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.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
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WHAT’S ON
Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!
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PHOENIX CLUB
Phoenix Club: The Phoenix Social Club is open to all nationalities but the lingua franca is English.
We offer an opportunity to make friends, help each other & share information but primarily to have fun in a friendly and inclusive association. You do not have to be a member to join us on our trips.
Our handmade greetings cards are for sale weekly with all proceeds to the Red Cross. We would be happy to accept any greeting cards you may have to re-cycle into fantastic cards.
We meet every Thursday between 12 and 2 pm at Chine in Caleta, just off the coast road to/from Algarrobo.
*Trips/Events*
~All trips/events include a driver’s gratuity
June
– 2nd – Trip to Gib €20pp
– 24th – Trip to Estepona on Market day and a visit to the Orchid House. Price €25. Entry to the Orchid House is 3€ pp not included. Opening hours are 10.00 to 13.30 hrs and 15.00 to 18.00 hrs
July
– 3rd – Visit the Victoria Brewery AM, Car Museum PM. Lunch not included. Price 32€pp includes entry to both Museums
August
– 15th – Almunecar fireworks
September
– 2th – A visit to the Zoo in Castellar, Cadiz Province. Price TBC. A change of date due to the heat forecast in July. This rescue center is a private initiative that has been operating since 1998 and opened to the public in 2002 and founded to help animals seized by the authorities.
For information call Gail on 626370695 (Whatsapp)
email: phoenixsocialclub@yahoo.co.uk
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The Birra & Art Festival- Rincón de la Victoria: Fri-Sun, May 22, 23, and 24, Plaza Al-Ándalus, free entry.
Craft beer & live music.
Info: https://mmalaga.es/agenda/birraart-eventos-malaga/
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Lito Blues Band: Fri 22 May 22:00 – Good tickets still available!
Clarence Jazz Club, Malaga
The great blues guitar master, Lito Fernández, has created this band to enjoy his music- several generations in a single band to explore the complete history of the genre from its beginnings to the present day.
Info & tix (€18, 15, 12): (scroll to bottom of page for tix sales) https://www.clarencejazzclub.com/wp/events/lito-blues-band-2/
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FreakCon 26: Geek Culture in Malaga. Fri – Sun, 22 – 24 May
Torremolinos Conference Centre
C/ México 3, Torremolinos, Málaga
FreakCon is the pop culture, film, TV series, comics, video games, and anime festival that brings together true enthusiasts of the geek universe. A space where creativity, entertainment, and passion converge for an epic weekend. From artists and content creators to actors, cosplayers and video game developers, at FreakCon you can enjoy talks, exhibitions, tournaments, displays and interactive activities that immerse you in your favorite worlds. Info & tix (€17, 1day / €25, 2day): https://freakcon.es/entradas/
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Spring Festival, Cómpeta: Saturday, 23 May
Plaza Almijara hosts music & DJs in a special “Black Mamba Urban Fest”.
Info: https://turismocompeta.com/es/agenda/eventodetalle/271/-/fiesta-de-la-primavera &
FB Link with video.
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Sexitanian Metal Fest: Sat, 23 May, 5pm
Parque el Majuelo, Almunecar
Headliners: Obús and Muro + 3 more bands
Info & tix (€20 adv / €25 door): https://sexitanian.com/fest-iii/
Under 18s need authorization form, download on website, at bottom of ticket purchase form.
Obús Video Link
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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/
Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details
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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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ARCHGROVE TRANSPORT SERVICES
Archgrove Services: A family run light haulage/transport company with bases in Archez, Spain and Cambridgeshire.
We are part of the ADH Storage and Transportation company and as such have storage available in Competa and Puente Don Manuel. Very reasonable rates.
We provide a one stop service for all your transport needs and pride ourselves on reliability, flexibility, good communication and a very much ‘can do’ approach. No job is too small and there is always a solution.
Our services include:
-Regular runs between UK and Spain
-Transport of personal property from full house moves to small single items
-Man & Van services
-Packing, including supply of packing materials
-UK Home shopping with UK delivery address
-Storage of property and vehicles in Spain
If we can be of service please contact Gail. We are on Facebook and always available to chat through your needs and provide a free no obligation quote if required.
UK: 0044 7846672013
Spain: 0034 951 066 093
Email: archgroveservices@gmail.com ; FB Link
Our contact info is also in the DigameXtra Sponsor’s Section everyday.
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SPW CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
SPW Construction Services: Professional high quality building service, fully qualified tradesmen to all trades.
Extensions, retaining walls, driveways, swimming pools, damp problems, roofs, blocked drains.
Replacement kitchens and bathrooms, Tiling and terraces. Plumbing, electrics and plastering, painting.
