The rent of 25 square meter mini-apartments skyrockets to 1,000 euros per month

In Madrid, rental prices for small apartments of 25 square meters have surged to nearly 1,000 euros per month, with no listings below 500 euros. The high demand and limited supply have led to substandard living conditions and increased costs. Reports from Idealista indicate Madrid as the second most expensive city in Spain for rentals. The article highlights personal struggles of tenants and the growing trend of landlords circumventing rental laws to maximize profits. Political figures from Más Madrid and the Socialist Parliamentary Group call for stricter regulations to address the housing crisis and prevent exploitative rental practices.

le Studio, the spectacular leather jewelry brand

Maria Sole Ferragamo, founder of So-le Studio, introduces a new competitor in the luxury jewelry market with her innovative leather pieces. Utilizing leftover materials like leather and brass, she creates luminous and lightweight jewelry that mimics the appearance of precious metals. The brand, which started in London and is now based in Milan, emphasizes upcycling and artistic creation. Each collection is defined by durability, versatility, and a sense of provocation, with new designs released annually. The article highlights the brand's craftsmanship and Maria's creative philosophy.

BMW has a new 'Art Car' and it is the work of the prestigious artist Jeff Koons

BMW has introduced 'The 8 X Jeff Koons' as the latest addition to its Art Car Collection, designed by renowned American artist Jeff Koons. This limited edition model, based on the M850i XDrive Gran Coupé, features a hand-painted exterior with pop art elements and a unique interior design. Only 99 units are available, each accompanied by a certificate signed by Koons. The car is both a collectible piece and a functional vehicle, embodying the dynamic and expressive qualities of Koons' art.

The 'indignados' of 15-M, ten years later

The 15-M movement, which began on May 15, 2011, in Madrid's Puerta del Sol, remains relevant for many of its participants who continue to advocate for social and economic reforms. Key figures like Juan, Silvia, Enrique, Marta, and Olivia reflect on the movement's impact, emphasizing the ongoing issues of precariousness and the need for citizen awareness beyond institutional politics. The movement is remembered for its genuine and defining nature, fostering projects like social economy initiatives and time banks. Despite the challenges in changing systemic structures, the movement's legacy persists in the form of continued activism and community engagement.

The 'indignados' of 15-M, ten years later

The article reflects on the 15-M movement in Spain, ten years after its inception. It highlights the perspectives of five individuals who were part of the movement, discussing the ongoing relevance of the issues they protested against, such as economic precarity and the need for political reform. The movement is remembered for its impact on social consciousness and the creation of alternative political and social projects. Despite the challenges and limited institutional changes, the participants emphasize the personal and collective lessons learned from the movement.

COVID-19 drives the exodus of young people from Madrid to their places of origin

The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with job insecurity and high housing costs, has prompted many young people to leave Madrid and return to their hometowns. Individuals like Lucas, a 29-year-old from the Canary Islands, and Álex, a 25-year-old political science student, have decided to move back to their places of origin for better living conditions and the possibility of remote work. The INJUVE's study highlights that only 33.5% of young people aged 16 to 29 are employed, and many have stopped actively looking for work. The president of the INJUVE, María Teresa Pérez, and the president of the Youth Council of the Community of Madrid, Laura Moreno, have both commented on the dire situation for Madrid's youth, emphasizing the need for regional support to make the area more attractive and prevent further exodus.

Hotel Covid-19 Closes: The Four-Star Hotel Shelter for Homeless People with Coronavirus

A four-star hotel in Madrid, transformed into a shelter for homeless individuals with mild coronavirus symptoms, is closing after two months. Managed by the Ayuntamiento de Madrid and Cruz Roja Española, the hotel provided temporary housing for over 220 people. The closure raises concerns about the future of these individuals, with some being redirected to other resources. The initiative involved a multidisciplinary team and volunteers, highlighting the city's efforts to support vulnerable populations during the pandemic.

Return to in-person work: 'What do we do with the children?'

As Spain progresses with its COVID-19 de-escalation plan, parents face challenges returning to in-person work while their children cannot attend school. Families struggle with childcare options, often unable to afford a caregiver and reluctant to rely on grandparents due to infection risks. Workers report pressure from employers to return to the office, with some facing ultimatums or insensitive comments. The Madrid community plans to allow primary students needing reinforcement to return to class in phase 2, with voluntary return to preschools in phase 3, provided health guarantees are met. Parents juggle telework with childcare, and there are concerns about children's safety and emotional well-being upon returning to school under new pandemic-related restrictions.

Return to On-Site Work: 'What Do We Do with the Children?'

As Spain progresses in easing lockdown measures, many parents face challenges returning to on-site work while schools remain closed. Families struggle with childcare, often relying on grandparents despite COVID-19 risks. The Madrid government plans a phased school reopening, but parents express concerns about safety and the emotional impact on children. Economic pressures and lack of support exacerbate the situation, with some parents forced to choose between work and family care.

Online parties to enjoy in the living room during the coronavirus

Initiatives inspired by early lockdowns in China and Italy have led to the creation of online music festivals in Spain, such as the 'Vibramos contigo' by Teatro Barceló and the Cuarentena Fest. These events aim to provide entertainment and emotional support during the COVID-19 lockdown. Musicians perform live from their homes, and audiences can join via social media platforms. The Cuarentena Fest features over fifty artists, and donations are encouraged to support them. Other virtual events include the YoMeQuedoEnCasaFestival and performances by Catholic artists to spread hope. The article highlights the positive impact of these initiatives on both artists and audiences.