EasyJet Launches New Summer Flights: Belfast City to Alicante from 2nd May 2024

Starting May 2, EasyJet will commence flights from Belfast City to Alicante, Spain.

These flights are planned for Thursdays and Sundays, continuing throughout the summer season.

Discover the benefits of visiting Spain for golf enthusiasts. Alicante offers some of the most scenic and challenging golf courses in Europe. With a perfect blend of sunny weather, diverse landscapes, and impeccably maintained greens, it’s a paradise for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a leisurely round in a beautiful setting, Alicante’s golf courses are a compelling reason to board an EasyJet flight this summer.

During your visit, explore the opportunity to own a piece of this golfer’s paradise by checking out frontline golf properties at Alenda Golf. These properties offer stunning views of the golf course, modern amenities, and a lifestyle imbued with the tranquillity and beauty of the surrounding landscape. Investing in a property at Alenda Golf not only promises a serene retreat but also places you right in the heart of one of Spain’s most sought-after golfing destinations, Alenda Golf.

3 Bedroom Townhouse | Alenda Golf

3 Bedroom Townhouse | Alenda Golf

No Tourist Tax for Brits in Valencia Region

Could the prospect of a tourist levy deter holidaymakers from choosing certain destinations? To dispel doubts, some Spanish areas have assured that British tourists will not be subject to the mooted tax.

Carlos Mazon, head of the Valencian Community, which includes Castellon, Valencia, and Alicante provinces, pledged just before the May election triumph that British visitors would not be hit with the feared tourist tax. This region, hosting the UK’s beloved Costa Blanca, has taken decisive action to ensure the proposed charge is not enforced.

No Tourist Tax for Brits in Valencia Region

Valencian Assurance

“The paperwork is almost complete,” Carlos Mazon, of Spain’s People’s Party, announced at the World Travel Market London, referring to measures to block the Valencian Community Tourist Tax.

Tourism Over Taxes

Mazon emphasised the value of British tourists, stating, “We want to reassure them that there’s no need to worry about this ideological tax distancing us from the British market, in particular.”

He shared his discomfort with the idea of such a tax: “On behalf of this community, I’m embarrassed to come to London and tell tourists that, despite being a source of wealth and income, they must pay for the privilege.”

A Welcoming Gesture

Mazon’s message was clear: “I want to come here and express our appreciation for their visits, which bring prosperity, and to extend a warm welcome.”

Regional Responses

While the Valencian Community has dismissed the tax, the Balearic Islands and Catalonia have implemented it. The Basque Country is still undecided. Asturias, under Adrian Barbon, has introduced the tax, allowing local councils to determine its application.

EasyJet’s New Alicante Base: 9 Fresh Routes!

 

During his visit to the UK, Carlos Mazón, President of the Valencia Region, announced that EasyJet is set to establish a new base at the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport. From this base, the airline will introduce nine new routes connecting with the UK, France, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.

This development was confirmed following a meeting with representatives from the British airline, who reaffirmed their dedication to the Valencian Community. This will be EasyJet’s fourth base in Spain, operational from March 2024, and is expected to generate around 100 new jobs.

EasyJet's New Alicante Base: 9 Fresh Routes!"

Mazón has confirmed that these new connections will facilitate the arrival of approximately 125,000 passengers to the region during the next summer season, promising a significant economic boost for the local tourism industry. This comes amidst concerns that the airport is currently under pressure to handle the surge in summer traffic, with ongoing debates about the need for a second runway and improved public transport links.

The new routes will specifically link Alicante to Southampton and Zurich starting from 31 March next year, and to Newcastle, Belfast, Prague, Lyon, Lille, Nantes, and Nice from April and May 2024.

The establishment of these new air routes is particularly advantageous for the Alicante area, offering owners and visitors, especially golf enthusiasts, improved connectivity and access to one of Spain’s premier golfing destinations.

Digital Euro Advances: Spain Leads with Cashless Society Ambitions

The European Central Bank is advancing its plans for the digital euro, with the Bank of Spain not only in support but also leading, being six months ahead of its counterparts. Spain’s interim Socialist Government has shown its inclination toward a cashless society, evident from its legislative measures limiting cash payments in excess of €2,000 and then  €1,000

The attractiveness of a cashless society to many banks lies in the potential for transaction charges on card payments or transfers.

