The Indian Men's Hockey Team will begin its FIH Hockey Pro League 2022/23 campaign against New Zealand and Spain as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced the schedule of the fourth edition of the tournament on Thursday.

India will host New Zealand and Spain in the tournament opener between October 28 and November 6 later this year.

The season, which will run from October 28, 2022, to July 5, 2023, will be divided into a series of date blocks, agreed by all parties, to assist with international and domestic competition planning, within which "mini-tournaments" will be played where several teams will gather in one venue to play two matches against each other.

This move will have a major positive impact on players'&nbsp;welfare and the environment, thanks to a substantial reduction in the amount of travel needed for each team and the officials.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-open-pv-sindhu-ashwini-ponnappa-n-sikki-reddy-advances-to-second-round-arjun-kapila-crashes-out-465118">Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, Ashwini Ponnappa-N Sikki Reddy advances to second round; Arjun-Kapila crashes out</a>

Another great advantage of this revised format is that it increases the number of dates available for athletes to compete in their domestic leagues and club competitions.

The Indian team will play New Zealand in the first match on October 28, followed by the second match against Spain on October 30.

They will play their return leg matches against New Zealand and Spain on November 4 and 6, respectively.

Both the visitors New Zealand and Spain will also play a doubleheader against each other on October 29 and November 5.

Sharing his thoughts on the FIH Pro League 2022/23 schedule, the Indian Men's Hockey Chief Coach Graham Reid stated, "Interesting to see the 22-23 Pro League schedule released today. As far as our draw is concerned, it is well spaced out and provides us with practice opportunity before the 2023 World Cup."

In March 2023, India will play Germany and Australia at home. They will face off against Germany on March 10 and after a day's break they will take on Australia in their first match of the two-legged tie.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-nick-kyrgios-storms-into-second-round-naomi-osaka-wins-first-match-since-heckling-incident-465131">Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident</a>

The second-leg matches against both Germany and Australia will be played on March 13 and 15 respectively. Germany and Australia too will play their FIH Pro League tie against each other in India.

In what appears to be an action-paced Olympic cycle, India will tour to Europe in May and June 2023 for their away matches against the teams like reigning Olympic Champions Belgium (May 26 and June 2), Great Britain (May 27 and June 3), Netherlands (June 7 and 10) and Argentina (June 8 and 11).

Reid opined that it's good development of utilising multiple teams in one location."FIH is using the experience of utilising multiple teams in one location from this year, to provide more of a traditional tournament feel.

I think it's is a good development. This will also provide a different tactical preparation between games where traditionally the games against the same team are back to back," he said.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team will begin its FIH Hockey Pro League 2022/23 campaign against New Zealand and Spain as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced the schedule of the fourth edition of the tournament on Thursday.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team will begin its FIH Hockey Pro League 2022/23 campaign against New Zealand and Spain as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced the schedule of the fourth edition of the tournament on Thursday. India will host New Zealand and Spain in the tournament opener between October 28 and November 6 later this year. The season, which will run from October 28, 2022, to July 5, 2023, will be divided into a series of date blocks, agreed by all parties, to assist with international and domestic competition planning, within which "mini-tournaments" will be played where several teams will gather in one venue to play two matches against each other. This move will have a major positive impact on players' welfare and the environment, thanks to a substantial reduction in the amount of travel needed for each team and the officials. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, Ashwini Ponnappa-N Sikki Reddy advances to second round; Arjun-Kapila crashes out Another great advantage of this revised format is that it increases the number of dates available for athletes to compete in their domestic leagues and club competitions. The Indian team will play New Zealand in the first match on October 28, followed by the second match against Spain on October 30. They will play their return leg matches against New Zealand and Spain on November 4 and 6, respectively. Both the visitors New Zealand and Spain will also play a doubleheader against each other on October 29 and November 5. Sharing his thoughts on the FIH Pro League 2022/23 schedule, the Indian Men's Hockey Chief Coach Graham Reid stated, "Interesting to see the 22-23 Pro League schedule released today. As far as our draw is concerned, it is well spaced out and provides us with practice opportunity before the 2023 World Cup." In March 2023, India will play Germany and Australia at home. They will face off against Germany on March 10 and after a day's break they will take on Australia in their first match of the two-legged tie. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident The second-leg matches against both Germany and Australia will be played on March 13 and 15 respectively. Germany and Australia too will play their FIH Pro League tie against each other in India. In what appears to be an action-paced Olympic cycle, India will tour to Europe in May and June 2023 for their away matches against the teams like reigning Olympic Champions Belgium (May 26 and June 2), Great Britain (May 27 and June 3), Netherlands (June 7 and 10) and Argentina (June 8 and 11). Reid opined that it's good development of utilising multiple teams in one location."FIH is using the experience of utilising multiple teams in one location from this year, to provide more of a traditional tournament feel. I think it's is a good development. This will also provide a different tactical preparation between games where traditionally the games against the same team are back to back," he said.

India to host New Zealand, Spain in opening ties of FIH Hockey Pro League 2022-23

Thousands of people are protesting in Spain demanding tax cuts and reforms amid the ongoing economic crisis. Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez is also under constant pressure to cut taxes.

Protests in Spain: Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez under pressure to cut taxes

We often think ancient shipwrecks are found deep in sea but what if one is found just 50 metres from a busy beach? A roman-era merchant ship had sunk 1700 years ago. The shipwreck lay just 50 metres from a now-busy beach near Mallorca, Spain but it went undetected...for centuries.

Roman boat sinks 1700 years ago, remains undetected just 50 metres from a beach

Sky in a Spain city turned orange/red with dust & red rust visible in the streets. The entire city of Malaga was in Orange shade and the National Air Quality listed parts of Spain as “extremely unfavourable”. Why?

‘Raining sand’: Why this Spain city turned orange

In a bid to stop the promotion of unhealthy food and drink, Spain has announced that it will be banning influencers, TV presenters and sports stars that advertise such products to children.&nbsp;

The ban would apply to items such as chocolate, cakes, biscuits, energy bars, juices, energy drinks and ice creams.

In its draft decree, Spain’s consumer affairs ministry said, "The ban would prohibit appearances in commercial communications by parents, educators, teachers, children’s TV professionals, sportspeople, artists, influencers, and people or characters – be they real or fictional – who may, by dint of their careers, be likely to represent a model or example for these minors."

As per the proposals, people who are in a position to influence children would be prohibited from marketing food or drink that is high in sugar, sodium, salt or fat.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sherri-papini-the-jogger-whose-kidnapping-hoax-cost-taxpayers-200000-released-on-bail-460494">Also read |&nbsp;Sherri Papini, the jogger whose kidnapping hoax cost taxpayers $200,000, released on bail</a>

The proposals have now been put out for public consultation.&nbsp;

The ministry states influencer as “a person with a high level of influence over children and young people because of their large number of followers on social or digital media, and who interacts through messages on networks, blogs, posts, videos or similar media."

Apart from this, influencers will also be approached to participate in educational and public health campaigns to promote “physical activity and health, sustainable and responsible eating habits”.

This comes a few months after Spain’s consumer affairs minister, Alberto Garzón, said he would ban advertisements for unhealthy foods.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to stop the promotion of unhealthy food and drink, Spain has announced that it will be banning influencers, TV presenters and sports stars that advertise such products to children.

In a bid to stop the promotion of unhealthy food and drink, Spain has announced that it will be banning influencers, TV presenters and sports stars that advertise such products to children. The ban would apply to items such as chocolate, cakes, biscuits, energy bars, juices, energy drinks and ice creams. In its draft decree, Spain’s consumer affairs ministry said, "The ban would prohibit appearances in commercial communications by parents, educators, teachers, children’s TV professionals, sportspeople, artists, influencers, and people or characters – be they real or fictional – who may, by dint of their careers, be likely to represent a model or example for these minors." As per the proposals, people who are in a position to influence children would be prohibited from marketing food or drink that is high in sugar, sodium, salt or fat. Also read | Sherri Papini, the jogger whose kidnapping hoax cost taxpayers $200,000, released on bail The proposals have now been put out for public consultation. The ministry states influencer as “a person with a high level of influence over children and young people because of their large number of followers on social or digital media, and who interacts through messages on networks, blogs, posts, videos or similar media." Apart from this, influencers will also be approached to participate in educational and public health campaigns to promote “physical activity and health, sustainable and responsible eating habits”. This comes a few months after Spain’s consumer affairs minister, Alberto Garzón, said he would ban advertisements for unhealthy foods. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain to ban influencers promoting unhealthy foods to children

Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso have resumed training after missing the last two matches due to injury and COVID-19 respectively, the Premier League club said.

