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August 27 – September 9, 2015 Ring road completion
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More delays
Get your thermals on!
Terrific tenor
Autumn is coming
Page 6
Pages 8 & 9
Pages 14 & 15
Pages 35 - 37
From Pedrito to Peter Canarian footballer, Pedro Rodríguez Ledesma, known as Pedrito during his time playing for CD San Isidro and Pedro while at Barcelona, recently joined Londonbased Premier League club Chelsea for a fee of nearly €30 million – and after scoring and providing an assist in his debut, it would seem that Pedro is now happy to become Peter! Pedro joins fellow Tenerife born and raised Ayoze Perez, now playing for Newcastle United, in the English top flight following his high-profile transfer. Gran Canarian winger, David Silva, also plays in England for Manchester City. Born in Santa Cruz in 1987, Pedro joined FC Barcelona’s youth team at the age of 17, from local side CD San Isidro, and soon established himself as a Barcelona starlet. Pedro scored 99 goals in 321 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona from 2008 to 2015, and won 20 major honours including five league titles and three UEFA Champions League winners’ medals. He also represented Spain in two World Cups and Euro 2012, winning once in each n major international tournament.
CONFUSING Climate
Lightning changes? Instead of shooting stars during the Perseids this August, skywatchers in the Canaries were treated to the splendid sight of literally thousands of lightning strikes. Is climate change coming to the Canaries with a bang? Weather patterns all over the world are changing and it’s inevitable that we will be affected too. A special commission has been set up, Projecto Climatique, under the auspices of the Canarian Technological Institute with funds from Europe to study the possible effects that climate change will have on the Islands’ wellbeing and economy. However, does the strength of the August tropical storm and the fact that November 2014 registered the highest rainfall in 30 years mean that bigger changes are to come? – No, say the experts. Victor Quintero, Director of the state Meteorological centre in Santa Cruz, pointed out that ten years ago it also rained in August and “a lot more intensely” than this year. That was the year
In mid-August the Canaries experienced literally thousands of lightning strikes
Photo: jmedigital/freeimages.com
Chelsea’s Canarian
that the Islands were hit by Tropical Storm Delta the following November when electricity pylons were bent in half like soft toffee by the fierce winds. Let’s hope the same pattern doesn’t repeat itself this
time around. According to Quintero, whilst the August rain was not an isolated occasion, this kind of weather isn’t normal for the Canaries. Interestingly, the island of La Palma, known for its verdant
scenery, has just been classified by the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) as the driest region of Spain for the period from June 2014 to June 2015. Continued on page 2
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Confusing climate
All change on the weather front Continued from front page La Palma’s ranking as ‘driest region’ is due to its having two and a half times less rainfall than it would normally have during the aforementioned period – the only region to have such a striking change and thus the only one marked in red on AEMET’s weatherreport map. However, the decline in rainfall in La Palma is not as surprising as it first appears and meteorologists who regularly evaluate and compare records are not shocked by the revelation. They have been watching La Palma’s reduction for quite some time: Between 1971 and 2000, the average annual rainfall on the island was 324.7 millimetres (one millimetre being equivalent to one litre of water per square meter). For
Don Horacio believes the changes are part of a natural cycle
about the last decade the trend has been declining: In 2014 it rained just 261.1 millimetres in La Palma. Conversely, in Lanzarote it rained significantly more than usual. However, we all tend to look back with rose-tinted spectacles, were those past summer holidays really all filled with sunshine? Were the winters always mild and balmy? It is true that there are more calimas (dust clouds) these days, more heat waves, more cold spells. Nevertheless, if you talk to the old farmers around the Islands they will tell you tales of worse episodes in their youth. Don Horacio, a renowned Canarian Cabañuelo (someone who forecasts the weather by looking closely at nature) believes
that a general climate change is on the way, though not as part of worldwide global warming but because of the historical natural cycle. “We have had more than 40 years of a fair weather phase and now a period of bad weather is due. It may run for 15 to 30 years and it will mean unusually hot summers, and autumn, winter and springs that are rainy, cool and windy. Winters especially will be very cold and wet.” He believes this phenomenon will not be limited to the Canaries, but repeated in other places too. According to Horacio, periods of good and bad weather alternate throughout the centuries. The actual impact on individual regions and countries are different, but the general trend n affects them all.
Still seeking justice
Gran Canaria recently paid homage to the victims of Spanair Flight 5022, with families of the victims regrettably still fighting for answers about the crash seven years on. A memorial event was organised by the island council of Gran Canaria, with the president declaring that “since August
20, 2008, Gran Canaria has not been the same” and went on to express his love and support for the families of those that died that day. Island officials and members of the Association of Flight 5022 were present to remember the 154 people who perished on the flight,
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72 of whom were from Gran Canaria. Spanair JK5022 was a scheduled domestic flight from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Gran Canaria that crashed just after take-off. Two Canarian musicians, Yeray Rodríguez and Expedito Suárez, wrote several songs to honour families and victims, and there were poetry recitals by relatives. Flowers were laid next to the memorial statue ‘Lights in the Void’ which was erected in La Puntilla on the Las Canteras promenade. The association set up in memory of the victims has fought for many years to have air safety protocols revised and withheld information released, with representative Piretti Angeles commenting that “the rights of the families should be upheld and never should an accident occur in such circumstances again”. He went on to criticise the manner in which the Spanish government “abandoned” relatives
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Photo: Javier Pedreira
Spanair plane crash remembered
The aircraft named Sunbreeze was acquired by Spanair in 1999
The Madrid–Barajas Airport, scene of the plane crash
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of the victims and, with so many unanswered questions, he added that “without justice this wound will never close. The state is obliged to answer our queries and ease the enormous pain that ties us together. Justice has been blind for the victims”. Piretti insisted that “the victims’ families have not seen any real help but those responsible certainly have” and launched an attack against the Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission (CIAIAC). Piretti said that they had “hidden the truth” and criticised the insurance company for “devoting their infinite resources to offending honest people with bottom-of-the-barrel compensation offers”. As with previous anniversaries to mark the occasion, families of the victims and other attendees threw flowers into the sea as a symbol of rememn brance.
European Union European Regional Development Fund
“Creating Europe” This company has qualified for subsidies from the Spanish Government, cofinanced by funding from the European Regional Development Fund, for the transport of merchandise in the Canaries.
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
CANARY ISLANDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Breast cancer charity
Swim for life
Swimming is great for your health and it could help someone else too if you join this great event. Last year’s swim for life was so successful and so much fun that the organisers have decided to repeat it. Rotary, Tenerife Top Training and Tenerife Club Masters swimming group are in the driving seat once again, with Adeje and Arona councils and the Walk for Life team pitching in too. The event is open to all-comers (from 12-years-old) and you don’t need to be a pro swimmer or even a regular swimmer to join in. The minimum donation is €12 and all the money raised will go to Carrera Por la Vida/Walk for Life for breast cancer projects and investigation. There’s timed swimming heats, aguagym, free time in the fabulous pools at Tenerife Top Training and a great paella to finish a marvellous day. To register send an email to nadaporlavida@gmail.com with your full name, a copy of proof of your donation, and if you wish to compete your date of birth, DNI/NIE and details of which competition you would like to enter. The event takes place on September 6, from 10.30am to 2.30pm, but registration closes on September 1 or after the first 200 people. If you can’t attend, you can still donate. See www.migranodearena.org/es/reto/7326/nadarpor-la-vida-2015/ for donation details, a great short video of highlights from last year, and more information. n
Still on the up
South Tenerife population explosion Recent data from the Canarian Statistical Institute has a clear message: In the last 20 years the resident population has more than doubled in the south of Tenerife - the area between Candelaria and Santiago del Teide. In 1994 there were 124,000 people living in the southern half of the island, and by 2014 this figure had risen to 280,000. The development of tourism in the last two decades is the main aspect which has had a massive impact on numbers. The increase in visitors, along with new hotel constructions and the modernisation of older, more obsolete establishments has resulted in a higher concentration of people who make their living from the island’s main industry. The rise in the number of jobs and business opportunities has led to more residential space being created, and many of these workers have now settled permanently in the south.
More and more people settle permanently in the south of Tenerife
All the communities in the southern half have benefited from this tendency, but Adeje and Arona have grown the most by far. In Adeje, the population has almost quadrupled in the last 20 years, reaching 47,000, but it is only the second largest settlement. The outstanding leader is Arona with 80,000 inhabitants, where the population has tripled over the same period, with Los Cristianos clearly the favourite place to live. Granadilla, San Miguel and Candelaria have experienced
a minor tourist boom, and have clearly benefited from the growth. The third largest municipality, with 43,500 inhabitants, is Granadilla, where, in particular, the establishment of industry and the creation of industrial areas have contributed to the population more than doubling. In the southeast, Candelaria, which had 11,700 inhabitants in 1994, had grown to 27,000 by 2014. Candelaria drew many of its extra residents from the valley of Güímar and from the metropolitan areas
in the east. With easy access to the motorway, it makes an attractive residential area for commuters to Santa Cruz and La Laguna. San Miguel de Abona is home to the fourth highest number of holiday beds, as well as the leading commercial and industrial area of Las Chafiras. This explains why the population there has almost tripled in the last 20 years, from 6,000 in 1994 to 16,500 in 2014. More moderate growth has been recorded in Guía de Isora, Fasnia, Arafo, Arico and Güímar, and the two exceptions to the rule are Vilaflor, the highest village in Spain, and Santiago del Teide. Though they still have more residents than in 1994, these two municipalities have actually lost inhabitants in the last 10 years. Vilaflor reduced its numbers by 180, while the population of Santiago del Teide, despite its popular tourist areas of Los Gigantes and Playa de la Arena, fell by 309. n
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
A blind eye…
Photo: Karl McLaughlin
Oil message continues to confuse
Attitudes to the oil industry in these shores continue to cause confusion, with the official line still that no drilling will ever be allowed in the waters off the Canaries. The commotion for nearly two years as the regional govern-
ment fought Madrid over drilling licences granted to oil giant Repsol has now died down with the departure of the drilling ship, which found no viable pockets of oil or gas off Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. However, the concerted efforts
One of the rigs that provide lively debates
by the Canarian authorities to attract oil rigs to the main ports here for maintenance work continue to draw criticism, with many pointing out the inconsistency with the “no oil” stance.
Two giant rigs are about to join a long line of rigs that have already undergone repairs in Santa Cruz in recent times and their presence has not gone down well with everyone. In addition to being something of an eyesore on the seafront, the rigs - West Eminence and West Taurus - represent an industry that causes environmental damage elsewhere but the message from the authorities seems to be “take their money and look the other way”. The Tenerife Port Authority will earn €1.5 million in fees alone from the presence of the pair of rigs and an estimated 160 local workers will spend the coming weeks carrying out routine maintenance and repairs. The platforms belong to UKbased Seadrill, considered the third biggest offshore oil drilling company in the world. n
Joyful reunion
Troops return from Mali tour A Spanish Army contingent based in the Canaries has returned from a five-month mission in trouble-torn Mali, giving a late summer thrill to the soldiers’ families. The 26 troops were part of a bigger contingent of 150 supplied by Spain to the European Union’s EUTM Mali effort to restore stability to the country and address the political, humanitarian and security crisis triggered by the virtual division of Mali into two separate parts in 2012, with the north partially controlled by violent national and international ter-
Daunting condition Although many thousands of miles away from the Canaries, the situation in Venezuela is of growing concern to many in the Islands, which have strong ties to the South American country. According to the International Crisis Group, Venezuela’s growing political ten-
The West African country has been shaken by unrest for years
rorist groups. The tour of duty, which included training Malian security forces in combat skills, was a “massive success”,
according to Colonel Juan Sevilla, who led the Canarian contingent. “Our Malian colleagues were very sad to see
us leave and there were quite a few tears among them” said José Amaro, one of the returning soldiers, who was greeted at Tenerife North Airport by his wife and daughter on his return from his first tour abroad. While comforted by the fact that their loved ones were based several hundred kilometres from the main conflict zones in Mali, the families agreed that the long separation had been “very hard to bear” and were looking forward to returning to normality for the next few months in n Tenerife.
Venezuela fears grow sion and the collapse of the country’s economy and health care system are leading to an equally dangerous social crisis, which could blow up any minute and lead to instability in the region. First-hand reports of rampant inflation and food and medicine shortages reach the
Canaries daily from relatives of the thousands of Venezuelans living here and from Canarians who emigrated to the oil-producing country decades ago in search of work. The Canarian government continues to closely monitor the situation in what is popularly known as the “8th Canary
Island” on account of its historic links with the Canaries. As reported here, the government announced several months ago that it would provide financial and health care assistance to elderly Canarian ex-pats in Venezuela who have not been receiving their state pensions n due to the crisis.
Financial details distributed
Telde challenged over data protection breach Gran Canaria’s second biggest city could be in trouble with Spain’s data protection watchdog in a test case whose outcome will no doubt be of interest to local councils across the islands. The case has arisen after the United Left party in Telde filed a formal complaint against the corporation for handing over the personal details of tens of thousands of householders to a body which is to take on the job of collecting the council’s bin collection charge. The organisation, called Valora, is run by the Gran Canaria Cabildo and assists local councils with revenue collection but United Left has challenged its right to access private information supplied to Telde by local residents, including their bank account details. Telde says it informed all households in advance of the decision to transfer payment collection responsibility to Valora. It has been asked by the Data Protection Agency to provide proof of the information and the minutes of its meetings in which the decision was taken to switch collection of the local tax to an island-wide body. The investigation is being followed closely elsewhere due to the growing tendency of local councils to outsource their revenue collection and hand over confidential details to n the body awarded the job.
Luck of the draw
Scratch card windfall for Gran Canaria A lucky Gran Canaria purchaser of a scratch card for the Spanish Blind Association (ONCE) can retire in comfort after winning a tidy cash prize and a wage almost for life. The card was bought from a lottery office in Las Palmas city centre and has earned the holder a one-off payment of €100,000 plus a monthly wage of €3,000 for the next 20 years. No details of the identity of the winner have been revealed. On the same day a person from Fuerteventura won €5,000 and a mini-wage of €500 per month for five years on another ONCE scratch card. A few days earlier the standard ONCE lottery draw saw €140,000 in prize money go to four customers of a Las Palmas ticket shop. n
‘Board’ meeting
Safer swimming and surfing Swimmers, divers and surfers will be able to pursue their respective activities on the coast of Granadilla more safely thanks to new rules put in place by the council to ensure possible mishaps are kept to a minimum. The massive media repercussions of tragedies such as the death of a Russian woman whose neck was slashed by the keel fin of a surf board in Gran Canaria in late July have spurred many local authorities into reviewing the safety features of beaches where swimmers and surfers coexist, including popular spots like El Médano, which is a mecca for surfing and kite-surfing. Council representatives met in mid-August with the diving and surfing schools operating in the area to outline the safety changes, including the demarcation of surfing zones, and the new regulations adopted by the province’s Department of Coasts. A source said that every effort was being made to reconcile the needs and interests of beach users and the substantial surfing community in El Médano and other Granadilla beaches, which n plays such an important role in the area’s tourism.
