Live News From Spain As It Happens

The Ultimate Renovation Project? Man Buys Entire Spanish Village for the Price of an Apartment

2026-02-20T21:47:12

If you’ve been browsing the Spanish property portals lately, you’ll know that €310,000 doesn’t always go a long way. In Marbella or Madrid, it might net you a stylish one-bedroom apartment. In Barcelona, perhaps a well-located studio. But for American entrepreneur Jason Lee Beckwith, that same amount just bought him an entire village.

The news has sent ripples through the expat community and real estate circles alike. Beckwith, a musician and hotelier from California, has officially become the owner of Salto de Castro, an abandoned hamlet in the province of Zamora, nestled right on the border with Portugal.

From Hydroelectric Hub to Ghost Town

Salto de Castro isn't your typical medieval "pueblo." It was purpose-built in the 1940s and 50s by the electricity company Iberduero (now Iberdrola) to house the families of workers constructing the nearby dam. At its peak, it was a self-sufficient community featuring 44 homes, a church, a school, a bar, a guesthouse, and even Guardia Civil barracks.

However, once the dam was completed and the industry moved on, the residents followed. By 1989, the last doors were locked, and Salto de Castro was left to the elements. For decades, it sat as a hauntingly beautiful "ghost village," eventually landing on heritage watchlists for at-risk monuments.

A €310,000 Vision

While many see ruins, Beckwith saw a "life-changing switch flip in his head." After selling his guesthouse in California to fund the venture, he plans to relocate to the Zamora region with his wife to personally oversee the transformation.

His vision is ambitious. Rather than a private estate, he intends to revive the village as a sustainable holiday resort. The plans include:

The "Farm to Table" Experience: Utilizing the fertile Aliste region to highlight local beef, honey, chestnuts, and wild mushrooms.
Wine Tourism: Developing a vineyard and winery over the next decade.
A Multicultural Hub: Repurposing the village church into a multi-use event space.
Local Impact: Beckwith estimates the project will create roughly 35 jobs for local residents, a vital boost for an area struggling with rural depopulation.

If all goes to plan, the first phase—including the hotel, hostel, café, and pools—could open as early as late 2026.

Is "España Vaciada" the New Frontier for Expats?

This sale highlights a growing trend in the so-called España Vaciada (Empty Spain). As coastal prices continue to climb and the "digital nomad" lifestyle makes remote living more feasible, abandoned hamlets are becoming attractive to investors with deep pockets and big imaginations.

Salto de Castro isn't the only one. Other deserted villages, such as Candelago in Galicia (€150,000) and Matandrino in Segovia (€180,000), have also appeared on sites like Idealista, catching the eye of international buyers looking for something more substantial than a villa with a sea view.

The Reality Check

Of course, buying a village for the price of an apartment is just the beginning. The "rack and ruin" state of many of these properties means renovation costs will likely run into the millions. There are also environmental hurdles; Salto de Castro sits within the protected Arribes del Duero Natural Park, meaning every brick laid will be under the watchful eye of local authorities.

For Jason Beckwith, however, the reward isn't just financial. It’s about breathing life back into a corner of Spain that the world had forgotten.

What do you think? Would you trade your coastal apartment for a set of keys to your own village, or is the "Empty Spain" dream a renovation nightmare waiting to happen? Let us know in the comments below!

Spain to Ban Social Media for Under-16s: A Move to Tame the "Digital Wild West"

2026-02-06T23:08:24

Spain is set to become one of the first European nations to implement a strict ban on social media for children under the age of 16, as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ramps up the government’s efforts to protect minors from the darker corners of the internet.

Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai this week, Sánchez used strong language to describe the current state of the internet, referring to it as a "digital Wild West."

"Today, our children are exposed to a space they were never meant to navigate alone," Sánchez told the summit. He highlighted a list of concerns, including addiction, online abuse, pornography, and violence, stating flatly: "We will no longer accept that. We will protect them."

More Than Just a "Check Box"

The proposed legislation, which Sánchez hopes to see passed as early as next week, aims to move beyond simple age-verification "check boxes" that are easily bypassed. The Prime Minister called for "real barriers that work," acknowledging the flaws seen in other regions—such as Australia—where children have circumvented restrictions using simple workarounds like using photos of adults.

Key measures of the proposed plan include:

Mandatory Age Verification: Platforms must implement robust systems to ensure users are 16 or older.

Executive Accountability: Tech company executives could be held personally responsible for illegal or harmful content hosted on their platforms.

Algorithm Regulation: The laws would criminalise the manipulation of algorithms that amplify illegal content or disinformation for profit.

Anti-Hate Tracking: A new system will be developed to track how digital platforms fuel social division and amplify hate speech.

Targeting Tech Giants

The announcement comes at a time of increasing tension between European governments and major tech platforms. Sánchez specifically mentioned investigations into Grok (X’s AI tool), TikTok, and Instagram.

This move aligns with broader European actions; the European Commission and the UK have already launched investigations into Grok over concerns regarding the creation of sexualized images. Furthermore, the offices of X (formerly Twitter) in France were recently raided as part of a cybercrime investigation.

The reaction from tech leaders has been swift and sharp. Elon Musk, owner of X, reacted to the news by labelling Sánchez a "tyrant and traitor." Meanwhile, social media companies have argued that such bans are difficult to enforce and risk isolating vulnerable teenagers who rely on digital communities for support.

Will the Law Pass?

While Sánchez is pushing for a quick resolution, the path to implementation may be tricky. His left-wing coalition government does not hold a parliamentary majority.

However, there appears to be some cross-party consensus. The conservative People’s Party (PP) has indicated support for the spirit of the ban, noting they have proposed similar restrictions in the past. On the other hand, the far-right Vox party has already voiced its opposition.

A Growing Global Trend
Spain is not alone in its crusade. Australia made history last year by becoming the first country to implement a national social media ban for minors. In Europe, France is leading a similar charge, with President Emmanuel Macron aiming for an under-15 ban to be in place by September. Denmark, Austria, and the UK are also currently consulting on similar age-limit restrictions.

As Spain moves toward a vote, the eyes of the world—and the tech industry—will be on Madrid to see if the government can successfully tame the "Wild West" or if the digital barriers will prove too difficult to build.

What do you think? Is 16 the right age for social media, or is this an overreach of government power? Let us know in the comments below.

Elon Musk Envisions "Empty Spain" as Europe's Solar Powerhouse

2026-01-30T10:31:11

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND — Elon Musk has ignited a fresh debate over Europe’s renewable energy future by proposing that the sparsely populated regions of rural Spain could serve as a massive solar generator for the entire continent.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO suggested that "España vaciada" (Empty Spain)—areas known for their low population density and abundant sunshine—is ideally situated to host the scale of solar infrastructure needed to power Europe.

The Proposal

During a wide-ranging discussion on energy and technology with BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, Musk argued that the physical land and solar resources are already available. He specifically highlighted rural Spain, along with parts of Sicily, as prime candidates for utility-scale solar farms.

"Relatively sparsely populated areas... could generate all the electricity Europe needs," Musk stated. He emphasized that the barrier to this vision is not technological but rather a matter of investment and political will. To bolster his argument, he pointed to China, which is already operating solar farms capable of producing hundreds of gigawatts annually, proving that infrastructure of this magnitude is feasible.

Beyond Energy: Robots and AI

Musk’s appearance at Davos was not limited to energy policy. He used the platform to make bold predictions about the near future of technology:

Robotics: He predicted that robots would eventually outnumber humans, with Tesla’s own humanoid robot, "Optimus," potentially ready for consumers by 2027.
Artificial Intelligence: Musk forecasted that AI could reach human-level intelligence as early as late 2026 or 2027, with "super-intelligent" AI surpassing collective human reasoning by the early 2030s.

Challenges and Reactions

While Musk’s comments highlight the strategic advantage of Southern Europe's geography, the concept faces significant practical hurdles. Transforming vast tracts of rural land into a continental power hub would require:

Massive upgrades to the European electrical grid to transport power north.
Complex international regulatory agreements.
Strict environmental impact assessments to protect local biodiversity.