Architect service, building licence applications.
Handyman service now available for those smaller jobs.
Water Deposit Installations: Due to the ongoing drought and current water restrictions SPW Construction are currently offering the following service.
– Supply and installation of new above or below ground water deposits. 1000 litres up to 25000 litres. Delivered and installed, all relevant plumbing. All work warrantied.
– We can also advise you or help to organise water deliveries from local suppliers.
Selling Your House? SPW Construction can offer you a bespoke package to prepare your house for sale.
Through our extensive relationships with Agents, buyers and sellers we understand what is required to present your home to potential purchasers.
Interior & Exterior decoration / Replacement bathrooms and Kitchens
Pool Reforms / Garden tidy
DAFO Compliance, septic tanks, solar installations, etc.
Roof checks / Damp proofing
For free consultation and estimate contact us on 622938440
or email: scottparkwilson AT yahoo DOT co DOT uk
Scott/Arenas. Home Page and FB-Link
Our contact info is also in the DigameXtra Sponsor’s Section everyday.
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REDWELL INFRARED HEATING SYSTEMS
Redwell Infrared Heaters for Inside
Manufacturer warranty 10 years
ONLY products from Germany and Austria
Product Range:
– Wall and ceiling infrared heaters
Mirror, Pictures, Glass, white & color
– Mobile Heaters, free standing on wheels
– Under table Heaters
– Analog & Digital Controlling Systems, Thermostats Systems
– LED Light Frames, 2 year warranty
For 20 years we have supported clients in Spain with the highest quality Infrared Heating Systems available on the market.
Request information without any obligation.
Location:
Axarquia Service-Center, Postbox 028
Dipl.-Ing. Svend Scharler
29793 Torrox Park, Malaga
E-mail: sscharler@gmx.de Web: https://redwell.com/
Office: 952539742 ; Mobil: 606423869. We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
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HANNINGTONS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS
Hanningtons Kitchens and Bathrooms: We have been installing kitchens and bathrooms here on the Costa for 13 years. We pride ourselves on our professionalism, highest standards of work and customer service.
Whether you are thinking of updating an existing kitchen or bathroom, or whether you wish to create the kitchen or bathroom you have always dreamed of, we are here for you, every step of the way.
With an unrivalled knowledge of the best local materials and suppliers we are able to work to all tastes and budgets.
Our full range of services includes:
– Installations and Refurbs
– Wall & Floor tiling
– Full range of Plumbing work including radiators and underfloor heating
– Solar Installation
– Design & planning ideas to get the look you are after
– Electrical works
– Alter / Install walls, dropped ceilings and hang doors
– Plastering, woodwork and floor levelling
Visit our FB page on the link below to be inspired
https://www.facebook.com/hanningtons.kitchens.and.bathrooms/
Call us : 669 665 156
Email us: hanningtons.bathrooms@gmail.com ; Our contact details can be found in the Sponsor’s Section at the bottom of every issue.
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MANDY’S PAINTBOX
Mandy’s Paintbox: Painter for 34 years in Nerja area. NEW JOB PHOTOS.
Painting work undertaken. Inside and outside, large or small. Furniture painted or sprayed. Kitchens, cabinets, wardrobes doors any colour any surface. Check out the before and after photos, all the furniture was spray painted. Call for advice. WhatsApp 680739577
Email: josiahamanda@gmail.com
My contact details can be found in the Sponsor’s Section at the bottom of every issue. Here are “before” (left) and “after” (right) pics from my latest job.
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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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BLUCEE REAL ESTATE
BluCee Real Estate – Taking Your Property to the World:
– At BluCee Real Estate, we don’t just sell homes in Spain, we take them to an international market.
– Over the past few weeks, our team has been travelling across the United States, attending exhibitions in Dallas and Denver, where we connected with motivated buyers actively searching for homes and investment opportunities in Spain.
– These exhibitions allow us to showcase our properties directly to a highly targeted audience of serious international buyers, giving our vendors valuable global exposure.
– We are now back in Spain and continuing that momentum.
– If you are considering selling your property, now is the time to act. Listing with BluCee Real Estate means your property will benefit from international marketing, direct promotion at overseas exhibitions, and access to a wide network of qualified buyers.
– Our next event will be A Place in the Sun Live, London, taking place on 8th, 9th and 10th May, where we will once again present our portfolio to thousands of UK buyers looking for property in Spain.
– List with BluCee Real Estate and ensure your property reaches a wider, global audience.
– Contact us today to find out how we can help you achieve the best possible result.
BluCee Real Estate
Your property. Our global reach.
A free, honest property valuation. No pressure, just professional advice.
