A new incarnation of the Diversa Festival, a cultural and social event that has become a benchmark for LGBTI+ visibility in the province of Alicante, will be held in Elche from May 16th to the 24th. The festival, which is presented under the motto “More visible, more possible,” is organised by the City Council through the Departments of Social Action, Culture, and Youth. This motto embodies the festival’s characteristic spirit of inclusion and diversity.

The Diversa 2025 Festival programme encompasses a variety of events, such as panel discussions, theatre, film, athletics, live podcasts, and concerts, all of which will feature notable artists and personalities. Diversa has experienced substantial growth since its inception in 2009. The 2024 edition attracted over 4,200 attendees, a 20% increase from the previous year, as indicated by city council data.

Celia Lastra, Councillor for Social Action, underscored that “this festival is not merely a celebration; it is a social transformation tool that enables us to coexist with empathy and respect, thereby reinforcing the principles of diversity and integration.”

The Congress Centre, the Odeón Cinemas, the Sports City, and the L’Escorxador CCCE are among the venues that will hold the events. The latter will host a significant portion of the activities. This year, Miguel Hernández University (UMH) is also participating through its Vice-Rectorate for Culture, Equality, and Diversity.

On Thursday, May 16th, the programme will commence with a panel discussion featuring Choriza May, a well-known drag diva who is recognised for her involvement in Drag Race UK. The Espai Escènic del Escorxador will host the event at 8:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The horror classic Scream (1996) will be screened at 12:00 p.m. at the Congress Centre on Friday, the 17th. Cristina Alcázar and Carla Pulpón will be broadcasting the podcast “Cover Lo Sera Tú” live at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, the 18th, at the Escorxador. Tickets for this event, as well as the other paid performances, are priced at 5 euros and can be obtained from the Gran Teatro box office or the Vivaticket platform.

The Congress Centre will host a discussion on the cultural memory of the LGBTI+ community at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, the 23rd. The Sports City will host a sports day with Dimove at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, the 24th. In the afternoon, the theater-cabaret “The Night of a Thousand Marinas” will be performed at 7:30 p.m.

Natalia Lacunza, a finalist on Operación Triunfo and one of the most influential emerging artists on the Spanish music landscape, will be performing at the festival’s closing ceremony. The festival’s inaugural speech will precede the concert, which is scheduled to commence at 10:00 PM on the Escorxador terrace.

Elche reiterates its dedication to the rights of the LGBTI+ community through this initiative, which provides a platform for expression and commemoration that is accessible to all citizens.

What is the manner in which Spaniards perceive their sexuality? What is the frequency of their sexual intercourse? Which fantasies are most prevalent and in which regions? These are some of the enquiries addressed in the most recent study on sexual habits in Spain in 2025, which was conducted by the specialised online store Diversual.com. Diversual.com has established itself as a reliable indicator of the health and sexual habits of our nation in recent years. The report, which was conducted by sexologists Lucía Jiménez and Bárbara Montes, compiles the testimonies of 4,794 individuals between the ages of 18 and over 60. It provides a comprehensive analysis that is classified by gender and province.

The study indicates that Spaniards engage in sexual activity with another individual on an average of 6.3 days per month. Girona is the province with the least sexual relations, with an average of 5 days per month, while Teruel is the most sexually active, with an average of 8.1 days per month. The most active cities are Jaén (8.0), Cáceres (8.0), Ciudad Real (7.9), and Ávila (7.8), while the least active cities are Tarragona (5.2), Álava (5.3), Córdoba (5.3), and Orense (5.5). The Valencian Community’s average for the three provinces is 6.3 times per month, with Valencia leading the way at 6.7, while Alicante and Castellón have an average of 6.1 times.

During sexual intercourse with another individual, 75.4% of the respondents reported experiencing orgasm. This percentage exhibits a substantial gender disparity: 86.1% of men consistently accomplish it, while 65.9% of women do. Curiously, the orgasm incidence is highest among women over 65, at 81.3%. The province with the highest incidence of orgasms with a partner is Guadalajara (84.7%), while León is at the opposite end of the spectrum, at 68.6%. The Valencian Community is barely below the national average in this regard, with Castellón at 75%, Valencia at 74.8%, and Alicante at 74.6%.

Orgasms are even more prevalent in the context of masturbation, with 88.4% of men and 86.6% of women experiencing them on a regular basis. During solitary masturbation, climax is reported by 90.4% of men and 86.6% of women.

Fantasy and infidelity

The results suggest that 28.9% of the respondents admitted to having been unfaithful at some stage in a stable relationship. The rate of female infidelity is marginally higher, with a maximum of 30%. Girona is the province with the highest infidelity rate, at 40.6%, while Toledo is the most faithful, at only 12.5%. This is based on geography.

