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The Irish Sun
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Inside secret Ibiza shanty town riddled with snakes where superclub workers live in squalor with no water or electricity
AS dawn breaks and the thump of Ibiza's wild nightlife begins to subside, the ramshackle shanty town is starting to awake. Folk emerge from mosquito- infested tarpaulin shacks as tipsy clubbers leave Pacha superclub — where VIP tickets can cost almost £1,700 — just a five-minute drive away. Advertisement 10 The super-rich and celebrities who have turned the White Isle into Europe's premier party destination are being catered for by shanty town dwellers Credit: Louis Wood 10 Chelsea fan and sous chef Mohamed said: 'We have no water, no electricity, no toilets and no hope' Credit: Louis Wood 10 In other impromptu camps, workers are all reduced to living in tents, cars, caravans and camper vans Credit: Louis Wood The makeshift encampment, plagued with snakes and without electricity, running water or toilets, resembles the fetid Yet, waiting for their shifts to begin at the Ibiza camp, I met a sous chef, a kitchen porter, a security guard at the port, a hotel cleaner and a dish washer. Advertisement For the super-rich and celebrities, who have turned the Spain suffers a housing crisis. Nestled beneath the high-end restaurants of Outside his shack of wooden pallets, restaurant worker Yaslem Hamdi, 34, originally from Western Sahara, told me: 'We live here with the snakes and insects because we can't afford to rent an apartment.' Yaslem tells me he makes around £1,100 a month while a tiny room nearby costs about £700 to rent. Pitched amid scrubland near the Can Misses Hospital, the hospitality workers here shower by pouring bottles of water over themselves in cubicles made from discarded wood. Advertisement Some use a patch of bushes as an outside loo. Sun-drenched party isle It is a miserable existence for staff propping up GDP . As temperatures soar towards 35C, yachts bob in azure waters as those aboard sip ice-cooled beer and champagne just a short drive from the camps. Brit tourists face holiday chaos with strikes confirmed for 180,000 hospitality staff throughout July on hotspot islands Pot washer Yaslem is among thousands of working homeless people on the sun-drenched party island. In other nearby impromptu camps I met a nurse, a hairdresser and chef, all reduced to living in tents, cars , caravans and camper vans. Advertisement Yet, its own left-wing government has helped fuel the shortfall by encouraging immigration while not building enough new homes for the incomers. New arrivals mean 250,000 households are added in Spain each year — but fewer than 90,000 new homes are built, according to the Economist magazine. The Bank of Spain has estimated that there is a shortage of 500,000 properties. The shanty town is a world away from the sun-kissed Balearic island's famous nightclubs, pristine sandy beaches and luxury villas. Long fashionable for its pretty villages and cuisine, one local newspaper says Ibiza's high-end prices now put it 'on a par with St Tropez'. Advertisement Home to 160,000 people, Ibiza received 3.6million tourists last year, with Brits the largest group from overseas. Each tourist spends an average of just over £160 a day. Some we spoke to believe a slice of the profits and taxes reaped from tourism should be spent on workers' accommodation. 10 It's a miserable existence for staff propping up an industry projected to be worth over £220billion to the Spanish economy this year Credit: Louis Wood 10 Activists have blamed over-tourism for driving up rent prices which many workers cannot afford Credit: Louis Wood 10 Restaurant worker Yaslem Hamdi, 34, originally from Western Sahara, said 'We live here with the snakes and insects' Credit: Louis Wood Advertisement 10 Sanchez's left-wingers have also been accused of siding with squatters over landlords Credit: Louis Wood Shanty town dweller Yehdih Salec Abdalila, 25, who works six days a week as a bartender, told me: 'We're working all day, so why can't we come home to a normal house like everyone else? The employers or government should give us a little bedroom with somewhere to wash.' On the golden sands of San Antonio close to party hotspots Linekers and Mum-of-two Kaylie Brooker, 34, said she and her friend Tara Madigan, 27, had each spent £1,000 for a three-day break on the island. 