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Costa del Sol - Issue No. 2079
8 - 14 May 2025
Dep. Legal MA-74-2004 - ISSN 2488-1562
Costa del Sol • No. 2079 • 8 - 14 May 2025
FREE
ILMAINEN
GRATIS
GRATIS
GRATIS
VRIJ
FREI
GRATUITO
A life celebrated
GGRATIS
LIVRE
FFREE
GRATIS
GRATUIT G
Credit: EWN
The man who defined the Costa del Sol
Alan, Mayor José Mª García Urbano, family and friends. ALAN JAMES, known by many as ‘the man who built the Costa del Sol’, has had a street name dedicated to him by Estepona Council. Attending the event on Tuesday, April 29 was José Mª García Urbano, the mayor of Estepona, to officially unveil the new street sign along with plenty of family, friends, colleagues and business partners. Now, named after Alan and Carol James, a couple who landed in the Costa del Sol 55 years ago, during the days of Franco, no one could have ever imagined
what Alan was going to do for the south coast of Spain. Self-taught in skills of accounting and management, after 15 years of working in the concrete business, he heard a rumour that Northern Europeans were becoming increasingly interested in buying second homes on the Spanish coast. While Spaniards tend to prefer to live close together, Alan knew that Northern European tastes were more for space and airiness, and so a new kind of Spanish coastal living was born.
Together with business partners who shared Alan’s vision, the Experience Group was formed. From construction, to electronics, from cruise ships to establishing the Costa del Sol’s first cricket and lawn bowls clubs, without Alan’s business prowess, the Costa del Sol would ne-
ver have looked as it does today. The unveiling event was kept a complete surprise from Alan as the crowd lined up to applaud the man who was one of the main figures defining what the Costa del Sol would be, because Alan James is the Costa del Sol.
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LOCAL NEWS
8 - 14 May 2025
FINALLY, after 15 years, the more than 70,000 Torremolinos residents will soon have a modern bus station, thanks to a joint initiative between the Junta de Andalucia and the local council. An agreement to collaborate on constructing a new transport hub has been signed, designed to
Bus station buzz
meet the needs of residents and visitors. The proposed site on a council-owned plot on Avenida de la Libertad, what was the old fire station, is close to the town hall and most major Dep. Legal A 42-2025 - ISSN 3015-1309
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roads links. Its proximity to where bus routes pass and taxi ranks are will make public transport links easier. However, its positioning in a traffic-heavy area is under review to make sure it complies with urban planning regulations. A more detailed agreement will follow soon, defining each administration’s financial contributions. “This is a firm step toward efficient, acces-
Credit: Tyk - Wiki CC
The old bus station in 2010.
sible, and sustainable public transport,” said
a spokesperson from the Junta, stressing the
improved quality of life and metropolitan integration. Mayor Del Cid noted that Torremolinos has lacked a bus station for more than 15 years, despite its role as a major transport link between the Costa del Sol and Malaga. By relocating the bus station, it is hoped that traffic congestion will be eased in the centre and serve over 15 regular routes connecting Malaga, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, and beyond, all managed by the Malaga Metropolitan Transport Consortium of buses.
Cleaner and greener THE Costa del Sol is becoming cleaner and greener, with new data showing a drop in the amount of rubbish collected across the region. In the first three months of 2025, 77,358 tonnes of household waste were processed, 5 per cent less than during the same period in 2024. The figures come from the Complejo Ambiental Costa del Sol, which manages waste for the western Costa del Sol area. The drop is good news, as it shows that local residents are trying to reduce what they throw away and recycle more. Marbella led the way with the most significant drop in general waste, down by 21 per cent compared to last year. Mijas and Istan also saw smaller but steady improvements. Recycling is up too. There was a 4 per cent rise in plastic and packaging (yellow bin) collections and a 12 per cent increase in paper and card-
Credit: Mancomunidad Municipios Costa del Sol Occidental
Complejo Ambiental Costa del Sol.
board (blue bin). Istan and Benahavis reported some of the biggest improvements. Glass recycling did drop slightly by 1 per cent, but some towns like Casares and Manilva saw big increases.
With more residents doing their bit, the region is moving closer to its goal of complete circular waste management and a greener future for everyone who lives on the Costa del Sol.
New York flights restart UNITED AIRLINES has reopened its direct Malaga-New York flight, strengthening the route in its third year of operation. The daily service, running until September 24, connects the Costa del Sol with New York-Newark. Flights depart Newark at 5.50pm, arriving in Malaga at 7.35am the next day. The return flight leaves Malaga at 9.35am, landing in New York at 12.10pm. This summer, United will offer 51,000 seats on
Credit: Junta de Andalucía.
United Airlines Boeing 757-200, from New York, lands at Malaga airport.
a Boeing 757-200, with 176 seats: 16 in Polaris business class, 42 in Economy Plus with extra legroom, and 118 in standard economy. According to the airline, flight bookings have been
sold out, particularly in business class and on both sides of the Atlantic. US passengers, mostly tourists, use Malaga as a gateway to Andalucia, exploring not just the Costa
del Sol but also Granada, Cordoba, Sevilla, and Cadiz for their dose of culture, cuisine, and art. Despite US tariff policies, there has been minimal impact on demand, according to the airline. A year-round service or additional US destinations from Malaga aren’t planned due to fleet and crew constraints, though the route expanded to daily flights earlier last year. There are currently offers to fly to New York from Malaga for around €490.
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NEWS
8 - 14 May 2025
Phone help for Spanish taxes Book early to avoid delays
FILING your Renta 2024 in Spain doesn’t have to mean forms or waiting rooms. This year, the Agencia Tributaria is offering a phone-based tax return service for those who prefer personal guidance over digital tools. You can now file your income tax by phone - no need to visit a tax office. However, you must book your appointment in advance. Booking and deadlines The phone service started on Monday May 6, and appointments can be booked until Thursday June 27. If you owe money and want to pay by direct debit, file by Tuesday June 25 to avoid penalties. Once booked, a Tax Agency representative will call during your chosen slot to help complete your return. Be ready - phone charged, documents at hand - and note the call may arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled. Missed calls may not be retried. Who should use it? The service is ideal for older adults, those in rural areas, or anyone preferring a human touch. Even if you’re tech-savvy, having expert help ensures accuracy. How to Book By phone: • Call 915 530 071 or 901 223 344 (Mon–Fri, 9am–
7pm) • Automated: 915 357 326 or 901 121 224 Online: • Visit the Agencia Tributaria website - ‘Cita Previa Renta’ section Via app: • Use the Tax Agency’s mobile app
You could still claim €3,000
Credit : Golden Brown, Shutterstock
por insuficiencia de cotizaciones’, it’s available to anyone who’s worked at least 90 days and becomes unemployed after November 1, 2024. You can even claim it if you have a part-time
Spain offers up to €3,000 in SEPE support for unemployed workers with short contribution periods.
Spain’s tech grant IF you’re self-employed or running a small business in Spain, there’s good news. The government is offering a €1,000 grant to help upgrade your computer. It’s part of an update to the Digital Kit programme, aimed at pushing freelancers and micro-businesses into the digital age. The grant is for freelancers and businesses with fewer than three employees, under Segment III of the Digital Kit scheme. The extra €1,000 must go towards buying a new computer with specific requirements: at least four processor cores, 2.9 GHz speed, 16GB RAM, a 512GB SSD, and the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1. It must also run a professional operating system with cybersecurity features. There’s a catch: for the first year, the computer technically belongs to the Digital Agent supplier. After 12 months, you can fully own it by paying just 15 per cent of the price. Applying is simple. Visit the AceleraPyme website, register, complete a short self-assessment, and select the ‘Secure Workstation’ option. Choose an official Digital Agent to handle the purchase. The €1,000 is deducted directly from the invoice, not paid to you. If you already received the initial €2,000 grant, you can still apply for the €1,000 top-up starting June 2025. The programme runs until June 30, 2025, with a €350 million budget. https://www.acelerapyme.gob.es/en
Book early for your preferred slot - and a stress-free tax season.
Lost job, no benefits? IF you lose your job in Spain and haven’t worked long enough to qualify for full unemployment benefits, SEPE’s €3,000 subsidy could help. Known as the ‘subsidio
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job, as long as your hours stay below full-time level. The amount paid is linked to the IPREM index: 95 per cent for the first six months, then 90 per cent and 80 per cent after a year. How long you receive payments depends on how long you worked from three months for 90 days worked, up to 21 months if you have family responsibilities. To apply, you must register as a jobseeker, sign an activity agreement, and prove you don’t exceed income limits. Applications can be made online, in
person with an appointment, or by post. You’ll need your ID, bank details, proof of family dependents if relevant, and your latest tax return. EU citizens must show their NIE certificate; non-EU nationals must show a valid residence card. If your family situation changes, you can extend your support - but you must notify SEPE within 12 months. The subsidy isn’t automatic, so applying within six months of unemployment is crucial. In an uncertain job market, this little-known help could make a real difference.
A biometric future PAYING with your face or fingerprint could soon be the new normal in Spain. Banks and major retailers are preparing to roll out biometric payment systems as early as 2026, meaning no more cards or phones needed. Instead, shoppers would register their fingerprint, face or iris with their bank - and use it to pay directly at the till. No internet connection required, no PIN to remember, just a quick scan. The system is designed to be safer than traditional methods, with biometric data being unique and much harder to steal than a physical wallet or mobile phone. A recent survey by Visa found that nearly half of Spaniards believe biometric payments are more secure, and 36 per cent say they would be happy to start using it within five years. Supermarkets, pharmacies and small shops are expected to be the first to offer the new payment option, needing only minor upgrades like biometric scanners. Given that millions already unlock phones and bank apps using fingerprint or facial recognition, the jump to full biometric payments might feel more natural than futuristic. Spain’s move reflects a growing global trend towards ultra-secure, seamless transactions. If all goes according to plan, by 2026 your body could be your new wallet - no card, no phone, just you.
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The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
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8 - 14 May 2025
FUENGIROLA is improving safety along its seafront promenade by building three new raised pedestrian crossings at Arroyo Real (near Stella Maris Hotel), Carvajal, and Torreblanca. The company currently upgrading the area’s drainage system will build the Torreblanca crossing. These additions will increase the total number of raised crossings on the Paseo Marítimo to 10, aimed at slowing cars down and making the street safer. The pedestrian crossings are to address
LOCAL NEWS
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Slow down Fuengirola continuous speeding issues in the 30 km/h area, often ignored by drivers of two- and four-wheeled vehicles. The need for improved safety measures came to the fore following a tragic Easter week accident, where an unlicensed, drunk driver, travelling at excessive speed, lost control, veered onto a restaurant terrace, and killed two people while injuring 10 others.
Included in the new strengthened safety measures, Fuengirola’s Local Police have intensified random citywide checks, targeting speeding, drink driving, seat belt and child restraint compliance, and distractions like mobile phone use. New traffic signs highlighting speed limits, along with fixed and mobile speed cameras, have also been installed.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola.
Installation of new speed bumps.
Michael O’Halloran ON Saturday, May 10, the 10th Darkness into Light walk will commemorate loved ones lost to suicide and raise funds for AFESOL, a mental health charity. Organised globally by Irish suicide and self-harm prevention charity Pieta, the Costa del Sol event is led by Dublin native Michael O’Halloran. Michael became involved with Pieta after his son, a 36-yearold single parent, died by suicide in 2010. “Starting with a small group of 20 in San Pedro in 2016, the event has grown significantly, reaching 540 participants post-Covid. “Now in its 10th year, the walk has raised more than €100,000 for AFESOL.” Michael has expanded the initiative to include walks in Benalmadena, La Cala de Mijas, and Estepona, plus fashion shows and a new event, Take Part Your
Credit: MO
Organisers Michael O’Halloran and Nuala.
Own Way. This year, Christopher Grenfell will hike Cruz de Juanar mountain in Marbella eight times in one day, inviting others to join him and sponsor him. The walks begin just before dawn at 6am on May 10 from: Benalmadena
(Plaza El Remo, La Carihuela-Torremolinos), Estepona (Chiringuito Blue Dolphin), and La Cala de Mijas (Outside Biddy Mulligans, Boulevard de La Cala). Tickets are €24, and available at darknessintoli ght.ie.
8 - 14 May 2025
MARBELLA NEWS
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Community grants Credit: Tanya Keisha - Shutterstock
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The grants are open to neighbourhood associations, federations and civic entities.
MARBELLA Council has set aside €128,100 for grants in 2025 to neighbourhood associations, federations, and civic entities, with a 35.56 per cent increase from last year. The funding has been described as a key help in strengthening Marbella’s associative fabric, playing a vital role in neighbourhoods, and fostering a more active participation in the community. The grants, which the many associations vie for, prioritise transparency and social cohesion and are open for applications via the municipal electronic portal until May 24. The extra financial help supports four main areas: socio-educational workshops (up to €5,000 per request), socially beneficial activities (up to €8,000), operational and maintenance costs (up
to €5,000), and purchasing equipment (up to €1,200). Each applicant can receive a maximum of €9,000 to strengthen internal structures, promote new technologies, bridge the digital divide, and give a boost to their neighbourhoods. In 2024, €80,014 was awarded to 12 groups, averaging at €6,584 per association, with 11 receiving 100 per cent of what they applied for. Notably, two in San Pedro Alcantara which joined the scheme last year, with up to five potentially eligible in 2025. The council has emphasised the goal of fostering vibrant associations as true drivers of transformation and coexistence, calling on groups to apply. Full details are available on the council website, and applicants must be registered in the Municipal Registry of Entities.
Lifeguards at the ready MARBELLA is getting its beaches ready for the peak season with its celebrated Lifeguard and Rescue Service. The service restarted during April and Easter and will now operate at weekends throughout May and on a daily basis from June, with one noteworthy change: an extended hour in July and August. From April to June 30 and September 1 to October 15, 26 lifeguards will cover the 27-km coastline from 12pm to 6pm. In peak season (July and August), 46 lifeguards will be on duty from 11am to 7pm daily. The team includes three jet skis, two 4x4 vehicles, and two ambulances. Local Police will patrol with three daily units,
Photo: Ayuntamiento de Marbella
The service will operate at weekends in May.
one plainclothes and two uniformed, using four quads and four drones. Civil Protection will deploy 10 volunteers in two shifts, based at La Bajadilla alongside the lifeguard service, equipped with two jet skis, a boat, two quads, a buggy, two motorcycles, three 4x4s, and two vans. Firefighters will participate with a boat, two jet skis, and an on-call emergency underwater unit.
To guarantee preparedness, the Marbella teams have already conducted their annual drill on Puerto Banus’s Levante beach, involving over 40 emergency personnel from Local Police, firefighters, civil protection, and lifeguards. The exercise tested coordination through a variety of scenarios like a missing child search, a mock boat collision, and an underwater sweep.
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LOCAL NEWS
8 - 14 May 2025
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Jenny begins her trek for the vital work of Cudeca.
