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How would you feel about staying in Casa Amor, the infamous Spanish hideaway from reality show Love Island

It's the location where the most sh*t goes down in terms of heads getting turned, abandoning former partners and even cheating, but would you rent it?

It's now available to hire per week, but prices start at a whopping £5,503, rising to £8,630 pretty quickly. You can also buy the 'experience'  couples package for an extra £998 per night.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Love Island (@loveisland) on

You'd really want to be in love with someone to head to that special island, with prices like that. 

The Villa Retreats website shows off the abode online, but we only saw a small slice of the lavish home on TV it seems.

The iconic pad showcases a tree-lined entrance, four double bedrooms, shower rooms with free-standing baths and five bathrooms.

Some lovely greenery, a luxury swimming area, a cosy indoor fire-side lounge, a massive kitchen and some risque artwork are also featured in the stunning villa.

TheSun.co.uk reports that the outdoors section has plush hedgerows and busts of naked women (lol). The numerous unclothed artworks can be removed upon request, which we have to laugh at.

The website proudly refers to the Majorca Villa taking part in ITV’s Love Island, on their website.

The special Love Island Package, which offers guests experiences guaranteed to make you feel ready to head to the firepit and couple up.

Date night activities, a private chef and concierge,as well as a romantic bed filled with rose petals is included in the package.

Breakfast in bed and a variety of yoga, personal training or spa sessions cost extra, but we reckon it's worth it. The offer ends in December 2020, so whip out the cash ASAP.

Feature image: Villa Retreats/ITV

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We thought we'd heard it all after the whole 'don't put ice lollies up your vagina' warning yesterday, but this takes the cake.

According to The Sun, a Spanish lake in Galicia is gaining notoriety for social media influencers thanks to it's gorgeous turqoise waters and stunning aesthetic.

There's only one, minor downside. The crystal clear water of Monte Neme is actually a toxic waste dump, created by the Tungsten mine which was utilised during World War II.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@crib_92) on

According to reports, the mine was abandoned in the 1980s and the 'lake' is a large hole full of dangerously contaminated water. Lush.

A Spanish publication named Publico claimed that one person started getting sick after taking a dip in the luscious green water, and broke out in a rash that lasted for two weeks.

What did he have to say about his experience? "The photo was worth it." Wow, no wonder the earth is slowly dying.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@rin.067) on

Another Instagrammer told them that she "didn't see the warning signs" and went swimming because "the water looked very pretty."

Unfortunately for her, she later suffered from a two-week long skin irritation and vomiting bug. Do it for the 'gram, they said. It'll be worth it, they said.

Doctors have since spoken out about the health concerns which the lake can create.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@paulaquelle) on

Manuel Ferreiro, a doctor at University Hospital of Coruña, told The Local:

"Brief exposure will most likely cause eye and skin irritation but a longer time in the water and digestion of the toxins could cause stomach problems, vomiting and diarrhoea."

Personally, we'd avoid these waters at all costs but you can bet certain influencers will still make the journey to the lake.

Feature image: Instagram/@luisstarsky

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Colombian pop star Shakira has been summoned to appear in a Barcelona court following allegations that she illegally avoided €14.5 million in taxes.

Spanish media reports claim the singer and philanthropist has been accused of tax evasion since December of last year.

Prosecutors argue that she falsely claimed to live in the Bahamas when she lived in Catalonia, and is due in court on June 12 over the claims.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira) on

In Spain, only trials are public, therefore her hearing will take place privately behind closed doors.

Spanish state prosecutors accused the mother-of-two of fraud last year, claiming she had pretended to live abroad and use an existing complex offshore corporate structure to prevent herself meeting tax obligations between 2012 and 2014.

She began dating former Manchester United defender Pique in 2011 and moved back to Barcelona, so should supposedly have paid taxes on her worldwide earnings to Spanish tax services.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira) on

Shakira was previously a tax resident in the Bahamas but only registered in 2015 as a full tax resident. Those who spend over 183 days in a given calendar year in the country are obliged to pay tax as Spanish residents.

Tax inspectors have been following Shakira's finances for years, and she appeared in an investigation carried out by the Guardian in 2017 on offshore corporate finance. The Paradise Papers was carried out by other news organisations alongside the Guardian.

Despite paying the €14.5 million debt settlement, she hasn't been able to stop the case from going to court. Her lawyer insisted she had always fulfilled her tax obligations in accordance with the advice of her financial advisors in every country.

Feature image; Instagram/@shakira

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January is really a month for the winter blues. Christmas is a hazy memory, you can't quite shake that cold that's been bothering you, and summer seems like an eternity away.

Why not escape for a weekend to see some of Europe's most incredible sights, and stay in the best Airbnb's you can find. Treat yo'self, gowan.

Luckily for you, we've curated a list of some of the continent's best apartment finds.

We've already booked our flights straight out of Dublin airport, ASAP….

leaving steve martin GIF

1. Zagreb, Croatia

This new stylish apartment is in the perfect location in the centre of the beautiful Zagreb, on Križanićeva street.

