Mallorca 28 Aug – 3 Sept 2025 Issue 2095

Eva Longoria is filming!

SA Fortaleza de Pollença has reportedly been chosen as the location for filming the movie ‘The Last Sunrise’, in which American actress, filmmaker, and businesswoman Eva Longoria is participating.

The film is directed by Carlson Young and adapted by Anna Klassen, with an all-star production team led by Anna Todd, Jennifer Gibgoy, Andrew Panay, Brian Pitt and Lena Panay.

Earlier on, in addition to Eva Longoria, two of the main characters landed on the island: Argentine actress Maia Reficco and young Madrid-born actor and model Fernando Lindez.

The film tells the story of a young woman who has grown up under the shadow of a chronic illness and maternal overprotection. Oriah Ry, played by Reficco, travels to Mallorca in the middle of summer and meets Julián, played by Lindez, a cha-

rismatic and attractive Mallorcan who draws her into a world of adventure.

The film, scheduled for release on Amazon Prime Video in early 2026, will be filmed throughout September in several

outdoor locations on the island, capturing the essence and beauty of the Mediterranean. The international production boasts a significant technical and human commitment. The Last Sunrise

reunites Eva Longoria and Puerto Rican actor Amaury Nolasco.

They maintain an excellent friendship off stage. Away from the spotlight, they are an unbeatable padel tennis duo.

Brilliance of the Sea

THE Brilliance of the Sea is one of the nearly 500 cruise ships that visited Mallorca and the rest of the Balearic Islands between January and August of this year.

The luxurious cruise ship arrived on August 23 in Palma and offered visitors and enthusiasts the opportunity to discover one of the most complete ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

The ship, renowned for its perfect combination of adventure and comfort, stands out for its unique facilities,

such as its 12-metre climbing wall, rotating panoramic bar, and relaxation areas with Jacuzzis under glass roofs, and even a mini-golf course.

Its visit to the Mallorcan port is part of its Mediterranean route.

Aragón family holiday

FAMOUS Spanish actor, comedian, filmmaker, Emilio Aragón, has arrived in Mallorca with his son, Nacho Aragón and his daughter-in-law, Bea Gimeno, who are about to make their father a grandad.

Mallorca is the Aragón family’s favourite summer destination, as Emilio has made Pollença his unique retreat, where he and his family enjoy countless holiday activities, including sailing across the five islands.

Among their favourite activities is sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the bay, an activity they regularly share on their social media profiles. The beaches of Son Serra de Marina and Son Bauló are among their favourite destinations, where they take advantage of the opportunity to cool off and enjoy quality family time.

Emilio Aragón’s deep-rooted connection to Mallorca has endured across subsequent generations. Emilio and his family were also in Mallorca in April. So deep is his love for the island that his son, Nacho Aragón, chose this location to marry his partner, Bea Gimeno, in an intimate ceremony held in Puigpunyent.

EVERY year since the regrettable death of Russell Stevens, whose life ended sadly in a freak accident on his way to a classic event on the island of Mallorca 10 years ago, the Classic Car Club honours his wonderful life with an event at Port Adriano, opposite the Kuko Crew Bar. The bar emailed Euro Weekly News with their Russell Stevens Memorial Event invitation on Thurs-

Honouring Russell Stevens

day, August 28. In the invite, they said the “new Kuko Crew Bar has created two special menus for the evening to showcase their cooking: ‘The Speed’ and ‘The Show’.”

They also recommended that all those who plan to attend the celebration at their bar should notify

THE return of Iñaki Urdangarin to Mallorca has caused enormous anticipation, not only because of the place he chose for his vacation, but also due to the surprising absence of Ainhoa Armentia.

staff and let them know which of the two menus they would prefer.

Parking is free.

The Speed Menu is €20 and offers three hamburgers to choose from, along with a drink. The Show Menu, a proper three-course meal, is €35 and includes a drink

as well. Previously, the Classic Car Club had also emailed Euro Weekly News saying that this year, all car enthusiasts in Mallorca are invited to “bring your special car and join us in a celebration of Russell’s life at the Car Show extravaganza of the year in Port Adriano.”

The ex-duke is back

lla and has plans to work or launch a project on the island related to a role as an advisor or linked to sports and personal growth. Since leaving prison, Urdangarin has only worked for the Imaz Abogados law firm in Vitoria, where he met Ainhoa Armentia.

Seeing Juan Carlos I’s former son-in-law jogging along Palma’s Paseo Marítimo has brought back many memories of an era marked by both highlights and shadows.

Seven years after the Supreme Court upheld the sentence handed down by the Provincial Court of Palma, which would have sentenced Urdangarin to five years and 10 months in prison, Infanta Cristina’s ex-husband has returned to Mallorca.

He was imprisoned for embezzlement, prevarication, fraud against the Administration, two tax offences and influence

peddling.

Speculation has run wild, rumouring that the former duke is staying at a local businessman’s vi -

In recent months, rumours also speculated that he was writing his memoirs. Spanish Royal expert, Pilar Eyre, was the first to reveal news about the book. She said Urdangarin would be finalising some devastating memoirs, with a planned publication date in January 2026.

8 Dog-friendly beaches

ideal for having fun outdoors with your dog.

Punta Marroig (Palmanova)

Located between Palmanova and Es Carregador, this location is a rocky beach surrounded by idyllic scenery.

Punta d’es Far (Alcudia)

Another dog-friendly beach in Mallorca in 2025. Located on Alcanada Beach, about 3.5 km from Puerto de Alcudia and past the golf course.

Cala Gamba (Palma)

This is a small, rocky beach where dogs can enjoy themselves year-round.

Need to know Spanish laws

Prioritising public order and safety

WHEN in Spain, whether as a tourist or new resident, there’s no formal guide to local laws, but ignorance isn’t an excuse. You’re expected to know the regulations in the BOE (official state bulletin). Here are six lesser-known laws foreigners should understand:

Mandatory ID: Everyone must carry a valid photo ID, like a passport, in public. Police can demand it anytime, and failure to comply may lead to a €600 fine or detention. Photocopies don’t count.

Zero Tolerance for DUI: Spain’s strict alcohol limit for driving is effectively zero - think a thimble of wine. Mouthwash might even trigger a positive test. Drug-related driving offences carry up to €1,000 fines, licence points deductions, or jail. Random roadside tests are common.

Citizen Security Law: The ‘Gag Law’ punishes disrespect or disobedience to police with fines from €100 to €30,000. Unauthorised protests near government buildings can cost up to €600,000.

Photography Restrictions: Taking or sharing photos without consent, especially of minors or in private settings, violates privacy laws. Filming police or government sites risks €30,000 fines. Drone use is often banned.

Smoking While Driving: Smoking in cars is legal, but flicking ash or butts out the window invites hefty fines. Holding a cigarette can be deemed a distraction, viola-

ting driving laws.

Weapons Laws: Carrying knives or self-defence items like pepper spray without permits is illegal. Firearms require specific licences.

Spain prioritises public order and safety, so know the rules to enjoy your stay.

Carry official photo ID at all times.

Spain’s H sticker

SPAIN’S DGT has finally cleared the confusion around the new H sticker, the small yellow badge that acts as a golden ticket for classic cars entering Low Emission Zones (ZBE). Introduced under Royal Decree 892/2024, in force since October 1, 2024, the reflective yellow disc with a black ‘H’ identifies a vehicle as historic and grants access to restricted urban areas where many modern cars without the right eco-label are barred.

Getting the H is simple: no online portal, no bureaucracy. The stickers are sold over the counter at tobacconists, Correos post offices and DGT offices. Once displayed on the windscreen, it tells police and wardens your car is officially recognised as historic. But eligibility matters. In DGT terms, ‘historic’ doesn’t just mean ‘old’. Vehicles must be at least 30 years from first registration or build and retain their original character without major alterations.

