Dep. Legal A PM 42-2025 - 140 - 2004 - ISSN - ISSN 3015-1309 2488-1686
Mallorca • No. 2112 • 25 - 31 Dec 2025
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ILMAINEN
GRATIS
GRATIS
GRATIS
VRIJ
FREI
GRATUITO
The Christmas many people don’t talk about When the season of joy becomes the loneliest time of the year
CHRISTMAS arrives each year wrapped in expectation - lights in the streets, full tables, busy homes and well-worn traditions. It is spoken of as a season of joy and merriment, when families gather and the world feels warmer. Yet for many, Christmas feels anything but joyful. For some people, this will be their first Christmas without a child. a partner, a business, a home, or the stability that once anchored their lives. The absence is not subtle. It is loud. Loneliness at Christmas is not simply about being alone. It is about feeling displaced. It is about disorientation, fear and grief quietly co-existing beneath the noise of celebration. This is why the festive season can become a time when people feel invisible. The unspoken thought - what is the point? - can creep in, unnoticed by those who are surrounded by noise and company. And yet, meaning at Christmas has never truly come from excess. It does
the world around them. Sometimes, the greatest gift is not something wrapped, but the reassurance that someone belongs. As this Christmas unfolds, wherever it finds you, we hope it brings warmth, meaning and moments worth holding onto.
n o t live in overflowing fridges, or tables groaning under food that will never be eaten. Around us there are people who are hungry - who would welcome what we so easily discard. The true value of Christmas has always been human connection, found in moments of inclusion, kindness, and in making space for someone who might otherwise feel forgotten. Christmas has the power to remind people that they matter - that they are seen, valued and still a part of
Merry Christmas, Michel & Steven and everyone at the Euro Weekly News family
GGRATIS
LIVRE
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GRATIS
GRATUIT G
D DARMOWY
Santa on duty SANTA CLAUS and Mrs Claus recently brought festive cheer to Palma’s Police Headquarters, delighting dozens of children. Leaving their sleigh behind at the North Pole, the beloved couple made a memorable arrival in a police patrol car at 11am, escorted by officers and warmly welcomed by Police Chief José Luis Santafé alongside several commissioners. The Unified Police Union (SUP) invited Santa and Mrs Claus to the Police Headquarters for the fourth time, allowing them to bring forward their official visit to homes around the world, and spread festive cheer to local children. Excited youngsters handed over their letters, and received some early Christmas gifts. Children received miniature police cars, helicopters and trucks, along with colouring books, paints, pens and special children’s police ID cards. The event was made even more special as several officers attended with their own children, creating a joyful family atmosphere filled with smiles, laughter and Christmas spirit.
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25 - 31 December 2025
LOCAL NEWS
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Engines start as the route winds through Palma.
THE Son Castelló industrial estate was awash with red once again as the traditional Santa Claus Motorbike Route got under way, organised by Bribones Bikers. Early on Saturday December 20, around one hundred motorcycles and close to two hundred participants dressed as Father and Mother Christmas gathered outside the Forn de Campos bakery, greeting friends, taking photos and waiting for the start of this festive ride. Attention to detail brou-
ght Christmas to life on two wheels, with riders in full Santa outfits and motorcycles decorated with ornaments, gift boxes and imaginative reindeer figures mounted proudly on fairings. The appearance of the Grinch added a playful note without dampening the cheerful and good-humoured atmosphere. With grey skies threatening rain but holding off, engines roared into life at around 10.00am as the convoy wound its way
through Palma. Smiles, waves and applause followed the colourful procession, especially near Son Espases and Son Llàtzer hospitals, where patients, staff and visitors enjoyed a festive distraction. Leaving the city, the route passed through Marratxí, Santa Maria, Consell, Binissalem, Lloseta, Inca, Sineu and Petra. The day ended with a shared meal in Petra, closing another successful edition of a much-loved Christmas tradition.
THE Classic Car Club Mallorca recently held its annual Christmas Drinks and Tapas event at the Bendinat Urban Country Club. Despite a slightly smaller turnout of 40 members compared to last year’s 55, the morning was filled with warmth, conversation, and laughter. The event kicked Classic Car Club Mallorca Christmas Drinks and Tapas Event off at 10.30am and 2025. was due to end at 1.30pm, but guests lingered until 2.30pm, enjoying the bri- event in Pollensa the following day. ght sunshine and temperatures in the Guests generously donated €850 dulow 20s Celsius. Members sampled a ring the event and online, a sum matwide selection of tapas and drinks pro- ched by the Car Club to reach a total of vided free of charge by the club, which €1,700. This contribution underlined drew praise for its variety and quality. the club’s commitment to making a tanThe gathering also carried a charitable gible difference in the local community. focus. Representatives from the Allan The Christmas Drinks and Tapas Graham children’s charity, including Ro- event offered members a chance to resemary Graham and Denise, explained lax, reconnect, and celebrate the year’s the organisation’s mission to support achievements, while supporting a worchildren in care homes. Club member thy cause. With sunshine, good food, Charles Nutter encouraged attendees and friendly company, the gathering to bring their classic cars to a children’s was a memorable occasion for all. Credit: CCC Mallorca
Credit: Bribones Bikers
Santa riders delight Friendship and charity
€1.8 million to Mallorca thanks to Álvaro MALLORCA has shared around €2.3 million from Spain’s Christmas Lottery, with €1.8 million reaching Inca, Palma,
Campos and other towns thanks to the charitable initiative La Fuerza de Álvaro. The winning number,
25412, matches the birth date of Álvaro, a 13-yearold from Mallorca who lives with laminopathy, a rare disease that causes degenerative muscular dystrophy. His mother, Elvira Rosselló, buys the number every year, and this time it became one of the fifth prizes after being sold in full at a lottery office in Malaga. Rosselló bought 300 décimos, selling them with a €3 donation in aid of the Andrés Marcio Foundation, which supports families affected by the condition. Teachers and parents from a school in Inca, hospital staff, and residents from Campos and Palma all took part, spreading the prize across the island. Each winning décimo is worth €6,000, combining financial reward with solidarity.
NEWS
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25 - 31 December 2025
Rents under check Tenant rights strong
THOUSANDS of tenants in Spain facing contract renewals in 2026 may have more control over rent increases than they realise. Over 632,000 rental contracts are set to expire next year, affecting around 1.6 million people. Government data suggests average renewals could add €1,735 a year, with figures exceeding €4,600 in high-pressure markets such as the Balearic Islands. Madrid, Catalonia, Andalucia, and the Valencian Community will see the largest number of contracts ending, raising concerns in already tight rental markets. Spanish law sets clear limits on rent rises. Under the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (LAU), landlords must respect strict conditions and provide at least 30 days’ notice. Missing this deadline allows tenants to refuse the increase and continue paying the existing rent until a valid agreement is reached. Increases are only permitted in specific situations. Annual updates apply if stated in the contract. For agreements signed before May 26, 2023,
rises follow the Consumer Price Index (IPC); for those after, the Housing Lease Reference Index (IRAV) applies. Rents may also change at the end of the mandatory rental period - five years for private landlords, seven for companies - or after agreed improvements or voluntary renegotiation. With rents up more than 34 per cent since 2020 and over a third of tenants spending more than 30 per cent of income on housing, experts advise checking contract dates carefully. Many tenants have more leverage than they realise, and rent hikes are not automatic. Credit : Ink Drop, Shutterstock
Rent pressures continue to climb as lease renewals approach in Spain.
Digital money watch Tax transparency rise ses. Previously, reporting was limited; the new monthly system represents a major expansion of oversight. The measure affects not only businesses and self-employed workers but also private individuals receiving money digitally. Payments for tutoring, home services, or small
Credit : Lek_charoen, Shutterstock
FROM January, Spain will require banks and digital payment platforms to report all incoming electronic payments to Hacienda every month, regardless of amount. Whether €5 or €5,000, card payments, Bizum transfers, and similar methods will now be logged for tax purpo-
Spain tightens control over digital card payments from January.
side activities that once went unnoticed may now be visible to tax authorities. Officials say it closes loopholes and combats undeclared income. Tax advisers warn the pressure on households is rising amid high living costs and administrative burdens. Freelancers and small traders, in particular, may face extra paperwork, closer inspections, and harsher penalties for minor errors. Keeping meticulous records to match digital payments with declared income will become essential. Hacienda will also access annual card-spending summaries for anyone whose transactions exceed €25,000, allowing investigators to spot potential mismatches between lifestyle and reported earnings. Spain is entering an era where digital money is largely transparent to tax authorities. From January, maintaining detailed invoices and separating personal and professional transfers will be crucial, as every card tap leaves a permanent trail.
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Holiday delivery notice Please note that due to the upcoming holiday, our next edition of the newspaper will be delivered on Wednesday, December 31.
