The rise of the second-hand market in Spain and across Europe

The boom in the second-hand market in Spain and across Europe is a clear sign that our shopping habits are changing. What was once seen as a minority choice or a financial necessity has now become a widespread trend. This shift is driven by a combination of practical needs and a change in our collective values, as more and more people move away from the ‘buy new, throw away quickly’ mindset.

One of the main factors driving this shift is a growing sense of environmental responsibility. People are becoming increasingly aware of the ecological footprint of mass production, and choosing second-hand items is a simple way to support the circular economy. By giving objects a second life, we reduce waste and lower the demand for new resources, making sustainability a personal, everyday choice.

Economic factors play an equally important role. With the rising cost of living and the pressures of globalisation, the second-hand market offers a smart financial alternative. It allows people to find high-quality products at a fraction of their original price. It is not just about saving money, but about being clever in an era where the ‘ever-present’ economic crisis makes us rethink every purchase.

Finally, there is a strong social shift towards minimalism and a better way of life. Many of us feel overwhelmed by the amount of ‘stuff’ that accumulates in our homes and seek to tidy and declutter to gain physical and mental space. Although some worry that this trend might harm traditional local shops, it actually creates a more diverse market in which vintage boutiques and modern resale platforms can thrive alongside existing businesses.

Vocabulary related with examples sentences

Boom / Rise (Auge / Incremento)
Synonyms: Surge, explosion, growth.
The boom in resale apps has changed how teenagers shop for clothes.

Second-hand / Pre-loved (De segunda mano / Usado)
Synonyms: Used, vintage, previously owned.
Buying pre-loved furniture is an excellent way to find unique pieces for your home.

Ecological footprint (Huella ecológica)
Synonyms: Environmental impact, carbon footprint.
We can significantly reduce our ecological footprint by repairing items instead of throwing them away.

Circular economy (Economía circular)
Synonyms: Sustainable loop, closed-loop system.
The circular economy focuses on reusing resources to minimize waste and pollution.

Cost of living (Coste de vida)
Synonyms: Living expenses, household costs.
Many families turn to thrift stores because the cost of living has increased so much recently.

To declutter (Hacer limpieza / Despejar)
Synonyms: To tidy up, to clear out, to organize.
I decided to declutter my wardrobe this weekend and donated three bags of clothes.

To thrive (Prosperar / Florecer)
Synonyms: To flourish, to succeed, to grow.
Small vintage shops continue to thrive despite the competition from large online platforms.

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Spain: The imperfect paradise expats can't resist

There is something almost indescribable about Spain that continues to attract people from all over the world to settle within its borders. Whether it is the golden coastal lines of the Mediterranean, the winding streets of its historic centres, or the contagiously warm nature of its people, the country ranks consistently among the most desirable destinations for expatriates worldwide. However, as with any move, the reality of everyday life reveals a much more nuanced picture than the postcard images suggest.

The charms (Pros)

Spain's appeal lies primarily in its extraordinary quality of life. The slow-paced, sociable lifestyle, firmly rooted in the present, contrasts sharply with the fast-paced lifestyle that characterises much of northern Europe. Spaniards don't just eat, they enjoy their meals. They don't just socialise, they cultivate relationships between generations, weaving a rich web of community and tradition.

This lifestyle is complemented by the country's desirable climate. While cities such as London and Berlin endure months of persistent grey rain, most of Spain enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. For those accustomed to seasonal affective disorder and thermal underwear, this alone is a game-changer.

The natural landscape further enhances the country's magnetism. From the volcanic terrain of the Canary Islands to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees and the fertile plains of Andalusia, Spain's geographical diversity is breathtaking. Add to this a culinary heritage—tapas, Iberian ham, paella, and world-class wines—that elevates food to an art form, and the case for moving here becomes irresistible.

The exceptions (Cons)

However, Spain is not without its drawbacks. The housing market, especially in Madrid and Barcelona (and also in Valencia, my city), has become increasingly inaccessible, with rents rising dramatically in recent years. Bureaucratic procedures, from obtaining residence permits to registering a company, are known to be complicated and lengthy ("a real hell of burocracy), often requiring almost superhuman patience.

The language barrier is another significant obstacle. Outside of major urban centres, English proficiency remains limited, making basic administrative tasks unexpectedly difficult for newcomers. Furthermore, the job market offers comparatively fewer opportunities for highly skilled individuals than its northern European equivalents, posing a real challenge for expatriates with professional ambitions.