Email: info@blucee.com Web: www.blucee.com
WhatsApp: +34 711 04 27 27
Office: +34 951 55 38 90
Visit us: Calle Timón 11b, Torre del Mar, 29738, Málaga
Proud sponsors of DigameXtra, our contact details can be seen everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
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AXARQUIA SILVER & GOLD TRADE
Axarquia Silver & Gold Trade– Unique Handcrafted Coin Rings & Much More:
***Services Offered***
– Buying all kind of Silver and Gold:
Silver coins and Gold coins, bullions and bars.
Jewellery and cutlery (no collector prices!).
– Selling handcrafted Coin Rings and Jewellery: Handcrafted rings, made from silver or gold.
There are many options possible– I will handcraft your individual silver or gold ring. Choose, for example: a coin from your year of birth; a custom present for a friend; choose a JFK ½ Dollar coin; or a $1 Dollar coin from 1921 is available. I have silver from Spain; 100 Pesetas coins from 1966 for something special; and many more. You can get it shiny or black or a mix. I look forward to creating something very special for you. You want big sizes for men? No problem!
– General Metals Markets Information:
I am trading now more than 10 years in physical silver and gold. If you are interested, make an appointment.
– Make an appointment by mail or phone.
Mail: sscharler@gmx.de
Call Svend Scharler: +34-606423869
I have my office and meeting point at the Axarquia Service Centre, local 101, 29793 Torrox Park. We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
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DoctorLaptop’s Computers For Sale
Click Here To See What Is Available
Or use this link: https://wp.me/P6BZGh-BoO
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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
The reality of the employment situation in Sánchez’s Spain is not as rosey as he’d like us to believe– four out of ten salaried workers do not earn the minimum wage!: {Trans}
– In recent months, we have become accustomed to government agencies boasting that never before have so many people worked in Spain as today, with Pedro Sánchez being the one who most proudly highlights this achievement. But what is the reality?
– A few days ago, the Tax Agency published a series of data on the composition of wages in Spain for the 20.6 million salaried workers in 2024. One of the most striking data points from this report is that 37% of salaried workers in 2024 earned a salary equal to or below the Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMI), see chart.
– The fact that there are workers who, throughout the year, received a salary below the SMI is generally explained because a significant portion of them worked part-time and/or did not work the entire year. In any case, that 37% of salaried workers earned a salary equal to or below the SMI reflects that our economy does not generate enough wealth to sustainably increase wages in line with productivity.
– As can be seen in the table, 25.2% of salaried workers in 2024 earned a salary equal to or above twice the SMI. Only 4.7% workers earned more than 60,000 euros that year. Even smaller is the number of workers who earned a salary equal to or above 134,901 euros, representing only 0.74% of all salaried workers.
– Regarding younger workers, we can state the following: 77.6% of young people aged 18 to 25 who were salaried workers in 2024 (2.4 million) earned a salary below or equal to the SMI, while only 1.9% of these young people received a salary equal to or above twice the SMI.
– On the other hand, if we analyze how wages are distributed between Spaniards and foreigners, we also see significant differences. Among the 17.96 million Spanish salaried workers in 2024, 34.9% earned a salary equal to or below the SMI for the entire year, while in the case of foreigners, it reaches 50.7% of the 2.67 million salaried workers in 2024. That is, more than half of foreign workers received a salary equal to or less than the SMI.
– Thus, if there is one thing we observe when we analyze the wage composition of workers in Spain, it is that our economy is not as healthy as the government wants us to believe, among other reasons, due to the labour and tax policies that have been applied for almost 8 years. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/libremercado/2026-05-17/la-realidad-del-empleo-de-sanchez-cuatro-de-cada-diez-asalariados-no-supera-el-smi-7403898/
ANDALUCÍA
Andaluz Elections 2026– PP wins but Moreno loses his absolute majority and cannot avoid negotiations with Vox due to Adelante’s rise and the PSOE’s further decline: {Trans, summary}
– Juanma Moreno’s People’s Party (PP) won the regional elections in Andalusia on May 17th by a wide margin, but fell two seats short of an absolute majority (55 deputies) after losing five members of parliament. This leaves them with no option but to form a coalition with Vox, following the precedents set in regions like Extremadura, Aragon, and Castile and León. Vox only gained one seat compared to the 2022 elections, but achieved its goal of being decisive for Moreno’s investiture.