Consumer rights boost Stricter service rules
SPAIN’S Congress has given final approval to a groundbreaking Customer Service Law aimed at protecting consumers from abusive practices by large companies. Passed in the last plenary session before the Christmas break, the law sets stricter standards for customer service in essential sectors. It applies to providers of water, electricity, gas, telecommunications, banking, and transport services, as well as any company with more than 250 employees or annual turnover over €50 million. To combat spam calls, companies must use specific prefixes for marketing calls, separate from customer service lines. Telecom operators will block non-compliant calls, with exemptions for small providers (under 5 per cent market share) in electricity, gas, and telephony. Customers gain the right to speak with a real person rather than automated systems. Companies must resolve 95 per cent of calls within an average of three minutes. The law bans hidden fees, ensuring the quoted price matches the final bill. For auto-renewing subscriptions, firms must provide at least 15 days’ notice and enable easy cancellation. Phone contracts initiated by unsolicited calls are invalid unless explicitly confirmed by the customer. Regional authorities will enforce the law, imposing fines up to 5 per cent of annual revenue. Companies must conduct annual service quality audits and publish results online. The law will be published in the Official State Gazette soon and take effect in early 2026.
Tax refund secret Boost visitor savings
NEW ABTA research shows half of UK adults don’t know they can claim back VAT on EU purchases - and only 13 per cent have ever done it. Since Brexit, UK passport holders are officially non-EU residents, which means one big perk: tax-free shopping. When your UK visitors shop in Spain, they can claim back up to 21 per cent on eligible items - as long as they follow the correct steps before leaving. In Spain, shoppers must spend at least €90.15 in one store to qualify. With a refund rate of 21 per cent, a €500 designer purchase in Palma could return more than €100. How to claim in Spain: Ask if the store offers tax-free shopping. Show a non-EU passport at checkout. Complete the tax-free form and keep the receipt. Validate the form before departing the EU at a customs desk or DIVA kiosk. Choose a refund method - card or cash. Refunds don’t apply to things consumed in-country, like meals or hotel stays. But for clothes, electronics, jewellery and homeware, it’s easy money back.
Team Euroweekly wishes you a very Merry Christmas
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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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25 - 31 December 2025
LOCAL NEWS
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THE Port Authority of the Balearic Islands (APB) has launched the tender for Palma Port’s Master Plan, a €240 million project set to transform the port between 2026 and 2035. Covering 400,000 square metres, the plan follows extensive consultation with over 60 economic, social, institutional and community stakeholders and aims to modernise operations while integrating the port with the city. The redevelopment focuses on four strategic areas. Cargo and passenger traffic will be diversified to improve efficiency and synchronise with the islands’ logistics network. Palma Port handles around 18 million tonnes of cargo and seven million passengers annually, with operations concentrated at the West Dock, Poniente Quay and Commercial Quays. The nautical industry will be centralised at the West Dock, supporting 800 companies, generating €1.1 billion in turnover and employing around 5,000 people. Cruise activity will be streamlined at Poniente Quay, enhancing the experience for tourists and residents.
Credit: A. Savin / Creative Commons
port begins
Nautical industry at the heart of the plan. Public spaces will expand across the Commercial Quays, the Old Quay and Contramuelle-Mollet, including green areas and recreational facilities. Educational and innovation hubs, such as the new SOCIB headquarters, the Oceanographic Centre and a Sand Box innovation building, will be established. Historical features, including the Paseo de la Riba and Riba lighthouse, will also be preserved.
RENAULT 4 enthusiasts took to Mallorca’s roads on Saturday, December 20, celebrating one of the most iconic cars in automotive history. Organised by the collective 4 Latas Mallorca, the event brought together passionate owners and fans of the beloved ‘4 Latas’ for a day of camaraderie, shared enthusiasm, and colourful motoring, despite some unsettled weather during the route. Around 20 Renault 4 vehicles traversed the island, with the scenic Serra de Tramuntana forming the main route. The convoy quickly captured attention on Mallorca’s roads and concluded with a convivial lunch, where participants exchanged stories and experiences. The event highlighted the enduring appeal of these classic
Credit: Pitxiquin / Creative Commons
Celebrating Renault 4 Remodelling of Palma
Colourful convoy through the Serra de Tramuntana. cars and the strong community spirit among their owners. Produced by French manufacturer Renault between 1961 and 1994, the Renault 4 was designed as a simple, robust, and affordable rival to the Citroen 2CV. Its front-wheel-drive layout and practical hatchback body were revolutionary at the time, appealing to families, farmers, and small business
owners alike. Over eight million units were built worldwide, cementing its status as one of the best-selling cars ever. Its charm, mechanical simplicity, and versatility have made it a cultural icon. Today, gatherings like this one on Mallorca show that the Renault 4 continues to captivate enthusiasts and remains a beloved symbol of automotive heritage.
Snow blankets Serra de Tramuntana WINTER has arrived with determination in the Serra de Tramuntana, dramatically transforming the landscape after an autumn marked by a prolonged lack of rainfall. The abrupt change in weather has brought a sharp drop in temperatures, persistent rain and the return of snow to the highest parts of the mountain range. According to data recorded at the sa Vinyassa thermo-pluviometric station, Sóller has accumulated a total of 62.2 litres per square metre up to December 23. The rainfall episode began timidly on Thursday, December 18, with just 0.2 litres per square metre recorded. Howe-
Credit: Lopezsuarez / Creative Commons
Snow returns to Mallorca above 1,300 metres. ver, it quickly intensified over the weekend. On Friday 19, 15.7 litres were collected, rising to 21 litres on Saturday. Between Sunday and Monday morning, a further 25.3 litres per square metre were added, conDep. Legal PM - 140 - 2004 - ISSN 2488-1686
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solidating a significant improvement in water reserves. Beyond the rainfall, the cold temperatures have allowed snow to fall on the peaks surrounding the valley. As reported by Alberto Darder from Puig Major, snowfall has settled from around 1,300 metres above sea level, with accumulations reaching approximately three centimetres in recent hours. Weather forecasts indicate that these wintry conditions are set to continue.
SPANISH NEWS
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Santa solidarity
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Thousands dressed as Santa ran for charity in festive solidarity.
SANTA CLAUS came to town on Sunday, December 21, for the 14th edition of the Santa Claus Run in Madrid. Some 11,000 participants dressed as Santa, Mrs Claus, and elves filled the city’s Paseo de la Castellana in a charity event supporting the Red Cross. One euro from each registration in the 4.5-kilometre race will go to the Red Cross’ “Early Childhood” initiative, aiding families in vulnerable situations, particularly those with children aged 0 to 6. The programme provides vital support during the holiday season, when expenses rise but donations often fall. The race also honoured athletes Pablo Villalobos and Tamara Sanfabio, who received the Golden Santa Claus award. Villalobos
25 - 31 December 2025
has competed internationally in track, cross country, road, and trail running, finishing seventh in the 5,000 metres at the 2006 European Championships in Gothenburg and fifth in the 2010 European Marathon Championships in Barcelona. Sanfabio, the 2011 Spanish marathon champion, holds the Spanish record in the 2,000-metre steeplechase, a title she has maintained for 15 years, and won Ibero-American bronze in the 3,000m steeplechase in 2006. Alongside the foot race, motorcyclists dressed as Santa hit Madrid’s streets in solidarity with vulnerable families. Engines revved and bells rang as the city celebrated a spectacular show of community spirit, marking the start of the Christmas week with support for those less privileged.
El Gordo
Credit: Oscar Gonzalez Fuentes
SPAIN’s Christmas season truly begins with the National Christmas Lottery, known as El Gordo (“The Fat One”). Children from San Ildefonso School sing out the winning numbers at Madrid’s Teatro Real, captivating millions watching on screens or radio, clutching their décimos (ticket tenths). This year, the top prize, El Gordo, went to number 79432, worth €400,000 per décimo. It was widely shared, mainly in León province towns like La El Gordo Christmas lottery draw. Bañeza, Villablino, and kpots. Pola de Gordón, with some reaching Unlike lotteries like EuroMillions, Madrid. Celebrations erupted in lotEl Gordo is all about shared fortune. tery shops and among shared ticket Spaniards often buy décimos collecgroups - families, colleagues, and tively with workplaces, families, or bar patrons. café regulars, as part of that essenThe second prize (€125,000 per tial Spanish characteristic - commudécimo) fell to number 70048, sold nity spirit. “It’s not just about the entirely in Madrid, distributing over money,” many note; “it’s about par€247 million in the capital. Other ticipating together, sharing joy - or prizes, including fourth and fifth at least collective consolation.” This awards, spread nationwide, upholcamaraderie turns the event into a ding the lottery’s tradition of broad unifying national ritual. distribution over concentrated jac-
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25 - 31 December 2025
SPANISH NEWS
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THE Christmas period brings several public holidays that will affect normal shopping routines across Spain, and two of the country’s largest supermarket chains, Mercadona and Carrefour, have now confirmed their festive opening hours. Mercadona will maintain its long-standing policy of closing on public holidays, meaning all stores will shut on Christmas Day, Thursday December 25, as well as on Sunday December 28. On Christmas Eve, stores remained open on reduced hours from 9am until 7pm,
Credit : Freepik
Christmas opening hours: Mercadona and Carrefour
Hours may be affected during the festive season.
while normal opening hours of 9am to 9.30pm apply on the surrounding weekdays and Saturdays. Some regional variations may apply, particularly in areas such as the Basque Country and Catalonia, where stores often close earlier. Carrefour
has also announced changes to its schedule over the festive season. In general, its hypermarkets will operate extended hours, typically from 10am to 10pm, although reduced hours applied on Christmas Eve and will be reduced again on New Year’s Eve, when stores will close at 7pm. Carrefour will remain closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Three Kings’ Day. Both chains advise customers to check their websites for local variations. With closures and shorter opening times expected, shoppers are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid last-minute inconvenience.
