The Local Spain


When is it ok to go to the ER in Spain and when is it not?

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:41:14 +0200

Spaniards often go to ‘urgencias’ (the ER) even when it’s not a serious medical emergency. So when is it really acceptable to turn up at A&E and when do you need to book an appointment first?


Will you be compensated if your European flight is cancelled due to jet fuel shortages?

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:10:14 +0200

Europe is bracing for potential jet fuel shortages resulting from the ongoing international conflict in the Middle East. If your flight is affected, what are your rights?


PM stresses Spain is 'reliable' Nato member after US expulsion threat

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:44:51 +0200

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez today stressed his country was a "reliable member" of Nato, after a report by the Pentagon suggested the United States was considering trying to expel Spain over its refusal to support operations in the Middle East war.


Spain's job-hungry youngsters turn to vocational training

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:27:32 +0200

With almost a quarter of under-25s in Spain out of work, many are now turning their backs on traditional university degrees and opting instead for technical training that can withstand the threat of artificial intelligence on white collar work.


A guide to shopping at your local fruit and veg store in Spain

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:29:57 +0200

One of the best ways to integrate into life in Spain is to buy your fruit and veg at your local greengrocer in Spain, called a 'frutería'. Follow our tips on how to shop at them.


Today in Spain: A roundup of the latest news on Friday

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 08:24:11 +0200

Santiago de Compostela airport closes temporarily, Spain mulls penalising online book purchases to protect small bookstores, Spanish ex-PM Rajoy denies ordering political spying at trial and more news on Friday April 24th.


'More and more' Americans in Europe look to renounce passports after fee cut

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:27:42 +0200

Since mid-April Americans can benefit from a hugely reduced fee to renounce their US citizenship and many are now opting to take that route, campaigners say.


Eight fascinating facts about Spain's Aragón region

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:13:14 +0200

To celebrate Aragón Day (April 23rd), we’ve delved into its history and geography to offer you some intriguing facts about this overlooked region of Spain, from its unique language to its connection to chocolate.


Ten books that tell you everything you need to know about Spain

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 11:32:06 +0100

To mark World Book Day, we give you a breakdown of ten fiction and non-fiction ‘libros’ that will help you get to grips with Spain’s history, culture, the Spanish mindset and more.


Charged to receive a gift? How Spain's customs duties really work

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:12:50 +0200

Have you ever had to pay to receive a gift in Spain sent from family and friends back in your home country? Here's what the rules actually say, what is happening in reality and what you can do instead.


Which foreigners pay the most into Spain's social security system?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:14:20 +0200

With immigration a hot topic in Spain following the government's mass regularisation process, much of the debate overlooks the contribution that migrant communities make to the Spanish coffers.


11 mistakes to avoid when filing your Spanish tax return

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:29:12 +0200

Whether you've completed Spain’s annual 'declaración de la renta' (income tax return) before or this is your first time, there are several key points and common blunders you need to keep in mind before doing so.


High-speed rail link between Madrid and Málaga to restart

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:56:57 +0200

After nearly three and half months with no direct high-speed train connection between the Spanish capital and the Costa del Sol city, a date has finally been set for the line to fully resume.


Today in Spain: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:37:56 +0200

Spanish police close major manga piracy site, prosecutors seek dismissal of case against Spain PM's wife, civil servants 'overwhelmed' by migrant regularisation process, and more news from Spain this Thursday April 23rd.


Spain's far-right Vox returns to power in Extremadura

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:37:30 +0200

Spain's far-right Vox party returned Wednesday to the regional government of Extremadura after reaching a deal with the conservative Popular Party (PP), renewing their alliance ahead of a general election expected in 2027.


Key Points: What changes about life in Spain in May 2026

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:38:49 +0200

May 1st bank holiday, Mother's Day, preschool and petrol station strikes and plenty of festivals, this is what to expect in May 2026 in Spain.


Nursery workers in Spain to strike in May

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:09:30 +0200

Preschools throughout Spain are set to stage a stoppage on May 7th, affecting parents of young children ages 0-3 years.


Explained: New rules on pet passports for trips between Spain and the UK

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:19:16 +0200

The EU has tightened up the post-Brexit rules on access to the European Pet Passport. Here's what that means for trips between Spain and the UK for dogs, cats and ferrets.


Why St. George's Day is celebrated in Catalonia with roses and books

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 10:51:36 +0200

Catalonia prepares for its annual Sant Jordi celebrations tomorrow, April 23rd, when roses and books stalls flood the streets, particularly in the capital of Barcelona.


EU tightens rules for Brits travelling to Europe with pets

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:29:35 +0200

The EU has moved to tighten rules on pet passports, closing a loophole that has been used by many British second-home owners since Brexit.