Two groups qualify. Group A covers historic cars with standard Spanish plates and valid ITV, while Group B applies to those on historic plates or with special documentation but still meeting the definition. Either way, the sticker is only valid once the vehicle has been catalogued as historic; the badge itself doesn’t create status.

For owners, this is a breakthrough. Without the H, many genuine classics risk being refused entry to city centres or tangled in roadside checks.

Returning items in Spain E-scooter law

IF you’ve ever tried returning something and heard ‘no devoluciones’, you’re not alone, but knowing your rights can help.

Spanish law doesn’t give you an automatic right to return items in shops unless they’re faulty. According to Administra

no statutory right to return non-defective goods bought in person.

Many retailers offer a voluntary return policy within a set period, but often require a receipt. Always check the in-store policy before buying.

Under EU and Spanish law, items bought online,

from a door-to-door seller (contrato a distancia) come with a 14-day cooling-off period from delivery. You can cancel without reason, and must be provided with a cancellation form. Exceptions include plane and concert tickets, and personalised goods.

To cancel, notify within 14 days. Once cancelled, you have 14 days to return the item. Unless stated otherwise, return postage is your responsibility. Refunds must cover the full purchase and delivery costs, paid within 14 days - though sellers may wait for the item or proof of return.

Under Directive (EU) 2019/771, faulty items have a two-year guarantee. Defects appearing within 12 months are presumed to exist at purchase.

Second-hand goods may have a one-year guarantee if agreed in writing.

Even digital purchases are covered by EU law. Under Directive (EU) 2019/770, faulty items can be refunded or replaced - even if you ‘paid’ using personal data.

NEW regulations for electric scooters in Spain, as ratified by Congress, aim to improve road safety and come in line with EU standards. Targeting Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) like electric scooters, but not traditional bicycles, the law addresses the rapid rise of e-scooters in Spanish cities. From 2026, Under the amended Automobile Insurance Act, e-scooter owners must obtain liability insurance to cover third-party damages, protecting accident victims previously left vulnerable by uninsured riders.

E-scooters must be registered with the DGT, requiring details like make, model, and serial number, though specific procedures and costs are still pending. Scooters sold after January 22, 2024, need a VMP certificate ensuring compliance with safety standards, including brakes, lights, and a 25 km/h speed cap. Pre-2024 scooters can be used until January 22, 2027, but must be registered by January 2026. A 14 km/h speed limit addresses high-speed riding concerns, and visible identification, like licence plates, is under consideration. Traditional bicycles and pedelecs (e-bikes with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h) are exempt from these rules. Some e-bikes (L1e-A, up to 25 km/h and 1000 W) may fall under PMV regulations, but most remain treated as bicycles, requiring no insurance or registration. Cyclists must follow existing rules, like helmet use for certain riders, lights at night, and adherence to cycle lanes.

The Longoria-Nadal connection

HOSTED by Rafael Nadal’s sister, Maribel Nadal, actress, producer, and director Eva Longoria visited the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca to tour the installations and play padel tennis.

Maribel took a photo there with Longoria and posted it on Instagram, where she wrote, “What a joy to welcome great friends to the Rafal Nadal Academy.

“Ms Nadal is the Deputy General Manager of the academy, and a long-time friend of Longoria, whom

she met at the annual Hexagon Cup in Madrid, a padel tennis competition in which they both compete,” the Rafael Nadal Academy said in an August 25 statement on their website.

Eva Longoria owns the Eleven Eleven team, and Maribel is the face of the Rafa Nadal Academy Team, which finished runner-up in the last edition, said the academy, which is located in Manacor.

While at the academy, the actress demonstrated her padel tennis prowess on the

courts, on which she played against Gemma Triay, the world number one in the FIP padel rankings.

The winner of the match was not revealed publicly and instead was left to one’s imagination.

Triay was at the academy to participate in an expansion announcement event.

“How exciting!” the academy wrote on Instagram.

“Gemma Triay and Maribel Nadal have inaugurated the academy’s three new indoor padel courts. We now have 19 courts in total!”

THE Escarrer Jaume family announced the death of Ana María Jaume Vanrell on Tuesday, August 26, in Palma, according to Europa Press. The loss of their mother has left the Mallorcan hotel clan in dismay, as it comes just months after the

Meliá Hotels in mourning Enhancing

passing of Meliá founder Gabriel Escarrer Juliá.

In a press release, the Escarrers expressed their sorrow, announcing that, in the early hours of Tuesday, August 26, “our mother, Ana María Jaume Vanrell, passed away. Her sudden loss, just nine months after the death of our father, founder of Meliá Hotels International, widens the void we still feel at her passing, and unites us even further in the memory and affection that both of them knew how to sow in our family.”

Of the lifelong companion of one of the great pioneers of Spanish tourism, her chil-

dren highlight “the memory of her big heart, her enormous intuition and empathy, and the generosity with which she made those close to her feel like family.”

Gabriel Escarrer and his

SEASONAL services on Palma’s beaches will continue to be a highly profitable business despite the planned reduction in sunbeds and umbrellas that the city council has planned for the next four years, from 2026 until 2029.

The municipality has already requested authorisation from the Coastal Authority to use 33,732 square metres with 5,000 sunbeds, 2,500 umbrellas, 26 showers, two kiosks, nautical equipment rental units, and other services. Palma has foreseen reducing by 35 per cent the number of sunbeds and umbrellas. The city council has already announced that occupancy will be further reduced compared to previous editions to compensate for the progressive loss of sand in recent decades.

The estimated income from these services is €6.3 million per annum. This covers the beaches of Cala Major, Ciudad Jardín, Cala Es-

countries.

tancia and Playa de Palma. In addition, there is Can Pere Antoni beach, which hasn’t been included in the financial report that provides this estimate. Initially, the new plans mean contractors have to invest an estimated €2 million in beach area enhancement, with more than 50 per cent of that amount being related to services that generate income.

The new plans contemplate four beach volleyball courts, one handball court and one football court for Playa de Palma. Also, a kiosk in Cala Major will be removed, but a new one will open in Ciudad Jardín.

Tom Cruise sighted

ALWAYS smiling and friendly with the press and people in general; seemingly approachable and without a trace of arrogance, despite his success in film, which includes an Oscar, three Golden Globes, and an honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes, Tom Cruise, 63, is still one of the most prominent stars at any international event.

Recently, the Mission Impossible superstar made headlines again in Spain, and not because of a movie premiere, but because he was seen in Mallorca with Cuban star Ana de Armas, another global big screen actress, according to several news outlets.

However, over the period August 18-22, Cruise was seen alone in Mallorca once and did not appear anywhere for the fo-

llowing 36 hours, with many whispering that he remained recluse at his hotel.

There could, however, be a very slim chance that Armas joined him in the highly secret stay, but there’s no confirmation of that having occurred, as she was in Spain last week as well.

Back in July, Cruise and Bond girl Armas were seen enjoying a Mallorca holiday together, furthering a wildfire of romance rumours between the couple. Cruise, 63, and de Armas, 37, have been seen together in several locations since early this year, and then in Mallorca taking their romance to the soft and sandy shores of the Balearic Islands. In December, Cruise was seen scouting the island with Alejandro Iñarritu for a film location.

Scam QR codes

THE Port Authority of the Balearic Islands (APB) has detected an attempted fraud using parking payment machines near the port of Palma. This involved QR codes leading to a fake website requesting users’ bank details.

In a post on X, the port authority warns users to beware of QR codes on parking meters and check if they have been tampered with, but it is probably best to avoid using them.

“We have detected the fake placement of fake QR codes on stickers that say ‘Escanea y paga’ (Scan and pay). This is a fraudulent sticker. If one is seen on a parking meter, please inform us of its location immediately on 971 228 487. We appreciate your collaboration,” the authority noted.

The Port Police are already working to remove

these stickers, but they have requested public assistance in alerting users to this situation.

A few months ago, the National Police warned of the use of these codes to obtain personal data from anyone who scanned the drawing with their mobile phone.