Club captain Azpilicueta suffered an injury in Chelsea's League Cup defeat by Liverpool. He missed their 3-2 FA Cup win over Luton Town last week and the 4-0 rout of Burnley in the league over the weekend.

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Alonso was also ruled out of both matches due to COVID-19 but the pair have returned to full fitness and trained on Monday ahead of Thursday's league visit to Norwich City and Sunday's game at home against Newcastle United.

Chelsea are third in the table with 53 points from 26 matches, 10 points behind second-placed Liverpool and 16 adrift of leaders Manchester City, who both have games in hand.

Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso have resumed training after missing the last two matches due to injury and COVID-19 respectively, the Premier League club said.

Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso have resumed training after missing the last two matches due to injury and COVID-19 respectively, the Premier League club said. Club captain Azpilicueta suffered an injury in Chelsea's League Cup defeat by Liverpool. He missed their 3-2 FA Cup win over Luton Town last week and the 4-0 rout of Burnley in the league over the weekend. ALSO READ: Champions League: Liverpool's Juergen Klopp warns against complacency ahead of Inter second leg Alonso was also ruled out of both matches due to COVID-19 but the pair have returned to full fitness and trained on Monday ahead of Thursday's league visit to Norwich City and Sunday's game at home against Newcastle United. Chelsea are third in the table with 53 points from 26 matches, 10 points behind second-placed Liverpool and 16 adrift of leaders Manchester City, who both have games in hand.

Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso resume training after injury, illness

It took one electricity bill to crush Dimitris Diavatis' hopes that his Greek summer resort could bounce back to its pre-pandemic health this year, even with bookings pouring in.

The amount was more than double what he paid this time last year when the hotel was not even open. After two sluggish summers, the irony was not lost on him: "We won't make a profit in a good year," he said. "It'll be eaten up by inflation."

Greece - like the other&nbsp;tourism-dependent economies on the euro zone's Mediterranean fringe – is seeing signs of a much-needed recovery in visitor numbers in 2022 after two largely lost years. As in Spain, Portugal and Italy, the sector is a huge employer and contributor to state revenues.

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But across the region, the pandemic has changed the&nbsp;face&nbsp;of&nbsp;tourism. Hotels were already grappling with higher fuel bills and inflation which a further energy price surge in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine will only make worse.

The dislocation of labour markets caused by COVID-19 has left entrenched staffing shortages, while Italian tourist officials concede that pandemic-era holidaying – with its emphasis on hygiene, cleanliness and space – is a big challenge for its ageing infrastructure.

Meanwhile, a market for more modest, small-scale vacations is opening up: In Spain and Portugal, a reluctance among many tourists to travel far is accentuating the trend for stays in rural areas in tents, campers or motorhomes.Industry and government officials in Greece are forecasting revenues will reach 80-90% of the record seen in 2019, when 33 million tourists brought in 18 billion euros in revenues, worth a fifth of national output.

Yet a bumper season is unlikely to offer much relief to struggling businesses which emerged from a decade-long financial crisis in 2018 only to have the pandemic bring global travel to a halt two years later.

So acute is the problem of soaring heating oil, gas and electricity prices that the president of the Greek&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;confederation SETE, Yiannis Retsos, wrote to ministers in January urging them to provide financial support, saying it was "objectively impossible" for year-round hotels to the cover their costs, especially after the quieter winter months.

The highly indebted countries of&nbsp;Europe's south were also bracing for the&nbsp;European Central Bank to remove the stimulus that has kept their borrowing costs down.

Although the Ukraine war has left the interest rate outlook uncertain, the&nbsp;southern&nbsp;fringe still badly needs its&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;sectors to get back to work given the economic hit the conflict is set to deliver.

Speaking a day after the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation", Greece's Retsos said it was too early to gauge its impact on the&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;sector.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/radio-free-europe-with-roots-in-the-cold-war-suspends-operations-in-russia-459548">Radio Free Europe, with roots in the Cold War, suspends operations in Russia</a>

More than a week into the conflict, there has been no noticeable increase in cancellations across the region.

Russian tourists only make up a very small proportion of the sector in&nbsp;southern&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;- 2% of revenues in Greece in 2019 and around 1% of nightly hotel bookings in Portugal. Turkey - outside the&nbsp;European Union - is a more popular destination.

But with&nbsp;European gas prices already at record highs, and this likely to feed into inflation globally, the concern in countries like Greece is the conflict will only worsen an already bleak outlook, further crimping guests' spending power and increasing providers' costs.

NO END TO COSTS

Even hotels that were shut during winter worry they will not be able to shoulder the extra burden, having already agreed prices with tour operators last summer, said Babbis Voulgaris, head of the Corfu hoteliers' association.

Resort owner Diavatis, who also owns a year-round boutique hotel and a waterpark complex on the island, agreed.

"This will be a real crisis for us," he said. "I won't say it's worse than the pandemic because at least we're open. But we didn't lose money then. Now we're heading towards losing money."

The Greek government has spent over 42 billion euros in pandemic support measures since 2020 to keep businesses and households afloat and about 2 billion euros since September to subsidise power bills through March. For hoteliers, the support does not go far enough.

"In the summer, with the air-conditioners working, the refrigerators, the kitchen, everything - I don't how when this will end," said Costas Merianos, who owns a small family-run hotel on Corfu's Ionian coast.

Across the sea in Italy, lockdowns and energy prices have forced many hotels to shut for good, said Marina Lalli, president of the Federturismo industry association.

And while Lalli was hopeful&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;could inch closer to 2019 levels this year, Italy&nbsp;faces the additional problem of being "a mature tourist destination with mature hotel structures that need to be renewed," she said.

"In the post-COVID era, tourists are even more attentive to quality, they want a guarantee of cleanliness and want to feel safe."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/invading-russian-military-forces-belt-maker-to-weave-camouflage-webbing-for-ukrainian-troops-459565">Invading Russian military forces belt-maker to weave camouflage webbing for Ukrainian troops</a>

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Greece said it was opening its&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;season as early as March 1 this year to meet demand but, like in Italy, Spain and Portugal, the season will not begin in earnest until the Easter break in April, a litmus test before the vital summer months.

Both Greece and Italy are racing to fill job shortages as the pandemic forced workers abroad for better paying jobs or into different sectors with less uncertain prospects.

In Greece, the&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;minister even appealed to refugees fleeing Ukraine, offering them residence and work permits to fill 50,000 job gaps in hospitality.

Demand for Spanish holidays was looking very strong this year, according to the vice-president of industry association Exceltur, Jose Luis Zoreda, thanks to Spain's high vaccination rates and the easing of pandemic restrictions in its big markets, the UK and Germany.

"There is a strong, accumulated travel appetite in&nbsp;Europe," Zoreda said, forecasting an "explosion" of&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;from Easter onwards, but also lower profit margins due to inflation and energy prices.

Exceltur, however, also found tourists were seeking a different experience. In 2021, campsite rentals were up 19.2%, flat rentals were up by 16%, rural homes by 11%. Hotel usage fell by 8%, a decline also driven by fewer business trips.

In January, new motorhomes and camper vans sales were up 34.1% on an annual basis, according to the Spanish Association of the Caravanning Industry and Trade (ASEICAR).

"The 'all-in-one' holiday model has been left behind," Yescapa, an online motorhomes and camper vans rental company, told Reuters.

Nico Aro, who rents out a camper van on the island of Tenerife, says he has not been able to enjoy it himself since he bought it last March because requests keep coming in from Italy, France and Belgium. His biggest problem is that he cannot find another one to buy because they are in great demand.

"I have benefited from the pandemic," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-creates-national-park-to-save-glaciers-459542">Chile creates national park to save glaciers</a>

The appetite for "slower"&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;has also grown in Portugal, where the sector played a crucial role in its recovery from the 2010 debt crisis.&nbsp;Tourism&nbsp;stood at about 15% of GDP in 2019 but fell to 8% in 2020.