TIRELESS, non-stop raisers of cash for local charities, Alan and Jenny Boardman are set to walk the final 120 kilometres of the Camino de Santiago, the historic pilgrimage route, to raise €1,000 for Cudeca. And they are looking for sponsors. The enormous hike will begin on June 4 and hopefully be completed on June 10 if they can cover approximately 17 kilometres a day to end up in Santiago de Compostela. Inspired by the exceptional care a friend received from Cudeca in her final days, the Boardmans, who have previously fundraised for the charity, are seeking donations to cover meals for seven hospi-
ce patients in Benalmadena for a year. All contributions through the Cudeca platform will go directly to the charity, with no third-party fees. Donors can choose to remain anonymous if they prefer. The couple are going to share updates on Facebook every day during the walk so invite supporters to follow their how far they’ve got. Their commitment comes from a deep appreciation for Cudeca’s work, which offers palliative care, comfort and dignity to patients and their families. To sponsor Alan and Jenny, look up ‘Alan & Jenny Camino de Santiago’ at cudeca.org.
MALAGA waves goodbye to its emblematic horse-drawn carriage rides for tourists, announcing an estimated €3,134,510 plan to buy back the remaining 25 licences. The council set the cost of each licence cancellation at €125,380, far exceeding previous estimates of €35,000. The move, recently approved, hopes to end the service in 2025, keeping in line with a 2015 ruling limiting licences to 20 years. Animal welfare concerns are behind the move, as well as Malaga’s climate and urban constraints as reasons for the phase-out, citing the activity’s incompatibility with modern city standards and public opinion. The carriages have been accused of causing more than €500,000 in damages to public roads, with owners refu-
Credit: Capturing Images - Shutterstock
Credit: AB - Facebook.
Hiking for Cudeca Adios to carriage rides
Malaga’s horse-drawn carriages.
sing rubber horseshoes. Also, the council spends €20,000 annually on cleaning facilities, a responsibility of coachmen. The plan, part of a €13.7 million budget modification, sets aside the saved €5 million for mobility, including €1.7 million for 23 electric buses for Malaga. Other expenses will go into LED streetlights (€2.55 million), neighbourhood repairs from
last November’s storms (€621,670), and housing rehabilitation in Carranque (€656,000). The council stated that horse-drawn carriages compromise public safety and animal health, marking a change of direction toward sustainable urban mobility in Malaga, a city increasingly spearheading environmental and infrastructural progress.
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LOCAL NEWS
8 - 14 May 2025
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Sports Stadium Torremolinos.
TORREMOLINOS is seeing a strong start to spring thanks to sports tourism. More than 1,000 foreign athletes visited the town in April, bringing an estimated €579,200 to the local economy. A total of 48 teams from across Europe trained at the municipal sports facilities. Most were from Germany, the UK, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands. Their presence not only filled hotels but also benefited local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and transport services. Swimming was the most popular sport, with 26 teams and more than 560 athletes training at the Virgen del Carmen III pool. Athletics was also well represented, with 323 athletes from 18 teams using the Ciudad de
Torremolinos Stadium. A few football and multi-sport teams were also in town. These athletes were expected to generate more than 7,200 hotel stays during their time here. With Easter bringing additional tourists, the economic boost was especially welcome for local hotels and businesses coming out of the quieter winter season. Sports tourism is growing each year in Torremolinos, and the town is becoming a favourite training destination for teams across Europe. Its mild climate, quality facilities and easy access to Malaga airport all help make it a top choice. With April being a busy start, Torremolinos continues strengthening its reputation as a hub for international sports tourism on the Costa del Sol.
THE United Nationalities of Marbella Summit 2025 is calling for urgent action to support the ageing international community on the Costa del Sol. This year’s event, taking place on Tuesday, May 20, at 11.30am in the Harbour Restaurant, will bring together charities, associations, and local stakeholders to discuss the growing needs of older residents. With around 276,000 people aged 65 and over in our region and many foreign retirees, the need for better support systems is clear. While some enjoy a good quality of life, others face serious challenges, especially when it comes to healthcare, social services, and dealing with Spanish bureaucracy. One key goal of the summit is to create a centralised helpline staffed by fluent Spanish
Credit: Jsme MILA
Credit: Torremolinos Town Hall, Facebook
Sport boosts Torremolinos Tackling elderly care
One aim is to improve access to qualified carers.
speakers to help elderly expats with paperwork and direct them to the right services. Organisers also want to build a shared network to improve access to qualified carers, nurses, and financial support. Language barriers, lack of coordination between services, and the rising cost of care mean many elderly residents
are falling through the cracks. By working together, we can create longterm solutions that ensure every elderly resident gets the help they need. For more information or to join the event, visit www.united-marbella.com. All sponsorship goes to Hadas Caradas charity to help provide free nurse visits for those most in need.
LOCAL NEWS
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Sustainable Estepona MARINAS DEL MEDITERRANEO and Turismo Marinero Costa del Sol have joined forces to bring the culture of the sea closer to Estepona’s residents and visitors. The two organisations have signed a collaboration agreement to promote sustainable tourism linked to the town’s fishing traditions and Mediterranean roots. Their goal is to highlight the sea’s importance in Estepona’s history while encouraging more responsible and eco-friendly tourism. Educational activities in Estepona Port. As part of the project, the Estepona Port will host a series of activities focusing on artisanal Costa del Sol, added: “We want to offer a fishing, marine culture, and the role of wo- more authentic and sustainable tourism exmen in the fishing sector. Visitors will be perience, one that respects and celebrates able to learn more about traditional fishing our roots.” methods, local seafood, and the vital work The project also supports the national being done to protect the marine environ- Red de Turismo Marinero, which aims to ment. boost sustainable tourism and protect coas“This agreement is a fantastic opportuni- tal communities across Spain. ty to show the value of our fishing heritage With Estepona Port as a model example, and connect the marina with the communi- the new project is set to strengthen the bond ty,” said Manuel Raigon, director of Mari- between the port, the town, and the sea, helnas del Mediterraneo. ping to preserve Estepona’s unique MediteSonia Cruz, CEO of Turismo Marinero rranean identity for future generations. Credit: Marinas del Mediterráneo
Credit: Torremlinos Town Hall
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Virgen del Carmen III Olympic swimming pool.
Olympic pool upgrades TORREMOLINOS has invested more than €60,000 to install new thermal covers at the Virgen del Carmen III Olympic swimming pool. This is the first time the pool has received this upgrade since 2011. The thermal covers help maintain water temperature by capturing solar heat and reducing heat loss. They also stop water from evaporating and help keep out dirt and debris, which reduces fuel use and makes the pool more energy-efficient.
The Virgen del Carmen III pool is a key sports facility in the area. It is often used by international swim teams who visit Torremolinos for training camps. Many of these teams stay in local hotels and spend money in shops and restaurants, boosting the local economy. Sports tourism is on the rise in Torremolinos. So far this year, more than 4,400 sports visitors have arrived in the town. That’s already close to the total for last year, which saw a 47 per cent
increase in sports tourists compared to 2023. Councillor for Sports Ramon Alcaide said the aim is to continue improving local sports facilities. “We want to offer high-quality infrastructure for residents and visiting athletes,” he explained. Torremolinos is becoming a top destination for sports tourism. The new pool covers are just one of many efforts to keep the town’s facilities modern, sustainable, and ready to welcome more visitors all year round.
LOCAL NEWS
CAPSULE hotels are making their mark in Malaga, offering a modern and affordable option for travellers seeking short-term stays. Originating from Japan in the late 1970s, these compact accommodations have evolved to meet European preferences, providing more space and enhanced amenities. Known for their convenience, cleanliness and high-tech features, they appeal especially to younger travellers and digital nomads. In Malaga, establishments like Futurotel Malagueta Beach and Good Vibes Only Capsule Hostel are leading this trend. These capsule hotels cater to a diverse clientele, from solo travellers to business professionals, offering a unique lodging experience that balances privacy and community.
Credit: Good Vibes Only Hostel
Capsule trend divides
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Animal therapy
Casita de Nilo opening with Mayor Margarita del Cid. Capsule accommodation in Malaga.
However, their rise isn’t without controversy. Some critics express concerns about the potential for these compact spaces to become substandard housing options, especially in cities already struggling with housing shortages and rising rental prices. There are fears that capsule hotels could be misused as long-term accommodation, bypassing regulations meant
to protect tenants and living standards. Despite the debates, the popularity of capsule hotels in Malaga continues to grow, reflecting a shift in traveller preferences towards more flexible and budget-friendly accommodations. As the city adapts to this emerging trend, capsule hotels may well become a staple in Malaga’s diverse hospitality landscape.
Walking football recruits CALAHONDA Walking Football Team is inviting those over 65 to join their fun, friendly, low-impact games at Finca Naundrup. Led by manager Brian Stanford, the team plays every Monday and Friday from 10am to 11am, offering a gentle way to stay active and enjoy football. “If you fancy a fun, welcoming game or just want to keep fit, come along,” says Brian. Contact him on 617 933 135 to join. Walking football, launched in England in 2011, is perfect for older adults or those seeking less intense exercise. Played at a walking pace, it bans running, tackling, and high balls, ensuring safety on smaller pitches. The sport boosts cardiovascular health, mobility, and mental well-being while encouraging camaraderie.
8 - 14 May 2025
Image: Sugar Radio
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Unlike Real Calahonda’s evening sessions for varied ages, Calahonda WFS focuses on daytime games for over60s, suiting those preferring morning activity. All skill levels are
welcome, with standard football gear and shin pads advised. Discover the joy of walking football and join a lively community dedicated to fun, fitness, and friendship.
JUST launched in Torremolinos is the ‘La Casita de Nilo’, a 66-square-metre facility at the Los Pinares employment centre, a space dedicated to animal-assisted interventions through the programme ‘El rinconcito de Nilo y sus amigos’. The space, funded by Aguas de Torremolinos, was unveiled with council officials and students from local schools in attendance. The scheme will offer seven free programmes, benefiting around 600 local people. The idea of the facility is to support diverse groups, including elderly people with disabilities and children, through workshops and activities that bring locals and animals closer together. These interactions are designed to improve integration, mental health, and social well-being, particularly for those who
need special attention. The council highlights research showing that companion animals, like dogs, improve quality of life and improve mental and social wellness. The programme includes therapy sessions at residences for the elderly, the Hospital Marítimo’s mental health unit, schools, and social welfare programmes, along with support for employment centre users. The Nilo Foundation is leading the initiative to promote therapy, education, and activities to better people’s development. The foundation also promotes environmental education, teaching students about the responsibility of owning a pet and positive canine training to improve animal welfare in general, creating a unique mix of community support and care.
LOCAL NEWS
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada:
Free bus Marbella
fashion meets art in Benalmadena Credit: Marbella Town Hall, Facebook
FREE bus travel for residents in Marbella has officially been extended until 2027. The announcement means that those registered as residents in the town, known as ‘empadronados’, can continue to travel on local buses without paying a fare for another two years. The free bus service was launched by the Marbella Town Hall in 2019 and has become one of the most popular public initiatives in the area. Since then, more than 91,000 residents have signed up for the free mobility card, giving them access to unlimited travel on the town’s bus network. According to the council, around 90 per cent of adult residents now use the service. The blue mobility
Felix Romero explaining the new measure.
cards, used by most residents, will be automatically renewed. Golden cards, available for people aged over 65, remain valid permanently. The goal is to make local travel easier, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly. So far, the free bus programme has cost the town hall around €28 million. In return, it has helped reduce traffic, cut family fuel costs, and encouraged
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more people to choose public transport over private cars. For Marbella’s expat community, the extension means continued savings and convenience. Those who have not yet applied for the card can still do so at their nearest town hall office. With the measure in place until 2027, Marbella continues to support residents and promote sustainable living on the Costa del Sol.
BOLD, bright, and impossible to ignore - Agatha Ruiz de la Prada’s world of colour has landed in Benalmadena. Her free exhibition is now open at the Centro de Exposiciones and runs until September 19, 2025. The Spanish designer, known for her playful shapes and loud prints, blurs the line between fashion and art. Her creations feel more like sculptures than clothes, and that’s precisely why they’re in a gallery. From oversized hearts to star-shaped gowns, every piece on display is full of fun and creativity. Agatha first made her mark in Madrid in the 1980s during the famous Movida Madrileña, a time when Spain’s art and fashion scene exploded with new energy. Since then, she’s become one of Spain’s most iconic designers, showing her work in New York, Paris, Tokyo, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada. and the Costa del Sol. Whether you love fashion, art, or something different, this exhibition is is open Tuesday to Saturday. Entry is worth visiting. It’s colourful, unique, free, and no booking is required. Don’t miss your chance to see the free, and a great way to spend an afterworld through Agatha Ruiz de la Pranoon in Benalmadena. The Centro de Exposiciones is loca- da’s eyes – it’s bold, joyful, and like noted on Avenida Antonio Machado and thing else you’ll find on the coast. Credit: Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Facebook
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FEATURE
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World of magic Credit: JL - Facebook
JOE LABERO has brought his awe-inspiring magic talents to Fuengirola for an electrifying show of illusions and laughs that have already captivated audiences globally. From playing cards that literally appear out of thin air to a jug of water that mysteriously continues to fill with water throughout the show to a levitating audience member, the whole show is cram-packed with awe, wonder and humour. This, the first big attraction at the newly remodelled Plaza de Toros in Fuengirola, is the beginning of a residency at the venue for Labero that will continue throughout the summer and into September. The show is full of surprises at every turn as the audience is taken on a journey of ever-increasingly impossible illusions, from the dark and mysterious masked men that greet visitors as they arrive and take them to their tables to the close interaction of Joe Labero with the audience and even Labero’s pet dog, who becomes part of the act. The audience were left with their jaws dropped as three
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Joe Labero draws his audience with showmanship, charm and humour.
audience members’ wedding rings were joined and then liberated again and how a playing card instantly appeared in a block of ice. Many of the illusions you won’t have seen before, as they are unique to Joe La-
bero, while some classics, such as the silver rings merging and separating, remain firm family favourites. But it’s the showmanship, charm and humour of this seasoned professional that is the draw after performing residencies
in Las Vegas, Australia and Stockholm, as well as his closeness with his audience. That closeness is enabled by the venue itself. Rather than a conventional theatre set-up with rows of seats, there is more of a nightclub
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feel with tables and an open bar, inviting Labero to take the show into the public area, with hidden cameras and four big screens on stage to make sure no one misses a second of the magic. Ninety minutes of fun and merriment flew by, followed by a photo call where the audience had the chance to have their photo taken with Joe Labero, just like scores of other celebrities such as Nicolas Cage, Bill Clinton, and Kiss have before. Labero’s Magic World is on at the Plaza de Toros, Fuengirola, on Calle Camilo José Cela, 12 in Fuengirola, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8.30. Ticket prices include dinner at the new Plaza de Toros restaurant, drinks and the show, an exclusive magical performance that intertwines illusions with a touch of mystique. Step into the world of ‘boutique magic’, where every act is carefully crafted to deliver a personal and intimate experience. Tickets are available from plazadetorosfuengirola.com starting at €59.
FEATURE
euroweeklynews.com
r u o Y VOICE
terstock / Evan El-Amin
14 8 - 14 May 2025
Trump launched an aggressive agenda.