Interestingly, the Bank of Spain, although favouring the digital euro, commissioned market research firm IPSOS to gauge public sentiment.

These surveys, encompassing 1,600 individuals and small businesses, revealed limited knowledge and enthusiasm for the digital currency. Only 20% of respondents were familiar with the digital euro, and just 20% of businesses were open to accepting it.

Surprisingly, 65% explicitly expressed no intention to accept the digital euro, showing a 7% increase from a 2022 survey.

Among the 18-24 age bracket, seen as the most tech-savvy, only 36% were inclined to use the digital euro. This figure dwindles with increasing age, with a mere 7% of those over 65 favouring it.

Thus, while the digital euro might find its place in high-value transactions between corporations, it’s unlikely to be a prevalent payment method for everyday purchases in the near future.

 

Plans for the Digital Euro / The European Central Bank is Advancing Plans

The Ongoing Quest of British Tourists for More Days in Sunny Spain

Despite the ever-changing dynamics of global travel, British tourists remain at the forefront of those gracing the sun-soaked shores of Spain. They don’t just come for visits; a significant number also express a keen interest in having a holiday home in the country. Spain, with its rich culture and beautiful coastlines like Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol, heavily relies on these holidaymakers. However, it’s been observed that there’s a gradual dip in the number of British visitors and property enthusiasts. Why, you might ask? It seems the allure of destinations like Cyprus is turning some heads.

A considerable hiccup for Brits, especially those with a penchant for spending the colder months in warmer Spanish climes, is the 90/180 day rule imposed in the Schengen area for Non-EU residents. It restricts them to a mere three months in Spain for every six months. It’s particularly irksome for those wishing to escape the chilly British winter. To add to the woes, those who own properties in managed communities face the brunt of paying full-year community charges but are restricted to use the amenities for just half the year.

This conundrum has given birth to an active Facebook group, ‘180 Days in Spain’. Their mission? To campaign rigorously for the rights of British passport holders. They advocate not just for the opportunity to spend an uninterrupted six months in Spain, but also for relaxed travel to other Schengen countries beyond the current Spanish constraints.

Sign up and add your weight to the challenge.

The British Love for Spanish Homes Continues Despite Brexit

The British Love for Spanish Homes Continues Despite Brexit

Despite the political turmoil of Brexit, it seems the allure of Spanish homes hasn’t waned for the British. In the realm of foreign house purchases in Spain, Brits are still in the lead. But what does the bigger picture look like, and how do other nationalities compare in this Mediterranean real estate dance?

Who’s Buying in Spain? A Snapshot

– Brits top the list, making up 9.6% of house purchases by foreigners.

– Germans come in second at 8.1%.

– Moroccans are a close third with 7.3%.

– The French trail slightly at 6.56%*

Foreign Nationals Living in Spain: A Population Perspective

When it comes to foreign nationals residing in Spain:

– Moroccans hold the top spot with a population of approximately 800,000 as of 2022.

– The British community, although fervent in property purchase, come in third in terms of population with around 316,000 individuals. Romania beats them to the second place, boasting 632,000 nationals.

The Financial Side: Mortgages and Property Values

A fascinating aspect of this is how different nationalities approach the financials of Spanish property ownership. Let’s delve into some specifics:

– Swedes are not only paying the highest amount per square metre but also lead in the highest value mortgages, with an average of €337,413.

– Americans are close on their heels, holding mortgages averaging €335,625.

– Germans follow with €322,455

– The Dutch and the British have similar averages with €226,340 and €232,597 respectively.

What’s intriguing here is the apparent disparity in the British numbers. Despite being the dominant buyers of property in Spain, they don’t top the mortgage value rankings. This could suggest that many of the British buyers are either affluent individuals or perhaps families who have sold their homes in the UK to move to Spain, possibly on a Non-Lucrative or another type of residence visa.

In Conclusion

The British love affair with Spanish property remains strong, even in the face of political changes. However, they’re not alone in their admiration for Spanish real estate, with several other nationalities also making their mark in the Spanish property market. As global dynamics shift, it will be interesting to watch how these trends evolve.

