Наталья Гончарова Calpe, Spain

07/01/2025

As of December 2, 2024, updated requirements for registering tourists have come into effect in Spain, aimed at strengthening control in the tourism sector.

Key changes:
Mandatory guest registration:
All accommodation providers are required to collect an expanded set of information on guests over the age of 14 and submit this data daily to the Ministry of the Interior of Spain.
Information to be collected includes:
Passport details.
Address of residence and registration.
Contact phone numbers.
Email address.
Payment card information.
Information on family relationships.
Data storage:
All collected data must be stored in digital format for three years.
Penalties for non-compliance:
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines ranging from €100 to €30,000.
Timely registration of guests and providing complete information will help accommodation providers meet the new requirements and avoid potential fines.

Reactions to the new regulations:
Spanish Hotel Association:
The association has expressed disagreement with the new measures and plans to file a lawsuit. In their opinion, the new requirements will complicate the check-in process for guests, as additional bureaucracy will cause delays in registration.
Impact on accommodations:
The regulation applies not only to hotels but also to rental properties. Many landlords are planning to implement online registration systems to automate the process.
Criticism from the hospitality sector:
Workers in the hotel and tourism industries criticize the high bureaucratic burden and the potential violation of travelers’ privacy.
Concerns from travelers:
Many travelers are worried about the possibility of their personal data being leaked.
Government stance:
Authorities believe this measure is necessary to ensure security and prevent the movement of criminals.

18/12/2024

**The Art of Simple Happiness**

Under the generous Spanish sun, we’ve discovered that happiness doesn’t lie in abundance, but in simplicity. Here, life unfolds differently. The mornings greet us with golden light, and all it takes to lift our spirits is a glimpse of the sea.

We’ve traded cars for long walks, finding joy in the rhythm of our footsteps. Our wardrobes have simplified too — comfortable shoes and light clothes now suffice. Fur coats and designer bags? They’re memories of another life, one that feels distant and unnecessary.

Even food has changed its meaning. What once were rare delicacies are now daily comforts, while sweets are bought only during Christmas, just as the locals do. Gift-giving has become refreshingly modest: a small token, a heartfelt gesture, enough to convey care.

Celebrations here spill into the streets, free for all to join. Parades of horses, camels, and glittering costumes move through town squares accompanied by lively music. And the music! It isn’t streamed or curated — it echoes from plazas and alleys, filling the air with unpretentious joy.

Education, ambition, possessions — they seem less significant under this sky. Office workers might have titles, but those who labor outdoors wear the sun on their skin and a smile on their faces. Happiness, it seems, isn’t something to achieve but something to be.

Here, we’ve learned the art of being content. To smile at strangers, to greet each day with gratitude, and to leave behind the burdens that cannot follow us. What remains is what truly matters: peace, connection, and the gentle warmth of the sun, carried quietly in our hearts.

Let this be the lesson of Spain — happiness is simpler than we ever imagined.

10/12/2024

26/11/2024

Life in Spain: Between the Beach and the Old Town
When I moved to Spain, I imagined life by the sea to be the paradise shown in glossy brochures—white sandy beaches, soothing waves, and endless sunsets. But reality turned out to be a bit… livelier. I now live in a penthouse in the old town, my main home, while renting out two beachfront apartments to tourists. Each place is a world of its own, filled with surprises and music (literally).

Beachfront: The Sea, Seagulls, and Endless Noise
My two beachfront apartments feel like open-air theaters. I jokingly call them «Row Seven» and «Row Three»—the seventh and third floors, respectively. From Row Seven, the view is so spectacular, it feels like the sea belongs to you. That is, until the seagulls swoop in, close enough to wonder who’s the real tenant here.
Row Three? That’s the «front-row seats.» The beach is just a whisper away, and if you feel chatty, you can start a conversation with sunbathers. Sometimes kayakers paddle so close, it’s as if they’re about to ask for your paella recipe. And the cafés below? A symphony of life—starting with breakfasts and lasting until the final sangria of the night. Laughter, guitars, clinking glasses, and the smell of grilled sardines fill the air. Quiet? A myth. But who needs silence when every day feels like a fiesta?

