Welcome to DigameXtra !
The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia
Content in this newsletter blog site comes from its Editor, Sponsors & Supporters (Holiday Fundraiser Donors). Submissions are subject to editing and posting at the Editor’s discretion. If I don’t want to post something, I won’t, and I do not owe you an explanation. Content from other sources is credited. The Editor is Naythan, aka DoctorLaptop. Header photo: Cora Unk
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
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Next Public Holidays: April 2026
2 April, Maundy Thursday
3 April, Good Friday
5 April, Easter Sunday
Thus, in April 2026, there is a long weekend break for Easter, DigameXtra will be closed: Thursday, 2 April thru Sunday, 5 April.
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Clock Changes in Andalucia 2026: Daylight Savings Time (DST)
Start DST: Sunday, 29 March 2026 = 1 hour forward
End DST: Sunday, 25 October 2026 = 1 hour backward
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WHAT’S ON
Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!
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41 CLUB NERJA
41 Club Nerja Going From Strength to Strength:
– 41 Club Nerja is delighted to report that we really are going from strength to strength, our membership continues to grow and our doors are open for more new members to join our vibrant Club.
– Do you remember in your local communities all the events that the Round Table and 41 Club organised? Yes! that’s us!
– Do you love getting out and about in our beautiful Axarquia area and also like the idea of being with people who enjoy life and help the local community too? Well, that’s also us! So please come along, meet us, see how we do things, and you don’t even need to have been a member previously.
– We enjoy a wide variety of exciting activities, interesting meetings and tasty meals in many of the lovely restaurants we have in our local area. Our get togethers are attended by our members (who hail from ten different countries) as well as our partners, guests, friends and family too. We’re a very friendly bunch.
To get in touch you can
Email us: briankaret@sky.com
Phone Brian on +34 643510605
You can connect with 41 Club Nerja via Facebook.
Or visit our website to find out more at: https://41clubnerja.org/
We’d love to hear from you and we’d also love for you to come along and join in the fun!
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Almuñécar to host premiere of the Granada Hollywood Orchestra: Saturday 21 March, 7pm
Casa de la Cultura
Tickets cost €15, available at the Casa de la Cultura box office, Azulmarino Viajes Almuñécar and via https://www.giglon.com/todos?idEvent=premiere-de-la-granada-hollywood-orchestra-almunecar
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Cool & The Celt at Siddhartha on the Rock, Competa:
Sunday, 22 March, from 4.30pm
This will be a fun afternoon in Competa. Lots of Celtic songs and tunes with some American stuff and something to dance to.
Call 952516748 or 628177424 for your table or just come along for a drink.
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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/
Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details
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Warning Note: Possible coastal high winds & waves until 8pm Friday.
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Latest AEMET Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and
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NOTICE!
Submissions for posting in sections below
must be signed like this or they will be returned !!!
Sender’s First Name / Nearest Town
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SERVICES WANTED / OFFERED
Check the DigameXtra Sponsor’s list whenever you need a service. By using these services you are helping support DigameXtra. Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!
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TONY ROAM TRANSPORT & REMOVALS
Tony Roam Transport & Removals Spain To UK To Spain:
Fortnightly Runs Spain to UK and Up to 4 weeks free Storage. Spain or UK.
18 years Removals To & Fro Spain / UK Spain.
Man & Van, Local & Long Distance Removals
No subcontracting, all collection and delivery in house.
Transportation, Removals & light haulage company that have scheduled trips all year from UK to Torrox and back every month.
Also additional unscheduled to suit your needs.
Full or part loads undertaken.
Dedicated Delivery Personal Service Full or Part loads up to 60 cubic meters up to 5.5 tonne.
Up to £25,000.00 insurance with British Insurance Company.
Evidence of insurance can be supplied by email on request.
Hard Copies always carried on the vans.
This and a current Operators licence are a legal requirement.
Our International Operators Licence No UKGB / OG2043664
We live just behind Torrox Pueblo in Spain and in South Wales UK and have vans going back and forth UK to Spain to UK by way of Santander or Bilbao / Portsmouth or Plymouth Ferry.