Prime Investment Opportunity at Alenda Golf

 

Situated amidst the tranquil mountains, this three-storey townhouse at Alenda Golf is a gem for investors eyeing the Airbnb or holiday letting market. Its strategic location, combined with top-tier amenities, ensures a consistent demand from visitors year-round.

The property boasts three luxurious bedrooms, including a master with an ensuite, a modern kitchen, and a spacious lounge that opens to a balcony overlooking the pool. The basement, elegantly decorated, leads to a garden with direct pool access.

Alenda Golf offers a range of amenities: an Olympic gym, a tapas bar with golf course views, a restaurant, and a supermarket.

Located just 10 minutes from Alicante and 15 minutes from its international airport, with four other golf courses within 30 minutes, it’s an ideal spot for golf enthusiasts.

Seize this opportunity to invest in a property that blends luxury with promising returns.

The Alenda Golf Course

Alenda Golf offers 18 holes of championship golf designed and built by Roland Favrat.

The golf course was completed in October 1999 and covers 49 hectares of land, 18 holes, par 72 and 6,257 metres in length, as well as an excellent 9 hole practice area.

The Golf School is guided by the Golf Federation of the Valencian Community.

Alenda Golf has been used as a European Tour Qualifying School and many Senior Spanish Championships have been held here.

A perfect and complete Golf Rental Opportunity, call Gloria on + 34 649 649

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a New Property

The Spanish property market has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past couple of years. Following the pandemic, there was an unprecedented surge in the demand for new build properties in Spain.

This surge was driven by consumers eager to invest their accumulated savings, resulting in double-digit growth in property prices, especially for off-plan properties.

This boom was further fuelled by the rising inflation rates. With banks offering negligible interest on savings deposits, many saw real estate as a safe haven for their funds. Investing in bricks and mortar became a preferred choice for many to shield their savings from the eroding effects of inflation.

However, as with any rapid expansion, there are bound to be some hiccups along the way. Despite the best efforts of developers, construction flaws can sometimes be overlooked.

It’s crucial for potential buyers to be aware of these pitfalls. One of the best ways to safeguard against such issues is to commission a snagging list before officially taking possession of the property.

Independent chartered surveyors, though an additional expense for the buyer, can identify even the most concealed construction flaws. These detailed reports are invaluable tools for lawyers, enabling them to advocate for their clients more effectively and ensure that any issues are rectified.

In this article, we’ll delve into the three primary construction guarantees available when purchasing off-plan property in Spain and the timeframes within which claims can be made.

  1. Construction Flaws: 1-Year Guarantee

For a period of one year, both the developer and the constructor are jointly accountable for any construction flaws. These are typically defects that are visible to the untrained eye and are usually identified during a snagging list inspection before the property’s completion. They pertain mainly to the final touches of the construction.

It’s advisable not to finalise the purchase until these flaws are addressed. If this isn’t feasible, buyers should consider retaining a portion of the payment until the issues are resolved, typically within a six-month window post-completion. This approach ensures that the developers remain motivated to rectify the flaws promptly.

Common examples include mismatched or missing floor tiles, chipped paint, defective doorknobs, dripping taps, and other issues arising from poor workmanship or subpar materials.

  1. Dwelling Hazards: 3-Year Guarantee

This category encompasses defects that directly affect the habitability of the property. Such flaws are usually more severe, posing risks to the health and safety of the inhabitants or even the environment. The guarantee for these hazards spans three years.

Some instances include damp patches in rooms leading to mould growth, malfunctioning electrical appliances, and gas leaks.

  1. Structural Problems: 10-Year Warranty

Often referred to as the “Seguro Decenal”, this ten-year warranty is a cornerstone of the Spanish property market. It addresses significant structural issues that jeopardise the building’s stability and can be life-threatening. An insurance firm oversees the entire construction process, ensuring that the materials and construction adhere to Spanish laws and standards.

However, it’s worth noting that the application of this warranty can be quite restrictive.

Examples of structural problems include landslides due to unstable foundations, large cracks threatening the building’s integrity, and roofs collapsing from heavy rainfall.