The most prevalent sexual fantasy, as indicated by 57.7% of respondents, is the desire to engage in a threesome. Teruel (83.3%), Ávila (75%), and Zaragoza (67.9%) exhibit an especially high level of this ambition. In provinces such as Lugo (64.2%), Badajoz (62.3%), and Vizcaya (60%), relationships in locations other than the bedroom are the most prevalent choice. The fantasy of being sexually subjugated is the most prevalent in Huesca (70.3%), Zamora (66.6%), and Ciudad Real (58.8%).

In terms of fantasies that have been realised, 69.3% have engaged in sexual activity outside of the bedroom, while 56.3% have engaged in sexual activity in public areas. On the other hand, only 1.8% of individuals have engaged in sexual intercourse with a celebrity, and 4.1% have been involved in a swinger relationship.

Pressure to refrain from using protection

The diversual.com study contained some of the most concerning data regarding contraception use: 40.6% of men and 52.6% of women have engaged in unprotected sexual activity with non-steady partners. Additionally, 45.8% of women report that they have experienced peer pressure to forgo the use of a contraceptive, which is significantly higher than the 14% recorded among men.

Additionally, Spaniards devote an average of 18.9 minutes to non-penetrative sexual activities, with the 55-64 age group dedicating the most time (21.2 minutes). Oral intercourse (88.8%) and partnered masturbation (71.6%) are the most prevalent practices. Conversely, threesomes and companion swapping account for a mere 2.4%.

The bedroom is the preferred location for intercourse for 73% of participants, with the living room (11.7%) and hotels (6.2%) following in that order.

Although 74.2% of respondents believe that it is easier to locate a sexual partner in the present day, 42.3% continue to believe that it is still difficult to do so. Pornography is accessible from a young age; 57.5% of individuals first encountered pornography between the ages of 8 and 16, with an average age of 15.2. It is currently estimated that males watch pornography an average of 11.5 days per month, while women watch it an average of 2.7 days per month. Palencia is the province with the maximum consumption (9.8 days per month), while Albacete has the lowest (3 days).

A study to enhance and comprehend sexual well-being

“Lucía Jiménez, a sexologist at Diversual, explains that the objective of this study is to enhance one’s comprehension of individuals’ sexuality in order to continue to support their welfare.” Bárbara Montes, a sexologist at Diversual and co-author of the study, explains, “Our objective is to facilitate dialogue, advocate for a more equitable and healthier sexual lifestyle, and provide support for sexual education from a realistic and respectful perspective.”

Spain, a land of vibrant culture and sun-drenched landscapes, is a culinary paradise, where each region boasts its own distinctive flavors. From the pintxos of San Sebastian to the hearty stews of Castile, the country offers a gastronomic journey that tantalises the taste buds. However, for a truly sun-kissed culinary experience, the Costa Blanca stands out.  

This south eastern stretch of Mediterranean coastline, renowned for its pristine beaches and azure waters, also offers a rich tapestry of gastronomic delights. The region’s cuisine is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, reflecting its coastal location and fertile inland valleys. Seafood, naturally, takes centre stage.  

Think succulent prawns from Denia, grilled sardines enjoyed al fresco, and the ubiquitous paella, a dish that finds its most authentic expression here. Costa Blanca’s paella, often cooked over wood fires, features locally sourced rice, fresh seafood, and sometimes rabbit or chicken, creating a symphony of flavours that evoke the essence of the Mediterranean.  

Beyond seafood, the region’s fertile hinterland provides a bounty of fresh produce. Citrus fruits, almonds, and olives flourish, contributing to the vibrant flavours of local dishes. The “naranja” (orange) is a regional icon, finding its way into salads, desserts, and even savoury sauces. Almonds, meanwhile, are transformed into turrón, a sweet nougat that is a traditional Christmas treat, but enjoyed year-round.

The Costa Blanca’s culinary scene is not just about traditional fare. Modern restaurants are also making their mark, blending innovative techniques with local ingredients. Michelin-starred establishments and trendy tapas bars offer a contemporary twist on classic dishes, showcasing the region’s evolving gastronomic landscape.  

Local markets, like the bustling Mercado Central in Alicante, provide a sensory feast, revealing the region’s culinary essence. Here, you can find fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, and local delicacies, providing the perfect ingredients for a home-cooked Mediterranean meal.  

Whether you’re savouring fresh seafood by the sea, indulging in a hearty paella, or exploring the vibrant local markets, the Costa Blanca offers a culinary adventure that is as captivating as its stunning scenery. It’s a place where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of life, sunshine, and the rich tapestry of Spanish flavors. Sources and related content