Mallorca 16 – 22 October 2025 Issue 2102

Spielberg at sea

HOLLYWOOD legend Steven Spielberg has been spotted cruising off the coast of Mallorca aboard his new superyacht, Seven Seas I. The 357-foot vessel, worth an estimated €215 million, was seen anchored near Puerto Portals, drawing attention from locals and yacht enthusiasts alike.

Built by Oceanco, Seven Seas I is among the most advanced private yachts in the world, featuring a cinema, helipad, dual swimming pools, and luxurious guest suites. The yacht replaces Spielberg’s previous vessel of the same name, which he sold several years ago before commissioning this larger, more technologically sophisticated model.

It has not been confirmed whether Spielberg himself is currently aboard, though the director is a regular visitor to the Balearics. Last summer, he toured the island alongside actor Daniel Day-Lewis, spending time near Sa Foradada and Port d’Andratx.

IN a rare glimpse into his private life, Rafa Nadal has shared a photo from a relaxed family outing as he returns home to Mallorca.

The image shows the 22-time Grand Slam champion smiling beside his wife Maria Perelló, who holds their newborn son Miquel, while their eldest, Rafael Jr, stands close by. The tender, sunlit photocaptioned ‘Family time in Mallorca’ - quickly went viral, o ering fans a heartwarming look at Nadal’s life o the court.

Since announcing his retirement from professional tennis in late 2024, the 38-year-old has shifted focus to family and his charitable work through the Rafa Nadal Foundation, where Perelló plays an active role. The couple welcomed Miquel in August 2025, nearly three years

Spielberg, best known for classics such as Jaws, E.T., and Schindler’s List, remains one of the most successful filmmakers in history.

His connection to the sea dates back to his early career, with Jaws - the film that revolutionised modern cinema - cementing his fas-

cination with the ocean. Although he’s not likely to spot any Jaws-esque sharks in Mallorca!

Now, his latest maritime masterpiece, Seven Seas I, continues that legacy - a fitting vessel for a storyteller who has spent his life charting new horizons.

after the birth of Rafael Jr in October 2022. Spanish media report that Miquel’s name honours Perelló’s late father.

Born and raised in Manacor, Nadal remains one of Mallorca’s most admired gures. His Rafa Nadal Academy by Movistar, located in his hometown, stands as both a worldclass training centre and a symbol of local pride.

For fans, the photo marks a new chapter - a champion embracing island life, family, and the quiet joy of home after a legendary career.

Property boom

EXPATRIATES across the Balearics are celebrating as years of investment and redevelopment - particularly in Calvia - begin to pay o , with property prices hitting record highs across the islands.

According to the latest data from Idealista, the Balearic Islands remain Spain’s most expensive region to buy property. The average price of a second-hand home now exceeds €5,000 per square metre, marking a 12.3 per cent annual increase as of August 2025.

Over the past decade, millions of euros in public and private investment have transformed municipalities such as Calvia, improving infrastructure, upgrading resorts, and attracting high-end hospitality brands. The result is not just a stronger tourism sector but a clear ripple e ect on property prices. Calvia, in particular, now ranks among the ve most expensive municipalities in the Balearics, with an average of €6,925 per square metre.

The average price of new housing in Spain has also reached a historic high of €3,151 per square metre, with forecasts predicting an 8.7 per cent rise over the year ahead. Agents say the Balearics’ appeal shows no signs of slowing.

Luxury status win

THE Balearic Islands have cemented their status as one of Europe’s leading luxury destinations, with Mallorca taking centre stage in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

The latest rankings, voted for by readers in the UK and the US, highlight several Balearic hotels among Spain’s best - reaffirming the islands’ growing reputation for world-class service and refined Mediterranean style.

In the UK list, six Balearic hotels were recognised: El Llorenç Parc de la Mar and Sant Francesc Hotel Singular in Palma; Grand Hotel Son Net in Puigpunyent; Can Ferrereta in Santanyi; Expe-

rimental Menorca; and Petunia Ibiza, a Beaumier Hotel. Meanwhile, the US edition features El Vicenç de la Mar, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, Can Ferrereta, Sa Torre Vella in Menorca, and Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay. Boutique group Nybau Hotels, which manages El Llorenç Parc de la Mar and El Vicenç de la Mar, said the awards were ‘a testament to the dedication and passion’

of their teams. With its blend of natural beauty, heritage and elevated hospitality, Mallorca’s luxury appeal continues to skyrocket, securing its place among the Mediterranean’s most coveted destinations.

Thanks to coastal settings, visionary hoteliers and an evolving focus on sustainable luxury, the island’s global prestige is no longer rising -it’s soaring.

Palma on pre-alert

THE city council of Palma activated its Plan Territorial de Emergencias (PlaterPALMA) in a continuous pre-alert phase for October and November 2025, marking the first time it has been applied preventively.

The initiative, announced at the Municipal Civil

Protection Commission, aims to strengthen preparedness for extreme weather such as heavy rain, floods, and storms - common during Mallorca’s autumn. Previously, PlaterPALMA was only activated temporarily during crises, but it will now remain active to ensure faster coordination between city services and emergency teams.

The decision follows meteorological warnings linked to DANA ‘Alice’, which has caused torrential rain and flooding in parts of Alicante and Murcia. The city plans to extend the preventive phase from August 15 until November 2026, covering the full high-risk season.

A public awareness campaign has also been launched, featuring a trifold leaflet in Spanish and Catalan with safety tips for storms, floods, and extreme cold. It also includes a QR code for online access.

The Palma Fire Service and Civil Protection volunteers will play key roles during this phase. Palma’s emergency units have also assisted in regional operations, from flood relief in Ibiza to wildfire support in Castilla y Leon.

By keeping PlaterPALMA in preventive mode, Palma shifts from reactive to proactive emergency management - setting a model for other Balearic municipalities.

Digital border shift

Madrid leads rollout

SPAIN has launched the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), ending passport stamps and introducing fully digital border checks. The system debuts at Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Barajas Airport, where non-EU travellers, including Britons, will register using biometric kiosks. After delays, rollout began on October 12 and will expand across the EU, with full implementation by April 2026.

At Madrid Airport, 48 self-service kiosks scan passports, capture facial images, and record four fingerprints. This data is stored in a central EU database, allowing border agents to verify travellers quickly on future visits. Officials say the aim is faster, safer, and smarter border control.

Spain’s Interior Ministry invested €83 million to upgrade infrastructure. Travellers register at kiosks, then pass through automated gates for a second facial recognition check to prevent identity fraud. Initial registration may take slightly longer, but later crossings will be quicker.

The EES covers all non-EU nationals entering for short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days, including UK, US, and Australian visitors. Visa holders provide only facial data; visa-free travellers must give both facial and fingerprint information. The system automatically logs entries, exits, and refusals, replacing stamps and tracking overstays precisely.

Madrid is the first hub, with other airports, ports, and

land crossings to follow. Staff and police will assist passengers, and authorities emphasise privacy safeguards and secure data handling. Spain is leading the EU toward smart, digital borders.

Recover your NUSS

Easy steps explained

LOSING your Spanish Social Security number need not cause panic. Your NUSS or NAF (Número de la Seguridad Social) is essential for employment, benefits, and healthcare. It is a lifelong identifier that never changes, so if you’ve worked, paid into the system, or received any Social Security correspondence, you already have oneit’s a matter of locating it.

The fastest method is through Import@ss, Spain’s official Social Security portal. Logging into your Área Personal allows you to view your number instantly and download an official certificate. Sign in using a digital certificate, Cl@ve credentials, or a one-time SMS code. The Import@ss mobile app works in the same secure way. Always use the official site - Social Security will never request banking details or passwords via email or text.

Offline, your NUSS may appear on payslips, employment contracts, vida laboral, benefit letters, health cards, or prescriptions. For newcomers, applying is straightforward: complete the TA.1 form online via Import@ss or at your local TGSS office. The administration has up to 45 days to issue the number, which remains valid for life. Once obtained, keep your NUSS private and secure. Quick steps: check Import@ss first, review documents second, and for new applicants, submit a TA.1 form. In most cases, you can recover your Social Security number in minutes, with no queues or stress.