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ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Orca sighting off El Hierro
Parents fight back
School book battle set for court
Photo: Herman Brinkman/freeimages.com
The start of the new school year, which is just around the corner, brings the usual assortment of controversies, including the now customary criticism that the education authorities continue to improvise staffing arrangements in schools across the Canaries. However, one of the bitterest squabbles this year involves not the Department of Education but bookshops and parents’ associations. The decision by several associations, particularly in La Palma, to buy school books in bulk from publishers and distributors and sell them at cost price has set them on a collision course with the sector and the spat could well end up in court. Lawyers for the Spanish Federation of Book Sellers have threatened legal action against the parents for unfair competition and are pressuring distributors not to sell them any books. “The parents are applying discounts in excess of those authorised by law for such publications and we will do everything we can to protect the interests of our members” said the lawyers, who announced the possibility of legal proceedings a year ago when the La Palma parents registered with the authorities as book-sellers to give them the legal cover for the sales. “We are not doing anything wrong. Our only aim is to ensure books cost as little as possible for the parents of schoolchildren” insisted a spokesperson for the main La Palma Parents’ Association. The outcome of the case could well depend on the interpretation of the term ‘discount’, as the parents behind the scheme are adamant that they are not undercutting distributors but merely “not taking any Booksellers fear unfair profit” from the sales. n competition
Encounters of the rare kind Orcas have once again been spotted in Canarian waters. Researchers from La Laguna University’s Cetacean and Bioacoustics Unit were pleasantly surprised to come across five of the distinctly-marked cetaceans around two nautical miles off the coast of El Hierro recently. The scientists followed the group – consisting of one male, three females and a juvenile - to around seven miles south of the island. Well-known marine photographer Sergio Hanquet was on board at the time and managed to attain yet another incredible shot: One of the orcas coming up with a cephalopod in its mouth - believed to be a large squid - after diving for food. Orcass are seldom seen closeup in the Canaries, though are known to pass through the area, so every sighting is a rare treat. The last time they were observed off El Hierro was in
Photo: Sergio Hanquet, ULL
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Orcas are only rarely found off the coast of El Hierro
July 2012. In June 2009, 14 orcas were seen off the coast of Lanzarote and in July 2013 a family was spotted close to La Palma. In April of this year, some very lucky holidaymakers on an excursion from Los Cristianos on the Bonadea II catamaran clearly saw a group of 12 orcas hunting, around three miles off the coast of Adeje. The latest group of the majestic marine predators was seen while the collection of research-
ers was actually working on a pioneer project, the only similar ones being undertaken by scientific centres in the Bahamas and Hawaii. They were searching for examples of some of the least understood cetaceans on the planet, the Cuvier and the Blainville beaked whales, which live far away from the coast and can dive to a great depth. Scientists from the University of La Laguna have been formally studying cetaceans around the
archipelago since 2003, investigating the frequency of sightings and seasonality of up to 17 different species. The Canary Islands have a particularly wide range of cetaceans that either live in, or pass through, their waters. Of the more than 80 known cetacean species, at least 26 can be found here: Just one more good reason why special protection is needed for the Atlantic Ocean surrounding the Canaries. n
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Island ring road
Fast talk, slow progress Work on the final section of the TF1 motorway between Guía de Isora and Adeje has been further delayed with completion expected for “late November or early December”. Construction should have been finished in July but work on the bridge over Barranco de Erques, the ravine which naturally divides the two boroughs, has taken longer than expected. The Canarian Minister for Public Works, Ornella Chacón, along with Tenerife Council Deputy for Transport and Infrastructure, Alexis Rodríguez, and both mayors of Guía de Isora and Adeje, Pedro Martín and José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, recently visited the site to assess the progress. While Chacón was proud to emphasise the bridge’s unique style, environmental considerations and the charming surroundings of the ravine, the two mayors were less than content with developments. Pedro Martín criticised the fact that the stretch of road between Santiago del Teide and Vera de Erques – with a distance of over 14 kilometres – is only one lane: “There is no way to overtake slow-moving vehicles and this makes little sense on a so-called expressway. It’s an invitation for motorists to take chances and potentially make illegal manoeuvres”. Martín also spoke about the damage caused to local roads by heavy
The red section on the left represents the final major connection of the ring road project
construction vehicles during the works, particularly the access roads linking Guía de Isora to the TF1, and stressed that many need to be “urgently repaired and resurfaced”. The junction for Fonsalía and Alcalá is still only 85 to 90 per cent complete and requires a final cash injection of around €10 million, but the mayor sees the work for this section of the project as important due to congestion on the TF47 at times. The coastal road is used every day by thousands of residents and tourists who travel to the various town centres and beach resorts. José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga was also critical of the delays but stressed that when finally finished, the island’s road network “will be good for workers travelling to the south from the north, and for tourists sight-
seeing around the island”. Fraga also took the opportunity to address plans for future projects, namely a second runway for the Reina Sofía Airport in south Tenerife and a third lane for sections of the TF1, particularly when accessing the said airport. Ornella Chacón acknowledged the mayors’ comments and remarked that “it is important to understand the needs of local residents through the mayors and borough councils as they represent the people and know firsthand the issues most important to them”. However, president of the Tenerife Council, Carlos Alonso, announced via Twitter that he only learned of the delayed completion date through the local press. He expressed his annoyance and stated that the island’s government would
have supplied €4 million for the project to be completed more quickly. He also said that he felt betrayed by the noncompliance with the original agreement and the fact that he had to hear the information via a newspaper. He also recently met with the mayors of El Tanque and Santiago del Teide along with the president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, to discuss the connection between these two areas. The project has an estimated cost of more than €305 million with a three year completion period and requires the installation of a tunnel. If, as planned, the work starts in early 2017, the ring road could be finished by the end of 2019. All the key parties involved in the project are giving it their full support, with the two presidents commenting that the fast connection from the north of Tenerife to the south is top priority. Next year will see the commencement of necessary expropriations and a cash injection of around €15 million from the Spanish Government. The Canarian Government wants to pre-finance the entire project to ensure a smooth and speedy construction process, and to pay off the sum from Madrid over the next ten to 15 years. The final piece of the ring road will be the connection between Los Realejos and Icod de Los n Vinos.
Drug plantation busted
The angel’s trumpet call The common datura plant is often considered an ornamental plant for gardens and balconies. In the Canary Islands, datura even grows wild and is also known as ‘devil’s snare’ and ‘angel’s trumpet’. However, the plant is highly toxic and is becoming widely used as a recreational drug to induce hallucinations and temporary euphoria. For this reason, it is probably no coincidence that a grower in Callao Salvaje has just had a cultivation of 288 plants seized by authorities following calls from local residents. The suspect is reported to have spent several years caring for the
It may be a pretty plant but it’s also extremely poisonous
plantation but denies having any prior knowledge that the plants’ toxic properties can be used for drug use.
All Datura plants contain tropane alkaloids such as scopolamine, hyoscyamine and atropine, mainly in their seeds
and flowers. It is said that this causes hallucinations and also makes women more sexuallycompliant. Users may smoke the plant, prepare it as a tea, cook with it or consume it raw. The toxin’s severity on the user depends on the manner in which it’s taken, personal attributes and the quality of the cultivation. It is said that effects take up to one hour before the user notices and the ‘high’ can last anything from four to 24 hours. However, distinct pupil dilation often occurs for several days following use, and misuse or overuse of the hallucinogen can lead to psychosis and even death. n
Paying double
Puerto pool users demand re-entry rule change Hundreds of regular users of Puerto de la Cruz’s big Lago Martiánez open-air pools complex are calling for a change to the no re-entry rule which forces them to pay for admission a second time if they leave and return later. The rule, brought in by the council relatively recently, is a common source of complaint, with Lago Martiánez users accusing the corporation of deliberately forcing them to eat and drink at the bars and restaurants inside the popular complex. “Admission prices have soared in recent times and now we have this ludicrous rule, which stops people from popping out to use local bars or to buy something in a shop” said a spokesperson for the campaigners, who have organised a petition to present to the council. The campaigners also accuse the council of hampering their petition bid by refusing permission to install a table n outside the Lago pools to canvas user opinions.
Photo: Koppchen
Users of the pool are trying to defend themselves against being ‘ripped off’
Fuerteventura opinion divided
Grandmother faces jail for illegal home A Fuerteventura woman who is due to enter prison shortly to serve a custodial sentence for building her home on conservation land has gone on hunger strike with one of her daughters to draw public attention to her situation. The woman constructed the property 16 years ago on land inherited from her parents in Aguas Verdes in the Betancuria Rural Park but the dwelling was ruled to be in breach of environmental regulations. In addition to receiving a six month sentence, she was ordered to pay a fine of €700 and demolish the small house in 2012 but has not complied with the latter instruction, arguing that she needs the house for her single-mother daughter and three grandchildren, who risked being taken into care if they did not find a permanent home. The case has divided the island, with supporters joining her for her hunger strike and calling for a review of the court ruling to take account of her difficult family situation. However, others are less sympathetic and insist she was aware of what she was doing when she built the house on land she knew was subject to strict environmental protection rules and that she subsequently added to its size when she had already been made n aware of the offence committed.
CANARY ISLANDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Fuerteventura life and death struggle
Happy ending
Dream come true for ‘carrier Mum’ is unable to move unaided. Pictures of the elderly woman hauling her son on her back up and down from her thirdfloor flat caused a major outcry, with calls to the authorities to resolve her plight immediately. The government insisted that it had no suitable accommodation available but it has now moved Leonor to ground-floor housing in the Casablanca district of the capital. As soon as the flat became free, workers adapted the bathroom for her
son and she was able to move in soon after. “I have been waiting for this moment for years. I am so grateful that I can take my son out normally. It is a dream come true” said the delighted mother. n
Photo: La Sexta
A Las Palmas mother who has had to carry her disabled adult son up several flights of stairs for years says her life has been transformed completely by the move to another flat, provided by social services. Leonor Pérez has featured in the regional and national news regularly over the past year or so on account of her daily hardship in coping alone with her son, who suffers from cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy and
This photo caused a stir and changed lives
Bizarre decisions
Rubbish view in Vallehermoso Some places in the Canaries still do not seem to be doing their utmost to make life easy for the visitors that bring considerable income to local areas. La Gomera is well known as a paradise for walkers and more serious hikers and the island is well equipped in terms of trails catering for all levels and tastes. Off the beaten track, however, some
smaller locations choose to ‘hide’ the explanations for their most famous natural attractions. Tourists would no doubt have liked to get a closer view of the details given on the information panels near the picturesque square in the town of Vallehermoso. The panels, which stand in the shade of the impressive giant rock for which Valle-
hermoso is famous, are now a permanent spot for the bins used by local shops and bars, rather than one where useful information can be obtained by visitors, foreign and Spanish, who arrive every day. Maybe a little ‘first impressions’ reminder is needed for the local council, which is just yards away across the square… n
Mother giraffe rejects baby Carers at Oasis Park in Fuerteventura recently had a fight on their hands to save the latest of three giraffes born in the zoo. Only hours after the date of the baptism ceremony for the first two babies, who both arrived in June, was announced, another young ungulate was promptly delivered. Bakary, who was born at Oasis Park in 2010, gave birth in the full light of day in the African Savannah area on July 30. Unfortunately, she rejected her offspring – an occasional problem with first borns - and carers had to hand-feed the baby giraffe. Luckily, vets at the zoo were well prepared having already successfully reared another giraffe. Six large bottles a day are needed to provide sufficient nutrition and it can be a difficult process as babies often vehemently oppose the idea of human intervention. The first days are crucial but luckily Bakary’s baby accepted the
feeds, although the prognosis is still reserved. With this new addition, the Fuerteventura Zoo now houses 15 individuals - the largest group of giraffes in Spain. The births are the fruit of the excellent conservation work undertaken by the zoo. A giraffe’s life expectancy is between 25 and 40 years. Their gestation period is 457 days, they usually carry only one baby at a time, and nor-
mally give birth unaided, around 45 minutes after their waters break. Visitors to Oasis Park will be able to see the giraffes in the African Savannah area, including the latest edition’s father, Cofete, who is almost six metres tall. The enclosure is also home to various other animals, including examples of Scimitar Oryx, Cuvier’s Gazelles, hippos and n many more.
Health Service turn-around
Illegal immigrants to get free care again New regional health minister Jesús Morera has kept a promise to review the ban on illegal immigrants receiving free health care. Morera set himself the priority of scrapping controversial rules adopted at the end of 2012 which stripped up to 40,000 people in the Canaries, most of them immigrants without the required residency permits, from free access to health centres. The measure triggered a storm of protest at the time, with charities and NGOs accusing the government of worsening the plight of people already forced to live on the margins of society. Several doctors also complained at the decision and vowed to continue to treat needy cases, even if it led to disciplinary action.
Photo: IC Media Group/ Margot Aigner
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Refugees have been coming to the Canary Islands for years, in the hope of a better life
All Spain’s regions were forced by the Spanish government to apply the national legislation, which was part of a tightening up of immigration rules and a general drive to cut the cost of the health service. However, several parts of the country have now initiated the process of reversing their policies to
open health centres again to illegal immigrants. The Canarian government hopes to have new legislation in place by October, according to Morera. “We are committed to providing free and universal care to all those who live here, irrespective of status” assured n the minister.
CANARY ISLANDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Untapped energy potential
Photo: Gran Canaria Cabildo
Powering future generations
Antonio Morales Méndez at the planting of the prickly pears to be used for biomass A geothermal power plant in the Philippines
During the workshop, experts reaffirmed the great potential of geothermal energy available in all the islands of the archipelago. For example, Lanzarote could power the entire 450 megawatts consumed in both Lanzarote and Fuerteventura solely by the volcanic heat it produces. In Gran Canaria it would be possible to power hotels and other large consumers of energy by geothermal centres which could cater for a large percentage of the island’s requirements. The power source is environmentally friendly, hidden from view and pays for itself relatively quickly. Geothermal installations require very little space and are barely noticeable. They’re also free of fossil fuel reliance and approximately 60 per cent of all energy costs could be saved once the installations are fully paid off.
Photo: Mike Gonzalez
Celestino García’s words were clear: “Make no mistake, future generations will pay the price if we do not begin to use the geothermal potential of the Canary Islands in order to produce energy.” The project manager for geothermal energy at the Spanish Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources told members at a recent conference in Gran Canaria that the time to utilise the Canaries’ natural resources to power future generations is now upon us. The conference was organised by the local council’s Office of Economic Development and opened by the island president Antonio Morales Méndez who is strongly committed to making better use of renewable energy sources in the Canaries. Guests included experts from the Institute for Renewable Energies (ITER) from Tenerife, representatives of the Canarian Institute of Volcanology, and the president of the geothermal company providing the technological platform for geothermal energy in Spain.
Studies by the United States Environmental Protection Agency show that geothermal energy is the cleanest and most environmentally-friendly energy source available. By drilling and placing tubes into the earth, underground water is heated, brought to the surface and used for energy production. The geothermal gradient, which is the difference in temperature between the core and the surface, brings a continuous conduction of thermal energy in the form of heat. Local conditions determine the depth of the drilling necessary. Studies on geothermal energy in the Canaries were conducted in the 1940s and 1970s so it’s confusing as to why it has taken until now for the case to be pressed: The Islands have enormous potential and many perfect areas to install centres. Another energy idea discussed during the conference was the use of ocean thermal energy which uses the temperature difference between cooler, warmer or surface seawaters to run a heat engine. Antonio Morales Méndez also stated that the Islands’ current renewable energy installations, utilising wind and solar energy,
CANARY ISLANDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Photo: Gran Canaria Cabildo
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Energy experts stressed the importance of geothermal energy use in the Canaries
are already there and are upgradeable, adding that the use of biomass and geothermal energy is “not a dream but a genuine reality.” Currently, the energy demand in Gran Canaria is 95 per cent covered by fossil fuels with extremely high costs to produce. The potential for geothermal
energy is so great that there are more than three million installations worldwide. Approximately one million centres are in Europe. Last year, 11,700 megawatts were produced globally. In the Azores, 22 per cent of the islands’ energy is produced by geothermal sources. Iceland cov-
ers 27 per cent of its energy requirements, and the Philippines almost a quarter. Lowtemperature geothermal energy can be used for air conditioning and heating hotels, businesses and industrial plants. Energy is produced in more than 80 countries in this way, which makes it even more inex-
plicable as to why geothermal energy is not already being used in the Canaries. The president of Gran Canaria stressed the importance for renewable energy by pointing to the wastewater treatment plant in the southeast of the island, which is using biomass from prickly pears planted over
nearly 13 hectares. The cacti are used for biomass, with the first sewage treatment plant in Europe soon to be powered independently by the energy source. In the first phase of the project it was expected to produce 2.2 million kilowatts per hour, then slowly rising up to eight million kilowatts which could then power the treatment plant. Currently, the WWTP Southeast project produces seven million kilowatts per hour. The cost of the initiative has been around €600,000 for the conversion of 5.6 million cubic metres of wastewater. These costs could be recouped as soon as spring next year, when the prickly pears can be harvested and used as ‘energy food’. Once the sewage treatment plant is fully operational using biomass energy, the plan is to power the southeast of the island using the same energy source over a period of five years. The president said that numerous hotels are interested in using biomass to meet their energy needs and plan to take advantage of the 40 per cent cost saving. Renewable energy is a subject which the island president has placed very high on n the agenda.
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The silenced voice of La Gomera
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
both issues and people. He’s a natural. When (then) Canarian president Paulino Rivero telephoned to announce the award: “I was totally surprised... I found myself unable to speak!” admits the Voice of La Gomera. “I’ve always seen myself as La Gomera’s man with the microphone. I’ve been here for eighty-two years, apart from a spell in Tenerife, where I was sent by my employer Álvaro Rodríguez López, to whom
radio contact with boats. It’s always cost me money, but I love it. I also had some professional TV training with Costera de Tecina”. When news of the award broke, Sito said: “I’m thrilled. My first thoughts are for my family. My daughter’s had serious health problems. I hope this’ll cheer everyone up after all the worry”. His island broadcasting story is extensive: “I was a CB Radio fan first. In the early fifties, a small transmitter helped us
Sito with Onda Tagoror logo Receiving the gold medal in Playa Santiago
“Finding out that TV could be transmitted to isolated places was an almost accidental discovery in 1967…then setting up the first local TV broadcast in 1986 was exciting. I was teaching electronics and my students and I managed to broadcast the carnival gala, with sound and images, illegally, to the whole town!” he enthused, just before the award ceremony. Several weeks later, incredibly, Onda Tagoror was forcibly shut down by regional government! They gave him the Gold Medal, then informed him just a few days later that his licence had I’m eternally grateful for my communications and air traffic controller training. I’ve never made a living from radio, apart
and the local priest to set up a parish radio. In the sixties we raised funds for a youngster who needed a wheelchair. It
was a wonderful experience, communicating with the world using my call sign EcoAlfa8KiloTango”.
Photo: TV Canaria
Sito Simancas is: “… like the Holy Trinity! He’s three in one: a journalist, a technical bod and everybody’s friend, whose three aspects gel together in his role as the Voice of La Gomera”. This veteran broadcaster is well known and, with his prodigious memory for faces, names and stories, Sito knows and gets on with everybody. His is an interesting story, with a recent twist surreal and ridiculous enough to try the patience, optimism and good humour of even this charming man. With energy and spark belying his years, Sito says he was ‘very surprised’ to hear in May that he’d been awarded a Gold Medal in the Premios Canarios awards, given by the Gobierno de Canarias for outstanding contributions to the Canary Islands and their culture. The award was made in recognition of his innovative, tireless and largely single-handed work in island broadcasting. The public sees Sito as a journalist, while he considers himself principally a technician, responsible for bringing TV to El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera. His good humour, optimism, unruffled calm and affection for all things Gomero are well known. Sito’s radio style is unique. I’ve pulled over while driving so I can laugh with him without plunging over a precipice. You
Photo: change.org
By Barbara Belt marvel at his easy treatment of from in 1956, but that was
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Sito receiving the gold medal, two days before his radio station was closed
“Later, I set up Radio Ipalán in San Sebastián, a station in Valle Gran Rey, Onda Tagoror in Playa Santiago - which is mine and still exists today - and others in Hermigua, Agulo and Vallehermoso. I’m still the technician for some radio stations. I’m not bothered about things being in my name. Collaboration with others is more enjoyable.
been revoked due to “lack of Canarian content.” Onda Tagoror, since its start in the nineties, was of service to the community, enjoyed freedom of expression and its content was overwhelmingly Canarian, so what’s the real story behind this extraordinary, and shameful, turn of events?