As of now, neither the Spanish government nor European Union institutions have adopted this specific vision as official policy. Experts acknowledge that while Spain is rapidly expanding its renewable capacity, dedicating its rural interior to powering the rest of Europe remains a hypothetical scenario rather than a planned reality.

Nevertheless, Musk’s proposal has successfully thrust the potential of "Empty Spain" back into the spotlight, challenging European leaders to think bigger about how they utilize their geography in the transition away from fossil fuels.

ETIAS Delayed Again: No Travel Permits Required for Brits Until 2027

2026-01-16T21:51:57

For British expats, property owners, and regular visitors to Spain, the bureaucratic landscape of post-Brexit travel has been a source of constant "will-they-won't-they" tension. In a significant update for the 2026 travel season, it has been confirmed that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been delayed once again, with a new rollout target of 2027.

Here is what this latest reprieve means for the Eye on Spain community and your upcoming travel plans.

The ETIAS Delay: A Brief Sigh of Relief

The ETIAS system—often compared to the US ESTA—is designed to require non-EU citizens (including Britons) to apply for a €7 travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area. Originally slated for 2024, then 2025, and then 2026, the system has faced repeated technical hurdles.

The latest reports from Brussels indicate that the infrastructure is still not ready for a seamless launch. Consequently, British travellers can continue to visit Spain throughout 2026 without the need for this specific digital permit.

Why the Delay? The EES Connection

The primary reason for the ETIAS postponement is its dependency on the Entry/Exit System (EES).

The EES is the automated system that will replace manual passport stamping with biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial scans) at borders. EU officials have prioritized getting the EES hardware and software operational at major hubs—like Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, and Málaga airports—before layering the ETIAS permit system on top of it.

What Does This Mean for Your 2026 Travel?

No Extra Fees (For Now): You won’t need to pay the €7 fee or fill out the ETIAS application form for your summer 2026 holidays or visits to your Spanish home.
Passport Stamping Continues: Until the EES is fully active, the "old-fashioned" manual passport stamping will remain the norm. This means you must still be diligent about the 90/180-day rule.
90-Day Rule Still Applies: It is vital to remember that the delay of ETIAS does not change the residency or duration-of-stay rules. British visitors are still limited to 90 days in any 180-day period unless they hold a TIE (residency card) or a relevant visa.

Preparing for the Future

While the delay to 2027 offers a temporary reprieve, the digital border is still coming. Once ETIAS eventually launches:

Validity: The permit will be valid for three years (or until your passport expires).
Cost: It will be free for those under 18 or over 70, and €7 for everyone else.
Application: It will be a digital-only process, usually approved within minutes, though travelers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure.

The Bottom Line for Eye on Spain Readers

For those planning their 2026 trips to the Costas or the Islands, this news removes one layer of potential travel friction. You can book your flights and ferries with the confidence that, for another year at least, the only "paperwork" you'll need is your valid passport and, if applicable, your proof of Spanish residency.

The most beautiful Christmas markets in Spain to visit in 2025

2025-12-12T18:32:11

In December, Christmas begins to make itself felt in every corner. Streets sparkle with lights, the scent of traditional sweets fills the air, and artisan stalls take over squares and promenades across Spain. For anyone who enjoys the festive atmosphere, Christmas markets are simply unmissable.

In Spain, Christmas markets offer a perfect combination of tradition, culture and local life. From historic squares to illuminated promenades, each market reflects a different way of celebrating.

We have selected 10 of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Spain, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit, explore new cities or enjoy a festive experience.

Christmas markets offer a perfect blend of tradition, culture and local life. Photo: GettyImages

1. Plaza Mayor in Madrid - Madrid

The classic par excellence. With more than 100 stalls, the Christmas market in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor offers nativity scene figures, lights, decorations, toys, traditional sweets and all sorts of traditional products. Its historic setting alone is worth a visit. The market will be open from 27 November to 31 December 2025.

If you’re enjoying Christmas with your family in Madrid, another highly recommended option is the Torrejón de Ardoz Fairground, just half an hour from the city centre. This unique space offers shows, a nativity scene, a Ferris wheel, fireworks and a wide range of food and drink, ideal for enjoying with the family. This market is open until 6 January 2026.

2. Fira de Santa Llúcia - Barcelona

Next to the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, this Christmas fair, held since 1786, is one of the oldest in Spain. It has more than 200 stalls dedicated to nativity scenes, fir trees, crafts and the typical Catalan ‘caganers’. With a cosy, family atmosphere, it’s an excellent opportunity to discover Catalan Christmas culture in a monumental setting. It will be open from 28 November to 26 December.

3. Plaza del Pilar - Zaragoza

A giant nativity scene, an ice rink and more than 40 stalls make up the Zaragoza Christmas market, held in one of the country’s most iconic squares. From 29 November to 6 January, Plaza del Pilar is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, with a nativity scene featuring more than 50 figures. With a wide range of handmade products, decorations, and regional food, it offers a wonderful blend of festive atmosphere and cultural setting.

4. City of Arts and Sciences - Valencia

From 12 December to 6 January, this Christmas market is set up next to the Valencia Science Museum. Some 60 stalls occupy one of the city’s most iconic settings, with activities for the whole family. Children can deliver their letters to the Three Kings and Father Christmas, take part in workshops and enjoy Christmas shows. You’ll also find food trucks and typical products to savour Christmas in the mild Mediterranean climate.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Spain Cracks Down: British Tourists Face Stricter Entry Rules, Higher Taxes, and Fines Up to £2,517

2025-10-24T19:41:45

Spain, a consistently popular destination for British holidaymakers, is implementing a comprehensive series of new rules and regulations designed to curb overtourism and anti-social behaviour. Visitors are now advised to familiarise themselves with changes ranging from stricter border controls to new local restrictions and hefty fines, with some violations on beaches carrying a penalty of up to £2,517.

Stricter Entry and Exit System (EES)

The European Union has begun rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) in phases, which will change the border experience for non-EU visitors, including those from the UK.

Under the new system, which began implementation in October 2025 at border crossings:

Biometric Data: Tourists will be required to provide fingerprints and photographs upon arrival and departure.
Schengen Code Questions: Border officials will ask visitors a standard set of questions, including the purpose of travel, proof of sufficient funds for the stay, and details of accommodation.

Higher Tourist Taxes

Several popular Spanish destinations are raising their local tourist taxes to manage the cost of increased visitor numbers.

Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, Formentera): Overnight charges are set to rise, with guests in four and five-star hotels during peak summer months potentially paying significantly more per person per night. Cruise passengers will also see a sharp fee increase, with some charges going up by 200%.
Barcelona: The city's tourist tax is scheduled to double by the end of 2025, reaching a higher charge per person per night for those staying in top-tier hotels.

New Local Restrictions on Accommodation and Activities

In a direct response to local anti-tourism protests, several Spanish communities are introducing measures to protect local life and housing markets.

Holiday Rental Crackdowns:
- In Málaga, a new three-year law starting January 14, 2025, will prohibit the registration of any new holiday rentals across 43 districts.
- Palma, Mallorca, has banned new tourist rentals and new youth hostels, with existing hostels encouraged to convert to residential housing or hotels.
Crowd Management:
- Palma has capped the size of walking tours to a maximum of 20 people per group.
- The Majorcan town of Sóller has implemented a 'residents-only' driving zone, banning hire cars and non-locally registered vehicles from the town centre.
Party Activities: Palma has announced a ban on party boats operating near certain coastal areas.

Strict Behavioural Rules and High Fines

Holidaymakers are warned that certain behaviours and items are now strictly prohibited in certain zones, resulting in steep financial penalties.

Alcohol Bans and Limits

Late-Night Ban: In areas of Majorca and Ibiza—including Llucmajor, Palma, Calvià (Magaluf), and Sant Antoni—a late-night alcohol ban prohibits the sale of drinks between 9:30 pm and 8 am. Drinking on public roads during these hours is also prohibited.
Six-Drink Cap: All-inclusive resorts in specific areas like Magaluf are enforcing a six-drink limit on alcoholic beverages as part of the package, generally restricting guests to three drinks at lunch and three at dinner.

