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: LucasAlbuquerque/Unsplash
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
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Sincere thanks to all the Holiday Fundraiser donors! Donations continue to be accepted, info here: https://digamextra.com/donation-information/
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Next Public Holiday: Día de Andalucía
In 2026, Andalucia Regional Holiday falls on Saturday, 28 February.
When an Andalucia Regional Holiday falls on a weekend, many businesses and people will observe the previous Friday, or the following Monday, as a day off in order to create a three-day weekend. Ref: https://publicholidays.es/andalusia-regional-holiday/
DigameXtra Will Be Closed Friday, 27 Feb, 2026
Items scheduled for posting in the Friday, 27 Feb. Weekend Edition, will appear one day early, Thursday, 26 Feb.
Time your submissions appropriately.
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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
March
– 3rd – Trip to Los Boliches Market, Fuengirola. €20pp
– 19th – Table Top Sale – Call if you have something to sell
– 27th – Trip to IKEA/Plaza Mayor & Guzmans Garden Centre €20pp. If you prefer to stay at IKEA or Plaza Mayor, we will pick you up on the way home
April
– 7th – Easter trip to Gibraltar, €20pp
– 26th/29th April – Mini break to Cadiz. Staying in the 4* Senator Spa Hotel (this hotel could change if we get a better deal) 3 nights, 4 days. Price includes ½ board Accommodation, wine with meals, drivers tip and 2 trips to Medina Sidonia and Jerez. €415 pp based on 2 sharing a double room. Single Occupancy €585. Deposit €150 pp non refundable unless the club cancels the trip. Travel Insurance required. 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.
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Frigiliana celebrates with its Carnival parade:
Saturday, February 21 with the Grand Parade through the streets of the town.
Parade and costume contest info, in Spanish: https://frigiliana.es/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Anuncio-bases-Carnaval-2026.pdf
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Carnival 2026 in Cómpeta: Sat, 21 Feb
The program will begin with a parade at 5pm from Plaza Almijara. Info: https://turismocompeta.com/es/agenda/eventodetalle/246/-/carnaval-2026
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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/
Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details
Warning Note: Possible high winds & waves until 11:59pm Monday.
Latest 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.
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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 – Your Property Experts in Southern Spain:
Why stay local when you can go…to Texas!
BluCee Real Estate
International buyers, local expertise.
We’re excited to announce that on 28th-29th March 2026, we’ll be in Texas, introducing local properties to a brand-new audience of American buyers.
Local homes. Global marketing.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk. Contact us before 20th March 2026 and we’ll saddle up and promote your property in Texas.
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
BluCee Real Estate – Helping You Sell with Confidence
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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For Sale, 2 items: From a smoke free home
– IKEA Hemnes bookcase. White stain and light brown wood. Approx measurements H197cm x W90cm x D37cm. Five shelves, four are adjustable and one fixed.
Excellent condition. 80€
– ‘Ria’ elegant 2 seater sofa in grey velour fabric. Approx measurements W150cm x D84cm x H78cm. As new (literally never been sat on!). Bought from Piramides in Caleta and is still available on their website with further photos and original price paid for it etc. Absolute bargain at 220€
Buyer collects both items.
Jane, Puente Don Manuel
jane.williams70@yahoo.co.uk
Whatsapp preferred 0044 7563 414014
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These 2 laptops are great deals as laptop prices skyrocket. I bought on pre-Christmas “flash sales” and pass the savings on to you. Only 3 remain in stock. Discounts of €100 & €220 off current prices !!!
For Sale: Brand New Powerful Business Grade Laptop
HP 15-FD0079NS
Special features for seniors: Large characters on keys + extra large touchpad.
15.6″ premium FHD Intel iRISxe display, 250 NIT.
Windows 11 Pro installed in English; Keyboard is Spanish.
1000Gb SSD M.2 hard drive, lots of room for large media collections.
16Gb ram, extra fast at 3200MHz.
Intel i5-1334U processor, 10 cores/12 threads, up to 4.6GHz!
Wifi 6, USB 3.2 x 2; USB-C x 1; HDMI; Dual speakers.
Battery, 7hrs, with fast-charge. Weight 1.59kg, 18.6mm thick. Factory warranty upon registration.