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015 The agitprop online platform change.org has mobilised a campaign of protest about the station’s closure and has collected nearly two thousand signatures to date. It maintains: “Tagoror complied with all technical and legal requirements. It had a very high content of music made and produced in the Canaries... The station regularly participated in folklore events, fiestas and other popular cultural events in La Gomera. To maintain that there is ‘absence of Canarian content’ is ridiculous. “This is another example of the way small Canarian enterprises with limited resources are being wiped out by big companies. Of the one hundred and fifty-six licences conceded, one hundred and thirty-two have ended up in the hands of five companies, of which Miguel Concepción’s (no radio experience), Canarias Difusión and KissFM stand out. KissFM’s Canarian content is notable by its absence”. Onda Tagoror was the only station broadcasting to all islands. There was also a marvellous weekly live connection with Venezuela, bringing Canarians on opposite sides of the Atlantic together.
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Sito in Playa Santiago
Sito, who admits to “having shed a lot of tears”, continued to stream Tagoror over the internet and waited to see what would happen. A week after the award ceremony at Santa Cruz’s Teatro Guimerá, political bigwigs present, and days after Tagoror’s closure, a second cere-
mony, organized by Alajero’s Mayor Manuel Ramon and deputy Nicolás, took place in Playa Santiago in honour of this illustrious Gomero and his Gold Medal. The congratulations were ringing a little hollow, given the circumstances, when into the fray stepped island president
Curbelo, there to present our man with a commemorative plaque from the Cabildo. “As of Monday (it was Friday) Sito Simancas will be given a radio station”, quoth he. “You and La Gomera deserve it”, he announced to Sito. “Use it while the problems with Tagoror are being resolved.
They can’t silence the Voice of La Gomera”. So Sito has taken to the island airwaves again with Onda Tagoror Gomera Insular, whilst continuing to stream the original Tagoror on www.ondatagoror. com. “I’m very touched by all the support, and I’m hopeful.
Why should a radio station that was forty-fifth on the list of ninety admitted stations by regional government in January this year suddenly be closed down?” Sign the petition on www. change.org/...ondatagoror/ to help Sito continue broadn casting.
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CANARY ISLANDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
La Orotava’s newest attraction
The Green Farm On a 10,000 square metre site in the La Orotava valley which used to house a small zoo, extensive renovations have turned an idyllic Canarian farmhouse, cottage and the land into a very different animal park and an excellent modern Canarian restaurant, making an unusual day out for all the family. Visitors of all ages will be delighted by the 16 native animal species living at the La Granja Verde Park. Camels, llamas and donkeys can be seen up close and the more adventurous can take a camel ride or pony trips are available for the younger members of the family. Guests can also see rabbits, cows, chickens, peacocks and sheep, as well as the wonderful black pigs, a breed native to the Canaries which most will rarely have had a chance to see. There are also various examples of the different types of goats which live around the Islands. The goats from the south of Tenerife differ from those which live in the north: those in the south have a shorter coat and are able to adapt to the drier environment. Fuerteventura goats produce plenty of milk, and the goats’ milk from La Palma is particularly rich in alpha-casein, a valuable protein which is especially important for cheese production. La Palma’s goat, called La Cabra Palmera, is the oldest breed in the Canaries. All began as wild animals, but today they are domesticated and kept mainly in La Palma and Tenerife. Many of the breeds that live on the farm are endemic and are
Mayor Francisco Linares (centre), with employees and managers Blas Martín and Leticia Dorta (far right)
protected species because they are threatened with extinction. Some of the very smallest creatures are also bred there, for example earthworms which are used in the farm fields. Grapes typical to the island, such as Negramoll and Listán Negro and Blanco, are grown using local methods. There are seven orchards with citrus fruit trees and a range of others from apples to plums, as well as exotic fruits such as the prickly pear, pomegranate and Carambola. Even pineapples grow in the mild coastal climate with slightly acidic ground, but growing exotic fruit requires much patience as it may take 18 months before they can be harvested. There’s also a banana and papaya plantation, and of course the farm would not be complete without a vegetable and herb garden.
The products are used in the country-house style Dula y Pipa restaurant which has a warm and cosy atmosphere. The emphasis is on typical Canarian dishes, but chef Juan Carlos Clemente also fuses traditional island cuisine with creative and modern elements. Every Sunday there is brunch and on Tuesdays and Sundays visitors can order a green box which contains seasonal, organically grown products and costs just €14 for two people or €19 for four. You’ll be given a surprise mix of what nature has on offer at the time and it’s best to order a day in advance. There is also an area for functions, and small or large groups can, on request, be accommodated in the wonderful Canarian atmosphere of the restaurant. There are introductory discounts on admission prices until the end of this year, so plan an unusual family day n out soon!
Ecological diversity from their own garden The restaurant offers modern Canarian flair
La Granja Verde The Canarian pig is black and in danger of extinction. Only a few farmers breed these special swine
Donkeys were once beasts of burden carrying out important work in the Canaries, now they are rarely seen
Summer hours: 10am to 6pm Winter hours: 10am to 5pm Admission: Non residents: Adults €11, children from 4 to 11 years old, €7. Residents: €8 for adults and €5.50 for children. 20 per cent discount on admission until the end of this year. Green box: Tuesdays and Sundays, order one day in advance. Restaurant Dula y Pipa opening times: Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm Dinner: Friday and Saturday, 6.30pm to 11pm Brunch: Sundays 10am to 1pm. Address: Granja Verde. Trasera Camino del Torreón 2. El Ramal La Orotava Tel. 922 33 35 09 · www.lagranjaverde.es Directions: Take the La Orotava /Teide turn-off, then go beneath the motorway towards the service road.
CANARY ISLANDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Tenerife’s employment situation
El Médano
Jazz Roja returns! The second run of Jazz Roja will take place in El Médano between November 7 and 15. This year’s event was initially scheduled for April, but was postponed following the death of cofounder María Fernández Couso. Festival Jazz Roja, or The Red Mountain Jazz Festival, was conceived as a means of consolidating the diverse artistic talent available on the island of Tenerife, and offering it to both residents and visitors. Whereas many jazz festivals throughout Spain often favour international musicians over those available in their own regions, Jazz Roja is confident that Jazz ‘made in the Canaries’ is of a world standard. As a result of the 2014 Jazz Roja, several artists who participated are now either contracted, or in negotia-
tions, with international record labels and festival organisers. The festival will include multiple events at El Médano’s Plazas Galicia and Roja, in addition to the six day long Jazz Route, an After-Jazz Party and a jam session on the 15th. There will be a total of 14 freeentry concerts, including vocal jazz, acid jazz, electronic, blues, funk, world fusion, swing and soul. Organised by Qfm 94.3 and its cultural association (Asociación Cultural para la Difusión de las Artes y Músicas de Canarias), with the Granadilla Council’s cultural department, and co-organised with A.M.A.E. (Academia de Músicos y Artistas en Escena), Asociación Promusic Canarias, the IC Media Group, Sigeart and Fundacion Be Flat, the project incorporates some of the most experienced and tal-
ented human resources and logistical support available to the Canary Islands. A medium-term aim of the project is to convert the south of Tenerife into the European capital of jazz for ten days each year. Established jazz festivals such as San Javier, Vitoria, and also newer events such as the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival, are proof that such festivals not only stimulate the local economy, but also project a positive image of a cosmopolitan society to the international arena. A longer term goal is to create organised international tourism associated with the event, aiming its market towards Northern Europeans. Listen to the Qfm 94.3 cultural guides or visit www.jazzroja.com for more information, and of course we’ll tell you more in the next edition of Island Connections. n
Legislation surrounding apartment letting is under scrutiny
Competition regulator to examine holiday lets law of owners have fallen foul of the clause and could see the value of their properties tumble if short-term rentals are not possible. It has submitted a petition to Spain’s Markets and Competition Commission for a review of the legislation on the grounds that it gives a monopoly to hotels in tourist resorts. The Commission has agreed to hear the complaint
and has summoned ASCAV to a preliminary meeting to discuss the case, although it is thought the meeting in Madrid will not take place for several months. Meanwhile, ASCAV and other bodies, including business associations in south Tenerife, continue to press the new Canarian government to repeal the legislation. n
Photo: Agnieszka Szuba/freeimages.com
Spain’s competition regulator is to look into the legality of the new Canarian law on holiday lets. As reported here, the new legislation enacted by the regional government has dashed the hopes of tens of thousands of holiday home owners that they would be able to rent their properties to tourists. Although relaxing many of the conditions for short-term lets, the authorities included a clause which effectively prevents properties in tourist areas from being rented out. The law has been criticised heavily by ASCAV, the local association which has been battling on behalf of holiday let owners for fairer treatment. ASCAV says that up to 90 per cent
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Legislation surrounding apartment letting is under scrutiny
Tourism doubles jobs in five years The number of work contracts linked to the tourism sector has increased, and is accompanied by a fall in unemployment figures of over six per cent. Island councillor for tourism Alberto Bernabé said “In the first seven months of this year an average of 9,835 contracts were signed each month, compared with the average for 2010 of only 4,464”. The balance for the first seven months of this year also shows that around 40 per cent of all new work contracts corresponded to the tourism sector. In July, the unemployment rate on the island fell by 6.3 per cent, and what’s more, this was the lowest unemployment rate in the tourism sector recorded in the month of July in the last four years. In July alone, 13,400 new contracts were signed in the tour-
Photo: Gölin Doorneweerd-Swijnenburg/freeimages.com
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
The picturesque beauty of Tenerife ensures an upswing in tourism
ism sector. Compared with July last year, this is an increase of 8.6 per cent, and compared with June this year, it’s up by 25.6 per cent. Despite these very positive figures, Bernabé insists that we can’t relax
yet, as around 90 per cent of these new contracts are of a temporary nature. He says, “We must continue to work to ensure that as many of these are converted into stable, fixed n employment.”
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TENERIFE GENERAL
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Celso Albelo
Photo: Michael Poehn
Celso Albelo is a world renowned tenor who was born in Tenerife in 1976. When we see his name in a programme listing, for example during the Opera season at the Tenerife Auditorium, he is usually simply referred to as a “Tenerife-born tenor”, but there is much more to Celso than that appellation suggests. Celso Albelo specialises in light opera and recitals. He is currently considered one of the best tenors of our time and is a truly international artist. Like many of the great Spanish singers, he has a full-bodied voice, smooth and easy, with a bright and attractive tone. Add this to his refined vocal phrasing and expressive diction, and it’s no wonder the songs he performs are
Photo: Fidelio Artist - Joan Tomás
The dulcet tones of the Tenerife-born tenor
Performing in Ann Boleyn, in Vienna Celso is clearly happy with his operatic career
guaranteed to take the audience to previously uncharted areas.
Island Connections spoke to Celso shortly before he set off for Australia, the only continent where he had wanted to perform but hadn’t yet done so. He was there to play the role of Arturo in I Puritani at the Arts Centre in Melbourne. We asked him how his musical career began. Celso told Island Connections that he grew up as part of a normal Canarian family whose members weren’t professionally involved in music but who do enjoy the local folk sounds. He had a normal childhood and school life, where he wasn’t particularly involved in music either. While he was at university, however, at the age of 18 or 19, the opportunity arose for him to take guitar lessons and it was then that he started to sing a little too. He enjoyed
had the aptitude or the talent, but I was wrong. It’s a wonderful profession, but I’ll never forget where I came from, my roots, and other things which are fundamental to me.” His work clearly takes him far away from Tenerife, and for long periods, and we asked him what he misses about the island. Not surprisingly, he told us that when he’s in Central Europe he misses the sea the most, and after that, the simple things in life like going
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La Laguna in early September to take part in the Sabandeño Festival (with Los Sabandeños, the island’s renowned folklore group which is celebrating its 50th anniversary year), alongside several national artists. This will make a big change for Celso as he won’t be singing opera. Following that, he’ll be back on the island in December. His other diary dates this year are: Macerata in Italy and San Sebastián and Santander in northern
For his talent, sacrifice and dedication, he has been awarded, amongst others, with the Ópera Actual Prize in 2008; the Óscar de la Lírica by the Verona per l’Arena Foundation in 2010 and 2012; The Campoamor Lyrical Theatre Prize in 2010 and in 2012; the Cantante Revelación for Puritani; and the Best Tenor of the Season for L’Elisir d’amore during the Asociación Bilbaína de Amigos de la Ópera sea-
Celso Albelo as Arnold in Rossini’s William Tell, at Monte Carlo
you’re always going to be nervous and have the fear (that all singers have) that you won’t be good enough, that you’ll forget the words, that the audience won’t be able to hear you, or whatever, but once you start singing it’s a bit like riding a bike – you find your balance and off you go. The most important thing is to enjoy what you’re doing.” Although he performs recitals as well, Celso concentrates on opera, so he has to balance his singing with the part he’s playing that at the same time requires him to be an actor. Since 2006 he has performed at some of the most famous opera houses in the world, and continues to do so habitually, including the Royal Opera House in London, the Paris National Opera, and at venues in Holland, Belgium, Vienna, Switzerland, Germany, Spain,
China, Japan and more in the UK (The Royal Albert Hall for the BBC Proms and Wigmore Hall for the Rosenblatt Recitals, for example). The list is far too long for all of them to be included. Celso has also worked with a long list of world famous singers and conductors. He has learned many things from all of them and said that “each one has something that no-one else has, and that not only applies to how they sing but also to how they manage their careers.” We asked Celso if he ever thought that his career would reach this point. He told us “No, never. I left Tenerife thinking that I’d like to dedicate myself to music professionally, and I thought that maybe I could have been in a choir, but nothing like this, and certainly not on an international level. I didn’t think I
Photo: Roberto Ricci
these two activities greatly so he enrolled for singing lessons as well, rendering versions of typical Spanish songs such as Juramé, a classic which has been recorded by a host of artists. It was during these lessons with his first music teacher that he realised he was interested in learning to sing classical music. So, after university he went on to train at the Superior Music Conservatory in Santa Cruz with Isabel Garcia Soto, and later at the Reina Sofia Superior Singing School in Madrid with Tom Krause and Manuel Cid. Later, he perfected his training with Carlo Bergonzi at the Busseto Academy in Italy, using up most of his savings to do so. Bergonzi, an Italian operatic tenor, had told Celso that if he trained with him he would have him singing in front of the whole world in two months. Bergonzi believed in him, and he did indeed bring him to the stage where he could sing in front of large audiences in a very short space of time. With his training complete, work soon began to flow for Celso, and he has never looked back. Sadly, Carlo Bergonzi passed away last year, leaving a big vacuum. Celso, whose career would never have unfolded in this way, or at least not as fast as it did, if Bergonzi hadn’t crossed his path, said simply “he was a maestro in every way.” After his training with Bergonzi, in 2006 Celso entered the highest echelons of the international opera scene after his success in Busseto, playing the Duque de Mantua in Verdi’s Rigoletto, during which he sang alongside Leo Nucci, a highly recognised baritone. Celso admits to having been nervous before going on stage at first, but he said that “you become accustomed to the fact
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Photo: Fidelio Artist
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Celso performing in Elisir d’Amore in Parma, Italy
out for a drink or a meal with friends, the Canarian people and the food. He added that he’s got to know many marvellous places in the world now, and that this has taught him to give more value to Tenerife, for its climate and its many other unique peculiarities. Clearly Celso is very busy, and we wanted to know when we could see him in Tenerife again. He told us that he would be in the Plaza del Cristo in
Spain during August. Monte Carlo in September; Vienna in October; and the Liège in December. There is also the Metropolitan in New York in February next year, Berlin in March and Barcelona in May. We’ll give you more information about Celso’s Tenerife dates on our Spin and What’s On pages nearer the time, and you can always find out more from his official website at: www.celsoalbelo.com.
son in Bilbao. In 2013, he received the Canary Islands Gold Medal and the Giuseppe Lugo award, and in 2014 he was awarded a prize by Codalario, a specialist music magazine. With his great international projection, our award winning tenor Celso Albelo makes a wonderful ambassador for the Canary Islands, and for Tenerife in particular - where he has an n enormous following.
TENERIFE GENERAL
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Exotic pets on the run
Photo: Fundación Neotrópico
Snakes on the plain
A corn snake was captured in Parque de La Reina in July
Although the Canary Islands are not home to any indigenous poisonous animals, every now and then there’s a report of a sighting of snakes which can sometimes be a cause for overexcitement. However, these stories are usually ‘home-made’ and tend to originate from the finding of an escaped reptilian pet, which happens more often than one would think. The Fundación Neotrópica based in La Laguna, a wildlife sanctuary for exotic species, recently intervened in a surprise sighting in Parque de La Reina after an early-morning call. An 80cm long corn snake (pantherophis guttatus) was promptly caught, and as these reptiles usually grow to 1.2 to 1.8 metres in length this was a young specimen. The corn snake originates from the east coast of North America and adapts well to different living conditions. While they can look slightly ominous to the average bystander, this snake is not dangerous to humans and only feeds on small mammals, birds and reptiles which they usually hunt at night. They like to inhabit areas close to farms for the wide variety of rodents available to choose from. This type of snake is typically quiet and unassuming and therefore
makes an ideal domestic pet for snake-lovers, although owning such an animal is prohibited in the Canary Islands in a bid to protect natural ecosystems. The recent sighting in Parque de La Reina is not the first time such a pet has escaped and caused panic. In June 2013, police in Guía de Isora were called to catch a common kingsnake spotted in a valley near the town. The constrictor feeds on lizards, birds, small mammals and other snakes, and if it feels threatened it can spray a foul-smelling fluid to warn off predators. Like the corn snake, it is not dangerous to humans. In August 2013 a python was discovered in a park in the centre of Santa Cruz, and in October of the same year a resident of La Orotava found an escaped snake on their terrace. Early last year, a python was discovered in a palm grove in Maspalomas in Gran Canaria while another was captured in El Fraile in Arona, Tenerife. In June 2014 a snake caused panic on the Cueva Laya beach in the borough of Santa Lucía de Tirajana on the east coast of Gran Canaria. Another python was sighted in August last year in a grassed area on Avenida Benito Pérez Armas
Photo: Gran Canaria Cabildo
This snake found in Gran Canaria likes to nest in cool places
Exotic snakes are usually captured by the authorities in cooperation with experts from wildlife sanctuaries,
in Santa Cruz, while in September a local resident of the capital scared the living daylights out of some poor unwitting folk after they came across his pet snake on a park bench on Avenida Tres de Mayo.
who can often help with key information related to the species found. The Fundación Neotrópica accepts many of these ‘strays’, as well as other types of exotic wildlife such n as injured sea turtles.