Beach Prohibitions and Fines

Authorities in places like Gran Canaria have issued a comprehensive list of banned activities on beaches, promenades, and coastal zones. Fines for breaking these rules are categorised as:

Infraction Severity	Fine Range
Minor	£25 to £629
Serious	£630 to £1,258
Very Serious	Up to £2,517

Prohibited Beach Acts Include:

Smoking and Vaping.
Playing music in sunbathing areas.
Cooking on the beach.
Using large umbrellas, tents, or shelters.
Reserving spaces on sun decks or bathing platforms.
Collecting shells or rocks.
Fishing with a rod within 150 meters of bathing areas.
Public sexual activity.
Wasting water or washing with soap at public showers and foot-washing stations.

2025 Summer Tourism Records Shattered Despite Overtourism Clampdowns

2025-10-17T19:57:40

The summer of 2025 will be etched into Spain’s history not only as a season of sun-drenched beaches and cultural vibrancy but as the year the nation’s tourism sector delivered a monumental statistical paradox. Despite a concerted national effort to introduce "overtourism measures" aimed at managing visitor numbers and mitigating local discontent, Spain smashed all previous visitor records. The sheer volume of international arrivals has thrown the government's balanced approach into question, sparking a renewed debate over whether current policies are merely token gestures against an unstoppable wave of global demand.

The Statistical Surge: A Tsunami of Tourists
Preliminary figures for the peak summer months (June through September) indicate that Spain welcomed an unprecedented number of foreign visitors, far surpassing the previous record set in 2023. Reports suggest an increase of approximately 12-15% in arrivals compared to the year before, with spending per tourist also seeing a healthy rise. Coastal hubs like the Balearic Islands and the popular cities of Barcelona and Madrid felt the brunt of the surge, with hotels running at near-100% occupancy and key attractions registering record daily foot traffic.
This boom is a testament to Spain's enduring global appeal, fueled by robust post-pandemic travel sentiment, favourable exchange rates, and effective international marketing. Yet, it simultaneously highlights the ineffectiveness of the recently implemented measures designed specifically to dial back the volume.

The Policy Response: A Whisper Against a Roar
In late 2024 and early 2025, Spanish regional governments—under pressure from mounting resident protests over housing shortages and environmental stress—rolled out several high-profile anti-overtourism policies. These measures were intended to shift the focus from volume to value and improve the quality of life for permanent residents.

The key measures introduced included:

Tourist Tax Hikes: In regions like Catalonia and the Balearics, the sustainable tourism tax was significantly increased, particularly for short stays and cruise passengers.

Short-Term Rental Restrictions: Major cities enforced stricter licensing rules, creating "red zones" where new tourist apartments were banned, or imposing a minimum stay duration to discourage transient visitors.

Cruise Ship Limitations: Ports in Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona established stricter daily limits on the number of cruise ships allowed to dock, aiming to reduce the short, intensive bursts of tourist activity that overwhelm local infrastructure.

Access Fees: Pilot programs were introduced for popular natural sites and remote island beaches, requiring pre-booking and a nominal fee to cap daily attendance.

The intended effect of these policies was clear: to introduce friction, raise the cost of visiting, and favour tourists who stay longer and spend more locally. The actual result, however, suggests the market simply absorbed the new costs without a noticeable reduction in demand.

The Expansion: Why the Floodgates Stayed Open

The failure of the 2025 measures to deter visitors is rooted in several powerful economic and psychological factors that government policies failed to account for:

1. The Revenge Travel Phenomenon Persists
Despite being years removed from the initial wave of post-lockdown travel, the global appetite for experiences—often referred to as "revenge travel"—continues to drive tourism. Spain, perceived as a relatively safe, accessible, and high-value European destination, remains the primary choice for millions prioritising a major international trip. A small increase in tourist tax or a slightly higher hotel price is viewed as an insignificant barrier compared to the desire to travel.

2. Global Economic Resilience
Targeted policy measures are only truly effective when the economy is soft. With relatively strong consumer spending in key source markets (UK, Germany, France, and the US), tourists can easily afford the marginal price increases. The cost of an entire holiday in Spain remains highly competitive compared to alternatives like Italy or the South of France.

3. Destination Diversification and Appeal
While the core measures focused on urban hubs and major islands, Spain's tourism appeal is vast. The surge was not just concentrated in Madrid and the Costa del Sol; increasingly, regions like Galicia, Asturias, and Castilla-La Mancha saw significant growth. This widespread popularity means that local measures in traditional hotspots can be easily bypassed by tourists seeking new, equally appealing Spanish destinations.

4. Policies Aimed at Management, Not Reduction
A critical analysis suggests that the implemented measures were too gentle. They were designed to manage the impact of tourism (by using the tax revenue for better services) rather than fundamentally reduce the number of visitors. To truly curb a 15% year-on-year rise, structural limits—such as strict, enforceable caps on new hotel licenses or a complete cessation of certain short-term rental categories—would be required.

A Policy Reckoning: The Future of Spanish Tourism

The record-breaking summer of 2025 serves as a clear warning to Spanish policymakers: the current suite of overtourism measures is insufficient to manage the current level of global demand.
As resident frustration continues to mount, particularly in areas where locals are being priced out of housing, the government faces an inevitable reckoning. Future debates will likely move away from incremental taxes and toward more radical, structural solutions. Potential future actions could include:

Moratoriums on Development: Total, multi-year freezes on new tourist accommodation construction in high-density areas.
Zoning Overhauls: Redefining residential zones to explicitly exclude short-term rental activity across entire municipalities.
Environmental Levies: Introducing significant fees on high-impact activities, such as high-emission air and sea travel, to fund crucial environmental infrastructure upgrades.

Spain’s dilemma is clear: how to reconcile the massive economic benefit of tourism—which accounts for over 12% of its GDP—with the social and environmental sustainability of its most beautiful destinations. The shattered records of 2025 confirm that achieving that balance will require aggressive policies in the years to come.

Record number of Americans move to Spain

2025-09-26T19:35:36

Driven by a search for a better quality of life and new visa opportunities, a record number of Americans are choosing Spain as their new home. New Eurostat data shows Spain issued the most first-time residency permits to U.S. citizens in the EU in 2024, an unprecedented number that more than doubles the figure from 2015. For many, the decision is fueled by a desire to escape political fatigue and the high cost of living in the U.S.

According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), the number of U.S. citizens living in Spain reached 50,623 as of January 1, 2024—a 26% increase in just two years. Data shows the surge is not primarily driven by retirees but by a younger demographic, with a significant number in the 20 to 39 age bracket, many of whom are utilising the country's Digital Nomad Visa.

The lure of lifestyle and affordability

For many Americans, Spain offers a compelling antidote to the pressures of modern life in the United States. Expats report a more relaxed pace, a welcoming Mediterranean climate, and a significantly lower cost of living. A strong U.S. dollar against the euro has increased purchasing power, making real estate more accessible to American buyers.

Real Estate Boom: U.S. property purchases in Spain increased by 57% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025, with Americans becoming the fastest-growing foreign buyer group.

Cost of Living: Many expats find that daily expenses in Spain are approximately 30% lower than in the U.S., including more affordable housing and fresher, less expensive food.

Political Fatigue: For some, the decision is a direct response to political polarisation in the United States, which gained momentum following the 2024 presidential election.

Digital Nomads and new residency pathways
The recent surge was significantly influenced by Spain's introduction of a Digital Nomad Visa, which streamlines the residency process for remote workers. While Spain officially ended its Golden Visa program for property investors in April 2025, other pathways, including the non-lucrative visa for those with passive income, have continued to attract long-term residents.

This new wave of expats is also spreading out geographically, settling beyond traditional hubs. While Madrid and Barcelona remain popular, other cities like Valencia and Málaga have become major draws for remote workers and those seeking a more authentic Spanish experience.