"There's an increasing number of people looking for places with fewer people," said Helder Martins, president of Algarve's main hotel association. "I don't believe that they will return to just wanting the sun and the beach."&nbsp;

The centuries-old "schist villages", built from the stone of a mountainous region clad in pine trees, are roaring back to life after being abandoned over the years by young Portuguese seeking work elsewhere.

"This summer is filling up fast," said Sonia Cortes, who owns a small five-room hotel in the Janeiro de Cima schist village, where construction workers are rebuilding traditional houses.

"The beginning of the pandemic was really difficult for those who lived off&nbsp;tourism," she said. "(But then) those in bigger cities looked for villages like this one where they could feel safe."

There was a 30% increase in the number of night stays at schist villages from 2019 to 2020-21, said Bruno Ramos, who works for an agency promoting&nbsp;tourism&nbsp;there.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Europe's largest nuke site was on fire

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-europes-largest-nuke-site-was-on-fire-459083/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Still, back in Greece, Merianos, the Corfu hotel owner, has a more sober view of the months ahead.

"I'll be happy if at the end of the season I don't owe my staff, I don't owe the state, I don't owe the energy provider - even if I'm left with 10 euros in my wallet," he said.

It took one electricity bill to crush Dimitris Diavatis' hopes that his Greek summer resort could bounce back to its pre-pandemic health this year, even with bookings pouring in.

It took one electricity bill to crush Dimitris Diavatis' hopes that his Greek summer resort could bounce back to its pre-pandemic health this year, even with bookings pouring in. The amount was more than double what he paid this time last year when the hotel was not even open. After two sluggish summers, the irony was not lost on him: "We won't make a profit in a good year," he said. "It'll be eaten up by inflation." Greece - like the other tourism-dependent economies on the euro zone's Mediterranean fringe – is seeing signs of a much-needed recovery in visitor numbers in 2022 after two largely lost years. As in Spain, Portugal and Italy, the sector is a huge employer and contributor to state revenues. Also read | London: Hundreds of women march in a bid to end violence and misogyny But across the region, the pandemic has changed the face of tourism. Hotels were already grappling with higher fuel bills and inflation which a further energy price surge in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine will only make worse. The dislocation of labour markets caused by COVID-19 has left entrenched staffing shortages, while Italian tourist officials concede that pandemic-era holidaying – with its emphasis on hygiene, cleanliness and space – is a big challenge for its ageing infrastructure. Meanwhile, a market for more modest, small-scale vacations is opening up: In Spain and Portugal, a reluctance among many tourists to travel far is accentuating the trend for stays in rural areas in tents, campers or motorhomes.Industry and government officials in Greece are forecasting revenues will reach 80-90% of the record seen in 2019, when 33 million tourists brought in 18 billion euros in revenues, worth a fifth of national output. Yet a bumper season is unlikely to offer much relief to struggling businesses which emerged from a decade-long financial crisis in 2018 only to have the pandemic bring global travel to a halt two years later. So acute is the problem of soaring heating oil, gas and electricity prices that the president of the Greek tourism confederation SETE, Yiannis Retsos, wrote to ministers in January urging them to provide financial support, saying it was "objectively impossible" for year-round hotels to the cover their costs, especially after the quieter winter months. The highly indebted countries of Europe's south were also bracing for the European Central Bank to remove the stimulus that has kept their borrowing costs down. Although the Ukraine war has left the interest rate outlook uncertain, the southern fringe still badly needs its tourism sectors to get back to work given the economic hit the conflict is set to deliver. Speaking a day after the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation", Greece's Retsos said it was too early to gauge its impact on the tourism sector. Also read | Radio Free Europe, with roots in the Cold War, suspends operations in Russia More than a week into the conflict, there has been no noticeable increase in cancellations across the region. Russian tourists only make up a very small proportion of the sector in southern Europe - 2% of revenues in Greece in 2019 and around 1% of nightly hotel bookings in Portugal. Turkey - outside the European Union - is a more popular destination. But with European gas prices already at record highs, and this likely to feed into inflation globally, the concern in countries like Greece is the conflict will only worsen an already bleak outlook, further crimping guests' spending power and increasing providers' costs. NO END TO COSTS Even hotels that were shut during winter worry they will not be able to shoulder the extra burden, having already agreed prices with tour operators last summer, said Babbis Voulgaris, head of the Corfu hoteliers' association. Resort owner Diavatis, who also owns a year-round boutique hotel and a waterpark complex on the island, agreed. "This will be a real crisis for us," he said. "I won't say it's worse than the pandemic because at least we're open. But we didn't lose money then. Now we're heading towards losing money." The Greek government has spent over 42 billion euros in pandemic support measures since 2020 to keep businesses and households afloat and about 2 billion euros since September to subsidise power bills through March. For hoteliers, the support does not go far enough. "In the summer, with the air-conditioners working, the refrigerators, the kitchen, everything - I don't how when this will end," said Costas Merianos, who owns a small family-run hotel on Corfu's Ionian coast. Across the sea in Italy, lockdowns and energy prices have forced many hotels to shut for good, said Marina Lalli, president of the Federturismo industry association. And while Lalli was hopeful tourism could inch closer to 2019 levels this year, Italy faces the additional problem of being "a mature tourist destination with mature hotel structures that need to be renewed," she said. "In the post-COVID era, tourists are even more attentive to quality, they want a guarantee of cleanliness and want to feel safe." Also read | Invading Russian military forces belt-maker to weave camouflage webbing for Ukrainian troops SOMETHING DIFFERENT Greece said it was opening its tourism season as early as March 1 this year to meet demand but, like in Italy, Spain and Portugal, the season will not begin in earnest until the Easter break in April, a litmus test before the vital summer months. Both Greece and Italy are racing to fill job shortages as the pandemic forced workers abroad for better paying jobs or into different sectors with less uncertain prospects. In Greece, the tourism minister even appealed to refugees fleeing Ukraine, offering them residence and work permits to fill 50,000 job gaps in hospitality. Demand for Spanish holidays was looking very strong this year, according to the vice-president of industry association Exceltur, Jose Luis Zoreda, thanks to Spain's high vaccination rates and the easing of pandemic restrictions in its big markets, the UK and Germany. "There is a strong, accumulated travel appetite in Europe," Zoreda said, forecasting an "explosion" of tourism from Easter onwards, but also lower profit margins due to inflation and energy prices. Exceltur, however, also found tourists were seeking a different experience. In 2021, campsite rentals were up 19.2%, flat rentals were up by 16%, rural homes by 11%. Hotel usage fell by 8%, a decline also driven by fewer business trips. In January, new motorhomes and camper vans sales were up 34.1% on an annual basis, according to the Spanish Association of the Caravanning Industry and Trade (ASEICAR). "The 'all-in-one' holiday model has been left behind," Yescapa, an online motorhomes and camper vans rental company, told Reuters. Nico Aro, who rents out a camper van on the island of Tenerife, says he has not been able to enjoy it himself since he bought it last March because requests keep coming in from Italy, France and Belgium. His biggest problem is that he cannot find another one to buy because they are in great demand. "I have benefited from the pandemic," he said. Also read | Chile creates national park to save glaciers The appetite for "slower" tourism has also grown in Portugal, where the sector played a crucial role in its recovery from the 2010 debt crisis. Tourism stood at about 15% of GDP in 2019 but fell to 8% in 2020. "There's an increasing number of people looking for places with fewer people," said Helder Martins, president of Algarve's main hotel association. "I don't believe that they will return to just wanting the sun and the beach." The centuries-old "schist villages", built from the stone of a mountainous region clad in pine trees, are roaring back to life after being abandoned over the years by young Portuguese seeking work elsewhere. "This summer is filling up fast," said Sonia Cortes, who owns a small five-room hotel in the Janeiro de Cima schist village, where construction workers are rebuilding traditional houses. "The beginning of the pandemic was really difficult for those who lived off tourism," she said. "(But then) those in bigger cities looked for villages like this one where they could feel safe." There was a 30% increase in the number of night stays at schist villages from 2019 to 2020-21, said Bruno Ramos, who works for an agency promoting tourism there. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Europe's largest nuke site was on fire Still, back in Greece, Merianos, the Corfu hotel owner, has a more sober view of the months ahead. "I'll be happy if at the end of the season I don't owe my staff, I don't owe the state, I don't owe the energy provider - even if I'm left with 10 euros in my wallet," he said.

