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. Top banner image: DigameXtra.
SUBMISSIONS INFO & RULES PAGE LINK
*Subscribe to receive free daily issues by email. To subscribe, please send me an email with the message “subscribe me to DigameXtra” from the email account you want subscribed.
*By making a submission you are indicating you have read and agree to follow the rules. RULES PAGE LINK: https://digamextra.com/about/
*Send your submissions & subscription requests to digamextra@protonmail.com
Note: The submission deadline is 6pm for the next day’s issue.
**********
DigameXtra Featured Sponsor
**********
ANNOUNCEMENTS
**********
Please share DigameXtra with your friends: Simply copy & paste this link into an email or message and send it to all your friends. https://digamextra.com/
Your contacts can read DigameXtra on the website without a subscription. They may also subscribe for free to receive daily issues by email. Please note, subscribers must be a “DigameXtra Donor” in the current year to make posts. Newly subscribed readers since Jan 1st, 2025 and Ayuntamiento sponsored events, are exempt from this requirement. Refer to the top of the submission rules page for more info regarding how to post submissions: https://digamextra.com/about/
**********
WHAT’S ON
Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!
***********
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~
September
– 2nd – Trip to Gib €22pp
– 6th – Artisan Market in the Alpujarras. Features a number of artisan product stalls, craft beers, lots of food trucks and live music. Price 22€pp
– 19th – Trip to Mini Hollywood, Almeria, price includes coach fare, entry and buffet lunch €65
October
– 7th – Trip to Gib €22pp
– 17th – Trip by train to El Chorro and then lunch at the Lakes. €25pp include train & coach fare but excludes lunch at the famous El Kiosko restaurant
November
– 4th – Trip to Gib €22pp
– 21st – A visit to an Olive Oil Plantation, Lunch at the WOK and IKEA/Plaza Mayor. €28 pp includes entry to the plantation with tasters, coach fare but excludes lunch.
– 28th – Black Friday shopping at La Canada. €20pp
For information call Gail on 951067723 / 626370695 (Whatsapp) email phoenixsocialclub@yahoo.co.uk
We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.
**********
Craft Market & Live Music: Torrox Pueblo Plaza
Saturday 30th August, 10 – 3pm. Live music at noon.
**********
55th Fiesta del Ajoblanco de Almáchar: Sat, 6 Sep.
Attendees will be able to taste this typical and characteristic dish of Almáchar, taste wines made with grapes and muscatel raisins from Alejandría and of course delight themselves with the flavour of the unbeatable raisins of Alejandría that the neighbours take care of and make year after year. It is the oldest festival in the province
This year the free shuttle bus will depart from the Torre del Mar bus station, with a stop in Vélez-Málaga.
**********
Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/
Tap or click image for updated forecast
**********
NOTICE!
Submissions for posting in sections below
must be signed like this or they will be returned !!!
Sender’s First Name / Nearest Town
**********
SERVICES WANTED / OFFERED
Check the DigameXtra Sponsor’s list whenever you need a service. By using these services you are helping support DigameXtra.
Landlords, tell your renters about DigameXtra, where they can get overnight answers to questions about local stuff without having to call you!
**********************
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.
**********
MANDY’S PAINTBOX
Mandy’s Paintbox: Painter for 30 years in Nerja area.
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.
***********
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.
**********
BLUCEE REAL ESTATE
BluCee Real Estate: Thinking of Selling Your Property in Málaga, the Axarquía or the Costa Tropical?
What if your home could be showcased to thousands of motivated UK buyers in just one weekend?
This September, BluCee Real Estate will be at A Place in the Sun Live in Birmingham (19–21 September), presenting our properties directly to buyers ready to invest in Spain.
Our very own Michelle Conner will be live on stage every day with Jasmine Harman and Laura Hamilton, sharing expert advice on buying in Spain.
Every property listed with BluCee will be promoted at the event.
Exclusive listings will also feature on our official exhibition background artwork — giving your property even greater visibility!
Spaces are limited — don’t miss this opportunity to stand out!