Geologists say tectonic pressure is slowly shifting the Iberian Peninsula.
Iberia in motion SCIENTISTS say Spain and Portugal are far less stationary than they appear. New research shows the Iberian Peninsula is slowly rotating clockwise, caught between the steady push of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The movement is tiny - just a few millimetres a year - but over long periods it helps explain why earthquakes
occur in seemingly unexpected parts of Spain and Portugal. Africa and Europe are gradually moving towards each other, closing the gap by four to six millimetres annually. In many regions, this pressure creates clear fault lines or subduction zones. In Iberia, however, the boundary between the plates in the western Me-
diterranean is diffuse rather than sharply defined. Stress is spread across a wide area that includes much of the peninsula itself, rather than being released along a single fault. This dispersed pressure causes Iberia to twist as well as shift northwards. The effect is strongest around the Alboran domain, between southern Spain and northern Morocco, where sideways forces push the crust westwards. This movement helped form the curved Gibraltar Arc and explains why the geology around the Strait of Gibraltar is particularly complex. Satellite GPS data and seismic records have confirmed this subtle but persistent rotation. The discovery sheds new light on Iberia’s seismic behaviour. Spain and Portugal experience frequent earthquakes that do not always align with visible faults. Understanding the peninsula’s slow rotation helps explain where underground stress accumulates, even when no obvious fault lines are present. While this does not make earthquakes predictable, it provides a clearer framework for assessing geological risk. Spain and Portugal are not suddenly more dangerous, but their landscape is far more dynamic than it seems. On a geological timescale, the Iberian Peninsula is quietly - and continuously - turning.
MALLORCA
NEW YEAR’S EVE in Mallorca is a moment of togetherness, reflection and celebration. Families and friends gather around the table for long dinners before heading into the streets or town squares to welcome the New Year. As midnight approaches, many people make their way to Plaça de Cort in Palma, where the traditional 12 grapes are eaten with each chime of the clock to ensure good luck for 2026. Music, fireworks and shared toasts mark a joyful farewell to 2025. Earlier on December 31, the festive spirit takes on a more active tone with the popular San Silvestre race. This fun and inclusive event sees locals and visitors running through the streets of Palma, often in fancy
Credit: Kelvin Kay / Creative Commons
New Year’s celebrations Son Vida: premium and exceptional
A unique UNESCO-listed tradition. dress, combining sport with humour. It has become a much-loved way to close the year on a positive and healthy note before the evening celebrations begin. After New Year’s Day, anticipation grows for one of the most important dates in the Mallorcan calendar. On January 5, the Three Kings’ Parade
fills the city with colour, music and excitement. Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar parade through the streets on elaborate floats, throwing sweets to cheering crowds. For children, it is the most magical night of the year, marking the true end of the Christmas season in Mallorca.
RESTAURANTE Son Vida offers one of Palma’s most appealing dining experiences, combining premium tapas, refined flavours and a privileged location overlooking the 18th hole of Golf Son Vida. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery, the restaurant provides a calm and elegant setting. The menu showcases a rich variety of tapas prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby producers. Signature dishes include the Bravíssimas potatoes from Sa Pobla, a bold interpretation of a classic with a house-made spicy sauce, and home-grown tomatoes paired with Cantabrian tuna belly and roasted garlic vinaigrette. The fried calamari with homemade alioli and the crispy chicken wings with spicy barbecue and tartare sauces are also firm favourites among
RESTAURANT REVIEW Credit: Restaurant Son Vida
A celebration of Mallorcan flavour. regular guests. A distinguishing feature of Restaurant Son Vida is its exceptional selection of gourmet conservas, sourced from producers who prioritise sustainable fishing and seasonal catches. Options such as sardines, mussels, baby squid and anchovies are served simply with crisps, offering an elegant nod to traditional Spanish flavours. Seasonal dishes, including
tagliatelle with sautéed prawns, confit pork rostit and grilled octopus with smoked paprika, broaden the culinary experience, while homemade desserts and a wine list featuring sustainable Mallorcan labels complete the offering. Camí de Son Vida, 38 E07013 Palma, Spain
Menú del día options Credit: Pelzi / Creative Commons
Where to find a good-value ‘menú del día’ in Mallorca despite rising prices. WITH the Balearic Islands leading Spain’s ranking for the most expensive menú del día, averaging around €16, finding good-value lunch options in Mallorca can feel increasingly difficult. Rising costs have pushed prices up across the island, yet several restaurants continue to offer quality, homemade food at reasonable prices, much to the relief of residents and visitors alike. In Palma, Bar Sion, located on Carrer d’Alfons el Magnànim, serves a complete menú del día for €16, including two courses, water, dessert and coffee. It is particularly popular for its central location and consistently good value. Also in the city, Bruixes Café offers a healthier alternative,
with a €13 daily menu featuring balanced, homemade dishes in a relaxed setting. Outside the capital, Restaurante Stop in Petra stands out with one of the cheapest menus on the island at just €11, including two courses and dessert. Meanwhile, Es Cruce in Vilafranca de Bonany is renowned for its traditional Mallorcan cuisine and remarkably low prices, allowing diners to enjoy a full meal for around €15. For those willing to spend slightly more, Casa Julio and Restaurante Hom provide varied, high-quality menus that combine traditional flavours with generous portions. Despite high average prices, Mallorca still offers excellent options for eating well without overspending.
SPANISH LIVING
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25 - 31 December 2025
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Credit: Freepik
CHRISTMAS holidays are in full swing and while the new year approaches, Spanish households face rising supermarket prices and looming January bills. However, energy costs are set to ease, offering welcome relief. From December 21, electricity, natural gas, and petrol prices have fallen, bucking the trend of double-digit food inflation and rising housing costs. Spain’s average electricity price stands at €78.56 per megawatt-hour (MWh), down 30 per cent from €113.24/MWh a year ago, despite higher winter demand. This drop provides tangible festive-season savings. Forecasts for early 2026 are optimistic. With mild weather, stable liquefied natural gas supplies, and low Asian demand, electricity prices could dip to €50-€55/MWh in the first quarter - near pre-2020 crisis levels and potentia-
Credit: Shutterstock, Igor Link
Good news for new year When dream becomes reality
Building a life in Spain.
Filling up just got a little less expensive
lly the second-cheapest since then. Yet cold snaps, low wind output, or renewable disruptions could quickly change this, as weather drives market swings. Motorists also benefit. Gasoline 95 averages €1.45 per litre after five weeks of declines - four cents cheaper than last year. A 55-litre tank costs about €79.64. Diesel is
THE mornings are feeling pretty chilly now, especially in older homes with tiled floors and limited insulation. With these simple habits, Spanish mornings can be more comfortable without expensive heating. The biggest surprise comes when stepping outside to find the temperature is actually quite mild. Layering is key. Many wear several tight layers, including thermals, scarves, thick
€1.40 per litre, up four cents year-on-year, filling a tank for €76.95. Both fuels remain far below summer 2022 peaks above €2.10/litre, aided by a 22 per cent fall in Brent crude to $59.60 per barrel from oversupply and geopolitics. While food and housing pressures continue, these energy reductions brighten household budgets into the new year.
FOR many, life in Spain is defined by sun, satisfaction and a sense of having chosen well. When readers were asked to describe the lives they’ve built in Spain, the most common responses were short and confident. David Wardell put it simply, “Fantastic life.” Nigel Springhall echoed this with a one-word proclamation “Amazing.” A main reason for contentment was due to the lifestyle changes, as readers swapped stress for sun, sand and sangria. Susan Wallace described her experience as “Most of the time very enjoyable,” reflecting a shared sense that the positives outweigh the negatives. For others, the decision felt transformative. “Absolutely fabulous, would not change anything,” Janet Dawdry said.
Staying warm on a cold Spanish morning socks, trapping heat to the body while staying flexible as temperatures rise. House shoes of lined “zuecos” replace slippers in Spanish homes, insulating feet from cold floors. Breakfast is another secret. A hot café con leche, warm porridge or toasted bread with
olive oil raises core temperatures naturally. A brisk walk in the morning gets blood flowing too, providing a natural warm-up. Shutters, or ‘persianas’, are closed overnight to prevent heat loss, thermal curtain help stop drafts coming through old windows, and portable ‘estufas’ heat only the room in
However, responses also revealed a more nuanced picture. Several longterm residents pointed to increasing bureaucracy as a growing challenge. One reader remarked, “Don’t like it anymore, too much paperwork and rules,” highlighting frustrations that have become more common in recent years. Brexit was frequently mentioned as a turning point. Lyn Rowe noted, “Up until Brexit and the pandemic absolutely fantastic.” Overall, readers see life in Spain as rewarding but not totally free from the everyday realities of life. For most, the sunshine, lifestyle, and sense of belonging still define the experience. Even among those who expressed frustration, few suggested regrets. Spain, remains a place people are happy to call home.
use, all saving energy while keeping your home warm. Hot water bottles remain popular for focused warmth, especially in beds and on sofas and cooking early in the day with the oven warms the kitchen. Families often share a single heat source, whether a chiminea or thick blankets, reducing costs while keeping everyone cosy.
FINANCE UK private equity firm Continuance Capital has acquired West Midlands-based carton packaging specialist Quantum Print and Packaging. Operating partner Owen Newton-Hill was appointed managing director following the August deal, while the existing management team remains in place.
