Walkway to the mediterranean
Nerja, Costa del Sol

In the news

It's happening everywhere. Everything is going up or going down in the opposite direction to how you would like it to. So pension ages go up, but the amount of pension you might receive is going down. In common with other parts of Europe, the Spanish Government is proposing that the retirement age should go up to 67.Pensions in Spain are seen as generous in comparison to some other countries. However this generosity could be eroded as it is proposed that workers must have contributed longer (now 20 instead of 15 years) before being entitled to a pension.

Gossip on the forums

What the word is on the streets

One of the main topics of debate has been the ban on smoking. In general the comments have been evenly divided with few sitting on the fence. It's early days and we've yet to see what difference it will make to the hostelry trade. It's shouldn't be too hard to adapt for non-resident smokers used to living with the ban already. Slightly harder for those residents used to carrying their cigarette everywhere with them. Whether you think it's for the better or the worse, cafes and restaurants in Spain will never be the same again.

A Touch of Art

If you're not feeling energetic but would like to learn something new you could try Suzanne Stokes' art classes in Ciudad Quesada on the Costa Blanca at Hotel El Corazon(Thursday) and PALS Social Club, La Siesta (Monday morning). The classes are aimed at mature students at any level from beginner upwards. If you like the idea of brandishing a brush why don't you have a look at her website www.sue-stokes.co.uk or contact her on 00 34 680 961 025.

Spanish transfer tax

In the current climate those who are buying are buying bargains. When your property transfer tax is calculated it is likely that you will use the title deed value. However, we are seeing cases where property is being re-valued on behalf of the Tax Authority by an architect. In some cases this is leading to a reassessment of the transfer tax paid and a subsequent tax demand. This can happen at any time in the four years following your purchase. For more information read our article.

Catching the big fish…

Spain has a new criminal code that means that businesses can be criminally liable and can face severe penalties if they are found guilty of fraud, bribery, money laundering or tax offences. Click here to find out more.

…and the motorists

Beware. If you commit crimes such as speeding at over 200 kms/ hour on the motorway or driving with more than 1.2 grams of alcohol in your blood your car could not only be impounded but repossessed. For more information click here.

Ready, steady, cook in Moncayo

Or rather, the 'Kitchen Cook Off' is based in Moncayo Market at the Procomobel Home Centre (on the N332 between Guardamar and La Mata, Alicante) every Saturday starting January 22nd. It's a little like 'Ready Steady Cook' with two restaurants competing against one another. You can pay 2€ to be a taster (money goes to charity) and then vote for your favourite dish. A free drink is included and on February 5th a family fun day has been planned as well. If you are interested in taking part as a taster you should contact sueinthesun@terra.es to book your place.

The monument to Christopher Columbus
Benalmádena, Costa del Sol