Southern Europe grapples with changing face of tourism

Two years after winning his first tour-level match in Rio de Janeiro, 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz of Spain became the youngest to clinch an ATP 500 title at the same event on Sunday when he defeated Diego Schwartzman in the final of the Rio Open.

It was a second tour-level title for Alcaraz after his victory in Umag last year and his 6-4 6-2 victory against 13th-ranked Argentine Schwartzman made him the youngest ATP 500 champion since the category was created in 2009.

"I can't believe it, honestly. It has been a great week for me playing a great level," Alcaraz said on court after his win.

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"First tournament on clay since a long time, so I'm really happy with the performance during the whole week. It`s an amazing feeling right now."

Alcaraz, who won the NextGen ATP Finals in 2021, came into Sunday's final after having to play both his quarter-final and last four matches on Saturday because of a scheduling logjam due to rain earlier in the week.

He defeated top seed and world number six Matteo Berrettini and another Italian Fabio Fognini, a former top 10 player, and climbed to a career-best 20th when the ATP rankings were updated on Monday.

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"It has been a tough week," said Alcaraz, who withdrew from this week's ATP 500 tournament on the hardcourts in Acapulco, Mexico, due to a slight niggle.

"To be in the top 20 was a goal for me at the end of the year (2021) and to be able to do that at the beginning is amazing."

Two years after winning his first tour-level match in Rio de Janeiro, 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz of Spain became the youngest to clinch an ATP 500 title at the same event on Sunday when he defeated Diego Schwartzman in the final of the Rio Open.

Two years after winning his first tour-level match in Rio de Janeiro, 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz of Spain became the youngest to clinch an ATP 500 title at the same event on Sunday when he defeated Diego Schwartzman in the final of the Rio Open. It was a second tour-level title for Alcaraz after his victory in Umag last year and his 6-4 6-2 victory against 13th-ranked Argentine Schwartzman made him the youngest ATP 500 champion since the category was created in 2009. "I can't believe it, honestly. It has been a great week for me playing a great level," Alcaraz said on court after his win. ALSO READ: Australian golfer Hannah Green creates history, becomes first woman to win mixed-gender event "First tournament on clay since a long time, so I'm really happy with the performance during the whole week. It`s an amazing feeling right now." Alcaraz, who won the NextGen ATP Finals in 2021, came into Sunday's final after having to play both his quarter-final and last four matches on Saturday because of a scheduling logjam due to rain earlier in the week. He defeated top seed and world number six Matteo Berrettini and another Italian Fabio Fognini, a former top 10 player, and climbed to a career-best 20th when the ATP rankings were updated on Monday. ALSO READ: Will lead to positive outcomes for world sports: PM Narendra Modi on Mumbai hosting 2023 IOC session "It has been a tough week," said Alcaraz, who withdrew from this week's ATP 500 tournament on the hardcourts in Acapulco, Mexico, due to a slight niggle. "To be in the top 20 was a goal for me at the end of the year (2021) and to be able to do that at the beginning is amazing."

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz creates history, becomes youngest ATP 500 winner with Rio title

A Spanish fishing boat carrying 24 people sank hundreds of miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, early Tuesday, leaving at least four people dead and more than a dozen missing, according to Spanish maritime officials.

Three people were rescued by another fishing boat that was nearby when the 164-foot vessel, called the Villa de Pitanxo, sank, Spain’s maritime rescue service said in a statement.

The survivors had made it into a life raft, which also held the bodies of four members of the crew of the boat, which was based in Marín, a town in Galicia, in northwestern Spain.

The sinking was “a tragedy on a scale that we cannot remember,” María Ramallo, the mayor of Marín, told reporters.

Search and rescue crews had encountered rough water, reduced visibility and windy conditions at sea, Spanish officials said.

The boat was carrying 16 Spaniards, five Peruvians and three Ghanaians, according to the rescue service. The boat sank about 280 miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Spanish officials said on Twitter.

Two helicopters, a plane, and Spanish and Portuguese fishing boats were involved in the search, officials said.

The Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Halifax, Nova Scotia, said it received an emergency signal just after midnight Tuesday from a fishing vessel east of St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. A helicopter, another aircraft and several vessels were deployed.

“The search continues for the remaining crew and we remain hopeful of finding them,” the rescue center said on Twitter. “The fishing boat has not been found.”

“We remain distressed by the terrible news out of Canada about the sinking of the Villa de Pitanxo,” Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the regional president of Galicia, said on Twitter. “We are making available to the government and the shipowner all the help they need.”

Maica Larriba, a local official in Galicia, said Tuesday that contact with the vessel was lost around 5 a.m. in Spain.

In a separate news conference, Isabel Rodríguez García, the minister for territorial policy and the spokesperson of the Spanish government, confirmed the rescue of three crew members, but said she could not comment further.

“We are following with worry and preoccupation the rescue operations,” she said

The boat was built in 2004, according to Vesselfinder, a website for tracking marine traffic.

The ship’s owner is a fishing company, Grupo Nores, that specializes in fishing cod, dog fish and other species found in the North Atlantic, according to Spanish media reports.

In Marín and other nearby towns where crew members lived, relatives waited anxiously for more news about their loved ones on Tuesday.

Elisabeth Calderón, the aunt of one of the sailors, Jonathan Calderón, told local reporters that his ship had been at sea for over a month. Jonathan Calderón has a wife and two adolescent children, his aunt said.

His wife was travelling when the shipwreck occurred, she said.

“Imagine when the family found out,” Elisabeth Calderón said.

Carlos Ordóñez, a sailor whose nephew was on board the ship, said the family was “completely overwhelmed.”

“We don’t know if they are alive or dead,” he said.

A Spanish fishing boat carrying 24 people sank hundreds of miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, early Tuesday, leaving at least four people dead and more than a dozen missing, according to Spanish maritime officials.

A Spanish fishing boat carrying 24 people sank hundreds of miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, early Tuesday, leaving at least four people dead and more than a dozen missing, according to Spanish maritime officials. Three people were rescued by another fishing boat that was nearby when the 164-foot vessel, called the Villa de Pitanxo, sank, Spain’s maritime rescue service said in a statement. The survivors had made it into a life raft, which also held the bodies of four members of the crew of the boat, which was based in Marín, a town in Galicia, in northwestern Spain. The sinking was “a tragedy on a scale that we cannot remember,” María Ramallo, the mayor of Marín, told reporters. Search and rescue crews had encountered rough water, reduced visibility and windy conditions at sea, Spanish officials said. The boat was carrying 16 Spaniards, five Peruvians and three Ghanaians, according to the rescue service. The boat sank about 280 miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Spanish officials said on Twitter. Two helicopters, a plane, and Spanish and Portuguese fishing boats were involved in the search, officials said. The Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Halifax, Nova Scotia, said it received an emergency signal just after midnight Tuesday from a fishing vessel east of St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. A helicopter, another aircraft and several vessels were deployed. “The search continues for the remaining crew and we remain hopeful of finding them,” the rescue center said on Twitter. “The fishing boat has not been found.” “We remain distressed by the terrible news out of Canada about the sinking of the Villa de Pitanxo,” Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the regional president of Galicia, said on Twitter. “We are making available to the government and the shipowner all the help they need.” Maica Larriba, a local official in Galicia, said Tuesday that contact with the vessel was lost around 5 a.m. in Spain. In a separate news conference, Isabel Rodríguez García, the minister for territorial policy and the spokesperson of the Spanish government, confirmed the rescue of three crew members, but said she could not comment further. “We are following with worry and preoccupation the rescue operations,” she said The boat was built in 2004, according to Vesselfinder, a website for tracking marine traffic. The ship’s owner is a fishing company, Grupo Nores, that specializes in fishing cod, dog fish and other species found in the North Atlantic, according to Spanish media reports. In Marín and other nearby towns where crew members lived, relatives waited anxiously for more news about their loved ones on Tuesday. Elisabeth Calderón, the aunt of one of the sailors, Jonathan Calderón, told local reporters that his ship had been at sea for over a month. Jonathan Calderón has a wife and two adolescent children, his aunt said. His wife was travelling when the shipwreck occurred, she said. “Imagine when the family found out,” Elisabeth Calderón said. Carlos Ordóñez, a sailor whose nephew was on board the ship, said the family was “completely overwhelmed.” “We don’t know if they are alive or dead,” he said.