Tenerife museum praised
Top climate control system
A small museum in north Tenerife may be off the beaten track for most tourists but is now very much on the map for experts in climate control systems. The History and Anthropology Museum in Valle Guerra, better known as the Casa Carta, has merited a chapter in a new book published by the prestigious Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles, which examines techniques for ensuring proper climate control in museums in warm or humid climates. The book, by Getty’s head of environmental sciences, Shin Maekawa, praises the small museum for the passive system it has put in place for monitoring and controlling relative humidity to ensure proper conservation of its valuable collections of traditional Canarian dress and other period items on display. The news has delighted staff at the Casa Carta, which rarely merits mention in publications due to its location off the main visitor routes. Back in 2007, the Getty Conservation Institute organised an international meeting of experts on Alternative Climate Controls for Historic Buildings in Tenerife. n
All photos: www.inselteneriffa.com
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TENERIFE GENERAL
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Photo: Koppchen
The filming of the new Jason Bourne action thriller in Santa Cruz will leave its mark well after the cameras and actors have departed Tenerife. The island’s capital is drawing up plans to turn the different locations used for the shoots into official tourist routes to keep the historic occasion alive. Taking a leaf out of Northern Ireland’s Game of Thrones industry, which is based on the locations used for the filming of many well-known scenes from the popular series, Santa Cruz hopes to create an itinerary that will take Bourne fans to a number of different parts of the city, including the old area and Valleseco on the outskirts. “The locations will be of interest to the emerging niche of film tourism, which is becoming increasingly popular and one we should tap into” explained a council source. The latest in the series of action blockbusters is expected to generate up to €7 million in revenue for Santa Cruz, and city chiefs have been at pains to point out that the location will not cost the public purse a single euro, even in overtime for police and council workers, given that Universal Studios will pick up the bill. n
Shark training at Loro Parque Unlike whales, dolphins and sea lions, sharks and rays rarely undergo training. However, similar practices can be used by experts to ensure the animals’ conservation and welfare, including regular inspections, treatment and care. Loro Parque near Puerto de La Cruz has developed a revolutionary training system adapted solely for sharks and rays, which allows specialists to look after them under the best possible conditions. The system is flexible and works in harmony with the natural behaviour of the species in question. So far it has only been introduced to a few zoos in Europe but reports show that it is ideal for handling and that the animals are responding extremely well. Sharks and rays are being trained to swim in a speciallydesigned stretcher that is submerged in the water and allows the subject to be at ease. They quietly move within this protected space so that experts can perform tests, scans and other necessary procedures while causing the least possible stress to the animal. “The aim of this form of training is to engage the subject and monitor its voluntary responses, as well as perform blood tests to identify pregnant sharks and rays and carry out routine procedures” Loro Parque aquarist Ester Alonso explained. “To have the oppor-
According to the IUCN and Shark Alliance, one third of all sharks are endangered
tunity to perform clinical blood tests on a shark or ray that voluntarily cooperates and doesn’t feel under stress is an enormous step. In some cases we have been able to increase life expectancy.” The individual subjects are trained to respond to specific colours and shapes tailored to their respective species so that
every animal has their own system of stimulation. Dr. Javier Almunia, environmental director at Loro Parque, emphasised the importance of these natural predators interacting voluntarily with specialists. The results being achieved are directly reflected in the animals’ welfare and Almunia firmly believes that sharks
can be trained like other species. He also stated that they are, in contrast to how they’re depicted in Hollywood movies for example, “neither particularly dangerous nor aggressive”. Forty years after the release of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws and these sea creatures are still generally highly-feared all over the world: a situation that has hardly been conducive to their conservation. According to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and the Shark Alliance, one third of all sharks are threatened with extinction. As major players in this field, Loro Parque continues to act as the perfect mediator between humans and animals, believing that information and education are the best basis for animal welfare. Through continual innovation and the implementation of new initiatives, the park has been repeatedly named the best zoo in Europe and the second best in the n world by TripAdvisor.
Photo: Fbattail
Bourne legacy plans for Santa Cruz
One of the old town’s most striking buildings: Will the Nuestra Señora de la Concepción cathedral soon be a movie set?
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Big fish, small pond
The story continues…
Photo: Loro Parque
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Sharks are “neither particularly dangerous nor aggressive”
LIVING & LIFESTYLE
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Taking control
Pleasing perspectives Photo: FreeImages.com/Cecilia Johansson
Take a few minutes a day to live in the moment
Do a check It is particularly easy in this consumer age to feel as though you are lacking in… everything, and to forget how blessed the majority of us in the West are. One of the first things you can do to brighten up your day is to do a mental check. Simply ask yourself: Do you have a roof over your head that you can pay for relatively easily? Check. Do you have enough food? Check. Do you have a
Look on the bright side It’s a simple evolutionary fact – we are hardwired to remem-
Photo: FreeImages.com/Wojciech Bekiesz
When you wake up in the morning and you dread the day, it’s time to make a change
the majority, yes, the majority, of the world’s population. And do you eat out occasionally? Own a car? Computer, telephone, sound system? Go to
Photo: FreeImages.com/Gabor Kalman
If you wake up in the morning and you’re just not looking forward to yet another day of the same, you know it is time to make a change. Almost all of us will have had a period or two in our lives when we realise we aren’t exactly happy with our situations. You know, those times when there isn’t anything you can pinpoint but you feel as though you’re missing out on something and are lacking the energy to be excited. If you’re not going through any life-changing circumstances such as a divorce or death of a loved one, and have ruled out any medical condition that may be making you feel under the weather, it’s possible that your lack of enthusiasm is down to the way you are looking at life rather than the need to make any radical alterations. Sometimes, the greatest changes in how you view and enjoy your life can be made without varying one single aspect of your everyday actions. After all, it’s not what you do that makes you happy: it’s the way you perceive your experiences that makes the difference. Adjusting your perspective isn’t always easy, but can be worked on over time, chipping away at negative thought patterns until you achieve a happier, more content outlook.
Photo: FreeImages.com/Isra López
By Xena Fox
Many of us spend far too much time thinking about past ‘wrongs’
selection of shoes and clothes that you can choose from every day and a washing machine to clean them in? Check. Do you
have electricity and only have to turn the tap on to get water? Check. So far, so good. You are already much better off than
the cinema, theatre, out with friends, on holiday occasionally? Yes? You have a nice life. Enjoy it.
We are captains of our own destiny
LIVING & LIFESTYLE
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about. Lots of people waste huge amounts of energy either being angry at themselves or furious at others. Accept people aren’t perfect. Forgive yourself for not being perfect either, and move on. The past only exists in your thoughts. Let go of it and embrace the present.
then you can start incorporating quality time into your life by taking a series of ‘mini breaks’. Begin by trying to pause for just five minutes, several times a day if you can. For those few moments just stop whatever you are doing and look around you: listen to the birds, feel the sunshine, truly see the trees, the mountains and beaches, and really enjoy those precious seconds. Immerse yourself in the moment and simply enjoy being.
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753 the ability to go back over all our memories, including the fun ones, and have the capacity to create a balance in our minds. Concentrating on the positive in our lives – both what we have now and the good in the past – makes us
Photo: FreeImages.com/Alyssa Lee
Photo: FreeImages.com/Cassy Collins
ber the negative things that have happened to us: back in the cave days, those who could retain information regarding danger would survive longer – when something bad happens to us it sticks in our minds. But we are also blessed with
Love wherever you are in life at any given moment
Appreciate age It seems we are never happy with how old we are. When we are five we want to be six; at 13 it’s 18; as the big 60 looms we dream wistfully of being 30 again. But life is a progression and you might as well accept it –– it is the one thing you truly cannot change. Enjoy each stage of your life for what it is: a part of you. You are on a journey and there’s no going back. Make the most of every era.
Take control If you feel like you are being swept along in life it is time to acknowledge the dozens of decisions you make every day: from what you wear and eat, to who you speak to and see, there are endless choices that mean you are in control. Drop the feeling of being at everyone else’s mercy by recognising that, ultimately, it
Accept mortality People die. They do. No one likes to talk about it much but it happens all the same anyway: You will lose loved ones
Photo: FreeImages.com/ María Luisa Gutiérrez
A change of outlook can improve your whole life
feel more complete and gives us a greater feeling of having enjoyed our lives, therefore encouraging excitement for what is to come.
Photo: FreeImages.com/Charlie Balch
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Photo: FreeImages.com/Clementina De Leo
Make every birthday a happy one and celebrate your age
Enjoy the present and look to the future
Be responsible
Friends can be a great help when changing our perspective
Not only by making your actions good ones but also by taking responsibility for your actions. Let go of resentments, or at least see where you could have played a part in making many undesirable situations come
is you who is steering your own ship.
Take time Many feel that life is just passing them by, that work and family commitments take up every minute of every day and that they have no time at all for themselves. If this is you
and one day you will go too. Taking a moment to contemplate that fact occasionally – not morbidly, just accepting it as true – can very quickly put life’s minor irritations into perspective. This is your life; this is the one shot you have. Afterlife or not – this is the one time you will have this very life you n have now. Enjoy it.
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In our 3,000 square metre centre you will find the best selection of lamps of all styles on offer, with over 5,000 different models available, all at
Ctra. General C-820, Travesía la Panadería, 1 38440 Santo Domingo (La Guancha) Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Tel / Fax: 922 130 301
FOOD
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Emilio y Mar
A firm favourite By John Friends from Scotland are staying with us: hotel owners in the Highlands. They are keen to discover ‘Guachincheland’. There appear to be more guachinches around the area of La Corujera, above the town of Santa Úrsula, than anywhere else on this planet. We set off up the vertiginous streets towards La Corujera, and our friends hang on for dear life. Never, they say, have they seen such steep roads. Before and aft are those transport icons of the local inhabitants; no self-respecting family being complete without a huge Toyota Landcruiser or an equally huge Toyota HiLux. Dusk descends as we brave the ascent, and the masters of their Toyotas are returning from their daily toil to the family fold before taking their clan to eat in a nearby guachinche. It is, after all, Friday evening. Lights are twinkling in the hills above us, and the behemoths turn off and vanish into the bowels of garages beneath their houses which, when with gaping maw flung wide, reveal space, I swear, for at least a dozen London buses. We climb higher and higher before levelling out at our target, the guachinche called Emilio y Mar. We have been here before, indeed a number of times, but not willing on this occasion to join the lengthy queue of locals prepared to wait patiently for a table to become free, I had rung ahead and, surprisingly, they have allowed me to book a table. Is it not another world when one is prepared to join a queue before being allowed to sit on an uncomfortable seat at a table adorned with a faded plastic tablecloth, the whole situated in what may best be described as a commercial lorry garage hung with pictures? The secret is in the food, the prices, the friendship and the atmosphere.
There is a new printed menu! Fortunately, all the old favourites are still there. We could start with grilled cheese, chickpea stew, fabada, roasted red peppers, salad and the like, before moving on to immense pork chops, pork steaks, beef chops, goat or chicken. All are thrown on to the fiery brazier at the back of the building. There is a bar to one side if you can forswear the chops, and a tiny kitchen in which the mouth-
watering chips and other delicacies are prepared. Father is
on the brazier, mother is doing the kitchen, and a daughter is,
totally serenely, taking orders and handling meals for about 40 diners all at one go. It is worth just watching her as she goes about her business. Apart from the warm bread rolls, our starters, to share, are a mixed salad, a platter of local white cheese with olives, a bowl of garbanzas (those chick peas) and a platter of goat with chips. To follow come four pork chops and one bistec - an immense frizbee-sized piece of pork steak, enough for two. Yes, and a mountain of hand-cut chips, too. They do better chips in that tiny kitchen than many up-market restaurants can achieve. Our friends tucked in and looked around in amazement. Later, they vouchsafed that this had been the best meal of their week in Tenerife, despite us having taken them to some well-known establishments
supposedly much higher up the culinary pecking order. Everyone has a favourite guachinche: this one is one of ours. The bill, including two litres of house wine, bread and water, was about €10 a head. What n a result!
Guachinche Emilio y Mar Calle Nueva Corujera 127. La Corujera (Santa Úrsula). Tenerife. Tel: 922 301 759 and 619 214 256. Open: Wednesday and Thursday 12.30pm to 4pm and 7pm to 10pm; Friday and Saturday: 12.30pm to 5pm and 7pm to 10pm; Sundays and festivals: 12.30pm to 5pm. Closed for summer break until September 2. Loo Score: 6/10
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Canary Islands’ attractions for tourists and residents Island life
Contact details
Music and concerts
Cultural agenda
Summary of the Canaries
General information
Spin news
What’s on
Page 22 & 23
Pages 24 & 25
Page 26 & 27
Page 28
Seven Islands, seven beloved images the prior of the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Candelaria who unfortunately passed away three years ago. The two wanted to be able to offer the religious community and the general public the opportunity to admire a range of sacred art from around the archipelago. The collection, which has already visited various islands, was formed in 2009 and is continuing its tour in Tenerife this year. Its next stop will be the Convento de San Agustin in Tacoronte from September 1 to 21 for the Fiestas del Cristo, which will take place throughout the month, and it will then be installed in Genoves, Garachico, from October 1 to 15 to coincide with the Fiestas de
la Virgen de Fátima. For more information you can contact Santi directly by emailing: semillas19@yahoo.es. You can also find him on facebook at: Santi Glez Arbelo Tenerife or see a round up of previous exhibitions at: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=b1k3cNfDmu8. n Photo: Gustavo Nueso Padgett
very own Virgen de Candelaria who is also patron saint of all the Canary Islands. There are also representations of the patrons of Venezuela, Nuestra Señora del Coromoto, and of Cuba, Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre, due to the strong historic links that both these countries have with the Islands. The perfectly executed statuettes are reproduced down to the finest detail and each is an incredible objet d’art in its own right. As well as these and paintings by the artist, the informative show takes a journey through times past via a fascinating compilation of photos and videos. The original idea for the exhibition was conceived by Santi and Father Jesús Mendoza,
Photo: Santiago G. Arbelo
Each year during the summer period it is traditional for La Laguna artist Santi Glez Arbelo to display a very particular collection of religious art works. Called Virgen María, Siete Islas, Siete Amores (Virgin Mary, Seven Islands, Seven Loves), the touring exhibition is dedicated to the patron saints of each of the seven Canary Islands and should delight those fascinated by sacred art. One of the main attractions is a range of beautiful reproductions of the various statues of the patron saints from around the archipelago. Each of the islands here has its own patron, from the Virgen de las Nieves of La Palma and the Virgen de Los Reyes from El Hierro to Tenerife’s
Photo: Santiago G. Arbelo
Sacred exhibition
The Blessed Virgin Mary is worshipped everywhere - in the Canaries especially
HOLIDAY GUIDE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
The Canaries have what is considered one of the best climates anywhere on the planet, making the Islands the perfect destination for all year round tourism.
ous luxury hotels and some very nice, small white sand beaches. In the foothills above these towns you will find three great places to visit. Siam Park (The Water Kingdom), recently declared the best in the world, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to adrenaline freaks. See: www. siampark.net Aqualand, on Avenida de Austria, a water park with a dolphin show. See: www.aqualand.es. The Jungle Park, at Las Águilas del Teide, is great fun for kids of all ages. See: www.aguilasjunglepark.com
Tenerife Teide National Park The highest peak in Spain, at 3,718m, is one of Tenerife’s greatest attractions. It is possible to hike to the top, and also to catch the cable car. See: www.telefericoteide.com. To access the summit of the volcano, Pico del Teide, you need to obtain a free permit in advance, issued by the Administration Office of the National Park, which you can download at www.reservasparquesnacionales.es.
Los Gigantes
Benijo beach
summer solstices. See: www. piramidesdeguimar.es
Santa Cruz
Playa de Las Américas
Santa Cruz, the vibrant, bustling capital city of Tenerife, is located on the northeast coast. It has a variety of interesting museums and art galleries, a well maintained historical centre, and an important commercial port. See: www.santacruzmas.com.
The town of Puerto de la Cruz was a popular tourist destination long before the south was. Its attractive and busy town centre has maintained its picturesque fishing-village charm, and nearby is the prestigious, award-winning Loro Parque Zoo. See: www.loroparque.com.
Bananas
La Orotava One of the prettiest towns on the island, La Orotava also gives its name to the whole valley, which has a very prosperous history. The town centre has beautiful old mansions reflecting the wealth of the past.
Anaga Rural Park The Anaga Rural Park occupies much of the mountainous mas-
Los Cristianos sif in the northeastern corner of Tenerife. This is a steeplysloping area with exceptional natural and cultural treasures, and amazing landscapes.
Güímar This northeastern town is best known for the ethnographic park which was developed by Thor Heyerdahl. The pyramids are a complex construction, astronomically orientated according to the winter and
Once a little fishing village, Los Cristianos began as a tourist destination for ailing Swedes who came to enjoy some rest and recuperation. From the port you can take a ferry to La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro. The two main beaches offer safe swimming with disabled access.