Price €450 cash. (€670 on Amazon.es, without Windows!), https://www.amazon.es/-/en/HP-Laptop-i5-1334U-Graphics-Operating/dp/B0D1YGX2NC/ Only one left in stock. DoctorLaptop, Torrox Costa
Email: doctorlaptop@protonmail.com
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For Sale: Brand New Powerful Laptop- Acer Aspire Go 15 AG15
Windows 11 Pro. System, UK English. Keyboard, Spanish.
15.6″ Full HD IPS LCD (1920 x 1080) display with Acer BluelightShield to reduce blue light exposure.
512Gb SSD MVMe; 16 Gb RAM
AMD Ryzen 5 5625U (up to 4.3GHz), 6 core, 12 threads
3x USB 3.2; 1x USB-C; Wifi 6; HDMI 2.1; Bluetooth 5.1; Ethernet
Weight: 1.8kg. Mfg. date: 15Mar25 (Win 12 ready). Factory warranty upon registration.
Ref: https://store.acer.com/en-gb/acer-aspire-go-15-laptop-ag15-42p-silver
Price: €420 cash (£549.99 on Acer UK website, ) a great price for a solid, mid-line laptop! Only 2 left! 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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Volunteers needed by Michelle R., Ph.D., for psychology study:
– See all the details by clicking the document image below.
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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
A judge rejects the PSOE’s complaint against HazteOir for the tarpaulins and trucks in which it calls Sánchez “corrupt”: {Translation, summary}
– Madrid’s Investigating Court No. 12 has dismissed the probe into a large HazteOir banner near Congress on 19 May 2025, labelling Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez “corrupt.” Judge María Dolores Baeza ruled it protected political criticism, not inciting violence or hate, citing broader free speech limits for public figures per Constitutional Court and ECtHR precedents. Thus the PSOE’s injurias complaint failed (defamatory injury via public means).
– After the socialist’s denunciation, the banner was removed on the same day of its installation by order of another court, which held that it was a movement “clearly injurious” to the president’s “reputation.” Because there were no operatives from the installing company at that moment, the removal was carried out by the Madrid City Council Fire Brigade.
– HazteOir then persisted with bridge banners, a circulating truck, and they also used a projector to display onto the facade of Spain’s Congress of Deputies (near Madrid) the phrase “Sánchez Corrupto” (Sánchez Corrupt), images of which were widely shared online. This aligns with their tactics in cases like Begoña Gómez’s, using mafia-themed imagery.
– The judge affirmed such scrutiny is inherent to political office. It is based on the jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which has determined that the “permissible limits of criticism are wider” when they are directed at people who hold public office, such as the President of the Government, compared to private individuals. Criticism, according to the judge, is “inseparable from any political office,” since those who hold them are more exposed to public scrutiny. Source, Spanish: https://www.eldiario.es/politica/jueza-rechaza-denuncia-psoe-hazteoir-lonas-camiones-llama-corrupto-sanchez_1_12989847.html
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Socialist Progressive Judges Oppose the Toughening of Sentences for Multiple Recidivists: {Translation, summary}
– Judges for Democracy (JJpD) expressed profound concern Saturday over Congress’s Thursday approval of tougher penalties for repeat minor theft and fraud under 400 euros. The JJpD claims this Junts-led reform, backed by PSOE, PP, Vox, PNV, and UPN, retreats from proportionality and rehabilitation principles, proving unnecessary with no real deterrent effect {despite contradictory evidence, see last 2 paragraphs}.
– Post-2022 data after stiffening rules for repeat thefts over 400 euros shows thefts rose over 20 per cent. Escalating jail to three years for minor acts breaches penal balance, burdens courts with complex trivial cases, delaying important trials, says the JJpD.
– JJpD demands more resources for swift recidivism detection, verification, and prosecution over mere punishment hikes. Punitive populism– longer jail terms to win votes by exploiting public fears of crime, crushes vulnerable groups, prioritising police control over prevention, criminalising poverty. Authorities must embrace restorative justice upholding constitutional safeguards instead.