The economic and social impact
The influx of high-earning Americans, especially remote workers and investors, brings new purchasing power to the Spanish economy. However, this trend also fuels concerns about the potential for rising real estate prices and inflationary pressures in popular areas, a concern voiced by some Spanish citizens. Despite this, the economic injection and cultural exchange are widely seen as a boon for the country.

Looking ahead
The data indicate that this trend is likely to continue. With a strong U.S. dollar, supportive visa policies, and a culture that appeals to those seeking a better work-life balance, Spain remains a top destination. As more Americans discover the benefits of life on the Iberian Peninsula, the cultural and economic exchange between the two nations is set to grow even stronger.

Summer 2025 Ranks Among Spain’s Hottest Ever After Historic August Heatwave

2025-09-06T05:01:00

Spain’s summer of 2025 has cemented its place in the history books, ranking as one of the two hottest on record, nearly matching the historic summer of 2022. This extreme heat has been driven by extended periods of high temperatures, which have intensified wildfire risks and posed significant threats to public health across the country.

According to Spain's national meteorological agency, AEMET, the summer’s defining feature was a historic August heatwave that set a new record for intensity. With a temperature anomaly of 4.6°C, this event surpassed the previous record set in July 2022. The heatwave lasted 16 days, making the period from August 1st to 20th the warmest of its kind in Spain since at least 1961. The ten-day stretch from August 8th to 17th was the hottest ever recorded in the country.

The persistent heat has made 2025 the second-warmest year on record from January to August, trailing only 2024. This marks a concerning trend, as the last four years have all ranked among the hottest ever recorded, clearly surpassing previous historical benchmarks. While March was notably cold and May was near average, all other months of the year have been classified as warm, very warm, or extremely warm.

The Rising Threat of Climate Change

The trend of increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves is a direct consequence of climate change. AEMET data shows that the average temperature in Spain has risen by 1.69°C between 1961 and 2024. Scientific evidence confirms that heatwaves are becoming longer, more widespread, and more severe. While Spain has always experienced hot summers, recent years have seen an alarming increase in both daytime and nighttime temperatures.

The most intense heatwaves are becoming more frequent. The fact that five of the 20 warmest periods on record occurred during the recent August heatwave, and 15 have happened since 2022, underscores this trend. AEMET emphasised on social media that "The persistence of extreme heat intensifies its adversity," noting the severe impact on vulnerable populations and the escalating danger of wildfires.

A Glimpse into the Future

Climate projections suggest that by the middle of the 21st century, typical summers in the Mediterranean region could be approximately 2°C warmer than they were between 1981 and 2020. Alarmingly, the summers of 2022 and 2025 are already comparable to these mid-century conditions.

The data is undeniable: four of the five most intense heatwaves in Spain have occurred since 2019. This is not a coincidence but a clear indication of a long-term trend towards more extreme summers. While not every summer will be hotter than the last, the overall trajectory is clear and undeniable. This reality highlights the urgent need for both adaptation to and mitigation of climate change.

New Poll Reveals Majority in EU and UK Favour Rejoining, But with Incompatible Conditions

2025-08-01T18:54:28

A recent YouGov poll has shed light on public opinion regarding the UK potentially rejoining the European Union, revealing a complex picture of conditional support both in the UK and across the continent.

The poll, conducted in six Western European nations, found that a clear majority of people in the EU's four largest member states—Germany, Spain, France, and Italy—would welcome the UK back into the bloc. Support for a UK return was as follows:

Germany at 63%

Spain at 60%

France at 53%

Italy at 51%.

However, this support is not without conditions. When asked if the UK should be allowed to rejoin while keeping its previous opt-outs, such as remaining outside the euro and the Schengen passport-free zone, the numbers shifted dramatically. In the four largest EU countries, barely one-fifth of respondents (ranging from 19% in Italy and France to 22% in Germany) felt the UK should be allowed to return on those terms. A majority, between 58% and 62%, believe that the UK must participate in all of the EU's main policy areas.

The survey also highlighted a similar divide within the UK. While 54% of Britons now support rejoining the EU, this support is also conditional. The number drops to just 36% if rejoining means giving up the UK's previous opt-outs. This reveals a "public opinion impasse" where both sides want rejoining on their own terms, which are currently incompatible.

The results indicate a growing sentiment in favour of closer ties, but the details of what that would look like remain a significant hurdle. The poll also found that while a majority of Britons now see Brexit as a failure, there is still a divide on whether rejoining is the right priority for the government at this time.

Planning a Trip to Spain? Stay Informed with the Latest Rules and Regulations for 2025

2025-03-12T10:08:46

Spain, with its alluring climate, extensive coastline, and world-renowned cuisine, remains a magnet for travellers worldwide. In 2024 alone, this vibrant country welcomed an unprecedented 94 million visitors. However, with this surge, Spain faces the challenges of managing overcrowding and mitigating the impact on local life. To address these concerns, Spain has introduced a series of new regulations for 2025. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating these changes while ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know

The procedures for entering Spain vary based on your country of origin, travel duration, and the purpose of your visit.

For citizens from the European Union, European Economic Area, or Schengen Area, the process remains straightforward. A valid national ID card or passport suffices, with no restrictions on the length of stay unless you plan to remain for over 90 days. In such cases, you must register with local authorities.

Non-EU travellers will encounter stricter border controls in 2025. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your departure date. Additionally, you may need to show the following documents:

Proof of travel insurance
Return or onward travel ticket
Sufficient funds for your stay
Proof of accommodation or a 'carta de invitación' if residing with friends or family

Looking ahead, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be implemented in mid-2025. This system requires a €7 travel authorisation, valid for three years, which can be obtained online.

Changes in Accommodation Regulations

Starting January 2025, Spain has revamped its rules for short-term rentals. Property owners must now register in a national database and obtain a permit before listing properties on platforms like Airbnb. Moreover, they are required to gather sensitive information from guests, including bank details and personal identifiers. There’s also a proposed VAT increase on short-term rentals, aligning it with the 10% applied to hotels, potentially driving up accommodation costs.

While these rules primarily target new rentals, existing hotels and registered Airbnbs remain available. However, limited new rental properties might lead to inflated prices in the future as demand continues to grow.

Restrictions on Airbnb Rentals

Airbnb rentals aren’t banned nationwide but are restricted in specific areas. For instance, in Malaga, new rental apartments are prohibited in 43 neighbourhoods where rentals already exceed 8% of the housing stock. Barcelona, taking a more stringent approach, plans to shut down all 10,000 currently licensed short-term rental apartments by 2028, refusing license renewals and new applications.

Tourist Taxes: What You Should Expect

Since 2012, certain regions in Spain have imposed tourist taxes, and these have seen significant hikes for 2025. Barcelona, in particular, has doubled its tourist tax rates. Luxury hotel guests will now pay €7 per night, while those staying in four-star hotels will be charged €3.40. Cruise passengers, even those visiting for a day, will face a €6 fee – a significant increase from previous rates. Additionally, Barcelona may double its municipal surcharge, leading to a possible total of €15 per night, excluding VAT, for luxury hotels.

The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, have also raised their peak season tourist tax to €6 per night for the most luxurious stays. Similar measures are under consideration in the Canary Islands, with the town of Mogan already implementing a €0.15 per person daily charge.

Other cities like Santiago de Compostela and Toledo are introducing new tourist taxes ranging from €1 to €2.50 per night.

Addressing Unruly Behaviour with Fines

Spain has introduced various local regulations to curb tourist misbehaviour:

Alcohol Restrictions in Barcelona and the Balearics:

Barcelona has expanded its ban on pub crawls to include the Eixample district from June 2025, augmenting the restrictions already in place in the Ciutat Vella district. The Balearic Islands have imposed strict alcohol consumption limits in major resorts such as Llucmajor, Palma, Calvia (Magaluf), and San Antonio in Ibiza. Violations could result in fines from €750 to €3,000.

Driving Restrictions in Mallorca:

In efforts to preserve local communities, Soller on Mallorca has introduced a low emission zone encompassing 12 historic streets. Only vehicles registered to residents can access these areas. Tourists must park in designated zones on the outskirts.