The verdict

Spain, in its true sense, is a country that rewards those who are willing to adapt. Its imperfections are real, but for the vast majority of expatriates, these are more than made up for by the richness, warmth and extraordinary beauty that this country so generously offers. It is, without a doubt, a place worth calling home.

Vocabulary related with example sentences

Indescribable: too extraordinary to be put into words

"The feeling of arriving in a new country for the first time is almost indescribable."

Expatriate: a person living outside their native country

"As an expatriate in Tokyo, she quickly learned that patience and curiosity were essential."

Nuanced: having subtle distinctions; not straightforward

"His nuanced view of immigration went far beyond the simplistic headlines in the press."

Cultivate: to develop or nurture something carefully over time

"Living abroad forced her to cultivate friendships in ways she never had back home."

Persistent: continuing firmly despite difficulty or opposition

"The persistent rain throughout November made her seriously reconsider staying in Dublin."

Magnetism: he quality of being powerfully attractive

"The magnetism of Mediterranean life is hard to resist once you've experienced it firsthand."

Elevate: to raise something to a higher level or status

"A great chef can elevate the simplest ingredients into something truly memorable."

Inaccessible: difficult or impossible to reach or afford

"Central city housing has become increasingly inaccessible for young professionals."

Proficiency: a high degree of skill or competence

"Language proficiency opens doors that no amount of charm or goodwill can substitute for."

Equivalents: things that are equal in value, function, or meaning

"The Spanish qualifications are broadly recognised as equivalents to those issued elsewhere in the EU."

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Most companies say AI hasn't improved their productivity, and the numbers back it up

Based on reporting by El Chapuzas Informático (February 2026)

For years, we have been told that artificial intelligence would transform the way we work. Faster results, smaller teams, unbeatable efficiency... The promises were ambitious, and investment followed right behind. However, according to a surprising new survey by the National Bureau of Economic Research, the reality on the ground tells a rather different story.

The study, which involved more than 6,000 CFOs and senior executives from companies across Europe and the United States, revealed that more than 80% of companies using generative AI have not experienced a significant improvement in productivity. Let's think about that for a moment. The vast majority of companies that have actively integrated AI into their workflows are not getting the benefits they were promised.

Speed isn't everything

It's easy to assume that since AI can generate content at a pace no human could match, productivity should naturally follow. But speed is only part of the equation. If the output consistently requires extensive review, data verification, or structural rewrite, the time saved in creation is often lost in correction. Many professionals have quietly come to this conclusion on their own: AI can draft a paragraph in seconds, but turning it into something truly useful can take as long as writing it from scratch.

This subtle point tends to get lost in the broader debate about AI, which has often fluctuated between wild enthusiasm and total rejection. When generative AI first entered the public eye, sceptics were quick to dismiss it as a passing fashion. Those voices have largely been silenced, as adoption has grown steadily year after year. But now, the pendulum may be swinging in a more measured direction: not rejection, but honest re-evaluation.

Adoption is high, impact is low

The survey reveals that around 70% of companies already use AI on a regular basis, with newer companies particularly keen to adopt it. Despite this wide adoption, over 80% of those companies say it has not had a significant impact on productivity over the past three years. The rest reported modest and limited improvements, a far cry from the transformative leap the industry has been heralding.

Interestingly, more than 66% of senior executives say they use AI tools on a regular basis, although the actual time they spend on them is surprisingly low: only about 1.5 hours per week on average. This suggests that, at least at the management level, AI is used for very specific and concrete tasks, rather than becoming a fundamental part of daily decision-making.

A bubble that has not yet burst

There is a growing sense that the AI sector is caught in a peculiar bubble, with investment continuing to pour in at an extraordinary rate, while profits remain hard to come by. Companies are betting heavily on a technology they do not yet know how to use effectively, and employees are being pressured to adopt tools that may not be truly useful for their specific roles. In some sectors, such as video game development, the pressure to integrate AI has met with significant resistance from workers, who feel it is undermining their craft rather than supporting it.

None of this means that AI is useless or that it will disappear. Quite the contrary: it is here to stay, and dismissing it entirely would be as short-sighted as blindly defending it. But the data suggests that simply implementing AI is not, in itself, a strategy.

What comes next?