4 dead and many missing after Spanish fishing vessel sinks in Atlantic

At least 290 migrants heaved a sigh of relief after the Spanish coast guard rescued the people trying to get to the Canary Islands. Most of the migrants were from Morocco.

At least 290 migrants rescued in Spain near Canary Islands

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said.

The incident took place on Tuesday evening in a rural area just outside Elche, about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the southeastern port city of Alicante, reports AFP.

The police were informed only on Friday after a relative who came to check up on them discovered the three lying in a poll of blood near their house’s shed.

Local and national police officers, as well as a team of psychologists, arrived at the scene which was cordoned off on Friday, Spanish media reported.

"The woman’s sister came to the house because she had heard nothing from the family and that's when her nephew told her he'd killed his father, mother and brother," a police spokesperson told AFP.

Autopsies on the victims are scheduled to take place on Saturday.

The 15-year-old minor was then arrested by police after he was found alone in the house with the bodies for three days.

Spanish newspaper El Pais citing sources said that while confessing to the crime, the teenager displayed “unusual coldness, without expressing remorse” at any time.

He told them he had “argued with his mother over his school grades” and then used his father's hunting rifle to kill her, then his 10-year-old brother and lastly his father.

The mayor of the city has announced three-day mourning for the relatives of the deceased.

Spanish media reported on Friday that the teenager would be taken to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office where he would be assigned a defence attorney. He will be placed in a reform centre for minors.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said.

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said. The incident took place on Tuesday evening in a rural area just outside Elche, about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the southeastern port city of Alicante, reports AFP. The police were informed only on Friday after a relative who came to check up on them discovered the three lying in a poll of blood near their house’s shed. Local and national police officers, as well as a team of psychologists, arrived at the scene which was cordoned off on Friday, Spanish media reported. "The woman’s sister came to the house because she had heard nothing from the family and that's when her nephew told her he'd killed his father, mother and brother," a police spokesperson told AFP. Autopsies on the victims are scheduled to take place on Saturday. The 15-year-old minor was then arrested by police after he was found alone in the house with the bodies for three days. Spanish newspaper El Pais citing sources said that while confessing to the crime, the teenager displayed “unusual coldness, without expressing remorse” at any time. He told them he had “argued with his mother over his school grades” and then used his father's hunting rifle to kill her, then his 10-year-old brother and lastly his father. The mayor of the city has announced three-day mourning for the relatives of the deceased. Spanish media reported on Friday that the teenager would be taken to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office where he would be assigned a defence attorney. He will be placed in a reform centre for minors. (With inputs from agencies)

15-year-old Spanish boy mercilessly kills parents, 10-year-old brother in argument over bad grades

Drought is generally known to bring numerous issues and trigger exodus of people but seldom has it led to the rise of a village. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Well, this unique development has occurred for real in Spain. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What’s more special is that it is a ghost village. &nbsp;

After a dam on the Spanish-Portuguese border emptied due to drought, a village, which was flooded in 1992 during the creation of the Alto Lindoso reservoir, has emerged. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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It has now become a tourist attraction. The people can witness life, which got frozen in 1992. &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2741090e-c8c6-4359-a701-faccf9ff773c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ghost%20%281%29.jpg" />

The Aceredo village in north-western Galicia region of Spain was flooded to create the Alto Lindoso reservoir.&nbsp;It is now at 15% of its capacity. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-planning-to-blow-up-virtual-spy-building-in-game-can-land-you-in-jail-452427" hreflang="en">Beware! Planning to blow up virtual spy building in game can land you in jail &nbsp;</a>

The footage from a drone showed the derelict buildings. One could find partially collapsed roofs, bricks and wooden debris, which once made-up doors or beams, and even a drinking water fountain.

“It’s as if I’m watching a movie. I have a feeling of sadness. My feeling is that this is what will happen over the years due to drought and all that, with climate change,” said 65-year-old pensioner Maximino Pérez Romero, from A Coruña. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Drought is generally known to bring numerous issues and trigger exodus of people but seldom has it led to the rise of a village. Well, this unique development has occurred for real in Spain.

Drought is generally known to bring numerous issues and trigger exodus of people but seldom has it led to the rise of a village. Well, this unique development has occurred for real in Spain. What’s more special is that it is a ghost village. After a dam on the Spanish-Portuguese border emptied due to drought, a village, which was flooded in 1992 during the creation of the Alto Lindoso reservoir, has emerged. Also Read: UK woman says she is allergic to her own baby. But why It has now become a tourist attraction. The people can witness life, which got frozen in 1992. The Aceredo village in north-western Galicia region of Spain was flooded to create the Alto Lindoso reservoir. It is now at 15% of its capacity. Also Read: Beware! Planning to blow up virtual spy building in game can land you in jail The footage from a drone showed the derelict buildings. One could find partially collapsed roofs, bricks and wooden debris, which once made-up doors or beams, and even a drinking water fountain. “It’s as if I’m watching a movie. I have a feeling of sadness. My feeling is that this is what will happen over the years due to drought and all that, with climate change,” said 65-year-old pensioner Maximino Pérez Romero, from A Coruña. (With inputs from agencies)

Drought in Spain gives birth to a ghost village. It’s truly real!

Spain's Princess Cristina has announced her separation from her husband Inaki Urdangarin after 24 years of marriage. Princess Cristina is King Felipe's younger sister. 
 
"By mutual agreement, we have decided to break off our marriage. Our commitment to our children remains intact. Since this is a private decision we ask the utmost respect of all those around us," the couple, who have four children, said in a statement.&nbsp;

The announcement about their separation comes a week after photos of Urdangarin's alleged affair with another woman were splashed in the Spanish tabloid Lecturas. The couple were pictured holding hands during a visit to Southern France.&nbsp;

When asked about his affair, Urdangarin told the media, "These things happen. It is a difficulty that we will manage with the utmost tranquillity and together as we have always done." 
 
The former couple has courted controversy before. In 2018 Urdangarin was found guilty of tax fraud, embezzlement and influence peddling. He was sentenced by the Supreme Court to six years and three months in prison. Princess Cristina was also charged with tax fraud as part of the $6 million embezzlement scheme involving her husband and 16 other defendants but was acquitted in the case. 
 
She and Urdangarin were subsequently stripped of their titles, the Duke and Duchess of Palma de Mallorca.

Spain's Princess Cristina has announced her separation from her husband Inaki Urdangarin after 24 years of marriage. Princess Cristina is King Felipe's younger sister.

Spain's Princess Cristina has announced her separation from her husband Inaki Urdangarin after 24 years of marriage. Princess Cristina is King Felipe's younger sister. "By mutual agreement, we have decided to break off our marriage. Our commitment to our children remains intact. Since this is a private decision we ask the utmost respect of all those around us," the couple, who have four children, said in a statement. The announcement about their separation comes a week after photos of Urdangarin's alleged affair with another woman were splashed in the Spanish tabloid Lecturas. The couple were pictured holding hands during a visit to Southern France. When asked about his affair, Urdangarin told the media, "These things happen. It is a difficulty that we will manage with the utmost tranquillity and together as we have always done." The former couple has courted controversy before. In 2018 Urdangarin was found guilty of tax fraud, embezzlement and influence peddling. He was sentenced by the Supreme Court to six years and three months in prison. Princess Cristina was also charged with tax fraud as part of the $6 million embezzlement scheme involving her husband and 16 other defendants but was acquitted in the case. She and Urdangarin were subsequently stripped of their titles, the Duke and Duchess of Palma de Mallorca.

Spain's Princess Cristina announces separation from husband after 24 years of marriage

Days after scientists had declared a months-long volcanic eruption on the Spanish Canary Island of La Palma officially over, gas emissions & high temperatures continue.

Inside La Palma's volcano: Gas emissions & high temperatures continue

Spain's medieval city of Toledo has now been termed as having the most beautiful night view in the world by Japan's convention bureau and tourism office. Famous landmarks are illuminated every night with different shades of light, delighting tourists and locals alike who gather to watch this spectacle from the valley view point.

Japan's convention bureau & tourism office terms Toledo as having world's most beautiful night view

Six residents of a retirement home died, and scores injured after a fire broke out in eastern Spain, officials said.