Conveyd’s £2.5m
LONDON-based AI conveyancing platform Conveyd has raised £2.5 million in seed funding, led by Eka Ventures. The company aims to speed up UK home-buying by automating large parts of the conveyancing process using artificial intelligence.
Chip research
GOOGLE has announced a partnership with the UK to give researchers access to its Willow quantum chip, inviting proposals for new scientific uses. The collaboration aims to accelerate research in areas such as chemistry, medicine and materials science.
Illegal rentals
SPAIN has fined Airbnb €64 million for advertising more than 65,000 unlicensed rental properties, ordering the platform to remove the listings. The government says illegal short-term lets fuel housing shortages, while Airbnb says it will challenge the penalty and argues the action breaches regulations.
Crypto rules
THE UK government has unveiled new crypto regulations due from 2027, bringing cryptoassets under Financial Conduct Authority oversight. Ministers say the rules will boost investment and innovation while strengthening consumer protection, aligning crypto firms with standards already applied to shares and other regulated financial products.
4.3%
In October, 221,889 properties were registered in the property registries, 4.3 per cent less than in the same month of the previous year.
Offices searched SPAIN’S National Police searched the Madrid offices of airline Plus Ultra on December 11, seizing financial documentation as part of a money-laundering investigation led by Madrid Investigative Court No. 15, according to Spanish media. Public broadcaster RTVE reports the case is under ‘secreto de sumario’ (judicial secrecy), meaning investigators and the court are limiting what information can be made public while inquiries continue. Several outlets also report that Plus Ultra’s president Julio Martínez and CEO Roberto Roselli were detained in connection with the operation.
Much of the coverage links the investigation to the €53 million public bailout Plus Ultra received in 2021 through SEPI, Spain’s state holding company. RTVE reports that the same Madrid court examined the rescue previously and ordered the earlier case closed
SPANISH sunglasses brand Hawkers faced serious financial pressure in 2016, despite rapid early growth. The company projected €70 million in revenue that year but recorded around €60 million, while losses at a key subsidiary rose by 500 per cent, according to London Loves Business. In October 2016, investor Alejandro Betancourt López led a €50 million funding round through O’Hara Administration and became Hawkers’ largest shareholder. He was appointed president the following month. At the time, the business relied heavily on Facebook advertising, which had become more expensive, and was under pressure from discounting and
BRITAIN’S economy unexpectedly contracted by 0.1 per cent in the three months to October, according to the Office for National Statistics, defying forecasts for flat growth. GDP also fell 0.1 per cent in October alone, meaning the economy has not grown since June, Reuters reported. The data increased expectations that the Bank of England would cut interest rates soon, with markets pricing in a roughly 90 per cent probability.
NATIONWIDE BUILDING SOCIETY chief executive Dame Debbie Crosbie has been appointed the UK’s new Women in Finance Champion. She succeeds Dame Amanda Blanc, who steps down after five years in the role, during which senior female representation in finance rose from 32 per cent to 36 per cent. Dame Debbie will lead the HM Treasury Women in Finance Charter, which now includes more than 440 firms, from January 2026, according to the UK government.
Plus Ultra plane.
in January 2023, concluding that the alleged offences raised at the time were not sufficiently justified. The rescue itself was approved on March 9, 2021, via SEPI’s Solvency Support Fund for Strategic Companies, which was created during the Covid-19 pandemic to
protect businesses considered essential to the economy. However, the decision proved controversial. Onda Cero reported that in 2019 Plus Ultra operated 823 flights, representing just 0.03 per cent of total operations across Spain’s Aena airport network.
How Hawkers stabilised
UK economy
Women in Finance Credit: Instagram @plusultralineasaereas
Carton packaging
STAT OF WEEK
euroweeklynews.com • 25 - 31 December 2025
US criticises Spain Credit: Instagram @hawkersco
BUSINESS EXTRA
10
Hawkers sunglasses.
weaker consumer spending in Spain. Between 2016 and 2018, Hawkers expanded into physical retail, opening more than 80 stores in Spain and Portugal, and increased sales through online marketplaces such as Amazon. The company also restructured management. Hawkers now operates in more than 20 countries, runs over 60 stores and reports annual revenues exceeding €100 million.
Emission goals
SPAIN’S Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has asked the European Commission to maintain existing CO2 emissions targets for the automotive industry, as Brussels prepares to review the policy. According to Europa Press, Sánchez called on Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to preserve the current level of ambition. He also urged the EU not to weaken the planned 2035 ban on new CO2-emitting cars, despite pressure from countries including Germany and Italy to ease the rules amid global competition concerns.
Vigo Airport tower SPAIN has brought its first fully digital air traffic control tower into operation at Vigo Airport, following certification by Spanish aviation regulators. The system, delivered by Searidge Technologies in partnership with Skyway, replaces the traditional tower view with a 360-degree, high-resolution digital display using cameras and sensors. Initial operations will run during low-traffic hours, with a conventional controller on standby, as part of Aena’s wider strategy to digitise airport operations across Spain.
SPAIN’S Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo has called on EU member states to remain united and push ahead with deeper integration following sharp criticism from the Trump administration. Speaking to Euronews, Cuerpo said Europe should move from reacting to external pressure to taking action. He argued Spain’s experience shows the benefits of EU membership, as the government forecasts 2.9 per cent economic growth this year, outperforming several major eurozone economies.
Madrid headquarters COLONIAL SFL, alongside investors led by Andbank España, has acquired Naturgy’s headquarters in Madrid for more than €80 million, according to Spanish REIT. The 13,000-square-metre office building was fully renovated in 2021 and is let to Naturgy on a long-term lease. The deal strengthens Colonial SFL’s portfolio of prime, sustainable office assets in central Madrid, reflecting continued investor confidence in Spain’s commercial real estate market.
FINANCE
12 25 - 31 December 2025
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
Closing Prices 15 December
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3I Group.....................................3.270,00............3.272,00......... 3.201,00...........1,12M Admiral Group.............................3.138,0..............3.150,0........... 3.120,0.......... 583,76K Airtel Africa................................. 320,20...............321,40............317,00.......... 328,87K Anglo American...........................2.892,0..............2.924,0........... 2.869,0............1,14M Antofagasta................................3.099,00............3.123,00......... 3.079,00......... 169,54K Ashtead Group............................5.368,0..............5.368,0........... 5.266,0.......... 236,52K Associated British Foods.............2.125,0..............2.132,0........... 2.111,0.......... 103,38K AstraZeneca...............................13.496,0............13.536,0......... 13.376,0............. 2M Auto Trader Group Plc................ 607,20...............616,00............605,60............1,31M Aviva........................................... 670,80...............676,40............667,40............1,34M B&M European Value Retail SA... 166,40...............172,75............165,65............1,74M BAE Systems..............................1.691,25............1.694,50......... 1.681,00...........4,72M Barclays...................................... 461,80...............463,35............457,25............8,77M Barratt Redrow............................ 377,80...............380,00............374,30............1,26M Beazley........................................ 832,50...............833,50............828,00.......... 196,01K Berkeley......................................3.944,0..............3.950,0........... 3.828,0.......... 139,29K BP............................................... 423,55...............431,80............421,35...........13,85M British American Tobacco...........4.260,0..............4.293,0........... 4.236,0............5,01M BT Group.................................... 184,60...............187,21............184,16............1,96M Bunzl...........................................2.150,0..............2.190,0........... 2.130,0.............1,2M Centrica....................................... 166,90...............167,35............165,65............2,55M Coca Cola HBC AG......................3.784,0..............3.820,0........... 3.778,0.......... 134,34K Compass....................................2.375,00............2.403,00......... 2.365,00...........2,82M ConvaTec Group......................... 239,40...............244,00............237,80.......... 848,29K Croda Intl....................................2.770,0..............2.788,0........... 2.738,0.......... 314,83K DCC.............................................4.867,8..............4.932,0........... 4.812,0.......... 155,23K Diageo.........................................1.670,5..............1.694,5........... 1.662,5............1,11M Diploma.....................................5.305,00............5.330,00......... 5.270,00......... 110,06K EasyJet........................................ 513,60...............515,60............508,80............1,21M Entain.......................................... 745,70...............749,00............735,60.......... 444,06K Experian......................................3.366,0..............3.394,0........... 3.337,0.......... 449,59K F&C Invest.................................1.229,95............1.237,00......... 1.227,00......... 124,45K Flutter Entertainment..................16.345,0............16.400,0......... 16.265,0........... 5,65K Frasers........................................ 699,50...............707,00............680,00.......... 145,04K Fresnillo.....................................3.004,00............3.004,00......... 2.916,00......... 188,65K Glencore...................................... 383,95...............384,65............380,15............6,98M GSK plc......................................1.810,00............1.824,00......... 1.797,50...........4,29M HALEON...................................... 368,30...............370,70............366,20............1,94M Halma..........................................3.518,0..............3.534,0........... 3.492,0.......... 151,88K Hikma Pharma...........................1.503,00............1.519,00......... 1.498,00......... 339,96K Hiscox........................................1.417,00............1.421,00......... 1.411,00......... 394,49K Howden Joinery.......................... 833,00...............836,50............822,50.......... 467,49K HSBC.........................................1.142,60............1.147,70......... 1.133,60...........4,82M IAG.............................................. 418,70...............421,00............416,00.............9,4M ICG PLC.....................................2.026,00............2.030,00......... 2.014,00......... 194,09K IMI PLC......................................2.440,00............2.440,00......... 2.421,05......... 111,58K Imperial Brands..........................3.173,00............3.195,00......... 3.162,00...........3,21M Informa....................................... 865,60...............874,20............861,80............3,34M InterContinental.........................10.485,0............10.550,0......... 10.440,0.......... 37,48K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek........................................4.588,0..............4.594,0........... 4.546,0............ 71,7K J Sainsbury................................. 