For more information and prices for all to see please visit our website http://www.tonyroamremovals.com
email ; tonyroam@btconnect.com
Spain 0034636393542 – UK 00447973362003.
Face book Tony Roam – WhatsApp Either Number
Our contact details are shown every day in the Sponsor’s Section.
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GREEK CASITA RESTAURANT & BAR
The Greek House – Greek Casita Restaurant & Bar –Torrox Costa: Now with Sunday Lunch!
Located on the sea promenade, between the Safari bar and Picadero restaurants, BLQ 80 bajo. We offer you a little piece of Greece with our Greek home made specialities. You can choose meat specialties (Gyros, Souvlaki, Bifteki, Sutsukaki, Moussaka), cheese (Feta Psiti, Feta Saganaki, Hallumi), vegetables (Greek salad, Hummus, Eggplant cream, Mezze, Tzatziki) or sea fruits (prawns or octopus), all of this accompanied with our special Greek pita bread. For dessert… HOMEMADE BAKLAVA! We offer a lovely meal time in a quiet and exquisite atmosphere, accompanied with the best Greek music. See you soon! Hours: 6:30pm to close, Wednesday thru Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday. For reservations call 642585049. https://la-casita-griega.business.site/ We are DigameXtra sponsors, so our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
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ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES & JUBILEE HOUSE
ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES IN THE AXARQUIA REGION:
Do you have health or mobility issues?
Would support enable you to remain independent in your own home?
Liz Brown, probably the only nurse registered to practice in Andalucia to hold the ENB 941 (Specialist qualification in care of the older person), together with her fully insured and police checked home care support team offers one-on-one support and companionship in the comfort of your own home. COE Malaga reg. 17425
HOME CARE/NURSE SUPPORT
Palliative care / Companionship / Health monitoring English Nurse / Hospital sitting / Respite at home / 24 hr live in care / Housekeeping / Correspondence & Communication / Medication collection & dispensing systems / Dressing, bathing & daily hygiene / Shopping & meal preparation / Fast response Falls Team / Provision of medical equipment such as wheelchairs and hoists
Email: info@englishnurse.care ; Website: https://englishnurse.live-website.com/
Tel: 951550581 or 692419548
JUBILEE HOUSE – Close Care Unit in Torrox
5 ground floor individual units all en-suite
24-hour care at all stages from the English Nurse Care Team
Main language- English / Extensive sea views / Wheelchair accessible / Garden / Home cooking / Wifi / Air conditioning / Visiting physiotherapist, hairdresser, chiropodist and nutritionist
And we welcome guests for the day. Email: jubileehousetorrox@gmail.com
VACANCY- We are now able to accept a couple in spacious accommodation with en-suite facilities. Unique nurse-led facility, offering 1st class personalised care packages, tailored to individual needs. We support independent living. We have a dedicated, compassionate team of English speaking staff, visiting physio, chiropodist, hairdresser.
To discuss your requirements or to arrange to view our beautiful accommodation on Torrox Costa please call Liz (RGN/Enferma-Malaga College) on +34 692419548
We are DigameXtra sponsors, so our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
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DOCTORLAPTOP’S COMPUTER REPAIRS & SALES
DoctorLaptop’s Full Maintenance Clean & TuneUp, €65: Common consumer level anti-virus programs are ineffective against today’s AI generated malware! Identity theft & home title theft are on the rise in Malaga– Every week I see a few clients with hacked computers who thought, “Well, it seemed to be running ok”. Today’s malware doesn’t slow your computer, regular servicing is really your only defence. Learn to do it yourself, or leave it to a pro. Take responsibility for your digital security or you’ll only have yourself to blame when your accounts get hijacked.
DoctorLaptop’s Computer Repairs- Torrox Costa. New laptops in stock!
Windows & Linux computers only. No tablets or phones. I can refer you to a reliable Apple/mobile/tablet tech on request.
I don’t work on computers made before 2019 unless I have been servicing them annually.
Contact: doctorlaptop AT protonmail DOT com
or call 675 993 069 (no calls before 12noon, missed calls returned asap). Always include the make & model number of the device when requesting assistance.
