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José den Herder

IBI & Basura in Spain: the reference date determines who paysFinance & Taxes

IBI & Basura in Spain: the reference date determines who pays

When buying or selling a property in Spain, questions often arise about municipal taxes, particularly the IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, property tax) and the basura (waste collection tax). Who is actually responsible for paying these taxes when a property changes hands?

By José den Herder·February 12, 2026
4 min read
The flavours of the Valencian Community: more than just paellaCulture & Lifestyle

The flavours of the Valencian Community: more than just paella

If you ask someone about typical Valencian food, chances are you'll get ‘paella’ as an answer. Understandable, because this world-famous rice dish originates from the region around Valencia. But if you look beyond the classic tourist menus, you'll discover a culinary tradition that is richer, more varied and more surprising than you might think.

By José den Herder·February 12, 2026
9 min read
Soft Pink Blossom and Sweet Traditions: Almonds on the Costa BlancaFiestas & Events

Soft Pink Blossom and Sweet Traditions: Almonds on the Costa Blanca

Anyone visiting the northern Costa Blanca in winter and early spring cannot fail to notice it: hills and valleys turn white and soft pink with almond blossom. Around villages such as Jalón, Alcalalí and Benissa, the landscape resembles a fairy tale and marks the beginning of one of the region’s most characteristic products: the almond.

By José den Herder·February 11, 2026
7 min read
Cl@ve and the digital certificate: what are they and what is the difference between them?Finance & Taxes

Cl@ve and the digital certificate: what are they and what is the difference between them?

Anyone who lives, works, invests or owns property in Spain increasingly has to deal with digital government services. Taxes, social security and many administrative procedures are now handled almost entirely online. In all these cases, you need some form of digital identification or electronic signature.

By José den Herder·January 22, 2026
7 min read
The golden elixir of the Costa Blanca – olive oil!Culture & Lifestyle

The golden elixir of the Costa Blanca – olive oil!

If you live on the northern Costa Blanca or are on holiday there, you can't miss them: olive trees. They are everywhere – from the valleys around Jalón and Llíber to the hills near Altea and Dénia. And all these trees together produce one of the region's most typical products: extra virgin olive oil, with its many health benefits. The oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, contains monounsaturated fats and is good for the heart and blood vessels. This makes it part of the Mediterranean diet,

By José den Herder·August 8, 2025
8 min read
Golf on the Costa Blanca: where your swing is just as important as your sunglassesCulture & Lifestyle

Golf on the Costa Blanca: where your swing is just as important as your sunglasses

The Costa Blanca North is known for sun, sea and... sand wedges. In addition to beaches and tapas, this region is also a serious hotspot for golfers. You can play here practically all year round, in short sleeves, with views of mountains, palm trees or even the Mediterranean Sea. From Oliva to Alicante, golf courses are scattered like well-placed bunkers: sometimes challenging, sometimes forgiving, but always well maintained and with excellent facilities. Whether you are a seasoned single handic

By José den Herder·August 4, 2025
8 min read
Mediterranean honey: the sweet, full flavour of sun, sea and flowersCulture & Lifestyle

Mediterranean honey: the sweet, full flavour of sun, sea and flowers

Along the roads of the northern Costa Blanca, olive and almond groves alternate, while bees buzz among wild rosemary, thyme and orange blossom. Honey has been produced in this Mediterranean landscape for centuries – a craft that has remained very much alive. Bees play an indispensable role in pollinating crops and provide a regional product that captures the flavours of nature: honey full of Mediterranean character.

By José den Herder·July 31, 2025
8 min read
Pádel: The sport taking Spain by storm (and not just Spain)Culture & Lifestyle

Pádel: The sport taking Spain by storm (and not just Spain)

If you've ever been on holiday along the Northern Costa Blanca — in places like Jávea, Moraira, Altea, La Nucía, or Dénia — you’ve probably seen them: glass-walled courts where men and women enthusiastically swing what look like perforated tennis rackets. Welcome to the world of pádel! Pádel has become so big in Spain that it's now even more popular than tennis. And that’s no surprise — it’s easy to pick up, quick to learn, and above all, very social. Whether you're having a friendly match with

By José den Herder·June 5, 2025
5 min read
Sporty and cultural day trips from the Costa BlancaTravelling & Costa Blanca Region

Sporty and cultural day trips from the Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca North is a beautiful region that has so much more to offer than sun, sea and sand. For those who want to discover adventure beyond the beach, there are plenty of unique destinations within easy reach. From islands and waterfalls to historic caves and picturesque villages, the Costa Blanca North is the perfect base for a diverse selection of day trips. Below are some of the best locations to explore, with ideas for every type of traveller.

By José den Herder·May 16, 2025
5 min read
Costa Blanca North markets - an overviewCulture & Lifestyle

Costa Blanca North markets - an overview

The Markets of the Costa Blanca North The Costa Blanca North is known for its beautiful coastline and charming villages such as Dénia, Jávea, Moraira, Calpe, Benitachell, Altea and Benidorm. But in addition to sun, sea and sand, this region has much more to offer. One of the best ways to experience the real Spain is to visit the many weekly markets, the covered market halls, flea markets or medieval markets. Whether you are looking for fresh local produce for your daily shopping, a unique local

By José den Herder·May 13, 2025
8 min read
Wealth tax for non-residents in Spain: what you need to knowFinance & Taxes

Wealth tax for non-residents in Spain: what you need to know

Do you have assets in Spain but do not live there permanently? Then it is important to know how Spanish wealth tax works for non-residents. In this blog, we explain clearly when you have to pay tax, what exactly is taxed and what exemptions there are.

By José den Herder·May 12, 2025
3 min read
Inspiration guide for creating a Mediterranean garden in SpainTips & Tricks

Inspiration guide for creating a Mediterranean garden in Spain

Spain is the ideal country for those who love the outdoors. The Mediterranean climate with lots of sun, high temperatures and long periods without rain offers numerous possibilities to get the most out of your garden and terrace. In contrast to Northern Europe (such as the Netherlands and Belgium), where the climate is often more moderate and changeable, Spain has specific challenges that influence your garden design. Holiday homes in particular, where the garden is often an extension of the hou

By José den Herder·May 12, 2025
14 min read
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