Authorities cautioned that these fake codes were being

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placed on parking meters, as payment is usually made through the app, ie, using a mobile phone.

This scam is quite sophisticated, as it not only uses a fake QR code to place it where the real one should be, but also clones the appearance of the real website we’d expect to open when scanned.

Mallorca’s secluded getaways

WITH the summer temperatures, and surging summer crowds, overheating visitors and residents of Mallorca may be desperate to find shade and cool water that isn’t overloaded with tourists.

Luckily, there are still many beautiful remote spots on the island that boast natural shade, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views, where visitors can go to beat the heat. Among virgin earth and bright green vegetation that seems untouched by humanity, the Estreta Cove, located on the eastern coast near Portcolom, is a sparkling gem of Mallorca.

With clear sapphire waters, Estreta Cove is a rock cove and only accessible by foot, meaning a lot less tourists, giving it a very secluded and almost abandoned feel - perfect for the curious explorer or the lazy beach bum.

Mallorca also boasts several remote towns, which thrive in a sleepy island lifestyle and enjoy fantastic views with little commotion.

Santanyi is one of these; located in the northeast of Mallorca with an authentic small-town charm and beautiful paved streets, it’s the perfect place for a shady afternoon under its tall green trees or taking a dip in its bright blue waters.

Moreover, Santanyi is located near some incredible coves of its own. Authentically Mallorcan, visitors can get a taste of the true Mallorquín lifestyle by traversing its markets, appreciating its historical architecture, or taking a siesta by the water.

Finally, an area a bit higher in altitude: the scenic Valldemossa, Mallorca’s must-see mountain town perched in the northwest of the island.

With breathtaking views, a small village feel, and cobbled streets, it’s the ultimate place to get away from the hustle and bustle to breathe fresh mountain air. Packed with personality, it attracts hikers and cyclists, history buffs who come to gawk at the architecture, and anyone who wants to experience a truly unique - and uniquely Mallorcan - village.

The ‘walker thief’

NOW known as the ‘Walker Thief’, a 70-yearold man, who used a walker, has been arrested in Palma as the alleged perpetrator of a theft of more than €2,000 at Son Sant Joan Airport last June. The victim, a tourist recently arrived on the island, was robbed while picking up her rental car.

According to the National Police, the septuagenarian used his walker not only to move around, but also to hide the stolen objects, which allowed him to get away from the place quickly despite his age.

The man, with grey hair, wearing a white summer shirt, shorts, and sneakers, used the seat of his walker to tuck away the stolen items, and thanks to his harmless appearan-

ce, he managed to flee the scene unperceived.

The airport’s private security team was key to the investigation. After reviewing security camera footage, they alerted the National Police, who were able to identify and locate the offender, who had already left the scene but was arrested shortly after on August 18.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the elderly man, who has an extensive criminal record, is linked to other similar thefts committed at Son Sant Joan Airport. The case has befuddled travellers and led to increased surveillance at key points at Palma airport, reminding them that appearances can be deceiving.

Jessie J returns to Mallorca

TOP British singer Jessie J took advantage of a sunsoaked family holiday in Mallorca, accompanied by her son Sky and boyfriend Chanan Safir Colman, after undergoing a mastectomy amid her battle with breast cancer.

The 37-year-old artist documented her return to Mallorca in a recent Instagram post, where she shared that she travelled to the Spanish island to reunite with Chanan and his family.

“We flew to meet Daddy in Spain (and Grandpa, Nay Nay, the aunts, the uncle, and the cousins) hahaha,” she wrote.

During their stay, Jessie, Chanan, and Sky enjoyed time outdoors in a villa with a spacious garden, soaking up the sun and enjoying quality family time. They also went to the stadium to see RCD Mallorca in action.

The ‘Price Tag’ sin-

ger radiated in photos showing off her natural beauty in a fitted white tee and matching pants, and in a daring mirror selfie, she sported a tiny green top, black miniskirt, and a dark cowboy hat.

The trip comes after Jessie shared how the illness made her feel like it was ‘stealing time’ from her son and the changes in her body following her mastectomy.

On social media, she offered an update on her recovery, explaining that her hair has been falling out since the surgery and that she still has ‘quite a few strands’ due to axillary web syndrome, which can cause pain and restricted movement after lymph node removal.

Elrow XXL has landed

WITH its most extreme madness, Elrow XXL takes place on Saturday August 30 at Son Fusteret, where the organisers of the international event will set up four stages with psychedelic scenography and an extraordinary musical selection for the 12 hallucinating hours of music for more than 20,000 people.

“Mallorca is gearing up for the most explosive festival of the season: Elrow XXL, an unprecedented experience that will transform the island into the epicenter of electronic music,” El Row event organisers said on their website.

The lineup, featuring more than 30 international and national artists, including at least 19 recognised DJs, tons of confetti, promises a day full of rhythm, from the most vibrant sounds of techno to the

Credit: @elrowofficial/Instagram

most powerful hard techno. Elrow also has surprises in store that will make this edition a legendary event, fusing music, art, and spectacle in a high-energy pirate adventure. It’s an insane festival that immerses attendees in a musical experience that combines the best of alternative music with stunning visual and theatrical production.

With doors open from 12.00pm until midnight, Elrow XXL is not just a fes-

A magical immersive musical experience that combines alternative music with sensory and visual effects as well as theatricals.

tival, it’s a sensory journey where fantasy and celebration come together.

Elrow, held at the Trui Son Fusteret venue, hosted the biggest event for lovers of good music and dancing in Mallorca last year, so this year’s attendees can expect it to be even bigger.

The Marc Fosh experience RESTAURANT REVIEW

11th Piano Festival

THE Torre de Canyamel International Piano Festival celebrates its 11th edition. It is known for its prestigious competition, which this year takes place from August 31 to September 4, gathering prominent pianists from the United Kingdom, Italy, Croatia and Russia.

The historic Torre de Canyamel said the event, already established as a benchmark on the Mallorcan music scene, will offer four exceptional concerts in the incomparable setting of the 13th-century defence tower, on Sunday, August 31 and Monday, September 1, Wednesday, September 3, and Thursday, September 4, at 8.30pm.

The festival opens with renowned British pianist Murray McLachlan offering a programme entitled Fantasies and Anniversaries, featuring works by J S Bach, Satie, Ravel, Busoni, and Stevenson.

On September 1, Italian-American pianist Giulia Contaldo will present Myths,

Legends, and Stories, featuring pieces by Debussy, Liszt, Gluck, Szymanowski, and Liszt.

On September 3, it will be the turn of the young Croatian pianist Irena Radić, with the programme Between the Tangible and the Dreamed, which includes works by Rachmaninov, Debussy, Medtner, and Chopin.

Finally, on September 4, Russian pianist Denis Burstein will close the festival with the recital Lyrical Miniatures: From Folk to Reverie, featuring works by Grieg, Rachmaninov, Scriabin, and Medtner.

has been superbly converted

ALTHOUGH tucked away along a narrow street in the historic quarter of Palma, this restaurant, part of a 17th-century seminary that has been superbly converted into the Convent de La Missió hotel, comes as a delightful surprise.

In its meticulous modern interior, featuring brightly lit spaces with a minimalist feel and a pleasant patio-terrace, discover the cuisine of Marc Fosh, the first British chef to be awarded a Michelin star on Spanish soil.

Marc’s culinary philosophy brings together flavour, technique, artistry, creativity and highlights, through simply constructed yet sophisticated combinations, the seasonal Mediterranean ingredients that he fell in love with when he first came to the island.

The focus of his cuisine is on his various menus: Lunch, Weekly Menu, the Marc Lunch, Marc and Aromas del

gastronomic philosophy, culinary artistry and Mediterranean ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience.

Mediterráneo, which is only available for dinner.