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BUY / SELL / TRADE / RENT / WANTED
Click on pics to enlarge
How to post more photos than the rules allow – use collages. The limit is one pic per item/event. You can combine several of your photos into a
single collage photo by using this free online collage creation tool. It’s very easy to use, give it a try! https://www.photocollage.com/
Are you still dealing with scammers on Fakebook Marketplace?
Sell your items here, to locals, for cash, without the shenanigans.
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For Sale, 2 items:
– 2 Disney ‘Mickey Mouse’ cups, ‘Art Collection’ limited collector’s edition, brand new, in original round boxes with certificate. Nice present for Disney fans: €10 each.
– Hair Curler/Straightener Set for different styling applications, never used, €15.
Marlene, Torrox,
E-Mail: marlenewoerner@web.de
Tel./WhatsApp 606 423 369 (can meet in Torrox or Cómpeta)
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For Sale: New, Budget Friendly Laptop, €420 cash.
Lenovo Ideapad Slim 3 (15IAN8)
Windows 11 in UK English; Keyboard is Spanish
Display- 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080) TN 250nits Anti-glare
Processor- Intel i3-N305, up to 3.8GHz, 8 core, 8 thread
8Gb RAM (soldered), 256Gb SSD
Card reader, HDMI, 2x USB 3.2, 1x USB-C 3.2, Wifi 6, no ethernet (use a USB adapter)
Slim & lightweight- 1.5Kg, only 17.9 mm thick.
Battery- 8 hour, supports Rapid Charge Boost (get 2 hours of runtime with a 15-minute charge).
3 year factory warranty when registered online.
A good laptop for the average user: email, web-surfing, message/chat, streaming video, doc & photo editing. Not intended for advanced video editing or 8-way Zoom meetings. I’ll have 2 powerful business-grade laptops for those purposes next week.
Buyer collects.
Contact: DoctorLaptop, Torrox Costa
Email: doctorlaptop@protonmail.com
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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX
When making a recommendation always include the phone number or website of the biz, service, etc., so readers can reach them. Note: I can’t post third party email addresses.
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NEWS & ARTICLES
(Click the link to read the full article)
{ Translations by www.DeepL.com/Translator }
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SPAIN
Socialist Bombshell– Sanchez’s PSOE Received €250mil In Illegal Campaign Funding From Venezuela’s Socialists: {Trans., summary}
– Businessman Victor de Aldama has handed over to a judge an envelope containing 250 million dollars in oil quotas from Venezuelan state company PDVSA, alleging they were intended to finance the Socialist International and Pedro Sanchez’s PSOE. Aldama testified before Judge Ismael Moreno, who is secretly investigating alleged illegal PSOE financing, confirming the envelope was given to him by Delcy Rodriguez, Nicolas Maduro’s former number two, during her January 2020 visit to Spain. Aldama claims former Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero allegedly channelled these funds through Russian bank accounts using oil industry front men to convert the certificates to cash.
– Legal sources describe Aldama’s statement and the envelope’s delivery as “a bomb” for Moncloa with significant implications for the investigation. The handover follows a previous attempt postponed after details leaked. Sanchez allegedly became president of the Socialist International in November 2022 with funds from the Venezuelan regime. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/2026-03-19/la-declaracion-de-aldama-sobre-los-cupos-de-petroleo-de-250-millones-de-dolares-pdvsa-es-una-bomba-para-moncloa-7376439/
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Sánchez has not set a date for the budget (actually, in Sept. 2025, he promised to have it done this month) and is focusing on measures related to the Iran crisis– ‘We are now focusing on what is important and urgent’:
– Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced at the European Council summit that the government is not currently planning to present the General State Budget, prioritising instead the response to the Middle East crisis. Sánchez emphasised the escalating gravity of the situation and Spain’s commitment to renewable energy as a safeguard against energy price volatility, criticising some EU governments for undermining green policies.
The government will propose measures on Friday to address both immediate and structural impacts of the conflict, focusing on energy transformation. Sánchez called for European unity, asserting that Spain’s stance—rooted in international law and peace—should guide the EU. He urged leaders to uphold shared values to end the war swiftly, warning that the crisis is already affecting Europe.
Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/sanchez-no-pone-fecha-los-presupuestos-se-enfoca-las-medidas-por-guerra-ahora-estamos-importante-urgente_6947914_0.html
ANDALUCÍA
Election Time Gifts To Buy Votes? Moreno announces that public nursery schools will be free for one-year-olds from the 2026/27 academic year: {Trans., summary}
– The President of the Junta de Andalucía, Juanma Moreno (PP), announced this Thursday that, starting from the academic year 2026/27, free provision will be introduced at nursery schools run by the regional administration and affiliated centres for one-year-old children.
– Juanma Moreno’s announcement of free nursery places for one and two-year-olds in Andalusia is a textbook example of election-time vote buying. The president explicitly frames the policy as fulfilling an “electoral commitment” from 2022, with implementation timed for maximum political effect ahead of future elections.
– By promising families savings of up to 2,640 euros per child annually, the measure directly purchases voter loyalty using public funds. The scheme targets working families struggling with economic pressures, offering financial relief in exchange for political support. Moreno’s aim to increase enrolments from 38,000 to 64,000 children creates a expanded constituency financially dependent on the administration’s generosity, ensuring their continued electoral backing while the government presents itself as the benefactor of struggling households. Source, Spanish: https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/sevilla/moreno-anuncia-gratuidad-escuelas-infantiles-publicas-ninos-ano-partir-curso-2026-27/202603191042322371852.html
MALAGA CITY
Has it really come to this…civic workers on hunger strike? Sanitation workers in Malaga begin a hunger strike after 49 days of occupational strike: {Trans., summary}
– The workers of the sanitation network service in Malaga have begun a hunger strike this Thursday after 49 days of strikes without progress in the negotiation with the concessionaire company (FCC-Aqualia) to demand better wages and decent working conditions. This measure comes “after not receiving any kind of response from either the City Council or the company”, said Diego Rico, FCC-Aqualia union delegate, who highlighted the work carried out by sanitation workers, responsible for the maintenance of sewage and rainwater networks.
– “We work 365 days a year, in morning, afternoon and night shifts, even on holidays and weather alert situations. We are necessary, but our working conditions and salaries do not reflect that commitment,” he stressed. It has also denounced decades of delay in labor improvements , including working conditions, work-life balance and remuneration.
– The deputy spokesperson of Con Málaga – a confluence of IU and Podemos – Toni Morillas, has expressed her support for these workers and has pointed out that the staff has been pushed to start the hunger strike “under the threat by the company of a collective dismissal”. “It cannot be that there are workers who do not even receive the national minimum wage”, denounced Morillas, who referred to the “absolutely precarious” conditions of these employees and urged the mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torre, to “assume the negotiation in the first person” to reach an agreement. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/trabajadores-saneamiento-malaga-inician-huelga-hambre_0_2006228197.html
NERJA
Nerja Town Council is planning a new roundabout on Avenida de Pescia: {Trans., summary}
– The Nerja City Council plans to build a new roundabout at the junction of Avenida de Pescia and a future road near the Health Centre. Mayor José Alberto Armijo announced the project after a meeting with the designer and infrastructure officials. The aim is to improve road safety and traffic flow, specifically to ease congestion on Calle San Miguel. The roundabout will provide smoother access to the new Health Centre, a planned car park, and a transport interchange. Councillor Alberto Tomé stated the project is part of a wider infrastructure plan and will include new signage, lighting, drainage networks, and retaining walls. The project will proceed to technical review and tendering once the design document is formally submitted. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-ayuntamiento-de-nerja-proyecta-una-nueva-glorieta-en-la-avenida-de-pescia/
VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA
VOX Vélez-Málaga is calling for urgent solutions to end the isolation of La Zorrilla during floods of the River Benamargosa: {Trans., summary}
– VOX Vélez-Málaga has submitted a motion urging immediate action to address the recurring isolation of La Zorrilla residents whenever the River Benamargosa floods after heavy rain. The area, home to around thirty households, faces severe access issues, as essential services are located across the river. The only alternative is a 20-kilometre detour, disrupting daily life for residents, farmers, and those accessing local land.