Six fire engines were called in after a massive fire broke out around midnight Tuesday at the facility in Moncada in Valencia, the region's firefighters tweeted.

As many as 17 residents were said to be hospitalised, with three in serious condition.&nbsp;Firefighters said that they rescued 25 residents out of a total of 70 that were evacuated from the nursing home.

According to local media reports the fire was said to have started in a bedroom on the second floor. Though an investigation is underway, preliminary reports indicated that a short-circuit in an oxygen unit. may have caused the fire.

Firefighter chief José Basset told Spanish news agency EFE that when the firefighters arrived “there was a large number of people asking for help who were trapped by the smoke.”

Sánchez tweeted in Spanish that he was following “the tragic news from Moncada. My condolences to the families of the victims. We are watching with concern the evolution of the injured. All our support for the families and the town.”

Municipal authorities in Moncada have called for three days of mourning, with flags flying at half-staff on the town hall building. Officials called for a minute of silence at noon local time.

Spain’s nursing homes, like in many other countries, were particularly hard-hit during the worst months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Six residents of a retirement home died, and scores injured after a fire broke out in eastern Spain, officials said. Six fire engines were called in after a massive fire broke out around midnight Tuesday at the facility in Moncada in Valencia, the region's firefighters tweeted.

Six residents of a retirement home died, and scores injured after a fire broke out in eastern Spain, officials said. Six fire engines were called in after a massive fire broke out around midnight Tuesday at the facility in Moncada in Valencia, the region's firefighters tweeted. As many as 17 residents were said to be hospitalised, with three in serious condition. Firefighters said that they rescued 25 residents out of a total of 70 that were evacuated from the nursing home. According to local media reports the fire was said to have started in a bedroom on the second floor. Though an investigation is underway, preliminary reports indicated that a short-circuit in an oxygen unit. may have caused the fire. Firefighter chief José Basset told Spanish news agency EFE that when the firefighters arrived “there was a large number of people asking for help who were trapped by the smoke.” Sánchez tweeted in Spanish that he was following “the tragic news from Moncada. My condolences to the families of the victims. We are watching with concern the evolution of the injured. All our support for the families and the town.” Municipal authorities in Moncada have called for three days of mourning, with flags flying at half-staff on the town hall building. Officials called for a minute of silence at noon local time. Spain’s nursing homes, like in many other countries, were particularly hard-hit during the worst months of the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

6 killed, scores injured after massive fire in Spain’s nursing home

More than 100 horses jumped through bonfires in a so-called purification ceremony during a Spanish festival in Madrid, take a look at our next report.

'Las Luminarias' festival occurs early in Spain, animal rights group critical of event

About 100 horses jumped through bonfires in a purification ceremony on January 16 during the Spanish festival of "Las Luminarias," which was held for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The traditional night time celebration takes place in San Bartolome de Pinares every Jan. 16, the eve of Saint Anthony's Day, Spain's patron saint of animals.

Purification Ceremony: Horses jump over fire during 'Las Luminarias' festival

Las Luminarias, the Spanish festival made a comeback on Sunday (January 16). About 100 horses jumped through bonfires in a purification ceremony. This was the first time that the festival was organised since the start of the Covid pandemic.

The traditional nighttime celebration takes place in San Bartolome de Pinares every Jan. 16, the eve of Saint Anthony's Day, Spain's patron saint of animals.

It was cancelled last year because of pandemic restrictions.

Revellers rode their horses through the narrow cobble-stoned streets, which according to tradition, purifies the animals with the smoke and flames of the bonfires for the coming year.

<img alt="Las Luminarias" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f51be9e6-5592-4ff1-bd45-804d3fdf2b4c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9WB8NT.jpg" />

After an hour of horses jumping over flames, revellers then took to dancing and drinking.

"This comes from thousands of years ago. So that animals did not get unwell, the old priests would bless them with fires so that they would jump and be purified," said Fermin Abad, 64, a local resident.

About 100 horses and their owners took part in the festivities, Reuters witnesses said.

Despite coming under criticism from animal rights groups over the years, organisers told Reuters that the horses were not harmed due to precautions taken by riders to cut horse hair to avoid burns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Las Luminarias, the Spanish festival made a comeback on Sunday (January 16). About 100 horses jumped through bonfires in a purification ceremony. This was the first time that the festival was organised since the start of the Covid pandemic.

Las Luminarias, the Spanish festival made a comeback on Sunday (January 16). About 100 horses jumped through bonfires in a purification ceremony. This was the first time that the festival was organised since the start of the Covid pandemic. The traditional nighttime celebration takes place in San Bartolome de Pinares every Jan. 16, the eve of Saint Anthony's Day, Spain's patron saint of animals. It was cancelled last year because of pandemic restrictions. Revellers rode their horses through the narrow cobble-stoned streets, which according to tradition, purifies the animals with the smoke and flames of the bonfires for the coming year. After an hour of horses jumping over flames, revellers then took to dancing and drinking. "This comes from thousands of years ago. So that animals did not get unwell, the old priests would bless them with fires so that they would jump and be purified," said Fermin Abad, 64, a local resident. About 100 horses and their owners took part in the festivities, Reuters witnesses said. Despite coming under criticism from animal rights groups over the years, organisers told Reuters that the horses were not harmed due to precautions taken by riders to cut horse hair to avoid burns. (With inputs from agencies)

Horses jump through fire as Spanish festival makes a comeback

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said on Tuesday that he does not have any information on whether tennis star Novak Djokovic had visited Spain before travelling to Australia.

Asked by a reporter if he knew whether Djokovic had entered Spain in December, potentially invalidating a declaration the player completed on travelling to Australia, Albares responded: "I have no record of this presence of Djokovic."

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"We have not been contacted by the Australian government to request such documentation," he added.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said on Tuesday that he does not have any information on whether tennis star Novak Djokovic had visited Spain before travelling to Australia.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said on Tuesday that he does not have any information on whether tennis star Novak Djokovic had visited Spain before travelling to Australia. Asked by a reporter if he knew whether Djokovic had entered Spain in December, potentially invalidating a declaration the player completed on travelling to Australia, Albares responded: "I have no record of this presence of Djokovic." ALSO READ | Australian Open 2022: Novak Djokovic, Ashleigh Barty get top billings, Rafael Nadal to begin as 6th seed "We have not been contacted by the Australian government to request such documentation," he added.

Spain has no record of Serbian star Novak Djokovic's presence in December, claims Foreign Minister

Spain could soon have pet attorneys. The government has introduced a new law to determine custody of animals -- when couples separate. One of the options -- is joint custody. Our next report has all the details.

Spain to have pet attorneys soon

In one of the most amazing arrests, Google Street View helped catch a Sicilian mafia fugitive who had been on the run for nearly 20 years.

A mafia fugitive who was on the run for nearly 20 years was caught after being spotted on Google Street View.

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After a picture of a man resembling Giovanni Gammino was taken outside a fruit shop in Galapagar, Spain, authorities tracked down the man.

Gammino, 61, was tracked down to Galapagar a town near Madrid. He had long been suspected to be in the country, but police were unable to locate him.

According to Nicola Altiero, deputy director of Italy's anti-mafia unit (DIA), the photograph helped them confirm the investigation they were conducting in the traditional way.

Italy's La Repubblica newspaper reported that Gammino went by the name of Manuel and worked as a chef at a restaurant called La cocina de Manu.

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The Sicilian who has an identifying mark, a scar on the left side of his chin - also appears in a Facebook profile for the now-closed restaurant, which offered a "Sicilian dinner" for diners.

A Street View that revealed his downfall also showed him outside another establishment that bore his false name, El huerto de Manu.

The newspaper La Repubblica reports that Gammino was the boss of the Stidda crime group in Agrigento, Sicily. There has been much rivalry between the group and the well-known Cosa Nostra.

Giovanni Falcone - a renowned anti-mafia judge killed in a bomb attack - investigated him in the 1980s.

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In 2002, Gambino escaped from Rome's Rebibbia prison while a film was being made there, and a year later he was sentenced to life in prison for murder.

In the years since then he evaded capture, and recently his small-town life in Spain was uncovered to his surprise.

"How did you find me? I haven't called my family in ten years," Gammino reportedly told police upon his arrest on 17 December.