We are competitive on price, proactive, approachable and dedicated to first-class customer service.
Contact us today for a free valuation:
Email: info@blucee.com ; Web: http://www.blucee.com/
WhatsApp +34 711 04 27 27
Office +34 951 553 890
Or visit us at our Torre del Mar office:
Calle Timón 11b, 29738 Málaga.
BluCee Real Estate – Helping You Sell with Confidence
(Proud sponsors of DigameXtra – find our contact details here daily.)
**********
Great Deals From Upcycling Nerja
– Solid pine table & chairs natural wood (waxed) beige color on chairs protective glass top 152 x 92 x 76cms price 375€.
– Ducal Dresser natural wood waxed beige color new handles 133 x 44 x 190cm price 425€.
– Unusual wrought iron chair with decorative seat cushion measurements 29 x 26 x 98cms price 65€.
contact Jackie, nerja 672170429
upcycling nerja at gmail dot com
**********
EUROPCAR AUTO & VAN RENTALS
Europcar Auto & Van Rentals: Serving you with convenient locations in the airports and train stations of Malaga, Sevilla & Granada, plus one in Nerja Central. Competitive rates. Always an English speaking staff member on duty. Petrol, diesel, electric & hybrid models available. Premium brands, sub-compact city cars to luxury models, from €21/day (includes unlimited mileage & basic insurance): Ford, Audi, VW, Opel, MG, BMW, Renault & Fiat. Europcar sponsors DigameXtra, making a generous donation for every vehicle rental, but only if you reserve online using this link: [ EUROPCAR LINK ] You will need to setup an account the first time you use it. Bookmark this link, then always use this link to visit the website.
**********
RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS & COMMENTS
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.
***********
Removal of old washing machine: I am sure, some time in the past, there was someone who used to take away old broken white goods. We have a washing machine that is no longer working and it’s a heavy item to try to get into our car for removal. If anyone knows of someone who will take it away for free, I’d be very grateful.
Barbara/Torrox campo. Email: wicksey b at hotmail dot com
NEWS & ARTICLES
(Click the link to read the full article)
{ Translations by www.DeepL.com/Translator }
**********
SPAIN
In response to criticism, General Director of Civil Protection, Virginia Barcones, pushes back on claims of her weak response to wildfires with wordplay- excuses her slow response saying “no autonomous community has asked the government to decree the national emergency for fires”, then gets defensive: {Translation}
– The Director General of Civil Protection, Virginia Barcones, tried to divert responsibility by saying that the National Centre for Alerts and Emergencies has not received any request from any autonomous community to elevate any of the fires to operational situation three and, therefore, to the state of national emergency.
– She shared this on Saturday during a press conference in which she provided the latest information on the fires and avoided commenting on criticisms from leaders of the Popular Party, who accused her of “failing” in the fight against the fire.
– Barcones affirmed that she is focused on doing her work “until the fires are over” and, afterwards, on continuing to respond to natural disasters which are increasingly severe and frequent. “If I had to respond to all the matters that have been raised with me over these days, I would not be able to do anything else for many days. I am focused on my work,” she said during the press conference, where she also defended the work of her team. “They can say whatever they like. I will continue doing my work. The only thing I will keep saying is that I will not allow the work of those magnificent professionals to be called into question,” she added.
– The Civil Protection head has ruled out lowering the pre-emergency status for now because there are still three autonomous communities that require reinforcements. “We continue to have 13 active level-two forest fires in three autonomous communities and, therefore, we will continue this monitoring, with permanent 24-hour tracking of the progress of each of them,” she emphasised.