Understanding the Guarantee Protection Timeline

A common misconception is that these guarantees commence from the completion date at the notary. However, the countdown for these guarantees begins from the time the developer receives the “Acta de Recepción”, which always precedes the notary completion.

In Conclusion

Spain’s thriving property market is once again witnessing a surge in new construction property sales. Given this boom, it’s imperative to foster a culture of awareness around Consumer Rights. This is especially crucial for foreigners and expatriates, ensuring they are well-informed about their rights and how to exercise them in the ever-evolving Spanish property landscape.

New Build Ultra Modern Townhouses Coming to Alenda Golf

New Build Ultra Modern Townhouses Coming to Alenda Golf

Private residential complex situated close to the airport, the main cities and the best beaches in the province of Alicante, on a 15 minutes drive by car from Elche and Alicante.

Sunrise Views is located in peaceful surroundings at Alenda Golf Course in Monforte.

The houses are provided with a complete aerothermal energy system for heating, air conditioning, and domestic hot water, a renewable energy system that takes advantage of external environmental energy.

Adosados Ultramodernos De Nueva Construcción en Alenda Golf

Urbanización privada cercana a las principales ciudades de la provincia de Alicante, a 15 minutos en coche de Elche y a 20 de Alicante, así como al aeropuerto y las mejores playas.

Sunrise Views se encuentra ubicada en un entorno tranquilo en las inmediaciones de Alenda Golf Course.

Las viviendas cuentan con aerotermla completa, sistema de renovadle que aprovecha la energía ambiental exterior.

 

More cheap high-speed trains announced.

Ouigo Introduces Additional High-Speed Train Service Between Alicante and Madrid

Good news for travellers between Alicante and Madrid! Starting from 12th December, an additional high-speed train service will be available, thanks to the private company, Ouigo. This enhancement in the train service is a testament to the growing demand and the commitment of service providers to cater to the needs of the public.

The French-based firm made the announcement this Wednesday, highlighting that the frequency of trains operating on the Alicante-Albacete-Madrid route would be increased. Previously, there were two trains per day in each direction. However, with this new addition, passengers can now choose from three daily services in both directions.

This move by Ouigo not only offers more flexibility for travellers but also signifies the strengthening ties and improved connectivity between these two major Spanish cities. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, this increased frequency ensures that you have more options to choose from, making your journey smoother and more convenient.

Ouigo Introduce un Servicio Adicional de Tren de Alta Velocidad Entre Alicante y Madrid

¡Buenas noticias para los viajeros entre Alicante y Madrid! A partir del 12 de diciembre, estará disponible un servicio adicional de tren de alta velocidad, gracias a la empresa privada, Ouigo. Esta mejora en el servicio de trenes es un testimonio de la creciente demanda y del compromiso de los proveedores de servicios para satisfacer las necesidades del público.

La firma con sede en Francia hizo el anuncio este miércoles, destacando que la frecuencia de los trenes que operan en la ruta Alicante-Albacete-Madrid se incrementaría. Anteriormente, había dos trenes al día en cada dirección. Sin embargo, con esta nueva adición, los pasajeros ahora pueden elegir entre tres servicios diarios en ambas direcciones.

Este movimiento de Ouigo no solo ofrece más flexibilidad para los viajeros, sino que también significa el fortalecimiento de los lazos y la mejora de la conectividad entre estas dos importantes ciudades españolas. Ya sea que viaje por negocios o por placer, esta mayor frecuencia asegura que tenga más opciones para elegir, haciendo que su viaje sea más fluido y conveniente.

Ouigo Trains / Alenda Golf Property

Book Here

 

Spanish house prices move against the eurozone trend

Spanish house prices continue to rise, unlike in many other eurozone countries

Despite rising interest rates, Spanish house prices continue to rise
A resilient property demand
Supply has been growing too slowly for several years
Spanish property market also less overheated during pandemic
We expect house prices to continue to rise, albeit at a slower pace

Read the full Ing Bank article here!

ING Spanish Property Price / Alenda Golf Property

 

 

 

11 Reasons to Choose to Live at Alenda Golf

11 Reasons to Choose to Live at Alenda Golf

Hi, I might be a bit biased, having called Alenda Golf home for 17 years, I can’t help but share the top 11 reasons why you should consider living here too.