IVA Revenue surge New rules

Spain ends cuts

SPAIN’S Treasury is reporting a major increase in tax revenue after the government reinstated standard IVA (VAT) rates on food and energy, ending tempo -

IVA income rose 10 per cent, reaching €69.39 billion, according to the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria). The rise is largely due to restored rates on basic goods and electricity, two of the most sub

generated an extra €1.67 billion, mostly from food staples such as bread, milk, and cheese, which were taxed at 0 per cent in 2023, increased to 2 per cent in late 2024, and returned to 4 per cent at the start of 2025. Electricity IVA is back to 21 per cent, adding €378 million.

Consumer spending remains strong, with the Treasury collecting €209.85 billion in the first eight months of 2025 - nearly €20 billion more than the same period last year, a 10.8 per cent increase.

IVA receipts have risen steadily over the past three years. Alcohol tax income fell 3 per cent to €719 million, suggesting reduced consumption or a shift to cheaper brands.

Restoring standard IVA rates is helping replenish state funds after years of emergency measures, though for families it means higher supermarket and energy bills.

Commitment plan

ALBERTO NUÑEZ FEIJOO, leader of Spain’s opposition Popular Party (PP), has proposed a voluntary ‘Letter of Commitment’ for immigrants, including the 400,000 UK citizens residing in Spain.

Unveiled at a Valencia party conference and detailed in a leaked PP policy paper, the initiative aims to force integration by requiring newcomers to affirm core values like democracy, tolerance, and respect in the Spanish Constitution.

The declaration, signed during residency applications or renewals, pledges participation in Spain’s ‘two-way integration process’ under Article 66 of the 2000 law, emphasising Spanish language learning and civic knowledge. For post-Brexit UK expatriates - many pre-settled under the EU Withdrawal Agreement with third-country status via TIE cards - Feijoo argues it counters ‘isolated expat enclaves’ in areas like Costa del Sol and Alicante, promoting reciprocal respect amid rising migration debates.

Non-binding for current residents, the letter could unlock perks such as priority social housing, free language courses, or expedited naturalisation, which requires demonstrated ‘integration efforts’.

Enforcement remains unclear, but it could block ‘arraigo’ naturalisation pathways for irregular stays. Timed for 2027 elections, Feijoo positions this as a centrist alternative to Vox’s anti-immigrant stance.

€1m jewellery heist shock

Rural tourism revival

A NEW agrarian law in the Balearics could give a major boost to rural tourism and help revitalise the islands’ agricultural sector. Now out for public consultation, the draft law aims to make farms more profitable by offering ‘tools that promote development’ rather than direct financial aid.

The legislation returns to the 2014 Agrarian Law, which encouraged complementary activities such as tourism. Under the new proposal, farmers will once again be able to offer farm stays (agroturismos), but with greater flexibility. Guests can now be accom-

modated not only in the main farmhouse but also in other existing buildings on the property - often old stables or barns - which may be renovated and expanded by up to 20 per cent for comfort and safety.

Each farm stay will be li-

mited to 10 beds, with no increase to the islands’ overall accommodation quota. However, island councils will apply a 60 per cent discount when farmers purchase these tourism places, making the option more affordable.

Emergency phone warning

The storms were linked to DANA Alice, which brought widespread rainfall across the Balearic Islands, with Ibiza once again seeing the most intense downpours.

Emergency teams responded to reports of minor flooding and road closures in northern areas. Authorities say the new alert system marks a major step forward in keeping residents informed during extreme weather.

By early Sunday, rainfall had eased, though forecasters warned unstable conditions could continue as DANA Alice moved east over the Mediterranean.

Roar-some family day out

IT’S all engines go now the Monster World Tour 2025 has arrived in Palma, bringing its roaring engines and colossal trucks to the Son Fusteret showground. Running until November 2, this high-octane event promises to be one of the island’s biggest family attractions this autumn.

The internationally acclaimed motorsport show has already wowed audiences across Europe, from Paris to Lisbon, and is now making its Mallorca debut. Fans can expect an explosion of horsepower, noise and energy, as trucks boasting up to 1,400 CV thunder through daring jumps, flips and freestyle stunts.The event will run throughout October,

with a packed schedule of afternoon, evening and Sunday midday shows (tickets from €18.)

Each show blends gravity-defying tricks, car-crushing power, and pyrotechnic effects, transforming Son Fusteret into an openair arena of sound and spectacle. Parents will be pleased to know the event is geared towards families, with suitable timings for children and a festival-style set-

Fire meets flavour

MALLORCA‘S gastronomy scene is on fire right now and Argentinian-influenced hotspot Brasa Madre - famous for its live fire cooking - is one of the brightest flames.

up. On-site food and drink stalls, merchandise stands, and meet-and-greet areas with drivers add to the lively, carnival-like atmosphere.

Whether you’re a motorsport fan, a family looking for weekend entertainment, or simply curious to experience something out of the ordinary, the Monsters World Tour 2025 looks set to deliver on its promise: big engines, big energy, and big smiles all round.

Lights, camera, Palma!

PALMA will once again welcome the global film community as the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) returns for its 14th edition from October 21-29.

Founded and directed by Sandra Lipski, EMIFF has grown into one of Europe’s leading boutique festivals, blending Mallorca’s creative spirit with international reach.

This year’s programme will feature more than 130 films from over 30 countries, including national and Ba-

learic premieres. The popular Made in Baleares section will again celebrate the islands’ thriving creative scene and growing reputation as a hub for film production.

Lipski describes EMIFF as “a boutique festival that combines closeness with international projection - a space where emerging and established filmmakers can grow together, inspired by the transformative power of cinema.”

Screenings and events will be held across Palma’s most iconic venues,

including CineCiutat, Teatre Principal, and the Palau de Congressos. Alongside red-carpet premieres, the festival will host industry talks, workshops, and a Cinematography Focus programme supported by major partners such as Sony and Leitz.

With its mix of creativity, Mediterranean flair, and global connections, EMIFF continues to cement its place as a cultural highlightbridging Hollywood and the Balearics through the universal language of film.

The menu reads like a love letter to meat lovers and under Chef Chávez’s direction, the team seek out the best livestock producers daily. New pieces are personally selected by the talented chef each week, like the Tomahawk recommended to us on our visit.

The prime cut arrived still sizzling and perfectly rare within. Each bite is a balance of smoke, sweetness and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Now in its third season, Brasa Madre celebrates the art of grilling with precision and passion with a menu that allows this simple yet

powerful technique to shine.

And although the meat steals focus, there’s a whole array of other delights to try: from chargrilled octopus to grilled sweetbreads, plus stand-out sides like grilled lettuce with bacon, sour cream and fried onion.

Apart from the incredible food, the restaurant’s charm lies in its atmosphere -

intimate yet buzzy. Wooden panelling, chintzy green velvet chairs and golden lamps all create a setting that feels sophisticated and inviting.

In a city crowded with good restaurants, Brasa Madre is something unique.

Carrer de Sant Llorenç, 23, Centre, 07012 Palma Tel: 603 490 486

Adults Only (+12)

Mallorca’s rising culinary star

BEFORE she ever stepped into a professional kitchen, Vanessa Silva understood that food could tell a story. Born in Los Teques, Venezuela, a city shaped by mestizaje - the fusion of Indigenous and Spanish culture - she grew up surrounded by the aromas of ají, cilantro and achiote, and the irresistible scent of tequeños (the country’s famous cheese pastries) frying to golden perfection. Those flavours, passed down through generations, still guide her today on the island of Mallorca, where she’s fast emerging as one of the most exciting new voices in Mediterranean dining.

“Cooking was instinctive,” she says. “The true seed of my passion was planted in the kitchens of my two grandmothers.” Inspired equally by the playfulness of Jamie Oliver and the precision of Venezuelan chef Héctor Romero, Silva found her own rhythm - one that now pulses through two of Mallorca’s standout restaurants: O96 in Pollensa and Mestis in Santa Catalina.

