by Paul | May 3, 2025 | Uncategorised
The skies between Malaga and New York are busy once again as United Airlines kicks off its fourth consecutive summer season of daily direct flights between the Costa del Sol and the United States. This highly anticipated connection, linking Malaga Airport (AGP) with Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), remains the only non-stop route between Andalucía and the U.S., underscoring Malaga’s growing status as a strategic hub for tourism, business, and international investment.
The first flight of the 2025 season touched down smoothly just before its scheduled arrival at 7:32 a.m., operated by a Boeing 757-200 with 176 seats, including 16 United Polaris business class beds. According to United, the aircraft departed with near-full occupancy—a strong indicator of sustained demand from both U.S. and Spanish travelers.
Running daily until September 24, 2025, this seasonal route is more than a convenient travel option — it's a symbol of Malaga’s rising global relevance. Early check-in counters at AGP were abuzz with travelers on opening day, many heading to the U.S. for the first time. While there were no formal celebrations, the return of the route highlights how this once-experimental seasonal flight has evolved into a cornerstone of regional air connectivity.
Local tourism boards and business associations continue to advocate for the service to become year-round, citing consistent demand outside the summer months. For now, United Airlines is monitoring performance closely, balancing fleet allocation with global network priorities. The airline has significantly expanded its presence in Spain in recent years, now flying not only from Madrid and Barcelona but also from Malaga, Bilbao, and Palma de Mallorca.
In fact, United’s 2025 offering includes more than 51,000 seats on the Malaga–New York route alone, a 280% increase compared to just two years ago. Antonio de Toro, United’s Head of Sales for Spain, has reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to Malaga, pointing to strong forward bookings and growing American interest in southern Spain.
That interest is not confined to tourism. According to the latest data, the United States was the fifth-largest international source market for hotel and vacation rental stays in the province of Malaga in 2024, up from sixth place the previous year. U.S. visitor numbers have grown steadily, even during the months without a direct flight, suggesting deepening ties between the regions.
For many professionals and investors, this connection is more than a flight—it’s a gateway. The Costa del Sol, long known for its luxury lifestyle and real estate, is attracting an increasing number of American buyers looking for vacation homes, relocations, and property investments. With high-speed rail, Mediterranean beaches, Michelin-starred dining, and now direct air access to the U.S., Malaga is becoming an increasingly strategic choice for high-net-worth individuals.
Those exploring premium real estate opportunities across Malaga, Marbella, and the broader Costa del Sol can benefit from experienced, locally rooted advisors. At Luxe-Villa.com, clients receive curated property portfolios and investment insights tailored to long-term goals. For bespoke advice or to schedule a consultation, contact info@luxe-villa.com.
As Malaga continues to elevate its position on the global stage, this daily transatlantic link plays a pivotal role — not just in travel, but in creating new channels for commerce, tourism, and cross-border investment. The 2025 season could very well be a tipping point for making this vital route a permanent fixture in United’s global network.
by Paul | Apr 26, 2025 | Uncategorised
In 2025, the Costa del Sol is once again living up to its reputation as one of Europe’s most desirable regions—not just for its golden beaches and enviable climate, but as a robust and strategic choice for property investment and lifestyle relocation. As the global market steadies after years of uncertainty, this stunning stretch of southern Spain offers a unique combination of sunshine, stability, and smart opportunity.
A Market Built on Resilience
The Costa del Sol has seen a steady and sustainable rise in property values this year, with prices climbing 5–7% in key areas such as Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, and Málaga. This growth is not speculative—it’s backed by consistent demand from both domestic and international buyers.
From Northern Europe and the UK to North America, buyers are increasingly drawn to the Costa del Sol thanks to improved travel connectivity, a post-pandemic emphasis on lifestyle, and the flexibility of remote work. The region’s real estate market has matured, with more informed buyers, higher quality developments, and a noticeable shift away from fast turnover investments to long-term, lifestyle-driven purchases.
More Than an Investment: A Lifestyle
The allure of the Costa del Sol has always been its lifestyle, and in 2025, this continues to be a key driver. With over 320 days of sunshine a year, breathtaking beaches, top-tier golf courses, and a thriving food and culture scene, the region offers a Mediterranean lifestyle that is hard to beat.
Málaga, in particular, has become a standout destination. Once overlooked as just a gateway to the coast, the city now enjoys global recognition for its cultural vibrancy, cutting-edge culinary offerings, and growing reputation as a tech hub.
A notable trend this year is the rise of “wellness living.” Developers are leaning into sustainability and wellbeing—designing energy-efficient homes, integrating wellness spaces like spas and yoga studios, and placing a stronger emphasis on community living. For today’s buyer, it’s not just about square meters—it’s about quality of life.
The Remote Work Revolution
Spain’s newly introduced digital nomad visa, rolled out in late 2024, has further boosted interest in the region. Professionals from across Europe and beyond are choosing to base themselves along the Costa del Sol—attracted by the weather, affordable luxury, and reliable internet infrastructure.
