Almeria
Andalucía launches exceptional hospital support plan for Huércal-Overa
Targeted response to staffing shortages.
Credit: Phanphen Kaewwannarat / Shutterstock
Andalucía has activated an exceptional healthcare support programme aimed at reinforcing services at the Hospital de Huércal-Overa. The initiative, led by the Service Andaluz de Salud (SAS), is designed to improve access to hospital care in areas where staffing gaps and recruitment difficulties are affecting service delivery, particularly across parts of the Levante Almeriense. The measure forms part of a wider effort to keep hospital activity running smoothly in centres that struggle to fill key medical posts, and can be extended in remote hospitals facing similar challenges.
How the scheme will work in practice
Under the new system, healthcare professionals from other hospitals will be able to volunteer for additional shifts beyond their normal working hours. These extra sessions may take place in operating theatres, outpatient clinics or hospital wards. The aim is to increase available staff quickly and flexibly, ensuring that essential services can continue even when local recruitment is not keeping pace with demand. The focus is on maintaining continuity of care during periods of pressure.
Increased pay to support participation
A central feature of the programme is a stronger financial incentive for staff. The existing accessibility payment will be doubled for those who take part in the scheme. This change is intended to make participation more attractive and to help attract professionals willing to support hospitals with staffing shortages. Regional health minister Antonio Sanz said the priority is to guarantee uninterrupted care for patients and ensure equal access to services. He explained that the initiative responds directly to the situation at Huércal-Overa while longer-term staffing measures continue to be developed.
Temporary measure linked to specific conditions
The programme will only be activated in clearly defined cases, such as when posts remain unfilled or when hospitals face significant recruitment challenges. It is not permanent. Instead, it is designed as a temporary support tool that will remain in place until staffing levels are stabilised. Authorities describe it as a practical response that can be deployed when needed, rather than a structural change to the system.
Coordination between regional and local authorities
The announcement followed a meeting attended by Antonio Sanz alongside Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, Nicolás Navarro and SAS manager Valle García. Local representatives also took part, including Huércal-Overa mayor Domingo Fernández Zurano and José Antonio García Alcaina, president of the Diputación de Almería. Officials from both regional government and local institutions discussed how the programme will be applied, with the shared aim of keeping hospital services running effectively in the area while longer-term solutions are put in place.
Whether you live in Mojácar, Albox, or Huercal-Overa you can find more local Almería updates here.
In Garrucha, right on the water’s edge, is a delicious and truly idyllic dinning spot, where the fish is as fresh as you’d expect for a restaurant a stone’s throw from the ocean.
An impressive sea view
Boracay Beach will blow you away before you even take a look at the menu. Its beautiful outdoor terrace offers stunning sea views. Mere meters from the beach, you can sit back and watch as the wave’s role onto the sand and boats sail past. Sitting there, you’ll feel like you’re on holiday, even if you’ve been living on the coast for years.
This is by no means a hidden gem. Hordes of people stop by for breakfast, lunch and dinner meaning the restaurant is nearly always full. Sometimes this does translate to longer wait times but the picturesque view more than makes up for it. Sit back, relax and lose yourself in the ambience.
For the full experience, aim for a sunset reservation. As you relax with a glass of wine or take the first bite of your meal, watch as the sun dips below the horizon.
A tapas menu worth talking about
While their entire menu is impressive, their tapas menu is especially worth raving about. It doesn’t do anything special, but it does do everything right. Classic dishes made from quality produce, expertly cooked and beautifully presented.
For such high-quality food served against such a beautiful backdrop, the prices are incredibly reasonable. Traditional tapas like Abondigas or Patas Bravas are available for €1.80, while more luxurious dishes like Ratatouille, Red Tuna or Pork Tenderloin Skewers range from €2 to €3.80.
A popular place for paella
Boracay beach is also a popular spot for paella. Choose between the mixed or the seafood paella and wait as patiently as you can until it is served to you in a giant flat pan. In addition to paella, the menu boasts an abundance of delicious rice dishes.
This is an ideal dish for sharing, especially considering it’s served to a minimum of two people. Like with every Boracay dish, the portion sizes are generous so there will be plenty to go around.
There’s also plenty of option for picky eaters – Chicken and Chips, Croquettes, Sirloin Steak – so don’t feel like you have to leave them at home.
Where to find Boracay Beach
Boracay Beach can be found at Paseo del Malecon, 19 in Garrucha. Reserve a table in advance by calling 950 460 647 or visiting their website boracaygarrucha.com.
2026 Moors and Christians festival announced with parade Credit: Turismo de Mojacar / Facebook
Mojácar has officially unveiled the programme for its highly anticipated 2026 Moors and Christians Festival, marking one of the most important cultural celebrations in the province of Almería. The announcement was made in dramatic style with a symbolic parade through the heart of Almería’s capital, showcasing the colour, tradition and theatricality that define the annual event.
Theatrical parade through the heart of Almería
A group of around one hundred residents from Mojácar took to the streets of Almería city centre to present the upcoming festival programme. The procession travelled from the Provincial Palace to Puerta Purchena, drawing the attention of passers-by as it brought a taste of medieval history into the modern city.