Currently, he has been taken into custody in Spain, according to Ms Altiero from the Italian anti-mafia unit, but he is expected to return to Italy in February.

In one of the most amazing arrests, Google Street View helped catch a Sicilian mafia fugitive who had been on the run for nearly 20 years. A mafia fugitive who was on the run for nearly 20 years was caught after being spotted on Google Street View.

In one of the most amazing arrests, Google Street View helped catch a Sicilian mafia fugitive who had been on the run for nearly 20 years. A mafia fugitive who was on the run for nearly 20 years was caught after being spotted on Google Street View. Also read | China shuts supermarkets after virus traces found in dragon fruit from Vietnam After a picture of a man resembling Giovanni Gammino was taken outside a fruit shop in Galapagar, Spain, authorities tracked down the man. Gammino, 61, was tracked down to Galapagar a town near Madrid. He had long been suspected to be in the country, but police were unable to locate him. According to Nicola Altiero, deputy director of Italy's anti-mafia unit (DIA), the photograph helped them confirm the investigation they were conducting in the traditional way. Italy's La Repubblica newspaper reported that Gammino went by the name of Manuel and worked as a chef at a restaurant called La cocina de Manu. Also read | Pet dog leads police in US to injured owner after crash The Sicilian who has an identifying mark, a scar on the left side of his chin - also appears in a Facebook profile for the now-closed restaurant, which offered a "Sicilian dinner" for diners. A Street View that revealed his downfall also showed him outside another establishment that bore his false name, El huerto de Manu. The newspaper La Repubblica reports that Gammino was the boss of the Stidda crime group in Agrigento, Sicily. There has been much rivalry between the group and the well-known Cosa Nostra. Giovanni Falcone - a renowned anti-mafia judge killed in a bomb attack - investigated him in the 1980s. Also read | In search of Muslim wife in her 20s, UK man puts up ad on billboards In 2002, Gambino escaped from Rome's Rebibbia prison while a film was being made there, and a year later he was sentenced to life in prison for murder. In the years since then he evaded capture, and recently his small-town life in Spain was uncovered to his surprise. "How did you find me? I haven't called my family in ten years," Gammino reportedly told police upon his arrest on 17 December. Currently, he has been taken into custody in Spain, according to Ms Altiero from the Italian anti-mafia unit, but he is expected to return to Italy in February.

Google street view helps nab Mafia boss on the run for 20 years

After a new law came into effect in Spain on Wednesday (January 5), pets in the country will be recognised as living and sentient beings for the first time and not as mere objects.&nbsp;

Now, at the time of divorce or separation, besides considering family needs, animal's welfare will be an important factor to be discussed by the family court when deciding who looks after the dog, cat, goldfish, turtle or bird.

Spain is not the first country to do so, some other European countries that recognise animals as sentient beings are France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Portugal.&nbsp;

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In Spain, the legislation was drafted by a junior member in the coalition government, Unidas Podemos. He has had a draft animal welfare law prepared since October.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;law aimed to prevent the possibility of a legal fight between estranged couples over who keeps the pets.

As per the law, owners must "guarantee" the pet's well-being and that if either spouse has a history of cruelty to animals he or she may be refused or lose custody of the animal.&nbsp;

The law, which amends Spain's civil code, also requires courts to consider the animal's welfare when settling disputes over who inherits a pet.

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El Pais reported that the changes are now in force under Spanish law. The modification is done in three pieces of legislation - the Civil Code, the Mortgage Act and the Civil Procedural Act.

As quoted by Reuters, lawyer Lola Garcia, 42, said, "Animals are part of the family and when a family decides to separate, the fate of the animal must be regulated with the same importance as the fate of other family members."&nbsp;

Importantly, the law which amends Spain's civil code also requires courts to consider the animal's welfare when settling disputes over who inherits a pet.

(With inputs from agencies)

After a new law came into effect in Spain on Wednesday (January 5), pets in the country will be recognised as living and sentient beings for the first time and not as mere objects.

After a new law came into effect in Spain on Wednesday (January 5), pets in the country will be recognised as living and sentient beings for the first time and not as mere objects. Now, at the time of divorce or separation, besides considering family needs, animal's welfare will be an important factor to be discussed by the family court when deciding who looks after the dog, cat, goldfish, turtle or bird. Spain is not the first country to do so, some other European countries that recognise animals as sentient beings are France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Portugal. ALSO READ | Pope Francis calls couples selfish who choose pets over kids, says it 'takes away humanity' In Spain, the legislation was drafted by a junior member in the coalition government, Unidas Podemos. He has had a draft animal welfare law prepared since October. The law aimed to prevent the possibility of a legal fight between estranged couples over who keeps the pets. As per the law, owners must "guarantee" the pet's well-being and that if either spouse has a history of cruelty to animals he or she may be refused or lose custody of the animal. The law, which amends Spain's civil code, also requires courts to consider the animal's welfare when settling disputes over who inherits a pet. ALSO READ | Google street view helps nab Mafia boss on the run for 20 years El Pais reported that the changes are now in force under Spanish law. The modification is done in three pieces of legislation - the Civil Code, the Mortgage Act and the Civil Procedural Act. As quoted by Reuters, lawyer Lola Garcia, 42, said, "Animals are part of the family and when a family decides to separate, the fate of the animal must be regulated with the same importance as the fate of other family members." Importantly, the law which amends Spain's civil code also requires courts to consider the animal's welfare when settling disputes over who inherits a pet. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain makes pets legal family members: Now, who will keep family cat or dog in the case of a divorce?

Several European regions witnessed unusual warm temperatures in the last week of December, with weather officials predicting milder winters at the start of 2022.

Northern Spain’s Bilbao region recorded 24.7 degrees Celsius, a high not witnessed since record-keeping began in 1947.

In Segovia near Madrid, 22.7 degrees Celsius was recorded, the highest since 1920, and nearby Avila reached 20.2 degrees Celsius, its highest since 1983.

“These high temperatures are not normal… These are temperatures that you would normally see in the month of April,” Rubén del Campo, a spokesperson for the state meteorological agency AEMET, told the Guardian.

He attributed the year-end heat to a mass of hot air over Spain combined with high pressure. “It’s a normal phenomenon that we do see, but what’s strange this time is the high temperatures we are seeing.”

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Weather officials said that the high-pressure anticyclone has passed over to France and Italy and have warned of avalanches in the Alps.

Temperatures in some of Italy’s best-known ski resorts, including Cortina d’Ampezzo and Courmayeur, are forecast to be hovering around 13-15 degrees Celsius above the seasonal norm on New Year’s Day, and the balmy weather is expected to linger until January 3.

Luca Mercalli, a meteorologist, told the Guardian, “At the moment it is about 15 degrees Celsius in areas of the Alps at an altitude of 1,600 metres and is not hitting zero beneath 4,000 metres. It hasn’t even been freezing at night – the temperature has not dropped below 10 degrees, and this is very unusual.”

The rest of Italy is also experiencing abnormally warm conditions, with a high of 18 degrees Celsius expected in Rome on Saturday and 22 degrees Celsius in the Sicilian city of Catania by the middle of next week.

Apart from that, UK also witnessed warm winters on New Year’s Eve, with some regions reporting 15 degrees Celsius.

The UK’s Met Office linked the unusual weather phenomena to climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several European regions witnessed unusual warm temperatures in the last week of December, with weather officials predicting milder winters at the start of 2022.