“O96 is elegant but never stiff,” she says. “Mestis is bright, bold and full of energy - food for every day and every mood.” What unites them

is intent: “We care about how people feel as much as how they eat.”

Her philosophy is simple: lead with empathy, cook with honesty, and never lose curiosity.

“When the team feels good,” she smiles, “the food always tastes better.”

MALLORCA became the international meeting point for excellence in insurance advice as Generali held the grand finale of its Global Advisor Excellence Contest (GAEC) 2025 on the island from October 1 - 3.

Global Advisor gala

The event brought together representatives from 25 countries across Europe, Asia and Latin America, recognising the best Generali agents worldwide for their innovation, client service and commitment to excellence. More

than 164,000 agents took part in this year’s contest.

Among the top achievers were two Spanish agents: Pedro Orgaz, from Generali Aranjuez (Madrid), who ranked among the top 10 agents worldwi-

de, and David Sanz, who received the award in the Multi-policy Clients category.

The global winner of this year’s contest was Anna Pagani from Generali Italy.

During the three-day gala, Mallorca welcomed finalists and representatives from Generali’s Distribution teams worldwide.

The GAEC, launched in 2017, forms part of Generali Group’s Lifetime Partner strategy, which puts customers at the heart of everything the company does.

More than 164,000 agents took part in this year’s contest.

The party (boat) is over

PALMA City Council has announced a new set of measures aimed at tightening control over the city’s tourism sector and addressing the ongoing housing shortage. The proposals, presented this week by Mayor Jaime Martínez, include a full ban on all forms of holiday rentals, a prohibition on party boats operating from Palma’s port, and a suspension on new youth hostels.

According to the announcement, the city’s ban on holiday rentals will now extend to single-family homes and private rooms.

The new restrictions will be retroactive for three months, meaning that no new licences have been granted during that period. The 639 existing legal tourist rental licences in Palma will remain valid until they expire or are voluntarily surrendered, but once a licence is cancelled, it cannot be replaced.

Mayor Martínez said the objective is to ensure housing in Palma is used primarily for residents rather than short-term tourist stays. The initiative also includes a ban on new youth hostels. Another part of the reform is the introduction of a ban on party boats departing from Palma’s Paseo Marítimo.

Missile depot sparks outcry

RESIDENTS

of Sa Casa Blanca are up in arms after discovering that Spain’s Ministry of Defence intends to construct a missile storage depot beside Palma’s Son Sant Joan Airport. Locals say they were blindsided by the news, having learned of it through the press rather than from any official announcement.

“I don’t want bombs next to my house,” one neighbour told Ultimate Hora, expressing both fear and frustration. Many in the community believe they’ll never receive an explanation, as the site sits within a military zone, leaving them with little recourse.

Maribel Alcázar, president of Palma’s federation of residents associations, criticised the plan as “incompatible with what we believe about the island.” She said the installation of an explosives store so close to homes ‘reflects the state’s warlike ambitions’. “We can only object,” she added. “When it comes from Madrid, they simply ignore us.”

The planned bunker-like structure - nicknamed an ‘igloo’ for its rounded designwill measure 27 metres long, 10 metres wide and 4.5 metres high, and hold up to 75 tonnes of explosive material. It is due to be completed by next summer.

The location lies beside the old Spantax Convair CV990 Coronado, a relic of Spain’s first charter airline, which collapsed in 1988. The aircraft has sat abandoned in the airport’s military area for 37 years.

Your

VOICE

Maybe next year, Donald.

Do you think Trump should have won the Nobel Peace Prize?

THE 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, recognised for her efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela. Her win comes after a year of renewed debate around the eligibility and meaning of the Peace Prize, with many questioning whether Donald Trump, following his recent ceasefire initiative in Gaza, should have been considered.

Reactions to the question ‘Do you think Trump should have won the Nobel Peace Prize?’ were overwhelmingly strong - and mostly negative. Many respondents pointed to the timing. Trump, who returned to the presidency in January, launched a peace plan shortly after taking office. However, as reports have pointed out, the deadline for nominations had already passed. As Dickie Sharp put it, “He could never have won it as the nominees had to be in by January, educate yourselves.” Alex Burridge added, “No, the closing date for nominations is January 31 and no nomination had been made by that date. There is nothing to stop President Trump from being nominated for next year’s Nobel Peace Prize.”

Others rejected the idea entirely. Jack Santo said, “One of the most divisive ‘leaders’ in history? Is this a real question?”, while Rod Ellwood

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stated bluntly, “You must be joking!” Nigel Armitage remarked, “No, wouldn’t even give him a Blue Peter badge.” Echoing that sentiment, Susan Wallace, Kathleen Neville, Linda Farr and many others emphatically said, “No.” Richard Thornton argued, “The Nobel Peace Prize shouldn’t be applicable to anyone in political office. Keeping peace is their job.”

Yet, there was a smaller group in support. Josie Denham said, “YES. He’s the only president not to have started a war during his term for one thing.” Kurt Elutin insisted, “Yes, clearly. Doesn’t matter how much you love him or hate him. Nobody did more than him for peace in the last year... Even Maria Machado acknowledged that!” Jeremy Newman added a more measured view: “He might yet qualify. My understanding is that the Nobel committee base their decision on the previous year’s achievements. Not the day before.”

In the end, the vast majority of respondents said ‘no’, often citing either Trump’s record or the nomination deadlines. A minority expressed support, arguing he deserved recognition for diplomatic achievements or at least a chance in 2026.

For now, the Nobel Peace Prize belongs to María Corina Machado, but the debate over Trump’s role in future awards is far from over.

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FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Steel clampdown

EUROPEAN Commission proposes doubling steel import tariffs to 50 per cent from 25 per cent, targeting Chinese overproduction to safeguard Europe’s steel sector. Quota-free imports will halve to 18.3 million tonnes, improving traceability to curb evasion.

Smishing victim

ORGANISATION of Consumers and Users (OCU) has successfully intervened to ensure a BBVA customer recovers the full €8,620 stolen via smishing, a text-based phishing scam. The fraudsters sent deceptive SMS messages tricking the victim into revealing information. The bank reimbursed the entire amount following OCU’s advocacy.

Cash is king

EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK (ECB) has clarified how much money households should stash away at home to weather crises like blackouts or wars. In a new report, it stresses cash’s role as a vital backup when digital payments fail. Experts recommend €200-500 per person for essentials.

Bounce back

SUPERMERCADOS DIA has turned profitable, reporting a net profit of €37.8 million for the first half of 2025, compared to €94 million losses last year. The figure includes €12m from discontinued operations. Strong Spanish operations and a sustainable value strategy for shareholders and stakeholders fuelled recovery.

Power surge

SPAIN’S wholesale electricity prices dropped 10.8 per cent in September to €61.04/MWh, driven by surging solar energy production and a 14.7 per cent fall in gas costs to €32.04/MWh. Midday rates plummeted 54 per cent year-on-year despite higher demand and reduced wind output.

is the average cost of living in Spain compared to the UK.

Mone to return £122m

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has urged Baroness Michelle Mone’s removal from the House of Lords after a High Court ruling on October 1 ordered PPE Medpro, linked to Mone’s husband, Doug Barrowman, to repay £122 million for breaching a contract to supply 25 million surgical gowns during the Covid-19 pandemic. The gowns, ruled non-sterile by Mrs Justice Cockerill, were unusable in the NHS. PPE Medpro, now in administration, has until October 15 to repay the funds.

Mone, famed for founding Ultimo, allegedly lobbied the government to secure the contract

for PPE Medpro in 2020 without declaring her interest, using a controversial ‘VIP lane’. The Department of Health and Social Care sued, claiming the gowns failed contractual standards. The firm faces a National Crime Agency

Gas price hike

STARTING October 1, gas prices in Spain rose for natural gas and butane cylinders, used for heating, cooking, and hot water, as winter nears.