Beach Rules in Torrox:

Torrox, located on the Costa del Sol, has banned beach tents, gazebos, and similar structures. This measure is aimed at improving safety and ensuring lifeguards and emergency services can operate without obstruction.

Smoking Bans:

Spain continues its stringent stance on smoking. Notable bans include smoking on Barcelona’s beaches and over 100 other beaches across the country. The Balearic Islands alone have introduced smoking restrictions on 28 beaches.

Preparing for a Successful Trip

Given these new rules and regulations, it is important to be well-prepared for your visit to Spain in 2025. Here are some tips and reminders to make your experience smooth and enjoyable:

Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary travel documents, including your passport, travel insurance, return tickets, and proof of accommodation.
Accommodation: Book early to secure registered hotels or Airbnbs. Be aware of potential price increases due to new regulations.
Budget: Factor in tourist taxes and possible fines for non-compliance with local rules.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest travel advisories and local regulations.

While the new rules might seem daunting, they are designed to balance the influx of tourists with the wellbeing of local communities. By staying informed and respecting these regulations, you can have a memorable and trouble-free holiday in Spain. Safe travels!

Spain's New 2025 Tax Agenda: Understanding the Implications

2025-01-18T07:21:24

As we step into 2025, Spain ushers in notable transformations within its tax landscape. These adjustments, spanning various sectors and affecting diverse demographic groups, stem from fiscal policies agreed upon during the recent sessions of the Congress of Deputies. With an overarching aim to bolster state revenues by approximately €4.5 billion annually, these changes illustrate the government's strategic move to ensure a robust economic framework. Amidst these changes, some tax relief measures, previously introduced to combat inflation, have now expired. As these developments take shape, a comprehensive understanding is essential for individuals and businesses alike.

Reverting to Standard Rates

A significant change that has captured public attention involves the reimplementation of standard tax rates on previously exempted goods. After many years of enjoying reduced VAT on basic necessities, Spaniards are now witnessing a return to the usual 4% VAT rate on essential food items, including the much-revered olive oil. Alongside this, the temporary reduction in electricity VAT has been rescinded, restoring the rate to its original 21%. These modifications, while boosting revenue, inevitably lead to a rise in household expenses for Spanish families.

These changes reflect a broader economic strategy designed to ensure a sustainable fiscal future as Spain gradually phases out measures implemented to cushion households from past inflationary pressures. Since 2020, public coffers have absorbed extensive cuts, amounting to €120 billion in tax breaks and subsidies. While their removal might indicate a controlled inflation environment, they simultaneously challenge lower-income families' financial stability.

Impact on the Corporate Sphere

Corporate entities, particularly large multinationals and banks, encounter significant revisions in their tax obligations. Marked by changes drafted to align with international benchmarks and outcomes agreed upon with Brussels, these reforms present a nuanced picture for businesses operating in Spain.

Corporate Tax Adjustments

For large businesses and multinationals with turnovers exceeding €750 million, 2025 heralds a minimum 15% corporate tax rate. This aligns with the global effort to ensure that large corporations contribute an equitable share, regardless of where they generate income. However, there is some respite for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); was responded to calls for economic support through a reduction in their Corporate Tax liabilities. For SMEs, a relief package encompassing a €700 million reduction epitomises an essential gesture towards supporting business growth within this critical sector.

The Financial Sector's New Reality

Banks in Spain face a transformative fiscal landscape in 2025. A freshly introduced tax on the financial sector targets interest margins and fees, announced with a progressive tax scale ranging from 1% to 7%. The government estimates that this measure will cumulatively generate €1.7 billion annually over the next three years. The revenue procured under this tax will be distributed among the autonomous communities, corresponding to their GDP—an approach aimed at fostering fair distribution.

Moreover, the tax reform package introduced further considerations. If acquisition operations like BBVA's takeover of Sabadell proceed, additional tax burdens may arise, amplifying the financial sector’s contribution to the economy and the national treasury.

Addressing Fiscal Fraud and Modifying Tax Policies

Among the new measures, the government has committed to tightening regulations to combat fiscal fraud, particularly within the hydrocarbons sector. A revised hydrocarbons VAT aims to prevent manipulation and ensure transparency in operations related to major oil companies. Simultaneously, the modifications within Corporation Tax strive to limit past deductions, bringing Spain's effective tax rate closer to its statutory requirements.

Effects on Personal Income

Throughout these fiscal revisions, certain personal income categories come under scrutiny. Specifically, individuals receiving capital incomes exceeding €300,000 will face an increment in their Personal Income Tax by an additional two percentage points, setting the rate at 30%. Despite these changes, many Spaniards still bear the financial burden resulting from non-indexed tax brackets, which do not reflect inflationary movements.

A report from the Bank of Spain flagged this issue, noting that the absence of indexation has enabled the Tax Agency to collect an additional €11 billion in recent years. As inflation continues to affect household budgets, calls for adjustments persist.

Tobacco, Diesel, and Energy: A Changing Landscape

The beginning of 2025 marks increased taxation on tobacco and introduces a new tax on electronic cigarettes, part of the government’s broader vision to curb smoking across all age groups, especially among youth. This policy extends beyond revenue generation, reflecting a public health focus as the prevalence of tobacco consumption rises.

For motorists, potential changes loom with regards to the hydrocarbon tax on diesel. While current discount measures are slated for removal, political dynamics have temporarily delayed these adjustments. The proposal faces opposition from Podemos, thereby temporarily blocking its legislative passage despite Spanish commitment to Brussels to implement this change as a condition for receiving European funds.

A Record Year with Regional Disparities

As Spain concluded 2024 with revenue close to €300 billion, disparities among the regions regarding local and state taxes remain evident. Regions like Catalonia, previously leading in local taxes with minimal tax breaks, continue to hold significant contrasts compared to Madrid, recognised for its reduced tax burden. These differences highlight the asynchronous fiscal experiences faced by citizens across the country.

Despite achieving record revenue, Spain’s average tax pressure remains below the EU average, reported at 37% of GDP according to Eurostat’s latest figures. This analysis, which considers income levels and contributions after deductions, situates Spain below neighbouring countries like Portugal, Germany, and Italy, with France leading at 45.6%.

Concluding Thoughts

As Spain navigates these new fiscal waters, the array of changes encompasses a vision aimed at stabilising the economy, achieving equitable taxation, and ensuring aligned growth. While these taxes undeniably tighten some financial strain on individuals and businesses, especially amidst global economic uncertainties, they represent decisive movements to achieve balanced public finances. Ultimately, understanding and navigating these transformative changes will be essential for all stakeholders involved as they contribute to shaping Spain’s economic narrative this year and beyond.

CSIC clears up most-common food myths

2024-11-23T12:24:56

SPAIN'S National Research Council (CSIC) has announced a new book series seeking to debunk widely-held myths through scientific answers – including whether bread really makes you put on weight.

Is the crumb or the crust of bread most fattening? The CSIC answers this and other food questions in its latest guide (photo: Pixnio)

The latest edition in the series ¿Qué sabemos de...? ('What do we know about...?') is titled Los bulos de la nutrición ('Hoaxes about nutrition'), co-authored by researcher Miguel Herrero.

One of the most-asked questions about diet, Herrero reveals, is which part of bread is the most fattening – the crumb or the crust.

“Given that it has less water in it, the flour parts – basically, carbohydrates – are more concentrated in the crust,” the scientist explains.

“For this reason, if you take the same weight of the crust and the crumb, it's the crust that contains more calories.”

Another common grey area about nutrition involves food items described as 'anti-oxidants', which are said to flush out unwanted substances known as 'free radicals' from the body, reducing the likelihood of illness through preventing premature cell ageing and fighting infection.

“There's not enough scientific evidence on the true rôle of anti-oxidants in diet, in terms of their illness prevention effects,” Herrero cautions.

This said, “there are some indirect signs that makes you think they could have a positive effect – although we don't know to what extent – and more and more studies are being carried out into how anti-oxidants in food are metabolised in humans.