Source: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-barcones-afirma-ninguna-comunidad-autonoma-pedido-gobierno-decretar-emergencia-nacional-incendios-20250823134715.html
– {Editor’s Note: Barcones is disingenuous. Perhaps the exact words “decree the national emergency” were not used, but the criticism remains valid. The government had already activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism three days earlier, on August 12. On August 15, 2025, several autonomous communities governed by the People’s Party (PP)—Castilla y León, Galicia, and Extremadura—urgently requested the central government to deploy extraordinary resources, including the military, due to a severe wave of wildfires. Castilla y León, with over 51,000 hectares affected that day, requested 1,000 soldiers, heavy military machinery, and aerial support with military planes fitted for firefighting purposes. Galicia, facing major fires in Ourense, sought machinery, additional brigades, helicopters, and military support through the BRILAT (7th Airborne Light Infantry Brigade “Galicia” / Brigada de Infantería Ligera Aerotransportable Galicia VII). Extremadura, dealing with a historic fire in Jarilla, requested state and European resources, including 100 trucks, helicopters, and amphibious planes. These requests were made between 13:42 and 23:32 on August 15. Thus, requests for federal level emergency military response resources were certainly made. On August 17, 2025, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced an additional deployment of only 500 soldiers total, but, adding insult to injury, there would be a week delay in them arriving. -Ed.}
Ref: https://elpais.com/espana/2025-08-20/15-de-agosto-entre-las-1814-y-las-2252-asi-fue-la-solicitud-de-medios-de-las-comunidades-del-pp-al-gobierno-ante-la-oleada-de-incendios.html
**********
Judge Peinado Accelerates Prosecution of Begoña Gómez: {Translation, summary}
– The judicial case against Begoña Gómez, wife of Spain’s Prime Minister, involves five alleged offences across four active lines of investigation after 17 months of inquiry. Madrid judge Juan Carlos Peinado, who’s term received a one-year extension in January 2025 with retirement expected in January 2026, is accelerating the indictment process hoping to conclude before his retirement.
– The probe centres on allegations that Gómez used her official Moncloa adviser, Cristina Álvarez, paid with public funds, for private purposes related to Gómez’s work at Madrid’s Complutense University. They have both been formally charged with embezzlement of public funds, despite neither holding official public office, based on Penal Code provisions applicable due to Gómez’s leadership of a publicly funded academic chair. Judge Peinado’s legal argument is that, despite this lack of official public office, both women can be legally treated as public officials for criminal liability purposes. This interpretation is based on Gómez’s leadership of a publicly funded academic chair at Complutense University, and the nature of Álvarez’s work as an assistant on the public payroll. reportedly exceeding typical assistance roles, possibly involving misuse or diversion of public resources for private purposes.
– Other allegations include influence peddling, mismanagement of Complutense University programmes, misappropriation of software developed there, and issues surrounding Álvarez’s hiring in 2018. The Supreme Court rejected a request to investigate Félix Bolaños, the Minister of the Presidency, which was part of the wider inquiry.
– Gómez and her adviser are expected to testify in September. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/nacional/peinado-acelera-procesar-begona-gomez-tras-portazo-20250823184343-ntrc_amp.html
ANDALUCÍA
The SMA criticizes the €500million to the private hospitals to reduce surgical waiting lists while the public suffers “deficiencies” as staff recruitment efforts fail: {Translation, summary}
– Rafael Ojeda {pic}, president of the Andalusian Medical Union, criticised the Andalusian Government’s plan to invest 500 million euros in private healthcare for surgical operations, arguing that public funds should strengthen the public healthcare system, which faces severe staff and resource shortages.
– He highlighted deficiencies across primary care and hospital services, emphasising that summer staff reductions exacerbate pressures, particularly in coastal towns with population surges.
– Emergency services experienced significant overload, and recruitment efforts for new medical residents failed, leaving many positions vacant due to unappealing incentives. Ojeda warned that without a focused strategy to attract and retain doctors in public healthcare, staff shortages will worsen, creating unmanageable workloads during peak periods such as summer and Christmas. {No money for competitive incentives to attract new doctors, but half a billion for private, expensive, temporary fixes? What kind of ass-backwards logic is that? -Ed.}
– Despite government claims of a 14 per cent reduction in surgical waiting lists and assurances that summer closures would not worsen the situation, Ojeda maintains that waiting lists remain historically high. He urged decisive measures to improve working conditions, resources, and recruitment, stressing that public healthcare risks entering an irrecoverable crisis if these issues are not addressed.
Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/noticia-sma-critica-500-millones-privada-reducir-listas-quirurgicas-mientras-publica-sufre-carencias-20250824182309.html
MALAGA PROVINCE
Police avoid murder in Malaga with the arrest of six people related to a Swedish criminal organization: {Translation, summary}
– Spanish and Swedish police, in cooperation with Europol, prevented a planned murder in Málaga and arrested six people linked to a Swedish criminal group. Two suspects, including a minor, arrived from Gothenburg to allegedly carry out the attack. They were connected to a larger organisation involved in cocaine and marijuana trafficking, which supplied accommodation, weapons, and transport for the operation.
– Within 48 hours, authorities located the two suspected assassins on an electric scooter, wearing dark clothing, hoods, balaclavas, and masks. Searches of their Fuengirola and Málaga residences uncovered loaded firearms, concealment materials, 15 mobile phones, 16 SIM cards, cash, IT equipment, documents, and other items. The adult was remanded in custody, and the minor was placed in a juvenile centre.
– Investigations revealed the suspects advertised murder services online and handled logistics to ensure execution.
– Four additional members, including the alleged leader, were arrested. Charges include conspiracy to commit murder, illegal possession of firearms, and membership of a criminal organisation.
– {Note: The arrested, as can be seen in the pic, and in the video clip at the source article, do not appear to be your typical Swedes. There are missing pieces to this story. -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/policia-evita-asesinato-malaga-detencion_0_2004609671.html
FRIGILIANA
Donate Blood Today In Friggy: Monday, 5-9pm
**********
3 Cultures Festival of Frigiliana: 28-31 August
VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA
The mayor of Vélez unveils an “exciting” program for Noche en Vela (Night in Vélez): {Translation, summary}
– Vélez-Málaga prepares to celebrate the “Noche en Vela” on Saturday, 30 August 2025, extending from 8 pm until 4 am.
– The event will transform the Historic Centre into a cultural and artistic stage illuminated by 10,000 candles. Ten emblematic locations, including plazas, churches, gardens and museums, will host more than twenty concerts, tributes to Maná, Fito y los Fitipaldis and Mecano, flamenco, opera, and choral groups. Over fifty craft and gastronomy stalls, twenty food and drink stands, and interactive spaces for photography will enhance the festive spirit. The programme also features guided tours, theatre, a night chess tournament, and the special “Remembering Chanquete” event with actor Miguel Joven.
– A coordinated plan with security forces, 2,000 parking spaces, and shuttle buses will ensure safe, convenient participation. Described as a night of creativity, tradition and community, the Noche en Vela promises to be a landmark cultural occasion for residents and visitors alike. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-alcalde-veleno-jesus-lupianez-desvela-una-ilusionante-programacion-para-la-noche-en-vela/
**********
The Vélez Town Council & local group are promoting a series of conferences, theatre performances, and activities to mark the centenary of the historic landing at Alhucemas: {Translation, summary}
– The Town Council of Vélez-Málaga and the association “Los del 21” are organising a programme to mark the centenary of the Alhucemas landing of 1925, a decisive event that hastened the end of the War of Morocco. The commemorations will take place on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 September at the Contemporary Art Centre “Francisco Hernández”, featuring lectures, round tables, theatre, exhibitions and tributes.
– The programme will bring together military professionals, historians and experts in the African war. Highlights include the inaugural lecture by Fernando Caballero Echevarría, a performance by Benito Gallardo Sierra, and interventions by leading scholars such as Pedro Luis Pérez Frías and Francisco Moreno Lara. A central moment will be the remembrance of soldiers from the Axarquía who died in the Rif campaign.