Guided by nature, Marc’s kitchen will reflect the seasons. Thinking globally and sourcing locally is not just politically correct; it’s also personally rewarding for the

Credit: Marc Fosh/Website

Ryan Paris at Es Jardí

farmer, the chef and the di-

“Our Mediterranean culinary garden, surrounded by red earth and olive trees, grows unique, seasonally appropriate crops using organic and sustainable techniques,” Marc says. “While it is still early days, we hope that very soon our garden will be supplying many of the herbs and vegetables that you’ll find on your plate.”

Carrer de la Missió, 7, Centre, Palma. 971 720 114

ITALIAN artist Ryan Paris, who gained international fame in the 1980s with his classic hit single, ‘Dolce Vita’, is Es Jardi’s special guest on Saturday August 30 in collaboration with Children of the 80s. Dolce Vita was written and produced by Perluigi Giombini.

“On Saturday (August 30) starting at 7pm, we’ll put the finishing touches on Es Jardí with Children of the 80s, in the grand party that celebrates 10 years of unforgettable nights of dancing and reminiscing about an unforgettable era,” Es Jardí Mallorca wrote on their website.

Presently, Ryan, who-

Ryan Paris, 72 years old,

and produce music, as well as performing live.

se real name is Fabio Roscioli and is 72 years of age, continues to record and produce songs; his most recent releases include the songs ‘You Are My Life’, ‘Buonasera Dolce Vita’ and ‘Love on Ice’.

During his youth, Paris was active in Rome’s rock music scene, performing with local bands. In 1982, while preparing for the quarter-finals of the first Rock Festival at Rome’s Piper Club, his band lost their keyboar-

dist, who was called up for military service.

Through a drummer’s connection, Paris met Fabio Liberatori of the band Stadio, who introduced him to producer and composer Pierluigi Giombini, a pivotal moment in his career.

Children of the 80s is a popular and fun themed event in which you can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the 80s with live music by some of the best-known artists and bands of that era.

Gibraltar rail link

The proposed route at a glance: the Morocco–Spain undersea rail link would run beneath the Strait of Gibraltar, tying Tangier to the Campo de Gibraltar (Tarifa/ Algeciras).

EUROPE’S long-discussed dream of connecting to Africa by train has returned to the spotlight, as Spain and Morocco push forward with plans for an undersea tunnel beneath the Strait of Gibraltar. Madrid has allocated €1.6 million for new feasibility studies, while Rabat has signalled strong support, sparking renewed optimism that the project could become reality.

The tunnel, envisioned as a 42-kilometre rail link diving 475 metres below sea level, could transform travel and trade between Europe and Africa. Unlike ferries, which are vulnerable to rough seas, the tunnel would provide a permanent and reliable crossing, offering faster journeys for passengers and a low-carbon freight option that aligns with the EU’s Green Deal ambitions. Ferry operators are also modernising, with new Tarifa–

INTERVIEW

Tangier services set for 2025, but the tunnel would add resilience, smoothing congestion and securing year-round movement.

For Spain, it would cement its role as Europe’s southern rail hub, while Morocco would strengthen its position as a strategic gateway between Africa and Europe. Beyond infrastructure, the project carries symbolic weight.

A fixed link would deepen cultural and political ties, easing travel for families, workers, and tourists while enhancing Morocco’s growing international profile.

Challenges remain daunting. The strait is geologically complex and seismically active, with environmental campaigners raising concerns over marine ecosystems and migratory routes. The financial scale is immense, requiring EU support. For now, improved ferry services are the near-term reality.

Speaking European: María Lorelei Acuña Carrillo

Fleeing years of nationwide violence in Mexico, María Lorelei Acuña Carrillo arrived in Spain on November 29, 2023, with her husband and two boys, Santi, two, and Jaime, nine, to start a new life away from Culiacan, where violence is an everyday thing.

“I LOOK back now and can’t believe how accustomed I had become to hearing gunshots and people being killed. For us, that was normal,” Lorelei told Euro Weekly News

“In my hometown, it’s a common habit to check newspapers first thing every morning to find out which of your friends or relatives have been killed or kidnapped the night before,” she added.

Lorelei and her family are happy to be in Spain, away from the violence back home, despite the many challenges they face due to bureaucracy.

Culiacan is the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Sinaloa, where in the first seven months of 2025, over 1,800 people were murdered and 2,000 were forcibly disappeared.

Lorelei, a 32-year-old architect, and her husband, Raúl Antonio Villegas, a biochemist, have quickly learned to appreciate and value a country where, in all of 2024, only 384 homicides were reported.

“However, despite that I got Spanish

Online petition

DURING the first half of this year, vets, pet owners, and supporters held demonstrations in major Spanish cities to demand changes to new laws introduced in January.

The reforms restrict vets’ ability to prescribe antibiotics and other medications, forbidding the use of drugs classified for human use, even when these are cheaper than veterinary-only alternatives.

A key example is alopurinol, used to treat leishmaniasis, a deadly canine disease common in Mediterranean dogs but rare in humans. Classified for human use, vets are no longer allowed to prescribe it for dogs, leaving only veterinary drugs up to 20 times more expensive.

Since January, vets have also faced res -

trictions on serum use, prescribing according to outdated leaflets, and administering drugs from their stock only on the day of consultation.

Follow-up treatment required clients to buy a full pack from a pharmacy, even if only a few doses were needed.

Following widespread protests, lawmakers recently reversed this rule, allowing vets to provide a complete course from their stock. Please scan the QR Code to go to the online petition in support of Pets & Vets. Almost 215,000 people have signed, with a target of 500,000 for full legal reversal.

nationality through my dad, my husband and I struggle as do most immigrants. Our university degrees aren’t recognised, it took Raul 13 months to get a work permit, and he currently works as a waiter.”

She is grateful, though, that her third child, “my gorgeous little girl was born healthy thanks to Spain’s free health system.”

Revamping gadgets

BITTERFELD, a small town south of Berlin, is slowly becoming a hub for the recycling of rare earth metals, recovering them from old electronics. Last year, German company Heraeus opened the largest earth metal recycling plant in Europe there, and since then, the facility has been working to achieve its recycling goals.

Endless leave

A TEACHER from North Rhine-Westphalia has been on extended sick leave for more than 15 years while still receiving full pay. The high school teacher, who first reported being sick in 2009, was ordered to complete a mandatory medical exam this year to see if she is fit to work. She has been earning more than €5,000 a month.

EURO PRESS

Art auction

THE largest private art collection in Denmark is going up for sale after Ole Faarup, the country’s famed art collector and visionary, passed away in March of this year at the age of 90.

The art collection, which was amassed over 50 years, will be sold by Christie’s, world-famous art and luxury auction house.

Proceeds from the sale will benefit The Ole Faarup Art Foundation.

Wine win

THE Douro Region of Portugal has seen a recent wave of American visitors flocking there for the beginning of wine season. Visitors from the US now represent the largest group of foreign tourists in the region. Once a niche market, the word is now getting out about Douro’s famous wine and the tranquillity of its valley.

Cash bust

PORTUGUESE police have confiscated a total of €300,000 in cash being transported by a Chinese father-son duo in the north of Portugal. Neither man could justify the origin of the money, nor specify where it was being taken or why. The two men are now facing charges of fiscal fraud as well as money laundering.

Orange attack

TELEPHONE communications company

Orange Belgium has confirmed it was the target of a cyber attack at the end of July that affected around 850,000 customer accounts. The company has urged Orange customers to be on alert for suspicious communications and has already implemented additional security measures.

Dig discovery

MORE than 250 skeletons, as well as the remains of a Roman grave, have been unearthed in Ghent park at a dig in the Dampoort district. Researchers also found burial vaults, objects such as rings, shroud buttons and coffin decorations, as well as a pottery fragment believed to be part of an inkpot dating back to 150-300 AD.