Málaga is now ranked among Europe’s top mid-sized cities for innovation, with an influx of startups and tech professionals reshaping the coast’s traditional image. The result? A dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
Areas Gaining Momentum
While Marbella and Puerto Banús remain glamorous staples, emerging areas are catching the eye of buyers looking for value without compromise.
- Estepona – Offers a blend of contemporary new builds, charming old town atmosphere, and excellent amenities.
- San Pedro de Alcántara – A family-friendly area growing rapidly, with schools, restaurants, and beach access.
- Benahavís & Mijas Pueblo – Quiet, picturesque towns just minutes from the coast.
- The New Golden Mile – A stylish and more affordable alternative to Marbella.
- Sotogrande – Known for its gated luxury, golf courses, and high-end sporting facilities.
What’s Next for 2025?
Experts are forecasting continued stability through the end of the year. The market no longer feels speculative—it feels solid. Buyers are increasingly well-informed, and demand is driven by a blend of lifestyle ambition and sound financial reasoning.
Whether you’re relocating, investing, or simply seeking a better quality of life, the Costa del Sol stands out in 2025 as more than a destination—it’s a decision. A decision for sunshine, wellbeing, and lasting value.
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by Paul | Apr 19, 2025 | Uncategorised
The Costa del Sol continues to dazzle—not just with its sunny skies and Mediterranean charm, but with one of the hottest real estate markets in Spain. Malaga, the vibrant capital of the region, has just posted the second-highest increase in residential property prices across the country, marking a significant 16.1% year-on-year growth. Only Madrid has outpaced it, with a 17.9% increase.
This puts Malaga far ahead of Spain’s national average growth rate of 10.3%, further cementing its reputation as a magnet for both domestic and international property investors. In practical terms, the average price per square meter in Malaga city has now reached €2,757—almost €1,000 more than the Spanish national average.
With this leap, Malaga is now the fifth most expensive provincial capital in Spain, following the likes of San Sebastian (€4,455/m²), Madrid (€3,971/m²), Barcelona (€3,842/m²), and Palma de Mallorca (€3,085/m²). Even more telling is the momentum: in just the first quarter of 2025, housing prices in Malaga rose by 2.9%, nearly double the national quarterly average.
Beyond the city itself, the broader Malaga province also stands out. It has seen a 12.3% annual increase in property values—leading all mainland provinces and trailing only Santa Cruz de Tenerife (12.9%). Other coastal hubs like Valencia, Alicante, and Murcia also posted solid double-digit growth, but Malaga remains a standout performer.
This strong growth has elevated Malaga province to be one of the most expensive in Spain, with an average square meter price of €2,709. It now surpasses traditional heavyweights such as Vizcaya and even Barcelona in provincial rankings—a striking shift that underlines the Costa del Sol’s growing allure.
Of course, this upward trajectory hasn’t been mirrored uniformly across the country. While the south and east coasts thrive, provinces like Orense, Badajoz, Córdoba, and Burgos have recorded falling property prices—highlighting the regional disparities in economic dynamism and housing demand.
Interestingly, even as property prices climb, Malaga’s rental market is showing early signs of stabilization. After two years of double-digit rent increases, recent data suggests a cooling trend. This could reflect an evolving balance in supply and demand, especially in the urban core, where affordability is increasingly coming into focus.
According to Gregorio Abril, Regional Director for Andalucía and Extremadura at leading valuation firm Gesvalt, Malaga’s position as a real estate frontrunner remains unshaken. “The figures from the last quarter of our housing report confirm Malaga’s leadership in both sales and rental prices in the region,” he said. “This reaffirms its appeal to both buyers and investors.”
He also noted that high demand—especially along the coast—is far outpacing the current supply of new homes. “We expect Malaga’s property market to maintain a steady growth trajectory in 2025,” Abril added, emphasizing that access to housing and inventory shortages will continue to be pressing challenges.
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Sotogrande, and La Zagaleta continue to attract attention for their luxury offerings and investment potential.
If you're exploring high-end opportunities on the Costa del Sol, expert guidance can make all the difference. For curated luxury properties and tailored investment advice across Malaga, Marbella, and beyond, visit www.luxe-villa.com or contact the team directly at info@luxe-villa.com.
by Paul | Apr 13, 2025 | Uncategorised
Malaga Airport is gearing up for a record-breaking Easter season, with an impressive 1,200 more flights scheduled compared to the same period last year. Starting today and running through to Monday, 21 April, the airport will handle a total of 5,875 flight operations, making it one of the busiest times ever for Andalucía's primary international gateway.
This year’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) coincides with mid-April — traditionally the start of the high tourist season — which is driving a major boost in air traffic. According to Aena, Spain's state airport operator, this marks a 25% increase in the number of flights over last year’s Easter period, with more than 500 flight movements every single day on the Costa del Sol’s runways.
Easter Travel Surge: What’s Behind the Numbers?
Easter falling later in the month has given both international tourists and local residents an extended opportunity to travel. As a result, demand for flights has surged. Whether it's northern Europeans heading to the sun-drenched beaches of Marbella or Spanish families jetting off to explore new destinations, Malaga Airport is once again proving to be a pivotal hub for spring travel.