“These will help shed more light on the subject.”

But this hitherto lack of robust evidence is no reason to stop eating blueberries and drinking green tea - “food and drink containing anti-oxidants will not do you any harm,” Herrero clarifies.

“What's not really justified is that these salads, juices and smoothies marketed as 'anti-oxidant' are more expensive, based upon that claim alone – all the ingredients naturally contain anti-oxidants anyway.”

Herrero, additionally, addressed concerns about additives in food – those used to preserve them for longer, or alter their taste, scent and colour.

“Despite their bad press, these additives play a crucial part and they're safe for consumption,” Herrero assures.

“There are food groups like honey, oils, butter, or pasta, for which the use of additives is banned or legally limited, but there are others such as wine, and pre-cooked beans and pulses in tins, where additives are necessary.”

The new book on 'dietary hoaxes' covers how to interpret the labels on food items, containing nutritional information – including the full list of ingredients, which has been obligatory in Spain by law since 2016.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

How to help residents affected by the recent floods

2024-11-09T09:07:52

VARIOUS charities and organisations – local and national – have set up channels for members of the public to help those affected by the storms and flash floods in the province of Valencia.

Valencia regional Red Cross workers delivering aid parcels during a previous campaign (photo: @CruzRojaCV on X.com)

As well as collecting funds, these organisms are seeking food, clothing, bottled water, and other essentials for residents mainly to the south and west of the city of Valencia.

The Red Cross (Cruz Roja) has set up a website for direct cash donations – https://cercadeti.cruzroja.es/ayudaafectadosinundacionesdana – which can also be made by emailing the charity at donativos@cruzroja.es, calling the toll-free number 900 10 49 71, sending a text message to 28092 with the word AYUDA ('help'), or a Bizum to the number 33512.

You may be asked for your Spanish national identity number – DNI for Spanish nationals, or NIE for foreign residents – but those who do not live in Spain can still donate to the Red Cross to help the flood victims.

They can make a bank transfer to the Red Cross account – ES44 0049 0001 5321 1002 2225.

The Red Cross says it is 'prioritising cash donations' at present, since its volunteers and salaried workers on the ground are best place to determine which services those affected need, given that these needs are constantly changing.

Church-based charity Cáritas, which had branches in almost every town in Spain and habitually operates food banks and poverty relief, is also collecting for flood survivors – the organisation says donations can be made via Bizum to 00089, by calling the freephone number 900 33 99 99, or via its dedicated website https://www.caritas.es/emergencias/graves-inundaciones/.

The Comunidad Valenciana regional government, via its treasury office and in partnership with Sabadell bank, has set up an account for donations, of which 100% will go directly to affected residents.

Transfers can be made to the IBAN number ES94 0081 0693 6100 0242 3445.

Banco Sabadell, where the account is based, has pledged to match donations euro for euro, in addition to promising a minimum of half a million euros on top of any funds accrued.

If you are based in the Comunidad Valenciana or in Madrid, your local council is likely to have set up collection points for you to provide tangible goods such as clothing, toiletries, non-perishable food, bottled water and, in many cases, food and other necessities for pets – both those belonging to flood victims, and those at animal shelters cut off by the rising rivers.

One of these collection points is at Valencia FC football stadium, the Mestalla arena on the Avenida de Suecia in the Pla del Real square.

The Madrid-region commuter town of Leganés has set up a collection point in the Local Police and Civil Protection headquarters on the C/ Chile, and has been transporting lorryloads to the affected areas of the province of Valencia.

Leganés town hall says it is collecting non-perishable food, bottled water, clothing and other personal essentials, blankets and towels, as well as buckets and spades to help with the mass clean-up operations.

Toledo (Castilla-La Mancha) to the south of Madrid has asked for similar essential items to be dropped off at a help point at number 4 of the C/ Talavera de la Reina.

Many towns in the Comunidad Valenciana have set up blood donor sessions to help those who have suffered serious injury and illness as a result of the flood.

Eligibility criteria for giving blood can be discussed with the organisers, but usually includes being in generally good physical health, weighing not less than 50 kilos (7st 12lb, or 110lb), being aged at least 18, and not being on certain types of medication.

Animal shelters need foster families, food and volunteers

Animal shelters are also calling for help – Modepran in Valencia's Campanar neighbourhood, on the C/ Nou de Paterna, is asking for 'urgent' foster parents for cats and dogs whose habitual accommodation has been washed away, as well as donations via its account at Banco Sabadell – ES94 2100 1716 8601 0050 3303 – and, for those able to travel to the centre in person, blankets, towels, leads and collars.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Euribor could drop to 2.5% next year as Spain drives economic growth in bloc

2024-10-04T19:18:07

INTEREST rates in the Eurozone could fall to 2.5% next year, having closed August 2024 on 3.75%, according to latest research.

The European Central Bank (BCE) in Frankfurt (pictured) is predicted to reduce interest rates next year (photo: Archive/EFE)

The recently-released report by S&P Global Ratings predicts the lower Euribor rate will come off the back of increasing growth in economies that share the common currency, particularly in Spain and France.

For 2024 as a whole, the Eurozone's GDP is expected to have grown by 0.8%, rising to 1.3% in 2025, as consumer spending and investment increases.

Weaker growth is forecast for Germany this year, but Spain and France are likely to be the main economies driving the GDP upwards, S&P finds.

Whilst inflation remains above the European Central Bank's (BCE's) target of 2%, it has reduced significantly this year, ending August on 2.2%.

Also, consumer price index inflation fell from July's 2.8% to 2.4% last month – a dramatic year-on-year difference, given that July 2023 saw it reach 5.9%.

Analysts are now becoming quietly confident of a Euribor rate cut next year, and estimate that inflation could finally reach the 2% target.

The BCE, then under Mario Draghi, dropped Eurozone interest rates into negative figures for the first time ever in February 2016 in a bid to increase consumer spending, borrowing, and strengthening the economy.

Interest would remain below zero for over six years, as inflation continued at well below the 2% target.

Global inflation in 2022 led current BCE chair Christine Lagarde to increasing the Euribor at its fastest level in history – within 10 months, it had gone from minus figures to around 4%.

This month, the BCE plans to reduce the rate to 3.5% - only the second cut so far in 2024.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Energy-efficiency certificates for Spanish homes explained

2024-10-04T19:15:04

ANYONE who has let out or sold their property in recent years will have gone through the process of obtaining an energy-efficiency certificate – and, if you're planning to sell yours or rent it, you need to know what is involved.

You'll need an official energy rating if you plan to sell or let out your property (photo: Freepik)

But you don't necessarily have to be planning to move – homeowners who intend to stay put for now sometimes look into getting an energy-efficiency certificate to find out what they can do to improve emissions, reduce the amount they spend on electricity bills, and keep their property warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Although it may sound like just another task to grapple with in a long list when you're planning on selling or renting your home, acquiring an energy-efficiency certificate is actually fairly simple, as explained by utility boards Iberdrola and Endesa.

Who needs an energy-efficiency certificate?

Anyone who plans to sell their property or let it to tenants – including commercial properties – whether they are brand-new or pre-owned, provided their 'useful area size' is over 50 square metres. The 'useful area size' definition means that, even if a property is larger than 50 square metres, those parts of it which are technically inaccessible or 'unavailable' – such as thick walls – do not count when measuring floor space.

Properties to let which require an energy-efficiency certificate include those due to be occupied by long-term and permanent tenants, as well as holiday homes that are available for use for at least eight months of the year.

Who doesn't need an energy-efficiency certificate?

Owners of individual properties for sale or rent with a useable floor size of less than 50 square metres are exempt.

If you bought your property brand-new and now intend to sell it or let it out, you may well already have an energy-efficiency certificate. These are now automatically issued, by law, for new builds. But if you have since upgraded your energy rating through extra works – such as adding solar panels, better insulation, or double glazing – you might want to obtain a fresh certificate to reflect its improved category.