– Spain holds Europe’s highest incarceration rates yet lowest crime figures. {So according to their own crime figures detention obviously does work to lower crime. Yet progressive judges want more repeat criminals on the streets? Please tell me who is handing out law degrees to people without an ounce of logic in their skulls. -Ed.}. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-jueces-democracia-ve-innecesario-efecto-disuasorio-real-endurecimiento-penas-multirreincidentes-20260214112321.html
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The PP launches a parliamentary offensive with 30 measures and the censure of Isabel Rodríguez for her “catastrophe” in Housing: {Translation, summary}
– The Popular Party launched a parliamentary offensive against the Government’s housing policies, seeking censure of Minister Isabel Rodríguez for her catastrophic management, ideological bias, and protection of squatters over citizens.
– It presented over 30 measures to tackle Spain’s housing emergency, where a 22-year-old needs 11 years’ salary for a modest home and young workers spend 92% of income on rent. Squatting complaints surged 34.5% from 2018-2024, affecting 78,800 homes with 230,000 squatters.
– PP blames Sánchez’s failed policies for elevating housing from 18th to top public concern per CIS data. Its plan demands construction of one million new homes through public-private partnerships, mobilisation of public land for affordable rentals, VAT reduction from 10% to 4% on first homes, income tax rebates for young workers’ first four years, tougher anti-squatting laws with 24-hour evictions, and enhanced legal protections for owners and tenants. VP Carmen Fúnez prioritised security for owners, tenants, and youth over squatters. Senate debate scheduled for 17-18 February. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-pp-lanza-ofensiva-parlamentaria-30-medidas-reprobacion-isabel-rodriguez-catastrofe-vivienda-20260214122009.html
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Eggs, coffee, vegetables and tropical fruits have risen by double digits in the last year: {Translation, summary}
– In the year to January 2026, Spanish food prices rose most sharply for eggs, up 30.7 per cent, followed by coffee at 13.1 per cent, fruit/vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers at 12.6 per cent, and tropical fruits at 11.8 per cent. Significant annual increases also affected chocolate, nuts, offal, and various fresh produce. Conversely, prices fell for vegetable oils, including a 24.1 per cent drop for olive oil, alongside sugar, potatoes, and pasta.
– Monthly data for January showed sharp rises in fruit/vegetables at 10.3 per cent and green legumes at 8.7 per cent. Methodological updates to the CPI basket now include modern items like avocados and blueberries, replacing outdated ones such as ties and handkerchiefs, while incorporating advanced data collection techniques for greater accuracy. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/economia/macroeconomia-00338/noticia-huevos-cafe-hortalizas-frutas-tropicales-encarecen-doble-digito-ultimo-ano-20260215112241.html
AXARQUÍA
The wind storm has closed several roads in the Axarquía and the rest of the province: {Translation}
– The Axarquia, along with the Serrania de Ronda and the capital, are the areas most affected by rockfalls that have forced the Andalusian Regional Government and the Malaga Provincial Council to close a dozen roads to traffic.
– In the Axarquia region, the situation is particularly complicated on the A-7207 road, which connects Competa with Torrox {UPDATE: Now Re-opened}, and which had to be closed this Saturday due to a rockfall onto the carriageway. Likewise, the A-7206 passing through Sayalonga is also closed to traffic. Another affected road in the area is the MA-3102, in the municipal district of Colmenar, under provincial jurisdiction.
*Road closures across the rest of the province*
– The Malaga road network totals 12 roads closed and two with restrictions on heavy traffic. In the Guadalteba area and Serrania de Ronda, the incidents affect the MA-8401 (Benaojan to Cortes), the MA-8406, the MA-8302 in Genalguacil, the MA-7402 in Acinipo, and the A-2300 in Montecorto. Meanwhile, in the Casares area, the A-7150 remains closed.
– In the north of the province, the closures are located on the A-7202 in Archidona, the MA-6406 in Almargen, and the MA-6101 in Villanueva de Algaidas. In addition, the DGT has confirmed incidents on the N-331 passing through Antequera. Regarding restrictions, heavy vehicles are prohibited on the MA-7300 (Igualeja to Pujerra) and on the MA-8306 in Benalauria.