322,20...............327,50............320,20............6,36M JD Sports Fashion........................ 84,88.................85,56..............84,54.............2,52M Kingfisher.................................... 308,30...............312,40............306,30............1,15M Land Securities........................... 598,50...............603,50............593,50............2,43M Legal & General.......................... 253,90...............257,12............252,20............9,99M Lloyds Banking............................ 95,92.................96,20..............95,08............34,35M London Stock Exchange..............8.908,0..............8.920,0........... 8.780,0........... 399,2K Londonmetric Property............... 185,70...............187,90............185,00............5,76M M&G........................................... 281,50...............282,50............277,10............1,96M Marks & Spencer........................ 330,10...............333,60............328,45............3,02M Melrose Industries...................... 552,00...............554,60............548,00............1,72M Mondi.......................................... 881,40...............888,20............879,00.......... 354,31K National Grid..............................1.141,00............1.152,00......... 1.135,50...........1,84M NatWest Group........................... 635,80...............639,20............625,60............5,16M Next...........................................13.535,0............13.655,0......... 13.435,0.......... 25,07K Pearson......................................1.048,50............1.056,00......... 1.045,00...........1,66M Pershing Square........................4.936,00............5.000,00......... 4.932,00......... 162,85K Persimmon.................................1.337,0..............1.349,0........... 1.320,0.......... 964,41K Phoenix....................................... 723,00...............728,50............717,50............1,78M Prudential...................................1.120,30............1.121,00......... 1.113,00......... 879,15K Reckitt Benckiser........................6.014,0..............6.016,0........... 5.952,0.......... 337,37K Relx............................................3.032,00............3.062,00......... 3.022,00......... 588,04K Rentokil....................................... 444,35...............449,70............442,30............3,26M Rightmove.................................. 525,20...............525,80............521,40............1,28M Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.764,0..............5.779,0........... 5.733,6........... 519,5K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.121,50............1.123,50......... 1.104,00...........2,24M Sage...........................................1.091,00............1.095,00......... 1.081,50......... 918,33K Schroders.................................... 393,2.................394,2..............391,0........... 799,96K Scottish Mortgage......................1.161,50............1.162,50......... 1.148,00......... 803,63K Segro.......................................... 702,40...............707,20............699,00.......... 871,39K Severn Trent...............................2.765,0..............2.782,0........... 2.754,0........... 505,4K Shell............................................2.657,5..............2.684,0........... 2.655,0............4,16M Smith & Nephew........................1.220,50............1.229,00......... 1.218,00......... 160,77K Smiths Group.............................2.348,00............2.350,00......... 2.330,00.......... 149,1K Smurfit Westrock........................2.844,1..............2.853,0........... 2.833,0........... 26,59K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.665,0..............6.680,0........... 6.595,0.......... 177,16K SSE............................................2.157,00............2.173,00......... 2.149,00......... 476,26K Standard Chartered....................1.761,50............1.779,50......... 1.750,50......... 924,11K Taylor Wimpey............................ 104,15...............104,80............103,45............8,79M Tesco.......................................... 438,60...............442,10............437,00............2,06M Unilever.......................................4.871,0..............4.930,0........... 4.845,5............5,04M Unite........................................... 545,00...............547,00............539,50.......... 971,21K United Utilities............................1.185,00............1.192,00......... 1.179,00...........1,32M Vistry Group................................ 635,20...............642,00............624,00.......... 299,25K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 96,060...............97,042............95,480...........80,57M Weir Group................................2.840,00............2.846,00......... 2.810,00......... 365,19K Whitbread...................................2.581,0..............2.604,0........... 2.432,0.......... 913,18K WPP............................................ 337,90...............341,00............333,10.............1,5M
0.87463 1.17360
1.14334
0.9319 7.4691 11.893 10.866 Contact our team of currency experts
+34 871 510 277 currenciesdirect.es
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 15 December
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 163,75...............164,07............162,98............ 44,5K Amazon.com............................... 225,31...............226,50............225,31............2,85M American Express....................... 379,05...............380,44............378,51........... 49,68K Amgen........................................ 327,87...............328,24............325,02.......... 187,62K Apple........................................... 270,43...............273,62............270,11............1,83M Boeing......................................... 209,20...............209,38............207,91.......... 158,46K Caterpillar.................................... 571,89...............574,48............568,65.......... 112,18K Chevron...................................... 148,13...............149,00............148,08.......... 302,62K Cisco............................................ 76,78.................76,96..............76,26............ 505,3K Citigroup..................................... 112,41...............112,64............112,15.......... 246,89K Coca-Cola..................................... 70,58.................70,58..............70,23........... 459,57K Goldman Sachs........................... 885,09...............887,78............880,29........... 89,52K Home Depot................................ 365,00...............365,98............362,39.......... 383,45K Honeywell................................... 201,00...............201,33............199,88........... 65,24K IBM............................................. 301,84...............304,33............301,84.......... 119,94K J&J............................................. 210,30...............210,52............209,62.......... 240,87K JPMorgan................................... 314,79...............316,24............314,23.......... 304,32K McDonald’s................................. 320,67...............321,60............319,15.............181K Merck&Co.................................... 99,98................100,09.............98,86........... 690,28K Microsoft.................................... 480,07...............480,25............477,89.............880K Nike.............................................. 66,60.................66,65..............65,80.............1,02M NVIDIA........................................ 173,79...............174,89............173,73...........10,72M P&G............................................ 146,97...............147,47............146,62.......... 406,82K Salesforce Inc............................. 258,85...............260,00............258,30.......... 265,27K Sherwin-Williams........................ 333,55...............334,00............331,45............ 41,6K The Travelers.............................. 290,26...............290,90............289,74........... 15,68K UnitedHealth............................... 328,68...............329,78............327,68.......... 271,58K Verizon......................................... 40,83.................40,83..............40,75........... 588,71K Visa A.......................................... 346,51...............346,74............344,62.......... 187,61K Walmart...................................... 115,62...............115,62............114,79.......... 524,85K Walt Disney................................. 111,52...............111,53............110,52........... 739,8K M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 15 December
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Mega Fortune.................................................. 143,93 %.........................3,76M Athira Pharma.................................................. 86,47 %.........................26,54M UrbanGro......................................................... 32,57 %.........................58,78M FuelCell Energy................................................ 33,29 %..........................1,84M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................ 28,14 %..........................4,65M Trump Media & Technology Group.................. 23,45 %.........................20,94M Akanda............................................................. 23,27 %..........................3,22M Innovative Solutions........................................ 23,13 %........................473,31K eHealth............................................................. 22,43 %.........................255,2K ClearSign......................................................... 17,82 %.........................37,41K M - Million Dollars
Most Declined Pyxis Oncology................................................-51,63 %..........................1,41M Actelis Networks..............................................-45,75 %..........................7,45M Vision Marine Technologies.............................-40,45 %..........................9,59M Inno Holdings..................................................-39,56 %.........................20,17M Werewolf Therapeutics....................................-34,58 %........................656,17K Processa Pharmaceuticals...............................-26,80 %........................554,81K Optical Cable....................................................-23,87 %.........................46,29K Envirotech Vehicles..........................................-22,91 %.........................28,82M Ryvyl................................................................-20,98 %.........................985,5K Biodexa Pharmaceuticals DRC.........................-19,75 %........................745,92K Datacentrex......................................................-18,20 %........................253,99K M - Million Dollars
FINANCE
euroweeklynews.com
Construction management
FERROVIAL will join the Nasdaq 100 before markets open on December 22, becoming the first Ibex 35 company with ordinary shares on Nasdaq. Index inclusion is expected to trigger more than €1 billion in inflows as passive funds track the benchmark global equity index.
Biomethane investment
SPAIN’S renewables group Solarig plans to invest €355 million in Poland through its biomethane unit, Biorig, developing more than 20 plants over five years. The facilities are expected to generate 1 TWh of green energy annually, supported by favourable Polish regulation and agricultural capacity.
P2P payments SPAIN is consolidating its position as a European leader in instant person-to-person (P2P) payments, driven by the widespread adoption of Bizum and new cross-border interoperability with Portugal and Italy. The findings come from a 2025 report published by Nuek, the payment infrastructure technology company of Minsait, part of the Indra Group, and produced in collaboration with Analistas Financieros Internacio-
Credit: Jack_the_sparow, Shutterstock.
BUSINESS EXTRA
25 - 31 December 2025
P2P payment.
nales (Afi). According to the report, P2P payments have pro-
gressed from early adoption into a phase of scaling, functional convergence and
UK savers
SAVERS who kept their money in cash ISAs have missed out on much stronger growth compared with stocks and shares ISAs over the past 15 years. Data from Moneyfacts shows investors made an average £133 for every £100 put into a stocks and shares ISA. Cash ISA savers made just £30 per £100.