Costa Adeje Costa Adeje is an upmarket area of South West Tenerife
Qfm, Spain’s only Cool Jazz Radio station www.Qmusica.com
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Puerto de la Cruz
El Duque beach
Currently Tenerife’s main tourist destination, this area has spectacular views of La Gomera. There’s a big night-life scene which attracts younger tourists, but it’s also somewhere you can relax, eat, and go sailing, whale and dolphin watching or golfing.
La Laguna La Laguna, a university city, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. It has a lively night life and a thriving cultural scene.
which is popular with European, Russian and national tourists. There are vari-
The town of Los Gigantes, which lives mainly from tourism but on a much more modest scale than Playa de Las Americas or Los Cristianos, is overlooked by the towering cliffs. There is good diving and a small harbour.
Daily Cultural Guide updated every day in English at 07:45, 09:45, 11:45, 13:45, 15:45, 17:45 & 19:45.
And don’t miss Qfm’s famous Sunset Sessions, an exclusive chill-out mix every evening. The Asociación Cultural para la Difusión de las Artes y las Músicas de Canarias, registered with the Gobierno de Canarias (G1/S1/16504-10/TF), operates and administers Qfm94.3 within Ley 7/2010 - Artículo 32.
©2014 FLN
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27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Other islands La Gomera Only a 45 minute ferry ride from the port of Los Cristianos, La Gomera is a small, peaceful island with amazing hiking and a pre-historic rainforest which is a UNESCO world heritage site and the only one of its kind left in the world. The ferry will take you to the capital, San Sebastián, famous for being Christopher Columbus’ last stop before crossing the Atlantic on his voyage of discovery. Valle Gran Rey, in the southwest of the island, and Playa
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is Fuencaliente: the place to go in La Palma to see a real volcanic landscape. The western side of this borough has nice beaches and withstood the many volcanic eruptions the island has suffered, the most recent being the Teneguía volcano in1971. La Palma has a lovely variant of Carnival called Los Indianos, where everyone dresses in white and people take to the streets during the day to cover everything, including each other, in talcum powder.
like parts of North Africa than it does the other islands. The interior is mainly empty, with a few sun bleached villages and a surprising amount of goats, but the coast has some lovely towns and villages and kilometres of white sand beaches ideal for sunbathing and surfing. The capital is Puerto del Rosario, a relatively modern port town, rather sleepy and quiet despite the fact that nearly half of the island’s population live there. The two main tourist towns are at opposite ends of the island; Corralejo in the north and Morro Jable in the south.
Gran Canaria Las Canteras beach, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
green and rugged, with breathtaking sights and one of the best places in the world for star gazing, hence the location of the world’s most important astrophysical observatories on its Roque de los Muchachos.
El Golfo, El Hierro
Santiago, in the south, are the main tourist towns. Valle Gran Rey is a beautiful valley with good beaches and great restaurants. The harbour still has a small fishing fleet. Garajonay National Park houses an ancient laurisilva (laurel) forest at its heart, with over 400 species of flora and fauna. The forest was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1987.
HOLIDAY GUIDE
El Hierro The smallest and westernmost of all the islands, El Hierro only has three municipalities; Valverde, Frontera and El Pinar. For exploring, it’s best to hire a car, and you can easily drive all over the island in a day. Valverde is a small town in the north, the only capital in the
Canaries not located on the coast. Frontera (El Golfo) is a milder, bigger town to the west, with more going on and better weather, and right down in the south is La Restinga, famous for its diving.
La Palma Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the pretty island), La Palma is
The capital, Las Palmas, is a much bigger city than Santa Cruz de Tenerife and has a nice historical quarter, a good night-life and Las Canteras - a long, yellow sand beach with areas for supervised swimming - and another beach for surfers of all levels. The main tourist areas are Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, with its beauti-
Lanzarote Lanzarote is known as the ‘Isla de los Volcanes’, with over 300 volcanic cones. Like Fuerteventura, it’s flatter than the other islands and there’s very little rain, even by Canarian standards. The whole island was
Los Indianos Carnival, La Palma
The capital, Santa Cruz, lies to the east of the island. It’s a pretty city of seafaring tradition, although Los Llanos de Aridane in the west is in fact the biggest city on La Palma. The towns in the north of La Palma are also very beautiful and in the south of the island
ful sand-dunes and all-night bars and clubs. The island also has some spectacular archaeological sites.
Fuerteventura Flat, arid and sparsely populated, this island looks more
declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, and those who take the time to explore the island will find it’s strangely beautiful. The capital is Arrecife, to the east, and the three main tourist resorts are Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.
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HOLIDAY GUIDE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
General information for visitors
Useful contacts Tenerife Santa Cruz Tourist Office, Plaza de España Tel: (0034) 922 281 287/922 289 287 Open Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sat, Sun: 9.30am-1.30pm
Time zone: The time zone in the Canary Islands is the same as in the UK and Ireland. Foreign exchange The Spanish currency is the Euro. You can change currency in any bank by showing your passport (Mon – Fri, 8am – 2pm), or in the many exchange agencies in resorts. Can I drink the water? You can drink the tap water in the Canaries, but the change may affect your stomach. If your visit is short, it’s perhaps best to stick to bottled. Discounts Students and senior citizens may receive discounts on ferries, tickets to concerts, museums, etc., so always ask, as long as you can provide ID to prove it. Shopping Normal opening hours in the Canaries are from 10am to 1.30pm and 5pm to 8.30pm. However, in big tourist resorts and shopping centres the opening hours are longer, often from 10am until 10pm, sometimes even later. On Sundays and Bank Holidays only the shops in tourist resorts open. There is a flea market in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, every Sunday morning Duty Free Despite popular belief, it is generally cheaper to buy alcohol and tobacco on the Islands than on the plane or at the airport. Limits are: 200 cigarettes/50 cigars/ 250grs rolling tobacco 1L spirits over 22% or 2L spirits under 22% 2L wine 60ml perfume, 250 ml eau de toilette Medical care All residents of the EU have the right to free medical and hospital care from Tenerife’s Public Health Service whilst on holiday (ie less than three months). To receive this you need to have the European Medical Card or equivalent document, which can be applied for in your home country. It doesn’t cover all treatments; excluding dental treatment, except for emergency extractions, and repatriation due to illness.
Plaza del Duque, Adeje
If you are ill, find a Centro de Salud or Centro Médico. The ones in the tourist resorts generally speak some English. Make sure they provide care under your insurance policy or EHIC before you sign for anything. Unscrupulous taxi drivers have been known to take back-handers for taking sick people to private clinics so make sure you are in the right place before paying. Safety Only take out credit and bank cards you actually need: leave the rest in the hotel safe, along with your passport and other valuables. A UK driving licence with a photograph is usually accepted as ID for most credit card purchases, a photo credit card will still have to be accompanied by photo ID, daft, but there you are. Do not leave belongings unattended. Particular vigilance on the beach and when you are travelling with luggage is recommended. Take the minimum with you on excursions and lock everything in the boot that you aren’t carrying with you and only access it where you are not overlooked. Do not leave anything in sight. Cars have been broken into for a beach towel before now. If you are at a bar or nightclub, don’t leave your drink unattended and avoid dark streets on the way home. The Islands are safer than many places in Europe, but there are always those who prey on the unaware: relaxing your vigilance could cost you dearly, not just in money but in precious holiday time - reporting the loss of a passport to the police for example and then the visits necessary to the consulates to replace it.
Emergency number: (all Canaries) 112 Guardia Civil (all Canaries): 062
Post Offices Open Monday to Saturday, generally 8.30am - 2.30pm. Some city offices open later.
Blue Badge users Parking for Blue Badge holders in the Canaries is limited to the ‘disabled only’ (Minusválidos) parking spaces in each town. There are no concessions to park on yellow lines or anywhere else normal parking is not allowed. And even if you have a Blue Badge, don’t park in a disabled area which has a registration number marked on it – you will be fined and probably towed away. For further information: www.bluebadgetenerife.com
Consulates British Consulate Tenerife: (0034) 922 286 653 British Consulate Gran Canaria: (0034) 902 109 356 Honorary British consulate Lanzarote: (0034) 928 262 508 Indian consulate: (0034) 922 241 416 Irish Consulate: (0034) 922 245 671 Consulates can issue passports, give information about medical care, education and
legal matters, give assistance to people under arrest, under exceptional circumstances give you enough funds to be repatriated (on loan), and help you in the case of emergency/catastrophe. Inter island transport: Fred Olsen (Ferries): 902 100 107 www.fredolsen.es Naviera Armas (Ferries): 902 456 500 www.navieraarmas. com Binter (Flights) 902 391 392 www.bintercanarias.com Canary Fly: 902 808 065 Airport and flight Information: All Canarian airports are controlled by AENA. www.aenaaeropuertos.es Buses The transport company TITSA has buses that reach all corners of the island. The main bus station is in Santa Cruz, near the Adán Martín Auditorium. Clients can choose to purchase a ticket on the bus for each individual journey or to buy a Bono-bus ticket, a card which can be shared by various people and will mean saving up to 50 per cent of the fare, depending on the route. They are on sale in any of the TITSA bus stations and also in a number of kiosks and small establishments (often newsagents), identified with a green sticker on the window. If your Bono-bus has insufficient credit to purchase your last journey, the difference can be made up in cash on the bus, but not with another Bono-bus card. For information you can call TITSA on: (0034) 922 531 130 or see: www.titsa.com
Taxis Tenerife taxis are white and, unless they are minivans, the maximum number of passengers is four, including children. Eurotaxis have ramps for wheelchairs. Eurotaxis, Santa Cruz: (0034) 609 867 581/607 612 816/629 132 269 Taxi Santa Cruz: (0034) 937 780 030 www. teletaxi.es Radiotaxi San Pedro: (0034) 922 310 000 Parque Marítimo César Manrique (next to the Auditorium) Open every day: Sun-Thurs: 10am-8pm, Fri, Sat: 10amMidnight Adults: €2.50, Children (under 12): €1.50, Over 65s: €1.50 Tel: (0034) 922 229 368 https://es-es.facebook.com/ parque.manrique Palmetum Open Tues – Sun, 11am - 2pm, 4pm-6pm. Adults: €4, Children (under 12): €2.80, Canarian residents €1/1.50 Tel: (0034) 697 651 127. info@palmetumsantacruz. com Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (Nature and Man) Open Tues – Sat, 9am - 8pm; Sun, Mon, 10am - 5pm. Tel: (00 34) 922 535 816 www.museosdetenerife.org Museo Militar (Military Museum), C/ San Isidro. Tel: (0034) 922 274 224. Open: Mon-Fri 10am-2pm, ecocmar@et.mde.es Castillo de San Cristobal, Plaza de España Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm http://www.museosdetenerife. org Auditorio Adán Martín Tel: (0034) 922 568 600 www.auditoriodetenerife.com Teatro Guimerá, Plaza Isla de la Madera. Tel: (0034) 922 609 408/922 609 400 www.teatroguimera.es
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ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
La Laguna Tourist Office, Casa Alvaro Bracamonde, C/ La Carrera. Tel: (0034) 922 631 194/922 601 106. The tourist office offers a free guided route around the city. Call to make a reservation.
Tenerife South Playa de Las Américas Tourist Office Plaza del Centro Comercial City Centre, Avda. Rafael Puig, 19. Tel: (0034) 922 797 668
Museo de Historia y Antropología de Tenerife, Casa Lercaro, C/ San Agustín. Open Tues - Sat: 9am-8pm; Sun, Mon, Bank holidays: 10am 5pm. www.museosdetenerife.org.
Oficinas de Turismo: Avda. Juan Carlos I (Bus station) Tel: (0034) 922 730 133 Paseo Marítimo Playa de Las Vistas Tel: (0034) 922 787 011
Taxis: (0034) 922 715 407
HOLIDAY GUIDE Twin Tickets can be purchased for Siam Park and Loro Parque. www.siampark.net Lost Property Offices Tenerife North Airport: (0034) 922 635 855 Tenerife South Airport: (0034) 922 759 391 Arona: (0034) 922 725 562 Costa Adeje: (0034) 922 710 606 La Laguna: (0034) 922 608 805/922 251 080 Puerto de la Cruz: (0034) 922 378 448
Evangelical Service Centro Apolo, 1ª planta, Los Cristianos, Arona. Tel: (0034) 922 792 007 Services: Sundays at 11am and 6pm Swedish Church Abroad Coronel, s/n, Los Cristianos, Arona. Tel: (0034) 922 75 00 68
Radiotaxi La Laguna (0034) 922 255 555. Puerto de la Cruz Tourist Office, Casa de la Aduana, C/ Las Lonjas. Tel: (0034) 922 386 000. Centro de Información Turística, C/ Puerto Viejo. Tel: (0034) 922 370 243/922 388 777. Taxis: (0034) 922 378 999. Loro Parque, Avda. Loro Parque s/n Tel: (0034) 922 373 841 Open every day from 8.30am to 6.45pm www.loroparque.com
Taxis: (0034) 922 747 511 Tourist Office Costa Adeje Avda. Litoral Playa Fañabé Tel: (0034) 922 716 539 Jungle Park: Urb. Las Águilas del Teide, s/n Tel: (0034) 922 729 806. www.aguilasjunglepark.com. Aqualand Avda. Austria, 15 Tel: (0034) 922 715 266. www.aqualand.es Twin tickets can be purchased for Aqualand and Jungle Park, see websites. Siam Park (The Water Kingdom) Avda. Siam Park s/n. Tel: (0034) 822 070 000.
Santa Cruz: (0034) 922 606 354 Religious Services In Spain, Catholicism is the main religion and almost all towns and cities, including tourist resorts, have churches where mass is frequently held. Below is information about Catholic services held in languages other than Spanish and services for other faiths. Holy Communion Anglican Church, Iglesia de San Eugenio, Las Américas. Tel: (0034) 922 793 143 Services: Sundays at 10.15am Anglican church, Puerto de la Cruz www.allsaintstenerife.com/
San Sebastián Tourist Office C/ Real, 4. www.sansebastiandelagomera. org/turismo/ Taxis: (0034) 922 870 524
Tourism Board C/ Triana, Las Palmas. Tel: (0034) 928 219 600. www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo.
Valle Gran Rey Tourist Office C/ La Noria, 2, La Playa. Tel: (0034) 922 805 458 www.lagomera.travel/islascanarias/la-gomera/es/acerca/ visitar-valle-gran-rey/
Las Dunas Tourist Office Avda. De Tirajana (Hotel Riu Maspalomas), Playa del Inglés. Tel: (0034) 928 765 242.
Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, Avda. Los Menceyes. Tel: (0034) 922 315 265. Open: Tues-Sat: 9am-8.pm. Sun, Mon, Bank holidays: 10am - 5pm. www.museosdetenerife.org.
La Gomera
Gran Canaria
Las Canteras Tourist Office Paseo de la Playa de Las Canteras (opposite the Hotel Meliá) Tel: (0034) 928 446 824. www.lpavisit.com.
La Laguna
Teguise Tourist Office Plaza de La Constitución, s/n Tel (0034) 928 845 398 www.turismoteguise.com
Island Tourist Board Avda. España (Yumbo shopping centre), Playa del Inglés. Tel: (0034) 928 771 550. www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo. El Portón Tourist Office El Portón Shopping Centre, Playa del Inglés. www.turismo.maspalomas. com.
Lanzarote
Taxis Valley Gran Rey: (0034) 922 805 058
Costa Teguise Tourist Office Avda. Islas Canarias s/n Tel: (0034) 928 592 542 www.turismoteguise.com
La Palma La Palma Tourist Office Avda. Blas Pérez González s/n Tel: (0034) 922 412 106 www.visitlapalma.es Taxis: Radiotaxis La Palma: (0034) 922 181 396 www.taxilapalma.com: 686 553868 Radiotaxi San Miguel: (0034) 922 416 070 Los Llanos de Aridane Tourist Offices: Avda. Dr. Flemming, s/n Tel: (0034) 922 402 583 / (0034) 922 402 528 www.lapalmacit.com Llano de Argual, 31 (also handicraft shop) Tel: (0034) 922 401 899
Playa Santiago Tourist Office Avda. Marítima, s/n. Tel: (0034) 922 895 650 playasantiago@lagomera. travel
Taxi rank: (0034) 922 462 001 www.taxilapalma.com / (0034) 686 553 868
Taxis: (0034) 922 895 698
Puerto Naos Tourist Office Puerto Naos car park Tel: 618 856 516
Fuerteventura Puerto del Rosario Tourist Office Avda. De la Constitución, 5 Tel: (0034) 928 530 844 Taxis: (0034) 928 850 059 / 928 850 216 Corralejo Tourist Office Plaza Grande de Corralejo Tel. (0034) 928 866 235 Taxis: (0034) 928 866 108
Arrecife Tourist Office Parque José Ramírez Cerdá s/n Tel: (0034) 928 813 174 www.turismolanzarote.com
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Morro Jable Tourist Office Avda. Saladar, Jandía shopping centre Tel: (0034) 928 540 776 turismo@playasdejandia.com Taxis: (0034) 928 541 257
Fuencaliente Tourist Office Plaza Minerva, s/n (Minerva Square) Tel: (0034) 922 444 003 Taxis: (0034) 922 434 071 www.taxilapalma.es Caldera de Taburiente National Park www.visitlapalma.es/recursos/recurso-parque-nacionalde-la-caldera-de-taburiente / www.reddeparquesnacionales. mma.es Theme Parks Maro Parque, Breña Alta. Tel:(0034) 922 417 782. www.maroparque.com Palmex Cactus, El Paso Tel: (0034) 922 464 862 Paraíso de las Aves, El Paso Tel: (0034) 922 485 701 All information was correct at the time of going to press. Please confirm before travelling.