For a quiet and safe space which is still central, this is one of the best areas to stay in. Close to the main city square, central bus and train station, everything is easily within walking distance.

A modern, contemporary apartment with a monochromatic décor theme, yet still so comfortable, this apartment is perfect. It can host three guests, and has two beds and a bath. 

New stylish central apartment
Price: €37 per night

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is an incredible city to visit, the Old Town is stunning and has a huge amount of history, and most of the town is within walking distance.

It also is home to some of the best pub crawls in the world, just sayin'. This gorgeous boutique apartment has us DROOLING.

The spacious design, the window panels allowing light to stream in, we just need to stay here ASAP.

The boutique apartment is located in the Bohemian Zizkov district, packed with unreal cafés, bars, restaurants and bars with some amazing views of Prague.

3. Paris, France

We have found a sunny, cosy studio apartment LITERALLY just down the road from the Eiffel Tower. What more would you need?

The charming apartment is ideal for an escape to the Parisian life; it's both residential and family-oriented.

There are windows throughout the apartment to let in the French sun, and the location is absolutely perfect; the seventh district of Les Invalides

Just picture yourself having a coffee and croissant downstairs, looking out the window at the Parisian aesthetic. We can.

4. Berlin, Germany

A 'superhost' owns this GORGEOUS Berlin apartment, which can house four guests and his also an absolute bargain of an offer for what you're getting.

The apartment is a short walking distance away from some of Berlin's top spots, with restaurants, shops and bars surrounding the area.

The subway station is only a seven minute walk away, and the location is both safe and central. You'll be prancing around Alexanderplatz in no time…

Design apartment
Price: €34 per night

5. Barcelona, Spain

This spacious loft is on Airbnb Plus, and for a good reason.

The stunning studio apartment has an actual JETTED TUB. Be still my beating travel heart. The location is extremely central; with the city's main sights within walking distance.

The New York-style space has exposed brick walls, high ceilings of rustic Catalan wood and bold modern art.

Catch some rays on the balcony and make use of the space's incredible amenities.

Spacious loft
€70 per night

6. Rome, Italy

This 'superhost' certified apartment in the centre of one of Europe's most renowned cities is GOALS.

The apartment can house up to four guests, and is located on the first floor of a beautiful palatial residence just minutes from the Piazza Della Repubblica.

The studio home is freshly renovated, filled with light and more luxurious than our future. We LOVE.

7. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

This stunning Georgian apartment in Edinburgh's New Town is one of the best Airbnb's on the market.

The loft is a ground floor flat in the famous area, with absolutely every part of the city within walking distance. The apartment is spacious, has fantastic amenities such as a bath, and even an indoor fireplace for those cold January months.

The beautiful home as Wi-Fi, free parking down the road and houses two guests easily, with comfort being the essential promise. 

New Town apartment 
€54 per night

8. Vienna, Austria

This sunny apartment is extremely sought after, for it's dedication to space and light.

It can house four guests, and they can each experience the unique, warm decor of the apartment while being close to the most famous parts of Vienna.

The metro station at Ober-St. Veit is only a seven minute walk away, with the home featuring a spacious living room with a kitchen, one bedroom and a bathroom.

The terrace can be used in summer to soak in that European sun that we Irish can never seem to get.

Sunny apartment in Vienna
Price: €69 per night

9. Krakow, Poland

Poland is a great country to escape to, especially because of how affordable it is.

This chic loft apartment in central Krakow is only €18 PER NIGHT, we cannot believe how great it is.

Beautiful, modern studio for one or two people has air conditioning for the hot summer months, and is located on Bonerowska Street in Krakow city centre. 

The space is less than five minutes walking distance away from Krakow's main historical sights including main square, Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter and more.

Loft apartment
Price: €18 per night

10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The hosts don't call it the 'stairway to heaven' for no reason. Amsterdam is one of Europe's most interesting cities, with a huge amount to do and some immensely picturesque locations to visit.

Little loft apartments near the canals and boats are such a dream come true, and this luxury apartment with warm, modern décor is perfect for a weekend away with someone special.

The private trendy studio is built in the attic of an authentic 1880 Amsterdam house, and is located in the cool neighbourhood near the food hall and outdoor markets. I wouldn't book this if stairs aren't suitable for you, however, it's a steep climb up.

Stairway to Heaven
Price: €80

You all deserve a holiday, and January is the perfect time to escape the winter blues and catch the travel bug.

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According to reports, over 260 people have been injured in a pier collapse in Spain. Five people are said to be in a serious condition.

Local government said people are being treated for a variety of injuries including broken legs, broken arms and head injuries.

It is believed the pier collapsed into the sea at midnight at the O Marisquiño festival in Vigo.

A local newspaper said the pier collapsed just as musician Rels B took to the stage at the musical festival.

A 16-year-old concert goer told Spanish publication Faro de Vigo: “We were on the walkway when it opened up. I fell on people and people fell on me. I was hit on the head and then some sort of container fell as well. I tried to get out and someone helped me.”

Another described the incident as “the worst moment of my life.”