Despite disappointing results so far, most companies remain optimistic about the medium-term future. The survey suggests that executives anticipate productivity improvements of around 1.4 per cent over the next three years, along with an increase in output of approximately 0.8 per cent. However, when it comes to employment, there is a telling divergence: companies anticipate a reduction in jobs of around 0.7%, while employees themselves believe that AI will actually create a net increase of approximately 0.5% in available positions. Two groups, same technology, very different expectations.

The gap between what AI promises and what it currently delivers is not necessarily a reason to abandon it, but it is a reason to approach it with greater clarity. Real productivity gains, when they occur, will likely require more than just access to the tools. They will require careful integration, adequate training, and a willingness to honestly evaluate what works and what does not.

So far, evidence suggests that most companies have not yet reached that point.

---

Source: El Chapuzas Informático, February 2026. Original reporting by el-brujo. Data sourced from a National Bureau of Economic Research survey of over 6,000 financial directors and executives across Europe and the United States.

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Tympanoplasty and the reality of public healthcare in Spain

A friend of mine recently received the news that she will need to undergo tympanoplasty—a procedure to repair a perforated eardrum—in the coming months. However, the exact date depends entirely on how long the waiting list is. And that uncertainty speaks volumes about the current state of public healthcare in Spain.

Tympanoplasty is not a minor operation. Surgeons carefully reconstruct the eardrum using tissue grafts, often taken from behind the ear, to restore hearing and prevent recurrent infections. Recovery can take several weeks, and although the results are usually positive, the process requires patience and constant monitoring.

Spain's public healthcare system, the Sistema Nacional de Salud, is considered one of the best in the world in terms of coverage and quality. However, it is seriously overburdened. Waiting lists for non-urgent surgeries have grown considerably, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic created a huge backlog of postponed procedures.

For patients like my friend, this means living with discomfort and uncertainty for months, waiting for surgery that could truly transform their quality of life. Universal healthcare is a remarkable achievement, but its sustainability and efficiency remain pressing issues worth discussing.

Key vocabulary with example sentences

• Perforated (adj.) — having a hole or tear
  "The doctor confirmed she had a perforated eardrum after the infection."
• Graft (n.) — tissue taken from one part of the body to repair another
  "The surgeon used a small skin graft to reconstruct the damaged area."
• Recurring (adj.) — happening repeatedly over time
  "She suffered from recurring ear infections throughout her childhood."
• Overstretched (adj.) — under too much pressure due to limited resources
  "The public health system became overstretched during the pandemic."
• Backlog (n.) — a buildup of work or cases that haven't been dealt with yet
  "There is a significant backlog of surgeries that were postponed last year."
• Waiting list (n.) — a list of people waiting for a service or treatment
  "My friend was placed on a waiting list and could wait up to six months."

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Just another voice...

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The Doctor's warning: How your phone habit is changing your brain

Dr William Arias has become famous for helping patients combat obesity and diabetes. However, he has recently raised the alarm about another pressing problem: “brain rot”. According to Arias, “that finger movement with your mobile phone is killing your brain”, which is a shocking warning coming from someone so well versed in how our body's systems can fail. The evidence also supports his claims. In 2024, ‘brain rot’ was named Word of the Year by Oxford, as its use skyrocketed from the previous year, going from internet slang to a major health concern.

The intersection of metabolism and neuroscience

Arias offers important insights into how metabolic dysfunction and brain deterioration mirror each other. His research shows intriguing links between conditions such as obesity and diabetes and the deterioration of cognitive functions, including an elevated risk of dementia. However, mindless scrolling attacks our brains in a different way: through dopamine hijacking.

With each scroll on the screen, dopamine is released, creating unpredictable reward patterns similar to those found in gambling machines. A key region of the brain, known as the habenula, becomes locked into these scrolling loops, draining motivation and making it harder to stop. Over time, this leads the brain to physically restructure itself to long for these dopamine hits.

The effects of this scrolling habit are quantifiable. Even brief periods of regular internet use can decrease attention span capacity, and the impact lasts long after the phone is put away. Intensive use of social media can cause neural loss, reducing the areas of the brain responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making. Brain imaging studies indicate that frequent users have reduced dopamine production in regions crucial for habit formation.

The vicious cycle

When your brain constantly receives pleasurable rewards without the corresponding effort, it begins to produce less dopamine independently. This means that you need even more stimulation just to maintain a sense of normality. Although this resembles a metabolic dysfunction, it affects your attention span more than your blood sugar levels.