Do you think Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office were successful? DONALD TRUMP’S return to the presidency has been nothing short of eventful. In just 100 days, he has signed a flurry of executive orders and made headlines across the globe. Despite the whirlwind of activity, his approval rating has plummeted to the lowest of any US president at this stage in the last 80 years. From day one, Trump launched an aggressive agenda - reinstating strict border controls, resulting in a reported 90 per cent drop in illegal crossings, though not without backlash from human rights advocates. Controversy followed him elsewhere too: his executive orders rolling back protections for gender identity, and pulling the US out of the WHO and the Paris Agreement have drawn criticism. His tariff moves shook global markets, allies are rethinking their ties, and European leaders are reinforcing their defences. It’s early yet - but if these 100 days are a sign, this term will be as divisive as the last. So, we asked our readers: Do you think President Trump’s first 100 days in office were successful? Supporters pointed to Trump’s adherence to campaign promises. Jenny Church remarked, “Yes. Look at the border. No illegals are arriving any more.
He’s planning to make America self-sufficient.” Geoffrey Wilson echoed this, “Yes. Trump has done what he said he would do.” Mike Muttley Mowforth added a nuanced view, commenting, “You only hear the stories and results the media want you to know. [...] He’s doing what he said he would (right or wrong) which is rare in politics.” Not all responses were positive. Bill Shearer provided a critical view: “If driving the US economy into the ground, then yes he is a success, otherwise he is a massive failure.” Valeria Olivares Piñeiro took a more global perspective, “It’s easy to clap from your home in a free country.” Other responses were more ambivalent. Sheree Ruiz suggested context is key: “ That would depend on what he hopes or plans to achieve and maybe if you are American or not.” Angela Edgley stated, “No. He may be ‘good’ for the USA but not for the rest of the world.” Finally, Maggie Hannan noted the question’s subjectivity: “I guess it is about what you want.” Overall, the responses highlighted a sharp divide between those who view Trump as a determined leader, and those who see his actions as reckless or harmful.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Fast-track beach repairs Casares Beach gathering Credit: Estepona Town Hall, Facebook.
Credit: Random Fun Adventures
ESTEPONA Town Hall is moving quickly to repair storm-damaged beaches in time for the summer season. Recent storms caused severe erosion, washing away large stretches of sand along the coast. With tourism season just around the corner, local authorities are working with Spain’s Coastal Department to speed up emergency works. The aim is to restore popular beaches like Playa del Cristo, La Rada, and El Padron before the first summer visitors arrive. Work has already begun in several areas. Lorries are bringing in fresh sand while machinery levels and reinforces the shore. The council confirmed these repairs are temporary but essential to ensure the beaches are safe and enjoyable this summer.
Full moon gathering in Casares. Machinery reinforces the shore in Estepona.
Longer-term solutions are still in the planning stage. These include new breakwaters and other protective measures to prevent further erosion. Estepona’s mayor stressed the importance of acting fast: “Our beaches are one of our biggest attractions. We need them in top condition for residents, businesses, and tourists.” Local expats and bu-
siness owners have welcomed the repairs, especially those running beachside bars and restaurants. If you live in Estepona or plan to visit, expect to see some activity along the coastline over the coming weeks. The goal is clear: restore the beaches quickly and keep Estepona looking its best for the busy months ahead.
CASARES residents and expats are looking to calm down and reconnect with themselves at a special full moon beach gathering on Sunday, May 11. Free to join on Casares beach from 8pm to 9.30pm, the monthly event invites locals and the expat community to enjoy an evening of peace with the sound of the waves kissing the shore. More and more are taking up the offer to soak up the full moon whether they are seasoned meditators or first-timers. Laura leads the gathering from Laura. Of.Love, a certified Theta Healer who guides the group through a gentle session of breathwork, moon meditation, journalling, and a
crystal cleanse. Attendees get the chance to release what no longer serves and even take a refreshing swim under the moonlight. For those who have it, the dress code is white, and people are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, blanket, water, snacks, crystals, and anything else that helps them feel comfortable. With summer on the horizon, Casares has found the perfect time to reset energy, meet like-minded people, and enjoy the calming sounds of the sea. Spaces are limited to 20, so be sure to RSVP as those keen on attending should look up Random Fun Adventures on Facebook.
Mijas gets to work MIJAS is showing a strong and steady improvement in its job market. New figures from the Junta de Andalucia reveal that unemployment in the Costa del Sol town dropped by 6.1 per cent in April compared to the same mon-
th last year, meaning there are now 364 fewer people out of work in the town, with the total number of unemployed standing at 5,613. Compared to March of this year, the number of job seekers has also gone down.
There are now 398 fewer people looking for work than the month before, a clear sign that Mijas is moving in the right direction. The latest data also shows a rise in the number of people registered with Social Security. In March, Mijas recorded 26,438 affiliates, which is 569 more than in March 2024 and 561 more than in February this year. This includes 17,509 people under the general employment scheme and 8,603 self-employed workers. The mayor of Mijas, Ana Mata, called the figures positive and said they prove the town is on the path to growth. She added that the local government will continue to support job creation and work on policies that help more people find stable employment. These results come as good news for residents and expats alike, showing that Mijas remains a dynamic place to live and work on the Costa del Sol.
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NEWS
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THE construction of an astonishing 18 km-long tunnel known as Fehmarnbelt, and at that, a prefabricated road and rail tunnel, is underway beneath the Baltic Sea, linking Denmark and Germany. The €7.4bn project, mostly funded by Denmark with €1.3bn from the European Commission, hopes to cut travel times and better Scandinavia’s connectivity with central Europe. Due to open in 2029, it will reduce the Rødbyhavn-Puttgarten journey from a 45-minute ferry to 10 minutes by car or seven by train and halve Copenhagen-Hamburg rail travel to 2.5 hours. On Denmark’s Lolland island, the 500-hectare construction site features a factory producing 90 massive 217-metre-long, 73,000-tonne tunnel elements. These are towed
Credit: Femern
New tunnel design linking Denmark with Germany. and immersed 40m into a seafloor trench with 15mm precision, a feat described as ‘Lego-like’ by Femern CEO Henrik Vincentsen. Unlike traditional tunnels, Fehmarnbelt’s elements rest on the seafloor due to soft clay and chalk bedrock. Although there has been intense opposition from ferry operators and German conservationists, who cited ecolo-
gical concerns for Baltic wildlife, a 2020 court ruling cleared the way for the construction. Mitigation includes a 300-hectare wetland reserve. The tunnel, with dual road and rail tubes plus an emergency corridor, is expected to serve 12,000 cars and 100 trains daily, facilitating jobs and tourism in Lolland while cutting transport emissions.
THINKING of swapping grey skies for golden sunsets? If your pension pot’s more piggy bank than jackpot, don’t despair. These four hidden gems in Spain might just be your golden ticket to budget bliss. Spain ranks fifth on International Living’s Global Retirement Index, thanks to its sunshine, healthcare, and low cost of living. Even on €1,000 a month, you can live well - and we’ve found the places where your pension goes furthest. Almuñecar, Granada is a standout. Set between mountains and the Med, this town offers affordable housing, a buzzing expat scene, and some of the longest beaches around. Snorkel in the morning, ski in the Sierra Nevada by afternoon, and toast the sunset with wine and tapas. Costa Blanca, Alicante is sunshine central. It’s long been a favourite with British expats, and it’s not hard to see why. Coastal charm, palm-lined promenades, and a relaxed pace of life - all at prices far lower than back home. Torrox, Malaga, boasts the best climate in Europe - 300 days of sun a year - and
Credit: Shutterstock, Photo Veterok
Longest ‘Lego’ tunnel Spain on €1,000
Spain’s top retirement spots on €1,000 a month: Dream or reality? Sun, sea, and savings on a budget.
rents from a r o u n d €600. Spacious, scenic, and well-connected to Malaga, it’s perfect for budget-conscious retirees. Prefer inland charm? Palencia, Castilla y Leon, is Spain’s cheapest city. Just 90 minutes from Madrid, it offers 30 per cent lower living costs, tranquil parks, and historic beauty. From beaches to budget-friendly cities, Spain proves retirement dreams don’t need millionaire means.
Ryanair late fee
Credit : Cristi Mitu, Shutterstock
A Ryanair aircraft preparing for takeoff as the airline introduces a new €120 fine for late passengers.
MISSING your Ryanair flight will now be a lot more expensive. Starting from May 1, 2025, the airline will impose a €120 fee on late passengers who want to rebook onto the next available service. The move, Ryanair says, is all about maintaining its punctuality record - and sending a strong message about respecting boarding times. Whether it’s a domestic or international flight, a promo ticket or a regular fare, the rule applies across the board, with no exceptions. CEO Michael O’Leary made it clear: “If you’re not at the gate on time, you’re delaying everyone else.” Ryanair already closes its gates 20 minutes before departure, but insiders say last-minute arrivals have surged in the past year, causing disruptions.
The €120 charge is designed to offset the real costs of rebooking and missed take-off slots. While some travellers support the idea - arguing that punctuality should be respected - others criticise the fee as unfair, pointing out that security delays or airport chaos are often beyond passengers’ control. Travel groups warn that families, elderly travellers and those unfamiliar with airports could be hardest hit. Despite the backlash, Ryanair is unlikely to soften its stance. Known for its tough policies and nofrills approach, the airline clearly believes strict rules are the best way to keep flights running on time. So if you’re flying Ryanair soon, make sure you don’t miss your boarding call - or be ready to pay up.
euroweeklynews.com Credit : Mehaniq, Shutterstock
Calculating income and wealth in Spain how much you need to be considered rich in 2024 .
NEWS
Fake flight vouchers
Spain’s wealthy BEING rich in Spain today isn’t as straightforward as it seems. It’s not just about earnings - lifestyle, spending and aspirations all matter. According to L’Observatoire des Inégalités, in 2024, you need a gross monthly income of at least €3,673 to be officially considered wealthy in Spain. That’s nearly three times the minimum wage, currently €1,134 per month. However, many earning that amount don’t feel rich, as rising living costs and growing family needs stretch finances. To enter Spain’s top 1 per cent, you would need a net worth of around €2.3 million. Spain’s middle class in 2024 includes those earning between €1,343 and €3,581 monthly. Above €3,581 is upper class, but true ‘wealth’ is marked at €3,673 or more. Even with salaries increasing, comfort doesn’t always mean luxury, especially with the cost of living skyrocketing. Spaniards now spend about 47 per cent of their salary on rent, well above the 30 per cent experts recommend. In cities like Madrid or Barcelona, housing costs are even steeper. Family size also shapes perceptions of wealth. A couple with two young children would need around €7,713 gross per month to be considered rich. In today’s Spain, true financial freedom remains out of reach for most.
On several occasions, Air Europa has suffered cyberattacks in which user data was stolen.
HAVE you received an email informing you about Air Europa flight vouchers in cryptocurrency? Many users, customers of the airline, have experienced the same thing: Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) warns that this is another attempted fraud. On several occasions, Air Europa has suffered cyberattacks in which user data was stolen. These are likely the same data that cybercriminals are now using to ‘hook’ users. How? With a tempting message that lands in your email, impersonating the airline and addressing you by name, offering you the chance to acquire supposed ‘flight vouchers’ with cryptocurrency. A sophisticated identity theft scam • The email pretends to come from Air Europa and offers to purchase flight vouchers using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Tether, with substantial discounts. • From there, it redirects to another website, which is not the real one. • As reported, Air Europa has alerted that this is a scam and that its identity has been impersonated. The company has confirmed that it has not launched any such campaign and does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment method. Questions about your rights? Call the OCU: 900 813 443.
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NEWS
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Lake Como show Credit: Creative Lab / Shutterstock.com
Catalonia’s daily tax
With this dazzling display on Italian soil, Chanel reaffirmed its identity.
CHANEL brought Italian splendour to its latest Cruise collection at Villa d’Este on Lake Como, celebrating escape, indulgence and timeless glamour. Set among classical architecture and wisteria-draped gardens, the show evoked Slim Aarons’ jet-set style with parasol-yellow capri trousers, lilac tweed suits and shimmering gold lamé cover-ups. Although Matthieu Blazy was recently appointed creative director, the in-house team created the collection. Still, his influence was felt in the balance of heritage and modernity. Models carried oversized totes and wore Como silk scarves as sandal ties a nod to Chanel’s deepening ties with Italian craftsmanship. The brand recently acquired a 35 per cent stake in Mantero, its silk su-
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pplier for over 50 years. President Bruno Pavlovsky described the setting as ‘cinematic’, likening it to White Lotus meets La Dolce Vita. Among the 900 guests were Keira Knightley and Sofia Coppola, who represented the brand and created a short film on reinvention. As holiday wardrobes now outsell workwear, the show catered to a modern traveller’s need for elegance - and Instagram appeal. Nearly every look featured sunglasses. Despite Blazy’s quiet start, Chanel sees him shaping its future and urges patience. Meanwhile, the house stays committed to European production and global pricing harmony, reaffirming its identity: rooted in tradition, evolving with care, and always ready for a grand holiday.
CATALONIA has delayed its proposed €15 daily tourist tax hike from May to January 2026, aiming to deal with overtourism while minimising economic impacts. The regional government, without a parliamentary majority, shifted from a decree to a bill after Esquerra Republicana (ERC) demands. The current tax, ranging from €6 to €11, targets hotel guests and cruise passengers, with Barcelona charging the highest rates. The proposal is to increase it to €15. The postponement follows protests over overtourism, blamed for inflating housing costs. Barcelona’s room rates rose 10 per cent in the year to March 2025, well over Spain’s 3 per cent average. At least 25 per cent of tax revenue will fund public housing to halt
Credit: Stefano Politi Markovina - Shutterstock
Barcelona, tourist magnet.
soaring rents. ERC’s plan proposes seasonal rates outside Barcelona: five-star hotels will pay €6 nightly year-round in the city, while elsewhere, rates vary from €4 in peak season (April-September) to €2 in winter. Tourist apartments will face taxes equal to five-star hotels, at €6 in Barcelona. Catalonia saw a 10 per cent increase in tourist arrivals in early 2025, trailing Madrid’s 13 per
cent, indicating measures like hotel licence restrictions may be curbing overtourism. Barcelona’s tourism apartment association, Apartur, warns the hike could deter budget-conscious visitors. The tax generated €96 million in 2024, with studies showing no significant impact on tourist demand. The delay aims to balance resident concerns with Catalonia’s status as Spain’s top tourist destination.
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NEWS
ITALY
EUROPRESS
Pope’s tribute
THE final stage of this year’s Giro d’Italia will feature a symbolic start from Vatican City in Rome to honour the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. The race will begin with a neutralised segment passing through the Vatican before continuing with eight laps of a 9.5 km circuit in Rome.
Bakery blaze
A FIRE at the historic Pasticceria Cinque Lune in Rome caused significant damage to the establishment located near the Italian Senate. The owner, Claudio Ansuini, was safely evacuated and taken to the hospital for precautionary checks. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety in Rome’s historic buildings.
PORTUGAL Woman rescued
A 79-YEAR-OLD Italian woman reported missing from her home in Monchique was found alive on the morning of April 28. She had spent the night outdoors following a widespread power outage that affected parts of Portugal. The woman was located with only minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for precautionary checks.