For natural gas, the Tariff of Last Resort (TUR) increases. For a typical household (TUR1), the variable cost rises from 4.12 to 4.50 cents per kilowatt-hour, with the fixed monthly fee increasing from €3.26 to €3.93. A household using 400 kWh monthly faces an extra €2.19. For Neighbour Communities (TUR4), costs rise by about €6.24 for 2,000 kWh, plus a €16.90 fixed fee increase.

Butane cylinder prices, last raised on September 17, 2024, from €15.37 to €15.93, add €0.56 per cylinder. A household using two cylinders monthly pays an extra €1.12.

The increases will tighten belts low-income families,

Sun power

IN a historic milestone, solar photovoltaic energy has overtaken wind power as Spain’s dominant renewable source, with capacity reaching 32,350 megawatts (MW) in 2024, a 22.8 per cent rise from 2024. Wind lagged at 32,100 MW, up just 4.1 per cent.

Overall, renewables hit 66,756 MW, a 12.2 per cent increase, according to Informa’s DBK report. Solar sales rose 17.8 per cent to 43,181 gigawatt-hours, though revenues dipped due to market volatility. Andalucia leads growth at 23.15 per cent, nearing Castilla-La Mancha’s top spot.

probe and a House of Lords inquiry. Reeves accused Mone of ‘ripping off taxpayers’, hoping she won’t return from her Lords leave of absence. “She shouldn’t be making laws,” Reeves said, noting peerage removal

requires parliamentary action. Health Secretary Wes Streeting vowed to recover ‘every penny’ for the NHS, condemning PPE Medpro’s substandard supplies.

Mone called the ruling an ‘establishment win’, while Barrowman deemed it a ‘travesty of justice’. Mone admitted being a ‘conduit’ but claimed misleading the press wasn’t criminal. Leaked documents show Barrowman earned £65 million, with £29 million in a trust for Mone and her children.

Once a celebrated entrepreneur, Mone’s reputation is tarnished by scrutiny over her business record and the PPE scandal.

despite subsidies, as 64.5 million butane cylinders are used yearly. Price reviews occur every two months for butane and three for natural gas, with relief unlikely before spring 2026.

Sweet temptation

MERCADONA, the supermarket chain owned by Juan Roig, has launched a new pistachio cake priced at €4.10, hoping to sweeten the transition from summer to autumn. The cake has already caused a buzz, with TikTok user Iris sharing a viral video review, amassing over 100,000 views. She praised the cake’s rich pistachio flavour, tender texture, and generous filling, though noted its intense white chocolate and high sugar content, rating it 8.5/10. However, some users criticised the overuse of pistachio in products, despite the cake’s popularity, reflecting mixed sentiments about this trendy flavour in today’s market.

Gold at record high

GOLD, a traditional safe-haven asset, has surpassed $4,000 per ounce for the first time, reaching $4,030.30, according to Efe. With a 51.59 per cent gain in 2025, gold is on track for its strongest performance since 1979.

The surge is driven by global uncertainties, including the US government shutdown delaying key economic data, which complicates Federal Reserve interest rate decisions.

Political turmoil in France, with the prime minister’s resignation, alongside Trump’s trade war and geopolitical crises in Ukraine and Gaza, has further boosted demand for safe-haven assets like gold.

SPANIARDS are making slow progress in financial literacy, lagging behind the European average despite efforts from public and private sectors.

Technology is emerging as a key ally, particularly for younger generations, simplifying personal finance management.

A Funcas survey reveals 27 per cent of Spaniards feel ill-equipped to manage their money, while the 2023 European Commission Barometer shows only 19 per cent have high financial knowledge, compared to Europe’s 26 per cent.

AMAZON celebrated the fifth anniversary of its state-ofthe-art robotic logistics centre (SVQ1) in Dos Hermanas, Sevilla, with a high-profile event attended by Andalucia President Juanma Moreno and local leaders.

Since opening, Amazon has poured over €1.2 billion into the region, boosting GDP by €900 million and creating 1,600 direct jobs at the facility- Europe’s largest solar-roofed warehouse with 13,000 panels powering 1,500 homes annually.

The centre, featuring 15km of conveyor belts, supports 2,500 local SMEs, enabling €135 million in exports last year.

AIRBUS delivered 73 commercial aircraft in September, totalling 507 units in the first nine months, a 2 per cent increase from 497 in 2024. These include 454 single-aisle aircraft (62 A220, 392 A320), 20 A330, and 33 A350, delivered to 79 customers.

In September, Airbus sealed deals on orders for 10 additional aircraft, bringing the yearly net to 514. CEO Guillaume Faury plans to recover ground, targeting 820 deliveries in 2025, surpassing the 766 in 2024.

Beazley 934,50 938,50 930,07 851,34K Berkeley 3.862,0 3.906,0 3.840,0 17,35K BP 431,15 432,30 427,95 3,11M

American Tobacco 3.844,3 3.853,0 3.832,0 411,97K

2.452,0 2.452,3 2.426,0 91,2K

169,80 170,60 169,79 946,5K

HBC

3.370,0 3.384,0 3.356,0 60,52K

2.585,02 2.597,00 2.559,00 877,45K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Defence boom

SPAIN’S defence, security, aeronautics, and space industry achieved €16.153 billion in 2024 revenues, a 16 per cent jump, driven by Ukraine war and China tensions. TEDAE reports 2.3 per cent of national industrial turnover, 260,000 jobs, €9.931 billion exports, and €2.614 billion R&D.

Blackout risk

SPAIN’S energy industry blasts Red Electrica de España (REE) for alerting CNMC to potential blackouts like April 28’s, blaming renewables, synchronous response lags, and unseen autoconsumo up to 8 GW. “REE admits control loss over years,” sources say.

Stablecoins vs CBDCs

THE global financial system is shifting as stablecoinsprivate digital assets pegged to cash like the US dollarand CBDCs - state-issued digital currencies - challenge traditional banking. They promise stability but clash on philosophy: private innovation versus sovereign control.

Stablecoins mimic digital cash, backed by reserves like bank deposits or bonds, with algorithms maintaining pegs. Benefits include fast cross-border transfers, DeFi integration, and crypto on-ramps. Risks: opaque reserves, ‘bank runs’, and

EU vs Spain on luggage

BRUSSELS has launched an infringement procedure against Spain for fining low-cost airlines, including Ryanair and Vueling, of up to €179 million for charging extra for carry-on luggage. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, argues that Spain’s Air Navigation Law and the sanctions violate EU regulations

on air services, specifically the freedom of airlines to set prices. The law restricts carriers from charging for any hand luggage, conflicting with EU rules allowing fees for bags exceeding reasonable size and weight limits. Spain has two months to respond or amend its legislation to avoid a case at the European Court of Justice.

over-reliance on issuers. The BIS notes their reliability but warns of vulnerabilities.

CBDCs are governmentguaranteed digital cash. Retail versions replace physical money for consumers; wholesale aids interbank settlements. Pros: cheap, inclusive payments. Cons: privacy erosion, bank disintermediation, and surveillance, as seen in China’s digital yuan.

US Stance: Trump banned a federal CBDC, fearing government overreach: The GENIUS Act regulates stablecoins with 1:1 backing, audits, and dual oversight to bolster the dollar via private firms, despite risks.

EU Path: The ECB targets a 2020s digital euro launch, complementary to cash. Stablecoins are capped, mandate audits, unifying crypto rules across eurozone nations amid skepticism over tracking.

US markets vs. EU safeguards: Digital cash will redefine money in the next few years.

Iberian China

AMID escalating EU-China trade tensions, with tariffs up to 62.4 per cent on European pork, Spanish Iberian ham exports to China surged to €28.08 million in 2024. First-half 2025 sales hit €11.74 million, a 8.4 per cent rise. Iberian pork products evade duties, fuelling promotions like ‘Awaken Your Ibérico Sense’.

Boeing military

BOEING delivered Germany’s inaugural P-8A Poseidon, first of eight replacing P-3C Orions, improving NATO deterrence in the Baltic against rising Russian submarines. This ‘flying guardian’ boasts 907 km/h speed, 12,496m ceiling, Harpoon missiles, and 129 sonobuoys. Germany eyes four more, joining eight P-8A operators with over 700,000 flight hours.