A full investigation is already underway.

More to follow.

 

Feature Image: @InfoEmerg

 

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Holidaymakers heading to Spain or Portugal this week are being told to expect record-breaking temperatures, especially inland.

Met Éireann have said that temperatures could reach a stifling 48°C in inland parts of the Algarve.

The last time Europe saw such extreme heat was in Athens in 1977. 

"The temperatures will be highest for inland parts of Portugal and Spain," forecaster Harm Luijkx said.

"Most people who go on holidays will go to coastal areas and temperatures will be a bit less hot there – between 30°C and 35°C.

"It might be best to avoid inland areas of Portugal and Spain for the next week or so."

The weather will be slightly different for those of us who are staying at home though.

According to Met Éireann, we should expect temperatures of between 20°C and 26°C with a "mix of showers and sunshine."

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An Irish teenager is said to be in a serious condition after falling from a second floor balcony while on holiday in Spain. 

The 18-year-old, who has not been named, was rushed to hospital where his condition is said to be serious, according to The Irish Mirror

The teen was staying at the Hotel Apartments Deya in Santa Ponsa and was taken to Son Espases hospital in the early hours of this morning.

This is, sadly, not the first incident like this to happen in the popular tourist destination.

Back in June, 19-year-old Jack Walsh from Limerick lost his life after falling 39ft from a balcony in Santa Ponsa.

It is understood that Jack had only been in the resort for a few hours when the fatal accident happened. 

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Irish holidays makers will be able to ditch the airports and set sail to Spain this summer thanks to a new route launched by Brittany Ferries.

The brand new ferry crossing will be the first to link Ireland with the popular holiday destination, and could potentially provide a tourism boost for both countries.

Passengers will sail from Cork to Santander in northern Spain, with a new ship being chartered to serve the route, as well as n additional weekly return-sailing from Cork to Roscoff, France.

According to The Irish Mirror, the ship, which will carry approximately 500 passengers as well as 195 cars, is said to offer a comfortable, no-frills service with a distinctly Spanish theme.

On board, passengers can expect to find a small shop, a café-bar and lounge areas as well as dining options that reflect the serviced regions.

The spacious cabins provide beds for up to four people, with a small number of per-friendly rooms also available.

The service is set to launch at the end of April, with two return sailings scheduled per week.

Brittany Ferries spokesman Hugh Bruton said: "This is a significant move for Brittany Ferries, offering haulage companies a direct route to Spain and passengers a far greater range of holiday options from Cork.

"As a destination so-called green Spain promises visitors a wealth of opportunities. It hosts sweeping sandy beaches, snow covered mountains just an hour from the port, fabulous food and offers visitors a welcome as warm as the Spanish will receive when they join us in Ireland.”

That's out summer holidays sorted anyway!

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38 people have been injured after violence broke out during Catalonia's independence referendum.

Clashes occurred after police attempted to prevent the vote from taking place following a decision by Spain's constitutional court.

According to BBC News, witnesses say officers fired rubber bullets during pro-referendum protests in Barcelona.

Speaking to reporters, Catalan leader, Carles Puigdemont, condemned the action of police.

"The unjustified use of violence… by the Spanish state will not stop the will of the Catalan people."

In the town of Griona, where Mr Puigdemont was due to cast his vote, riot police forced their way into a polling station, in an attempt to forcibly remove anyone trying to cast a vote.

Catalonia is a territory in north-eastern Spain with its own language and culture and a population of approximately 7.5 million.

Many of its citizens wish for the region to become recognised as a separate nation, though Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy, says the vote goes against the constitution.

Feature Image: Twitter 

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Just hours after a suspected terrorist attack killed 13 people and injured up to 100 others in the Las Ramblas area of Barcelona, a second suspected attack has occurred. 

A car carrying five passengers rammed into pedestrians on a seafront strip in the popular tourist area of Cambrils, Spain.

No pedestrians lost their lives in the second attack, but seven people were injured. 

The five suspects in the car were all shot dead by police on the scene. 

Some of the suspects were reported to be wearing suicide belts. 

The manhunt for the driver of the Barcelona van continues, but two others have been arrested in connection with the attack.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the Barcelona attack. 

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This is a developing story.

According to emerging reports, at least two people have died after a train derailed in Galica, northern Spain this morning.

It has been established that the fatal incident took place near a station in O Porriño and emergency services are currently on scene.
 

Speaking to local media, authorities have confirmed that in addition to the two fatalities, a 'high number of injuries' have been recorded by emergency services.

The incident occurred at 9.30am local time.

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This is a developing story

According to emerging reports, two people have been seriously injured after a shooting took place outside a bar in the vicinity of a shopping centre in northeastern Spain this morning.

Local media in the city of Zaragoza have confirmed that a gunman opened fire at approximately 11.00 local time.

El Heraldo reported that a motive for the attack is still unclear, but police sources have revealed that the gunman had targeted his former wife.

While some media outlets have reported that the man at the centre of the attack fled the scene, further police sources have said he has since turned the gun on himself.

His two victims are currently being treated in hospital.

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