Researchers define ‘brain rot’ as cognitive decline and mental fatigue, especially evident in young people who consume excessive amounts of low-quality digital content. Today, a significant number of teenagers claim to be connected to the internet almost all the time, making their still-developing brains particularly vulnerable.

Finding a solution

The answer is not to disconnect completely from digital devices. Studies suggest that modest, sustained reductions, such as cutting back by one hour a day, are more effective than trying to quit altogether, which often leads to relapse.

Consider deleting distracting apps, turning off notifications, and removing features that encourage endless scrolling, such as autoplay functions.

Arias' message rings deeply because he understands the challenges of behavioural change. Whether helping someone reverse diabetes or break free from excessive scrolling, he recognises that people are fighting against systems specifically designed to keep them hooked. That innocent swiping of your finger across the screen is not as harmless as it seems; it is training your brain to need constant stimulation, which impairs your ability to concentrate and think deeply.

‘Brain rot’ is more than just a buzzword; it is a serious warning about cognitive health that requires the same urgency often given to metabolic diseases.

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For more detailed insights about Dr. Arias and his views on "brain rot," you can visit the article directly here.

Vocabulary with related sentences

Combat (verb) - to fight against or attempt to reduce something harmful

The government has introduced new policies to combat rising unemployment rates.

Pressing (adjective) - urgent; requiring immediate attention

Climate change remains one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today.

Skyrocket (verb) - to increase rapidly and dramatically

Housing prices have skyrocketed in major cities, making it difficult for first-time buyers to enter the market.

Deterioration (noun) - the process of becoming progressively worse

The patient's rapid deterioration forced doctors to reconsider their treatment approach.

Hijacking (noun) - the act of illegally seizing control of something

The hijacking of public discourse by extremist voices has become a concerning trend on social media.

Habenula (noun) - a small region of the brain involved in reward processing and motivation

Neuroscientists have discovered that the habenula plays a crucial role in depression and decision-making.

Quantifiable (adjective) - able to be measured or expressed as a quantity

The company needs quantifiable results to justify the investment in the new marketing campaign.

Neural (adjective) - relating to nerves or the nervous system

Researchers are studying neural pathways to better understand how memories are formed and stored.

Fatigue (noun) - extreme physical or mental tiredness

Many healthcare workers experienced severe fatigue after working long shifts during the pandemic.

Relapse (noun/verb) - a return to a previous undesirable condition or behaviour

After six months of sobriety, he suffered a relapse and returned to his old drinking habits.

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Schooling and education in Spain: A comparative perspective with a focus on the Valencian Community

Spain's education system stands out due to its distinctive structure and rich cultural influences. It consists of several key stages: Infantil for preschool, Primaria for primary education, Secundaria for secondary education, and Bachillerato, which prepares students for university. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, covering both primary and secondary levels. This framework reflects not only the country's commitment to education but also its diverse cultural heritage.

In the Valencian Community, education is deeply shaped by the region's unique linguistic and cultural identity. Here, students learn in both Spanish and Valencian, the local language, showcasing the community's dedication to preserving its linguistic heritage. This bilingual approach is quite different from countries like France, where the national language takes precedence and regional languages receive less institutional backing.

The structure of secondary education in Spain, including the Valencian Community, also sets itself apart from many other European countries. Once students finish Secundaria, they have the option to follow one of two paths: the Bachillerato, which prepares them for university, or vocational training, which leads directly to employment. This division is reminiscent of the German education system, where students are guided toward either academic or vocational tracks based on their skills and interests.

When it comes to assessment (*) or evaluation, Spain utilizes a system of continuous evaluation, allowing students to receive grades throughout the year instead of depending solely on final exams. This method is similar to the practices found in Scandinavian countries, which emphasize formative assessments to enhance student learning.

Additionally, Spain's higher education system is shaped by the Bologna Process, which helps align it with other European universities regarding degree structure and quality standards. However, the shift from secondary to higher education can be quite competitive, as entrance exams play a crucial role in determining university placements, much like the systems in the United Kingdom.

In conclusion, while Spain shares some educational principles with other countries, the Valencian Community's bilingual education, regional identity, dual pathways in secondary education, and continuous assessment methods create a distinctive educational landscape. Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating the complexities of schooling in Spain compared to other nations.

Some related vocabulary: https://langeek.co/en/vocab/subcategory/935/word-list

(*) Assessment refers to the systematic process of evaluating a student's knowledge, skills, abilities, and overall performance in an educational setting. It serves multiple purposes, including measuring student learning, providing feedback, guiding instructional decisions, and ensuring accountability within the education system.