'The Spanish should appreciate that Brits want to come to their country and spend so much money ,' said Kaylie, from Brighton. Advertisement 'The government here should use some of that cash to build houses for the homeless workers. Tourists shouldn't get the blame.' Activists have blamed over-tourism for driving up rent prices which many workers cannot afford. Spain has been convulsed by protesters who say holidaymakers also clog roads and overload sewerage pipelines. Last month demonstrators in Barcelona Protesters in Palma, Mallorca, held up placards reading, 'Tourists go home' while others marched through Ibiza Town. Advertisement I've lived here for a year. I work — we're not down and outs — but we can't afford the rents. Caravan dweller Jose In another makeshift settlement in Ibiza, Portuguese chef Tiago Martins, 29, told me: 'How can you blame the tourists? They pay our wages.' The hospitality worker lives in a van alongside dozens of others — including families with children — in tents, motorhomes , cars and caravans on a fly-blown and sweltering patch of land near Ikea in Ibiza Town. None can afford the rents on the island. Residents here have been served with a notice by local government saying they must move or face fines of up to £25,500. Speaking through a fly net draped in the doorway of his cramped van, Tiago added: 'Then where would we sleep ? And who would do the tourism jobs ?' Advertisement It's not only workers in the tourism sector who are homeless. In a dustbowl carpark near Can Misses Hospital I met trainee nurse Maria, 34, returning to her caravan after her shift. With the silhouette of the cobbled Old Town behind her, Maria — from Cordoba on the mainland — told me: 'In the summer it's impossible to afford a room in Ibiza. Medical workers should be provided with accommodation.' In the midday heat, night workers slump in vans with the doors open hoping for a breeze in the stultifying temperatures while pet dogs yap at strangers. Caravan dweller Jose, 30, originally from Argentina , said: 'I've lived here for a year. I work — we're not down and outs — but we can't afford the rents.' Advertisement Strolling along the beachfront at San Antonio, tourist dad-of-two Nick Skelton, 60, a part-time surveyor from Hull , said of the shanty towns: 'It's wrong. They should look after their workers. You can't have them do a day's work then go home to a bloody shack.' 10 Vikki Malek, pictured left with pal Tamara Bentley said: 'The rents here are overpriced. I don't think businesses care about the people in the shanty town' Credit: Louis Wood 10 Home to 160,000 people, Ibiza received 3.6million tourists last year, with Brits the largest group from overseas Credit: Louis Wood Enjoying a paddle in the waves, Vikki Malek, 27, from Dundee, who runs a beauty business , added: 'The rents here are overpriced. I don't think businesses care about the people in the shanty towns.' Her friend, businesswoman Tamara Bentley , 31, from Aberdeen, told me: 'If you want tourists to come you need workers. Advertisement 'They help bring in the profits so they should be looked after.' While much of the ire for Spain's property shortfall has fallen on tourists, socialist PM Pedro Sanchez's policies have only fanned the flames of the housing crisis. Bucking the trend across Europe , Sanchez's tottering administration — attempting to weather a corruption scandal — has encouraged immigration since taking office in 2018. Vulnerable families In 2022 alone, close to three quarters of a million people arrived to start a new life in the nation. With house building failing to match the rising population, it's hardly surprising that rents have risen by nearly 80 per cent in the past decade. Advertisement Sanchez's left-wingers have also been accused of siding with squatters over landlords, which has left homeowners wary of renting out their properties. Laws mean vulnerable families cannot be evicted unless they have alternative housing to go to. Last year there were 16,000 reports of squatting in Spain, with heavies often employed in forced evictions. Activists insist that tourism has made the housing emergency worse. Ibiza campaigners point out that flights to the island have risen from just over 25,000 in 2000 to a record 66,000 scheduled for this year. Almost a fifth of the planes are arriving from the UK. Advertisement Expat Xaquelina Ana Perry, spokeswoman for Prou Eivissa (Enough Ibiza), which campaigns against over-tourism, describes conditions in the shanty towns as 'awful'. 'It's unbelievable that on Ibiza, the Magic Island, people have to live like that,' said Xaquelina, who has lived here for 40 years. 10 Oliver Harvey in an Ibiza shanty town Credit: Louis Wood Originally from Wolverhampton, Xaquelina, in her 60s, says landlords are renting out their apartments illegally to tourists because they can charge a higher price. 'We want that stopped because the resources of the island can't cope,' she said. 'You need essential services and frontline workers.' Advertisement The mum stresses her group's campaign isn't against tourism but promotes a 'change in the type of tourism'. She added: 'Back in the 1980s you had family tourism, you had couples. Now people come for clubs and drugs and it's attracting the wrong type of people. 'People who break into houses and steal. And there's fights on the streets between drug dealers. It's awful — we never had that before.' Ibiza's council has taken steps to address the housing crisis and overcrowding on the island. It launched 'an unprecedented fight' against illegal tourist lettings, and now allows just two cruise ships to dock at once. Meanwhile, back in the shanty town, weary workers prepare for another day helping keep Spain's tourist industry afloat. Advertisement Sous chef Mohamed, 17, told me: 'We have no water, no electricity, no toilets and no hope.' A damning indictment from a grafter in an industry that provides rivers of gold for Spain.