Child locked

POLICE in Vilsbiburg, Bavaria, found an 11-year-old girl locked for hours in a small storage room after school. Her parents reportedly forced her to stay there daily until they returned home. The child, discovered after an anonymous tip, was unharmed but has been placed in care. The parents are under investigation for child neglect and abuse.

Illegal Muffin

A SAVANNAH cat named Muffin has been banned from a residential property in North Rhine-Westphalia, after the Higher Administrative Court in Münster ruled she is too dangerous. Muffin, a hybrid of a serval and domestic cat, was kept as a pet in the city centre. Authorities and courts cited her unpredictable behaviour and safety risks as reasons.

EURO PRESS

PORTUGAL ITALY

Big adventure

ACTOR Chris Noth, famous for his role as Mr Big in Sex and the City, shared photos of a hike along Portugal’s Alentejo Coast with friend Alfonso. The pair stopped for a swim in the Atlantic and enjoyed local seafood in Zambujeira do Mar. An avid hiker, Noth regularly undertakes long-distance trails, including routes in Scotland, Spain, and Menorca.

Football fortune

PORTUGUESE football star Cristiano Ronaldo has recently celebrated two major milestones, becoming the first player in history to reach billionaire status, with a net worth estimated at €1.2 billion ($1.4 billion), and receiving the Prestige award at the Portugal Football Globes, which he hailed as a continuation of his lifetime achievements.

NETHERLANDS

Dutch treasures

AMERICAN billionaire Thomas Kaplan plans an IPO for his Rembrandt collection, aiming to let millions own a share of the world’s largest private Dutch Golden Age collection.

The Leiden Collection includes 17 Rembrandt works and pieces by Vermeer and Jan Steen.

Kaplan will remain majority owner and continue lending artworks to museums.

Royal opening

KING FELIPE VI and Queen Letizia of Spain opened Europalia España in Brussels, kicking off a four-month celebration of Spanish culture across Belgium. The festival features the central exhibition Luz y Sombra, Goya and Spanish Realism alongside over 100 events in visual arts, theatre, music, dance, and literature.

Amazon boost

AMAZON plans to invest €1 billion in Belgium by 2027 to improve customer experience, infrastructure, and logistics. The funding will support same-day deliveries, expand the Mechatronics department in Hamme, and provide enhanced tools for Amazon’s platform. Flemish officials hailed the investment as a boost for local technology.

Secret path

Wildlife warning

Credit: Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock

DENMARK’S wildlife and natural habitats are under threat, a new report from Aarhus University reveals. Several species, including grey seals, beavers, and dragonflies, now face ‘severely unfavourable conservation status’ due to pollution and climate change. Experts urge urgent action, including expanding national parks and protecting habitats.

Historic risk

DENMARK’S Frederiksborg Castle faces a looming threat to its Baroque gardens, home to 25,000 boxwood plants, from the invasive boxwood moth, as the pest has appeared in nearby sites. Castle gardener John Nørgaard has set up monitoring and natural predators to protect the historic plants, which are central to the garden’s design.

IRELAND

FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM NORWAY GERMANY

Fianna Fáil

JIM GAVIN, who withdrew from the Irish presidential race, will remain on the ballot paper. The Fianna Fáil candidate pulled out following reports he owed €3,300 to a former tenant. Postal votes had already been issued, so any votes for Gavin will still be counted and could influence the transfer of preferences to other candidates.

Band backlash

IRISH fans have expressed disappointment that Boyzone’s farewell tour will skip Ireland entirely. The Dublin-born band will perform exclusively at London’s Emirates Stadium on June 6, 2026. Long-time supporters say it is a ‘kick in the teeth’ after decades of fandom, with many unwilling or unable to travel abroad for the final show.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Temu tide

FINNISH customs is battling a surge of cheap parcels from Chinese shopping app Temu, with over 50 million expected to arrive this year - up from just 850,000 in 2022. Officials warn they cannot monitor every shipment or ensure VAT is paid. A citizens’ initiative backed by 50,000 Finns seeks curbs on ultra-fast fashion and low-quality imports.

Retail rampage

A PERSON caused a disturbance at a Lidl store in Oulu, before spraying shoppers with pepper spray, leaving at least four people affected. Police said the man, who did not have a permit for the OC gas sprayer, was arrested nearby and faces charges of assault, criminal damage and a minor firearms offence. The store was closed for cleaning.

Fossil fakes

RADIO hosts David Druid and Linnéa Wikblad on Morgonpasset revealed that the dinosaur skeletons at Stockholm’s Natural History Museum are replicas, surprising many listeners. Real dinosaur bones are rare and expensive, so many museums use reconstructions. Experts say clearer signs are needed to avoid misleading visitors.

Campaign cancelled

META’S new EU rules on political and ‘social issue’ advertising have halted the Swedish Cancer Society’s mammography campaign on Facebook. The ad, urging women to attend screenings, reached hundreds of thousands. Henrik Lysell, The Cancer Foundation’s unit manager, warns vital health information may not reach people.

THE Commodus Passage, the secret corridor that allowed Roman emperors to access the Colosseum’s Imperial box unseen, has opened to the public for the first time following a major restoration. Accessibility improvements include a retractable staircase and tactile maps, allowing small guided groups to explore this historic route.

Paws parade

ROME hosted its sixth annual dog parade on October 11, with the aim of encouraging the adoption of shelter dogs. The event featured 22 dogs from the city’s municipal kennels. Attendees enjoyed demonstrations, photo opportunities, and information on pet care, while the dogs were given a day out and a chance to meet potential adopters.

Helping hands

VOLUNTEERS from Norway are sending hundreds of wheelchairs, crutches and other aids to Ukraine to help war-injured civilians and soldiers. According to the WHO, more than 100,000 people in Ukraine have suffered amputations due to the war. The equipment, collected through Medvind Assistance, would otherwise have been discarded.

Harsh measures

LÅGEN YOUTH HOME, a shelter in Kongsberg, faces sharp criticism after a state report found serious violations of children’s rights. The institution, housing 13-18-yearolds, reportedly used collective punishment, excessive force, and restricted freedoms, including food and phone access. Employees say it resembles a prison more than a home.

Star strut

PARIS Fashion Week drew a host of celebrities, including Emma Watson, who sparked engagement rumours as she was photographed wearing a sparkling ring on her wedding finger. Many other stars such as Nicole Kidman, Margot Robbie, and Naomi Campbell also attended, enjoying shows from top designers including Chanel, Miu Miu, and Thom Browne.

Clothing controversy

PARIS’ 8th arrondissement mayor, Jeanne d’Hauteserre, has announced she will repay nearly €35,780 spent on clothing with public funds. The politician faced public backlash after a TV interview in which she thanked taxpayers and admitted she used her allowance to stay ‘well-dressed’. She said the expenses were legal but controversial.

Days in cuckoo land

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I DUNNO, it really does appear that in this day and age you can pick up any old rock and discover some ‘o ended’ creep skulking under there somewhere. This was a real humdinger. The left wing (natch!) National Union of Students, have decided that public handclapping, whooping and cheering should be banned as they consider it ‘o ensive to deaf people’!

You really couldn’t make it up. Do these young numbskulls ever do any actual studying? Do they ever get their heads down and use their free libraries and state nanced education establishments (which many a third world student would give their eye teeth for) to create a little brain power?

Or are their days spent in cuckoo land, dreaming up any lunatic scheme or idea, merely to give themselves an excuse for existing? Apparently, their alternative suggestion to applause, is the use of ‘Jazz Hands.’ This entails raising the arms and enthusiastically wa-

ggling the hands and ngers. (Think Black and White Minstrel Show.) ‘Er, hold on a minute, no noise? Wouldn’t that be o ensive to blind people?

You see, all this PC and ‘o ended’ clap trap actually has no end. It simply goes on and on. I may be o ended by deaf people communicating by sign language because it doesn’t include me! Or upset because any reference to pigs have been excluded from my school books, (yep!). There are billions of people on earth; whatever your opinions you’re bound to o end someone. Did you know that some people are o ended by the use of the expression ‘rule of thumb?’ This is because the thumb was originally introduced to measure the thickness of the stick you could use to beat the wife!