Biodiversity lost
ENVIRONMENTALISTS in Portugal have raised concerns over the rapid expansion of olive tree plantations in the Alentejo region. The plantations are replacing diverse ecosystems, leading to a loss of biodiversity, threatening local wildlife habitats and depleting water resources. Environmental groups are calling for stricter regulations.
NORWAY
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NETHERLANDS Masterpiece scratched
A CHILD has caused damage to Mark Rothko’s Grey, Orange on Maroon, No. 8, valued at €50 million, at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam. The incident occurred during an unsupervised moment, resulting in visible scratches on the unvarnished paint. The museum is consulting with experts to determine restoration options.
Baked justice
A WOMAN in Sweden has been sentenced to six weeks in prison for selling homemade buns and sandwiches in Facebook groups for several years. Despite repeated warnings and fines, she continued her unregistered business without an approved kitchen. Her lawyer stated that she is devastated and does not understand why her actions warrant a prison sentence.
Support gaps
A RECENT survey by the Danish Health Authority reveals that one in four managers lacks sufficient knowledge to support employees with mental health issues. In response, the Authority has released a new guide aimed at helping managers better assist staff experiencing mental health challenges.
IRELAND
Crisis concerns
FOLLOWING power outages in Spain and Portugal, Denmark’s emergency services have issued warnings about the country’s preparedness for similar events. Officials acknowledge that the country may not be fully equipped to handle extended power disruptions. The Danish Emergency Management Agency is reviewing current plans to enhance resilience against power outages.
Child protection
Credit: Shutterstock / YASEMIN OZDEMIR
The Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam.
DENMARK
SWEDEN
GERMANY Urban overkill
IN Berlin, five zebra crossings were installed over just 80 metres on a quiet street, drawing public criticism and media attention. The planning decision, aimed at improving pedestrian safety, has been labelled excessive and confusing, prompting debate over the necessity and logic behind such measures.
Admin down
A CYBERATTACK on April 25 disrupted Berlin’s official websites, affecting access to district, Senate, and court portals. By the evening of April 28, only limited services had resumed. The outage significantly impacted administrative functions, including appointment bookings for local government services.
FRANCE
SWEDEN will lead a new Europol task force, GRIMM, to combat the recruitment of children by criminal gangs. These gangs use social media and encrypted platforms to target minors, offering money for illegal activities like drug trafficking. The task force includes several European countries and aims to work with tech companies.
FINLAND TikTok tresspass
FINNISH police have observed a rise in break-ins at abandoned buildings influenced by the TikTok trend known as ‘urbex’. This trend encourages individuals to explore and document disused sites. Authorities warn that such actions are illegal and pose safety risks, urging parents to discuss the dangers of these activities with their children.
Historic heat
A STUDY reveals that the summer of 2024 in Finnish Lapland was the warmest in over 2,000 years, with average temperatures reaching 15.9°C. This surpassed the previous record set in 1937. The extreme heat, contributing to forest fires, was tracked using pine tree ring data, emphasising the growing impact of climate change.
BELGIUM
Sugar-free ads
Detained resident
No tolerance
Healthy lunches
Polar bear pursuit
Electric disruption
Suspects captured
Belgian bites
NORWAY has implemented a ban on marketing unhealthy foods, such as candy, soft drinks, ice cream, and energy drinks, to children under 18. This regulation prohibits advertising in cinemas, competitions, and the distribution of samples targeting young audiences. Violators may face fines and be required to withdraw marketing materials.
A DRAMATIC video from Pyramiden, Norway, shows a man narrowly escaping a charging polar bear. Captured during a ski expedition, the footage reveals the man attempting to deter the bear by firing a warning shot. When the bear continued its advance, he dropped his rifle and fled on a nearby snowmobile, narrowly evading the predator.
A 54-YEAR-OLD Irish woman and long-time US resident, was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) upon returning from Ireland where she had visited her ailing father. Despite holding a valid green card and believing her decades-old drug possession convictions had been expunged, the woman was arrested and is currently being held at an ICE facility.
LAST week a major power outage affected more than 20,000 homes and businesses in Ireland, with Dublin’s Finglas area being the hardest hit. Other areas, including parts of Cavan, Leitrim, and Galway, also experienced disruptions. ESB Networks attributed the outage to a significant fault and restored electricity by late evening of the same day.
PRESIDENT MACRON condemned the recent murder of a Muslim man in a French mosque, emphasising that “France is no place for racism and hate.” He reiterated the country’s commitment to upholding religious freedom and combating rising anti-Muslim sentiment, highlighting the importance of unity in the face of such violence.
A SERIES of coordinated attacks on French prisons in April has led to the arrest of 25 individuals. Investigations point to the criminal group DZ Mafia, with some suspects apprehended directly from their cells. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin condemned the violence and pledged support for prison staff.
THE Flemish government has approved an annual budget of €70 million to support healthy meals in kindergartens and primary schools, equating to approximately €170 per child. Participation is voluntary, allowing schools to choose how to use the funds. The initiative aims to ensure all children have access to nutritious food.
BRUSSELS has inaugurated a new Frietmuseum near the Grand Place, celebrating Belgium’s iconic fries. The museum offers an interactive journey tracing the potato’s path from Peru to its Belgian transformation. Founder Eddy Van Belle anticipates 150,000 visitors annually.
NEWS/FEATURE
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Credit: Samsung
Designed by AI
Samsung Galaxy S25 creating a recipe. SAMSUNG is bringing something unique to Lisbon this May: a pop-up restaurant where Artificial Intelligence helps create your meal. The temporary restaurant, Sem Igual, is open for two days, on May 8 and 9, in the Belém area. What makes it special? You get to choose your ingredients, and Samsung’s Galaxy AI does the rest. Just take photos of your chosen ingredients using a Galaxy S25 phone provided at the table. The AI will then suggest a recipe, tailored to your taste, which is cooked
and served by Chef João Dourado and his team. You’ll need to pick a protein (beef, tofu or salmon), a carbohydrate, three vegetables and a sauce. The idea is to show how Galaxy AI can be used in everyday life, even in the kitchen. Samsung says the goal is to make AI feel helpful, fun and easy to understand. The Galaxy AI doesn’t just help with recipes, it can also translate languages, plan trips, and edit photos. After the Lisbon stop, the same pop-up will head to Porto on May 16 and 17.
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
My Lawyer in Spain opens new office in Mojacar MY LAWYER IN SPAIN has expanded again - this time bringing its trusted legal services to Mojacar. The new office, based at Urbanización Multicentro, Local 42, Mojacar Playa, Almeria, is the firm’s sixth in Spain, alongside seven associated offices across the country. Heading up the Mojacar office is Joaquín Cutillas, a rising legal talent originally from Tarragona. Joaquín is in the final year of his Law degree at Universitat Oberta de Catalunya and plans to pursue a Master’s in Law next. His early career saw him working as a sports editor at La Opinión de Murcia before switching to law, gaining hands-on experience with the UK’s Mi-
nistry of Justice while living in Bristol. Now back in Spain, Joaquín brings a valuable mix of legal expertise and international experience to serve both Spanish and expat clients in the Almeria area. Senior Partner Alex Radford said: “We’re excited to bring our services to Mojacar and strengthen our presence in Almeria. Joaquín is a fantastic fit for our team, combining legal knowhow with life experience to support the community with personal, professional advice.” On June 6, My Lawyer in Spain are inviting clients, old and new,
and local businesses to come and enjoy the grand opening of their new office. From 5.30pm to 7.30pm you can join them for a celebratory drink and to meet the team. My Lawyer in Spain offers support with everything from buying property and residency applications to business law, wills and tax matters.
For appointments and more details, visit https://www.mylawyerinspain.com/about-us/our-offices/mojacar/
FEATURE/NEWS
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Keeping an open mind Italian Brainrot LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT CONSPIRACY theorists are everywhere, I have over the years, researched and investigated large numbers of these theories; from Queen Elizabeth I being a man, Area 51, the assassination of Kennedy, the death of Princess Diana and the Twin Tower attack etc. One thing I endeavoured to do is to always retain an open mind. This can give you a clear advantage over these theorists - it is the one asset they most definitely do not possess! Once a CT has its teeth into something, irrespective of any proof to the contrary, they are virtually impossible to shake off. With this in mind I thought I would delve a little further into the psyche of the compulsive theorists and what makes them actually tick. According to one school of psychiatry the paranoia that drives individuals to constantly scan the world for dangers and imagines the worst from others, is a throwback to Neanderthal times. To mitigate threats from other tribes,
these ancient humans needed to be suspicious of everything and everyone, merely to survive. The doctors also reached the conclusion that many theorists were people who retained manipulative unusual patterns of thought, practised Machiavellianism, were insecure, lonely or stressed, which made them more inclined to believe in conspiracy’s and the supernatural. These suspicious people are of course not always in the wrong. Although some of their theories, ie that the earth is flat or the Moon landing didn’t take place - are laughable; there have been a number of instances where they were proven to be correct. That the FBI was spying on John Lennon (True). Project Sunshine, where the US government was accused of stealing dead bodies to test for radiation after a nuclear explosion. (True). That as far back as 1950 tobacco companies were fully aware smoking was lethal and could cause cancer. (True). That you can be spied on through your laptop camera. (True – and worrying!) On the other hand some of their theories can be highly dangerous.
Those who believed the Covid pandemic didn’t exist could, if they were in charge, have been responsible for the deaths of millions. In 2016 the personal mail of John, Hillary Clinton’s campaign manager was hacked. He was found to have ordered large numbers of pizzas. The conspiracy theorists decided that these orders were a code for a child sex ring run by the members of the diplomatic party. The shop who supplied the pizzas was subsequently attacked by a man with a semi-automatic rifle! It was a miracle no one was killed. It ultimately transpired that Podesta really liked pizzas! All I can say to the conspiracy theorists is keep believing what your heart and mind tells you. But please don’t patronise and pour scorn on others who hold a different point of view. What about turning your efforts to the biggest conspiracy theory of all; that we are merely figments of our own imagination? Now that is one I would truly like your views on. 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.
YOU’RE scrolling through TikTok when a bizarre monster with a made-up Italian name pops up, yelling nonsense and maybe dancing. Congratulations - you’ve discovered Italian TikTok trend. Brainrot, a viral trend that’s as ridiculous as it is addictive. Brainrot is internet slang for random, overstimulating content that feels like it melts your brain. Add an Italian twist, strange AI-generated monsters like Tung Tung Tung Sahur, and gibberish soundtracks, and you’ve got Italian Brainrot. What began as harmless fun has grown into a full-blown TikTok subculture, complete with backstories, fake documentaries and a loyal fandom. But not everyone is laughing. Some mental health experts warn that constant exposure to loud, chaotic videos could shrink attention spans, especially in kids and teens. Clinical psychologist Carlos Hidalgo says overstimulating content can make it harder to focus or think clearly. “It’s not just mindless entertainment anymore,” he explains. “It starts to change how we process information.” The solution? Balance. No one’s saying you need to quit TikTok, but it’s smart to take breaks and mix it up with slower activities like reading, walking, or listening to a podcast
Credit : Worawee Meepian, Shutterstock
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fest 2025 Credit: ARCH
ARCH
Torero practising being a cowboy’s horse. ARCH, the Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses is holding its annual Spring Fest on Sunday, May 18, and this year the event will have a Western theme. Activities will include an enthralling demonstration from Local Police dogs and their handlers, the popular artisan market with a wide variety of stalls, acti-
vities and games (for children and adults), live music, and lots of food and drink. In addition, there will be the fantastic ARCH raffle with great prizes for the lucky winners. So, save the date, Sunday, May 18, venue the ARCH Rescue Centre, Vina Borrego, between Alhaurin el Grande and
Coin, open from 10am until 4pm. The horses are looking forward to the attention, golden boy Torero is already practising being a cowboy’s horse. For more information follow ARCH on Facebook, Centro Andalusí de Rescate de Caballos or go to their website hor serescuespain.org.
AMERICAN singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has been one of the most influential artists in contemporary music since she was named the best new artist by the Country Music Association in 2007. If you were not fortunate enough to see the Eras show or did see it but can’t get enough of TayTay, Emma Luisa brings you Enchanted - a magical tribute to the biggest pop star of our generation - Taylor Swift. On Friday, May 23, the Salón Varietiés Theatre, Fuengirola, be whisked on a captivating journey through Taylor’s biggest hits, from old fan favourites like ‘Love Story’ and ‘22’ through to classic sing-a-longs like ‘Shake It Off’ and ‘Blank Space’ and not forgetting her more recent hits such as ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Lover’. Emma Luisa is joined by the fabulous dancers Yasmin and Miranda. (Choreography by Lauren Taylor). Emma has been a regular performer at the Salón since she was five years old, performing in many pantomimes and musicals. She most recently played Dorothy
Credit. Joanne.
Emma Luisa is Taylor Swift
Emma Louisa, Yasmin and Miranda ready for the Salón. in The Wizard of Oz and the princess in the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. She has also performed many times at the theatre with her dad, Ricky Lavazza. But now she is taking the stage herself with this superb tribute. The show also features the Girly Pop Party, with songs from Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappelle Roan, Ariana Grande and more. Tickets are €12, online at salonvarietes.com or by calling 952 474 542.
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1st Comic-Con in Malaga POP culture fans on the Costa del Sol have reason to celebrate. For the first time ever, the world-famous San Diego Comic-Con is coming to Europe, and it’s landing right here in Malaga. The event will take place from September 25 to 28 at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Málaga (FYCMA). More than 60,000 fans are expected to attend across the four days. This is the first official Comic-Con licensed outside of the United States. Visitors can expect more than 300 hours of excluA Comic-Con icon. sive programming, including panels, film prepre-registration online at sandiego views, cosplay competitions, gaming, comicconmalaga.com. Tickets go on and special appearances from big na- sale on May 15, but only those who mes in the industry. pre-register before May 14 will receiThe convention will feature much-lo- ve the Registration ID needed to buy ved universes like Marvel and DC, passes. All tickets will be personal and along with anime, fantasy, sci-fi, and non-transferable. more. Whether you’re a lifelong coPrices are still to be confirmed. mic book fan or just curious about the If you live in southern Spain and love hype, this event promises something pop culture, this is one event you won’t for everyone. want to miss. Make sure to pre-regisTo attend, fans must complete a ter and mark your calendar now.
Credit: San Diego Comic-Con Malaga
Credit: EWN
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Chef Francisco Roque of El Jinete - alive and kicking.