At the centre of the parade were 26 costumed participants, equally divided between Moors and Christians, dressed in richly detailed traditional outfits. Their presence offered a vivid preview of the historical reenactments and performances that will form the highlight of the 2026 celebrations. Adding to the atmosphere, live musical groups accompanied the procession, filling the streets with festive rhythms and enhancing the sense of spectacle.
A celebration of history, coexistence and cultural identity
The Moors and Christians Festival in Mojácar is deeply rooted in the history of the region, commemorating the peaceful surrender of the town to the Christian King in 1488. Today, it has evolved into a broader celebration of cultural identity, coexistence and mutual respect between different traditions and religions.
Held annually on the weekend closest to June 12, the festival brings together locals and visitors in a shared appreciation of Mojácar’s unique heritage.
The 2026 edition will take place from 11 to 14 June, promising an extended programme of events and performances.
Programme highlights for the 2026 festival
The 2026 festival is expected to feature a wide range of activities designed to immerse attendees in medieval history and pageantry. Among the anticipated highlights are large-scale street parades, a detailed historical reenactment of the town’s surrender, and a spectacular medieval jousting tournament.
These events are designed to combine entertainment with education, allowing visitors to experience the traditions and historical narratives that have shaped Mojácar’s identity over centuries.
Official presentation and local pride
The official unveiling of the festival programme concluded with the presentation of the 2026 festival poster, alongside speeches from civic leaders, including the Mayor of Almería and Mojácar’s mayor, Francisco García. The mayor of Mojácar described the festival as the “most important celebration in the province of Almería”, highlighting its significance for both cultural tourism and local pride.
With its blend of history, pageantry and community spirit, the Mojácar Moors and Christians Festival continues to stand as one of southern Spain’s most vibrant and meaningful cultural events.
Get ready for a delicious weekend at the Albox Burger Fest 2026, one of the most anticipated food festivals in the Almanzora Valley. Taking place from April 16 to 19 at the Albox Fairgrounds, this four-day celebration promises mouthwatering burgers, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families, friends, and food lovers alike. With free admission, it’s the ideal spring event to enjoy great food without breaking the bank.
Gourmet burgers: which is the best?
This year’s festival will showcase eight unique (some borderline bizarre) burger creations, each crafted by talented chefs and local restaurants competing for the title of best burger in the Almanzora Valley. Visitors can expect a wide range of flavours, from elevated classics to bold, experimental combinations.
For those who appreciate tradition, options like the Smoke BBQ burger deliver comfort with a gourmet twist. Featuring slow-cooked BBQ rib meat paired with creamy camembert cheese, this burger offers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that elevates the classic cheeseburger concept.
On the more adventurous side, creations like the Brutal Blue burger push culinary boundaries. With its striking blue brioche bun and innovative bacon popcorn dressing, it’s designed to stand out both visually and in flavour, making it a must-try for those seeking something different.
Sweet treats and tasty delights
No food festival is complete without dessert, and Albox Burger Fest delivers on that front as well. La Gio Cheesecakes will be in attendance at the festival with a tempting selection of three different cheesecake flavours. These indulgent treats provide the perfect sweet ending after sampling the festival’s savoury offerings.
Live music and family-friendly entertainment
Beyond the food, the festival atmosphere is enhanced by live concerts and DJ performances throughout the event. The combination of music, food, and a welcoming crowd creates a lively and enjoyable environment suitable for all ages. Whether you’re dancing to live tunes or relaxing with a burger in hand, there’s something for everyone.
Why you should visit Albox Burger Fest 2026
Albox Burger Fest 2026 is more than just a food event, it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and flavour. With gourmet burgers, delicious desserts, live entertainment, and free entry, it stands out as one of the top food festivals in Almería this spring. Don’t miss your chance to taste, vote, and discover the best burger in the region.
F1 star Oscar Piastri
Drivers threatened with ban ahead of Monaco Grand Prix after
UK Approves Lifetime Tobacco Ban For Everyone Born After 2008
-
New Developments3 weeks agoLuxury Villas For Sale, Estepona – ProjectL1
-
New Developments2 weeks agoStylish 3-Bedroom Apartment With Panoramic Sea Views – Benalmádena
-
%2 weeks agoPoland Disconnects Utilities At Russian Consulate That Moscow Refuses To Hand Over
-
eu response to spain migration policy2 weeks ago
Brussels warns Spain that migrants regularised under controversial scheme will be deported back to Spain if they try to move to other EU countries
-
Uncategorized3 weeks agoLewis Hamilton goes from Karate Kid to Samurai Warrior with Kill Bill guru
-
AER Lingus3 weeks ago
High-speed internet at 35,000 feet: Aer Lingus launches Starlink Wi‑Fi
-
Uncategorized4 weeks agoF1 legend Martin Brundle reveals the thing he hates about living in London
-
Uncategorized3 weeks agoHow Lewis Hamilton spent break with A-list star