– Saturday’s events will include further lectures, a tribute to the Royal Spanish Naval League, a round table, and a theatrical performance by Ceres Machado. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-ayuntamiento…
RINCÓN DE LA VICTORIA
The Rincón de la Victoria Town Council promotes the “Dress in White Against Forgetfulness” gala to benefit Asalbez: {Translation, summary}
– The Town Council of Rincón de la Victoria, through its Departments for the Elderly and for Social Welfare, is promoting the gala “Dress in White Against Forgetfulness” in aid of Asalbez, the Association of Carers and Alzheimer’s Patients of Bezmiliana. The event, linked to the International Day of Alzheimer’s, will be held on Friday 19 September at 8 p.m. at the Asalbez premises.
– Mayor Francisco Salado highlighted Asalbez’s role in caring for patients and raising awareness. Councillors Belén Gutiérrez and Nacho Cuadra underlined community solidarity and the importance of community collaboration.
– The gala donation is 20 euros per person, including cocktail-style dinner and live music, with proceeds directed to Asalbez projects. A raffle, supported by local businesses and neighbouring councils, will close the evening. Organised annually since 2018 with a chosen theme, this year’s request is for all attendees to dress in white, creating an Ibizan-style celebration. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-ayuntamiento-de-rincon-de-la-victoria-impulsa-la-gala-ponte-de-blanco-contra-el-olvido-a-beneficio-de-asalbez/
MURCIA
The curious rural accommodations where you can sleep in old train carriages from the 1950s: {Translation, summary}
– Vagón Rural Accommodation in the Region of Murcia offers a distinctive style of rural tourism: instead of a conventional house, the lodging consists of fully restored 1950s train carriages converted into cosy apartments. Set in the Murcian countryside, only ten minutes from the city centre and near the Monastery of Los Jerónimos, it provides both tranquillity and easy access.
– Each carriage is adapted as a small rural house, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable dining areas inside and outside, and a bathroom fitted with modern taps, thermostatic shower, and towels. Guests can enjoy a 200m² terrace with striking views, a shaded porch with pergola, barbecue, garden, and fruit trees, all within a private enclosed plot. Extra beds are available on request. By combining originality, comfort, and a natural setting, Vagón Rural transforms old railway carriages into unique rural houses, creating an ideal escape for families, couples, or friends seeking peace and novelty.
Facility website: http://vagonrural.es/vagonrural.html
Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/viajes/hoteles/curiosa-casa-rural-dormir-antiguos-vagones-tren-anos-50_6235149_0.html
UK
Only in England would an Englishman be refused entry into an English pub for displaying an English flag: X link
HEALTH
Patients overcrowded in chemo therapy at the Clinic of Malaga, while the new day hospital is still closed: {Translation, summary}
– The new area of the Clínico Hospital for administering chemotherapy, one of the most important projects since the hospital opened nearly four decades ago, with 4 million euros invested by the Health Ministry, is finished but unused since last January. Health delegate Carlos Bautista stated at the end of May that its opening was a matter of “a few days.” Yet almost three months have passed without a confirmed launch date.
– The Oncohaematology Day Hospital remains blocked because it lacks furniture. Although construction finished at the beginning of the year, the area still does not have chairs for patients, machines for administering chemotherapy, or computers for staff. According to the health administration, they did not wish to open with “old chairs.” Staff report that the tender for equipment has not even been issued.
– Due to limited space, some chairs cannot recline. Patients and relatives endure overcrowding in temporary facilities, often waiting in corridors. While care and attention are praised, there is no privacy, and patients spend hours in cramped conditions.
– Hospital staff themselves, including Juan Antonio Martos, president of the hospital staff board, complain that patients are crammed together while completed facilities remain closed. The new area could double chemotherapy capacity but also requires more staff. José Aldecoa, representing a cancer patient support foundation, also calls for its immediate opening. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/pacientes-quimio-clinico-malaga-hospital-dia-oncohematologico_0_2004612116.html
**********
Pure propaganda from the SAS: {Translation, summary of several articles}
– The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) claims in a press release this weekend to have formalized 99% of the 35,032 contracts planned for summer 2025, touting this as proof of its commitment to maintaining healthcare quality during peak demand. By its own figures, specialist doctors exceeded targets (119%), nursing reached 98%, and in some provinces hires even surpassed forecasts. On paper, this suggests a nearly flawless execution.