Local Spain
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Local Spain
The Spanish city with migrant integration as its top priority
This comes amid growing anti-tourism and even some outright anti-foreigner sentiment in Spain in recent years, but Valladolid and Spain more widely will increasingly rely on migrant labour to prop up its pensions system in the future. A recent study by the Bank of Spain estimates that the country will need up to 25 million more immigrant workers by 2053 in order to combat demographic ageing and maintain the ratio of workers to pensioners. This tension is not entirely understood by some aspects of Spanish society but is one that the authorities in Valladolid recognise and are already working towards. Reports in the local media suggest that demographic forecasts mean the city will need as many as 40,000 immigrants by 2040 in order to maintain population levels. With this demographic challenge ahead, the city is now preparing for integration. The mayor of Valladolid, Jesús Julio Carnero, recently presented the 'Second Plan for Coexistence' and it outlined the "inclusion, equal treatment and positive management of cultural diversity in the city." "Valladolid is a dynamic and open city, reflecting an increasingly diverse society. In 2019, there were a total of 14,700 foreigners and now we have 24,412 in 2024, representing 8 percent of the population,' Carnero said. The city's foreign resident population has grown by 63 percent in that time. "The largest community in Valladolid is Colombian, although we have residents from a total of 130 nationalities in the city. "This illustrates the diversity of the city," he added. The objective is 'an inclusive city, where people from different backgrounds live together in harmony based on respect and equal treatment between men and women," he said. However, Carnero, who is from the centre-right Partido Popular, governs in coalition with the far-right party Vox. The party has traditionally taken a hard line on immigration and even called for mass deportations. As such, Carnero also acknowledged during the presentation that the city has changed in a 'notable' way in recent years due to the influx of migrants. The new plan is structured around a total of 60 different initiatives and has seven main areas, including reception and social inclusion, cultural diversity management, coexistence and meeting spaces, intercultural mediation, anti-discrimination and awareness-raising, leadership and co-governance, and participation and association. Through all these plans, measures will be implemented to promote equal opportunities, prevent conflicts, support job placement, strengthen community ties and ensure equitable access to public services as the demographic face of the city changes. The plan also commits to raising awareness and promoting the Roma community to combat prejudice and stigma through play and awareness-raising in educational and community settings.
Daily Mirror
04-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Brits heading to Spain issued warning as rules on cash abroad change
Brits on Spain holidays should take note of new rules around Euro notes in holiday hotspots including the Canaries as you could find your cash is refused Brits planning Spain holidays this year will no doubt be looking to withdraw some cash for shopping, food and souvenirs but there's a new rule in place you'll need to be aware of. Although nowadays most people will favour card payments over cash, the latter can still be useful especially if you're out and about and find yourself in a shop or restaurant that doesn't accept card. However, UK holidaymakers heading to Spain, the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands may want to take note of new rules regarding Euro notes. Firstly, if you can, avoid withdrawing €500 notes at the currency exchange or bank. The European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain officially ceased production of these notes in 2016, but a small quantity of these purple notes are still in circulation. Although they are legal tender, their usage is becoming increasingly challenging, reports Bristol Live. The hefty value of the notes, along with their link to illicit activities, has resulted in many establishments refusing to accept them. If you withdraw money and receive a €500 note, insist on smaller denominations instead. You can also take large notes to a Spanish bank for exchange. Of course when it comes to cash, most of us will opt for smaller amounts at a time, but if you're thinking of using up some older €50 notes from previous holidays, you may want to get rid of these quickly. This is because Spain's central bank has started phasing out old and damaged €50 notes from circulation. This scheme, which kicks off this summer, aims to bolster the security of cash transactions and thwart fraud. The new changes are being rolled out, so if you've got a holiday booked this summer you won't suddenly find that all of your cash isn't accepted. However if you do have some Euros lying around the house, you may want to consider using them up on your next holidays. It's also worth checking the state of your banknotes, especially if they've been crammed into a purse at the bottom of a drawer or suitcase for a few months. That's because as part of the new rollouts, old and damaged banknotes will also be gradually withdrawn from circulation. This could mean that tourists might find their worn or torn notes being rejected by cashiers. When you're swapping your holiday money, make sure any €50 notes are in tip-top shape, and ask for replacements if you spot any damage. Tattered notes can be exchanged at any Bank of Spain branch or selected partner banks, but don't forget to bring some form of identification like your passport. They won't exchange counterfeit or deliberately damaged notes. For those who usually toss their spare change into a jar after their holiday, it's worth noting that some countries may soon ditch one and two cent Euro coins too. Countries such as Ireland, Belgium, and Italy have already ceased using these coins, rounding up cash transactions to the nearest five cents instead, and they're no longer being produced. Meanwhile a number of other Eurozone countries are doing the same,