Properties left unoccupied – and which will continue to be left unoccupied – for more than eight months of the year do not need an energy-efficiency certificate. This might be the case if, for example, you own a second home that you only intend to let to holidaymakers in July and August, and use for yourself on occasional weekends out of season.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Spain's Paralympians smash medal record at Paris 2024

2024-09-13T20:39:10

Team Spain has smashed its own record medal-count and broken the 40 barrier for the first time.

Spanish triathlete Susana Rodríguez (right) with her guide Sara Pérez (left) winning one of their country's seven Paralympic gold medals (all photos by EFE)

After netting 31 medals in Rio 2016, the post-pandemic Paralympics set another national best for Spanish competitors – the haul of 36 from Tokyo 2020 represented the country's highest figure to date.

A last-minute silver for Alberto Suárez in the marathon brought the Paris 2024 total up to 40 – which included seven golds – and saw Spain shine most of all in swimming, athletics, triathlon and cycling.

Swimming remains the country's strongest discipline, with 15 medals, followed by cycling and athletics with eight each, and four for triathlon.

Spanish Olympic and Paralympic competitors typically have a greater battle on their hands than those of their neighbouring countries, given that government funding is very scarce – the majority have day-jobs – unlike the UK, second from top in the medal count after China, where candidates at the Games receive National Lottery grants.

With the USA third from top, Spain was up against some powerful sporting nations, meaning its Paralympic sportspeople can be justly proud of coming 16^th in the medal total overall.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Homeowner funds for replacing air-conditioning units 'offered in some regions'

2024-08-24T08:50:40

GRANTS of up to €250 are available this year for replacing older air-conditioning units in a bid to encourage greater energy efficiency.

Not all regional governments offer funding, but for those which do, no deadline for applying has been set as yet – meaning it may not be too late to request a cashback.

Known as a Plan Renove ('Renewal' or 'Replacement' Plan), payments are made when installing fitted units with an energy-efficiency rating of at least A+.

Unfortunately, funds are not given for first-time installations – only for upgrading older, existing units with a higher energy consumption.

Typically, applicants need to be registered as resident in the region whose government is offering the cash, meaning the scheme is unsuitable for holiday-home owners who live in a different part of Spain or abroad.

House price rises 'treble national average' in Spain's islands

2024-08-24T08:47:16

RESIDENTIAL property prices rose again in July outside of Spain's major cities, with homes for sale on the islands now breaking post-recession records.

Leading quantity surveyor association TINSA says the average price tag is now 3% higher than a year ago, and that the most recent full-month figures – for July 2024 – reveal an increase of 0.7% in values compared with those of June.

Whilst property price rises are beginning to stagnate in the country's largest metropolitan areas and in land-locked provinces, those in more traditional tourism zones are seeing an across-the-board increase in value.

This is particularly the case in the Balearic and Canary Islands, where property price hikes between July 2023 and July 2024 have reached 8.6% - nearly three times the rate of inflation.

In these offshore regions, average home prices are now above the historic highs seen in 2007 and early 2008 – a time when property values across the country reached unrealistic heights never witnessed before and which preceded a nationwide housing market crash, provoking a long recession.

There is no suggestion of a recurrence of this grim period in Spain's recent history, however: The typical value of a residential property on the islands is around 1.7% above that of late 2007 which, allowing for inflation over the 17 years since, responds more to a healthy demand than an unsustainable property boom.

Coastal tourism enclaves see above-average price increases

TINSA considers this demand to be location-specific, given the Balearics' and Canaries' status as mature and well-established holiday destinations, and says this same factor is also driving up home prices elsewhere on Spain's Mediterranean seaboard.

All down the east coast, homes have risen in value by an average of 6.2% in the past year, with a typical increase in the last month of around 0.4% on the mainland side of the Mediterranean, compared with 1.1% in the Balearics.

The Balearic Islands have seen an 8.6% rise in property values in the past year. The photo (by Santa Eulària des Rius tourism board) shows the Cala Llenya beach in this popular destination in Ibiza

Slowdown in major cities with high housing demand

A general slowdown has been noted this summer in major cities, particularly Madrid and Barcelona, with year-on-year price rises at 2.1% - below the national average and lower than the rate of inflation.

Mortgage applications increase for first time in two years as home prices soar

2024-08-02T10:39:24

DEMAND for mortgages to buy a home has begun to rise for the first time since 2022, despite rates being at their highest levels in nearly a decade.

According to the Central European Bank (BCE), three of the largest economies in the Eurozone – Spain, Germany and Italy – registered an increase in new mortgage applications in the second quarter of this year, after many months of lack of demand due to loans becoming far more expensive.

France, the remaining country in the Eurozone's 'top four' economies, reported no change in demand in the last quarter.

After plummeting demand due to interest rate hikes, applications for consumer loans are now beginning to increase in the Eurozone, the BCE reveals: Forecasts for the second quarter of 2024 in banks across the common currency area averaged around a 6% rise in demand, but latest figures show the reality is nearer 13%, with Spain, Germany and France topping the list.

Spain and Germany also registered a slight increase in business loan requests in the first six months of this year, whilst Italy and France reported a significant decline.

The common currency interest rate, or Euribor, fell below zero for the first time in February 2016, and remained in negative figures until late 2022, when it began to soar at a pace never seen before.

Having topped 4% on some occasions since then, the Euribor closed July 2024 on 3.567%.

Property price rise creates 'affordable housing' crisis in Eurozone

The BCE report states that falling residential property prices have helped push up demand for mortgages in some parts of the Eurozone – particularly Germany, which has seen year-on-year decreases of around 5.7%, and France, with values dropping by 4.8% – although the opposite has been seen in Spain, where purchase prices continue to climb.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Records Spain broke with its Euro win...and other fun facts about La Roja

2024-07-19T07:33:23

SPAIN'S last-minute win against England in the 2024 UEFA Euros comes on the 60^th anniversary of the country's first-ever title in the much-followed competition – and has broken numerous records, too.

Spain makes history with a fourth UEFA Euro title after a 2-1 victory over England on Sunday, July 14 (photo: UEFA)

The party has barely finished for La Roja – their triumphant return from Germany after Sunday's late-night victory was followed by a huge open-air concert in Madrid's Plaza Cibeles, which is, at every other time, a busy traffic island but which, on Monday, featured a star-studded line-up of national music chart-topping artists; then, later that day, the entire team met King Felipe VI at the monarch's main residence in Madrid, the Zarzuela Palace.

Naturally, they had already met HRH Felipe immediately after the match, since the King was watching with the youngest of his two daughters, the Infanta Sofía, 17.

Sofía, who wore red trousers in support of her national team – although her white shirt may have been a nod to England, given that she is currently living in the UK whilst studying at sixth-form college in Wales – looked visibly nervous as the score levelled up before Oyarzábal took it to 2-1 in the 86^th minute.

Spain's national team attended an audience with the Royal family after their win, meeting the Infanta Sofía 17 (left) who was at the match with her father, King Felipe VI, and Princess Leonor, 18 (right). The first time they held the trophy, they were aged one and two respectively (photo by the Royal household, Casareal.es)

Most Euro victories and most consecutive match wins in history

Oyarzábal and his team-mate Nico Williams, whose goals took the cup home to Spain for the fourth time in history, made La Roja the highest-scoring team in the entire trajectory of the Euros: With 15 goals in this year's tournament and only four against in seven matches, Spain has now broken the uninterrupted record held by France who, under Platini in 1984, notched up a total of 14 in five matches to clinch the trophy.

Until now, Spain had been level-pegging with Germany for the most UEFA Euro tournaments won – with three each – but La Roja is now officially in the lead with four titles.

Even though the baby-boomer generation is the youngest to remember Spain's first victory in 1964 – at a time when home television was an extremely rare commodity and most would have followed the matches by radio – no Spaniard born in the 20^th century will ever forget La Roja's 'World Cup sandwich': Their hat-trick of two consecutive Euros in 2008 and 2012 with the 2010 World Cup in between went down in sporting history.