Just to get back brie y to the student ‘clapping’ opposition, I think I’ve solved it. Passing wind would take care of it. An appreciative audience, in a communal coordinated gas release, would satisfy everyone. Deaf, blind, dumb, physically impaired. All would bene t. There’s one for your pathetic student union to contemplate.

Just last week I heard of a whole new

TOPTrending

batch of non-acceptable descriptive phrases. It’s now considered o ensive (by the BBC) to call someone ‘curly’, ‘hon’, ‘sweetheart or ‘babe’. It’s also considered bad form to remark on someone’s accent! Another condemned behaviour is ‘interrupting somebody else at work’. One employee commented it was rather like ‘walking on eggshells’. Apparently, all this utter time-wasting balderdash is now being addressed as ‘microaggression’

Well, quite frankly I personally think that all these misguided cretins have completely lost the plot. Frankly the idea of attending a meeting throwing around this utter intelligence crushing baloney almost de es the imagination. I’ll leave all our young timewasters with a motif for their new t-shirts.

I’m o ended

That you’re o ended

By me taking o ence

At your o ensive o ensiveness!

Alright

Thanks for your mail, I do read ‘em all. Stay safe and well and whatever ya do - always Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com.

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Unknown Number: High School Catfish

THIS documentary follows a teenage girl and her boyfriend as they face relentless harassment from an unknown caller. When the police are called to investigate, they discover a shocking truth. This documentary has been Net ix’s talk of the town for the month and a half that it’s been out, and with good reason. With an unnerving small-town atmosphere, and a reveal that leaves viewers’ mouths agape, Unknown Number reminds us just how compelling Net ix documentaries can be. Direc-

Blue Lights

BLUE LIGHTS: Season 3, currently airing on BBC One, builds on and evolves the Belfast-based cop comfort show that viewers have come to love. Acclaimed for its talented cast and charming tone, the series has quickly become a fan favourite among UK viewers. However, with the growing prominence of background characters, the show struggles to juggle its screentime. Additionally, Blue Lights no longer feels as high-stakes as the first two seasons did. Whether the final episode, set to air in November, will blow us away is still to be determined.

Fines spark dispute

IN November 2024, Spain’s Ministry of Consumer A airs ned ve budget airlines, Ryanair, Vueling, easyJet, Norwegian, and Volotea, a combined total of nearly €180 million for what it described as abusive commercial practices.

The ministry argued that extra charges for hand luggage, seat reservations for passengers with dependents, printed boarding passes, and misleading pricing violated Spanish consumer protection laws. Ryanair received the largest penalty at €108 million. Alongside the nes, Spain banned charges for hand luggage and seat reservations and required airlines to accept cash payments at airports.

The airlines have strongly contested the sanctions, claiming they breach EU rules guaranteeing airlines the freedom to set their own pricing structures. Ryanair and others labelled the nes illegal and warned they could undermine the low-cost model and lead to higher ticket prices.

The European Commission has since intervened, issuing Spain a formal notice for potentially violating EU law. Brussels maintains that while reasonable-sized hand luggage should be free, any additional charges remain at the airline’s discretion. Spain now has two months to respond or face possible referral to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Consumer groups across Europe have backed Spain’s stance, while airlines welcome the EU’s defence of pricing freedom.

Barcelona tops worklist

BARCELONA has been named one of the world’s top five destinations for a ‘work holiday’, combining remote work with travel. The International Workplace Group (IWG) ranked the Catalan capital fifth in its Work From Anywhere Barometer, behind global hotspots such as Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, Budapest and Seoul.

The report analysed 40 cities worldwide, assessing factors crucial to remote work, including internet speed, cost of living, transport, accommodation, resident happiness and overall holiday appeal.

Barcelona scored highly for its infrastructure, including high-speed internet, coworking spaces and cafés, alongside lifestyle factors such as its beaches, Mediterranean climate and gastronomy. The city ranked above European rivals Rome and Paris.

INTERVIEW

Spain legalises cannabis

SPAIN has taken a histo ric step by approving the medical use of cannabis, but under one of Europe’s strictest frameworks.

Spain’s growing reputation as a hub for remote work has been boosted by its holiday-friendly destinations, from the Balearic Islands to the Costa Blanca, and the introduction of a digital nomad visa. These developments have made the country increasingly attractive and accessible to the global remote workforce, particularly from

other European nations. For digital nomads, Barcelona offers a blend of productivity and leisure, cementing its position as a leading work holiday destination. Its combination of professional infrastructure and lifestyle appeal ensures it remains one of the most desirable cities for those looking to work while exploring a new country.

Speaking European: Orla from Ireland

Originally from Garristown, a small Irish village, Orla Tierney captivates audiences with soulful performances on the Costa del Sol.

HOW did your singing career begin?

My sister Siobhan and I performed as a duo in Ireland. After her holidays in Benalmadena, we decided to test the gig scene while on holiday. We got bookings, excelled, and pondered a move. In Dublin I endured 15 unfulfilling years in the health service - good pay, but not my dream of music.

What brought you to Spain?

“A school guidance teacher once laughed when I said I wanted to be a pop star - it was true!” Siobhan relocated in 2004; “I visited often. In 2005, I quit my job for full-time singing, after 20 years, I’m regret-free. After 12 years in Benalmadena, I sought authenticity, moving to Alhaurin el Grande with

Spanish neighbours, I love it!”

What frustrates you about Spain?

“Nothing frustrating about Andalucia springs to mind. Last summers have scorched unbearably, with gig parking nightmares. I love Spanish life: embrace the ‘mañana’ ethos, go with the flow, and let go of stresswhat’s the point otherwise?

Will you ever return to life in Ireland?

Never say never to returning to Ireland, but after 20 years, it’s hard to leave full-time singing for the 9-5 grind.

Sunnier climate seals it! Homesickness grows with age - maybe when my voice croaks, que sera sera!

The new Royal Decree, approved by the Council of Ministers on October 7, permits cannabis-based treatments solely for medical purposes and only under hospital supervision. The reform targets patients with chronic or treatment-resistant conditions, including severe epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Under the rules, only hospital specialists may prescribe cannabis medicines, which will be prepared and dispensed exclusively by hospital pharmacies. Treatments must use standardised, registered preparations approved by the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), meeting strict quality, dosage, and safety standards. Over-the-

counter sales and use in regular pharmacies remain prohibited. Spain’s approach contrasts with other European countries that have more open systems. Every stagefrom prescription and formulation to patient monitoring - will take place within hospitals. Each case must be justified and documented, with progress reports submitted to ensure effectiveness and safety. AEMPS will maintain a national registry of authorised products, tracking THC and CBD levels and ensuring compliance with international narcotics laws. The Ministry of Health emphasises that this is not a step towards recreational use but a move towards personalised, evidence-based medicine. Remote dispensing systems may be set up in rural areas to guarantee nationwide access, with official prescribing guidelines expected within three months.

Spanish chapel gets last-minute miracle!

erosion and the occasional superstitious vandal.

There’s even a theory that knights once rode in to receive blessings - waistdeep in holy water.

IN a hollow near the city of Cáceres in Extremadura, south-west Spain, where shepherds once sheltered from storms and scratched out from the frescoes the eyes of saints (for being too watchful!), a centuries-old Spanish chapel may finally be saved from sinking - literally and figuratively.

The Ermita de San Jorge, a semi-subterranean gem thought to date back to the 14th century, has long suffered from neglect, floods and a curious lack of fame, despite being vividly decorated by painter Juan de Ribera in 1565. His frescoes - once brimming with biblical scenes and bold putti - have been steadily fading, thanks to rainwater,

After years of pleas, the Extremaduran government has finally stepped in, spending €50,000 on emergency works and pledging another €385,000 to save both chapel and art. Culture Minister Victoria Bazaga called the chapel ‘emblematic’ and key to the region’s identity. Talking of numbers, a message for another reader who has got ALL 12 of my audiobooks: if you enjoyed those, the 13th - The Girl across the Lake - is now available on Audible, plus my latest novel - The House of Secrets - has just been published too! Happy reading!

Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Luxury car heists

GUARDIA CIVIL, in collaboration with the Italian Carabinieri, has dismantled an international criminal organisation that specialised in the theft and forgery of luxury vehicles in Italy and Spain. These high-end cars were then transported to Belgium for sale in the United Arab Emirates.

The investigation, which began in October 2024 and was coordinated through Europol, led to nine arrests in Italy. The criminal network is accused of stealing and forging 90 vehicles, valued at over €18 million, and laundering more than €2.5 million using a complex cryptocurrency network.

In Spain’s Costa del Sol, gang members would first identify and install geolocation devices on exclusive vehicles in public spaces or car parks.

Stolen vehicles were taken to a warehouse in Malaga’s Axarquia region. Here, the perpetrators altered identifying features like licence plates and chassis numbers.

Axarquia Gold at Beer Awards

LA AXARCA, a collaborative beer between Spain’s La Domadora y el Leon and Brazil’s Brotas Beer, has just won a prestigious gold medal in the Session category at the World Beer Awards 2025. Their tropical pale ale was also crowned the best in its style among all beers entered from Brazil, a major achievement for the cross-continental partnership.

The collaboration began in February 2025 when Javier Leon and Charo Barco, the driving forces behind La Domadora y el Leon, travelled from Frigiliana to Brotas, near São Paulo, Brazil. There, they joined forces with Brotas Beer’s master brewer, Marcio Egea, whose grandmother was from Frigiliana, which added a cultural link to the project. Together, they crafted a Brazilian version of La Domadora y el Leon craft brewery dedicated to producing and distributing high-quality artisanal beers from Frigiliana. Winning the gold medal goes to show the brewery’s growing influence despite its location off the beaten track.

Costa Blanca North Life returns to normal

AFTER several days of torrential rain and weather alerts across the Comunitat Valenciana, life is gradually returning to normal in the Costa Blanca. The AEMET orange alert that remained active throughout Marina Alta prompted both Denia and Javea to take extra precautions.

In Javea, afternoon classes and sports activities were suspended, while in Denia, educational and outdoor events were cancelled. Authorities also closed parks, cemeteries and the castle, and restricted access to flood-prone areas.

David Curtis, a Denia resident who works in Javea, told Euro Weekly News: “It’s been difficult, but the emergency warnings arrived on time this time.” He praised the authorities’ swift action, saying it provided reassurance and urged residents to stay home during emergencies.

Despite images of fallen trees and flooding, particularly in Gandia, emergency teams acted quickly to prevent damage.

Costa Blanca South Community goes pink

COMMUNITIES across the province of Alicante are joining forces this October to mark World Breast Cancer Day with a series of charity walks and events aimed at raising awareness and supporting those affected by the disease. Organised by the local boards of the Alicante Association for the Fight Against Cancer (AACC), these initiatives combine fundraising, advocacy, and community solidarity. On October 19, towns across the province of Alicante will host a variety of marches. Other towns are hosting similar events tailored to their communities throughout the province. In Tibi, the march will start from Plaza Glorieta. Torrevieja will welcome participants from Paseo Juan Aparicio. Meanwhile, Sax, Pinoso, San Vicente del Raspeig, Redován, Daya Nueva, and Agost will hold marches offering t-shirts, refreshments, and various activities such as Zumba classes.

Almeria Rock takes over

ROCKERS of Albox are gearing up for what is surely going to be the biggest live music event in the municipality of the autumn season: Rock Albox, which this year will celebrate its 40th anniversary, is poised for its biggest year ever at the Albox Fairgrounds. Set to light up the stage on Saturday, October 18, the vast majority of the tickets had already sold out with more than a week left until the event, showcasing the municipality’s buzzing excitement for the show. Rock Albox is one of Spain’s longest-running rock festivals. For decades, the event has hosted local and national music legends, and this year will see an equally impressive lineup: headliner Evaristo Páramos will take the stage during his tour, alongside talented bands including Kaotiko, Puraposse, and Albox band Chamarreta. With this special and monumental edition of Rock Albox, the municipality continues to strengthen its relationship with the rock genre as it gets ready to rock n’ roll.

Costa Calida AECC recognised

LOS ALCAZARES has honoured the town’s branch of the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) with the prestigious Al-Kázar Award 2025, the town’s highest recognition. The award celebrates decades of dedication to supporting cancer patients and their families.

Since its founding in 1966, the local AECC branch has helped thousands of people through counselling, social support programmes, awareness campaigns, fundraising for research, and community activities. Their tireless work has become a cornerstone of the town, reflecting the values of solidarity, unity, and hope.

The award ceremony, held on October 13 as part of the town celebrations, also included Special Mentions to past presidents and leaders of the local AECC, recognising almost 60 years of continuous service. Attendees praised the organisation for both its practical support and the sense of comfort and belonging it gives to families.

PETS

Haggis loves her house-sitters

REMEMBER Haggis? Our feline celebrity from earlier this year made waves as one of HouseSitMatch’s oldest pets. Plot twist: at 19 years young, this kitchen queen is still stealing hearts and holding court by the food bowl. She’s got three cat siblings who are equally obsessed with their house-sitters. The verdict from their owners? Having sitters move in beats boarding hands down - it’s easier on the wallet AND the cats get to rule their own kingdom. Win-win. Need pet-sitters in 2026? Join today!

Fair exchange

Remember that house-sitters move in to care for your pets and home for free. In exchange you offer free accommodation and perhaps a welcome meal.

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Lamia Walker - Founder

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How do you join?

the care she takes with background checks, her quick responses and excellent guidance.

I’ve now had four couples in my home to look after my animals and each one has been a fantastic fit. They are all genuine animal lovers, curious travellers, respectful homeowners and great communicators.

With some, their glowing reviews tell the story, so there’s nothing left for me to ask. With others, we start talking about world travels and by the time they arrive, it feels like an old friend has come to stay. I think it comes down to Lamia’s personal attention with both pet-sitter and homeowner, and the fact that no one is reduced to a number as can happen with huge sites.

Here, each ‘match’ is truly a match between homeowners and pet/travel lovers. I’m tremendously happy I found HouseSitMatch and would recommend without hesitation.

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Register online via our website Housesitmatch.com

AS the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, cats naturally seek warmth and comfort. Autumn is the perfect time to create a cosy nook that caters to your feline friend’s instincts, keeping them happy and healthy throughout the season.

Start by choosing a quiet corner of your home, away from drafts and heavy foot traffic. Add a soft, plush bed or a thick blanket; cats love layers they can burrow into. Elevated spaces, such as shelves or window perches, offer a sense of security while allowing your cat to watch the outside world - a pastime many felines adore in the autumn months.

Consider adding gentle lighting, like a low-wattage lamp, to create warmth and a soothing atmosphere.

Seasonal touches, such as a small pumpkin or a leaf-patterned cushion, can make the space visually appealing, but avoid anything small enough to be swallowed.

Finally, include a few favourite toys and a scratching post nearby. This encourages activity and mental stimulation, ensuring your cat remains engaged while enjoying their snug retreat.

Cosy cats

Healing paws

FOR many people, pets are more than companions - they are a source of comfort, routine, and emotional support. Research increasingly shows that interacting with cats, dogs, and other animals can have a tangible impact on mental health.

Spending time with pets can reduce stress and anxiety. Stroking a cat or dog triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and relaxation, while lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Regular walks with a dog also promote physical activity, fresh air, and expo-

sure to natural light, all of which contribute to improved mood and well-being. Pets provide a sense of purpose and routine, which is particularly beneficial for those experiencing depression or loneliness. Feeding, grooming, and caring for an animal creates structure in daily life and encourages social interaction, whether with fellow pet owners or through community events. Moreover, pets offer unconditional companionship. Their presence can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide comfort during difficult times.

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Dacia spring improvements

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

BUDGET brand Dacia has improved on its all-electric Spring model to make it even more attractive to those wanting an affordable route into electric driving. The series of updates include two, new, more powerful motors that offer stronger performance along with changes to the chassis.