– VOX criticises the lack of administrative response, arguing that ensuring connectivity and access to basic services is a government obligation. The motion highlights risks to emergency services and calls for technical studies, elevated access points, and a contingency plan with alternative routes and emergency protocols. The group demands realistic, immediate solutions to a long-standing issue, stressing that rural residents should not be disadvantaged by their location. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/vox-velez-malaga-reclama-soluciones-urgentes-para-acabar-con-la-incomunicacion-de-la-zorrilla-durante-las-crecidas-del-rio-benamargosa/
IZNATE
Iznate is cutting back on fireworks during the Viernes de Dolores festivities and banning their use by members of the public, limited pyrotechnic displays will continue, schedule posted: {Trans., summary}
– Iznate Town Council has restricted pyrotechnics during its Patron Saint Festivities to minimise noise-related disruption, particularly for those with health issues, children, and animals. Rockets, traditionally used to announce events, will be replaced by church bells for the Septenary’s start on Saturday, 21st at 20:30. Private use of firecrackers remains banned.
– Scheduled displays include a rocket salute on Thursday, 26th at 12:00; pyrotechnics on Friday of Sorrows from 09:30 to 12:00, during the afternoon procession, and a 23:30 fireworks show; on Saturday, 28th at 14:00 and 18:00–20:00; and on Easter Sunday from 12:30 to 14:00. The Council urges residents to support these measures, ensuring traditions are upheld while protecting vulnerable groups. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/iznate-reduce-los-cohetes-en-las-fiestas-del-viernes-de-dolores-y-prohibe-su-uso-por-particulares/
SEVILLA
Burqa Bans Expand– Seville City Council has approved a ban on the burqa and niqab in municipal buildings: {Trans., summary}
– The Seville City Council has approved a proposal to restrict access to municipal buildings for individuals wearing full-face coverings including the burka and niqab. The Vox initiative, supported by the Popular Party, passed despite opposition from PSOE and Con Podemos-IU. The measure aims to ensure visual identification of individuals conducting administrative procedures with legal effects, managing personal data, or receiving direct citizen services. Proponents cite the 2015 Citizen Security Law and argue that full-face coverings complicate identity verification and security in public buildings.
– Implementation awaits a legal report determining whether the measure has sufficient support within current regulations. Opposition councillors criticised the proposal as addressing a non-existent problem in Seville and potentially discriminatory, though similar measures have been approved in other Spanish cities including Córdoba, Toledo, and Talavera de la Reina. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/politica/2026-03-19/el-ayuntamiento-de-sevilla-aprueba-prohibir-el-burka-y-el-niqab-en-edificios-municipales-7377452/
EUROPE
Portuguese Government approves bill to speed up deportations, sending it to Parliament for final approval: {Trans., summary}
– The Portuguese Government has approved a new proposed law to accelerate the deportation of irregular migrants. The legislation extends the maximum detention period from two to eighteen months and introduces longer re-entry bans for those forcibly returned. It also ends the “voluntary departure notification,” a separate 20-day notice period that previously preceded forced removal procedures. The government considers this two-stage process redundant and incompatible with ensuring effective returns.
– The bill further includes measures to prevent asylum claims from being used as delaying tactics to postpone expulsion. The Minister of the Presidency cited a recent case where Moroccan migrants used such legal measures to avoid deportation after their detention period expired.
– This proposal, which follows a 2025 law that reformed residence permits and limited family reunification, now requires approval from the Assembly of the Republic before becoming law. The Government maintains that those who enter through legal channels will be welcomed and supported, but those who choose illegality must face consequences. Source, Spanish: https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/internacional/gobierno-portugal-aprueba-ley-acelerar-deportacion-migrantes-irregulares/202603191757262372535.html
USA
The FBI admits it is buying location data to track US citizens:
– The Federal Bureau of Investigation has started buying location data on Americans, Kash Patel, FBI director, said under oath at the Senate intelligence committee worldwide threats hearing on Wednesday.