But for fans of every nationality, the writing was on the wall ahead of Sunday's match, despite the huge leaps forward England has made in recent years under Gareth Southgate: Every time Spain's men's – or women's - team has reached a final, it has won.

For the past decade, La Roja has barely made it past a quarter-final, but before Sunday, the team had qualified for, and won, 22 finals, meaning fans were fairly confident that the 23^rd would end the same way.

And in the 2024 tournament, Spain did not lose a single match, giving it a new record of seven consecutive victories – against Croatia, Italy, Albania, Georgia, Germany, France, and then England – breaking that held by France since 1984 when Platini's squad won five consecutive matches, albeit at a time when only eight countries were involved in the competition.

Rising stars and seasoned veterans

In total, 10 players scored goals for Spain during the 2024 Euros – Álvaro Morata, Dani Carvajal, Ferrán Torres, Rodri, Merino, Oyarzábal and Lamine Yamal with one each, Dani Olmo with three, and Fabián and Nico Williams each scoring twice.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

'Second chance' for homebuyers to apply for income tax deduction

2024-06-08T10:31:00

RESIDENTS in Spain who bought a new home before 2013 may still be able to offset the purchase against their annual tax return, if they have not done so already.

If you bought your main home before January 1, 2013 and did not offset the purchase against your annual tax bill, you may still be able to do so (photo by Spanish consumer organisation OCU)

Until that year, buying a main residence in Spain gave the owner tax deductions, but the then Partido Popular (PP) government scrapped this benefit, at a time when taxes in general had sharply risen to aid a flagging economy.

Now, over a decade on, the Central Financial and Contentious Court (Tribunal Económico-Administrativo Central, or TEAC) has created new windows to enable some of those who missed out to backdate their claims.

Anyone who had already applied a tax deduction in their annual return (Declaración de la Renta) in 2012 or before in relation to a main residential property purchase, who had bought their home prior to January 1, 2013, or carried out renovation works on it before that date, would have benefited from the now-defunct reduction scheme.

But some did not apply at all – those who did not have any taxable income, meaning they did not make a declaration, and those who were not obliged to file a tax return and opted not to do so, would not have offset their home purchase.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

Spain is world leader for blue-flagged beaches...again

2024-05-17T06:46:22

ONCE again, Spain holds more blue flags for its beaches and marinas than any other country in the world – a record it has held without interruption for 30 years.

This year, following the official blue-flag awarding procedure, Spain's beaches hold a total of 638 of these prestigious kitemarks – 11 more than in 2023 – with the east-coast province of Alicante boasting the highest number.

La Fossa beach in Calpe, Alicante province – one of just seven in Spain that has held a blue flag non-stop since 1987 (photo: Calpe tourism board)

Another 102 blue flags went to leisure ports – every single applicant in this category - and seven to tour boats.

Following a trend that began to take off two years ago, a growing number of inland beaches have been applying for – and earning – blue flags, with 11 of these in the land-locked western region of Extremadura, whose nearest sea coast is in Portugal.

The newest inland beach entry is for Lerate Bay in Guesalez, Navarra, a single-province region that does not have a coast.

In fact, despite only eight of the 15 regions in mainland Spain having a sea shore, a total of 11 now have blue-flagged beaches – only Castilla y León and Castilla-La Mancha, in the centre of the country, and Aragón and La Rioja in the north, currently have none.

Spain accounts for 15% of blue-flagged beaches on earth, and has consistently beaten every other country since 1994, with Greece and Turkey second and third.

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BBVA begins merger talks with Banco Sabadell

2024-05-04T07:52:48

TWO of Spain's largest high-street banks are reported to be in merger talks, potentially resulting in the joint entity being the second-biggest in the country in terms of share capital.

A merger between BBVA and Banco Sabadell would mean the former holding around 80% of the share capital - and result in the second-largest bank on the high street (photos: Wikimedia Commons)

BBVA bank's board of directors has confirmed to the media that the firm has expressed an interest in a 'possible fusion' with Banco Sabadell, and 'appointed advisors' on the matter.

Banco Sabadell absorbed the now-defunct and ailing CAM bank during the recession years, increasing its presence on the high street and placing it among the biggest names in the financial services industry.

Its share capital is currently valued at just over €236 billion, of which €185.2bn is held in Spain, according to Banco Sabadell's first-quarter results for 2024.

If the merger were to be accomplished, BBVA would be the dominant player, with nearly €802bn in capital worldwide, of which €452.2bn is based in Spain, the bank's most recent accounts reveal.

In total, the resulting mega-bank would hold a global share capital of €1,037bn and €637.5bn nationally.

The stock market value would reach around €73bn, putting the BBVA-Sabadell enterprise only a fraction behind Banco Santander, currently one of Spain's largest corporations.

This figure is nearly double that of the third-largest bank in Spain, CaixaBank, which has a stock market value of €37.5bn.

Worldwide, BBVA has 5,912 branches, of which 1,881 are in Spain – fewer than half, compared with the much more nationally-based Banco Santander, which has 1,203 branches in Spain out of its global total of 1,414.

Following a merger, the resulting corporation would have 7,326 branches and 140,776 employees, of whom over 46,000 are in Spain.

Impact on staff

Many of these 140,776 employees will be feeling apprehensive about the results of merger negotiations, given that this type of operation usually leads to redundancies.

Whilst a number could be redeployed, and a deal may be struck with older workers allowing them to take early retirement, it is estimated that up to 4,000 jobs may disappear due to duplication – particularly in human resources, finances and treasury – and as a consequence of branch closure.

These predictions have been made by professor Ricardo Zion of the EAE Business School, based upon the result of CaixaBank's merger with the partially State-owned Bankia two years ago, when around 6,000 staff members were made redundant.

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Over four in 10 new mortgages are fixed-rate deals

2024-04-25T16:42:39

A SHARP rise in the number of fixed-rate mortgages in Spain has been reported in the past two years – and they now account for 43% of every new loan taken out.

Until spring 2022, mortgages with an interest rate set for between two and 10 years were almost unheard-of in Spain, particularly as variable-rate loans are reviewed annually, meaning relative security in everyday financial planning.

But the unprecedented hike in the Eurozone interest rate, or Euribor, from below zero to above 4% - going from negative figures to over 3% in seven months in 2022 – have led to homebuyers opting for greater long-term stability.

Variable-rate mortgages, which follow the Euribor, are, by default, one-year fixed-rate deals, since the interest that applies is adjusted annually, meaning no unplanned monthly fluctuations to deal with.

Some loans now operate a hybrid system between fixed and variable rates, and are known as 'mixed mortgages' or hipotecas tipo mixto.

These have risen from 14% of new home loans in mid-2022 to 40% in the final quarter of 2023.

Fixed-rate mortgages with a set level of interest remaining the same for between five and 10 years are also fast becoming the norm for homebuyers – between spring 2022 and the end of 2023, they rose from 4% to 17% of new loan deals.

Altogether, mixed and fixed, with a minimum set interest rate of five years, accounted for 43% of new mortgages contracted up to the end of November 2023, according to statistics published by the Spanish Mortgage Association (Asociación Hipotecaria Española, or AHE).

A 'mixed-type' mortgage, the AHE explains, is where the interest rate remains the same for a period of between one and 10 years – effectively, a short-term fixed-rate deal – after which it reverts to a variable-rate loan.

'Pure' fixed-rate loans, with set interest rates for up to 10 years and the option to renew these once the deal expires, continue to make up a significant chunk of new mortgages – but their popularity has declined since the initial Euribor rises.

Back in June 2022, when the European Central Bank (BCE) started a chain of dramatic, consecutive monthly increases in interest, fixed-rate loans came to make up a massive 67% of new mortgage deals – but this has now dropped to 43%, amid cautious optimism that the Euribor may start to come down again as Eurozone inflation levels stabilise.

Traditionally, variable-rate loans made up the bulk of new mortgages, and those still in force since before the Euribor increases – which have not been replaced or renegotiated – as opposed to new loans continue to make up 55% of active loans.

By contrast, post-2022 new mortgage deals on a variable-rate basis only account for 16% of the total.

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