CASH-STRAPPED residents in Orgiva have come up with a lateral approach to the economic crisis.
Over 40 locals and expats alike have joined forces to set up a Local Exchange and Trading Scheme (LETS) that lets people swap skills and services rather than paying for them.
“It is like a bartering system,” explained London musician Gary Garret, who has lived in the Alpujarra town for 20 years.
“LETS doesn’t use money but has a directory that puts people with skills and services in touch with potential clients who then trade using a local currency, the olivo, on their own terms.
It has been tried before, many times, and is still subject to income tax and VAT.
I think it’s a great idea and should form great friendships amongst the people, it might just get them through.That’s what you call a proper community, lovley.