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News

News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain.

housing

Cantabria Ends the Year with No Progress on Demolitions and Flood Relief

As the year 2024 draws to a close, the autonomous community of Cantabria in northern Spain is reflecting on a year marked by significant challenges, particularly in the areas of demolition policies and flood relief, with little to no progress made.

Demolition Policies: A Year of Stagnation

The Association of Municipalities of Cantabria (AMA) has expressed deep disappointment that the year is concluding without any substantial changes to the region's demolition policies. Despite ongoing discussions and promises of reform, the current regulations remain unchanged, leaving many residents and local authorities frustrated.

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culture

Embracing the Unique Traditions of New Year’s Eve in Spain

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, Spain comes alive with a unique and beloved tradition that sets it apart from other global celebrations. For expats and locals alike, the custom of eating 12 grapes, known as Las Uvas de la Suerte (the grapes of luck), is an integral part of the festive atmosphere.

The 12 Grapes Tradition

This tradition, deeply rooted in Spanish culture, involves eating one grape for each chime of the midnight bell, totaling 12 grapes. The origins of this practice date back to the late 19th or early 20th century, with one popular theory attributing it to grape farmers in Alicante who promoted the idea to sell off a surplus harvest in the early 1900s[3].

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culture

Engaging with Catalan Culture: Fun and Educational Board Games for Expats and Their Families

As the holiday season approaches, there's no better way to immerse yourself and your family in Catalan culture than through engaging and educational board games. For expats in Spain, particularly those with children, these games offer a unique opportunity to learn the Catalan language and appreciate local traditions.

Aprenc en Positiu les Lletres: A Journey Through the Alphabet

Designed for children aged 4 to 7, Aprenc en Positiu les Lletres is an interactive game that introduces young learners to the Catalan alphabet. This game is packed with educational tools, including cardboard pieces shaped like letters, illustrations, and words. The set includes a letter wheel, a wipeable marker, and a poster for a fun "find and seek" activity. This game is perfect for helping children recognize letters, familiarize themselves with the sounds of the language, and begin writing by associating words with images.

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health

Expats in Spain: Local Pharmacies Step Up to Help You Quit Smoking

As the New Year approaches, many expats in Spain are gearing up to tackle one of the most challenging New Year's resolutions: quitting smoking. In a heartening move, local pharmacies across Spain are extending a helping hand to support this journey.

A Comprehensive Support System

Pharmacies, often the first point of contact for health advice, are now offering more than just medication; they are providing a comprehensive support system to help individuals overcome the addiction to smoking. This initiative is particularly significant for expats who may face additional challenges such as language barriers and unfamiliar healthcare systems.

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education

Families of Spanish-Speaking Students Face Significant Challenges with Technology Integration

In a landscape where technology is increasingly integral to education, families of Spanish-speaking students in Spain and the United States are encountering substantial difficulties that affect the integration and academic success of these students.

The Digital Divide and Its Consequences

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in schools, but this shift has exacerbated existing inequalities. Research indicates that the emergency remote teaching (ERT) measures implemented during the pandemic widened the achievement gap for Spanish-speaking students, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Studies have shown that these students faced greater barriers to learning, including limited access to reliable internet and suitable devices, which hindered their ability to keep up with their peers[1].

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culture

Festive Cheer Abounds as Children Receive Christmas Awards in Trasmiera, Cantabria

In the heart of Cantabria, the municipality of Trasmiera recently celebrated the spirit of the holiday season with a heartwarming ceremony where children were awarded for their participation in various Christmas contests and tournaments.

A Joyful Celebration

On December 28, 2024, the town of Trasmiera came alive with excitement as local children gathered to receive their well-deserved awards. The event, which has become an annual tradition, was held at a local community center and was attended by families, local officials, and community members.

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