News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

culture

Cultural and Sporting Events Flourish in Spain: A Vibrant February Ahead

As February unfolds in Spain, the country is set to vibrant life with a diverse array of cultural, sporting, and festive events that promise to captivate both locals and expats alike. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most exciting happenings across the nation.

Carnival Celebrations: A Kaleidoscope of Color and Joy

One of the most anticipated events is the Carnival, which takes place in various cities across Spain. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, renowned for its elaborate costumes, joyful parades, and electrifying atmosphere, is a standout. This carnival, which began at the end of January, will continue until early March, offering visitors a prolonged period to immerse themselves in the festivities. The grand parade, known as "Gran Coso Apoteosis," is a highlight, featuring intricately designed floats, vibrant costumes, and a rhythmic blend of music and dance[4].

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crime-law

Driver Arrested in Santander for Driving Under the Influence and Possession of Drugs

In a significant incident that highlights the ongoing issues of drug use and impaired driving in Spain, a driver was recently arrested in Santander after testing positive for drugs and being found in possession of a substantial amount of narcotics.

The Incident

On February 12, 2024, local authorities in Santander detained a driver who was operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs. The arrest occurred following a routine traffic stop, where the driver failed a drug test administered by the police.

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entertainment

Duolingo's Beloved Mascot Duo the Owl Sparks Emotional Reactions Upon His 'Death'

In a surprising and somewhat humorous turn of events, Duolingo, the popular language-learning app, has announced the 'death' of its iconic mascot, Duo the Owl. This news has sent ripples across the internet, eliciting a mix of confusion, sadness, and amusement from users worldwide.

The Announcement

On February 12, 2025, Duolingo shared a statement on all its social media platforms, informing users that Duo, the owl who had become synonymous with the app's notifications and reminders, had passed away. The announcement was made with a touch of humor, reflecting the lighthearted and playful nature of the brand.

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infrastructure

Government Allocates Nearly €1 Million for Hydraulic Projects in Valles Pasiegos, Cantabria

In a significant move to enhance the infrastructure and environmental sustainability of the Valles Pasiegos region in Cantabria, the local government has announced an allocation of nearly €1 million for various hydraulic projects. This investment is part of a broader effort to improve the region's water management and conservation.

Projects and Objectives

The funding will be distributed across several key projects aimed at upgrading and maintaining the hydraulic systems in the area. These projects include the renovation and expansion of existing water supply networks, the improvement of irrigation systems, and the implementation of measures to prevent and manage flooding. The objective is to ensure a reliable and efficient water supply, support local agriculture, and protect the region from potential water-related hazards.

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infrastructure

Guargacho in Disarray: Broken Streets, Endless Construction, and No Explanations for Residents

In the quaint town of Guargacho, located in the municipality of San Miguel de Abona in Tenerife, a sense of frustration and despair has gripped the local community. The once peaceful streets of Guargacho are now marred by broken roads, endless construction projects, and a glaring lack of communication from the authorities.

The State of the Streets

Residents of Guargacho have been dealing with the aftermath of what seems to be an interminable series of construction projects. The streets, once a pride of the community, are now riddled with potholes and uneven surfaces, making daily life a challenge. The constant presence of construction equipment and half-finished projects has turned what was once a charming neighborhood into a maze of obstacles.

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travel

Madrid and Cantabria Enhance Their Tourism Profiles with New Initiatives

As Spain continues to solidify its position as a global tourism powerhouse, two of its regions, Madrid and Cantabria, are making significant strides to attract and retain visitors through innovative and sustainable tourism strategies.

Madrid's Record-Breaking Tourism Year

Madrid has just concluded its best year yet for tourism, with an estimated 11.2 million visitors in 2024, marking a 5.5% increase from the previous year. This surge has been driven largely by international tourism, with overnight stays rising by 4.7% and total spending by international tourists reaching 16.141 billion EUR, a 21% increase from 2023[1].

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