I recently met a young man called Koen Darras, a self-proclaimed “Adventurer, Keynote Speaker and Content Creator”. He is the first person in history to climb the ten highest mountains of South America and Africa in succession and conquer the iconic peaks Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, and Eiger in just nine days.

From summiting Denali in Alaska to traversing entire continents, Koen is an undeniable risk-taker and he likes to film it all. He hopes that by pushing his own limits and sharing these expeditions as a full cinematic experience, he may inspire others to step out of their comfort zones too.

Once of his next objectives is to be the world’s first person to cross the Atlantic by kitesurf, some 5,000 kms and 60 days at sea. He plans to start out from the Canary Islands, travel via Cape Verde and then head towards the Caribbean. Although Koen will surf alone he will be accompanied by a sailing boat all the way and a very dedicated team.

In order to prepare for this 2027 mission Koen had been training in the Canary Islands and took the time to come to Marbella on his way back to Belgium to share his passion for this very ambitious adventure.

Koen was accompanied by his 10 year old daughter Lio, who kindly helped me with some recording for the TV interview that I with her dad. From just the brief encounter it was easy to see that she, like her father, embraces the belief that limits are only invitations.

What a great team they make and what an inspirational encounter all round.

Malaga residents have welcomed the public into their historic shared courtyards this Tuesday, 5 May, launching an annual celebration of communal living. These traditional spaces, located within La Trinidad and El Perchel neighbourhoods, provide a glimpse into a lifestyle defined by mutual support and harmonious co-living rather than private isolation. Anyone can explore the grounds until May 9 and will be warmly welcome to participate in historical walks and cultural talks that define this unique social experiment.

Community togetherness beat floral competition

Flowers cascading down whitewashed walls may well rival the famous displays in Cordoba patios, yet the real focus is on human interaction rather than individual spaces. These patios function as open-air living spaces where neighbours can, and do, share daily life, shared chores, and conversation. Maintaining these spaces requires year-round neighbourly dedication from those residing in the district, making sure that the local identity remains intact.

Participants view this week as a demonstration of social harmony rather than a simple contest for the most decorative garden, like in Cordoba. Everyone is safe; no one will be robbed, no one will dirty the area with graffiti or drop litter; everyone paints, hangs pictures, waters the plants and cleans the space.

Preserving social legacy in historic districts

Historical structures dating back to the 19th century continue to serve as essential residential spaces for the elderly. Recent renovation projects have helped maintain these buildings, allowing dozens of potentially vulnerable citizens to live with dignity and consistent care. Local residents stress that preserving such traditions is vital for maintaining the spirit of Malaga as well as looking after eachother. Such environments provide much-needed activity and social engagement for older generations who might otherwise face loneliness.

Challenges facing traditional neighbourhood fife

Concerns regarding the expansion of tourist accommodation weigh heavily on the minds of those living in these districts. Many fear that the rise of holiday rentals threatens the long-term viability of affordable social housing and their neighbourhoods. Local activists argue for more residential stability and fewer short-term lets to make sure that neighbourhood life continues to thrive.

Diminishing social participation and a lack of interest from younger generations present even more hurdles for the future of this tradition. Greater financial assistance and better incentives from authorities are now required to protect these living monuments of working-class history. The “Corralones” are open for everyone to visit until May 9.

Great news for those on the nautical scene, A refurbishment programme worth more than a whopping €3.6 million, has been approved for Benalmadena Marina to upgrade facilities and adapt the port to meet current nautical demands. Decisions were confirmed during a recent board meeting of the Puerto Deportivo, where several projects were authorised to improve much needed infrastructure and services. 

Plans include a major overhaul of the nautical centre, to enable the marina to better serve professionals and visitors. Works are looking to modernise installations and go toward ensuring the building meets present-day operational requirements.

Infrastructure and safety upgrades included

Investment will also support improvements to the port’s electrical system, for a more energy efficient and reliable power supply across the marina. Officials approved tender documents for this work during the same meeting, reinforcing the port’s focus on functionality and safety.

Bigger security measures form another part of the plan, with brand new access control barriers set to regulate entry to port areas. These additions are hoping to strengthen monitoring and improve the overall management of the facilities.

Breakwater project to strengthen protection

Coastal defence is another area included in the project. A contract has been awarded to draft a project for containment and breakwater works near the port entrance. This initiative aims to protect the marina from adverse weather conditions and improve operational resilience.

Broader management and financial steps

Board discussions went onto construction plans, covering internal organisational matters and financial oversight. Preparation of the 2025 annual accounts and adjustments to accounting balances were also addressed, reflecting ongoing administrative management of the marina. 

The Benalmadena Marina is one of the busiest, well loved and important on the Andalusian coast, because of its beautiful design and interior architecture, the number of berths and the wide range of leisure and entertainment options it offers.