The Old Town: Orchestras, Parades, and Evening Calm
My old town penthouse is a completely different Spain. Here, instead of café chatter, you’ll hear the rhythms of marching drums and brass bands. Local musicians rehearse in nearby studios or on cobbled streets, filling the air with energy. Spaniards adore their parades—you don’t need a festival to hear a marching tune. Sometimes, it feels like my terrace is the VIP section for an impromptu concert.
And then there’s the delicate chime of the church bells, as if marking the significance of every moment. It’s not intrusive, but rather a soft melody that blends seamlessly with the sounds of the town. Narrow streets, the aroma of coffee and croissants, and even the rooftop cats—regal and aloof, as if they’ve known you forever—all create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

13/11/2024

Booking apartments from private owners offers more than just affordable rates and flexible terms; it allows you to directly connect with someone who knows their property inside and out. Who else can reveal the best hidden beach spots, navigate you through traffic shortcuts, and recommend the café with the perfect tapas? A dedicated owner will be available, ready to answer any questions and help make your stay unforgettable.

But how can you ensure everything is genuine?

Look for Reviews. A good owner always cares about their property’s reputation. Look up reviews on platforms, ask friends who have stayed in private rentals for recommendations. A solid reputation speaks volumes.
Photos and Reality. A genuine owner is happy to provide more – ask for additional photos or a video tour of the apartment. Nobody knows every detail better than the person who lives and breathes this space.
The Secrets of a Secure Transaction: Don’t Be Afraid to Check
Private rentals may raise concerns, but that’s no reason to shy away. Just follow these simple steps to ensure your booking is safe and transparent:

Check Profiles on Platforms. Reliable owners often list their properties on multiple trusted resources. Look for their profiles on Airbnb or similar sites, where you can find reviews, verified information, and guarantees.
Talk on the Phone. A real conversation can tell you more about a person than any photo. Ask for a phone or video call. A genuine owner will be happy to show you the property and answer all your questions.
Pay Attention to Details. If comments on the listing are turned off or you’re asked to transfer money outside the system, be cautious. Honest owners are open to communication and transparent terms.

12/10/2024

The new short-term rental regulations in Spain, which took effect in August 2024, include the following key points:

Rental limitation: According to the law, property owners can rent out their homes for short-term tourist purposes for a maximum of 60 days per year. This restriction applies when renting is not the owner’s primary activity. The rule covers the entire property rather than individual rooms and applies regardless of whether the property is rented to one family or several tenants throughout the year​
IDEALISTA
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VALENCIA PLAZA
Main source of income: If renting out the property is the owner’s primary source of income, these properties are subject to stricter regulations and must be registered as professional rental units. In this case, the owner must comply with all tax and legal obligations, which makes the process more complex but allows for longer rental periods​
VALENCIA & MALAGA LAWYERS
These changes aim to regulate the short-term rental market, prevent illegal operations, and improve coordination between tourism platforms and local authorities.

12/10/2024

In today’s news on channel 24, they talked about new rules for renting homes in Spain starting in 2024. Here are the main points:

Limit on rent increases: In 2024, landlords can only raise the rent by a maximum of 3%. This is to prevent rent from becoming too expensive. In 2023, the limit was 2%.
New rules for landlords: Now, landlords must pay real estate agency fees instead of renters, which used to be more common.
Easier for renters: Renters won’t have to pay property taxes or garbage collection fees anymore. This makes renting a bit more affordable.
These changes are meant to help people who rent homes and make the housing market in Spain fairer and more accessible.

27/09/2024

Italian Evening at Jacaranda Restaurant
Golf Club Altea
September 28, 19:30

You are cordially invited to an unforgettable Italian evening at Jacaranda Restaurant, set amidst the stunning scenery of Golf Club Altea. Join us on September 28th at 19:30 for a night filled with elegance, music, and the vibrant energy of Italy.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine, enjoy live music, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere surrounded by friends and laughter.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary celebration of Italian culture and style!

23/05/2024

12/08/2023

Новый Этап В Управлении Недвижимостью: Интресные Детали О Новой Программе

Дорогие друзья и подписчики блога! Сегодня я хочу поделиться с вами захватывающей находкой, которая делает управление моими апартаментами на пляже в Испании более эффективным и удобным. Я обнаружила программу , которая позволяет мне легко и быстро регистрировать заявки гостей, взаимодействовать с ними и следить за календарем бронирований. И это только начало!