Chef’s secret to life FRANCISCO ROQUE, the 69-year-old chef and restaurateur, defies retirement and cancer diagnoses through his passion for cooking. Twice given months to live, first with a tumour, then lymphoma, he beat both without treatment, astonishing doctors. Now cancer-free, Roque credits his survival to loving his work at El Jinete, his Mijas Costa restaurant for the last 12 years. Previously, he ran Fuengirola’s Aroma for 23 years and was head chef at Shakespeare, the town’s largest restaurant at the time. Roque works long kitchen hours, finding joy in cooking, despite his wife Karen urging him to retire. “I’m passionate
about cooking. When I stop working, I feel ill,” he says. His positive mindset and refusal to slow down enabled his recovery. When doctors offered minimal treatment, he declined, and the lymphoma vanished by itself. “The secret is the passion to live,” Roque explains. “Work gives me life.” His energy and dedication pack out El Jinete nightly, where customers tip generously, drawn by the passion in his dishes. The menu features charcoal-grilled meats like Black Angus, suckling pig confit, chateaubriand, and dry-aged beef, at prices more affordable than coastal competitors. Visit El Jinete at Calle de La Cala Golf Km 4.5, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 119 170
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Darkness into Light Credit: Biddy Mulligans. ON Saturday, May 10, the Darkness into Light walk for mental health charity AFESOL will take place before sunrise at three Costa del Sol locations: La Cala de Mijas (opposite Biddy Mulligans), Estepona, and Benalmadena. For the Mijas walk, participants gather at Biddy Mulligans from 6am, walking along the boardwalk past El Oceano and back to La La Cala de Mijas walkers in 2024. Cala to witness the sunParticipants can register at dark rise. Michael O’Halloran launched the nessintolight.ie, selecting their prefirst walk in Estepona in 2016; this ferred Costa del Sol location. Bimarks the fifth year in La Cala. Biddy ddy’s encourages wearing t-shirts Mulligans is proud to support this from past walks, with limited availacause, raising awareness for Pieta bility on-site for early arrivals. After the walk, everyone will be House and AFESOL, which aid those affected by mental health struggles, gathering for breakfast at Biddy Musuicide bereavement, self-harm, or lligans, the famed Irish pub at Blvd. suicidal thoughts. The walk’s sym- de la Cala, La Cala de Mijas. The event welcomes new and rebolism - moving from darkness to light - unites the community, delive- turning participants to support this vital cause. ring a powerful message of hope.
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A life on Costa del Sol Credit: Paul Hickling
Paul Hickling and The Roman Oasis.
PAUL HICKLING from The Roman Oasis restaurant in Sabinillas has been in touch with Euro Weekly News to reflect on his life on the Costa del Sol. “Where did the time go? I’m 80 next week! Over half my lifetime building and improving the place. Now my lovely wife Kaat is running it as I potter around doing maintenance while enjoying watching the people having fun on the 18-hole Crazy Golf course I built four years ago. You don’t need to book for the challenging course; just turn up. We supply everything you’ll need except luck! “Oh yes, at the end of the bar I see Keith Floyd having a slurp with South London gangster Charlie Richardson and Bob Hos-
kins. Frank Carson’s telling a naughty joke to Freddy Star, and Cilla Black’s having a lorra lorra laughs! Helen Shapiro is singing to Anni-Frid of ABBA (who had her daughter’s wedding here). And, oh dear… Robert Carlisle is giving everybody ‘The Full Monty’! Every picture and relic above the bar tells a story,” he recollects. So many famous faces from the history of the Costa del Sol; the Roman Oasis is still going strong in Sabinillas. Open every day from 12pm (except Wednesdays) for a fun afternoon at crazy golf, a game of pool and a fun day out for families, or a team-building exercise for your business. Check out reservations on romanoa sis.com or call 711 068 700.
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is always Tibbi Time at La Scala! Friday May 2 was no ordinary night at La Scala - it was a full-on party party! The ever-gracious host, Tibbi Aquila, pulled out all the stops to celebrate the birthday of his newly engaged fiancée, the radiant Michelle Mellet. And true to form, Team La Scala did not disappoint. From the moment guests arrived, the vibe was electric. The venue’s beloved Friday night entertainers, Masquerade, set the tone instantly - feet tapping, glasses clinking, and everyone ready to dance, even before the first course was served. And oh, the food! As expected from any of Tibbi’s four esteemed restaurants along the coast, the dishes were nothing short of sensational. Guests were treated to an Italian feast fit for royalty: aged cheeses paired with cured salamis, melt-inyour-mouth ribs, rustic pâté, and perfectly al dente pasta - all before the main event. The main courses featured the finest selection of
expertly cooked meats and vibrant out-of-season vegetables. A true banquet, executed with flair. Michelle, resplendent in her signature frills, stunned in a bold red ensemble - a vision worthy of the occasion. As ever, Tibbi proved himself to be the most romantic man on the coast, creating an unforgettable birthday celebration for the woman he adores. But what makes Tibbi truly special isn’t just his impeccable taste or grand gestures it’s his unwavering commitment to making everyone feel like royalty. Whether dining for two or throwing a celebration for 200, every detail is treated with care. No budget is too big or too small, no effort spared. When you party at La Scala, you’re not just attending an event but making a memory. So if you have a special occasion on the horizon - birthday, anniversary, engagement, or even a wedding - La Scala is the place. Because when it’s party time, it’s most definitely Tibbi time.
- Life is a combination of magic and pasta. -
Federico Fellini
And nowhere is that more true than at La Scala, where memories are made, hearts are complete, and the magic never stops.
| Bookings: +34 952 569 362 | lascalamarbella.com |
SOCIALSCENE II euroweeklynews.com COSTA
FOOD TOURS
10 Tempting Andalucian Tapas
WE all know that Spain has massive regionality when it comes to food, but tapas originated in Andalucia, attributed to their birthplace in Sevilla. And although this authentic Spanish food culture has now spread worldwide, there are still many tapas that are truly Andalucian. Outside of the ubiquitous calamari, tortilla and albondigas, here’s 10 more to get you inspired: ESPINACAS CON GARBANZOS (Spinach with Chickpeas) - A typical Moorish inspired dish from Sevilla, loved and devoured by locals. It’s a surprisingly simple recipe; mostly spinach and chickpeas spiced with cumin and garlic. Despite its simplicity, this tapa tastes way better than the sum of its parts. RABO DE TORO (Braised Oxtail) - Originating in Cordoba, and traditionally made after bullfights, this meltin-your-mouth meat is slow braised with a rich combination of red wine, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various aromatic spices resulting in a delicious thick brown gravy. MOJAMA (Cured and Dried Tuna Loin) Dating back to Phoenician times, this is salt cured tuna loin (blue fin tuna that migrate
through the straits of Gibraltar) that is then laid out in the sun to mature and served very thinly sliced with almonds and olive oil. ENSALADA RUSA or ENSALADILLA in Andalucia (Russian Salad) Featured on almost any menu, it’s a cold salad made from boiled potatoes mixed with shrimps, crab, tuna, some vegetables and hard-boiled eggs, and then smothered in home-made mayonnaise. TORTILLITAS DE CAMARONES (Shrimp Fritters) - Made of whole tiny whole shrimps, chickpea and wheat flour, water, spring onion, parsley, before being deep fried in olive oil. Crunchy, tasty and one of the most delicious savoury bites. HABAS CON JAMON (Broad Beans with Ham) Even if you don’t love beans, this is a must try. Fresh broad beans, Serrano ham, onion, garlic, white wine, pancetta and extra olive oil make this dish surprisingly tasty. GAZPACHO (Cold Garlic and Vegetable Soup) - Made with raw tomatoes (plenty), green peppers, cucumber, rustic bread, garlic, sherry vinegar, extra virgin olive oil and water. Perfect for summer days. FLAMENQUIN (Deep Fried Pork, Ham and Cheese Rolls) - A speciality from Cordoba, this roll of pork loin, serrano ham and cheese coated is coated in breadcrumbs and then deep fried. The flavours together are super tasty! BERENJENAS FRITAS CON MIEL (Fried Aubergines with Cane Honey) - Sounds strange but this typical Malaga dish is incredibly delicious. Sliced aubergines lightly coated in flour, fried and drizzled in sugar cane honey. CARACOLES (Snails) - A delicacy in southern Spain and definitely one of the musttries. Served in a flavourful sauce, including garlic, parsley, black pepper, paprika and cumin. It’s delicious to finish the sauce by dipping in bread. So, there you are, go out and treat those tastebuds !!
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Vintage bikes
Credit: Coin Town Hall
GET ready for a day of engines, history, and community fun in Coin. On Saturday May 10, the 12th Quedada de Motos Clasicas (12th Classic Motorbike Meetup) will take place at the Classic motorbikes in Parque Periurbano. This popular event brings together bike Coin. lovers from across the Costa del Sol and beyond. Whether you own a vintage bike, love taking photos of them, or enjoy a great day out, this event is for you. The show is free to attend and welcomes all ages. Expect to see many classic motorbikes, many lovingly restored and proudly displayed by their owners. The day usually includes a group ride through the streets of Coin, giving everyone a chance to hear those engines in action. Food and drink stands, music, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe will be available. It’s a great chance to connect with fellow motorbike enthusiasts, meet locals, and enjoy the Andalucian sun. Parking is available nearby, and the venue is easily accessible by car from Marbella, Fuengirola, and other parts of the Costa del Sol.
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Chocolate treats SIMPLY THRIVING group met at the Happiness Lab in Mijas Pueblo on Wednesday, May 7, to put their creativity into making some delicious chocolate treats. Around 30 made it to the event where they learnt the process of making the most mouth-watering, natural chocolate bites and then decorating them with natural ingredients. Everyone huddled round the centre table inside the popular chocolate factory run by Eli and Jason, masters in the happiness business. Pistachios, peanuts, almonds, and papaya, and coconut – everyone chose their own ingredients to add from a selection of around 30. Afterwards all the gang waited out on the terrace for the results of their chocolate treats to set, having one of the
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Simply Thriving group making chocolate bliss at Happiness Lab.
best coffees anyone can find in Mijas Pueblo in the glorious sunshine. Val Williams formed Simply Thriving after the pandemic, with the idea of keeping the community together with fun and friendship because no one on the Costa del Sol need be alone. Among the group was actress and singer Alexandra Avery, who decided to celebrate her
birthday with the Simply Thriving group. Afterwards it was off to La Raja restaurant in the heart of the twisting and turning Pueblo Blanco streets for a slap-up lunch together. The Happiness Lab chocolate factory is in the Plaza de la Constitution in the centre of Mijas Pueblo, and the Simply Thriving group can be found on Facebook.
OPEN 11.00 - 01.00 7 DAYS A WEEK
DELICIOUS GASTROPUB
FOOD SERVED ALL DAY
Julián Maeso Organ Trio ON Thursday, May 8, the jazzy Hammond sound of Julián Maeso Organ Trio will be at Louie Louie Live in Estepona, ready to deliver a soulful performance rooted in a rich musical legacy. The well-seasoned keyboardist, Julián Maeso, known for his wizardry on the piano and organ, with his trio, promises an evening of slick jazz, blues, funk, and poprock fusion. Maeso is famed for his deep passion for music, perfected from a young age through a fascination for the ivories. His dexterity on a keyboard as well as across genres and meticulous approach to mixing up traditional and modern techniques have earned him a reputation as a musical craftsman. The Estepona concert is a chance to experience Maeso’s artistry live, as he fuses soulful melodies with innovative sounds in a night of pure cool. His sound, crafted to transcend the superficial, invites listeners on a shared journey of connection. Jazz fans and newcomers are encouraged to join this community of cool, celebrating music with heart at Louie Louie. The gig begins at 10pm, with doors opening at 9.30pm. Tickets are priced at €13 in advance. Louie Louie is facing Estepona harbour. Credit: JM
AMAZING OFFERS Reservations: (+34) 620 226 911 - Calle Olleria 20, Fuengirola Two streets behind El Puerto Hotel, 30 seconds from Fish Alley Large secure private terrace
Julián Maeso, keyboard wizard.
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An Inspector Calls
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Seasonal flavour at La Escalera de Balthazar Credit: La Escalera De Balthazar, Facebook
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Jumbo prawns grilled over charcoal and glazed with pastis. INTERNATIONAL THEATRE STUDIO in Marbella, the longest established English-speaking theatre group on the Costa del Sol, presents the classic thriller ‘An Inspector Calls’ by JB Priestley. An Inspector Calls by J B Priestley, is a play that revolves around the apparent suicide of a young woman called Eva Smith. In the play, the unsuspecting Birling family are visited by the mysterious Inspector Goole. He arrives just as they are celebrating the engagement of Sheila Birling to Gerald Croft. Directed by Peter Brooks and produced by Andrea Stevens the play boasts a superb cast with PJ Lopez as Eric Birling, Laurie Passman as Mr Arthur Bir-
ling, Sheila Mellor as Mrs Sybil Birling and Samantha Weaver as Sheila Birling. This is the Birling Family. They all know what they did, but do you? Watch the compelling and haunting thriller and you’ll find out. The play also stars Martin Curd as Gerald Croft and Paul Baker as Inspector Goole. There will be performances on Friday, May 9, Saturday 10, and Sunday 11 at the Hotel Paraíso at 7.30pm each night. Tickets are available online at the ITS website internationaltheatrestudio.org now and cost €19.50 for ITS members and €22 for non-members. Hotel Paraíso in Ctra. de Cadiz, km. 167, Avda. de la Gardenia, Estepona.
TUCKED away on Calle del Almendro in the centre of Benahavis village, La Escalera de Balthazar is a cosy and elegant restaurant that offers some of the best food on the Costa del Sol. Known for its fresh seasonal produce and top-quality meat and seafood, this local gem delivers a Mediterranean dining experience full of flavour. Every dish at La Escalera de Balthazar is cooked with care over an olive wood charcoal grill. The result is a smoky and rich taste that brings out the
best in every cut of meat and fillet of fish. Every bite is full of depth and flavour, from grilled prawns and Burgundian snails to Iberian pork ribs marinated in cider. The lamb shoulder, slow-cooked with lemon and rosemary, is a must-try. The menu changes with the seasons to reflect what is fresh and in stock from local farmers and fishermen. Specials vary daily, and the wine list pairs well with the food. There is also a good selection of classic desserts, including crème brûlée and
chocolate mousse. Whether you are planning a quiet dinner for two or a relaxed evening with friends, the atmosphere is welcoming and the service is excellent. With a charming rooftop terrace and fair prices for the quality served, La Escalera de Balthazar is one to add to your list next time you are in Benahavis. La Escalera de Balthazar Calle del Almendro 4, Benahavis Telephone: 951 50 60 48 www.laescalerade balthazar.com
FINANCE THE UK leads Europe in corporate-startup collaboration, especially in AI, with 81 per cent of British firms seeing startups as key to their AI strategies. Partnerships succeed more in the UK than elsewhere, according to the 2025 Open Innovation Report by Sopra Steria Next and Insead.
Golden block
THE EU Court ruled Malta’s golden passport scheme illegal, stating citizenship can’t be sold. It breaches EU law by treating nationality as a commercial transaction. Malta must dismantle the programme or risk penalties for violating its obligations as an EU member state.
Profit leap
LINEA DIRECTA Insurers reported a net profit of €20.8 million in the first quarter of 2025, more than doubling last year’s result with a 106.1 per cent increase. This strong performance was fuelled by faster revenue growth, a rising number of customers, and better insurance margins.
Coke confidence
COCA-COLA beat first-quarter earnings expectations and said tariffs will likely be ‘manageable’. Despite a 25 per cent aluminium tariff affecting beverage makers, Coke remains optimistic, unlike PepsiCo, which cut its earnings outlook. CFO John Murphy noted tariffs could affect costs and consumer sentiment.
Helping hand
THE Bank of Spain’s Executive Committee has approved the granting of 150 grants of €1,000 to students from the areas affected by the DANA disaster on October 29 in Valencia. The grants are distributed equally between vocational training and university degree students registered in the affected municipalities.