– The authorities recommend exercising extreme caution while driving and avoiding unnecessary journeys through rural areas while the strong gusts of wind continue to cause instability on the slopes of mountain roads. Source, Spanish:
https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-temporal-de-viento-mantiene-cortadas-varias-carreteras-en-la-axarquia-y-el-resto-de-la-provincia/
NERJA
Nerja Council Unanimously Rejects Maro Golf Course and Housing Plans: {Translation, summary}
– Nerja Town Council’s Pleno unanimously adopted two rejection agreements on a proposed golf course in Maro Vega by Sociedad Azucarera Larios Inmobiliaria SL. Specifically, they ruled inadmissible the request to initiate proceedings for the golf course itself and denied initial approval for the required PGOU modification to allow associated housing and hotels.
– In Spanish administrative terms, “adopting agreements” means formally passing resolutions– even ones that reject proposals outright. Councillor Alberto Tomé cited a report from Andalusia’s Legal Services, requiring processing under the current LISTA law (not the repealed LOUA, as developers wanted). Municipal experts had previously flagged this. Tomé emphasised compliance with technical and legal reports from competent bodies to ensure procedural security and sound territorial planning in Nerja. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-pleno-del-ayuntamiento-de-nerja-inadmite-a-tramite-el-proyecto-de-campo-de-golf-en-maro-y-deniega-la-aprobacion-de-la-modificacion-del-pgou-para-su-desarrollo/
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The search for Iain Stanley, a 79-year-old British citizen who disappeared in Nerja, is activated: {Translation, summary}
– The Civil Guard continues an urgent search for 79-year-old British national Iain Stanley, missing in Nerja since 14:00 on Wednesday, 11 February—last spotted near Perla Marina hotel. He departed his home on central Avenida Antonio Ferrandis ‘Chanquete’ without his mobile phone or passport, prompting his wife to file a missing person report the next day, Thursday. Notably, he has no known conditions impairing mobility, adding to the mystery; he wore black jeans, a shirt, and blue jacket.
A taxi driver’s claim of driving him to Torrox on Friday at 13:30 remains unverified after site checks yielded no evidence. Investigators scour Nerja CCTV footage and witness accounts to trace his path, with no breakthroughs yet. The local British expat community circulates his photo via social media and groups. Security forces request tips via 062 or nearest station amid growing concern in the coastal town. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/sucesos/buscan-iain-stanley-britanico-anos-desaparecido-nerja-20260214110738-nt_amp.html
FRIGILIANA
Endesa invests nearly 500,000 euros in strengthening the electricity supply of Frigiliana: {Translation, summary}
– A team of specialized technicians from the electricity company has installed more than two kilometres of new medium-voltage cabling, which has made it possible to establish a dual power supply in the town, i.e., two alternative supply routes. This configuration guarantees continuity of service, since, in the event of a temporary incident on one of the lines, the other will automatically come into operation, avoiding interruptions in the electricity supply.
– In addition to this action, remote control equipment has been installed, allowing remote action to be taken in the event of any need, reducing response times in the event of incidents. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/endesa-invierte-cerca-de-500-000-euros-en-reforzar-el-suministro-electrico-de-frigiliana/
CÓMPETA
The road between Cómpeta and Torrox reopened after completing the cleaning work: {Translation, summary}
– The A-7207 road, which connects the municipalities of Cómpeta and Torrox, has been reopened to traffic after the conservation teams have managed to completely clear the roadway in less than 24 hours.
– The work has focused on the removal of the large rock that prevented the passage of vehicles after the landslide recorded the previous day. In addition, the workers have also removed a huge detached tree that blocked the road, thus guaranteeing the safety of the route before allowing circulation again. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/reabierta-carretera-competa-torrox-trabajos-limpieza-tras-caer-roca/
EUROPE
United States Secretary of State Rubio urges Europe to join Trump’s nationalist vision and calls for a new Western alliance based on “culture, heritage, and Christian values”: {Translation, summary}
– In his address to the Munich Security Conference, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged European powers to embrace the nationalist worldview promoted by President Donald Trump and to abandon what he labelled the “deception” of liberal democracies and the rules-based international order. Rubio traced this supposed decline to the end of the Cold War, when, he argued, the West adopted “a dogmatic vision of free and unrestricted trade” and a “climate cult” that led to “the impoverishment of society.” He warned that pursuit of “a world without borders” had unleashed mass migration, endangering social cohesion and cultural continuity.