Lago Martiánez Avda. De Cristóbal Colón, 1 Tel: (0034) 922 385 955 Taxis: Servitaxi (0034) 922 378 999 La Orotava Tourist Office C/ Calvario, 4 Tel: (0034) 922 323 041
n American Diner style cafe n Homemade burgers 100% beef n Homemade cakes n Best coffees in the area n Exquisite cocktails n Vegetarian menu Calle Luis Alvarez Cruz 5 (opposite Correos) Las Galletas · Tel: 922 731 847
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
Claudia and Beselch
The show, Mujeres: de la Voz al Mundo (Women: From the Voice to the World) is coming to Santa Cruz on September 20. The performance is based on the role played by women in the history of music as a reflection of social and cultural realities across the five continents, and the fascinating programme is the brainchild of a soloist from El Hierro, Claudia Álamo, and one of Tenerife’s top timple players, Beselch Rodríguez. During the show, you can hear songs which range from the traditional to the most contemporary soul, for which Beselch Rodríguez not only plays timple, but also an electric version of the instrument which he made himself. Claudia Álamo states that she will perform a selection of songs which have left such a mark that they’ve almost been turned into hymns. Claudia and Beselch will, as always, be accompanied by Fede Buster on drums, Carlos Perdomo on double bass and electric bass, Jeremías Martín on keyboards and Álvaro Jiménez on electric guitar. Claudia is well known for her fusion of Canarian folklore with other styles, and has already worked with Beselch, appearing on his second album, and they also coincided at the Bimbache Open Art Festival in El Hierro. Her individual sound
Granadilla council
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Women’s voices of the world
Heavy sounds
Thrashing it out Heavy metal fans are in for a treat in La Laguna on September 25. The final of that category in the LALAcore 015 talent contest will take place in the Plaza del Cristo in the centre of the town, no doubt making the wonderful traditional architecture of the area positively ring to the sound of live music. All you have to do is turn up around 8.30pm to enjoy the free concert and lend your support to some very capable and innovative bands. See: www.lalacore.com to keep up to date with the contest. n
Southwest fun
A crafty history
Photo: Beselch Rodriguez
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The 34th Guía de Isora annual craft fair will take place on September 13. A range of handmade goodies will be on offer, including superb reproductions of traditional crafts such as pottery and hat and basket weaving, as well as individually made cards, jewellery, soaps, and chocolates. There is also a broad range of leather work, ornaments and mirrors, as well as plenty of cut flowers and pot plants. And last, but not least, a delicious array of local cakes, breads and sweets that are not to be missed. The fair will take place around the main square and be open to the public between 10am and 6pm. See: www. n guiadeisora.org.
Claudia and Beselch complement each other in the show
incorporates pop-rock, blues and bossa nova amongst others, and she has collaborated with respected musicians such as Benito Cabrera, Domingo Rodríguez, and Tenerife saxophonist Kike Perdomo. She has also appeared on the same stage as many well known singers and groups, including David de María, Macaco, Arístides Moreno, Celtas Cortos and Leiva. She’s currently working
on her own musical project, Goodbye Monroe, which she is combining with her teaching profession. Beselch Rodríguez has become one of the biggest new generation representatives of Canarian timple players, and has also fused many styles and used new processes to bring the roots of Canarian folklore closer to the public, with a contemporary touch. To date, he
has released two albums: Indiferente in 2009 and Hábitat in 2012. He has also promoted other musical projects such as TimpleLand, based on the soundtracks from Disney movies. This not-to-be-missed show will be at the Tenerife Adán Martín Auditorium on September 20 at 8pm. Tickets cost a very humble €5 to €10. See www. auditoriodetenerife.com. n
Loro Parque trip Photo: leonardobc
As part of Granadilla de Abona’s activities for children and families programme, a trip to Loro Parque is planned for October 4. Be thrilled by the aquatic shows, see gorillas, dolphins, penguins and much, much more - all for a bargain price. There is €3 subscription to pay on registering, plus an entrance fee on the day of €13 for the
over 12s and €9 for three- to 11-year-olds. You have until September 30 to register and can do so by emailing: juventud@ granadilladeabona.org or participacionciudadana@granadilladeabona.org or by calling: 922 759 959. Alternatively, see: www. granadilladeabona.org. n There’s lots to see at Loro Parque including the beautiful macaws
Dog Days in The Fortunate Islands A new life in hidden Tenerife By John Searancke
A series of adventures that you won’t want to miss! On the brink of
Youth competition
Streets of talent Young artists have until September 11 to design a winning poster for La Orotava’s Street Art event which will take place on October 25. Anyone aged between 14 and 35 years old can take part in the competition and each participant can enter up to two original works, in digital format, which must each include the council’s logo. The prize for the winner is €200 plus the joy of seeing their work reproduced. Read more about the Arte Joven en la Calle CreArte competition and later event at: www.laorotava.es or email: juventud@villadelaorotava.org for detailed information n on how to enter or take part.
On sale in good Canary Island bookshops NOW! Available on all Amazon platforms
retirement, John and his wife Sally, together with their beloved Jack Russell/Staffie cross, Freddie, embark on the journey of a lifetime and relocate to the island of Tenerife. www.johnsearancke.com
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Live music
Perceptive fun Canarian band OnoFreeFadar will play in La Laguna on September 17. Offering a cheeky mix of rhythms and styles, this a band for true music lovers. Formed in 2006, OnoFreeFadar is made up of a group of seven restless and imaginative musicians who just love to push music to the limits. To a background of fun and funky sounds, fresh and powerful lyrics explore the absurd and hilarious, with an undercurrent of social severity. See them at the Teatro Leal for an evening of upbeat entertainment. Entrance costs just €5 and the concert starts at 9pm. See: www.teatroleal.com for tickets and information. n
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Educational fun
CantaJuego 10
Children’s activities
Play and learn
CantaJuego is an educational musical in audio visual format, developed by specialists in psychomotor stimulation and educational psychology. It’s aimed at children aged up to six-years-old and uses music and movement to set their imagination and fantasies in motion, strengthening social relationships. To sing and play in an enjoyable and visually impacting manner allows the children to develop their rhythmic sense,
Lend a helping hand A tasty way to meet those who help out the local community in southwest Tenerife is coming up on September 7. All you have to do is join the Santiago del Teide Lions Club at the Santiago Sporting Centre for a slap-up BBQ, which will be accompanied with musical entertainment by talented pianist Julia. The fun starts at 4.30pm and tickets, costing just €8.50, are available from the venue, the Lions Store, or
voice, movement, gestures and bodily expression techniques, increasing their self confidence and personal wellbeing. Interpreted by the group EnCanto, CantaJuego is an opportunity for adults to get closer to their children, to laugh, and to enjoy delightful children’s songs alongside the personalities who live in the world of fantasy and games. The first volume of CantaJuego was launched in 2004 by the directors of DiverMusic as
DVDs and CDs with popular children’s musical compositions. It became well known in educational circles, including nursery schools, and thanks to its success in that area, the project moved forward. In a short space of time, it became accepted widely and Sony Music joined the project, adding all their experience and enthusiasm, to turn CantaJuego into the children’s phenomenon we see today. There are now 18 DVDs and
CDs available on the market, over a million and a half copies have been sold, it has over 40 platinum discs and one gold disc, and the show has been seen by over 950,000 spectators in over 500 shows since 2007. CantaJuego 10 will be at the Tenerife Auditorium Adán Martín in Santa Cruz on September 20 at 12 noon and 5pm. Tickets cost €24 and €25, with discounts available. See www. n auditoriodetenerife.es.
BBQ and chill out from Steve in Las Rosas and El Marques Resales, both of the latter being in Puerto Santiago. If you don’t fancy the Barbie, you can just pop along for a drink and a chat. This isn’t a fund raising event – just a great opportunity to get to know the members and volunteers, find out about the work they do, and perhaps discover how you can also supn port those in need.
Photo: Nizar Mabroukeh FreeImages.com
There’s still plenty of fun going on for kids in the San Miguel area of south Tenerife. No matter where you are in the borough, there are at least two evenings a week full of games for the younger members of the family right up until September 20. All of the following take place in each area’s cultural centre unless otherwise stated. On Mondays and Wednesdays in El Roque, the activities are between 5pm and 7pm. In Aldea Blanca it’s the same days of the week but between 6pm and 9pm, and in Llano del Camello between 5pm and 7pm. The Guargacho, Las Chafiras and Las Zocas areas get the kiddie’s action on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 6pm and 9pm, and those actually in the town of San Miguel should make their way to the Plaza de la Iglesia on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. El Frontón will also hold its activities on the same days and times as San Miguel, and if you are quick you’ll just make it down to the town’s plaza on August 28 for the Open air cinema programme which will start at 9pm. See: www.sanmigueldeabona.es for more informan tion or call: 922 700 000, ext. 205.
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HOLIDAY GUIDE WHATS ON 2015
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
August – September
August – September
TENERIFE
GRAN CANARIA
DIARY DATES
DIARY DATES August 28
September 5
August 27 10pm: Enplazate, Free open-air concert, Plaza de Los Remedios, Buenavista del Norte. Local folk group Tasaigo offer a Canarian and Spanish repertoire.
August 28 9am – 1.30pm: Swim across Arinaga bay, registration closes September 1 or when the places are filled, Arinaga, Agüimes. www.travesiaplayadearinaga.com. 10pm: Street party with Orquesta Sin Ley, Megadisco El Pino and DJ Promomaster, Free Entry, Plaza de Sintes, Teror.
September 6 All day: Deep sea fishing competition, Pasito Blanco sports marina, San Bartolomé de Tirajana. www.pasitoblanco.com. 9pm: Brasileando, tribute to the music of Brazil from the 1940s to today, €10, Expo Meloneras, San Bartolomé de Tirajana. www.expomeloneras.com. 9pm: Official opening of the patron saint of the island’s fiestas, concerts by the local band and Los Chiringuitos (rock of the 80s and 90s). Free entry, Alameda Pio XII, Teror.
August 29
9pm: Folklore concert with some excellent groups from all over the Canaries. Free entry, Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pino, Teror.
September 7 12pm: Church service followed by a romería through the town, decorated carts, regional costumes, music, dancing and a lot of fun, Gran Canaria’s big day, not to be missed, Teror. 9pm: Street party with DJ Promaster, Carácter Latihno and Güira Latina, Free entry, Plaza de Sintes, Teror.
All day: Deep sea fishing competition, Pasito Blanco sports marina, see above. 6.30pm: Parade through the main streets, island celebrations, free open air concerts throughout the town by different bands, something to suit everybody, Teror.
September 8
August 30
6pm: Children’s fun science workshops, Alameda Pio XII, Teror. 9pm: Perinké Big Band, rock and swing concert, Free entry, Plaza de Sintes, Teror.
All day: Entertainment for all ages, theatre, dance, agricultural fair, Teror.
August 31
1am: Fireworks, Terrenos de la Capellanía, Teror.
September 9
EXHIBITIONS
9am: Yoga on the beach, CC Anexo II, Playa del Inglés, San Bartolomé de Tirajana. 6pm: Children’s workshops, Alameda Pio XII, Teror.
Until August 30
September 1 1pm: Foam party for children, Free entry, Plaza de Sintes, Teror. 6pm: Bouncy castles, Plaza de Sintes, Teror.
Hike through the Siete Cañadas in Teide National Park and overnight camping organised by the youth department of Granadilla council, registration and information 666 545 499. 7pm: The Magic Wand, children’s show. Free entry, church square, Los Abrigos. 9pm: Luces y Sombras (Lights and shadows) show by Eladio Pérez. Free entry, main square, El Médano. 9.30pm: Mexican music, DJ Kali, main patio. Free entry, Museum of Nature and Mankind, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. www.museosdetenerife. org. 10.30pm: Tom Jones, concert, €65 (advance payment price) Recinto Ferial de Tenerife, Santa Cruz. www.entradas.muchoviaje.com.
August 29 3pm: Cestas y Bollos, colourful and strikingly unusual procession to honour Santa Barbara, music, regional costumes, Santa Bárbara, Icod de los Vinos. 5pm: Romería de San Agustín, decorated carts, folklore, dancing, music, Arafo. 9pm: Neo tour concert, music and dancing, entertainment for all ages. Free entry, main square, El Médano.
August 30 5pm: Setting up of the Corazones de Tejina and a street party, singular local fiesta, well worth a visit, Tejina, La Laguna. www.corazonesdetejina.com. 6pm: Francisco Yanes, folk music, timple. Free entry, main square, Buenavista del Norte.
August 31 All day: Feast days of the patron saints of Arafo, El Tanque and Vilaflor, local celebrations, banks and some businesses may be closed in those specific areas and through traffic may be affected by processions. 10am onwards: Taking down the Corazones de Tejina. See above.
September 2 7pm: Children’s Cinema, Teatro Municipal (in Spanish), Buenavista del Norte, Price €1. 9pm – 10.15pm: Acoustic Session at The Top, Hard Rock Café, Pirámide de Arona, Las Américas. Free entry.
September 2 6pm: Juan Salvador, magic show, Free Entry, Alameda Pio XII, Teror.
September 3
September 3 6pm: Free children’s workshops, learn juggling, balancing, drumming, Plaza de Sintes, Teror.
September 4 10pm: (approximately) pop concert from Escuela de Calor and Línea DJ, Free Entry, Alameda Pio XII, Teror.
Luján Pérez (sculpture, paintings, works in silver) the man and his work, 200 years later. Related works of the artist and his pupils including Juan de Miranda, San Martín Centro de Cultura Contemporánea, C/Ramón y Cajal, 1. Vegueta, LPGC, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 9pm and Sunday 10am – 2pm. www.sanmartincontemporaneo.com.
10pm: Enplazate, Free open-air concert, Plaza de Los Remedios, Buenavista del Norte. Local folk group Bolico offering a Canarian and Spanish repertoire.
September 4 9am: Hermano Pedro hike from the main square at El Médano to the area where the shepherds
stopped to water their flock, music, theatre, exhibition, you will need food and water, more information and registration at the offices of the SAC, Granadilla de Abona or on 922 759 900. 9am: Fería de Pinolere, one of the biggest and best craft fairs in the Canaries, folklore, music, dancing, tasting, workshops, exhibitions and stalls, off the main road from La Orotava to Teide, extra buses run all day from La Orotava bus station. 9.30pm: Esther Ovejero, talented Tenerife singer, main patio. Free entry, Museum of Nature and Mankind, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. www.museosdetenerife.org.
September 5 9am: Fería de Pinolere, see above. 11pm - 3am: Break Free, Be Freddy! Hard Rock Café, Pirámide de Arona, Las Américas. Free entry.
September 6 9am: Fería de Pinolere, see above. 10am: Swim for Life fundraiser for breast cancer, Tenerife Top Training Centre, Adeje. www. migranodearena.org/es/reto/7326/nadar-porla-vida-2015/ 6pm: Nada en Los Bolsillos, Spanish pop Group. Free entry, main square, Buenavista del Norte.
September 7 All day: Bajada a El Socorro, procession of the local patron saint from Güímar to the beach at El Socorro, decorated carts, folklore music and dancing at what is allegedly the oldest ‘bajada’ in the Canaries. A local feast day so banks and some businesses may be closed. All day: Patron saint’s feast day in La Victoria de Acentejo, local celebrations, banks and some businesses may be closed.
September 8 All day: Nuestra Señora de la Luz, patron saint’s day in Los Silos, local celebrations and processions, banks and some businesses may be closed.
Until the end of December Creativity corner for 5 - 11 year olds, Mini Tea, Friday 4pm - 8pm, Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 8pm, TEA, Santa Cruz. www.tea. tenerife.es.
EXHIBITIONS Until September 20 El Silencio Interior (The silence inside), paintings and sculptures, selection of Canarian artists, Casa de Piedra, Garachico, Monday to Saturday, 11am – 4pm.
Until October 4 Museum exhibition – Guanche Women, the life and times of the aboriginal females of Tenerife, Museum of Nature and Man (MNH), Santa Cruz, Tuesdays to Saturdays, 9am - 8pm, Sundays, Mondays and bank holidays, 10am - 5pm. Free entry. www.museosdetenerife.org.
For regular church, charity and recreational events, please see: www.islandconnections.eu/1000003/1000027/0/41004/living-lifestyle-article.html
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
MUSIC
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
ASF15 dance party
Summer fun at the Arona Festival For the fifth consecutive year, the Arona Summer Festival (this year marketed as ASF15) took place at the Antonio Domínguez Olympic Stadium with a full line-up of topname DJs and music producers. The dance party of the year was enjoyed by thousands of revellers, with star names attached and tickets selling out even quicker than previous Arona Summer Festivals. The line-up included Dutch DJ and producer Nicky Romero, as well as Oliver Heldens, also from the Netherlands. Other star names on the main stage included: Rudimental DJ, Deorro, Pendulum, Dirty Audio, MC Gee, and Tenerife’s Leon Cormack and Archip Simmelink. Guy Gerber and Matthias Tanzmann were the headline acts on the underground stage. As with previous years, the festival was well organised and the stadium was well adapted, featuring a premium zone closest to the main stage, VIP sections and a summer area, which held most of the attendees and the smaller underground stage set. Here’s hoping next year’s ASF16 will continue to attract the dance scene’s biggest names and affirm the island’s position as host to one of Europe’s biggest and best sumn mer dance festivals.