– Meanwhile, the PSOE, led by María Jesús Montero, suffered its worst result ever, securing only 28 seats in what had traditionally been its strongest stronghold across Spain. To its left, Adelante Andalucía experienced spectacular growth under José Ignacio García, increasing its representation from two to eight seats, a rise mirroring the PP’s loss, allowing it to overtake Por Andalucía, a coalition comprising IU, Podemos, Sumar, and other left-wing parties. Por Andalucía, led by Antonio Maíllo, held on with five seats, guaranteeing it a parliamentary group. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/noticia-moreno-pierde-mayoria-absoluta-no-evita-lio-vox-subida-adelante-nuevo-descenso-psoe-20260517230451.html
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Vox strengthens its position with one more seat and becomes key for Moreno to govern: {Trans, summary}
– Vox has increased its representation in the Andalusian Parliament, reaching 15 seats in the recent elections, one more than in 2022. This advance consolidates the upward trajectory of Santiago Abascal’s party and gives it a decisive role in shaping the new government, even though Juanma Moreno’s People’s Party (PP) won, but without securing an absolute majority.
– Although the percentage obtained in Andalusia is lower than those obtained by Vox in the regional elections of Extremadura (16.9%), Aragon (17.9%) and Castile and León (18.9%) this year, where its representation practically doubled, the result in this community is considered better than expected and allows Vox to influence the PP, as has happened in the other regions. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/elecciones-andalucia-17-mayo/vox-refuerza-posicion-escano-mas-convierte-llave-moreno/202605172328333388153.html
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Conservatives win election in Spain’s Andalusia, but need far right to govern:
– The conservative People’s Party won the election in Spain’s southern Andalusia region but lost its absolute majority, results showed on Monday, forcing it to forge an alliance with far-right party Vox to remain in power.
– Sunday’s vote in the most populous Spanish region was a test of political strength ahead of a national election expected to be held next year. The same right-wing coalition hopes to oust Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez from the national executive’s helm after nine years of leftist rule. In the Andalusia campaign, issues including public health shortcomings, drug trafficking and unemployment played heavily.
– The PP garnered the largest share of the vote with 53 seats, down from 58 in 2022 and below the absolute majority of 55 in the 109-seat regional parliament. The Socialists shed two seats for a total of 28, the party’s worst-ever showing in its erstwhile electoral stronghold, while Vox obtained 15 seats, up from 14 in the last election. Left-wing regionalist party Adelante Andalucia surged to eight seats from the two it got four years ago, while the leftist alliance Por Andalucia kept the same five seats it already had.
– “We said it would be complicated. We have fallen short,” said regional leader Juanma Moreno of the PP, who had campaigned on the promise of a moderate government without Vox. The PP has already formed coalition pacts with Vox in the regions of Extremadura and Aragon and is likely to do so in Castile and Leon in coming weeks. The Socialist candidate Maria Jesus Montero, who had until now served as the country’s Budget Minister and Sanchez’s first deputy, acknowledged the bad results and vowed her party would learn from its mistakes.
– Andalusia was deeply Socialist until 2018, when anti-establishment anger led to a surge of support for Vox. For the first time in Spain’s democratic history, the PP reached an agreement with the far right to secure its backing, but the deal was undone in 2022 with the PP’s absolute majority. They have no lost that majority: Full article: https://www.reuters.com/world/conservatives-win-election-spains-andalusia-need-far-right-govern-2026-05-18/
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Andalusian real estate transactions cool down with a 6.5% decrease in March: {Trans, summary}
– In March, Andalusia saw a 6.5% decrease in home sales compared to the same month last year, totaling 12,494 transactions, according to figures from the National Institute of Statistics (INE). Of the total sales in Andalusia, 11,474 were for market-rate homes and 1,020 for subsidized housing. Regarding the age of the properties, 3,229 transactions involved new homes, while 9,265 involved existing homes.
– This drop exceeds the national average, where the decrease was 2.2%. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/andalucia/compraventa-andaluza-enfria-65-menos-12494-operaciones-marzo/202605181057563388337.html
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The sweltering heat arrives in Andalusia this week, with highs of 39 degrees in Seville and tropical nights: {Trans, summary}
– Andalusia begins a markedly warmer week, with temperatures rising well above 30 degrees and approaching 40 degrees in the Guadalquivir valley. Seville will be one of the hottest cities, reaching 39 degrees between Thursday and Saturday, with minimums near 20 degrees that will bring the first tropical nights of the year. Cordoba will reach around 35 degrees, while Granada, Huelva and Jaen will exceed 32 degrees. Clear skies and strong sunshine will create a fully summery atmosphere from midweek.