– Patel’s admission came in response to a question from the senator Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat who is a long-time opponent of the warrantless surveillance of Americans. Wyden told Patel that his predecessor, Christopher Wray, testified in 2023 that the FBI did not at that time purchase location data derived from internet advertising, although he acknowledged that it had done so in the past.
– “Is that the case still?” Wyden asked. “And if so, can you commit this morning to not buying Americans’ location data?” “We do purchase commercially available information that’s consistent with the constitution and the laws under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, and it has led to some valuable intelligence for us,” Patel responded.
– “So you’re saying that the agency will buy Americans’ location data,” Wyden said. “I believe that that’s what you’ve said in kind of intelligence lingo. And I just want to say as we start this debate, doing that without a warrant is an outrageous end run around the fourth amendment. It’s particularly dangerous given the use of artificial intelligence to comb through massive amounts of private information.” “This is exhibit A for why Congress needs to pass our bipartisan, bicameral bill, the Government Surveillance Reform act,” Wyden said, referring to legislation he is working to pass to rein in surveillance.
– While law enforcement must get a judge-authorized search warrant to obtain location data directly from telecom companies, government agencies have instead been able to buy such information from private data brokers. Full article: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/mar/18/kash-patel-fbi-location-data
MIDDLE EAST
Iran’s attacks in the Gulf have exhausted the patience of Arab countries, which are threatening to respond to any further aggression: {Trans., summary}
– Iran’s retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli targets have strained relations with its Persian Gulf neighbours, who have endured strikes on their energy infrastructure since the conflict began. Twelve countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, issued a joint statement demanding Iran cease its offensives, which Tehran claims target only Western interests. The signatories affirmed their right to self-defence, with Saudi Arabia hinting at possible military action if attacks continue.
– The response follows Iran’s missile and drone strikes on regional energy sites—including Qatar’s Ras Laffan refinery, Saudi Aramco facilities, and UAE oil fields—as well as an attack on Israel’s Haifa refinery. Despite the ultimatum, Iran has escalated its rhetoric, warning that its retaliation is ongoing and threatening to destroy US, Israeli, and allied energy infrastructure if further attacks occur. Iranian officials described their recent actions as merely “a fraction” of their capability, promising an “unrestrained” response to any new aggression. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/las-represalias-iran-golfo-acaban-con-paciencia-los-paises-arabes-que-amenazan-con-responder-nuevos-ataques_6948290_0.html
GASTRONOMIA
The Ultimate French Toast– Dani García, a chef from Malaga, and his recipe for French toast without frying in oil or butter, nor air-fryer or oven, “There’s no better recipe than this one.”:
– Too long to post here. See full article & recipe translated to English here: Article Link ; Video Link
HEALTH
NIMBY – Locals Don’t Want the New Hospital- petition against the new hospital in Málaga submitted:
{Trans., summary}
– A neighbourhood group in Málaga has handed in over 8,000 signatures against the new Virgen de la Esperanza mega-hospital planned next to the Civil Hospital. They say the project is too big, too slow to build and too expensive, especially on land that can flood because it lies in the bed of a stream. The group argues that the tall, vertical design will worsen traffic, delay ambulances and make evacuations harder in fires or floods. They also fear years of noise and disruption, as the works will coincide with metro construction, in a very dense district that already has heavy traffic, pollution and almost no green spaces. They warn that access roads will need major upgrades, turning local streets into busy highways. In their view, it would be better and quicker to create new public healthcare capacity in another, safer and less crowded location. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/entregan-8-100-firmas-tercer-hospital-malaga-terrenos-civil_0_2006230003.html
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Another Huge SAS Malpractice Payout: {Trans., summary}
– The Andalusian Health Service has agreed to pay 1.25 million euros in compensation to the parents of a child who suffered severe brain damage due to medical negligence during his birth in a Seville hospital. The baby required resuscitation shortly after delivery and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy and hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. A medical report concluded that inadequate monitoring during labour and a failure to perform an emergency caesarean section, despite signs of foetal distress, were decisive factors. The out-of-court settlement, paid by the health service’s insurer, will compensate for the irreversible injuries. The agreement includes a request for a judicial resolution to formally close the case with no legal costs for either party. {Note: The SAS has now dropped its malpractice insurance coverage in favour of ‘self-insurance’; the last annual premium, for 2025, was reportedly over €31mil. Now the public will have to pay for the frequent malpractice awards, instead of the insurance companies. Who the heck approved that- another hand in the taxpayer’s pocket? BOHICA! -Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/andalucia/padres-son-indemnizados-1250-000-euros-supuestas-deficiencias-medicas-parto/202603191057133230353.html
TECH
This Android bug makes VPNs ‘unusable’ – and Proton VPN is blaming Google:
– A serious Android bug is rendering VPN apps “unusable,” leaving users unprotected against online threats. The issue was first reported to Google back in August 2025 and it is affecting many of the best VPNs. Mullvad and Proton VPN have both alerted Google to the bug, with the latter calling Google out on social media.