A £10,000 investment would have grown to £23,300 in stocks and shares, compared with £13,000 in cash. Moneyfacts said average annual returns were 6.79 per cent for stocks and shares ISAs and 1.79 per cent for cash. While investments can rise and fall, experts say they are better suited to long-term saving.
internationalisation, becoming a genuine alternative to cash in several markets. A survey of the banked population cited in the study shows that 25 per cent of users already use instant transfers to pay other individuals, reflecting the growing normalisation of digital P2P payments, according to Nuek. In Spain, instant P2P payments are dominated by Bizum, which has reached levels of penetration comparable to Pix in Brazil and MB Way in Portugal, systems that have already displaced cash as the preferred method for payments between individuals. While cash remains relevant in Spain, the report notes that Bizum is ‘rapidly moving’ towards becoming a mainstream alternative, placing Spain among Europe’s leading markets for instant P2P payments.
13
Money talks
MONEY talk is still a relationship red flag in Britain, with couples three times more likely to get ‘the ick’ from discussing finances than marriage on a first date, Starling Bank research shows. Two thirds of couples say clashing money habits cause stress, delaying home ownership and family plans.
Slang speak GOOGLE has upgraded Google Translate with its Gemini AI, promising smarter, more natural translations that better capture tone, idioms and slang. A new beta feature also offers live speech-to-speech translation through headphones, while expanded language tools aim to help users practise and improve fluency when travelling or living abroad.
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
Perks of getting older LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT AT 86, I can assure all I’ve collected more wrinkles than royalties. However, this week I’m pleased to report that growing old does occasionally come with a few unexpected perks. One of them revealed itself rather grandly on my recent trip, from my home in Mallorca to mainland Spain, for a couple of (splendidly arranged) cabaret bookings. My much-appreciated regular readers will know full well, that flying and I have never been close friends. I don’t actually grip the armrests until my knuckles turn white, but I do offer up the occasional silent prayer to the patron saint of nervous flyers. This particular journey wasn’t too bad however, apart from a thick blanket of cloud on the descent that did give us a bit of a jiggle on landing. Nothing dramatic, mind you - just enough turbulence to remind me that I prefer my dancing done on stage than at 30,000 feet! Before any of that, however, I had
naturally experienced the modern airport ritual when passengers’ dignity is briefly misplaced by the obligatory Geiger counter frisk and body search. However, it was after this final security check the ol’ boy’s years suddenly became an advantage; I was for the first time traveling under the calming influence of ‘special assistance’. From that point on the staff could not have been more helpful. No barking orders, no sighs of impatience - just warm smiles and reassuring voices. Considerate employees who’d clearly chosen to help rather than hurry. Instead of the usual long shuffle through terminals that seem to stretch for miles, I was calmly assisted onto one of those electric vehicle transports and subsequently transferred to a chair which then wheeled me smoothly across the tarmac like visiting royalty. There I was, first to board, escorted right to the door of the plane. No queues, no elbows, no one clouting me with an oversized backpack. For once in my life, I was ahead of the parade. I can safely assure all, that growing old may take away the spring in your step, but
it does replace it with a certain grace from others. There’s something rather touching about being helped simply because you’ve earned a few years. The ol’ boy truly did feel genuinely grateful. On the return journey, one small moment did actually make me chuckle. The young lady pushing my wheelchair glanced at my surname and asked, very earnestly, “Are you Rebecca’s father?” Yes, I replied, slightly puzzled. Apparently, Rebecca, my youngest daughter, has become something of a star on TikTok and Instagram. The young helper’s eyes widened. “Oh… you’re famous!” Now there’s irony for you. Chances are they’d never heard of Leapy Lee, the sixties singer who once graced the venues and charts. But Lee Graham Rebecca’s dad! That, apparently, was fame enough. Ain’t life interesting. And if growing old means being wheeled kindly through airports and rediscovered by a new generation - well, I’ll take that as a win. Have a great Christmas all - soon comes around dunnit? 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.
INTERVIEW
Oh. What. Fun - Movie
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OH. What. Fun. serves as a reminder that it’s not elves in the North Pole bringing Christmas magic to life, it’s mothers. When matriarch Claire is unceremoniously left behind by her kids for a Christmas Eve concert she organised, she sets off on a Christmas adventure of her own. Despite a star-studded cast with Michelle Pfeiffer steering the sleigh as Claire, the movie’s low budget feel lets it down. Oftentimes it feels like a hollow imitation of Christmas movies past. A good Boxing Day binge rather than a Christmas classic. Season 2
Fallout FALLOUT finally returned to screens on December 17, with new episodes releasing weekly on Prime Video. Ella Purnell leads the show, embodying the wide-eyed lead character Lucy who leaves her underground vault to find a horrifying wasteland. The audience experiences this fictional world through her eyes and experiences. The post-apocalyptic thriller’s first season was hailed as the perfect videoga-
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Cr ed ted challenges. Margherita Professionally, Margheit: M found the local timetable rita works as an English difficult, noting that teacher, helping studinners often begin dents improve lanaround 10.30pm, a guage skills while sharp contrast to navigating the her accustomed Spanish education 8.30pm. Building system. Beyond friendships in Cataher teaching, she is lonia also required deeply involved in patience. Despite these volunteer work. She hurdles, she highlights contributes remotely Margherita advises the positives: the Mediteto the IUCN SSC Otter newcomers to embrace rranean climate, accessible Specialist Group, manalocal cuisine, learn the lifestyle, and welcoming ging media and networlanguage, and engage communities. She has reking efforts, and locally with older residents. mained in Spain for comsupports Los Angeles del Raval, an exotic animal rescue centre that fort and stability, advising newcomers to cares for abandoned pets and non-pro- embrace local cuisine, learn the language, tected species. “Helping the animals and and engage with older residents. Her experience exemplifies the blend of connecting with the local community has personal, professional, and cultural facbecome a central part of my life,” she says. Adapting to Spanish culture presen- tors influencing European mobility.
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Prim
MARGHERITA, originally from Ravenna, Italy, relocated to Spain between 2010 and 2011 after spending time in Rome, Norway and Portugal. Her move was prompted by a longdistance relationship, aiming to test cohabitation with her partner after a year apart. She lived in several Spanish cities, including Madrid, Granada, Cordoba, and now Barcelona, gradually integrating into local life while exploring diverse regional cultures and lifestyles.
IN Spain, Christmas gift-giving has never been about excess. Between Amigo Invisible exchanges and inforCredit : Alfonso Soler, Shutterstock mal family agreements, Friends enjoying most people shop with Christmas gift shopping a clear budget in mind in Spain. - usually between €20 and €30. Far from being restrictive, that price limit has shaped a very specific Christmas culture, focused on practicality, comfort and small pleasures that people actually use. Shops across Spain are well aware of this. Every December, both physical stores and online platforms highlight ranges of ‘regalos por menos de €30’, making it easy to find presents that feel thoughtful without tipping into extravagance. Popular choices are items that add warmth or comfort during winter, such as candles, home fragrances and mugs. Small board games and card games also see a surge in popularity at Christmas. Beauty mini-sets and skincare kits continue to sell well, especially for colleagues or distant relatives. Decorative home accessories, books, planners and personalised items like customised mugs or keychains also fit neatly into the under-€30 category. Food gifts remain a classic option too, with chocolate boxes, turrón and gourmet treats widely used as host gifts or safe last-minute choices. Wherever the gift comes from, presentation still matters. Good wrapping or a handwritten note can elevate even the simplest present. In Spain, the rule is clear: within a €30 limit, it’s not the price that counts, but choosing something that feels considered and genuinely welcome.
