COSTA BLANCA, ALL VALENCIA REGION NEWS

The low-cost chains quietly spreading across Spain's high streetsFrom bargain furniture to discounted fashion and beauty, a growing wave of budget retailers is reshaping the Spanish high street Spain’s retail landscape is increasingly being shaped by a new generation of low-cost chains that many shoppers may.. 20/03/2026

Rise in hate speech linked to burka debate and Ramadan, new report findsSharp increase in online abuse comes as political tensions grow over face covering measures in Spain Hate speech targeting people of foreign origin rose sharply in Spain in February, with new data pointing to a link between online hostility and recent.. 20/03/2026

Almost 80% of Spaniards see nuclear war as a real possibility amid global tensionsMost citizens back a strong, well-equipped army, even as fears of catastrophe divide opinion A recent survey by Spain’s official sociological research centre, the Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas (CIS), shows that the threat of global.. 17/03/2026

Why does Spain have different days for Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day?This is when Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day are traditionally held in Spain, and why they are different from other countries In many countries around the world, Fathers' Day and Mothers' Day are celebrated on different dates, each.. 17/03/2026

Track Renfe trains live from your phoneNew website shows real-time positions for high-speed and long-distance services Renfe has rolled out a handy new website across Spain, where you can follow high-speed, long-distance and medium-distance trains in real time. It's a step up in keeping passengers..

Mercadona stores in Spain are about to get a brand-new look!Record €1.73 billion profit alongside rollout of efficient 'Store 9' model Mercadona wrapped up 2025 with impressive numbers that have president Juan Roig beaming. "We are very, very, very happy," he said three times over while.. 12/03/2026

Spain cracks down on online hate with new social media trackerThe government's new tool 'HODIO' will monitor hate speech and polarising content across social media The Spanish government is stepping up its fight against hate speech online with a new tool called HODIO, which stands for 'Footprint.. 12/03/2026

Middle East airspace crisis leaves Spain travellers in limbo: Your refund rights explainedOCU reminds travellers to and from Spain that airlines must still rebook or refund tickets The conflict in the Middle East is now having a direct impact on travellers to and from Spain, with flight cancellations leaving families separated and holiday.. 06/03/2026

Spain's miserable winter weather could finally be coming to an end, according to the UNLa Niña, which has been driving unpredictable weather across Spain and much of the world, could give way to calmer conditions between March and May It feels like Spain's weather has been all over the place since the start of the year. Warm.. 06/03/2026

The definitive guide to choosing a health insurance policy for expats Are you planning to move to Spain and looking for a health insurance policy specifically designed for expats? We understand that such an abundance of information can be overwhelming, particularly when you wish to make a decision as quickly as possible.. 05/03/2026

Alicante port kicks off 2026 cruise season with a splashCarnival Dreams brings 3,600 passengers as 112 ship calls are expected this year Alicante's port has launched its 2026 cruise season in style this Monday, welcoming the Carnival Dreams for its maiden visit to Pier 14. The 306-meter ship carried 3.. 04/03/2026

Spain bucks global trend as child obesity rates dip2.1 million kids affected but numbers set to fall further Spain stands out in the latest World Obesity Atlas 2026, released today on World Obesity Day, as one of just 15 countries worldwide to see a drop in childhood obesity and overweight rates among.. 04/03/2026

So much disruption is expected to Spanish trains that Renfe is creating its own bus replacement companyThe rail giant invests €61.5 million to ensure smoother alternative transport as competition heats up Renfe has announced a major shake-up to its approach in managing disruptions in Spain. The rail operator will create its own bus company in a bid.. 04/03/2026

European Bizum arrives: Free instant payments across Germany, Portugal, Italy and the Nordics from 2026Spanish mobile payment system joins forces with Wero, MB Way, Bancomat and Vipps MobilePay to allow cross-border transfers across 13 countries Free instant payments between Spain and much of Europe are set to become a reality from 2026, after Bizum agreed.. 04/03/2026

Where are the safest regions in Spain if WW3 breaks out?Mountainous areas and islands emerge as top safe zones amid rising global tensions The recent US and Israeli military offensive against Iran, followed by Iran's response, has led to the bombing of military bases in allied countries, including a British.. 03/03/2026

Simple ways to make smartphones easier for older loved onesBigger icons, clearer sound and simple shortcuts can make mobiles much more senior-friendly Helping mum, dad or grandparents get to grips with a smartphone does not have to be daunting. With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can turn a confusing device into.. 03/03/2026

Why are smoke alarms still so rare in Spanish homes?A simple €15 device could cut the number of fire deaths in the country Personal security is front and centre in many Spanish homes, with bars on windows guarding against break-ins. Yet fire safety, something as straightforward as a smoke alarm, often..

Spain's 2025 Income Tax simulator is now live: Check if you owe money or get a refundThe Spanish Tax Agency tool lets you preview your Renta result without needing a Cl@ve or digital certificate The countdown to this year’s Spanish income tax campaign (Declaración de la Renta) has officially begun. The 2026 filing period.. 20/02/2026

Spain's minimum wage set to rise 3.1% to €1,221 per month as government signs off on increaseThe pay increase will be backdated to the start of the year for minimum wage earners across Spain We’re already half way through February but the news Spain’s minimum wage earners have been waiting for is finally here. On Monday February 16..

Spain gears up for exceptional year with 13 full moons lighting up the skies in 2026Wolf Moon and Snow Moon have already passed but 11 celestial spectacles are still to come including the rare Blue Moon in May Stargazers across Spain are in for a treat this year with 13 full moons set to light up the night sky throughout 2026, making.. 10/02/2026