Toilet trouble

MANY Dutch residents report avoiding outdoor activities and events due to a lack of public toilets. It is also not permitted to urinate in nature in a public place in the Netherlands. An estimated one - two million Dutch residents suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, and another 100,000 with chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Airbnb accusation

A MAN from Noordwijk, aged 32, is accused of scamming tenants by listing Airbnb holiday lets as available homes. Upon arriving at what they thought was the address of their new flat, they would find it already occupied and the suspect gone. At least 17 people have fallen victim. In addition, the suspect is also charged with stealing a watch.

PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM

GERMANY IRELAND

Pesticide prohibition

THE French government has upheld its ban on a bee-killing pesticide in the new revision of a law. Farmers’ unions criticised the ruling, but the French Constitutional Council maintained that the pesticide was harmful to humans as well as bees, and violated the constitutional right to a healthy environment.

Contraband king

AN inmate at a French prison was able to smuggle a wide variety of goods into the facility by corrupting the guards. The inmate, Samy R, ran a thriving trade system among his peers, and a search of his cell revealed a wide variety of items including smoked duck breast, an Xbox, e-cigarettes, chocolate from Algeria, and a blender.

Paddling Pope

POPE LEO XIV was recently gifted a ping pong paddle and decided to try it out during his weekly general audience in the Vatican’s Paul VI Room. Leo, who is also known to love tennis, hit a ball in the air a few times with the paddle, to the amusement of everyone attending. The gifted paddle bore his papal emblem.

Gorilla gift

THE first baby gorilla in nearly 50 years was born in Italy, at the Fasano Zoosafari in the province of Brindisi. The facility expressed their happiness at the event, stating it is not only a rare occurrence but also a beacon of hope for the conservation of the species. The baby is carefully protectedand cuddled - by its mother and father.

NORWAY

Rod restrictions

FISHING tourists now have new rules regarding how many fish they can take out of Norwegian fjords. The new limits, which went into effect on August 1, aim to control fish smuggling and sustain native fish populations. The effort was met with worry that fishing tourists will instead go elsewhere for their big catches.

Virus vetting

OSLO’S historic Frognerseteren restaurant, which has been a local landmark for the past 134 years, has reopened after a hepatitis A virus scare. The restaurant closed when local residents fell ill after having eaten there. An extensive health evaluation was carried out, and the famed eatery has since reopened, all violations corrected.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Zero accidents

THE Finnish capital of Helsinki is celebrating an entire year without a traffic fatality. With almost 690,000 people, it is one of the largest cities to achieve this feat. It has been able to achieve this mainly by reducing speed limits, identifying important pedestrian routes, and building infrastructure accordingly.

Tired teachers

TEACHERS in Finland have voiced protest against a proposal to push back school summer holidays by two weeks. The Ministry of Education had launched an investigation on the effects this shift might have, but teachers cited exhaustion for both students and their teachers by the end of the school year.

Scrumptious statistics

THE country of Sweden has been dubbed one of the best European countries for restaurant hygiene and food safety. Not only does the country have low food-related illnesses per capita, Stockholm also has fewer restaurant closures per capita compared to many other European capital cities.

Bear blowout

THE annual bear hunt in Sweden has faced opposition from the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, who say that the maximum number of bears that may be shot this year (465) is too high. The Swedish County Administrative Board has argued that the number is 20 fewer than last year. The species is strictly protected in Sweden.

Shopping scam

FACEBOOK users in Ireland are being targeted by a scam wherein fake pages sell various items, masquerading as popular Irish shops. The websites all use the e-commerce platform Shopify, and trick customers into buying low-quality items, or items that never arrive at all. In total, 95 individual scam pages have been found.

Bountiful butterflies

IRELAND has seen an exponential - and hopeful - rise in the butterfly populations this year, following a massive downtick during 2023 and 2024. A combination of improved weather, better management of gardens, and butterflies being encouraged to produce a smaller second generation, has helped the populations to soar.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Robinhood’s AI

ROBINHOOD has launched Cortex Digests in the UK, an AI-powered tool summarising why stocks move using news, analyst ratings, market data, and trading activity. Free to users, it’s the first UK product from Robinhood Cortex, already rolled out to US customers.

Civil Service

THE Northern Ireland Civil Service has launched a recruitment drive for around 500 permanent Executive Officer 2 posts across multiple departments. Offering salaries from £30,548 plus benefits, the roles close for applications on August 29.

Coffee culture

SPAIN is seeing a boom in specialty coffee, with Madrid and Barcelona hosting dozens of ‘third wave’ cafés as Google searches surge. While the UK market has plateaued after early growth, Spain’s scene is still in its romantic phase, blending lifestyle and quality.

Trump tariffs

TRUMP’S tariffs have hit Spanish exports hard, with olive oil sales to the US -25.8 per cent and car exports -16.7 per cent in the first half of 2025. Overall, Spain’s trade deficit with the US has jumped 37 per cent. (Eurostat data.)

Hospitality rates

SPANISH hospitality rates have risen 22 per cent, pricing many locals out of staycations, according to Turespaña. VB Group CEO Jorge Espinós noted stagnant real incomes in Spain since the pandemic, while rising household incomes abroad, particularly in the UK, keep Spain attractive.

STAT OF WEEK

The growth of air traffic in Spain exceeded the European average by percentage points in July. 0.6

Spain’s public debt

SPAIN’S public debt stood at 103.4 per cent of GDP in June, marking a drop of 1.9 percentage points compared with the same month last year, according to the Banco de España.

While the debt-to-GDP ratio declined, the total amount of debt in cash terms continued to rise. Spain’s overall public debt reached €1.69 trillion, an increase of 4 per cent compared with June 2024.

The report added, ‘The debt of the Social Security Administrations stood at €126 billion, 8.6 per cent more than a year earlier and equal to 7.7 per cent of GDP.’

Looking at the structure of the debt, long-term bonds and securities rose by 4.6 per cent compared with June 2024, while long-term loans declined by 0.5 per cent. Short-term debt instruments were

also up, showing a 3.8 per cent increase year-on-year.

Even with its small decline, Spain’s debt remains among the highest in the euro area. According to Eurostat, the average debt-toGDP ratio across the eurozone was 88 per cent in early 2025.

Aggressive crypto tax

SPAIN’S taxation of cryptocurrency is under fire, with experts warning investors lack fair protection.

A recent case saw a compliant investor, who had already paid €5 million in taxes, hit three years later with an extra €9 million bill - despite no sales or profits. The Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT) classed movements of tokens into decentralised finance (DeFi) protocols, such as loans or staking, as taxable events. The investor’s lawyer told Periodista Digital, “The AEAT has taxed something that is not income... no gain, no change of ownership, no profit obtained.”

Article 33 of Spain’s tax law requires actual wealth in-

Green tourism

CAIXABANK has joined Green & Human, becoming the only financial institution in Spain’s leading sustainable tourism alliance.

The bank will support projects aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on financing, innovation, and inclusion.

David Rico, Managing Director of CaixaBank Hotels & Tourism, said the goal is to ‘transform tourism into a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative model.’ Green & Human projects have already cut 70 tonnes of CO2 and identified €120 million in initiatives.

The Banco de España confirmed that updated figures for July 2025 will be published on September 17, with detailed second-quarter statistics scheduled for September 30. Spain’s public debt has now fallen for the second consecutive year in relation to GDP.

crease, but critics say AEAT’s stance exceeds Spanish and EU legislation. Appeals go through the Finance Ministry’s TEAC, but investors must prepay or provides guarantees while accounts may be frozen.

Lullius Partners noted, “Spanish tax legislation still lacks clear guidelines on how cryptocurrency holdings should be taxed.” (Cited by Periodista Digital.)

Air Europa

TURKISH AIRLINES will invest €300 million for a 26–27 per cent stake in Spain’s Air Europa, making it the carrier’s second-largest shareholder after the Hidalgo family.

The deal, signed August 19, allows Air Europa owner Globalia to clear €475 million in pandemic debt. €275 million will begin as a loan, later converted into shares pending regulatory approval.