Несомненно, многие из вас знают, как важно поддерживать позитивное взаимодействие с гостями, особенно когда дело касается аренды апартаментов на пляже. Эта программа помогает мне поддерживать прозрачное и продуктивное общение с клиентами, предоставляя им важную информацию и ответы на их вопросы.

Ключевые особенности программы:

Простота использования: Программа предоставляет интуитивный интерфейс, который даже новички смогут использовать без проблем. Нет необходимости в долгих обучениях или сложных инструкциях.
Регистрация заявок: Я мгновенно фиксирую все заявки гостей и сохраняю важные детали, такие как имя, даты заезда и количество гостей.
Автоматические напоминания: Никакие детали не ускользнут! Программа предоставляет функцию автоматических напоминаний, помогая мне вовремя возвращаться к клиентам для дополнительной информации или подтверждения бронирования.
Календарь бронирований: Я больше не боюсь пересечения бронирований. Программа предоставляет ясный и легко читаемый календарь, который помогает мне следить за доступностью апартаментов.
Эта программа помогает мне поддерживать наши взаимоотношения с гостями на новом уровне. Независимо от того, сколько апартаментов у вас, эта программа предоставляет удобство и организацию, которые помогут вам сосредоточиться на самом главном - предоставить гостям незабываемый отдых!

11/08/2023

Великолепные Праздники Испании для Всех

Дорогие путешественники и обожатели культуры, добро пожаловать в захватывающий мир Испании, где праздники и события – это подлинная живопись наследия и традиций.

Испания, как будто дышит праздниками, где в каждом мероприятии слышны торжественные звуки оркестра, радостные шествия и звуки салютов. Столь яркие события, как впечатляющие фейерверки, сверкающие танцы, чувственные ритмы костюмированных парадов и бег быков вписаны в сущность страны.

Абсолютное большинство этих событий поддерживается муниципалитетами, и наполняется бюджетами, делая их доступными для всех желающих. Такая забота о культурном наследии и праздничной атмосфере придает мероприятиям особый оттенок всеобщего ликования и единства.

Величие частых общественных праздников как бы намекает, что для создания своих собственных событий у вас просто не останется сил.

Интересно, что многие испанские праздники напоминают великолепное искусство театральных представлений. Костюмированные шествия, украшенные даже верблюдами и лошадьми, создают фантастическое театральное действо на улицах городов. Открытые вечерние концерты и кулинарные фестивали добавляют яркие краски испанской ночи, а сногсшибательные наряды погружают в атмосферу исторических событий.

Итак, путешественники, мы с вами заглянули в красочный мир испанских праздников.

09/08/2023

Estimada Ana, Alcaldesa de Calpe,

Quiero comunicarle cuán profundamente agradecida estoy por su acogida y por permitirme presentar mi libro sobre Calpe.

Deseo expresar mi gratitud por su labor, por su cuidado hacia esta maravillosa ciudad. Con su ayuda, los cambios se están produciendo en todas partes: la iluminación de las calles, la vegetación, las nuevas rutas para bicicletas, escaleras mecánicas, grandes fiestas y celebraciones. Nos alegramos junto con los habitantes.

Decidimos crear esta guía de la ciudad de Calpe, que podría transmitir fácilmente la atmósfera de la ciudad y hablar sobre el estilo de vida junto al mar.

El libro está dirigido a lectores para quienes es importante que una guía sea como un compendio de consejos prácticos; para las lectoras de revistas de moda, es como una lectura liviana para el avión o la playa. En el avión o en la playa tendrán tiempo para leer esta guía, el tiempo de lectura es aproximadamente dos horas.

El libro crea la sensación de estar presente. Es algo intermedio entre una guía y las impresiones personales sobre Calpe. Es un trabajo del autor: he incorporado la fantasía para que nuestros visitantes puedan tener una idea de Calpe incluso antes de llegar a España, gracias a un índice conveniente.

¿Para qué sirve el libro? No solo para orientar a los visitantes en una ciudad desconocida, sino para cargarlos de emociones y enamorarlos de la ciudad de Calpe. El libro responde a la pregunta de por qué definitivamente vale la pena volver aquí, revela secretos sobre el alquiler de apartamentos y el descanso en la playa.

Considero que para aquellos que se embarcan en un viaje a Calpe, es muy importante tener un relato emocional del autor, por lo que vale la pena adquirir este libro único.