– AEMET warns that this warm episode will affect much of Spain, with maximums above 32 or 34 degrees in central, southern and north eastern areas. Extremadura, Andalusia and the Ebro valley will be the most affected, and Badajoz may reach 39 degrees. This rise contrasts sharply with the unusually cool May so far, as the expansion of the Azores anticyclone brings stability, dry air and intensified heat. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/andalucia/sevilla/llega-calor-sofocante-andalucia-esta-semana-maximas-39-grados-sevilla-noches-tropicales_6971654_0.html
AXARQUÍA
Socialist/Libs take a beating– The PP wins in 28 of the 31 municipalities of the Axarquía region in the 2026 Andalusian elections– The PSOE only manages to win in Alfarnate, Almáchar and El Borge: {Trans, summary}
– The People’s Party (PP, conservative) has once again demonstrated its electoral strength in the Axarquía region, becoming the most voted party in 28 of the 31 municipalities in the Andalusian Parliament elections held this Sunday, May 17. The Socialist Party (PSOE) only managed to win in Alfarnate, Almáchar, and El Borge , in an electoral map predominantly blue in the Axarquía territory. The PP has achieved sweeping victories in the major municipalities of the region, consolidating outstanding results in towns such as Vélez-Málaga, Nerja, Torrox, Rincón de la Victoria and Algarrobo, where they have far surpassed the other political formations.
– Meanwhile, Vox continues to grow in numerous municipalities across the region and is consolidating its position as the third largest political force in much of the area.
– The results reinforce the PP’s leadership in the province of Malaga, where the party led by Juanma Moreno has once again been the most voted option, obtaining nine provincial deputies in the Andalusian Parliament, which means that Sandra Extremera from Torrox, number 8 on the popular list for the province, will become a member of parliament. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-pp…
MALAGA PROVINCE
These are the towns in Malaga that have voted the most for Vox in these Andalusian elections: {Trans, summary}
– Vox consolidated its presence in Málaga province during the Andalusian elections won by Juanma Moreno. Vox achieved its best percentages in the Serranía de Ronda, the Costa del Sol and the Axarquía. The towns where Vox was dominant with their percentages are Parauta 23.77%, Manilva 21.36%, Benahavís 21.04%, Canillas de Albaida 20.85%, Guaro 19.86%, Benamocarra 19.47%, Cómpeta 19.42%, Mijas 18.98%, Estepona 17.99% and Marbella 16.4%. Many municipalities where Vox performed best are geographically close, including Parauta, Júzcar, Faraján and Algatocín in the Serranía de Ronda, plus Manilva, Casares, Estepona and Benahavís on the western Costa del Sol. The party maintains a strong presence in coastal towns and some small inland municipalities of Málaga. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/malaga/2026/05/18/son-pueblos-malaga-han-votado-vox-elecciones-130357307.html
TORROX
The PP of Torrox celebrates a “historic victory” in all 17 polling stations of the Andalusian elections and Sandra Extremera wins a seat in Parliament: {Trans, summary}
– The People’s Party (PP) of Torrox celebrated the results of the regional elections tonight, which consolidate the party’s leadership in the municipality after securing the majority of votes at every polling station, obtaining more than 3,000 votes and 44.40% of the total, more than doubling the votes received by the second-place party. The local PP president and mayor, Óscar Medina , expressed his deep gratitude to the voters for their trust and offered his sincere congratulations to Sandra Extremera {pic}, number 8 on the party’s list for the province of Málaga , following her confirmation as a member of the Andalusian Parliament. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-pp-de-torrox-celebra-una-victoria…
NERJA
The Regional Government takes a new step to regulate the Chíllar River with two bids for its management: {Trans}
– The Andalusian Regional Government has taken another step in the process of regulating visits to the Chíllar River with the publication in the Official Gazette of the Andalusian Regional Government (BOJA) of the file authorizing the occupation of the public water domain with controlled access to the area. As reported by Eugenio Cabezas in Diario SUR, the procedure confirms the acceptance of two business proposals to assume the future tourism management of the site.
– The accepted bids correspond to Iniciativas Turísticas Ardales SLU (Travelnatura) and Construcciones Sánchez Domínguez-Sando SAU. A one-month period of public consultation is now open allowing for opposition and suggestion submissions, while the projects can be consulted both electronically and in administrative offices in Malaga.
– This progress comes after the first failed attempt, discarded in March 2025 due to unfavorable technical reports, and keeps on the table a model inspired by the Caminito del Rey, with daily quotas, access control, and surveillance . Despite this, the reopening of the site remains unscheduled , as key sectoral reports on safety, access, parking, and environmental issues are still pending.
– The Chíllar River has been closed since August 8, 2023, by decision of the Nerja City Council , after years of overcrowding, rescues, and increasing environmental pressure on this natural area. While tourism sectors advocate for its regulation to allow for reopening, environmental groups reject any approach that involves economic exploitation or charging for access to the riverbed.