The move places Turkish Airlines ahead of Iberia’s parent IAG, which holds 20 per cent, after its full takeover attempt was blocked.

INTERSPORT SPAIN has entered liquidation after Barcelona’s Court No. 3 rejected its rescue plans. The group, comprising Intersport SL, Intersport Retail One SL, and Intersports CCS SA, failed to secure creditor approval for proposals including a 70 per cent debt write-off. Stores will stay open until the end of summer, while RCD Legal manages liquidation. Despite global revenue of €14 billion in 2024, Spain’s division faced unsustainable debt after seven years of financial struggles. Intersport France showed interest but withdrew.

BANKS in Spain are nearing record profits, with return on equity hitting 14.43 per cent in Q1 2025, close to the 14.66 per cent peak in 2021, according to the Bank of Spain. The six largest banks posted combined profits of €17.1 billion in the first half, up 8.5 per cent year-on-year, led by Santander and BBVA. Solvency also improved, with total capital ratio rising to 17.73 per cent and non-performing loans falling to 2.86 per cent.

THE latest Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) survey (July 2024-June 2025) has revealed the best and worst UK banks. Monzo topped rankings for both personal and business accounts in Great Britain, with Chase and Starling Bank close behind. Newcomer Mettle, from NatWest, placed second for business accounts. At the bottom, RBS finished last for personal accounts, while The Co-operative Bank scored lowest for business customers. In Northern Ireland, Monzo again led personal accounts, while Santander topped business banking. Allied Irish Banks ranked lowest in both categories.

THE British Business Bank has agreed an ENABLE Guarantee transaction of up to £300m with Close Brothers, boosting lending capacity for UK small businesses. The deal supports Close Brothers Asset Finance, covering hire purchase, leasing, and sale-and-hire purchase facilities. Asset finance hit a record £23.5bn in 2024, with one-third of UK investment in vehicles, machinery and equipment funded this way, according to the Finance & Leasing Association. Michael Strevens of the British Business Bank said the move ensures small firms ‘continue to access the finance they need - especially in tougher times’.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Quantum research

IBERDROLA España and the Basque Government have signed a long-term deal to boost quantum research under the BasQ Strategy. The partnership aims to apply quantum computing to smart grids, energy efficiency, and weather forecasting, strengthening the Basque Country’s role as a European innovation hub.

Cautious employers

UK private-sector pay settlements held at 3 per cent in the three months to July, down from 4 per cent last year, Brightmine said. Employers remain cautious amid economic uncertainty, April’s tax hike, and the looming autumn budget despite modest growth figures.

SPAIN has launched a major push to replace diesel trains with greener alternatives, with the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility beginning a data-gathering campaign that will run until September 2025.

The ministry is collecting technical and economic data on hydrogen-powered and battery-operated trains to see if they could replace diesel on key secondary routes.

The selected lines connect smaller cities and rural regions, where diesel remains the only option for mobility.

Spain’s national infrastructure operator Adif oversees an 11,672 km rail

Greener trains

SPAIN has blocked over 50 million scam calls and texts in six months under new rules targeting fraudulent communications. Since March, telecoms Orange, Vodafone and Telefónica have stopped nearly 48 million fake calls and 2.2 million scam SMS. Minister for Digital Transformation Óscar López said scams - often fake deliveries, bank impersonations or robotic job offers - were causing major economic damage. In June, Spain

Scam calls

banned telemarketing via mobile numbers, though fraudsters adapt. Scam calls now average 435,000 daily, with SMS detections up 86 per cent. Next year, the CNMC will launch an SMS sender code database to verify official senders like Correos or the DGT. Authorities urge vigilance.

network, but only 57.5 per cent is electrified. Authorities face a choice between full electrification and hydrogen or battery trains. Electric is the most reliable long-term option, with lower operational costs and efficiency gains. Hydrogen and battery trains promise reduced emissions but require new infrastructure and heavy investment.

The ministry’s study will compare these options in detail before deciding where to prioritise funding.

The strategy is part of Spain’s commitment to the European Commission’s climate goals, which require member states to cut transport emissions and modernise infrastructure.

By the end of 2026, Spain is expected to reveal whether it will electrify more of its network or invest heavily in hydrogen and battery technology.

Mo Gawdat

FORMER Google X boss Mo Gawdat says AI will soon replace white-collar jobs from podcasters to CEOs, calling claims that will create work ‘100 per cent crap’. Predicting a ‘short-term dystopia’ by 2027, he warned, “Unless you’re in the top 0.1 per cent, you’re a peasant.” Tech leaders like Nvidia’s Jensen Huang strongly disagree.

Financial crime

A THEMIS survey of 74 senior leaders found 69 per cent of firms are not yet using AI in anti-financial crime systems, but over 80 per cent plan adoption by 2030. Efficiency and tackling new risks drive uptake, though legacy tech, knowledge gaps, and regulatory uncertainty remain key barriers.

Farewell Javier Sierra

THE Real Estate industry mourns the sudden passing of Javier Sierra, president of Remax España, who died in Madrid on August 22, 2025, at age 64. Sierra, a revolutionary figure in Spanish real estate, leaves a lasting legacy as a pioneer and inspiring leader.

Born in Madrid in December 1960, Sierra introduced Remax to Europe in 1995, establishing the brand in Spain and transforming the sector with a collaborative, professional model centred on real estate agents. “Javier Sierra was a visionary who drove Remax’s growth in Spain,” said Noel Picou, manager at Remax Grupo Inmomas Benidorm. “His entrepreneurial spirit will always inspire.”

A mathematics graduate, Sierra co-founded AEGI in 1998 and MLS España in 2002, serving as its president since 2007.

Correos pauses US parcels

His leadership earned REMAX España accolades, including REMAX International’s Best Regional Director award in 1999. Under his guidance, the company surpassed 2,000 agents in 2018 and celebrated a record-breaking 2024, marking its 30th anniversary in 2025. Beyond his professional achievements, Sierra was beloved for his humanity and humour. “He was well ahead of his time,” shared

Credit: Remax España

Hola! Real Estate Malaga, crediting him with professionalising the industry. Remax Marítima Estepona added, “His influence shaped our service. We’ll always cherish our memories with him.”

Survived by his family and the Remax España community, Sierra’s vision will continue to shape Spanish real estate, leaving an enduring legacy of innovation and excellence.

IT has been announced that Spain’s postal operator Correos has stopped accepting low-value parcels bound for the United States and Puerto Rico.

The move, effective from August 25, follows Washington’s decision to scrap the long-running $800 ‘de minimis’ duty-free allowance. Parcels admitted before midnight on August 24 are still in the system, but anything sent after must wait until Correos updates its workflows.

The US change, effective August 29, means all imports will now face customs duties, with rates tied to value and origin. That forces postal operators to adapt: more paperwork, more data, and systems to collect duties upfront. Until those upgrades are in place, Correos has joined several European counterparts in pausing the cheap-parcel stream.

The groups hardest hit are small sellers, marketplace traders and individuals sending inexpensive goods or gifts. For now, Correos is still moving letters, documents, books, and gifts between private individuals up to

$100. Shipments above $800 can also go through, but they’ll be subject to the new duties.

In the short term, senders are advised to hold parcels or switch to documents and books. Businesses should warn US customers about delays and start re-pricing orders to factor in duties and handling fees. Longer term, Correos says it is working with partners on a fix that will allow duty collection at origin and the new customs data hand-offs demanded by Washington. No restart date has been given, but regular updates have been promised.

Buying a yacht guide

SPAIN’S extensive coastline and scenic harbours make it a prime destination for sailing enthusiasts, and owning a yacht can be a dream come true. Prospective buyers, however, must navigate legal, financial, and practical considerations before setting sail. Spain offers a wide range of vessels, from small sailing yachts to luxury motorboats, available new through authorised dealers or via the second-hand market.