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Understanding cancer: a multifaceted disease

Cancer is a complex, multifaceted disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Its origin is due to a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors, resulting in a wide range of causes. Understanding these underlying factors is essential for effective prevention, early detection and treatment.

At the genetic level, cancer often begins with mutations in the DNA of cells. These mutations can be inherited from parents or acquired throughout life due to various influences. Specific genes, known as oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, are crucial in regulating cell growth and division. When these genes mutate, they can trigger uncontrolled cell proliferation, a defining feature of cancer. In particular, hereditary cancers, such as those linked to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, underline the importance of genetic predisposition in cancer development.

Environmental factors also play an important role in increasing cancer risk. Exposure to carcinogens - substances that can cause cancer - can occur through a variety of channels, including air pollution, radiation and certain chemicals present in industrial environments. For example, prolonged exposure to asbestos is associated with mesothelioma, a specific type of lung cancer. In addition, lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and poor dietary habits can increase the risk of developing cancer. Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogenic substances, making it a major cause of lung cancer and other types of lung malignancies.

In addition, infections can contribute to the development of cancer. Some viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B and C viruses, are known to increase the risk of certain types of cancer. HPV, for example, is a significant contributor to cervical cancer, while hepatitis viruses are linked to liver cancer.

In summary, cancer is a multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. Understanding these causes is vital to developing effective prevention strategies and treatments. As research progresses, it is crucial to promote awareness and encourage healthy lifestyle choices to reduce cancer risk and improve public health outcomes.

Vocabulary related to cancer

Cancer

A disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.

Example: Early detection of cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence of a cell that can result in abnormal cell behaviour.

Example: Gene mutations can be inherited or caused by environmental factors.

Oncogenes

Genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated or expressed at high levels.

Example: Mutations in oncogenes can cause uncontrolled cell division.

Tumour suppressor genes

Genes that help regulate cell growth and prevent tumours from forming.

Example: When tumour suppressor genes mutate, they may no longer control cell proliferation.

Carcinogens

Substances that can cause cancer by causing mutations in DNA.

Example: Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogens that increase the risk of lung cancer.

Proliferation

Rapid increase in the number of cells.

Example: Cancer cells proliferate uncontrollably, causing tumour growth.

Hereditary

Transmission from parent to child through genes.

Example: Some cancers have hereditary components, so family history is an important factor.

Asbestos

A naturally occurring mineral that has been linked to lung cancer and other diseases.

Example: Workers exposed to asbestos have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Malignancy

A term used to describe cancerous growths that can invade and damage surrounding tissues.

Example: The doctor diagnosed a malignant tumour that required immediate treatment.

Infections

The invasion of the body by harmful microorganisms, which can sometimes lead to cancer.

Example: Certain viral infections, such as HPV, are known to increase the risk of cervical cancer.

Awareness

Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact, particularly regarding health issues.

Example: Raising awareness about cancer prevention can lead to healthier lifestyle choices.

Public Health

The science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities.

Example: Public health initiatives aim to reduce cancer risk through education and screening programs.

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The Black markets and economy (a writing exercise)

English with Rachel

The topic for the next class will be ´The black markets and economy´ in Spain and throughout the world. 

Therefore I would like you to write a 200 word essay on this topic, making comparisons between different countries, and any personal experiences that you may have with this topic. 

• Understanding the Black Economy: Definition, Implications, and Strategies - SuperMoney
• What is the black market? — Economy (ecnmy.org)

The writing exercise

The black market and the shadow economy are both parts of the economy that operate outside of the official system.

A black market is a specific type of illegal trade. It involves buying and selling things that are forbidden by law, like drugs, weapons, or endangered animals. These activities are harmful to society and often linked to organized crime.

The shadow economy is a broader term for any economic activity that isn't officially recorded. This can include both legal and illegal actions. On one hand, it might involve people doing small jobs like babysitting or repairing things without paying taxes. On the other hand, it can include serious crimes like human trafficking, selling weapons, drugs or money laundering.

While the shadow economy might sometimes provide a way for people to earn a living, it also has negative consequences. Why? Because it could  reduce the amount of tax money governments collect, which can lead to cuts in public services, such as healthcare and education. Additionally, it can create unfair competition for businesses that operate legally, creating monopolies and oligopolies.