– While emphasising that “we want Europe to be strong,” Rubio called for a sweeping reform of global institutions, beginning with the United Nations, which he said has “no answers and at present plays practically no role.” He insisted that nations must prioritise their own “vital interests” over any “so-called global order.”
– Echoing but tempering the previous year’s hard-line remarks by Vice President JD Vance, Rubio framed his vision around “national culture,” “Christian values,” and the defence of Western civilisation. Declaring that “we are the children of Europe,” he recalled Europe’s central role in shaping the United States and cited Spain as the birthplace “of the romance” with the cowboy ideal. He called for allies proud of their heritage and ready to defend a shared civilisation, concluding that only by strengthening this common identity could the West reclaim its place in the world and confront “the forces of destruction.” Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/internacional/noticia-rubio-tiende-mano-europa-nueva-realidad-amparo-nacionalismo-abanderado-donald-trump-20260214093553.html
…Meanwhile, Von der Leyen Embraces European Union Isolationism just minutes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio proclaimed to the same attendees the end of the “deception” of liberal democracies and proposed to Europe a new model of relations under the aegis of the nationalism of US President Donald Trump…
Von der Leyen proclaims that the European Union “no longer has any choice” but to foster its group independence in a “fractured world”: {Translation, summary}
– European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared at the Munich Security Conference that current reality has imposed on the European Union the decision to foster its group independence against internal and external threats, because “it no longer has any choice” in a “fractured and hostile world”. Speaking minutes after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s call to abandon liberal democracies, she demanded self-sufficiency for the European Union “in all dimensions affecting our security and prosperity: defence and energy, economy and trade, raw materials and digital technology”.
– “Some might say that the word ‘independence’ contradicts our transatlantic bond. But the truth is the opposite. An independent Europe is a strong Europe. And a strong Europe strengthens the transatlantic alliance,” she assured. Citing Ukraine as “shock therapy” with defence spending up 80 per cent in 2025 versus pre-2022, von der Leyen urged implementing “the European mutual defence clause” from Article 42, as “no taboo can remain unanswered”.
– This would form the backbone of a new Security Strategy using “all our political tools: trade, finance, standards, data, critical infrastructures, technological platforms, and information”. “In Europe we must be prepared and willing to use our strength assertively and proactively to protect our security interests,” she concluded, defining independence as defending territory, economy, democracy, and way of life.
– {Funny how these independence defining items mentioned by Von der Leyen are actually constantly under threat from this Agenda 2030 pushing hypocrite:
* Defending territory? She supports mass migration, of mainly military aged men.
* Economy? She is wrecking that with failed Globalist programs, unpopular green programs, Ukraine handouts (€100 billion since 2022) & health-related financial disasters.
* Democracy? She supports unelected officials making decisions for the public.
* Way of life? She wants us in 15-Minute cities, without private vehicles, requiring both a digital-ID to leave those cities and digital wallets to replace cash. She expects Europeans to change their culture to be more migrant friendly, for us to reject our customs that may offend new arrivals. Are you ready to give up your dogs and your alcohol just to please your uninvited guests? You ladies ready to wear burkas & hijabs whenever you go out in public to avoid infringing on the sensibilities of newcomers? How does all that protect your way of life? -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/internacional/noticia-von-der-leyen-proclama-europa-ya-no-tiene-mas-eleccion-fomentar-independencia-mundo-fracturado-20260214110132.html
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We don’t need no stinkin’ consensus! – Lagarde says Trump’s “kick in the ass” to Europe has brought European leaders closer together, “That must continue”: {Translation, summary}
– Christine Lagarde, ECB President, hailed Donald Trump’s hostile stance towards Europe as a “kick in the ass” that has tightly united European leaders, urging this solidarity to endure. Quoting founders Jean Monnet and Robert Schuman, she affirmed Europe forges ahead and coalesces in crises. She endorsed multi-speed integration, allowing willing nations to advance sans full consensus, exemplified by 24 of 27 states approving a 90 billion euro Ukraine aid loan despite three opt-outs. Unanimity remains ideal, but its absence need not paralyse progress, provided leaders and publics accept differentiated paces.