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/la-junta-da-un-nuevo-paso-para-regular-el-rio-chillar-con-dos-ofertas-para-su-gestion/
RINCÓN DE LA VICTORIA
Rincón de la Victoria hosts the charity concert ‘Fusion of Roots- Gospel Flamenco’: {Trans, summary}
– Rincon de la Victoria will host the charity concert “Fusion of Roots, Flamenco Gospel” on 26 June, organised by the Torre Fuerte Cultural Association and the local Department of Culture. The event begins at 21:00 and brings together the Victoria Gospel Choir, Flamenco Events and guest performers, blending flamenco expression with gospel spirituality. The Councillor for Culture highlights the auditorium’s growing cultural role and the strong public support for this second consecutive edition. The concert maintains its charitable purpose, with €10 tickets raising funds for the House of Hope Association in Ghana, which requires financial support for a completed surgical operation and postoperative care for a child with severely bowed legs. The organisation also shelters orphaned and abandoned children. The evening will include live music, dance and a food and drink area, with all proceeds contributing to the cause. Tickets can be purchased online: https://asociaciontorrefuerte.org/eventos/
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/rincon-de-la-victoria-acoge-el-concierto…
BENAMARGOSA
Benamargosa will host the Vuela Tech Senior 2026 Fair to bring new technologies closer to the elderly: {Trans, summary}
– Benamargosa will hold the Vuela Tech Senior Fair 2026 on 2 June, aimed at introducing people over 58 to digital tools through practical and accessible activities. Supported by local Vuela Points and the Regional Government of Andalusia, the event promotes digital inclusion and shows that technology can be useful and enjoyable at any age. The programme includes virtual reality, artificial intelligence workshops, robotics demonstrations, 3D printing and interactive sessions. Breakfast, raffles and surprises will help create a friendly atmosphere that encourages participation and shared learning. The organisers stress that the fair seeks to reduce the digital divide, support active ageing and improve the quality of life of older people. Attendance is free, and those interested should contact the town hall or Vuela Point. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/benamargosa-acogera-la-feria…
ALCAUCÍN
Alcaucín City Council prohibits the consumption of tap water in several parts of the municipality due to heavy metal contamination: {Trans}
– The Alcaucín City Council has issued a municipal decree informing of the prohibition of the use of mains water for human consumption in several areas of the municipality after an incident of heavy metal contamination was detected in the latest analysis carried out on the water reservoir of El Cerro.
– According to the official statement, the Health Department has proposed declaring the water in the Venta Baja-Puente Don Manuel network (R-25419) “unfit for consumption,” meaning that households supplied by this reservoir will not be able to use the water for drinking, cooking, or any other food-related purpose until further notice.
– The City Council clarifies that water may only be used for personal hygiene and domestic cleaning while this preventative measure remains in effect.
– To ensure water supply to the affected population, the City Council will implement an alternative delivery system using water tankers that will rotate through different parts of the municipality. Additionally, in the El Cerro-Puerta El Vergel and La Torrecilla areas, bottled water will be provided.
– The tankers will be located in different locations in Cruce Don Manuel, Puente Don Manuel, Venta Baja and Puente de Salia, from 08.00 to 24.00 hours, with rotating shifts established by time slots.
– The City Council has asked residents to use water responsibly and follow the instructions of health and municipal authorities while the relevant controls and analyses continue. The public notice will remain in effect until further official announcement.
Info: Alcaucín Ayuntamiento FB Page
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-ayuntamiento-de-alcaucin-prohibe-el-consumo-de-agua-potable-en-varias-puntos-del-municipio-por-contaminacion-de-metales-pesados/
IMMIGRATION IN SPAIN
Immigration Fraud is Widespread, Another Local Example– 34% of applications in Algeciras gave false residences: {Trans, summary}
– The Local Police of Algeciras have detected another 149 allegedly fraudulent registrations of foreign nationals after inspections carried out on the registrations recorded in the municipal register during the last month of April. The investigation, carried out by plainclothes officers from the Delta Group, reviewed the actual residence of 440 citizens of 25 different nationalities who had recently registered in the city. The results once again uncovered numerous irregularities.
– Among the addresses provided were non-existent homes, boarded-up or under-construction houses, commercial premises used as supposed residences, and even a hair salon. The agents also detected properties where ” a family has lived for generations “with no connection whatsoever to the registered residents.”
– Furthermore, some of the fake addresses had already been detected in March, when the Local Police discovered another 187 irregular registrations in the municipality.
Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/campo-gibraltar-algeciras…
MIDDLE EAST
Israel intercepts five boats from the flotilla bound for Gaza, six Spaniards were on board: {Trans, summary}
– The Israeli Navy intercepted at least five boats on Monday from a new flotilla that intended to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, including two carrying six Spaniards, according to the organization Flotilla for Freedom, one of the sponsors of the initiative. Thus, from early Monday morning, several Israeli Navy fast patrol boats began boarding ships in international waters off the coast of Cyprus. According to the report, the interception occurred 250 nautical miles from the coast of Gaza.
