When we talk about Alicante’s cuisine, it’s impossible not to mention rice. If you come to visit us, you’ll soon realize that rice is more than just a dish—it's a tradition with generations of history. Thanks to this, Alicante and its province offer a wide variety of rice dishes that reflect the richness of our land and coasts. Differences Between Alicantinian Rice and Valencian Paella If you're not from the area, you might wonder if Alicantinian rice and Valencian paella are the same. While both dishes revolve around rice, there are key differences. Valencian paella is known for its yellow color, while Alicantinian rice stands out with a reddish tone. This difference comes from the salmorreta, a base made from ñora peppers, garlic, parsley, and tomatoes, which gives our rice its distinctive flavor. Types of Alicantinian Rice The diversity of rice dishes in the province is vast, with recipes featuring fish or meat depending on the region. Here’s a glimpse of some of the most iconic varieties: Arroz a banda: This coastal dish originated in the fish markets, where leftover fish was used to make a broth that was served “a banda” (on the side) with rice. Nowadays, it’s one of the most iconic dishes, made with a seafood broth, squid, and prawns. Arroz del senyoret: Similar to arroz a banda, but with all the seafood already peeled and ready to eat, perfect for enjoying without getting your hands dirty. It includes prawns, squid, and langoustines, among other ingredients. Arroz con costra: A classic from Elche, with a fluffy egg crust on top, baked to perfection. This dish dates back to the Middle Ages and remains a must-try delicacy. Arroz con conejo y caracoles: A typical dish from inland Alicante, combining the fresh flavors of the mountains with rabbit and snails. Arròs al forn: A baked rice dish made with stew broth, also found with variations such as pork and vegetables. A Journey Through Alicantinian Rice Cuisine Each region in the province adds its own unique touch to rice dishes. In the north, fish-based rice dishes like tuna or cod rice stand out, while in the south, you’ll find more traditional meat-based recipes. No matter where you go, one thing is certain: Alicantinian rice will win you over. If you visit our land, you can’t leave without trying at least one of these rice dishes. It’s part of the Alicantinian experience and one of the reasons why our cuisine is internationally renowned.

Recently, the Valencian Community has approved a new decree that tightens the conditions for tourist rentals. This measure not only aims to regulate the sector and protect tenants but also has a significant impact on the real estate market. What Changes with the New Decree? Rental Licenses: From now on, tourist licenses will automatically be lost with the new regulations. This means that owners selling their properties will lose this possibility at the time of the sale deed, affecting the property's value. Capacity Limitations: There will be limits on the number of guests allowed, aiming to prevent overcrowding in certain areas. Owner Responsibilities: Property owners will need to ensure that their tenants comply with community regulations. Controls and Penalties: There will be increased controls to detect violations, and penalties will be stricter for those operating without the proper license. Alert for Buyers It is crucial for buyers to be cautious, as many listings from real estate agencies and individuals continue to inflate property prices by including the possibility of a tourist license. However, purchasing a property that currently has this license will result in an automatic loss of that option at the time of the deed. Make sure to carefully evaluate whether the purchase is truly sustainable in the long term. Conclusion At Alicante Properties, we understand that these regulations may create uncertainty, but they also offer the opportunity to professionalize the tourist rental sector. If you have questions about how to adapt to this new regulation or need advice on your purchase, feel free to contact us.

The Consell is preparing a new law aimed at regulating tourist use properties, with the primary goal of curbing speculation. The legislation proposes that tourist licenses be automatically revoked upon the sale of the property, requiring the new owner to apply for a new license. This measure aims to prevent price increases in the market due to speculation with properties that already have tourist permits.   Measures to Avoid Administrative Overload   The Minister of Innovation, Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Nuria Montes, announced that this new law will include provisions to prevent municipalities from becoming overloaded due to increased workload. To achieve this, administrative procedures will be simplified, and compatibility urbanistic reports may be supplemented or replaced by reports from collaborating entities, similar to what occurs with construction licenses.   Strengthening Inspections   Regarding inspections, the Generalitat currently has 11 inspectors. Despite this, there has been a significant increase in the number of inspections, from 505 in 2022 to 1,230 in 2023. The new regulations will also incorporate the use of artificial intelligence and collaboration with other administrations to combat the underground economy, ensuring that there are no limitations in terms of human or material resources.   Impact on the Tourist Property Market   The law aims to maintain tourist properties as a key element in the tourist ecosystem of the Valencian Community, which has approximately 120,000 properties of this type. However, it is estimated that the actual number of tourist properties being marketed through platforms may be double that figure. Additionally, the regulations will prohibit the rental of rooms within tourist properties, a practice that is already prohibited but continues to be offered daily.   Municipal Autonomy and Local Control   The law will provide a general framework that will grant municipalities significant autonomy to adopt specific measures according to their needs. This includes the possibility of limiting, freezing, or not granting more tourist licenses if it is considered that a sufficient capacity has already been reached.   Controversy and Reactions   The announcement of this new law comes amidst controversy over tourist properties, with demonstrations in Alicante and criticism of the Conselleria de Turismo by the PSPV. In response, Minister Montes defended the actions of the Consell and emphasized the need to address the problem of illegal accommodation in tourist properties jointly with other autonomous communities and with the support of the Ministry of Industry and Tourism.   Montes also emphasized the importance of creating a platform and a control system for tourist platforms at the European level to combat the underground economy in the sector.   In summary, the new law of the Consell aims to regulate tourist properties to curb speculation, simplify administrative procedures, strengthen inspections, and grant greater control to municipalities. Approval of this law is expected before the summer, with the aim of maintaining tourist properties as a vital component of tourism in the Valencian Community.  

The hidden treasure of San Fernando Castle At the top of Mount Tossal, dominating the city of Alicante, stands the imposing San Fernando Castle. Between its walls and secret passages lies a legend that has fascinated generations: that of the hidden treasure. It is said that during the War of the Spanish Succession, at the beginning of the 18th century, the castle was used as a refuge by supporters of Archduke Charles. To protect their riches, they hid them in a secret place within the fortress. Eventually, the war ended and the castle was abandoned. The treasure was left hidden, waiting to be found by some lucky person. The treasure clues: There are various stories and legends that offer clues about the location of the treasure. Some say it is buried under the Keep, while others claim it is in one of the castle's underground galleries. There is also talk of a secret crypt, accessible only through a hidden passage, where a chest with gold coins, jewels and objects of great value would be kept. The treasure hunters: Over the centuries, many have tried to find the treasure of the Castillo de San Fernando. Some have dug into the walls, others have explored the tunnels and galleries, and some have even used sophisticated metal detecting equipment. However, to date, no one has managed to find the whereabouts of the treasure. Fact or legend? The existence of the treasure of the Castillo de San Fernando remains a mystery. Some believe it is just a legend, while others remain hopeful that one day it will be found. What is certain is that the treasure hunt has helped keep the castle's history alive and has fueled the imagination of thousands of people. If you dare to look for the treasure: Please note that the Castillo de San Fernando is an Asset of Cultural Interest and is protected by law. Any unauthorized excavation or search is prohibited. Furthermore, the castle is a place with complex terrain and full of dangers. If you decide to explore its corners, do so with extreme caution and following safety regulations. Remember: The San Fernando Castle treasure hunt can be an exciting adventure, but it must always be done with responsibility and respect for the historical heritage.