Englishman Bill Fazakerly enjoyed his usual ‘rounds’ in Cuevas de San Marcos just before Christmas – but not as himself. Traditionally, Bill visits the Saturday market nearest to Christmas dressed as Santa Claus, giving out presents to the children. He is fondly known as Papa Noel, a nickname given to him by one young man when he first arrived. “The kids mostly seem to enjoy it , as do I,” he said. “However, occasionally they have to tug on my beard to see if it is real!”


The traditional Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos, or Parade of the Three Wise Men, is held every year in Malaga’s town centre. Kings Melchor, Gaspar and B...