– Later, the Freedom Flotilla clarified that they have confirmation that five vessels have been intercepted and suspect that the Israeli Navy has done the same with another five, although the Flotilla is trying to “re-establish contact to confirm this.”
– The Israeli government had warned the 57 vessels that make up this new humanitarian flotilla – which set sail for the Gaza Strip this Thursday from the Turkish port of Marmaris – to turn back immediately and that they would not tolerate “provocations” of this kind.
– Israeli forces detained 175 people in late April, traveling on some 20 boats bound for the Gaza Strip, in international waters off the coast of Greece. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/ejercito-israeli… & Video Link
WORLD
Health workers race to respond to Congo’s fast-spreading Ebola outbreak:
– Medical personnel were rushing on Monday to the frontlines of a new Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo whose late detection and quick spread have alarmed health experts. The World Health Organization on Sunday declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern because of the high risk the disease could spread further beyond DRC’s borders after two cases were confirmed in Kampala, the capital of neighbouring Uganda.
– The outbreak is suspected to have killed around 80 people in recent weeks, with eight cases confirmed by laboratory testing and 246 suspected cases reported in eastern DRC’s Ituri province. The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, which unlike the more common Zaire strain of Ebola, has no approved virus-specific therapeutics, or vaccine. An outbreak from 2018-2020 in North Kivu and Ituri provinces was the second deadliest on record, killing nearly 2,300 people. According to WHO, the average fatality rate from Ebola is around 50%, varying from 25% to 90% in past outbreaks. Full article: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/health-workers-race-respond-congos…
SPORTS
Golf News- Aaron Rai wins PGA Championship with help from wild putt for first major title in stunner:
– Aaron Rai couldn’t believe his eyes. For all intents and purposes, he already had the PGA Championship won. The 31-year-old Englishman with parents of Indian descent, who’s known as perhaps the nicest person on the PGA Tour, had already emerged from a crowded pack consisting of golf’s biggest stars to position himself as the latest PGA champion.
– The forever signature moment, though, came on the 17th green, where Rai rolled in a curling 68-foot birdie putt to get to 9 under par with a four-shot lead.
– Rai, who’s been known mostly for his habits of wearing two gloves and having covers for all of his irons, had one career PGA Tour win — the 2024 Wyndham Classic. In nine tournaments this year, he had only one top 10 finish — a fifth at last week’s Myrtle Beach Classic, an opposite-field event while the big boys played in the Truist Championship, the PGA Tour “signature’’ event at Quail Hollow. Rai won’t be playing in any opposite-field events for the foreseeable future.
He’s now one of the big boys, as this week changed his life. Full article: https://nypost.com/2026/05/17/sports/aaron-rai-wins-pga-championship-for-first-major-title-in-stunner/
HEALTH
Doctors may have found an easier way to treat prostate cancer- could become new ‘standard of care’:
– Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the US after skin cancer, and standard treatments, especially radiotherapy, often cause difficult side effects. A new study, however, suggests a simpler and equally effective alternative. Traditional radiotherapy is delivered in five sessions, but this approach can lead to rectal and bladder problems, delayed inflammation, and increased long‑term cancer risks. The HERMES study, presented at the ESTRO 2026 Congress, tested whether two larger radiation doses could work as well as five smaller ones.
– Researchers divided 46 patients into two groups: one received the standard five dose treatment over two weeks, while the other received two higher dose sessions over eight days. Both used MRI guided technology for precision. Results showed that the condensed two dose method was safe, feasible, and produced no additional side effects. About one in four patients experienced mild urinary symptoms, but no severe urinary or bowel issues occurred in either group, and quality of life measures remained stable after two years.
– Experts say the two dose method could make treatment more convenient, reduce hospital costs, and help modernize prostate cancer care as advanced MRI radiotherapy machines become more widely available. Full article: https://nypost.com/2026/05/17/health/doctors-may-have-found-an-easier-way-to-treat-prostate-cancer/
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Doctors begin their fourth nationwide strike of the year with no word from the Health Ministry– “If they don’t negotiate, there will be an indefinite strike after the summer.”: {Trans, summary}
– Doctors across the country resumed their strike on Monday in protest against the Ministry of Health ‘s Macro Statute agreement. The physicians are now in their fourth week of strikes this year, which will continue until Friday, May 22, without having made any progress toward an agreement with Minister Mónica García, who accuses them of hiding political interests behind their demands. Hopes of reaching an agreement in the short term have diminished considerably, especially compared to the first days of the strike in February, when there seemed to be a more fluid channel of communication between the two sides. The medical unions are maintaining their protests and are even threatening to extend them beyond the summer.