Since its launch in 2021, Spring has sold more than 179,000 units in Europe (up to June 2025). This year it has sold 17,000 vehicles, securing second place in the European market for electric. In terms of ride and handling the car gains an anti-roll bar for the first time, standard on all versions. This improves the car’s stability in corners and is further enhanced by the adoption of new settings for the shock absorbers and suspension springs.

100hp in just 6.9 seconds.

These new powertrains work with a new 24.3 kWh battery, which uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) technology for the first time in the Renault Group, which owns Dacia, and being the lightest four-seater electric car on the market, weighing in at around one tonne, even with its many optimised features. Its light weight contributes to delivering a range that.

improve-

ments on the Spring include a set of fairings at the front, sides and rear, designed to reduce aerodynamic turbulence under the car, and a new spoiler limits turbulence around the upper part of the rear tailgate. This has seen a tangible benefit for Spring’s range, resulting in a significant improvement.

Salamanca radar fines

SPAIN’S traffic authority has introduced an unusual new radar system in Salamanca that doesn’t just measure your speed but times how long it takes you to drive through a roundabout. On the SA-20, near the E Leclerc hypermarket, a section radar covers 416 metres with a 50 km/h speed limit. To stay within the law, drivers must take at least 33 seconds to complete the roundabout. Anyone quicker is flagged for speeding. The Dirección General de Trá-

fico (DGT), led by Pere Navarro, has made road safety a top priority for 2025. Among 122 new control points added this year, 17 began operating in March, including nine fixed and eight section radars.

The Salamanca installation, one of the most controversial, targets one of the most common causes of accidents: entering, exiting or changing lanes too fast inside roundabouts. With 20,000 vehicles passing through daily, the radar quickly

became a hot spot for infractions.

After an adjustment period in April, fines started arriving in May. Authorities reported an average of 19 penalties per day in the first month, climbing to 25 by May. Many offenders were clocked at closer to 70 km/h, well above the 50 km/h limit, endangering both merging traffic and pedestrians.

Officials say the system has already proved effective in curbing reckless behaviour.

Two new hp/52 kW kW, replace the previous 45 hp/33 kW and 65 hp/48 kW units. These offer more power and torque between 50 and 75 mph (up to +20 per cent) and makes the car that bit more driveable and relaxed in non-urban traffic. The benchmark 100kph/62mph acceleration benchmark is now significantly reduced with the new 70hp power unit taking a whisker over 10 seconds and the more powerful

The new 70 hp powertrain is available with the Expression trim, while the new 100 hp powertrain is available in the Extreme model. All Spring models feature a customisable seven-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. Offering a 10.1-inch central touchscreen and wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, the Media Display system is standard with the Extreme trim. Spring Extreme is also available with Media Nav providing connected navigation for a period of eight years, with real-time traffic conditions and continuously updated European maps. Pricing will be announced nearer the launch date early next year.

Trashing the triangles

FOR a little over two years now, Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic, or DGT, has been alerting drivers to an upcoming important change for the country’s road safety: the new V16 beacons.

Now, the deadline looms, as the beacons will become mandatory in just over three months, from January 1, 2026. From this date, the V16 beacons will permanently replace traditional reflective warning triangles for cars. The beacons are small devices meant to be attached to the roof of the car, aiming to reduce road incidents through a powerful light that is visible from up to one kilometre away and from 360 degrees around the vehicle. This will make it easier for other drivers to see vehicles in low-light conditions, as well as detect a broken down or crashed vehicle on the roads. In addition, the beacons use real-time geolocation technology.

It’s important to note that the DGT will only recognise certain V16 lights that comply with all their regulations, which are as follows:

• The beacon must be approved by the DGT.

• The beacon must have IoT connectivity to link with the DGT 3.0 pla-

tform.

• The beacon must be able to send the vehicle’s location anonymously and automatically to emergency services and other drivers.

One of the most recommended models of the beacon is the Help Flash IoT+, an upgraded version of its predecessor.

The Help Flash IoT+ has better visibility and connectivity. The DGT also has a full list of the pre-approved models on their website to help drivers choose.

THE inaugural Vanda Pharmaceuticals Mallorca Women’s Championships presented by Ecotrans Group (WTA 125) concluded in Santa Ponça on Sunday October 12 with Argentina’s Solana Sierra claiming the title after defeating Serbia’s Lola Radivojevic 6–3, 6–1.

A morning of torrential rain and strong winds delayed play, but the weather cleared for an exciting afternoon final at the Mallorca Country Club, where an energetic crowd - including many Argentine fans - watched Sierra dominate. The match was briefly halted early in the first set with Sierra leading 4-2 before resuming under sunny skies.

Sierra, ranked No. 86 in the WTA rankings, controlled proceedings with a powerful backhand, consistent serving, and aggressive baseline play. Radivojevic, ranked No. 173, showed resilience

but was unable to match Sierra’s intensity.

Sierra’s victory was celebrated with an emotional trophy ceremony on Centre Court. The champion received her trophy from Argentine legend and tournament ambassador Gabriela Sabatini, alongside Marco Taboas, Managing Director of the Fundació Turisme Responsable de Mallorca. Radivojevic was presented with her runner-up award by Edwin Weindorfer, CEO of e|motion group, and Javier Tascón, deputy mayor of Calvia.

An emotional Sierra thanked her team and praised the tournament’s atmosphere, describing Sabatini’s presence as ‘a great source of inspiration’.

The championship marks a successful debut for the event, which has been praised for its organisation, atmosphere, and setting.

Iconic triathlon begins

PEGUERA is gearing up for a spectacular return of endurance sport this autumn as Challenge Peguera Mallorca 2025 takes over from October 15-19, culminating in the main middle-distance triathlon on October 18.

Set in the heart of Calvia, with Torà Beach as its stunning aquatic stage, the event has become a highlight on the European triathlon calendar. Under the Challenge Family banner, athletes will tackle a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycle, and 21.1 km run - the classic half-distance format that draws both elite competitors and ambitious newcomers.

The week-long festival included school outreach programmes on Wednesday, a Zumba masterclass, ‘Nit de Foc’ parade and concert on Thursday, and press conferences, athlete briefings and the Challenge Women 4K run on Friday. Saturday hosts

the main event, followed by award ceremonies and a closing party, while Sunday rounds off with a Junior Aquathlon celebrating young athletes. With pros and local enthusiasts all taking part - plus a relay option for teams - Peguera promises another unforgettable celebration of sport, community, and coastal

energy. With its blend of athletic challenge, festival atmosphere and Mediterranean charm, Challenge Peguera Mallorca 2025 is shaping up to be a mustsee (or must-do) event. Whether you’re racing or cheering, mark your calendar for mid-October - Peguera will be alive with the unforgettable spirit of triathlon.

Women’s tennis finals Marathon preparations

THE TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca 2025 is set to take place on Sunday October 19, drawing thousands of runners from around the world to the island’s capital. Celebrated for its stunning seaside views and vibrant atmosphere, the event has become one of Mallorca’s major sporting highlights, blending endurance, tourism, and community spirit.

The race weekend kicks off on October 17, with the opening of the Palma Marathon Expo and race number collection at Parc de la Mar, situated at the foot of Palma Cathedral. Runners can collect their bibs on both Friday and Saturday, where sponsors and local brands will also showcase sports equipment, nutrition products, and lifestyle offerings. A popular feature, the Pasta Party, takes

place on Saturday evening, allowing participants to fuel up before race day.

Coinciding with the event, Transcend, Mallorca’s first dedicated sports recovery centre based in Santa Catalina, has announced a post-marathon recovery package running from October 19-26. The programme combines contrast therapy (fire & ice), red light recovery, and compression therapy to reduce inflammation and speed muscle recovery. Founder Nicole Santos said the initiative aims to “support the local running community and promote science-led recovery practices.” With thousands expected along Palma’s scenic route, the marathon continues to showcase Mallorca as a premier destination for endurance sports and wellness.