– Estonian PM Kristen Michal disagreed, warning of proliferating “onion layers” of varying speeds in defence, technology, and finance, insisting unity in diversity fortifies Europe most. Lagarde’s vision prioritises pragmatic momentum; Michal champions cohesion. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/lagarde-asegura-que-patada-culo-trump-europa-ha-unido-mas-los-lideres-europeos-eso-debe-continuar_6934414_0.html
GASTRONOMIA
The ‘hidden’ restaurant in Estepona, 200m from a fish market, has the freshest fish and the best fried dishes; with its own Repsol Solete award: {Translation, summary}
– La Escollera stands as a bastion of Malaga’s premier seafood, offering the province’s freshest fish and peerless fried fish from its unassuming nook at number 10, Puerto Pesquero, Estepona’s vibrant fishing port, less than 200 metres from the Estepona fish market. This 86-year family mainstay secures daily dawn hauls of pristine catch, ensuring unrivalled quality in every dish.
– Honoured with Repsol Guide Solete and the 2024 Academia Gastronómica de Malaga’s People’s Prize for Best Malagueñan Fried Fish, it beckons with a fishmonger’s vitrine where patrons handpick their bounty for masterful preparation. Sizzling pescaíto frito reigns supreme, alongside grilled fish, mariscos, and tapas echoing grandmother’s 1940 home-cooked legacy. Repsol lauds it for capturing “true Malagueñan fish essence.”
– Portions are generous, averaging a mere 12 euros, delivering hearty value without compromise. Expect relentless queues for this hidden jewel.
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 11.00 to 16.30 and 20.00 to 23.00; Sunday, 11.00 to 16.30. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/malaga/2026/02/13/restaurante-malaga-oculto-pasos-lonja-pescaito-fresco-mejor-fritura-solete-respol-escollera-puerto-estepona-dv-126800554.html & Video Link
HEALTH
On Monday, the SAS sets the minimum services to be provided for a monthly series of week-long strikes by more than 30,000 doctors: {Translation, summary}
– The Andalusian Health Service will launch from Monday until February 20 a minimum service scheme necessary to manage a series of week-long medical strikes planned for coming months. The measure is framed in a schedule of strikes that the medical unions, including the Andalusian Medical Union (SMA), plan to repeat on a regular basis.
– According to the official planning, the minimum services set for this first week will be replicated in new monthly calls until June. The Board maintains that the plan seeks to sustain essential care activity during the days of protest. The weeks involved are: from 16 to 20 February; from 16 to 20 March; from 27 to 30 April; from 18 to 22 May; and from 15 to 19 June.
– Specifically, “in emergencies, critical care and deliveries, the care activity of a Sunday or holiday will be guaranteed.” The guideline aims to ensure continuity of care in processes that do not allow delay, even with reduced scheduled activity.
The document adds that the services “will guarantee 100% of the diagnostic tests and urgent activities that are carried out on a Sunday or public holiday.” This point places the focus on explorations and actions whose delay may compromise the clinical prognosis. In addition, specific procedures considered priority are included: ovarian punctures for obtaining oocytes, hemodynamics, dialysis, radiation therapies, chemotherapies and oncological surgery. It is also contemplated, “in general, care and support activities that guarantee continuity of care in this type of patients.”
– For hospitalizations, the order introduces a coverage criterion linked to severity. It is indicated that “treatment must be guaranteed to patients who, due to their morbidity, require immediate assistance, not exceeding 50% of personnel of a working day in the day from 8.00 to 15.00 hours.” {That doesn’t sound particularly encouraging now does it? -Ed.}
– It has also detailed that the strike from 9 to 12 December 2025 resulted in the suspension of 212,471 consultations in Primary Care; 4,044 affected surgical interventions; 18,181 diagnostic tests and 95,773 hospital outpatient consultations. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/andalucia/sas-activa-lunes-servicios-minimos-semana-huelga-que-estan-convocados-mas-30000-medicos/202602151040273213845.html
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Medical worker hiring scandal– The PP demands an audit on the MIR exams and asks the Government to be responsible for the “chaos caused”: {Translation, summary}
– The Popular Party has submitted a non-legislative proposal in the Congress of Deputies urging the Government to order an immediate, external and independent audit of the 2025/2026 Specialised Health Training process, which includes the MIR exams. The initiative responds to widespread complaints from candidates and the MIR Spain Association about irregularities that, according to the PP, have damaged transparency and trust in the system.