Wales Online
03-07-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Spain issues warning for Brits using cash as Euro note is 'no longer accepted'
Spain issues warning for Brits using cash as Euro note is 'no longer accepted' If you are heading to Spain on holiday and plan to use cash, there are some important changes that you need to be aware of before leaving the UK Check your notes when you withdraw or change Euros (Image: Cesare Ferrari via Getty Images ) While many Brits have embraced card payments during their holidays, some still prefer the feel of cash in their pockets. Especially when there are instances where cards might not be accepted. If you're planning a Spanish holiday this year, you might be thinking about withdrawing some Euros for shopping, dining out, or maybe buying a few souvenirs.n However, even if you're a frequent visitor to mainland Spain, the Canary Islands, or the Balearic Islands, you might not be aware of some changes being made regarding Euro banknotes. Firstly, try to avoid withdrawing €500 notes at the currency exchange or bank. The European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain officially stopped producing these notes in 2016, but a small quantity of these purple notes are still in circulation. Although they are legal tender, they're becoming increasingly difficult to use, reports the Liverpool Echo, reports Bristol Live. The high value of the notes, coupled with their association with criminal activity, has led to many places declining to accept them. If you withdraw money and receive a €500 note, request smaller denominations instead. You can also take large notes to a Spanish bank for exchange. Spain's central bank has also started the process of removing old and damaged €50 notes from circulation. Article continues below This initiative, set to start in July 2025, aims to enhance the security of cash transactions and curb fraud. The change in policy coincides with the tourist season, leading to a gradual withdrawal of old and damaged banknotes. This could mean that tourists may find their worn or torn notes being rejected by cashiers. When you're changing your holiday money, make sure any €50 notes are in good nick, and ask for replacements if you spot any damage. Tatty notes can be swapped at any Bank of Spain branch or selected partner banks, but don't forget to bring some form of ID like your passport. They won't exchange counterfeit or deliberately damaged notes. For those who usually toss their spare change into a jar after a holiday, it's worth noting that some countries might soon ditch one and two cent Euro coins. Countries such as Ireland, Belgium, and Italy have already stopped using these coins, rounding up cash transactions to the nearest five cents instead, and they're no longer being minted. Article continues below Many Eurozone countries are considering doing the same. So, if you've gathered a jar full of coppers, consider spending them on an ice cream during your next holiday, as they may not be accepted in the near future.
Daily Record
02-07-2025
- Daily Record
Holidaymakers in Spain shouldn't bring one Euro note that's 'no longer accepted'
If you're buying cash to take on holiday, avoid one note. A growing number of holidaymakers will use cards to pay for meals, drinks and trips while abroad, but it makes sense to have some currency on you too. Cash can be used to pay for smaller purchases, taxis and bus fares and in places where cards are not always accepted. Brits heading to Spain will need to take Euros, but they are being alerted to one particular note they shouldn't take with them. That's because there has been some changes regarding Euro banknotes. Those holidaying in mainland Spain, the Canary Islands or the popular Balearic Island shouldn't withdraw €500 notes. The Bank of Spain and the European Central Bank ceased prodction of these in 2016, according to EuroWeekly. While there are still a small amount of these notes - which are purple - in circulation, they are becoming harder to spend. The notes are still legal tender but the high value of them, along with their links to criminal activity, means many Spanish establishment are refusing to accept them. If you given one when exchanging currency, you should ask for smaller denominations. If you draw one from an ATM while on holiday, you can exchange it for smaller notes in a bank, reports Bristol Live. Spain's change in policy is coinciding with peak tourists season. They are implementing a gradual withdrawal of old and damaged banknotes which could also cause issues for tourists. Some cashiers and places may refuse to accept any notes that are worn or torn. To prevent this happening, when exchanging your holiday money, make sure any €50 notes are in good condition, and ask for replacements if you spot any damage. Worn notes can be swapped at any Bank of Spain branch or selected partner banks, but don't forget to bring some form of identification like your passport. The central bank of Spain has also started the process of removing old and damaged €50 notes from circulation. This initiative, expected to begin in July 2025, is designed to improve the security of cash transactions and reduce fraud. They won't exchange counterfeit or deliberately damaged notes. For those who usually toss their spare change into a jar after a holiday, it's worth bearing in mind that some countries might soon do away with one and two cent Euro coins. Countries such as Ireland, Belgium, and Italy have already ceased using these coins, rounding up cash transactions to the nearest five cents instead, and they're no longer being minted. Many Eurozone countries are contemplating following suit. So, if you've amassed a jar full of coppers, think about spending them on an ice cream during your next holiday, as they may not be accepted in the near future.