Both, the black market and the shadow economy, are difficult to measure because they are deliberately hidden. Governments and organizations around the world work hard to understand these underground activities and find ways to reduce their impact.

Ultimately, I believe that the shadow economy, at a small level, can help people in stressful economic situations, due to bureaucratic and corrupt styles of government. And I am absolutely certain that most of us have been in that kind of situation.

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Food and social connections, a writing exercise

English with Rachel

Hi,

The topic for the next class is called ´Food and social connections´. and the relationship between eating meals together as a social event such as ´The Valencian paella´.

Therefore, I would like you to write a 200 word essay on this topic, here is some vocabulary to help you:

• How food — yes, food — can be a tool for social change | (ted.com): https://ideas.ted.com/how-food-yes-food-can-be-a-tool-for-social-change/
• Social eating connects communities | University of Oxford: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2017-03-16-social-eating-connects-communities
• Psychology of Food: Bringing People Together | by Greg Morgan | Medium: https://glwest.medium.com/the-psychology-of-food-bringing-people-together-610b8e24c2f7

The writting exercise:

Cooking paella in a group

Cooking in a group is a really wonderful thing to do, because it is fun and creates bonds with family, friends and your local community. It does not really matter the "cooking result": the process will give you satisfaction, communion with the people involved and a feeling of "belonging", not to mention a strong sense of togetherness and well-being.

We could say that these feelings are all due to the oxytocin that our brain creates during the process of this social cooking gathering, but that is only one scientific explanation, not the only one. By nature, we are social beings and we need others to survive and also to be happy and content, despite our current lifestyles, which unfortunately do not help us much in this respect. It is therefore an intelligent social aim, as I see it.

Therefore, cooking a good paella (I prefer 'Valencian') is a great way to foster those bonds with co-workers, family or friends.T he process of cooking is a lot of fun, although, sometimes stressful. It's a perfect excuse for a good social gathering, with a nutritious and delicious result. 

Eating and drinking (perhaps sometimes too much) a traditional dish like Paella Valenciana will surely connect you with your childhood and remembrances. Above all, being in good company and sharing time and special moments with your loved ones is really a luxury in these times of speed, competitiveness and lack of social bonds. So try it!

More links related to:

- Breaking Bread: the Functions of Social Eating - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40750-017-0061-4

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Dénia: My favourite magical little 'city' on the Mediterranean coast

English with Rachel: A writing exercise about Dénia

In the heart of the Mediterranean lies Dénia (Alicante), a city where time continues to whisper stories of ancient civilisations. From the Iberians to the Greeks, from the Romans to the Arabs, each era has woven its thread into the rich fabric of Dénia. The town's Moorish castle stands as a guardian of history, while the Ethnological Museum houses the cultural jewels of bygone eras. But there is more, much more...

A climate kissed by the sea

Dénia enjoys the embrace of a Mediterranean climate, where the winters are a soft caress and the summers, a passionate embrace, perhaps too passionate for me... With an annual temperature of around 18°C, the city dances in the rain during the autumn showers. I am a ‘witness’ to this climatic condition...

Fire and sea festivals

When the March breeze brings the smell of gunpowder, Dénia lights up with Las Fallas Festival (like in Valencia), painting the sky with flames of joy. In July, the Bous a la Mar celebrate the goodness of the sea. Since 2015, the town's culinary artistry has earned it the title of UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, home to the 3 Michelin-starred delights of chef Quique Dacosta.

Discovering Dénia

Dénia invites you to stroll along the beach of Les Marines, where the blue line of the sea beckons you. Climb up to the historic castle to enjoy a marvellous view of the town, the mountains and the coast. Stroll through the Montgó Natural Park, a mosaic of flora and fauna. Travel back in time at the Ethnological Museum. Taste the Dénia prawns, a treasure of the sea (although I don't like seafood, sorry...). And immerse yourself in the local spirit of its lively fiestas. And don't forget ‘Las rotas’, a magical, if increasingly crowded, natural space...

The bad news: Dénia is becoming more and more overcrowded with tourists every year. It's a pity, because the flavour of this marvellous small Mediterranean town fades with the passing of time. In any case, it is worth to visit Dénia, and maybe, to live there...

And here you have more pictures of Dénia:

And now, some links about holidays and Dénia:

Holidays: https://esldiscussions.com/h/holidays.html
Dénia, wikipedia: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denia
Living in Dénia, Spain: My Expat Experince + Pros and Cons: https://manymoremaps.com/living-in-denia-spain/

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