It can be easier to choose the boat than do the paperwork.

Mooring fees vary widely depending on location. Popular Mediterranean ports such as Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, and Marbella can cost €10,000-€20,000 annually, while Atlantic harbours in Galicia or southern Andalucia are often more affordable, ranging from €3,000-€8,000.

Legal requirements differ for residents and foreigners. British citizens living in Spain post-Brexit must obtain a TIE, while EU nationals and non-resident Brits require a NIE. Taxes include 21 per cent VAT on new boats, transfer taxes of 4-8 per cent for second-hand vessels, and matriculation tax for leisure boats over eight metres. Some buyers register their boats

under foreign flags, such as Poland, to reduce costs, though compliance with EU regulations remains necessary.

Registration is handled by Capitanía Marítima, and changing a boat’s name involves a small administrative fee. Operating a yacht requires a Patrón licence, PNB for smaller boats, PER for mid-sized, and higher or professional licences for larger or commercial vessels.

Second-hand buyers should bring a marine mechanic and inspect sails, rigging, engines, and systems, while a test sail ensures performance. Insurance, maintenance, winter storage, and port fees are ongoing costs, with insurers often requiring photographic proof of maintenance.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers

Costa del Sol

More retired than hired

MALAGA Province faces a growing youth unemployment crisis, with young people under 30 struggling to find work while an ageing workforce retires faster than new hires enter. The Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) reports Malaga’s overall unemployment rate dropped to 12.76 per cent in Q4 2024, with 108,700 unemployed, down 33,900 from 2023. Youth unemployment (ages 18-24) remains high, estimated at 20-25 per cent.

A Fundación Adecco study highlights a demographic crisis: over the next decade, Malaga expects 175,600 retirements but only 60,226 new workers, a ratio of 2.9 retirements per hire.

Andalucia faces a starker gap, with 854,300 retirements against predicted 290,957 new hires. This imbalance threatens Malaga’s tourism-driven economy, reliant on a steady workforce.

Andalucia’s youth unemployment remains high at 37 per cent, worsened by seasonal tourism and temporary contracts, fostering job insecurity.

Axarquia

From ideas to business

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA is once again betting big on talent.

The coastal town has just opened applications for the 11th edition of its Coworking EOI programme. It is a free acceleration space for entrepreneurs, freelancers and anyone ready to turn an idea into a good business.

Running from October 2025 to March 2026, the programme combines 60 hours of face-to-face training with 40 hours of individual mentoring. That means tailored guidance, expert advice and a strong support network. Perfect for those with a project in mind, but also for professionals looking to level up their model.

Since launch, the coworking initiative has already helped kick off 168 projects, backed by municipal investment that will reach €342,000 by the end of the 12th edition. The ideas are various, from tech startups to creative studios.

And here’s the best part, participation is 100 per cent free.

Costa Blanca North

Benidorm Pride

BENIDORM is counting down to the 15th anniversary of Benidorm Pride, one of the city’s most established annual events, which this year is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors - the majority being LGTBIQ+ tourists from Spain and abroad.

The celebration will run from September 1 to September 7, with a programme that brings together music, themed parties and cultural activities.

Santos Torres, organiser of the Pride, told Euro Weekly News that he is grateful for “the support and the great synergy” and explained that the motto chosen for this year is “More pride than ever!” He added: “This year there will be more parties and more leisure activities, alongside a strong cultural agenda to ensure Pride keeps its spirit of awareness and visibility.”

Torres also stressed that “Benidorm has consolidated a full LGTBIQ+ calendar throughout the year,” starting with the Benidorm Fest and Euroclub and finishing with the Pride.

Costa Blanca South Viral sunbed wars

A BRITISH tourist’s lighthearted video of the so-called ‘sunbed wars’ at a hotel in Torrevieja has become an internet sensation, garnering over 22,000 likes and 1.4 million views on TikTok.

Filmed at Hotel Playas de Torrevieja, the video shows guests racing into the pool area as soon as the gates open, towels in hand, determined to claim a lounge chair for themselves. As the video plays, the creator of the video narrates via text in the style of a wildlife documentary. He describes the tourists’ actions by making comments such as, ‘The males wait patiently… watching… ready to strike’, and ‘One female breaks from the pack… she closes in on her unsuspecting prey… the sunbed never stood a chance’.

The video, uploaded by user @ianforan_, went viral on TikTok within days, drawing both laughter and criticism. Many viewers said the clip reminded them of their own holiday experiences, while others struggled to understand the mentality of the guests.

Almeria Vineyard victory

IT’S officially wine season in Almeria, and the region is gearing up for a delicious harvest. For decades, Almeria has been famed for its fine wines and bountiful vineyards. Wine experts have noted that this year’s harvest looks particularly promising, as the grapes already picked look to be of excellent quality. This is mainly due to the healthy bouts of rain Almeria received in March of this year, strengthening the grapevines.

The heatwaves, though stifling in smaller Almeria towns (as locals can attest), didn’t much affect vineyards due to their high altitude. Moreover, though there was hail, it caused negligible damage to the vineyards, and other vine killers such as mildew were also sparse this year.

In Almeria, wineries work with a wide variety of grapes, which leads to high-quality varieties of wine. Their vineyards, some over 70 years old, consistently yield wines with greater aromatic concentration and excellent structure, praised by wine lovers all across Spain.

Costa Calida Raining money

TWO residents of Torre Pacheco faced an unusual sight recently: an ATM in the town centre was suddenly spitting out banknotes onto the street. Instead of picking up the money, they did the sensible thing and called the police.

Local officers arrived quickly and collected all the cash, which totalled €2,000 in €10, €20, and €50 bills. Thanks to the quick action of the residents, not a single euro went missing.

It was later confirmed that the money belonged to a local person who had made a deposit at the machine earlier that morning. The bank and police praised the citizens for their honesty and quick thinking, noting how rare it is to see people act responsibly in such situations. The incident left neighbours talking about what they would do if they stumbled upon money falling from an ATM.

Thanks to the vigilance of a few residents and the swift response from the police, €2,000 found its way safely back to its rightful owner.

The cat said “come and play”

IF you love pets, you’ll love house and pet-sitting

At HouseSitMatch we love pets, in fact we love pets and their owners and the people who help us as sitters. In fact, we’re always looking for new members and one of the main common features is that we all love pets, whether we own them or care for them, or want to own them or want to care for them. Pets are it!

Pet-sitting like a friend

Our philosophy at HouseSit Match is petsit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wide network of checked sitters. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening. And the sitters pet-sit for free.

The pet-sitters come for free!

If you’re planning a trip in 2025 or 2026 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than

later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised now. All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed.

Join our pet and house-sitting network! Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register on HouseSitMatch. com

2. Choose a choice account (£129 per year) to ensure you have help online.

3. Create a profile with photos. How does it work?

We can help you find suitable sitters, or a suitable house-sit to visit somewhere new.

You get ID checked for safety and then build your profile as a sitter, and a house-sit advert as an owner. House-sitters apply through the published advert, homeowners choose the sitters they want to interview.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent

Pure joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog. Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!

Lisa Stimpson, pet-sitter from the UK

How do you join? Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting benefits both parties, free house and pet-sitting, in exchange sitters get free accommodation!

Lamia Walker - Founder, HouseSitMatch.com - Mobile +44 (0)7772 142742

Zoomie zone

Treading love

SOFT paws pressing rhythmically against your lap or a blanket is a familiar and endearing sight for many cat owners.

This behaviour, known as kneading, often comes with a gentle purr and a look of complete relaxation. Cats use their front paws in an alternating motion, much like a baker working dough, which is where the term comes from. Kneading begins in kittenhood, when nursing kittens press their mother’s belly to encourage milk flow.

Many cats carry this ins-

TIP

tinct into adulthood, using it as a way to show comfort, contentment and affection. Some may also knead to mark territory, as scent glands in their paws leave a subtle signature.