Of the 5,875 flights scheduled over the Easter period, 80% are international routes, with 4,717 flights connecting Malaga to destinations across Europe and beyond. This figure alone surpasses the total number of flights — domestic and international combined — handled during Holy Week in 2024.
The airport currently offers flights to 148 destinations worldwide, operated by 53 airlines, reinforcing the Costa del Sol’s importance as a global travel hotspot.
Busiest Days Ahead
Easter Sunday is projected to be the busiest day at Malaga Airport, with 554 flights, including 438 international connections. Good Friday follows closely with 551 scheduled movements, of which 437 are international. Even the quieter days during this period, such as Holy Tuesday, will still see significant traffic, with 514 take-offs and landings — a figure that would have broken records just a year ago.
A Bellwether for the Tourism Industry
The significant spike in flight operations is not just good news for airlines, but a strong indicator of the health of the broader tourism economy in southern Spain. Despite some declines in domestic holiday travel, the enduring appeal of the Costa del Sol among European travelers continues to shine.
This surge underlines growing confidence among airlines and tourists alike, and reflects the return of high-season momentum for destinations like Marbella, Sotogrande, and La Zagaleta.
Real Estate Outlook: High Season, High Interest
With this influx of international visitors, interest in property investment in southern Spain is expected to see a parallel rise. Many travelers use holiday visits as an opportunity to explore real estate in the area — especially in luxury markets like Marbella, Sotogrande, and Zagaleta.
For those considering making the Costa del Sol their home — or second home — this Easter season is an ideal time to explore. With a wide range of premium properties and insider expertise, the team at Luxe Villa is ready to assist.
For more information, property listings, or guidance on buying in southern Spain, visit www.luxe-villa.com or email info@luxe-villa.com.
by Paul | Apr 5, 2025 | Uncategorised
The province of Malaga is home to more than 40,000 British residents, with many more owning properties and spending part of the year in the region. For those looking to make their stay more permanent, navigating Spanish residency and legal requirements can be a complex process.
To address these concerns, SUR in English, in collaboration with British consular services in Spain and Marbella town hall, hosted an informative event on Friday, 4 April, at the Palacio de Congresos fair and conference centre in Marbella. The event brought together experts from various sectors to provide essential guidance on residency, legal matters, insurance, and taxation.
Navigating Post-Brexit Changes for British Residents
The UK's departure from the EU five years ago brought significant changes for British nationals living in Spain. The British consular services in Spain play a crucial role in assisting both residents and tourists, ensuring they are aware of their rights and obligations. One of the key objectives of the Marbella event was to help British nationals understand these changes and how they impact residency, property ownership, and financial planning.
Lucy Gorman, Consular Regional Operations Manager for Spain and Andorra, along with Malaga Vice-Consul Miriam Pérez, addressed a range of issues affecting British nationals. They provided insights into the latest regulations and answered pressing questions about residence permits and welfare benefits for UK citizens in Spain.
Expert Legal, Insurance, and Tax Advice
Alongside representatives from the British Consulate, the event featured a panel of experts offering guidance on legal, insurance, and tax matters.
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Jonathan Sutton – Spanish lawyer ('abogado') and partner at Decotta Law, who provided clarity on legal processes, including property law and residency applications.
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Diana Lise Pérez Buck – Department of Institutional Relations and Sustainability at Allianz Insurance, who offered advice on healthcare and insurance options for British nationals.
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Bryan Wawman – CEO of Castle Rock International Law & Investments, who discussed financial planning and investment strategies for expatriates.
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Pablo Espejo Vergara – Partner in Andalucía at Martínez Echevarría, who tackled taxation concerns, particularly changes affecting British residents post-Brexit.
Key Takeaways from the Event
The discussions highlighted the importance of staying informed about local regulations and seeking professional advice to avoid potential legal and financial pitfalls. Key points included:
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Residency Applications: British nationals must ensure they have the correct paperwork for residency applications, including proof of sufficient financial means and healthcare coverage.
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Tax Implications: The shift in tax status for UK nationals living in Spain means it is crucial to understand tax obligations, including wealth and inheritance tax considerations.
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Healthcare and Insurance: Access to healthcare for UK nationals in Spain has changed post-Brexit, making private insurance an increasingly important option.
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Property Investment: Spain remains a popular destination for British property buyers, but legal guidance is recommended to navigate local property laws and taxation issues effectively.
Looking Ahead: Support for British Nationals in Spain
With an ever-growing British community in Spain, events like this play a vital role in keeping residents and prospective movers informed. British consular services remain a valuable resource for those needing guidance on legal, residency, and welfare matters.
For those looking for further assistance, a wide selection of properties and support with purchasing homes in Sotogrande, Marbella, La Zagaleta, and other areas of Southern Spain is available. Visit www.luxe-villa.com
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As Spain continues to be a favored destination for UK nationals, staying updated on legal, financial, and residency matters will ensure a smooth transition for those planning to settle in this beautiful country.
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