– The bug stops a VPN from being able to connect to a server, meaning users can’t access the internet through a VPN connection. There’s still no fix, and because the issue is at the Android system level, VPN companies can’t deploy a fix themselves. Proton VPN said Android 16 is affected and “only Google has the access to diagnose” the problem. Google has not replied to the reports since August 2025. At the time of writing, no fix has been released. {Note: Google does not want you using a VPN. A VPN hides your real IP address, so your internet activity cannot be associated with you. That makes the tracking data far less valuable when Google sells it. -Ed.} Full article: https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/vpns/this-android-bug-makes-vpns-unusable-and-proton-vpn-is-blaming-google
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
AI is homogenizing the way people write and think: {Translation, summary}
– A study from the University of Southern California warns that AI chatbots are standardising the way people communicate and think, threatening human cognitive diversity and creativity. Researchers argue that as billions rely on the same large language models (LLMs) for writing and reasoning, individual expression and collective innovation decline. LLMs reproduce biases from dominant Western languages and ideologies, narrowing perspectives and encouraging conformity.
– Even non-users may feel social pressure to adopt machine-shaped discourse. The team notes that while LLMs can enhance individual productivity, group creativity suffers, and linear reasoning becomes overvalued at the expense of intuitive thinking. The study emphasises that developers should integrate real-world linguistic and cultural diversity, ensuring models reflect the full range of human perspectives. Diversifying both AI systems and user engagement, the researchers conclude, is essential to preserve humanity’s adaptive intelligence and collective problem-solving ability. {No! That would validate Ebonics and other linguistic perversions. Maintaining the long established classic methods and forms facilitates creativity within a common framework encouraging universal comprehension. Diversifying for the sake of diversity is inviting chaos and ignorance. -Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/viruji/ia-homogeneizando-forma-que-personas-escriben-piensan/202603192009583230968.html
SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES
*Click links to read the English language articles*
– Latest info on Salobreña’s new coastal park development
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/costa-tropical/this-what-the-coastal-park-that-salobrena-20260319104323-nt.html
– Medical delays- Malaga hospital calls woman for gynaecological followup four years after first appointment
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/malaga-city/woman-summoned-almost-four-years-later-for-20260319101212-nt.html
– Parauta village calls for help to reopen main source of income: the Enchanted Forest {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/ronda/the-enchanted-forest-asks-for-help-its-20260319103917-nt.html
– US citizens in Malaga: Register to vote for 2026 midterms at local drop-in sessions in Fuengirola and Nerja
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/citizens-malaga-register-vote-for-2026-midterms-20260318110359-nt.html
– Vélez-Málaga tax office moves to new facilities
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/the-patronato-recaudacion-opens-new-office-velezmalaga-20260319124736-nt.html
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CHURCHES & WORSHIP
Churches: Please submit your posts on Thursdays only, before 6pm.
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NEW LIFE CHURCH
New Life Church
– Sunday Service:
Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us on Sundays at 11.00am. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards.
– Prayer Meeting:
You are also welcome to join our prayer meetings on Wednesday mornings at 11.00am for 1 hour, where we meet for prayer and worship.