Space to Breathe, Space to Live and Space to Play

Being able to live on a golf course at the foot of the Sierra de las Aguilas offers you a feeling of openness, space, fresh air with no pollution.  A healthy lifestyle.

Local Supermarket

There is a great supermarket located close to the Alenda Golf Clubhouse and it is stocked with all types of international products, fresh fruit, bread made on the premises, and local wines.  Run by two brothers who take pride in the services they provide, open 7 days per week and most national holidays –

Alenda Golf Clubhouse

The clubhouse is an ultramodern building that looks over the front nine holes at Alenda Golf.  It has a great Tapas Bar Restaurant, Olympic-style gym, changing rooms with saunas a fully stacked pro shop, and large covered patio for al fresco dining and relaxing.

The Alenda Golf Course

Alenda Golf offers 18 holes of championship golf designed and built by Roland Favrat.  The golf course was completed in October 1999 and covers 49 hectares of land, 18 holes, par 72 and 6,257 metres in length, as well as an excellent 9 hole practice area.

The Golf School is guided by the Golf Federation of the Valencian Community.

Alenda Golf has been used as a European Tour Qualifying School and many Senior Spanish Championships have been held here.

Access

Access to a from Alenda Golf is easy, it is located just 15 minutes from Alicante Airport, 15 minutes from Alicante with its vibrant nightlife, bars, and restaurants, and just 10 minutes from Elche which is known for its Vila Murada old town and the Palmeral of Elche, a vast palm grove.

Communications

At Alenda Golf you can use the existing Telefonica Telephone Systems or go with the local Cable World infrastructure that provides Internet, Phone, Mobiles, and TV

Clean

Alenda Golf is cleaned, maintained and rubbish is collected by the local junta in Monforte Del Cid

Property

Alenda Golf offers a range of properties including Frontline Golf Villas, Townhouses built by Taylor Wimpey, and apartments that overlook the back 9 holes at Alenda.  The choice and range of investments provide home hunters with plenty to consider.

Great Investment

At Alenda Golf, the property prices present excellent investment potential. Whether you’re looking for a starter apartment or a rental opportunity, a 2-bedroom frontline golf property with underground parking, access to two swimming pools, and a prime location is available at just a bit above £120k – truly a remarkable value.

Security

Alenda Golf has several security cameras on the roads surrounding the golf course, there is a neighbour watch group that communicates using urbanisation groups and WhatsApp.

School

For those with growing families, there is excellent private education at Colegio San Alberto Magno.  It’s a bilingual private school with a complete educational offer in the stages of Infant, Primary, Secondary, and Baccalaureate Education.

Frontline Golf Apartment Alenda Golf

Frontline Golf Apartment Alenda Golf

 

 

 

 

 

Spain’s New Animal Welfare Law: Key Points

Introduction:

  • Spain has introduced a new Animal Welfare Law.
  • The official title is “Law 7/2023, of March 28, on the protection of the rights and well-being of animals.”
  • It was published on Friday, 29th September.

Main Changes and Prohibitions:

Some past habits of pet owners could lead to fines.

One notable change: Owners can no longer leave their dogs tied up outside supermarkets or other establishments while shopping.

Spain’s New Animal Welfare Law: Key Points

As per section d) of Article 27: It’s prohibited to leave pets ‘tied or wandering through public spaces without in-person supervision by the person responsible for their care and behavior.

Breaching this rule, among others in the law, may result in a fine

Penalty Framework:

Article 73 categorises leaving a dog tied up in this manner as a minor infraction.

Penalty breakdown:

Minor infractions:

Warning or a fine between €500 and €10,000.

Serious violations: Fine of €10,001 to €50,000.

Very serious infractions: Fine of €50,001 to €200,000.

Insurance Considerations:

The General Directorate of Insurance (DGS) issued guidance on the insurance implications.

Key points from the circular:

  • Insurance for dogs isn’t mandatory unless stated by regional or local regulations or specific use-cases involving the dog.
  • Existing dogs continue to be covered by home insurance, barring exceptions like dangerous breeds or those needing specific civil liability insurance.
  • As an indicative price for civil liability of €300,000:
  • The annual premium ranges from €50 to €90, with an excess of €150 to €300.