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me adaptation, complete with the wicked sense of humour and wild-west violence fans love from the original games. Season 2 promises to be just as gripping, gruesome and goofy as the first. o
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Trusted care on the Balearics: Nursing, home support and babysitting when you need it most
IN a place as international as Mallorca, life can change quickly. A family holiday can be interrupted by a child’s fever. An older relative may need extra support after a fall. New parents might be craving a few hours of rest, or practical guidance in those intense first days at home. And for many residents, the goal is simple: to stay independent, safe and comfortable in familiar surroundings for as long as possible. That’s where Angels Nursing and Babysitting Agency has built its reputation - offering a flexible, responsive service that can be adapted to the individual, whether you’re a longterm resident or simply visiting the island. Based in the Balearics, the agency provides qualified, experienced nurses, midwives, carers and babysitters, with care packages designed around what clients actually need, not a one-size-fits-all template. A personalised approach, not a ‘standard package’ The hallmark of good community care is listening first, then acting. Angels positions itself as a service that starts with your situation - your health, your family routines, your home environment and your preferences - and then builds support around it. That might mean short-term help after surgery, regular visits for longer-term conditions, or a temporary boost for a family juggling work, school and caregiving. The agency describes its team as kind, trustworthy and professional, offering community nursing alongside childcare and babysitting services, tailored to individual requirements. In practice, that breadth matters: the same organisation can support a household across generations, from newborn care to elderly assistance, which is often exactly what families need when they are far from their usual support networks. Nursing and home support, delivered where it matters: at home For many people, home is more
than an address - it’s independence, routine, dignity and control. Community-based nursing and home support can help bridge the gap between hospital treatment and full recovery, or provide ongoing help that allows someone to remain at home safely. Angels highlights one-to-one nursing and care within the local community, built on years of experience working in Mallorca. The agency’s founder, Sally Luxmoore, is listed as a qualified nurse registered in both the UK and Spain, with a background in specialist care in the Mallorcan community since 1990. That kind of continuity can make a difference in real-world situations: coordinating care when language barriers exist, helping families understand what support is available, and providing reassurance when someone is vulnerable, tired, or recovering. Practical help for new parents:
midwives, doulas and night nannies The earliest days of parenthood can be joyful and overwhelming in equal measure - especially if you’re in a new country or far from relatives who’d normally step in. Angels’ baby support services include midwives and doulas who can provide advice and assistance with newborn care, such as bathing guidance, breastfeeding support and practical safety guidance. For many families, it’s the sleep deprivation that hits hardest. Night nanny support - someone experienced who can care for the baby so parents can rest - can be transformative, even if booked for a short period. It’s not about ‘luxury’; it’s about keeping parents well enough to care safely, especially after a difficult birth or when one parent is managing alone. Childcare that fits real life (and real holidays)
Mallorca is a family destination, but parents also need time: an evening out, a wedding event, a medical appointment, or simply a quiet hour to recharge. Reliable babysitting can turn an anxious scramble into a calm plan. Angels states it can provide care for children in their own home, including support for poorly children by specialist nurses if they are too unwell for school while parents still have work commitments. For visitors, that combination of babysitting and medically informed support can be a major reassurance - particularly when travelling with young children. Peace of mind comes from standards - and from humanity The care sector is often judged on credentials, and rightly so. But families also look for something less tangible: warmth, discretion and good communication. When someone invites a caregiver or babysitter into their home, they’re asking for professionalism and trust. Angels has been positioned as offering peace of mind with a personal touch, supporting people who are travelling, recovering, or seeking dayto-day help. That phrase resonates because good care isn’t only about tasks. It’s about knowing someone will show up, understand what’s needed, and treat the person receiving care with dignity. When should you consider calling? You don’t need to wait for a crisis. Families often reach out when they notice the ‘small’ signs: a relative is unsteady on their feet, medication routines are getting confusing, or a parent is burning out from sleepless nights. A short conversation can clarify what support is available - and whether it’s needed now or later. Whether you’re a resident looking for ongoing support, a family arranging care for a loved one, or visitors wanting reliable childcare, the key is finding a service that is responsive, experienced, and easy to communicate with.
Contact details (Angels Nursing and Babysitting Agency) Website: www.angelsnursingagency.com Email: info@angelsnursingagency.com • Phone: +34 619 07 01 00
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HUNDREDS of motorcyclists brought festive cheer to Marbella on Thursday, December 18, during the annual Papanoelada toy run organised by Motoclub Los Mentirosos. Dressed in Santa suits, elf costumes, and white beards, the riders formed a colourful convoy to collect new toys for underprivileged children. The event, in partnership with Marbella Town Hall, began at 6pm from the Bulevar de Pablo Ráez. The procession passed along Avenida Ricardo Soriano and Avenida Severo Ochoa, finishing at the Marbella Arch, with residents cheering and handing over donations. Numbers are still being tallied, but organisers expect thousands of toys will be distributed through local charities to ensure children receive presents on Christmas morning. Known for year-round charity rides, Los Mentirosos once again showcased Marbella’s generous community spirit, delighting spectators with the thundering motorcycles and sea of red suits.
ALICANTE GASTRONÓMICA SOLIDARIA, a local non-profit, will cook and distribute over 9,000 meals this holiday season to vulnerable people across the Costa Blanca, with Michelin-starred chefs preparing the dishes. The festive menu includes traditional Christmas fare such as homemade broth, roast lamb, stuffed turkey with apple and sweet potato sauce, and regional sweets including turrón from Jijona, chocolate from Villajoyosa, and Alicante grapes from Vinalopó. During the holidays, chefs and volunteers will prepare and serve 4,500 meals a week alongside the organisation’s regular provision, continuing through New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and Three Kings’ Day, spreading festive cheer and nourishment. Since its inception, Alicante Gastronómica Solidaria has delivered more than 1.7 million meals across 46 municipalities in the Valencian Community.
Axarquia
Almeria
THE Axarquia village of Macharaviaya, birthplace of Spanish hero Bernardo de Gálvez, is strengthening historic ties with the United States ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026. The council recently met in Malaga with US Embassy representatives to plan joint events and promote a new exhibition, “Macharaviaya Universal”, which opened on November 7 at the Gálvez Museum and runs until January 4. It features artefacts, recreations and documents highlighting the Gálvez family’s transatlantic links. US officials showed strong interest in the village’s 2026 programme and explored opportunities for cultural collaboration. Bernardo de Gálvez (1746–1786) played a decisive role in the American Revolutionary War and received honorary US citizenship in 2014. Macharaviaya annually marks Independence Day with Battle of Pensacola reenactments and is twinned with Pensacola, Florida.
LUCK struck in Turre on Friday, December 19, when a local resident won the Millionaire Maker prize. The winning ticket was validated at a local shop, whose owner, María Caparrós, expressed delight at handing over such a substantial prize. Caparrós, nearing retirement, said it was the first major prize she had ever given out. The Millionaire Maker is an additional draw held on every EuroMillions day, Tuesday and Friday. Players automatically receive an alphanumeric code for each bet, with a single winner claiming the grand prize. The winner’s identity remains unknown, even to Caparrós, who sells tickets to many customers. The news has sparked excitement in the town as residents await the winner to come forward.
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DENIA recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of its UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation with a public event that drew over 4,000 people to the city centre. The celebrations honoured individuals, organisations, and institutions that have helped establish Denia as a centre of culinary culture, innovation, and sustainability. The ceremony in Plaza del Consell saw commemorative aprons presented to representatives from the gastronomic sector, local producers, collaborating organisations, and public and private institutions involved in the project. Mayor Vicent Grimalt described the anniversary as a shared celebration and highlighted initiatives such as Menja’t la Marina, the Bancalet brand, GASTERRA, and the D*na festival as examples of Denia’s culinary prominence. AEHTMA president Amor Lidia López noted the city and Marina Alta remain a benchmark for blending tradition, innovation, and civic commitment.
MURCIA has once again proved to be a top Spanish travel destination, with new data from travel website Jetcost highlighting its popularity for New Year holidays. Many European tourists are heading to the region for its mild weather, coastline, rich culture, festivals, and cuisine. Spain’s relatively affordable prices also give it an edge over Italy, France, and Portugal. For travel between December 26 and January 4, Murcia ranks among the top 15 destinations requested by Britons (11th) and by Germans and Dutch tourists (15th). According to the Spanish National Institute of Statistics, nearly 120,000 British visitors arrived in Murcia in 2025, staying an average of nine days. June was the busiest month, with over 24,000 arrivals. Longer stays and off-season tourism continue to boost the local economy, cementing Murcia as a yearround destination.
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AT first glance, Daisy appears serene, and well-behaved. Look closer, to find a dog with a specific agenda, an unshakeable sense of purpose. New dog-sitters encounter their first ‘Daisy moment’ mid-walk. Everything is fine until - plonk - she parks herself the instant she finds an acceptable patch of sunshine. Tugging the lead? Pointless. Treats? Offensive. Daisy has found her sunspot and will now be observing a mandatory 15-minute basking session. This dog will not move. On grey days, Daisy is different. She’ll walk for miles, chase pigeons and pretend squirrels are public enemy number one. But the moment the sun appears and paints a golden square on the pavement Daisy locks on like a heat-seeking missile, lowering herself with intent and sits stubbornly still - charging her batteries while the world waits. Daisy isn’t unusual. Many pets are quirky like this, and that’s exactly what makes house and pet-sitting such fun. You don’t just care for homes - you get front-row seats to the hilarious routines of the animals who
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Dog-sitters soon learn that Daisy worships the sun
Daisy conducting her daily solar recharge at the beach.
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Xmas playlist on paws I START listening to my Christmas playlist the moment the clock strikes midnight on December 1. By that point in the year, I need the pick me up only the jolly melody of ‘Jingle Bells’ can bring. While I was having a grand ole time, turns out I was turning my dogs into certified Scrooges. Studies suggest dogs relax best to slow, simple music made up of no more than 50 to 60 beats per minute. The high-tempo Christmas classics we all love this time of the year don’t really fit the bill. Dogs want less ‘Step into Christmas’, more ‘step outside and leave me alone’. Topping the list for stress-inducing songs is Wham!’s Last Christmas, with 206 BPM.
Credit: shutterstock, Masarik
Swap the Christmas bops for Christmas carols.
Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin’ Stevens’ comes in a close second with 203 BPM: Even Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas drives your dog mad with 180 BPM. All absolute classics for humans, but a panic attack waiting to happen for your four-legged friends. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you have to ditch the December playlist completely. There are some Christmas classics you can still listen to guilt free, without fear you’re driving your dog up the wall. Favourites like Frosty the snowman and Here Comes Santa Clause have relatively low tempos, making for the perfect seasonal soundtrack.