– But independent reports reveal a very different picture. The Medical Union of Seville states that only 20 doctors were actually hired across all Andalusia to cover the summer, compared with the 1,091 physician posts SAS claims to have filled. In Málaga, the situation is described as “chaotic,” with 56 fewer specialists than last year, the closure of beds, operating rooms, and consultations, and exhausted doctors facing up to 80 patients a day. Rural zones like the Serranía de Ronda also saw drastic cuts in nurse and physiotherapist coverage.
– It should be clarified that these percentages the SAS claim do not refer to the coverage of the workforce, but allude to the “planned recruitment”. The deception lies in SAS’s accounting: contracts are counted as “fulfilled” even when they are short-term, precarious, or in categories where demand is lower, even counting positions where the new hire has not yet reported for duty, masking the fact that critical doctor positions remain largely uncovered. In practice, patients and professionals face a deteriorating healthcare system, despite the self-congratulatory statistics. {And these are the unscrupulous con-artists we are supposed trust with our health? -Ed.}
Refs:
The lies:
https://www.malagahoy.es/andalucia/sas-asegura-formalizado-99-contratos_0_2004610416.html &
https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/sas-malaga-contratos-plan-verano_0_2004609941.html
The truth:
https://cadenaser.com/andalucia/2025/07/11/sindicato-medico-de-sevilla-en-toda-andalucia-se-han-contratado-para-las-vacaciones-a-tan-solo-20-medicos-radio-sevilla/ &
https://www.diariodesevilla.es/andalucia/sas-rechaza-criticas-colapso-zonas_0_2004600912.html &
https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/sevilla/psoe-exige-moreno-que-ponga-trabajar-corregir-critica-situacion-sanidad-zonas-costeras/202508241017302200726.html
SPANISH ROYALS
Reveille at 6:30 a.m., classes until 6 p.m., and flight simulators- this is how Princess Leonor will train to become a military pilot: {Translation}
– Princess Leonor will join the General Air Academy in San Javier, Murcia, on the 1st of September, attending as an ordinary pupil, thereby subject to strict rules of conduct and a substantial academic load which will include simulator instruction hours before she may pilot the Pilatus training aircraft alongside an instructor.
– The day begins at 6.30 with reveille, and classes start at 7.40 following breakfast. Morning sessions continue until 15.00, with a brief mid-morning break, resuming at 16.00 until 18.00. After that, pupils may walk or study until 22.15. Dinner is at 20.30 and lights out is at 22.30. Military-style schedules are familiar to the Princess, who has previously trained at the General Army Academy in Zaragoza and the Naval Military School in Marín. She joins San Javier as a fourth-year pupil, having already achieved the rank of ensign.
– There is no fixed timeline for solo flight. The principal challenge this year will be her pilot training. Colonel Luis González Asenjo, director of the academy, has not set a date for her first flight with an instructor in the Pilatus PC-21, nor for solo flight. Initial training involves theoretical lessons followed by hours in a CBT (Computer Based Training) simulator with three screens for familiarisation.
– Advanced instruction continues in the FTD (Full Flight Training Device) simulator, replicating the Pilatus cockpit with a 180-degree view. Pupils train with all onboard equipment prior to actual flights. New training aircraft have replaced the C-101s used for forty years. The high-fidelity simulator improves confidence during first flights with instructors, typically lasting one to one and a half hours, including emergency scenarios to hone decision-making.
– Early flights focus on familiarisation and confidence. Subsequently, pupils learn all instrument systems, and eventually conduct formation flights and manoeuvres with other aircraft under instructor supervision. Solo flight, or ‘release’, occurs when the instructor deems the pupil ready, though no timeline is given for Princess Leonor.
– The Air Force emphasises that flying is demanding; some pupils have completed training but could not fly.