This law marks a significant change in Spain’s approach to animal welfare, emphasising the well-being and protection of pets.

 

 

 

 

 

Spain’s Urban Communities – understand the basics

Spain’s Urban Communities – understand the basics

Living in one of Spain’s vibrant urbanisations is a unique experience. However, along with the joys come certain responsibilities. It’s a delicate balance of community benefits and individual rights.

The Purpose of Comunidad de Proprietarios

Spain’s urban areas house numerous Comunidad de Proprietarios – a gathering of property owners ensuring that the shared elements of the community, like swimming pools and gardens, are maintained. Through annual meetings, decisions about the community’s upkeep are discussed and implemented. This communal spirit keeps the neighbourhood vibrant and cohesive.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Isn’t it fascinating how a collective can influence the quality of living? Let’s explore.

Merits of Living in a Spanish Community

A well-functioning community ensures that properties remain pristine, rules are adhered to, and the occasional transient visitors respect the community’s ethos.

Potential Disadvantages to Consider

However, it’s not all roses. Altering your property may require permissions, and the rules set by the community can sometimes feel restrictive. Conflicts over community fees and disagreements among members can also be sources of tension.

What to Know Before You Buy

Knowledge is power. Before buying property in Spain, take the time to learn about the community you’ll potentially become a part of.

An Insight into Community Fees

Ah, community fees! A crucial part of community living but often a bone of contention. How does it work?

Fee Structure and Collection

Based on the property’s title deeds, each owner pays an annual fee that varies from one community to another. Depending on the community’s preference, these fees can be collected monthly, quarterly, or even yearly.

How Fees are Used

  • Maintenance of common areas and lifts
  • Upkeeping gardens and cleanliness
  • Administrative costs
  • Security measures and personnel
  • And the enticing community pool you can’t wait to dive into!

Challenges in Fee Collection

But sometimes, collecting fees isn’t smooth sailing. Communities might struggle if many properties remain vacant or if certain members become defaulters. Such issues can lead to increased expenses for active community members.

Consequences of Not Paying Fees

Unpaid fees? Expect restrictions. You’ll lose your voting rights in annual meetings and won’t have a say in crucial decisions. And remember, selling your property will require clearing all dues. And let’s not confuse these with the Spanish council tax, which covers external services like road maintenance.

Running a Community: What to Expect

Every Comunidad de Proprietarios has its rhythm and rules. And you, as a property owner, are right in the mix.

Leadership and Administration

Each community elects a president, an owner like you, and employs an administrator familiar with community laws. Their combined efforts keep the community ticking.

Annual General Meetings

This is where the magic happens! Budget discussions, statute approvals, and other vital decisions are made during this gathering. Owners are encouraged to actively participate, voice concerns, and vote on crucial matters.

Languages and Participation

While Spanish might dominate these meetings, communities with a significant number of foreign members might switch languages. And if you can’t attend? No worries. Delegate your vote to someone trustworthy or appoint a proxy.

Role of Administrators

The appointed administrator ensures that everything runs seamlessly. They maintain records of all meetings which, if needed, can serve as legal evidence.

How Membership Works

The moment you buy a property in Spain’s urbanisation, you’re in! No choices here. You automatically become a member of the Comunidad de Proprietarios and inherit both its benefits and responsibilities.

In conclusion, while the idea of communal living might seem overwhelming, understanding its workings can turn the experience into a delightful one. So, are you ready to embrace Spain’s unique urban communities?

FAQs

  1. How are community fees determined?

Each community decides its fee structure based on annual expenses, and every owner pays according to their property’s title deeds.

  1. Can I avoid joining the Comunidad de Proprietarios?

No, once you buy a property, you automatically become a member.

  1. What if I don’t agree with community decisions?

Attending annual meetings gives you a platform to voice concerns and influence decisions.

  1. How is the community’s leadership chosen?

Members elect a president from among the property owners and hire an experienced administrator.

  1. What’s the difference between community fees and Spanish council tax?

Community fees cover internal community expenses, while the council tax pays for external services like major road maintenance.

Alenda Golf Apartments For Sale

 

 

 

 

 

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