Stocking stuffers for animal lovers C o m m i s WE’RE inching ever sion art of your closer to Christmas friend and their Day, but if you’re four-legged anything like me, bestie. There are you might not be so many talented done with your artists offering to Christmas shopdoodle people and ping yet. their pets. Find them If you’re stion retail sites like Etsy ll scrambling for or social media, Christmas or get a feel for their Three Kings Gift guide for gift ideas for a animal lovers. art style and see what they can do. friend or family If you’re artistically gifted, member who has a pet, even better. This could then I’m here to help. make for a thoughtful gift A stuffed animal veryour friend will treasure. sion of their pet. Stuffed Donate to an animal animals always make for rescue group in their a good gift, but get your honour. A lot of animal friend a stuffed animal charities will send you that looks just like their goodies to show their beloved pet and they’ll be gratitude. Some even obsessed. update you on the animal Lint rollers. Lots of you sponsored, showing lint rollers. Only pet owyou GPS information of ners truly understand the their recent movements. power of a lint roller. Part The perfect gift for any gag-gift, part useful item animal lover. they’ll secretly appreciate. Credit: Shutt erstoc k, slow motio ngli
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Audi Q5 SUV - practical, comfortable and very efficient ROAD TEST By Mark Slack THERE are some cars, when they’re due on my driveway, that herald a certain expectation, driveability, comfort and premium style. Audi is one such brand and in their latest Q5 there’s much to like but does it meet those expectations? Q5 comes in SUV and Sportback along with similarly named models but with e-hybrid plug-in power and there’s the SQ5 performance version. Prices start from €60,483/£53,101 for the leadin SUV model with mild-hybrid power whether you choose the 2.0-litre petrol or diesel. My test car was the €71,826/£63,060 Launch Edition powered by the 204PS 2.0-litre TDI engine and comes as standard with adaptive air suspension (usually a €1964/£1725 option), matrix LED headlights, adaptive
cruise control, head up display, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, power seats, auto dimming rear view mirrors, wireless phone charging, heated, powered and folding door mirrors, keyless entry and start and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. The interior is the usual efficient Audi affair with an impressive curved OLED display screen but sadly lacking in bu-
ttons! However, it’s a system that works well and as ever with such things familiarity makes life easier. With quattro all-wheel-drive along with other drive modes, a seven-speed automatic gearbox and a torquey 204PS diesels engine with 48-volt mild hybrid power unit the Q5 is a refined and smooth performer. With the benchmark 100kph/62mph passed in a whisker under 7.5 seconds,
and 5.3l per 100km/44mpg in combined driving it’s also an efficient performer too. The ride quality is excellent, no mean feat given the state of the roads here in the UK, and thanks to extremely comfortable sports seats long journeys are completed in a very relaxing environment. Passengers are treated to plenty of legroom both front and rear, there’s admirable amounts of space for luggage, not always a given for an SUV, and unlike the Sportback the SUV has a less streamlined roofline to provide a more versatile and practical load area. Does the Q5 meet those expectations mentioned at the start of this piece? In many respects it certainly does, the way it drives is pure premium, likewise the technology, but the interior is rather plain and ordinary, not helped by the overly dark tones of black and grey from the headlining to the seats, door cards and dash-
Facts at a Glance Model: Audi Q5 Launch Edition Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel with 48volt mild hybrid assistance Gears: 7-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive Price: €71,826/£63,060 Performance: 0 – 100kph/62 mph 7.4 seconds Economy: 5.3l per 100km/44mpg Emissions: 167 g/km Co2 Euro 6e Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets board. It just doesn’t feel special enough, as an Audi should feel. Subjective comments apart for those who like the dark then the Q5 is a practical, comfortable and very efficient choice.
Spain launches 018 helpline to support road accident victims.
will not appear on phone bills. The helpline is expected to operate daily from 8am to 9pm, extending access beyond normal office hours. The DGT says the service will offer guidance on administrative procedures, victims’ rights, compensation and access to psychological, social and legal support. It is not a replacement for emergency services, but a resource during the
difficult period that follows. Run by Servicios de Teleasistencia under a €579,590 contract to September 2027, the line will prohibit commercial activity and include options for people with hearing or speech impairments. The helpline forms part of Spain’s Road Safety Strategy 2030, aiming to halve road deaths and serious injuries compared with 2019.
SPAIN’s traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), has launched a major crackdown on dangerous driving for the festive season. The intensified control campaign, run in partnership with the Guardia Civil, began on Monday, December 15, targeting drunk and drugged drivers during the Christmas party period. Traffic experts warn that increased fatigue, congestion, speeding, and high alcohol consumption make roads significantly more perilous this month. DGT data from 2024 revealed that nearly half of all drivers killed in Spanish road accidents had consumed either alcohol or illegal drugs. Drivers must be aware of the low legal limits. For general licence holders, the maximum legal threshold is 0.25 mg/l in breath (or 0.5 g/l in blood). This means that for an average man, roughly one standard bottle of beer consumed with a meal can put them near the limit. Novice and professional drivers face even stricter rules. The DGT also cautions against driving the morning after a party, as alco-
Credit: DGT
SPAIN will introduce a national helpline for people affected by road accidents, offering support long after emergency services have left the scene. From early 2026, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) will launch a freephone number, 018, dedicated to road traffic victims and their families. Until now, victims have had to rely on the general government helpline 060, which covers a wide range of issues and is not tailored to the emotional and legal challenges following serious collisions. The new line will provide a single, confidential point of contact focused exclusively on the aftermath of road accidents. It will be available to those injured or killed in crashes and their relatives, and indirect victims seeking information or support. Calls will be free, confidential and
Credit : Bilanol, Shutterstock
New helpline launch Breath test campaign
Guardia Civil carry out breathalyser test.
hol elimination slows significantly during sleep. Penalties are severe. Fines for excessive speeding range from €100 to €600, depending on the severity of the offence. Penalties for improper parking, common during the Christmas rush, cost drivers between €80 and €200. For a safe and fine-free holiday, authorities urge all motorists to plan journeys in advance, adhere to limits, and, crucially, never drive after consuming alcohol.
24 25 - 31 December 2025
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Run for a Cause Mallorca host Credit: RCD Mallorca
Credit: PAstudio / Shutterstock
SON SERVERA is gearing up for a morning of movement and community spirit on Saturday, December 27. The local athletics club, supported by the town hall, invites residents to the Cursa Nadalenca Solidària Serverina. This gathering aims to improve public health while assisting those in need through the municipal social services. The Plaça de Sant Joan serves as the hub for the day’s activities. Children lead the way at 10.30, tackling distances of either 500 or 1,000 metres. At 11.30, the focus shifts to adults The Christmas Fun Run is set for Saturday with a 4.2 km run consisDecember 27. ting of six laps around a 700-metre circuit. For those preferring a gentler exertion, a 1.4 km personal hygiene item - such as shamwalk commences shortly after the adult poo, toothpaste, or soap - to support lostart. cal families. Organisers emphasise that these To keep spirits high, prizes await the events prioritise enjoyment over compe- three best Christmas costumes, with tition; no official timing or rankings exist. awards for both individuals and groups. Instead, the focus remains on the “soli- You can sign up via Elitechip or at the darity entry fee.” While participation costs square on the morning of the event, pronothing, every runner should donate a vided spaces remain.
Estadi Mallorca Son Moix. RCD MALLORCA host Girona FC in a notable La Liga fixture at Estadi Mallorca Son Moix on Sunday, January 4, with an 18.30 local kick off scheduled for Sunday evening. The match signals the return of top flight football following the winter break, as league action resumes on the island in the opening days of the new year. The meeting brings together two sides with a finely balanced recent
history. Across 17 previous competitive encounters, Mallorca hold a narrow edge with seven victories, while Girona have won six times and four matches have ended in draws. This record highlights the competitive nature of the fixture and suggests another closely fought contest. Son Moix, which has a capacity of approximately 26,020, is located around three kilometres from the centre of Palma and is
known for generating a strong home atmosphere, particularly during holiday periods when attendances are higher. Tickets are available through official club channels, with prices varying depending on seating area and availability. With the fixture taking place during the festive period, a strong turnout is anticipated as both teams look to secure points early in the calendar year.
Dive into 2026 Participants are welcome to swim in swimwear or even fancy dress, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Safety is a top priority, with lifeguards, kayaks, paddle boards, support boats and medical services on hand throughout the event. Entry to the 400-metre race costs €5, with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to SOS MAMAS. Additional voluntary donations can be made during registration. All swimmers receive insurance, medical assistance, a swim cap, post-race refreshments, including hot chocolate and soup, and a commemorative gift. Registrations close on December 31 at 10.00pm via www.eli techip.net. A perfect way to start the year by giving back and diving in. Credit: Shutterstock, Lokman Hamid
PALMA de Mallorca will dive into 2026 with the first Capfico de l’Any 2026 al Port de Palma, a charity open-water swimming event supporting the NGO SOS MAMAS. The festive and sporty challenge takes place on Thursday, January 1 at 12.00pm, at Playa de Can Pere Antoni in Portixol, next to Bar Ossaona. Organised by the Autoritat Portuària de Balears, with technical direction from Club Marathon Mallorca and timing by Elitechip, the event combines sport, health and fun while raising funds for a good cause. Swimmers can choose between two distances on a 200-metre circuit: a 400-metre competitive swim (two laps) and a 200-metre non-competitive, popular swim (one lap), this one completely free to enter.
Start the new year with a splash.