STAT OF WEEK
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The number of Kuiper Network satellites was successfully launched by Amazon, deployed 600 kilometres above Earth. This marks Amazon’s entry into the low-orbit satellite market, rivalling Starlink.
Productive paradox
SPAIN’S unemployment has risen to its highest level in a year, reaching 11.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, yet workplace productivity and economic growth remain solid. Despite the jobless rate exceeding expectations and climbing from 10.6 per cent in the previous quarter, new research shows Spain leading Europe in workplace productivity. A study by Opinion Matters for Ricoh Europe, based on responses from 1,800 business decision-makers and 7,000 workers across Europe, found that 92 per cent of Spanish employees consider themselves productive, higher than any other country in the survey. Spain’s unproductivity rate stands at just 4 per cent, compared with 9 per cent in the UK and Ireland. Italy ranked second in productivity, followed by the Netherlands, France, Germany, the UK and Ireland. The report also revealed widesREPSOL and Telefónica are teaming up to expand their partnership and compete with major players like Iberdrola, Endesa, Naturgy, Netflix, and Max. They’ve launched a joint offer combining energy supply with premium entertainment from Movistar Plus. This move aims to boost revenue in a tough market by cross-selling: new customers signing up for Repsol’s Waylet electricity ‘Fixed Price TV’ plan get
Green gateway INDIA’S Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal’s recent visit to the Netherlands has paved the way for establishing a green and digital trade corridor between Indian ports and the Port of Rotterdam, aimed at supporting green hydrogen exports to Europe. During his visit, Barthwal met with Boudewijn Siemon, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam authority, to discuss the initiative. Rotterdam, being Europe’s largest and one of the most advanced ports globally, is seen as a key gateway for expanding India’s green energy exports to the European market.
Ninety-two per cent of Spanish employees consider themselves productive.
pread concerns across Europe about the impact of outdated technology. About 22 per cent of French and 27 per cent of German business leaders see ageing tech as a key barrier to productivity. Many workers agree: 40 per cent of those surveyed believe better document management tools would improve output, while 37 per cent want improved
communication systems. According to the National Statistics Institute, the number of unemployed rose by 193,700 to 2.8 million, while employment fell by 92,500 to 21.8 million. The working population rose to 24.6 million. Job losses were seen across several sectors including services, construction, industry, and agriculture.
Power play
Movistar Plus+ free for a year, worth €119.88. The promotion runs until March 13, 2026. This alliance helps Repsol diversify beyond energy, enhancing its home offerings. They’ve already introduced perks like fuel discounts (10 cents/litre) and 50 per cent credit for electric vehicle charging,
aiming to boost customer loyalty. Telefónica expands Movistar Plus+ reach through indirect deals, aiming for growth outside traditional telecom packages. This move attracts consumers interested in its diverse audiovisual content, including 80+ channels, movies, series, documen-
Price surge
Career climb
BANKINTER reported a profit of €270 million for the first quarter. This figure marks a 35 per cent increase, driven by strong business performance. Gross operating income rose by 11 per cent, supported by higher sales of high-value products. The bank is gaining market share in all areas and regions. Its loan book grew by 5 per cent, retail customer funds went up by 7 per cent, and off-balance sheet assets, such as mutual funds, pension and funds, jumped by 17 per cent.
LINKEDIN, the social network focused on careers and professional connections, has now released its latest ‘Top Companies’ list, naming Santander as one of the best places to grow a career. Santander has been recognised as a top employer in both Spain and Brazil. The list highlights companies that are committed to both supporting their staff and helping them progress. In Spain, Santander is the highest-ranked financial institution on the list and has climbed several spots compared to the previous year. Its Brazilian arm now also appears on the national ranking. On a global level, Santander continues to strengthen what it offers employees and promises real career development.
Image: Respsol / Facebook
AI alliance
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Repsol have already introduced perks.
taries, sports like LaLiga and Champions League, and BBC Earth documentaries.
Visa standoff
THE ongoing visa dispute between Turkey and the European Union (EU) has escalated. Some Turkish business leaders have condemned the new EU visa requirements as an ‘economic embargo and not a security measure’ and a breach of international trade law. Under the latest rules, EU countries are demanding that Turkish companies provide full three-month bank transaction records when applying for employee Schengen visas. This goes beyond personal payslips and bank statements, requiring detailed financial data from the businesses themselves. Many in Turkey’s business community argue this added burden is both unfair and damaging to trade and international cooperation.
Strong surge DESPITE recent geopolitical uncertainty, European airline group Lufthansa continues to see strong demand for flights. The group, which includes Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Swiss, and ITA Airways, reported a 10 per cent year-on-year rise in revenue to €8.1 billion for the first quarter of 2025. Lufthansa also noted an increase in passenger numbers and higher average fares on its transatlantic routes compared to the same period in 2024.
Fear factor MORE Cypriots now see the island as a good place to start a business, but fear of failure continues to stop many from taking the leap, according to the latest National Report on Entrepreneurship in Cyprus by the University of Cyprus. Some 60.5 per cent of respondents say they have the skills to start a business, which is well above the European average. Despite this, 53.3 per cent admit it is the fear of failure that is stopping them.
FINANCE
40 8 - 14 May 2025
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LONDON - FTSE 100
Closing Prices 5 May
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3I Group.....................................4.251,41............4.292,00......... 4.241,00......... 134,35K Admiral Group.............................3.238,0..............3.270,0........... 3.226,5........... 33,05K Airtel Africa................................. 169,60...............171,20............169,30.......... 325,18K Anglo American...........................2.128,5..............2.179,5........... 2.127,5.......... 401,64K Antofagasta................................1.695,00............1.767,50......... 1.694,00.......... 125,3K Ashtead Group............................4.050,0..............4.084,0........... 4.025,0........... 69,72K Associated British Foods.............2.030,0..............2.043,2........... 2.016,0........... 62,08K AstraZeneca...............................10.650,0............10.748,0......... 10.599,2......... 321,97K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 854,80...............856,60............850,20........... 83,42K Aviva........................................... 563,80...............566,20............561,20.......... 581,22K B&M European Value Retail SA... 340,86...............347,20............340,40.......... 281,82K BAE Systems..............................1.763,00............1.770,00......... 1.742,74......... 809,91K Barclays...................................... 296,99...............302,10............296,53............5,59M Barratt Redrow............................ 469,70...............472,00............468,50.......... 219,23K Beazley........................................ 892,50...............902,50............891,00.......... 127,02K Berkeley......................................4.228,0..............4.232,0........... 4.198,0........... 16,86K BP............................................... 351,00...............358,05............349,60............3,78M British American Tobacco...........3.252,0..............3.269,0........... 3.227,0.......... 590,94K BT Group.................................... 173,10...............174,50............172,65............1,19M Bunzl...........................................2.328,0..............2.342,0........... 2.316,0........... 61,06K Centrica....................................... 157,60...............158,80............156,00............2,44M Coca Cola HBC AG......................3.860,0..............3.868,0........... 3.798,0........... 76,31K Compass....................................2.545,00............2.548,00......... 2.517,00......... 289,86K ConvaTec Group......................... 262,00...............263,00............260,80.......... 112,88K Croda Intl....................................2.992,0..............3.050,0........... 2.976,0........... 17,51K DCC.............................................4.914,0..............4.956,0........... 4.876,0........... 14,87K Diageo.........................................2.104,0..............2.118,2........... 2.098,0.......... 181,56K Diploma.....................................4.010,00............4.038,00......... 3.972,00.......... 46,55K EasyJet........................................ 518,00...............521,80............510,40.......... 824,99K Entain.......................................... 664,40...............671,00............659,00.......... 175,95K Experian......................................3.778,0..............3.805,0........... 3.770,0.......... 153,51K F&C Invest.................................1.052,00............1.057,00......... 1.042,00.............35K Flutter Entertainment..................18.370,0............18.500,0......... 18.365,0........... 2,71K Frasers........................................ 666,50...............676,00............664,00........... 10,83K Fresnillo.....................................1.004,00............1.022,00......... 1.003,00........... 61,9K Glencore...................................... 248,05...............253,95............247,65............6,27M GSK plc......................................1.468,26............1.469,50......... 1.450,00......... 672,23K HALEON...................................... 401,42...............401,80............386,00............2,72M Halma..........................................2.776,0..............2.806,0........... 2.772,0........... 57,07K Hikma Pharma...........................2.012,00............2.014,00......... 1.969,00.......... 30,17K Hiscox........................................1.106,00............1.114,00......... 1.104,00............140K Howden Joinery.......................... 793,00...............802,00............789,50.......... 107,06K HSBC.......................................... 834,30...............840,00............832,30............3,46M IAG.............................................. 268,80...............269,34............264,40............2,14M IMI PLC......................................1.787,00............1.809,00......... 1.782,00.......... 27,58K Imperial Brands..........................3.086,00............3.093,00......... 3.063,00......... 173,83K Informa....................................... 759,40...............767,40............758,40.......... 199,09K InterContinental..........................8.298,0..............8.414,0........... 8.296,0........... 46,79K Intermediate Capital...................1.913,00............1.942,00......... 1.908,00.......... 19,98K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek........................................4.630,0..............4.654,0........... 4.618,0........... 19,89K J Sainsbury................................. 265,20...............269,20............265,00........... 737,5K JD Sports Fashion........................ 78,38.................80,32..............78,24........... 645,24K Kingfisher.................................... 286,60...............293,00............286,60.......... 189,23K Land Securities........................... 601,35...............607,50............600,50.......... 388,14K Legal & General.......................... 237,30...............239,09............236,50............1,87M Lloyds Banking............................ 70,86.................72,12..............70,66............14,61M London Stock Exchange.............11.490,0............11.530,0......... 11.265,0......... 107,14K Londonmetric Property............... 194,20...............196,00............193,00.......... 698,09K M&G........................................... 209,20...............209,50............207,80.......... 671,16K Marks & Spencer........................ 375,79...............384,15............374,87.......... 781,85K Melrose Industries...................... 446,78...............448,00............440,50.......... 286,38K Mondi.........................................1.151,00............1.158,50......... 1.139,50.......... 68,25K National Grid..............................1.067,50............1.070,50......... 1.060,00...........1,05M NatWest Group........................... 483,44...............497,10............481,60............4,48M Next...........................................12.390,0............12.410,0......... 12.275,0.......... 19,49K Pearson......................................1.143,00............1.162,50......... 1.127,50......... 433,73K Pershing Square........................3.606,00............3.634,00......... 3.580,00.......... 15,06K Persimmon.................................1.341,5..............1.343,0........... 1.328,0........... 233,5K Phoenix....................................... 599,50...............600,50............596,00.......... 360,84K Prudential.................................... 825,00...............825,00............812,60.......... 558,62K Reckitt Benckiser........................4.902,0..............4.906,0........... 4.850,0........... 77,67K Relx............................................4.111,60............4.130,19......... 4.071,00......... 302,83K Rentokil....................................... 355,40...............355,50............346,60.......... 344,93K Rightmove.................................. 746,60...............749,71............742,60.......... 235,28K Rio Tinto PLC..............................4.514,0..............4.556,5........... 4.505,5.......... 333,05K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 769,90...............778,00............763,80............1,94M Sage...........................................1.247,00............1.253,00......... 1.246,50.......... 77,87K Schroders.................................... 330,2.................337,6..............328,8........... 270,29K Scottish Mortgage....................... 925,81...............932,50............914,80.......... 187,41K Segro.......................................... 688,80...............693,00............683,40.......... 158,09K Severn Trent...............................2.758,0..............2.779,0........... 2.736,0........... 38,49K Shell............................................2.520,0..............2.543,5........... 2.481,5............1,91M Smith & Nephew........................1.086,50............1.091,50......... 1.077,50......... 216,37K Smiths Group.............................1.894,00............1.912,00......... 1.890,00.......... 31,58K Smurfit Westrock........................3.086,0..............3.118,0........... 3.053,0........... 31,16K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........5.920,0..............6.025,0........... 5.910,0............ 5,78K SSE............................................1.683,50............1.695,00......... 1.675,00......... 385,91K Standard Chartered....................1.097,00............1.131,00......... 1.075,50...........1,54M Taylor Wimpey............................ 120,21...............120,90............119,60............1,72M Tesco.......................................... 375,00...............377,50............372,80............3,94M Unilever.......................................4.764,0..............4.769,0........... 4.722,0.......... 297,48K Unite........................................... 871,00...............878,50............868,00.......... 510,51K United Utilities............................1.121,00............1.129,50......... 1.112,50......... 100,94K Vistry Group................................ 643,20...............654,80............642,60........... 93,47K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 73,860...............74,240............73,280............4,91M Weir Group................................2.296,00............2.311,31......... 2.288,00........... 44,6K Whitbread...................................2.698,0..............2.793,0........... 2.688,0.......... 128,81K WPP............................................ 583,00...............588,20............576,40.......... 231,78K
0.8512 1.1344
1.1746
0.9330 7.4623 11.785 10.941 Contact our team of currency experts
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DOW JONES
Closing Prices 5 May
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 137,90...............140,25............137,67............2,24M Amazon.com............................... 190,20...............191,81............187,50...........74,27M American Express....................... 268,54...............272,66............266,52............2,47M Amgen........................................ 283,78...............287,88............282,07............2,94M Apple........................................... 213,32...............214,56............208,90...........57,37M Boeing......................................... 182,89...............184,75............182,03............7,32M Caterpillar.................................... 313,96...............318,89............311,02............2,96M Chevron...................................... 136,26...............137,95............135,12............10,2M Cisco............................................ 58,12.................58,47..............57,68............16,42M Coca-Cola..................................... 71,29.................72,04..............71,23............18,03M Goldman Sachs........................... 553,83...............558,35............545,50............2,58M Home Depot................................ 358,30...............362,88............357,72............3,21M Honeywell................................... 210,74...............211,53............209,77............3,59M IBM............................................. 239,66...............242,37............237,95............4,24M J&J............................................. 154,46...............155,09............153,36............7,33M JPMorgan................................... 246,89...............248,45............242,17............8,69M McDonald’s................................. 313,64...............319,25............311,60............5,19M Merck&Co.................................... 83,26.................84,58..............83,17............10,04M Microsoft.................................... 425,40...............436,99............424,90...........58,94M Nike.............................................. 56,76.................57,21..............56,26............10,53M NVIDIA........................................ 111,61...............114,94............111,30..........236,12M P&G............................................ 159,98...............161,35............159,05............6,79M Salesforce Inc............................. 269,33...............274,60............269,00............5,21M Sherwin-Williams........................ 353,64...............357,00............351,71............1,45M The Travelers.............................. 261,45...............263,70............260,11............1,15M UnitedHealth............................... 400,68...............411,99............399,86............9,32M Verizon......................................... 43,30.................43,83..............43,26............18,92M Visa A.......................................... 342,45...............345,72............340,12............5,85M Walmart....................................... 97,41.................97,90..............96,59............13,17M Walt Disney.................................. 90,81.................91,61..............90,36.............7,79M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 5 May
Company
Change Net / %
Volume
Most Advanced Classover Holdings......................................... 366,09 %.......................262,87M Zoomcar Holdings........................................... 153,07 %.........................47,6M Healthcare Triangle.......................................... 71,97 %........................103,19M 180 Life Sciences............................................. 49,44 %..........................3,12M Society Pass.................................................... 42,86 %...........................6,7M BloomZ............................................................ 40,16 %.........................14,53M Hookipa Pharma.............................................. 38,95 %..........................1,29M Transcode Therapeutics................................... 38,71 %........................130,34M Above Food Ingredients................................... 36,42 %..........................3,61M TNL Mediagene................................................ 35,84 %.........................10,17M M - Million Dollars
Most Declined CDT Environmental Tech Investment Holdings.-71,67 %.........................5,65M Highest Performances Holdings.......................-48,91 %........................274,37K Urgent.ly..........................................................-39,87 %........................713,14K EHome Household Service Holdings................-29,71 %..........................9,97M Santech Holdings.............................................-28,09 %.........................45,17K Arvinas.............................................................-24,84 %.........................16,81M FST Ltd............................................................-24,24 %........................150,04K Pulmonx..........................................................-21,95 %..........................1,55M Phathom Pharma.............................................-21,68 %..........................5,53M INVO Fertility....................................................-21,34 %..........................1,93M Freight Tech.....................................................-20,56 %..........................1,41M M - Million Dollars
FINANCE
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Forex fame
CURRENCIES DIRECT has been shortlisted for the 2025 Business Moneyfacts Awards in two major categories: Best FX Provider and Best Service from an FX Provider. This recognition highlights the company’s strong dedication to offering foreign exchange solutions
Brussels block
BRUSSELS has indefinitely postponed the €25 billion fifth tranche of Spain’s Recovery Plan. EU sources state there is currently ‘no deadline’ to complete the required review needed to release the pending non-refundable transfers and loans from the Next Generation funds.