– Princess Leonor follows her father and grandfather in military instruction. Felipe VI piloted an Eurofighter, while Juan Carlos I flew the A400M. She must consider crucial factors, including carrying seven kilos of flight gear and staying well-fed and hydrated. Signs in simulator buildings instruct pupils on hydration: an 80-kilo pilot should drink over a litre of water two hours before flight, 560–800 millilitres in the air, and 4.5 litres in the six hours post-landing, accounting for an expected three-kilo weight loss.
– From the 1st of September, she will be ‘an ordinary pupil’, as confirmed during a visit by Defence Minister Margarita Robles. She will share a dormitory with three female classmates. Rooms generally lack bathrooms; shared facilities are at the end of the corridor, including toilets, showers, sinks, and a changing area. Each pupil has a bed, wardrobe, desk with drawers, and a small shelf. Pupils are provided with the uniform, but must supply underwear and sports shoes. Recommended items include sunscreen, insect repellent, a headtorch with red light, basic sewing and first aid kits, among others. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-toque-diana-630-clases-18-simuladores-asi-formara-princesa-leonor-piloto-militar-20250824122950.html
SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES
*Click links to read the English language articles*
– More than 13,000 electric vehicle charging points in Spain are not working
https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/there-are-13072-charging-points-installed-spain-20250822063058-nt.html
– More than 100 suspected arsonists face justice after wave of summer wildfires in Spain- Some are the result of the 14-day heatwave or lightning strikes, but most are caused by people
https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/summer-fire-wave-brings-110-suspected-arsonists-20250818075625-nt.html
– Seven pubs and supermarket hit by major early-morning blaze in Costa del Sol resort {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/benalmadena-torremolinos/seven-pubs-and-supermarket-hit-major-earlymorning-20250824135837-nt.html
– Two young hitmen, one Swedish, arrested as they were about to commit murder in Malaga
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/malaga-city/young-hitmen-arrested-they-were-about-commit-20250822182356-nt.html
– Aemet reveals what temperatures are expected in south of Spain until the end of August
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/aemet-warns-what-temperatures-are-expected-south-20250823104721-nt.html
**********
HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION
Free Comic Strips provided by https://www.arcamax.com/comics
*********
**********
EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com
Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies
Last updated Aug 24, 2025, 21:43 UTC
**********
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
2025 Holiday Calendars by town, click/tap to view:
Algarrobo
Competa
Malaga
Nerja
Rincon
Torrox
Velez-Málaga
For other towns in Malaga Province, visit this website, click your town, then look for the post named “Calendario Laboral de ‘Your Town‘ 2025 “, click that to see calendar.
https://www.foro-ciudad.com/malaga.html
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
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/web/bus/our-destinations/regional
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://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/
**********
By supporting our sponsors you help support DigameXtra!
DigameXtra Sponsors
Get Windscribe Pro or Free Versions Here
Home Page – Based in Torrox Costa, near the bus station.
************
How to Subscribe and make submissions: Click Link
DigameXtra cannot be responsible for incorrect info in reader or sponsor posts or event announcements. Always confirm the details to avoid disappointment.
ATTENTION! New EU internet privacy laws are now in effect, known as the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). I have to inform you that the DigameXtra archive saves follower’s email addresses in the WordPress server. By subscribing/following you implicitly accept this; if you make submissions you acknowledge that anyone can view old issues online and see your contact info as you provided and you accept this. If you don’t want me saving your email address do not subscribe/follow, you can unsubscribe and remove yourself from this list using the unsubscribe link at the bottom of every subscription issue. Takedown notices must include proof of ownership as well as the date and issue number of the DigameXtra issue containing the infringing content. These may be submitted to digamextra@protonmail.com. Proper takedown notices will be complied with immediately. All images have been credited or copied from what I believe to be copyright free sources.
©DigameXtra.com 2015-2025. All rights reserved. Written permission is required to republish any DigameXtra.com content. Sharing content for personal use is permissible as long as it is source credited to https://digamextra.com.
DigameXtra 
You must be logged in to post a comment.