For cats, kneading is pleasurable and soothing. The motion, combined with the release of scent and the warmth of a familiar surface, often helps them relax and feel secure.

If your cat kneads you, take it as a sign of trust and happiness - it is their way of saying they feel completely at home with you.

Home is a cosy, safe place

SUDDEN bursts of energy can turn your peaceful pet into a blur of paws and excitement. Known fondly as the zoomies, these wild sprints often take cats and dogs racing around the house, leaping off furniture or darting across the garden. Watching them in full flight can be both entertaining and slightly baffling, but this behaviour is completely normal.

Zoomies, or Frenetic Random Activity Periods, are a natural way for animals to release pent-up energy. For dogs, they might strike after a bath, during playtime or in the evening after a long nap. Cats are just as likely to dash about after using the litter tray or during their twilight hunting hours. In most cases, there is no need to intervene. Zoomies are harmless and help pets burn off excess energy. Just make sure the space is safe and free of obstacles they could hurt themselves on. Regular walks, play

IF you allow your dog off the leash in the garden, make sure he has a microchipped tag and that it is registered with accurate contact details. Always provide clean water, as well as protection and shelter. Dogs love having their own dog bed indoors as well. Pets require coverage from extreme heat and cold and should not remain entirely outdoors.

Letting your pet enjoy their joyful dash is usually the best approach - it is their way of shaking off stress and embracing the mo-

way of shaking off

CLASSIFIEDS

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BYD reveals pricing for its all-new Atto 2

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

FOUNDED in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker Chinese car maker BYD has been an increasingly dominant presence with its model line-up gaining praise for the build quality and, in EV terms, affordable pricing. The company has announced prices for its lead-in, and what it says is its most accessible, SUV: the ATTO 2. The all-new ATTO 2 is available in two trim levels - Boost and Comfort - with prices starting from €35,618/£30,850 on-the-road for the Boost version, while the Comfort trim level starts at €40,355/£34,950 on-the-road.

Although more than happy on longer journeys the ATTO 2 is aimed at being more of an urban electric car, with no features normally the preserve of larger models. Standard equipment on the ATTO 2 includes such items as a 32.5cm/12.8inch central touchscreen that can be rotated between portrait and landscape positions at the touch of a button. Wireless smartphone

with an 82kW DC on-board charger which means it can charge from 30 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes if you locate one of the fast chargers that seem to be appearing more frequently.

control and vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, which enables owners to power external devices such as a coffee machine or lawnmower. Personally, I’m not quite sure I’d use the feature but perhaps out at

Towbar fines in Spain

DRIVERS in Spain are learning that even a small car part can bring big trouble. The Guardia Civil has stepped up checks on towbars under Spain’s anti-tuning rules, and fines of €200 to €400 are hitting motorists who ignore the strict installation and documentation rules. Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, still allows towbars for towing or carrying bike racks, but they are now classed as a ‘major modification’. That means two things: the hitch must be type-approved and installed by an authorised workshop, and it must be recorded on the vehicle’s ficha técnica after passing the ITV.

compliant

Miss either step and a roadside check could leave you with a hefty fine and an order to regularise your car before driving again.

Even a properly approved towbar can still cost you €200 if it blocks your number plate. The law is clear: the registration must be fully visible at all times. A fixed ball that hi-

cessory like a bike rack without a repeat plate, counts as an ‘obstacle to plate visibility’ and will trigger penalties. In the worst case, an undeclared towbar that also hides the plate could rack up €600 in fines. Whether fixed or detachable, the key is paperwork.

If it appears on your ficha técnica, you can legally drive with the ball fitted, trailer or not, as long as the plate is visible. If not, you risk fines and ITV failure.

Meanwhile, higher trim Comfort models benefit from a larger 64.8kWh battery which offers up to 420km/261 miles of range. A 155kW on-board DC charger is fitted as standard, allowing the ATTO 2 to charge in as little as 21 minutes from 30 to 80 per cent. Again, suitable chargers being available.

The lead-in trim Boost models feature a 51.1kWh battery which offers a potential range of up to 344km/214 miles in mixed driving and a potential range of 486km/302 miles for city driving. It is fitted

The Blade Battery that powers BYD models is designed to deliver durability and performance. and, for the first time on a compact BYD, uses what is known as cellto-body (CTB) technology. CTB integrates the battery completely into the vehicle chassis, with the top cover of the pack acting as the floor for the passenger compartment. The layout, which is unique to BYD and a first in the compact SUV segment, delivers improved packaging and exceptional levels of body rigidity.

Ronaldo’s new world record

CRISTIANO RONALDO, 40, has become the first footballer in history to score 100 goals for four different clubs on Saturday, August 24, when, however, he lost his third straight league final as Al Nassr lost to Al Ahli in a penalty shootout after the Saudi Super Cup final ended 2-2.

The Portuguese striker achieved the world record at Hong Kong Stadium, where he scored his 100th goal for the Saudi Arabian club, which he joined at the end of 2022.

Ronaldo also scored 450 goals for Real Madrid, 145 for Manchester United and 101 for Juventus. With this milestone, the footballer surpassed three players who had scored 100 goals for three clubs. Isidro Langar, who played in Spain from 1930 to 1948, and Brazilian forwards Romario and Neymar.

The striker, considered one of the best in the world and in history along with Lionel Messi, also holds the world record for most goals with a national team. He has scored 138 with Portugal.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored twice in the game against Al Ahli, once after 41

minutes and a second time from the penalty spot.

His three consecutive league final losses has put him ahead of Messi, who has never lost any club finals in a row. However, the Argentine player lost two backto-back losses in finals with his country’s national team.

Hungarian MotoGP win

AFTER 33 years of absence, the Hungarian MotoGP was back and in an extremely dramatic way. The 2025 event at the Balaton Park Circuit, a new track, is the first time since 1992 that Hungary has hosted a Moto Grand Prix race.

Ducati driver from Spain, Marc Márquez delivered a masterclass at the Hungarian Circuit on Sunday, August 24 to win the GP, securing his seventh straight sprint-race double and stretching his world championship lead to 175 points.

brother, Álex Márquez (Gresini Racing), second in the overall standings behind his older brother, finished 14th after an early fall.

KTM’s Pedro Acosta, also a Spaniard, and Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi joined Márquez on the podium as the defending world champion, Jorge Martín, came fourth, his best finish on the Aprilia since his return from injury, the Guardian reported.

Pole-sitter Marquez lost his lead on lap one to drop out of the podium positions, but his tyre strategy proved decisive. His younger

After clinching his 13th sprint victory of the season, Marc found another good launch in the main race to lead into turn one. Bezzecchi took the lead on the next turn, though, as Márquez made contact with the Aprilia and lost speed to drop to fourth.

“Luckily, for both of us, I was able to save the crash, and he just continued his way. But from that point, the race changed a bit,” Márquez said after the race.

NBA $12.9m card sale

A BASKETBALL card featuring Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant sold for $12.932 million on Saturday, August 23, making it the most expensive sports card ever, according to the auction house which handled its sale. Both NBA all-time superstars signed the collectable.

“New record. The only copy that will ever exist of an extraordinary card featuring images, NBA uniform logos, and signatures from two of the greatest players of all time broke the records for the highest price ever paid for a card Saturday,” said Heritage Auctions on X.

“Bids for the 2007-08 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autographs Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant signed card soared like the players it depicts until it reached $12,932,000 (approximately €11 mi-

llion),” the auction house added.

The Jordan/Bryant card is the second-most expensive sports collectable of all time, behind Babe Ruth’s 1932 World Series ‘called shot’ jersey, which sold for $24.12 million almost a year ago to the day, according to ESPN.

A $5.2 million LeBron James rookie card previously held the record for the most expensivebasketball card until Sa-

greatest player in history.

is also legendary.

turday.

Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, winning six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls between 1991 and 1998. Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020, is also considered an NBA legend with five Lakers championships.