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The Qfm Music Review – Your guide to music created in the Canary Islands
Red Stone Face blues ing energy and power in absolute unison. We’re looking forward to a full album from this excellent group. In the meantime, they will be performing at the Blues Night of Jazz Roja – The Red Mountain Jazz Festival, in El Médano, between November 7 and 15. Keep listening to Qfm 94.3 to hear tracks from Red Stone Face, and also to find out more about Jazz Roja. n
‘Da Blues’ is the core DNA of all modern western genres. R&B, hiphop, soul, jazz, funk, reggae and most of today’s pop music can all be traced back to blues, a style of music created by Afro-American slaves during the 1800s. Fast forward two centuries, and the genre is still very much alive and kicking, though it has evolved into several sub-genres such as blues-rock, electricblues or bluegrass (listen to Kike Hernández with his excel-
lent Blues del Sur programme on Qfm 94.3, Wednesday 5pm and Saturday 1pm, to learn more about this fascinating style of music). Fortunately for blues lovers on the island, there are more than a handful of excellent artists performing and recording here. Just a few weeks ago, we were thrilled to receive the debut album from one of these groups, Red Stone Face. Not quite an album, more of an EP, but each of the four tracks is
unique and composed by the band. The music of Red Stone Face is a skillful fusion of blues and rock, with consistent undertones of jazz present throughout each track. We’re talking 100 per cent instrumental here, with Juan José Díaz on guitar, Miguel Martín on bass and Umberto Lumini on drums. Within the first few seconds of listening, it is very evident that this group plays very tightly together, project-
Tracklist: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Silver River Snake Eyes Eternal Light Fruit Juice
30
SPOTLIGHT
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Spotlight on Sophie Dunér
Sophie Dunér in fine voice
Photo: Christopher Hästbacka
Performing at the Festival O/ Modernt in Stockholm
erence to her nickname), is currently being produced with an electric cellist, adopting a new musical direction to her trilogy of albums which began with The City of My Dreams in 2010.
Sophie perceives her music visually and her songs are strongly connected to her paintings. Her two artistic expressions have often complimented each other during her career; similar to her showcase in El Hierro, Sophie recently performed alongside her exhibited artwork at the Festival O/ Modernt in Stockholm and featured as a visual artist next to 13 other European painters in the book A Journey through the Senses by Christer Botéus. Raised in Gothenburg, Sophie began to learn the classical piano at the age of seven. She had already begun drawing and painting at an early age and was soon expressing herself through both mediums. After school she chose to continue studying music and moved to Boston in the USA to begin a four-year degree in performance at the Berklee College of Music, featuring in various prestigious groups such as Herb Pomeroy’s Big Band and Phil Wilson’s Rainbow Band. She stayed in America for a further year performing as a jazz singer before moving to Madrid where she spent seven years in the Spanish capital learning Latin and Flamenco influences. At this time she continued singing and composing songs, while featuring at jazz festivals and collaborating with renowned musicians. Sophie also studied vocal interpretation at the Stockhausen Courses in Germany two years in a row after a suggestion by the composer, Karlheinz Stockhausen. In 2008 she received
€5,000 from the Arts Council of Sweden and worked on
bold edge. It plays with vivid imagery which resolves into romantic harmony and incorporates influences from jazz, contemporary classical and world music. Her daring lyrics are an essential element, creating colours and rhythms that are reminiscent of the 1930s but within a contemporary arrangement, and her songs are strongly connected
Recording The City of My Soul in London
to her paintings: “Art gives me patterns and shapes which is excellent for composing. I may also start from a lyric or a melody, sometimes while seated at a piano, sometimes without it, and sometimes I am lucky to receive an idea from a mistake or a wrong note – the birth of the idea is always different.” Sophie’s career has included performances at the Scarlatti Swings / Festival O/Modernt, a six day event under the direction of British violinist Hugo Ticciati where her art was exhibited in relation to her performance. She recorded The Rain in Spain with the Sophie Dunér Quartet – an album of her own edgy material played with distinguished musicians
that included Rory Stuart, Matt Penmann and Kahlil Kwame Bell. Modern classical concerts have included tours in Spain, Holland, UK, Japan and Puerto Rico, under the direction of composers such as Manuel Ceide, Francis Schwartz and Henk Alkema. Upcoming CDs include a selection of jazz standards with the bassist Dominic Duval plus an album of new self-composed material with Jeremy Harman on cello (acoustic and electric). For further information on Sophie’s music visit her website: www.sophieduner.com, and to see more on her artwork go to: www.sophiedunerart. n com.
Sophie also exhibits her artwork
Photo: Ingvar Loco Nordin
Sophie Dunér is a singer, songwriter, composer, arranger and visual artist from Sweden. Sophie has lived and performed in the United States and Spain and recently featured at the Bimbache openART Festival in El Hierro where her artwork was exhibited for the festival’s ten day duration, and her audiovisual music concert closed the event. Originally a jazz singer, she has evolved her songwriting and composing into a unique fusion of jazz and classical influences, using a soaring vocal style that perfectly blends with a string quartet or solo instrumentalist. Her last album, 2013’s The City of My Soul, was recorded and produced in London by Grammy award-winning producer Michael Haas, and released by Big Round Records / PARMA recordings. Her follow-up release, due to come out next year and tentativelytitled The City of Dizzy (a ref-
Photo: Ingvar Loco Nordin
The three cities
her musical repertoire and art portfolio – one of four grants awarded to her projects. After recording The City of My Soul, she performed an audiovisual concert – incorporating both her music and paintings – at Festival de Música Contemporánea de La Plata in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in September 2011. In 2013 Sophie featured as a composer on the Londonbased project, Women of Note, led by violinist and orchestra leader Diana Ambache; and in August 2014, during a tour of the USA, she performed at the PARMA Music Festival in New Hampshire. Her music has been described as a blend of romance and spirituality combined with a
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
BLEVINS FRANKS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
31
Income Tax Reduced By Paul Montague, Partner, Blevins Franks
It is not too often that we receive good news about income tax, but the Spanish government has announced income tax cuts twice in one year now. This is a welcome development for taxpayers, and an encouraging sign of how the local economy is improving. The latest cuts were confirmed in the Spanish Official Gazette on July 11. They extend to both scale and savings income tax rates and are backdated to January 1, 2015, to apply to the whole fiscal year.
2015 income tax rates for Spanish tax residents Income tax rates in Spain are comprised of state rates and regional rates set by each Autonomous Community. Only the state portion has been reduced with the new law. The Autonomous Com-
munities are under no obligation to change their own rates, so it is likely that those established on January 1, 2015, will remain in place at the regional stage. For the state part of the progressive rates, the lowest tax rate for income up to €12,450 has reduced from 10 per cent to 9.5 per cent. The top rate of tax, for income over €60,000 is reduced from 23.5 per cent to 22.5 per cent. The regional rates are then added on top. So, in general, the total tax rates will range from 19.5 per cent to 46 per cent. They vary by region, and in the Islas Canarias go from 18 per cent to 46.5 per cent. For the fiscal year 2016, the combined rates will range, in general, from 19 per cent to 45 per cent. Again, local variations are likely.
Contact the tax specialists at Blevins Franks to find out how much tax you can save. We are highly experienced at advising British expatriates in Spain on tax efficient investments. www. blevinsfranks.com
“… the Spanish government has announced income tax cuts twice in one year now.”
dividends, capital gains on the sale or transfer of assets, income derived from life assurance contracts and purchased annuity income. For income up to €6,000 the rate reduced from 20 per cent to 19.5 per cent. For the €6,000 - €50,000 band it is now 21.5 2015 savings tax rates for per cent, while for income over Spanish tax residents €50,000 it reduced from 24 per cent to 23.5 per cent. There are ‘Savings income’ is taxed sep- no regional variations. arately from general income, While the new rates apply for and consists of interest income, the whole fiscal year 2015, the
Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice.
To keep in touch with the latest withholding tax rate deducted rate applied on savings income developments in the offshore by the bank is 19.5 per cent is cut from 20 per cent to 19.5 world, check out the latest news on our website from July 12. per cent. www.blevinsfranks.com Spanish non-residents While the tax cuts are obviously very welcome, if you Blevins Franks has 20 Non-residents who earn income have savings and investestablished offices across in Spain also benefit from the ments you still need profesSpain, France, Portugal, Cyprus, Malta and UK, new tax reform. sional advice to protect your and decades of experience For general income, the tax rate income and gains from tax, as advising British expatriates. charged on EU/EEA residents well as to ensure your portfoContact our Partner Paul reduces from 20 per cent to lio is suitable for you. With Montague on 922 716 19.5 per cent. For those resi- the right tax planning, Spain 079 or paul.montague@ dent outside Europe it remains can be very tax efficient for blevinsfranks.com at 24 per cent as before. The tax retired expatriates.
MOTORING
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Road etiquette
Speed need
Courtesy pays Photo: Vedrana Bosnjak at FreeImages.com
The 605PS S8 plus surges to 99.77 kph in just 3.8 seconds and can top out at 304 kph
You can avoid actions that might trigger conflict by being courteous yourself
and accept that there is probably little you could have done to prevent the delay. Always leave a safe stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front, giving yourself time and space to react to the mistakes of others. Recognise the warning signs of oncoming stress and develop positive strategies to cope with it: If neces-
sary, stop the car and take a short break. Be tolerant of other road users, and errors they may make – chances are that you also make mistakes at times. You can also try to set an example by not pushing into traffic queues, hogging the middle lane on a motorway, and by giving way at busy junc-
tions. And do not compete or retaliate: if someone’s driving annoys you, there’s little point trying to ‘educate’ them. You can also take a look at www. campaignforcourtesy.org.uk. The Campaign for Courtesy is a registered charity that aims to restore decency and good manners to all aspects of society including n behaviour on the roads.
On your marks
Back in print!
Rally sprint
Call us!
1 Driver or 2 Drivers, Baby Seats or Booster, Free Airport Service & Hotel Delivery Full insurance · All Inclusive No Hidden Extras · Short or long term Ask for details Call Stuart on 922 79 08 25 or 662 566 630 Or send us email: autosamericas@web.de
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E D IN T E
CIF: B 38.39 39 14 C/ Luciano Bello Alfonso Polígono Industrial Las Chafiras
and three wheels, which makes for a thoroughly interesting and captivating read. Off-Road Giants by Andrew Westlake is an affectionate and warm insight to a truly great era of motorcycle sport and provides profiles of 17 famous riders from the 1960s - not to mention a host of shots by leading sports photographer Gordon Francis and 126 evocative period photos. See sample pages and text at: http://www.veloce.co.uk. n
SH
RENT A CAR LAS AMERICAS S.L.
blers like the Sharp brothers, Badger Goss and Ivor England, trials riders Gordon Jackson, Max King and the Kendalls, and great all-rounders like Ken Heanes, Johnny Giles and the American Bud Ekins. But not only does the story highlight the stars, but also the main British manufacturers of the time like BSA, Triumph, James, Greeves, Metisse, Cheney and Wasp. However, the book isn’t just about bikes – it’s about the people and their stories from illustrious and successful careers on two
5 YE AR
The book is a trip down memory lane as the author recalls boyhood journeys in his big brother’s ex-GPO van to watch the stars in action. The riders of the day he saw include some of the world’s best such as scram-
The 10th Atogo Mini Rally Sprint will take place in the south of Tenerife on September 19. This great little rally was suspended for 24 years before it was finally reinstated in 2013. Since then it has proven a popular race: Winners’ points are accruable towards the Campeonato Interinsular de Tenerife, and the Atogo area, up in the hills above the South Tenerife airport, provides some great roads for rallying. First position last year went to Yeray Lemes and copilot Mahy García in a Porsche 911 997 GT3; second place was taken by Roberto Negrín and Yannick Rivero in a Mitsubishi Evo VIII; and close behind them were Víctor Delgado and Ignacio Eguren in a Mitsubishi Evo IX N+. As ever, there will be six runs for each competitor – three north to south and three in the opposite direction. The town of San Isidro will play host to the vehicles, which will be on show from the day before. The action will start on the day around 9am and continue until late in the evening, with a two-hour break during the afternoon. The event is organised by the Escudería Atogo association. Contact the president José Velázquez Padilla by emailing: velazquez@escuderia-atogo.com, or keep your eye on: n www.rallysprintatogo.com for updates.
R2
Heroes of 1960s Motorcycle Sport Unavailable since 2011, but now presented as a paperback reprint, Off-Road Giants! (Volume 1) is for all those who can recall watching motorcycle scrambles and trials during the 1960s.
Lovers of pure speed will appreciate the flagship Audi S8 plus sports saloon’s V8 TFSI engine boosted by 85PS and up to 750Nm of torque - which endows the car with a power output equivalent to almost seven A1 1.0 TFSI models! The 4.0 V8 TFSI engine produces 605 PS and up to 700Nm in normal operation – with an overboost function that increases the torque to 750Nm, the highest of any Audi on sale. All this translates to a vehicle which achieves 0 - 99.77 kph in just 3.8 seconds, making the S8 plus the fastest accelerating Audi S model in the range and the fastest S8 ever. The electronically limited 249.44 kph top speed can be derestricted to 304 kph, so the blistering performance more commonly associated with low-slung supercars can now be enjoyed in the new Audi S8 plus. n
RIFE FO
Road rage: sometimes the tiniest incident can lead to an exaggerated response from both drivers. Although you can do little to prevent others becoming stressed at the wheel, you can avoid actions that might trigger conflict by being courteous yourself. It costs nothing to be polite and, if you do make an error of judgement, a word of apology can usually defuse the situation and avoid confrontation. Likewise, a simple wave to say thank you for a courtesy extended will help to make the roads safer and more pleasant for everyone. A few tips for courtesy on the roads include the following. Vehicle breakdowns can be stressful for everyone concerned so ensure that your car is regularly serviced and well maintained. Once on the move, maintain concentration at all times and drive to the highest standards you are capable of. If you encounter a traffic hold-up, remain calm
Fastest ever Audi S8
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27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
BUSINESS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
33
Finding a job
Curriculum trends
Why use an Independent Adviser? Why would you use Sebastian & St James rather than go to your bank or building society, or even go direct to an insurance company yourself? There are a number of very good reasons, from customer service to impartial advice.
Relationship
An essential tool in the jobseeking landscape, your curriculum vitae says more about you than simply your personal history. A well-presented curriculum vitae is the difference between getting your foot in the door for that all-important first face-to-face interview and getting a polite brush off, or no response at all. Literally hundreds of CVs hit the desks of the human resources departments of the bigger employers every week. How do you make yours stand out, how do you grab their attention? Pablo Rodríguez Sierra, marketing and sales manager and author of style manuals like How to write a winning curriculum, provides some key points such as: be brief, give the relevant details and adapt each CV to the post for which you’re applying.
No mistakes and well organised Read and reread your CV several times before you send it. It should never have grammatical or spelling errors, that way leads straight to it being filed in the bin! The information provided should be clear and presented in a well-structured manner. Pablo reminds us that it’s useless providing an attention-grabbing CV which is missing important relevant details.
Brief but complete The length of your CV should be enough to get you past the first screening. This depends on your experience and education. It should be of no more than two pages and should include:
Double-check your CV for • Personal details: A recent photograph, name and mistakes before you send it surname(s), address, contact telephone number(s), email of the interview as far as you address, date and place of are concerned is to get you a birth and, although it isn’t job. You will only land yourself always necessary, your per- in hot water in the long run sonal status (married, sin- if you exaggerate your knowlgle, widowed etc). As those in edge or experience. charge of the selection process receive so many applica- Include a link to your tions and have no time to read Internet profile them all in detail, an effective ruse is to include a short These days, it’s essential to biography at the beginning to have a professional profile generate interest and encour- on the Internet. According age them to read on… to experts, 86 per cent of • Academic and professional human resources professiondetails: if you have an impres- als check online for a candisive professional profile, put date’s CV. This also makes that first. If it’s your first CV it very important to be careand you have little work expe- ful and aware of the conserience, put your academic quences of what you publish results first and follow that on social media sites. with your work details. You should include a section Is there an ideal CV to get on your professional objec- a job? tives, where you explain in a few words what your future Does the perfect format exist? vocational aims are, linguis- Video and graphic designed tic abilities etc. CVs are the current trend, but are they more effective or is it No blanket CVs better to go for simplicity? Since the aim of your CV is Each CV that you send out to get you an interview, if should be fine-tuned to the you can present it in a difpost you are applying for. ferent and more creative forThere should be a CV for mat it could be a great way each job. “Adapting it aug- of getting attention. However, ments the efficiency a lot” always accompany your more advises Pablo and he recom- artistic efforts with the appromends that you have several priate written CV. If the job different versions depending you are applying for is in on the type of job you are design, a media agency or a applying for and the type publicity department, a video and size of company. And, could help get you over that of course, the information it first important selection hurcontains should be 100 per dle, but if you decide to take cent relevant to the job you that path, sound and image are seeking. quality should be excellent, it should be concise and not Don’t lie! longer than one and a half minutes in length. The objective of a CV is to get Happy and successful job you an interview and the goal hunting! n
Sebastian & St James will spend time getting to know you and understand your requirements in order to build long term relationships.
Best Products Because Sebastian & St James spend time getting to know you they can recommend the best products for your circumstances, at the best rates.
Impartiality Sebastian & St James are independent; they can look at the whole of the market to iden-
tify the right investment product for you.
ommending one product over another.
Simplicity
Ongoing Service
Sebastian & St James will act as an intermediary between you and the product provider. They will make sure that you understand the choice available to you. They will explain what each product is and what it does, in simple terms.
Maybe the most important area of all for clients, Sebastian & St James are always available to speak to clients. You will deal with a named individual with email, telephone and often Skype contact details.
Professional Advice Once they have established what your needs are, and have researched the market, Sebastian & St James will provide you with a suitability letter. This letter will outline all the options available to you and the reason why they are rec-
They do not charge upfront fees Sebastian & St James put any costs to the client, clearly in writing, prior to agreeing any investment strategies. Sebastian & St James International Financial Advisors Limited: advice based on integrity, n trust and experience.