– The main demonstration is expected this Wednesday, May 20th, in front of the Ministry of Health, although many regional unions affiliated with the confederation have also opted to hold daily rallies at their workplaces this Monday. As has happened in previous calls, the participation figures are very disparate depending on whether they are given by the calling unions, who speak of 60 to 90% participation depending on the autonomous communities; and the regional ministries, which rarely report participation above 20% in any territory. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/los-medicos-arrancan-su-cuarta-huelga-ano-sin-noticias-sanidad-si-no-negocia-despues-verano-habra-un-paro-indefinido_6971690_0.html
RECALLS
Food alert for Listeria in fresh cheese from Sabor de Casa, GOYA and NATIVO brands: {Trans, summary}
– The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) has expanded its alert regarding the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in several batches of fresh cow’s milk cheese distributed throughout much of the country. The warning, which initially affected two specific batches, now extends to new product types and expiration dates following a precautionary recall initiated by the manufacturer.
– These products are being withdrawn from marketing channels since the start of the alert notification. People who have the product included in this alert at home are advised not to consume it.
– These are the recalled items:
* Queso Costeño by Nativo, 300g, exp 18/05/2026 & 04/07/2026
* Queso Costeño by Nativo, various weights, exp 23/05/2026 & 06/07/2026
* Queso Estilo llanero by GOYA, 300g, exp 18/05/2026 & 06/07/2026
* Queso Latino by GOYA, various weights, exp 24/05/2026 & 21/06/2026
* Queso Latino (Queso fresco de vaca) by Sabor de Casa, 300g, exp 10/05/2026 & 21/06/2026
* Queso Latino by Sabor de Casa, 250g & 325g, exp 19/05/2026 & 12/06/2026
Source, Spanish: https://www.aesan.gob.es/AECOSAN/web/seguridad_alimentaria/alertas_alimentarias/2026_38_Ampliacion_2.htm
OBITUARIES
Dennis Locorriere, Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show Singer and Guitarist, Dead at 76:
– Dennis Locorriere, founding member of the Seventies country rock band Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show, has died at the age of 76.
– Locorriere died Saturday following a “long and courageous battle with kidney disease,” the “Cover of the Rolling Stone” band said in a statement Sunday. Locorriere previously announced in November 2025 that he would retire from touring.
– Blending elements of country rock, blue-eyed soul and pop, they had a string of major hits throughout the ‘70s, including ‘Sylvia’s Mother’, ‘The Cover Of Rolling Stone’, ‘Sharing The Night Together’ and ‘When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Woman’. Full article: https://www.nme.com/news/music/dr-hook-frontman-dennis-locorriere-dies-aged-76-3945826 &
Video Link 1 & Video Link 2
OTHER
Anastasiia Pokreshchuk, the model with the “world’s biggest cheeks,” removes her padding: “The time has come”: {Trans, summary}
– Model Anastasiia Pokreshchuk rose to fame on Instagram in 2015 for her unusual goal. Far from wanting to have the same face as other models, she decided to become the woman with the biggest cheeks. Over the last decade, she has undergone all kinds of cosmetic procedures.
– However, as she shared on social media, it seems she’ll have to put her dreams on hold. At 37, the Ukrainian influencer wants to get rid of her cheeks. Her new goal is to remove all the filler she had injected for a facelift.
– “I’m going to have everything removed from my face because I’m getting a facelift. It’s impossible to do it with everything I have,” she lamented. ” I want to do it because that way I can mitigate the changes of age. I’m already 37 years old, that’s why. Although the removal will be gradual, little by little.” Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/gente/anastasiia…
SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES
*Click links to read the English language articles*
– Spain’s price of butane gas cylinder drops to 15.39 euros after six per cent decrease on Tuesday
https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/spains-price-butane-gas-cylinder-drops-1539-20260518110831-nt.html
– Malaga suspends C2 commuter rail service to Álora for two weeks from Friday
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/malaga-suspends-commuter-rail-service-alora-for-20260518112116-nt.html
– Fear after new wave of burglaries in occupied houses in rural areas of Vélez-Málaga {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/fear-after-assaults-20260515092549-nt.html
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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION
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Last updated May 18, 2026, 18:05 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
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Fact of the Day: Click Here
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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)
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How to check your town’s holiday calendar for 2026:
Visit this website, and click on your town to see your town’s 2026 holiday calendar
https://calendariolaboral.lavanguardia.com/andalucia/malaga/
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 Worldwide Newspaper Frontpages 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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