council and professional cyclist Luis Ángel Maté, is set to attract prominent figures in the sport. Lisandro Vieytes, the city councillor for Sports, emphasised at the event launch that the weekend will “bring together sport, tourism and the natural environment in a setting unique to our municipality.” He highlighted that the area’s climate, roads and location between sea and mountains create an ideal arena for cycling. Following the success of the inaugural edition, all 70 partici-

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Credit: Ayuntamiento de Estepona

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Fuengirola plan youth adventure in Juanar forest.