Several European regions witnessed unusual warm temperatures in the last week of December, with weather officials predicting milder winters at the start of 2022. Northern Spain’s Bilbao region recorded 24.7 degrees Celsius, a high not witnessed since record-keeping began in 1947. In Segovia near Madrid, 22.7 degrees Celsius was recorded, the highest since 1920, and nearby Avila reached 20.2 degrees Celsius, its highest since 1983. “These high temperatures are not normal… These are temperatures that you would normally see in the month of April,” Rubén del Campo, a spokesperson for the state meteorological agency AEMET, told the Guardian. He attributed the year-end heat to a mass of hot air over Spain combined with high pressure. “It’s a normal phenomenon that we do see, but what’s strange this time is the high temperatures we are seeing.” Also read | Ending 2021 on a warm note: UK records warmest New Year’s Eve Weather officials said that the high-pressure anticyclone has passed over to France and Italy and have warned of avalanches in the Alps. Temperatures in some of Italy’s best-known ski resorts, including Cortina d’Ampezzo and Courmayeur, are forecast to be hovering around 13-15 degrees Celsius above the seasonal norm on New Year’s Day, and the balmy weather is expected to linger until January 3. Luca Mercalli, a meteorologist, told the Guardian, “At the moment it is about 15 degrees Celsius in areas of the Alps at an altitude of 1,600 metres and is not hitting zero beneath 4,000 metres. It hasn’t even been freezing at night – the temperature has not dropped below 10 degrees, and this is very unusual.” The rest of Italy is also experiencing abnormally warm conditions, with a high of 18 degrees Celsius expected in Rome on Saturday and 22 degrees Celsius in the Sicilian city of Catania by the middle of next week. Apart from that, UK also witnessed warm winters on New Year’s Eve, with some regions reporting 15 degrees Celsius. The UK’s Met Office linked the unusual weather phenomena to climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain, Italy record ‘unusual’ warm temperatures on cold New Year’s Eve

In a remarkable effort, some local administrations in Spain have come up with menstrual leave for its staff. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This seems to be one of the first attempts to come up with such a leave in western Europe. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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It shows that these organisations care for their employees and understand their pain faced in the menstrual process.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Catalan city of Girona this year became the first in the country to consider flexible working arrangements for any employee, who was experiencing discomfort due to periods. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In June, it came up with a deal for over 1,300 municipal employees, which allowed women, trans men and non-binary individuals, to take around eight hours menstrual leave in a month. It also said that any time used should also be recovered in a span of three months. &nbsp;

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At the time, Maria Àngels Planas, who is city’s deputy mayor, said, “Girona is known for many things and I think today we’re adding a new item to the list as we pioneer the approval of menstrual leave. We are eliminating the taboo that exists around menstruation and the pain that some women suffer – that we suffer – during menstruation.”&nbsp;

Catalan municipalities of Ripoll and Les Borges Blanques also announced similar policies later. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a remarkable effort, some local administrations in Spain have come up with menstrual leave for its staff. This seems to be one of the first attempts to come up with such a leave in western Europe.

In a remarkable effort, some local administrations in Spain have come up with menstrual leave for its staff. This seems to be one of the first attempts to come up with such a leave in western Europe. Also Read: US woman locks self in airplane bathroom midair for five hours. Want to know why? It shows that these organisations care for their employees and understand their pain faced in the menstrual process. The Catalan city of Girona this year became the first in the country to consider flexible working arrangements for any employee, who was experiencing discomfort due to periods. In June, it came up with a deal for over 1,300 municipal employees, which allowed women, trans men and non-binary individuals, to take around eight hours menstrual leave in a month. It also said that any time used should also be recovered in a span of three months. Also Read: Assunta Maresca: Ex-beauty queen and first female boss in Camorra mafia, dies aged 86 At the time, Maria Àngels Planas, who is city’s deputy mayor, said, “Girona is known for many things and I think today we’re adding a new item to the list as we pioneer the approval of menstrual leave. We are eliminating the taboo that exists around menstruation and the pain that some women suffer – that we suffer – during menstruation.” Catalan municipalities of Ripoll and Les Borges Blanques also announced similar policies later. (With inputs from agencies)

A new beginning? Spain's local administrations offer menstrual leave to staff

Spain's consumer affairs minister, Alberto Garzon has said that eating less meat will lessen the consequences of climate change. He further added that it will also help in slowing deforestation and protect the country's tourism industry.&nbsp;

While speaking to The Guardian, he said, “People here know about the part that greenhouse gases play in climate change, but they tend to link it to cars and transport."

He highlighted how Spain's geography has made it vulnerable to climate change, saying that it is in danger of disappearing forever.

“It was only very recently that everyone started to look at the impact of the animal consumer chain and, especially, at the impact of beef. Other countries were pretty advanced on that but in Spain it’s been a taboo.”

The minister said that people need to realise the huge impact of eating meat, particularly beef. &nbsp;Accordingly, they should change their eating habits.

However, he said that people don't need to stop eating meat completely, but they should decrease the amount which is being consumed. “Extensive farming is an environmentally sustainable means of cattle farming and one that has a lot of heft in parts of Spain such as Asturias, parts of Castilla y León, Andalucía and Extremadura,” he said.

Extreme weather conditions have become the new normal with almost all the countries across the globe being affected by the impact of climate change.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain's consumer affairs minister, Alberto Garzon has said that eating less meat will lessen the consequences of climate change. He further added that it will also help in slowing deforestation and protect the country's tourism industry.

Spain's consumer affairs minister, Alberto Garzon has said that eating less meat will lessen the consequences of climate change. He further added that it will also help in slowing deforestation and protect the country's tourism industry. While speaking to The Guardian, he said, “People here know about the part that greenhouse gases play in climate change, but they tend to link it to cars and transport." He highlighted how Spain's geography has made it vulnerable to climate change, saying that it is in danger of disappearing forever. “It was only very recently that everyone started to look at the impact of the animal consumer chain and, especially, at the impact of beef. Other countries were pretty advanced on that but in Spain it’s been a taboo.” The minister said that people need to realise the huge impact of eating meat, particularly beef. Accordingly, they should change their eating habits. However, he said that people don't need to stop eating meat completely, but they should decrease the amount which is being consumed. “Extensive farming is an environmentally sustainable means of cattle farming and one that has a lot of heft in parts of Spain such as Asturias, parts of Castilla y León, Andalucía and Extremadura,” he said. Extreme weather conditions have become the new normal with almost all the countries across the globe being affected by the impact of climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

Spanish minister says people should cut on eating meat to curb climate crisis

Scientists have declared a months-long volcanic eruption on the Spanish Canary Island of La Palma officially over. According to officials, after bursting into action on September 19, the volcano suddenly went quiet on December 13.

Volcano eruption Spain's La Palma is officially over, says scientists

The rise of the omicron variant of the coronavirus has resulted in a sharp surge in the number of infections around the world. However, hundreds of protesters marched through central Barcelona to protest against the new holiday restrictions in Catalonia.

Hundreds of protesters march through central Barcelona against the new holiday restrictions

It's a sigh of relief after almost 100 days as pain's Cumbre Vieja volcano in La Palma has officially been declared over by the scientists.

Scientists declare volcanic eruption in La Palma over

Is volcanic eruption over in Spain's La Palma?

Spain on Saturday (December 25) announced that the eruptions of the Cumbre Vieja volcano in Canary Island were officially over. The information came three months after it began spewing rivers of molten rock and ash into the air.

Spain on Saturday (December 25) announced that the eruptions of the Cumbre Vieja volcano in Canary Island were officially over. The information came three months after it began spewing rivers of molten rock and ash into the air. "It lasted 85 days and 18 hours," Julio Perez, who is a director of the Canary emergency volcanic response, said at a press conference. Due to a quick response and rapid evacuation, the volcanic eruption did not cause injuries or deaths. However, it destroyed 1,345 homes, as well as schools, churches, health centres and farm irrigation infrastructure. After the volcanic eruption on the Spanish island of La Palma showed first signs that it might be coming to an end, members of Spain's Military Emergency Unit (UME) measured toxic gases near homes, clearing the way for more residents to return. ALSO READ | Pope Francis prays for COVID-19 pandemic’s end, healthcare for all on Christmas The eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano began on September 19 dramatic footage showed how it sent rivers of molten rock down its slopes, forcing the evacuation of over 7,000 people. The eruption was the longest on record on the island and the slow-moving lava covered over 1,200 hectares of land. It even made its way to the Atlantic. Island's banana plantations and tourism have been suffered a massive impact and as per the regional government, the eruption caused at least €900 million in damages. ALSO READ | Thousands of Russian troops returning to bases after drills near Ukraine: Report Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who visited La Palma several times during the eruption and has pledged to help La Palma rebuild after the disaster, described the news as "the best Christmas present." "We will continue working together, all the institutions, to relaunch the wonderful island of La Palma and repair the damage caused," Sanchez tweeted on Saturday. His government has so far promised €225 million in aid funding to recovery efforts, including buying temporary housing and providing financial assistance to people who lost their jobs. × (With inputs from agencies)

'Best Christmas present': Spain declares Canaries volcano eruption officially over

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