Valet parking vision ROBOTIC parking systems are becoming more common around the world. In Spain, they’ve been used for years in public car parks and even apartment buildings. At Lyon Airport in France, a robot named Stan, made by Stanley Robotics, has been parking cars for six years. Stan works on its own, lifting and moving cars to save space. It even parks them ba-
Image: Stanley Robotics
BUSINESS EXTRA
8 - 14 May 2025
A robot has been parking cars for years at Lyon airport.
sed on the driver’s return flight, so the car is ready when the customer
lands. It’s also cheaper than regular airport car parking.
Netflix knockout NETFLIX exceeded analysts’ expectations with its first-quarter earnings in 2025. The streaming service attributed its strong performance to ‘membership growth and higher pricing’, along with ‘the timing of expenses,’ which helped increase profitability. Earlier this year, Netflix raised prices for most of its subscription plans in the US, Canada, Portugal, parts of Europe and Argen-
tina. These price increases played a key role in boosting profitability, with the company’s operating margin rising to 31.7 per cent, up nearly four percentage points from the same quarter last year. However, Netflix noted that revenue from advertising still remains a small part of its overall income, with subscription fees continuing to be the main revenue driver.
In Seoul, Hyundai launched a similar system in an office building. Their robots move cars during work hours and even have autonomous chargers that drive up and charge electric vehicles. In China, robots are used to move illegally parked cars, although human officers still issue the fines. Argentina is getting in on the trend, too. The company Stradot has created a robotic valet system, though it’s larger and more focused on use by car manufacturers and logistics companies rather than public or private car parks. No matter what the size or style, one thing is clear: more and more, we’ll be trusting robots, guided by artificial intelligence, to take care of our cars.
41
Prat perfection THE energy transition is also being played out in the skies. Barcelona’s El Prat’s most iconic airline is leading the way. Between 2023 and 2024, Vueling increased its supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel tenfold. In a single year, the airline went from 1,285 to 12,766 tons of green fuel to reduce its emissions.
Enterprise edge
THE Chinese community leads Spain’s Self-Employed Regime, making up 14 per cent of foreign self-employed members, with 66,515 workers. Fifty-five per cent of working-age Chinese citizens are entrepreneurs, versus 45 per cent who are employees. According to Spain’s Union of Self-Employed Workers (UPTA), they are the only nationality in Spain with more self-employed individuals than salaried workers.
euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY
42 EWN 8 - 14 May 2025 Shutterstock / Master1305
Keep your hair looking healthy.
Summer strands AS temperatures rise, your hair needs extra care to stay healthy, hydrated, and protected. Sun, humidity, and heat can all take a toll, leaving hair dry, brittle, and prone to frizz. Start by switching to a moisturising shampoo and conditioner to help lock in hydration. Consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair serum with UV protection to shield your strands from sun damage, much like you would protect your skin. Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, so try to wash less often and embrace dry shampoos to
maintain freshness. After swimming in the sea or pool, rinse your hair with fresh water to remove salt and chlorine, both of which can dry and weaken hair. Protective hairstyles like braids or loose buns can minimise exposure to the sun and reduce breakage. Lightweight hats and scarves are also stylish ways to protect your scalp and hair from UV rays. Lastly, regular trims help keep your hair looking healthy by removing split ends. A little extra attention now will keep your hair looking shiny, strong, and beautiful all summer long.
Health tests
SOMETIMES we forget to pay the required attention to our health thereby forgetting to perform routine health checks. In our clinic not only will you find the best health care professionals who can help you with this, but they will also help you obtain results quickly. You will find the best professionals and the fastest results. Don’t leave it any longer, if you were thinking about visiting a specialist, call us and let’s schedule an appointment for you! Avenida de España 20, Local 5, Sitio de Calahonda, Málaga. +34 952 933 377
HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com
AI and the future of beauty ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the beauty industry, changing how brands create products, engage with customers, and deliver personalised experiences. From skincare diagnostics to virtual try-ons, AI is not just a trend - it’s becoming a vital tool for innovation. One of the most exciting developments is AI-powered skin analysis. Using advanced algorithms and smartphone cameras, apps can now assess skin conditions such as wrinkles, acne, and dryness, then recommend tailored skincare routines. This level of personalisation was once only available through in-person consultations. Make-up brands are also embracing AI through virtual try-on technology. Customers can now see how a lipstick shade or eyeshadow will look on their face in real time - no testers required. This not only enhances convenience but also reduces waste and improves hygiene. Behind the scenes, AI is helping companies forecast trends, optimise supply chains, and even develop new formulas based on consumer data. As AI continues to evolve, it’s clear that its role in the beauty industry will only expand.
8 - 14 May 2025
Catching up on sleep CHINESE scientists have revealed that catching up on sleep over the weekend, known as ‘compensatory’ sleep, can significantly reduce the risk of potentially fatal heart attacks or strokes. This new study sheds light on the benefits of extra sleep for those who struggle to get sufficient rest during the week. The research suggests that people who consistently get less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular problems. Lack of sleep is linked to elevated blood pressure, increased inflammation, and other factors that can contribute to heart disease and stroke. However, the study found that compensating for lost sleep on weekends can help mitigate these risks. According to the findings, individuals who
manage to sleep longer on weekends were able to lower their blood pressure and reduce stress levels, which are critical factors in preventing heart-related incidents. While it may not comple-
tely counteract the effects of chronic sleep deprivation, weekend compensatory sleep can provide the body with much-needed rest, helping to reset cardiovascular health markers.
EWN 43
FEATURE
44 8 - 14 May 2025
Meeting Agatha MARBELLA MOMENTS
INTERVIEW
New life between tapas - Speaking European In a quiet corner of Costa Blanca, situated among orange groves and Mediterranean breezes, Romanian Florina Moldovan and German Martin Krauss have found their place: a bar in Els Poblets, near Denia.
BY NICOLE KING I GREW up believing, like many, that orange and pink don’t match, nor do red and pink. Then came Agatha Ruiz de la Prada. Since 1981, this remarkable woman, related to Gaudi on her mother’s side and Goya on her father’s side, has changed the face of Spanish fashion. I personally love Agatha’s collections and have enjoyed watching her career and reputation blossom over the past five decades. She has vision, she has passion and she has an un-egotistical belief in herself and her abilities. Everything she does is playful, she believes it’s the fun in the creation that shapes her success. Her adult and children’s collections are joyous in colour and materials, adapting her easily identifiable and yet simple style to adorn almost any product you can think of, from clothes to natural cleaning products to caviar boxes. I would imagine that there are very few homes that don’t have something ‘Agatha’ in them, a notebook, a pen, a candle.
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Credit: Sa
Agatha, Marie Noelle and me!
Marbella is one of Agatha’s favourite places to visit, particularly to stay at the Heritage Hotel La Fonda in the Old Town, which she feels truly represents Spain’s at its finest and makes her feel very at home. Please check out this week’s Good Morning Spain for the full interview and to see me beside myself at meeting someone I so admire. Agatha is coming back to Benalmadena this Friday to inaugurate an exhibition in Benalmadena Costa. This is a great opportunity for us foreigners to meet Agatha and appreciate her influence and excellence in the world of Spanish art and fashion. She is all heart and colour. The opening ceremony starts at 8pm and will be open until September 19.
ntiag o
Ca r ne r
i THEY met on Facebar, visited her, brought book, lived seven her to Germany, and years together eventually, they in Stuttgart, moved to Spain and two years together. “We’d ago decided never heard of to make their Els Poblets beshared dream fore - we just come true ended up here. running their But we liked it own bar in Spain. straight away,” Now, the place is she recalls. full of life. Locals and They named the bar This year, the bar marks expats gather on the terraStuttgart, in honour of its second anniversary. ce, enjoying English breakthe city where their story fasts, German sausages, began. Though a local and the occasional Sunday paella. “Life is supermarket recently closed, little else is calm here, the climate’s lovely, and people missing. are kind,” says Florina with a smile. The “We’re still here, working side by side, TV plays Spanish news inside, but most and we’re happy,” Florina says. Their customers speak English or German. story is a quiet tale of modern Europe Florina first came to Spain in 2007, li- cross-cultural, slow-paced, and built on ved briefly in Madrid, then returned to love, beer, and sunny afternoons by the Romania. Martin, always keen to run a sea.
Spanish superstitions: A guide for the cautiously curious
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
THE number 13, often associated with bad luck in many cultures, holds a different fate in Spain. Tuesday the 13th (as is the case next week), NOT Friday the 13th, is considered an unlucky day, echoing the historical events of the Battle of Moclín, which took place on a Tuesday 13th. Basically, Tuesday is believed to be dominated by Mars, the Roman god of war, who gives his name to martes (Tuesday, in Spanish). An old proverb explains this superstition: ‘On Tuesday, don’t get married, embark on a journey or move away’ (En martes, ni te cases, ni te embarques, ni de tu casa te apartes). Other superstitions? Thinking of tossing your hat onto the bed? Don’t!
Spaniards once believed evil spirits lurk in hair, hitching a ride via your hat straight to your pillow. Sweet dreams indeed! Gift-giving? Skip scissors and knives as gifts unless you fancy cutting your relationships too. And your handbag? It deserves better than the floor. Pop it on a spare chair or invest in a ‘handbag hook’ otherwise your euros might mysteriously vanish (pickpockets, poltergeists, who can say?). Notice all those cacti on window sills? They’re not just for show: locals trust they keep wickedness at bay. Lastly, beware when sweeping: brushing a single woman’s feet is said to doom her to eternal spinsterhood. So sweep carefully - or forever hold your broom. Oops! Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
euroweeklynews.com
FEATURE
Guacamole, not Salsa! FROM COAST TO COAST LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA
Shutterstock Foodgraphy39
DON’T let anyone treat you like Salsa… you are Guacamole, baby! Cinco de Mayo is a big deal in the US, especially for those living near the border of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Because these states used to belong to Mexico, the mix of Mexican culture is alive. It’s a chance to celebrate that blend of traditions, food, colour, music, and joy! But here’s the thing: why do we make such a big deal about Cinco de Mayo in the US? In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862, when the Mexican army defeated the French forces. It’s a powerful symbol of Mexican pride and resilience - and honestly, I’d like to imagine that at that moment, the Mexicans looked the French right in the eye and said: “Don’t you dare treat us like free salsa. We are guacamole, baby. Guacamole!” Now, just to set the record straight Cinco de Mayo isn’t Mexico’s Independence Day (that’s on September 16). But it still holds a special place in Mexican history. In the US, especially in border states, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a life of its own. It’s a celebration of everything Mexican vibrant culture, rich history, and, of course, the food! (And let’s not forget the big Cinco de Mayo sales because nothing screams ‘Viva México’ like 30 per cent off patio furniture, right?) And speaking of food, I still remem-
ber the smell of BBQ floating out from every backyard, parks packed with people grilling carne asada, laughter filling the air, and of course... Guacamole, baby! Now, let’s talk guacamole. What’s the true star of Cinco de Mayo? Not the salsa (even though it’s good too), but GUACAMOLE fresh, creamy, zesty, and absolutely irresistible. Made with ripe avocados, onions, lime, peppers, a bit of olive oil... it’s not just a dip it’s the main event. Salsa might be free, but guacamole? Guacamole is what everyone’s really after. And here’s a fun twist: Did you know there was actually a war called ‘The War of the Pastries’? Yes, seriously! In 1838, Mexico and France clashed over, get this, destroyed French pastries. What a sweet war that must have been. Honestly, that’s the kind of battle I wouldn’t mind fighting: biscuits flying through the air, muffins rolling like cannonballs, frosting everywhere. Sign me up! If only all wars could be that delicious. And speaking of battles... let’s talk about YOU: Don’t let anyone treat you like salsa. Salsa might be free, it might come first, but let’s be clear you are guacamole! Walk into every room like you’re served in a handcrafted molcajete: fresh, vibrant, priceless. Be the guacamole. Be the reason everyone’s excited. When you enter, people should say, “Wow, that’s the guacamole I’ve been waiting for!” Happy (belated) Cinco de Mayo! aif2018@hot mail.com
Movaldi’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
8 - 14 May 2025
45
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48 8 - 14 May 2025
FEATURE
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• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers • Costa Blanca North
Costa Blanca South
A RECENT fundraising effort has changed the lives of many young athletes in the Marina Alta region. Thanks to a total of €6,800 raised, €3,000 of which was donated by the Teulada Moraira Lions, the local rhythmic gymnastics club has been able to upgrade key training equipment. They are the only sports club offering rhythm gymnastics between Gandia and Alicante, which means for children and young people with Olympic dreams, this non-profit is their best shot at success. In fact, some of the clubs’ young people will compete at the top level in the Spanish Nationals in 2025. The Lions were invited by the sports club to a training session to see the new equipment. The foam pit is an area that gymnasts can fall into safely. It had been 10 years since the pit was installed, and it required an upgrade. The event showcased why the new equipment was so important, both for safety and to enhance the experience of those training at the centre.
MORE than 350,000 people took part in the Santa Faz pilgrimage on Thursday, May 1, the largest turnout ever recorded. With clear skies and no major incidents, the day was calm and filled with community spirit across Alicante and neighbouring towns. This year’s pilgrimage was particularly special, taking place during the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, which occurs once every 25 years. The mayor of Alicante confirmed that efforts to have the Santa Faz pilgrimage recognised as an Asset of Cultural Interest are nearing completion. He hopes the official status will be in place by the 2026 event. Locals and visitors alike enjoyed the celebration. Speaking to participant Sofía Martínez, she said: “The festival helps us celebrate our local community and traditions with the rest of Spain and the world.” Santa Faz is the second largest pilgrimage in Spain, after El Rocío.