– Jesus said: “I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me”. (John 14:6)
Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780. Directions: Click Here
Email: info@nlcnerja.com
Website: www.nlcnerja.com ; Facebook
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EL PUENTE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
El Puente Christian Fellowship (Vélez-Málaga): We are a friendly, multi-national, Bible believing community of Christ. We meet each Sunday at 11am to worship the Lord. We enjoy a time of worship with contemporary songs and traditional hymns, and a message brought to us by our Pastor, one of our members or a visiting speaker.
The church meeting hall is situated at: Res: El Olivar 5, 8 Bajo 1, Calle Arbequin, Velez Malaga 29700.
Full directions and further information can be found on our Facebook page, or you can contact us by email on elpuentechristianfellowship@gmail.com or by phone on 665626342.
For those who cannot join us in person, we aim to stream Sunday services via the Facebook page (subject to a good internet connection).
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DOG ADOPTIONS
Axarquia Animal Rescue – Voluntary Charity – non profit organisation:
CIF G93245116 ; Charity Number 10567 (Spain)
Email: axarquia-rescue@hotmail.com
Website: www.axarquiaanimalrescue.com
– Patch & Oreo are 2 brothers, 6 months old, and fully vaccinated. Beautiful playful pups, in a foster home with other dogs and children, happy, sociable, and love everyone they meet, the perfect family pets.
Please take a look at our website, where you will find more information and photos, plus details of other dogs and pups that we have in our care. Our adoption costs are 110e for pups that have been fully vaccinated, rabies, chip and passport. 180e for older dogs that have all vaccinations, neutered and passport. This contributes towards their vet and care costs, and helps us to continue rescuing abandoned dogs and cats.
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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION
Free Comic Strips provided by https://www.arcamax.com/comics
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Ojen, Spain Walking Tour – A Stunning Village Next to Marbella: Video Link
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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com
Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies
Last updated Mar 20, 2026, 00:51 UTC
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Fun & Games
National Geographic Photo of the Day: Click Here
NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day: Click Here
Word of the Day: Click Here
Quote of the Day: Click Here
Fact of the Day: Click Here
Born Today: Click Here
Today in History: Click Here
Today’s Front Pages (New Link), worldwide: Click Here
Daily Mail UK- Daily Sudoku: Click Here
Cinesur El Ingenio Films schedule: You can find the film schedule at this link. Films tagged as (VOSE) are in the original language with Spanish subtitles.
https://www.cinesur.com/es/cine/mk2-cinesur-el-ingenio
Useful Links, Info & Numbers
Petrol Prices, updated daily: These are the fuel stations in Malaga province with the lowest prices. The price data for 95 and 98-octane petrol and diesel fuel is updated every day. See it here:
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/updated-daily-these-20220314114157-nt.html
Andalucia Reservoir Data, updated daily: The direct link to the old familiar chart page no longer works. Here is the new way to access it. This link takes you to the map version.
https://www.redhidrosurmedioambiente.es/saih/visor/visorE ; to see the chart version click this link, then in the menu bar click Data (Datos) > Reservoirs (Embalses) > Breaking News (Datos de ultima hora)
Weekly Markets
Monday: Torrox Costa
Tuesday: Nerja, Salobrena
Wednesday: Rincon de la Victoria, Algarrobo Costa
Thursday: Velez Malaga, Torre del Mar, Frigiliana
Friday: Almunecar, Salobrena, La Herradura- Summers only, Mercadillo de La Cala del Moral- Rincon de la Victoria.
Saturday: Competa, Mezquitilla@Algarrobo behind the Sala Ottowa
Sunday: Nerja Car Boot
Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231
Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112
Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238
Local/National News in English, The Sur: http://www.surinenglish.com/
Local Weather: https://www.accuweather.com/en/es/torre-del-mar/306652/weather-forecast/306652
Bus Info: https://www.alsa.com/en/home
Currency Converter: https://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=GBP&amount=1
Internet Speed Test: http://beta.speedtest.net/
Local Bank Holidays: http://www.officeholidays.com/countries/spain/index.php UK Newspaper Front Pages and Worldwide Newspapers All On One Site: https://www.thepaperboy.com/uk/front-pages.cfm
Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/
DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://torrox-computer-pc-repair-service-by-doctorlaptop.webnode.page/
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