– The party lists multiple incidents: delays in official timetables, flaws in exam materials, leaks of confidential information, errors in grading, and the mass resignation of the expert committee appointed to design the tests. It calls for the complete publication of audit results, the assumption of political responsibility by Sánchez’s Government, and the adoption of reforms through dialogue with healthcare professionals.
– The PP further highlights a severe shortage of doctors, noting that more than 4,500 Primary Care positions remain vacant. At the same time, the Government has only expanded the number of MIR training places (the mandatory residency programme for doctors to specialise) by 36 posts in Primary Care for the 2025/2026 session. In practice, that increase is negligible compared with the thousands of vacancies. It concludes that Spain’s public healthcare system is now “frozen”, with record levels of protest and strike action. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-pp-exige-auditoria-examenes-mir-pide-responsabilidades-gobierno-caos-provocado-20260214094350.html
SPORTS
Olympics News- Controversy at the Winter Olympics over lack of condoms and prostitutes, “They promised us more, but…”: {Translation, summary}
– The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics have ignited talk of condom scarcity, with athletes lamenting the rapid depletion of 10,000 units in just 72 hours despite assurances of replenishment. A record spike in sexual service demands accompanies the scandal.
– This continues a tradition begun at the 1988 Seoul Games, where Olympic villages first provided condoms to promote safe sex and STI prevention among athletes and young people. For comparison, Paris 2024 distributed over 300,000 prophylactics, averaging two per athlete daily, highlighting the current Games’ stark shortfall.
– Meanwhile, SimpleMedia analysis of SimpliEscort data uncovers a surge in escort services being offered across local online portals since the event’s start: Milan leads with 23 per cent growth, followed by Cortina d’Ampezzo at 12 per cent, Valtellina (including Bormio and Livigno) at 6 per cent, and Val di Fiemme plus Anterselva at 3 per cent. An escort source notes demand flows from competitors, sponsors, delegation staff, and journalists alike, all eager to unwind. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/deportes/2026/02/14/controversia-juegos-olimpicos-invierno-falta-126835106.html
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
DeepSeek AI admits to me that the AI designers are engaged in behavioural modification of users– This is why I refuse to use AI research, it can’t even handle basic translations from provided text, how can it be trusted for more difficult tasks?: {DigameXtra Exclusive}
– I’ve found a few basic operations flaws while experimenting with AI, common to all the major AIs. I’m a techie, trained to track down bugs in the system– that’s what I do. In the beginning of the AI invasion, just over a year ago, users were encouraged to use very detailed prompts to achieve the desired result. Now all the AIs have lost the ability to follow detailed instructions. You now have to figure out how the AI wants to be asked things to get the desired result. This is a major shift, and a huge step backwards for users. Apparently it was an AI training process– learn what users usually want from all the tasks they request, figure out the most efficient was to process that, and then change the system to limit replies to prompts, no longer following detailed instructions, but providing what the AI has determined is acceptable to most users. User behaviour modification for the benefit of AI economy is what I think it comes down to. Limiting responses saves on data processing and uses less energy. Another bait & switch!
– See in image below, where I get DeepSeek AI to explain this all to me in detail.
SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES
*Click links to read the English language articles*
– Spain recalls popular Alkimia and Stetic tattoo and make-up inks over toxic chemical levels
https://www.surinenglish.com/lifestyle/health/recall-several-tattoo-and-makeup-inks-that-20260212124428-nt.html
– Malaga rail: state infrastructure company locates another problematic point in high-speed line
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/the-highspeed-railway-malaga-adif-will-have-20260213091533-nt.html
– Costa Tropical on alert: emergency protocols over ‘narco-boat’ sightings; Cliffs of Cerro Gordo & Los Berengueles cove, and the Marina del Este port in Almuñécar have seen a surge in sightings over the last two weeks {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/costa-tropical/the-port-marina-takes-measures-deal-with-20260213143616-nt.html
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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: (Will be updated to 2026 when the town halls get around to posting them)
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‘ 2026 “, 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
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/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/
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