Axarquia
Almeria
AROUND 50 volunteers joined forces in Nerja for a beach cleanup organised under the Abrazos de Mar campaign. In one day, they managed to remove 103 kilogrammes of waste from the coastline, including plastic items, cigarette butts, wrappers, wet wipes, and even bulky debris. People travelled from different parts of Malaga Province to take part, showing dedication to protecting the coastal environment. Abrazos de Mar is an initiative led by long-distance swimmer Alberto Lorente, who is swimming around the Spanish coastline to raise awareness of marine pollution. Lorente, a professional bus driver and holder of four Guinness World Records, swims between 10 and 12 kilometres daily as part of the campaign. On May 3, he swam between the Torrox Lighthouse and Nerja’s Balcon de Europa, approximately 12 kilometres. Enrique Herrero, also known as Quique Bolsitas, joins him on land. Herrero collects plastic and other waste during each stage.
AFTER the pandemic and inflation period, Almeria benefited from temporary fare reductions and free public transport. However, these measures will be replaced by a new pricing plan from July 1, marking the end of free travel and discounted rates. The most significant change will be the introduction of a nationwide monthly travel pass for all Cercanías Renfe services, allowing unlimited travel across all networks. The new monthly pass will cost €20, offering an affordable way to travel throughout Spain’s Cercanías network. Additionally, there will be discounts for young people aged 15 to 26, and free travel for children under 15. In addition to the Cercanías pass, there will be discounts for medium-distance trains and state-run buses. Medium-distance train passengers will receive a 40 per cent discount, with a 50 per cent reduction for young travellers aged 15 to 26. Bus fares will be discounted by 40 to 70 per cent, depending on the passenger’s age and ticket type.
Mallorca
Costa Calida
THE Balearic Islands are once again poised to top Spain’s economic charts, with BBVA forecasting a 3.2 per cent growth in regional GDP for 2025, just ahead of the national average. The region already clocked an impressive 3.5 per cent in 2024, outpacing Spain’s overall 3.2 per cent according to the National Statistics Institute. The boom has been driven largely by the islands’ ever-thriving tourism industry and a boost in domestic demand. Come 2026, the pace is expected to slow, with GDP increasing by only 1.6 per cent, dipping just below the national forecast of 1.8 per cent. Even so, the Balearics will have grown a full 15 percentage points above their pre-pandemic level from 2019. According to Miguel Cardoso, BBVA’s chief economist for Spain and Portugal, employment has also surged, especially in hospitality, retail, and public services. Around 17,400 new jobs could be created over 2025 and 2026.
A NEW horror park called Horror Imperium is set to open in the Region of Murcia in 2026. It will cover 20,000 square metres and offer live shows, scary walk-throughs, and interactive games based on haunted houses. The company behind the project, Start Play, specialises in escape rooms. They say this will not be a typical theme park with rollercoasters. Instead, there will be seven different horror experiences, with 150 actors who interact with visitors to make each visit feel personal and exciting. For those who want an even scarier time, there will be options to get more involved in the story. The company says the goal is to mix fear with fun, so people leave with good memories as well as a few scares. The park will mainly open during the Halloween season, from October to November, but other events like musicals and dance shows will take place during the rest of the year.
Donation fuels dreams
Embracing the sea
Balearics leading growth
Tradition in motion
Train fare slashed
New Theme Park
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House-sitting for cats POPPY (shown in the picture) lives with Frank, Gracy and Audrey her siblings, and Angela their owner. Angela finds house-sitters to care for them through HouseSitMatch when she travels away from home. She finds it is much easier to find checked sitters to move into her home than to rehouse her pets when she goes on holiday. Four cats are a lot to rehome for a temporary period and they feel safer in their own home. And it’s cheaper too! HouseSitMatch saves you money We promote collaborative exchange through our managed online system - free accommodation for free pet care! It’s a real win win! HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked All members are checked for safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for
Meet Poppy - Her owners find cat-sitters for her and her siblings on HouseSitMatch.
your pets in your absence. Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. If you’re planning travel this
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A Super power Some can even detect illnesses such as cancer or diabetes, thanks to their ability to pick up on subtle chemical changes in the body. They also rely heavily on scent to navigate their environment and communicate with other animals. However, a dog’s sense of smell can be affected by factors like age, illness, and even certain medications. Dogs with respiratory Shutterstock / Renko Aleks
A DOG’S sense of smell is nothing short of extraordinary. In fact, it’s estimated to be up to 100,000 times more powerful than a human’s. Dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors in their noses, compared to just five million in ours, allowing them to detect even the faintest odours. Dogs can smell a wide range of things, from food and people to emotions like fear or happiness.
issues or older dogs might not detect scents as sharply as they once did. Their powerful noses make them ideal for roles in search and rescue,
police work, and therapy. Truly, a dog’s world is painted through smells, offering them a rich, detailed experience of life we can only imagine.
Cats’ and dogs' favourite store in Fuengirola Monday- Friday 10:00-20:00 Saturdays 10:00-18:00 Avenida de Los Boliches 80, Fuengirola
www.okidogi.store • +34 613 567 061
TIP
‘Windows to Wellness’
RESEARCH and learn how to properly care for your cat or kitten before you purchase or adopt. Ask your vet how to properly care for the cat or kitten you are selecting. This includes asking about the best food and enclosure or environment for your potential pet.
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Electric car blackout IMAGINE this: you are driving past petrol station queues in your quiet, environmentally friendly vehicle, while others remain stuck in their fuel-dependent cars… and then - suddenly, everything changes. The power cuts. No lights, no TV - and no charge for your prized electric car either. This week’s blackout across the Iberian Peninsula and southern France has left EV (electric vehicle) owners asking: “What happens when the plug stops giving?” And the answer is - it’s not good. Owning an electric car is usually a dream. You charge it at home, wave goodbye to mad petrol prices, and drive off feeling like Greta
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Blackout blowout: What happens to your electric car when the lights go out?
Thunberg’s favourite. But when the grid goes down? You’re stuck with a very expensive, very heavy paperweight. You can stockpile petrol in cans. Electricity? Not so easy to bottle up. Most EV owners charge overnight. If the power cuts before you plug in, you’re running on whatever charge you’ve got left. If you’re
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lucky, it’ll get you to your destination. If not, it’s tough luck. Got solar panels and a battery backup? You might manage a top-up. Otherwise, public chargers with solar or wind energy are your best bet - if their payment systems are still working. Top tip: Park it and save your battery for real emergencies.
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Credit : FotoAndalucia, Shutterstock MOST drivers in Spain know about the environmental stickers for low-emission zones, but fewer are aware of a fifth label: the V-26 sticker. Introduced in 2018, the V-26 isn’t about emissions - it identifies shared-use vehicles like carsharing DGT rules in focus – Spain’s traffic authority is and motosharing services. It’s blue, circular, introducing new guidelines for shared vehicle and shows a white car identification through the V-26 sticker. surrounded by five figures. creen; for motorbikes, somewhere Only vehicles registered in the clearly visible. The V-26 reflects DGT’s official database of shared Spain’s broader move towards mobility services can display it. sustainable urban travel. The DGT This sticker isn’t available for pri- plans stricter enforcement of hivate vehicles and requires com- gh-occupancy lanes, following pliance with Spain’s economic examples from cities like Paris. activity rules. While not mandatory From May 2025, drivers misusing everywhere, more cities now re- these lanes could face fines. quire or recommend the V-26 for As Spain pushes for shared moshared vehicles, offering perks like bility solutions, the V-26 could beaccess to high-occupancy lanes, come a major asset for drivers wandiscounted or free parking, and ting easier, cheaper travel through easier entry into restricted zones. city centres. That little blue sticker For cars, the sticker must go on might soon open a lot of doors on the top-left corner of the winds- Spain’s evolving roads.
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Sportiest version of Škoda’s new electric compact SUV ROAD TEST By Mark Slack CZECH car maker Škoda has been launching some attractive EVs and none more so than with their sporting vRS models. The company has now revealed the vRS range-topping Elroq just six months after the world premiere of the new Elroq range, which competes in the popular electric compact SUV segment. This latest member of the vRS family has two motors generating a total system output of 340 PS and is equipped with all-wheel drive. It comes with an electric range of more than 340 miles, specific vRS accessories and comprehensive standard equipment. It is also the fastest accelerating car in Škoda’s current model portfolio, sprinting from 0 to 100kph/62 mph in 5.4 seconds. The sporty top version of the Elroq was part of the Milan Design
Week following its digital world premiere, it was showcased at the event in Italy last month, marking the first public appearance of the Škoda Elroq vRS. The electric motors - on the front axle and on the rear axle - develop a total output of 340 PS and support all-wheel drive. Acceleration from 0 to 100kph/62
mph in 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 178 kph/111 mph mean the Elroq vRS is a veritable pocket rocket. The high-voltage battery
has a capacity of 84 kWh, enabling a stated maximum electric range of more than 547 km/340 miles on the WLTP cycle. Black exterior details and exclusive alloy wheels and the extensive standard equipment includes cutting-edge LED Matrix beam headlights and LED rear lights with dynamic indicators. An electrically adjustable driver’s seat with massage function also comes as standard. It is available for the front passenger as part of the optional Maxx Package. Like all Elroq models, the vRS variant is characterised by the new high-gloss black face accommodating multiple sensors, including radar. The LED Matrix beam headlights with their four-eye look is a hallmark of the Škoda SUV range. LED rear lights with dynamic indicators are also included as standard. Pricing and specification will be announced later, with first deliveries expected in the summer.
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ANDALUCIA Earthquakes at Anfield WALKING FOOTBALL Credit: Thomas McAtee, Shutterstock ANFIELD was literally rocking as Liverpool thumped Spurs 5-1 - seismologists recorded real mini-earthquakes during the goal celebrations. Mac Allister’s strike hit 1.74 on the Richter scale. It wasn’t just Tottenham that got shaken by Liverpool’s title-winning 5-1 demolition on Sunday April 27 - the ground beneath Anfield quite literally trembled as the Reds clinched Liverpool fans cause seismic shock as Reds smash the title. Spurs to clinch title. In a bizarre twist of football meets fault line, scientists from the King struck in the second half, jubilation University of Liverpool have confirmed hit 1.60. Even Destiny Udogie’s own goal that actual earthquakes were recorded caused seismic sadness for Spurs, clocduring the match, thanks to a raucous king in at 1.35. crowd of 60,415 delirious fans. Cody Gakpo added to the Richter rucResearchers claimed that ‘much like kus with a tidy goal (1.03), while even Luis natural seismic events, these goals pro- Diaz’s initially disallowed equaliser gave duced bursts of ground-shaking, triggered the Earth a polite nudge at 0.64. by the sheer passion of Liverpool fans’. While Tottenham were left in tatters, The most powerful quake hit at 24 mi- seismologists were busy checking their nutes, when Alexis Mac Allister buried a instruments. beauty to put Liverpool 2-1 up - a moment The seismic sensors had been speciathat registered a 1.74 on the Richter scale. lly installed for the occasion by experts The Kop’s favourite son, Mohamed Sa- hoping to track fan-induced earth movelah, wasn’t far behind. When the Egyptian ment.
LEAGUE AWFL League and Eurocopa
AWFL Over 50s Boca Seniors Competa 3 v 6 Nerja United With this league match having all the ingredients for a fiery local derby, it was played in great spirit, with both teams showing attacking intent throughout! From the start, the visitors took full advantage of a Competa side missing several key players, though the hosts worked hard to compete. With clinical finishing, Nerja’s Tony Wells scored twice early on and bagged his hat-trick soon after from the penalty spot. Competa responded quickly, Andrew Baker scoring to complete a counterattack, but Nerja struck again through a well-taken Martin Tompsett effort. The hosts pulled another goal back through Steffan Moos, following a defensive error, before Wells finished off a flowing move for his fourth, Nerja’s fifth. The home side refused to give up and Moos scored their third to close the gap. But it was too late, and Gerry Black finally sealed the result for Nerja with a sharp finish.
AWFL Clubs in the Eurocopa, Algarve El Cañadon OB entered the Over 50s Eurocopa for the first time last week and did themselves credit by winning eight of their 13 matches in the group stage but unfortunately went out in the knockout rounds. They enjoyed this first experience greatly and intend to return next year. Winners two years ago but this year with a hugely depleted squad resulting in some tired games in the latter stages, Malaga Over 50s failed to make it out of the group sector. However, the Over 60s had their most successful Eurocopa to date, only beaten in the semi-final by the eventual winners! No doubt they too will return next year. And finally...... Congratulations to Dave Coverdale and Steve Eastwood, two of our AWFL referees, who, having passed their formal assessments, are now classed as International Walking Football Referees and will officiate in the World Cup of Nations in Alicante later in the year.
Barcelona target Lookman
A LATE-GAME surge and nerves of steel send Sweden into the gold-medal match against Canada It was the kind of match that kept fans on the edge of their seats - a tense, hard-fought semi-final between two ice hockey powerhouses. But in the end, it was Sweden who edged out the USA in a dramatic 4–3 victory to book their spot in the U18 World Championship final. “We played to win,” said national team head coach Thomas Paananen, after what was arguably one of the most nail-biting finishes of the tournament so far. Things didn’t exactly go
BARCELONA is preparing its summer transfer window and is ready for all scenarios in its search for attacking reinforcements. Nico Williams, from Athletic Bilbao, remains the top target for the Blaugrana team, but the Catalan giants are keeping an eye on other players. Spanish media report that Barcelona have identified Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman as a potential target for this summer. The 27-year-old Nigerian forward is seen as a player who could strengthen the squad while still fitting into the club’s tight budget. Lookman has impressed for the Bergamo club this season, scoring 18 goals and providing seven assists across 37 appearances. He was instrumental in Atalanta’s presence in UEFA Champions League and also for the successful Serie campaign.
Credit : Paolo Bona, Shutterstock
Sweden beats the USA 4–3 in a thrilling U18 hockey semi-final.
Sweden’s way in the opening minutes. Paananen admitted the team struggled to find their footing early on. That gave Team USA an opportunity - and they took it, opening the scoring less than five minutes into the second period. But the Americans’ lead
didn’t last long. The Swedes responded with calm determination, equalising soon after and shifting the momentum. The third period delivered the drama. At one point, Sweden faced a serious challenge, going two men down and playing 3-on-5 - a nightmare scenario in any hockey match. With just under five minutes left on the clock, the USA narrowed the gap to 4–3, igniting hopes of a comeback. But Sweden kept their composure and closed out the match, sending them through to the final.
Credit: Barcelona official website
Sweden stuns USA
Barcelona players celebrating winning the Copa del Rey.
Ademola Lookman.
Lookman’s situation in Italy may also play in Barcelona’s favour. Reports suggest a breakdown in his relationship with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has led the player to request a transfer. That internal friction could push down his market value, with estimates placing a potential transfer fee
around €35 million, less than the price tag on Nico Williams. A fast and skillful attacking player with massive international experience, Lookman fits Barcelona tactical requirements. The Nigerian has the advantage of being capable of playing anywhere across the frontline. While Nico Williams remains the preferred option, Barcelona’s sporting department is making sure they have a strong Plan B.