HEALTH
34
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
m_delaflor@hotmail.com
Dear Dr. De La Flor, I’m 39 and I have Irritable Bowel Syndrome. My father and another relative had colon polyps, should I be worried? Thanks, Walter Dear Walter, No, you should be attentive and proactive rather than overconcerned. Colon polyps are growths located in the large portion of the intestine (colon). We don’t know the cause of most polyps but, thank God, the majority are benign. For them to become malignant it normally takes a long time. They usually stay clinically ‘silent’ for a while: as a matter of fact they’re often found during routine screening tests. The chances of having colon polyps increase if you are over 50, if polyps run in your family, or if you have inherited a certain gene that causes you to develop them. Experts recommend that everyone aged 50 or older has a screening test to look for colon polyps. Finding and removing colon polyps can prevent colon cancer. Best regards. “Since I came to the White House, I got two hearing aids, a colon operation, skin cancer, a prostate operation, and I was shot. The damn thing is I’ve never felt better in my life.” Ronald Reagan
Dear Dr. De La Flor, I’ve been recommended by my therapist to do some writing. What’s your opinion? Any advice? Thanks, B. Dear B., Let your heart write your inner speech. Then, share it with your therapist as well as with someone that appreciates the gracefulness of your heart and the attractiveness of your soul. Best wishes. “I write to find strength. I write to become the person that hides inside me. I write to light the way through the
darkness for others. I write to be seen and heard. I write to be near those I love. I write by accident, promptings, purposefully and anywhere there is paper. I write because my heart speaks a different language that someone needs to hear. I write past the embarrassment of exposure. I write because I am nostalgic, romantic and demand happy endings. I write to remember. I write knowing conversations don’t always take place. I write because speaking can’t be reread. I write to sooth a mind that races. I write because you can play on the page like a child left alone in the sand. I write because my emotions belong to the moon; high tide, low tide. I write knowing I will fall on my words, but no one will say it was for very long. I write because I want to paint the world the way I see love should be. I write to provide a legacy. I write to make sense out of senselessness. I write knowing I will be killed by my own words, stabbed by critics, crucified by both misunderstanding and understanding. I write for the haters, the lovers, the lonely, the broken hearted and the dreamers. I write because one day someone will tell me that my emotions were not a waste of time. I write because God loves stories. I write because one day I will be gone, but what I believed and felt will live on.” Shannon Alder
Dr. De La Flor Facts
Thumbs Up By Dr. De La Flor
Spf (sun protection factor)
facts The SPF is an indication of how long it will take you to develop sunburn as compared to unprotected. So if it normally takes you 10 minutes to burn, an SPF of 30 will allow you to be out for 300 minutes before burning. Most people
Lisa B. Harris
Osteopath, Acupuncturist, Rehabilitation, Pain Management
• Natural solutions to a balanced and pain free life. • UK qualified and Registered, with many years experience treating a wide variety of patient conditions.
Tel. 660 437 747 - Comercial Domasa, next to Lidl, Adeje
will need to reapply sunscreen every two hours. Be safe… and please use the sun as an ally, not an enemy.
A prescription for a life-
time “To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.” Bertrand Russell.
Alcohol dependence (AD)
Up to 70 per cent of people with AD are depressed, but in the vast majority of them the depression improves very quickly after they stop/moderate drinking. Be patient. Avoid having recourse to antidepressants immediately: trust your willpower to get better!
A decent night’s sleep
It entails maintenance of sleep for six hours; less than 30 minutes to fall sleep; feeling refreshed on awakening and less than three awakenings per night. Beware of unrealistic expectations! Getting tired during the day is vital for a hearty rest. “Fatigue is the best pillow” Benjamin Franklin
A love affair will reduce type
2 diabetes (T2D) A love affair with legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas ...) in patients with T2D tends to lower blood sugar, blood pressure levels and weight! Legumes are rich in protein, fibre and have a healthy glycemic index. Let’s grocery-shop wisely!
Inconvenient truths
“We are so obsessed with doing that we have no time and no imagination left for being. As a result, men are valued not for what they are but for what they do or what they have for their usefulness.” Thomas Merton
50+: Live better, longer,
fuller We’ll never have more happiness than we have discipline. The two are directly related to one another. If we want to measure the level of happiness in
our life, we should measure the level of discipline. Discipline is the path to happiness, and empowering, demanding daily routines are like airport landing signs.
Coaching Corner By Dr. De La Flor Our actions, our words, and all your circumstances can, and should be, elevated to a higher level. When you and I perform our menial tasks at home, at work or while in leisure time, having a supernatural mentality, an above-the-ground outlook, a 3D vision of what we do, it’ll help bring our health scores and fitness levels to new heights. Whether we’re changing diapers, serving a meal, selling a property, treating with love a patient at the wards, trying to find a job, refurbishing an apartment, closing a sale, writing an article, or welcoming tourists at a reception, if performed with love and rectitude of intention they will transform them AND us. They’ll allow us to achieve deeper levels of emotional, physical and spiritual health.
before
after
30 MINUTES FOR A YOUNGER FACE!! OUR EXPERIENCE AT YOUR SERVICE The first centre for aesthetic surgery in the Canaries. 20 years of experience. ADVANCED TECHNIQUES 21st century Cosmetic Surgery as an out patient, no general anaesthetic, no prolonged post operative recovery or any other inconveniences. 30 MINUTES FOR A YOUNGER FACE Eliminating facial wrinkles - in just 30 minutes you will see the extraordinary results without any signs of treatment.
Come and see us and we will put your fears at rest. Completely free consultation with budget proposal. We speak:
International Aesthetic Centre Puerto de la Cruz
C/Virtud 3, 3°, Puerto de la Cruz, Tel/Fax: 922 386 430
Pedro Alegre Alonso Pilates trainer ä Physiotherapist ä
Tel. 699 521 649
pedroalegrealonso@hotmail.com
By Dr. De La Flor
God bless you, your family and your loved ones. Talk to you in a couple of weeks.
Dr. De La Flor, licensed G.P. (6089). In dealing with his patients he is highly influenced by Humanistic Psychology - an encompassing way of approaching patients through the study of their strengths and virtues to enable them to thrive and lead fulfilling lives, accept the past, find happiness in the present, and hope for the future. Call him today at 00 34 697 888 666 or email him to register.
Please make appointments over Salón de Belleza Sonja Cornelius. Carretera General (antigua) 99º Chayofa
Tel.: 922 386 430 / 922 729 527
ReSOLUTION For the next two weeks, let’s spend a few minutes pondering if we truly believe that what we do and the way we do it can truly making us better individuals. Little things, minutiae performed out of love, can emphatically magnify everything we do, everything we feel, everything we say, everything we touch, and everything we go through. “If we don’t live the way we believe, we eventually believe the way we live.” Fulton Sheen
TREATMENTS: Facial Wrinkles - Skin Blemishes Bags Under the Eyes - Mini Facelift Liposuction - Droopy Eyelids Peeling - Flaccid Neck - Scars Breast Implants - Varicose Veins
©2014 FLN
Dear Dr. De La Flor
Therapies, Spiritual hypnosis, Past life regression Come, unleash your internal power and heal your mind, body and soul completely through energy healing, hypnosis and past life regression. Get Space Clearing carried out for more positivity at home and in your work place
Call 619 519 858
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
FASHION SPECIAL
35
Beautiful views
The new autumn fashion
The international designers have presented their designs in Paris, Milan, London and New York. The conclusion? Fashion for the coming autumn/ winter is feminine, classy and irresistibly sexy. Every woman can find her own style reflected here.
Dress: Alexis Mabille
36
FASHION SPECIAL
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Atelier Versace Extravagant and very sexy. These are the guiding principles that Donatella Versace set for their latest collection. The opulent orchid prints were striking and flattering colours such as lavender, pink or bright turquoise were emphasised. A dreamy yet strong look.
Just Cavalli Romance meets Techno: The result is a collection that combines deliberately simple-cut designs with lavish materials like feathers or lace. Warm colours such as deep red or a dominant lead grey give the pieces a luxurious touch.
Christopher Kane Sensual seduction by skilful reduction back to the essentials. Varied dresses in slim silhouettes with clever emphasis on the waistline were only one of the priorities on the catwalk of the English designer. There were also fine details such as colourful gemstones.
Isabell de Hillerin The name of this fashion designer stands for clean elegance and timeless chic, without ever being boring. With her fashion show for autumn and winter, she showed how fanciful colours like black and grey can interact. True to the reduced-style stance, the models wore no accessories.
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
FASHION SPECIAL
Gucci A stylish combination of past and present. Pleated dresses, antique carpets, floral motifs, and transparent fabrics set in intentionally ‘staid’ sections, give a fashion image equally as modern as it is strikingly beautiful.
Louis Vuitton Chief designer Nicolas Ghesquière has designed the new collection in the form of a travel diary, whilst making his own personal mark using animal prints, duffle-style fluffy coats and short skirts with elements of the Kilt. Most striking accessory? The box-shape bag.
Burberry The Seventies are back - this is the motto of Christopher Bailey. The chief designer for the British label presented a collection in which patchwork, paisley and prints play a major role. Animal prints and camouflage were also included, making the pieces unique.
Viktor&Rolf Wearable art. The Dutch designer duo coined this motto on the catwalk. Some clothes were reminiscent of the works of Jackson Pollock, others the impression of an artfully distorted picture frame. A real eye-catcher was the trompe l’oeil technique, which gave some pieces threedimensionality.
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HEALTH
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Promotion
Take a few moments to prepare yourself by breathing properly
Photo: Tallia22 FreeImages.com
Photo: Lotus Head FreeImages.com
Don’t forget to always warm up and cool down when exercising
men with air. Close your eyes and lie on the floor if possible or sit, legs uncrossed, back straight, on a chair. Feel the air enter your body as you count to four in your head. Hold the air for a few seconds, and slowly exhale to the count of four. Repeat this 10 times.
Work that body! Squats No-one loves them, we know. But they really work. Things to
remember: feet hip-width apart and keep your back straight your abdomen, thighs and glutes need to do the work, not your back. Pull in your abs and stretch your arms out in front of you at shoulder level to keep your balance (rest your hands on a chair if it helps). Squat down carefully and engage your quads and glutes to slowly come back up, making sure you don’t lock your knees (they should always be slightly flexed). Picture the shape of
a typical dining chair as you continue; this is the shape to aim for with your body. Repeat 15 times. Push-Ups Choose from: Against a wall; on the floor with knees bent touching the floor; on the floor with legs straight; using just one arm at a time (for hard-core types); or using one arm while the other arm is taking a selfie and posting it to your Facebook page (for absolute legends). Keep hands shoulder width apart, fingers spread to distribute weight evenly, and careful not to twist your wrists at awkward angles. Make sure your head and neck remain in a line looking straight ahead of you. Repeat 10 times. Lunge o’Clock! Imagine the hands on a clock. Start with your left leg behind, right in front, bent at the knee. Lunge as if to 12, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 o’clock with the right leg in front then switch to the left in front to complete the clock. Keep your arms loosely by your side. Jumping Jacks/Star Jumps Get your heart pumping with 20 jumping jacks – no stopping
Photo: Tara Bartal FreeImages.com
Push ups can be done anywhere, anytime
Photo: Tallia22
Of all the excuses heard when it comes to reasons not to do exercise, by far the most common is “I don’t have time.” However, those very same people do, somehow, manage to spend two hours on Facebook/Twitter or any number of other tasks. But what if all you needed was to set aside just 15 minutes a day – 15 minutes in the space of an entire 24 hours. Try and find an acceptable reason as to why you can’t find the time now - “I don’t want to,” is, of course, a different matter altogether… Here’s a mini-workout that anyone can do; either first thing in the morning, after the school run, during your lunch break or when you need to get up from your desk. A much healthier alternative to a cigarette/coffee break. With all these exercises, quality is always far more important than quantity. If you’re not doing the move correctly, doing 500 of them is less effective than doing 20 the right way. You’re also much more likely to injure yourself. Aim for careful, conscious movements. Prepare yourself by breathing properly. This means taking deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth, taking in enough air to activate your diaphragm. Place your hands either side of your ribcage and notice how the space between your hands increases as you fill your abdo-
Photo: Matteo Canessa FreeImages.com
Just 15 minutes to a healthier you
Need to lose weight? There are no excuses with this 15 minute workout
in between jumps – stretching your arms out firmly and taking care not to jolt your knees. Repeat steps three to seven, twice or three times, depending on your pace and enthusiasm.
To finish off Shoulder and ankle circles Relax completely and take it in turns to move each shoulder and ankle in both a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction five to eight times.
Neck Stretches Carefully lean your head to one side, stretching the side of your neck. Change sides and repeat, holding the stretch for 10 seconds each side. Lastly, move your head in clockwise circles five times, followed by anticlockwise. This information was brought you by the Activate Sports Club, Costa Adeje. For more great tips on getting, and staying, fit, as well as information on classes and facilities, see: www.tenerifeactivate.com. n
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Many thanks for all your emails and phone calls from last edition’s column about Greece. The more irreverent they were, the more I laughed. Here are some of the best ones: “As of this week, all new Euros are to be printed on Greeceproof paper.” “Alex Tsipras has said that Greece will “bounce back” just like their cheques.” “What are the first three letters of the Greek alphabet? I.O.U.” And finally, my favourite from Terry Hill: “My son wanted to know what it was like to live in Greece so I took his pocket money off him.” Of course, it’s a terrible situation but I was shocked to learn from a news bulletin that Germany has made a huge profit from the crisis in poor old Greece.
According to Yahoo News, Germany has made €100 billion through lower interest payments on funds the government borrowed amid investor “flights to safety”. “These savings exceed the costs of the crisis – even if Greece were to default on its entire debt”, said the non-profit Leibniz Institute of Economic Research in its paper. When investors are faced with turmoil they typically seek a safe haven for their money and Germany “disproportionately benefited” from that during the debt crisis, it said. The bonds of other countries - including the United States, France and the Netherlands -had also benefited, but “to a much smaller extent”. Germany’s share of the international rescue packages for Greece, including a new loan
39
and, depending on the content, you can add your name and comments on the matter at hand. They need 100,000 email voters on each subject to present it to the House of Commons to force a discussion or vote on the topic. They have forced the government to rethink privatising parts of the National Health Service, and many others too numerous to list. I don’t send my vote in for everything, only those subjects I feel strongly about. Across the UK and in India thousands of people are calling on Unilever to pay proper compensation for their devastating toxic mercury spill in the Indian town of Kodaikanal. They are alleged to have dumped tons of toxic waste, devastated an entire town and poisoned thousands of people.
Unilever is a huge UK corporation that makes billions of pounds in profit every year. However, they aren’t paying to help the victims of a massive mercury leak they are said to have caused. You might not have heard of Unilever, but you’ve probably used their products, from PG Tips tea, to Marmite, to Dove soap, they own some of the most popular brands in the country. So if enough people get involved we can force Unilever to pay the compensation they owe. If you have a few minutes to spare, do go on line and see if you wish to support a cause. Until next time, take care of yourselves and especially of n each other. Email: katykennedy@telefonica.net. Tel: 616 110 930.
Hi everyone, katykennedy@telefonica.net
Photo: Robert Crc / Wikipedia Free Art License
By
y Kat
KATY / PETS
Bouncing back – Greek prime minister Alexis Tsipras
being negotiated now, came to around €90 billion, quoted Yahoo News. Even if Greece doesn’t pay back a single cent, the German public purse has benefited financially from the crisis”, said the Leibniz Institute of Economic Research.
Doesn’t it take your breath away! And Germany is the very country setting out many of the most stringent rules for Greece’s government. I am a member of 38 Degrees, an online organisation in the UK which can be found at: www.38degrees.org.uk. They send emails to all contributors
Pets charities round up Live Arico Thank you to everyone who entertained and supported the recent benefit at Coral Mar square in Costa del Silencio where our friends at San Francisco de los Animales raised €640 towards the building of their new kennels. Steve and Julie at Euro Bar supplied the PA system and the entertainment was staged by Suzy Q, Derrick Lynes, Reis Hinchey, the Memphis Belles, Alfie, Cara as Blondie, Harley Fox, Debbie Diamond, Chrissy Dee, Aidy Evans, Beth Adams, Pip Brown, Indy, Gordon Slayney and Colin Gibb. We also had another great trip on the MustCat which raised €800. Thanks to everyone and, of course, Justin and his crew on the catamaran. All is going well at our new charity shop on the Golf, and please remember that our vet, Cesar Bertoldi, is with us every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm offering advice on all aspects of pet health care. Feel free to pop by and have a chat with him. We are situated at Golf Park and open 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. We also have shops in Los Cristianos and San Eugenio. They are open
Hope for a new start
Contact Live Arico for more information on Pillo
from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday; and until 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. Come and have a browse, bag a bargain and help the animals. Find us at: www.livearico.com, on Facebook, or join us on Twitter: twitter.com/live_arico.
Acción del Sol The construction of the new Granadilla port which is being built near our refuge is causing major problems with our staff and dogs. The trucks and heavy plant machinery are creating a continuous dustcloud with the refuge taking the full force. Our staff now have to wear dust masks and
humans and dogs alike are starting to suffer from eye, throat and respiratory infections. Thanks to the Atlantic Whale Foundation and their students who have helped us during this bad time. We are asking for your help with donating brown shade netting which we can cover the outdoor recreational areas with. It can be bought at any DIY store for around €16 a roll. With the work forecast to continue for the next three years we really need your help to protect our dogs from the harmful dust particles. Please call 922 778 630 between 8am and 5pm for more information, about adop-
tions or if you would like to help out in any way. Acción del Sol is situated at the Poligono Industrial Estate, Exit 51 on the TF1, directly next to the Parque Eolica where the wind turbines are. We are always in need of blankets, towels, dog leads, collars and puppy milk: if you have any to donate, it would be really appreciated. We are open to the public Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 2pm to 5pm. On Saturdays we’re open from 1pm till 4pm.
K9 We regularly ask San Miguel borough council to help us
The Acción del Sol shelter is being affected by the building of the Granadilla port
find suitable land we could buy or rent within a four-mile radius of our existing kennels, which have become harder to maintain. If anyone knows of somewhere suitable for animal use, we would love to hear from you. Our shop on Alcala Plaza is in continual need of donations. If you have anything suitable, please take it to the shop. The kennels are open every day from 11am until 2pm. If you have any enquiries or are looking for a dog or cat, the number n is: 667 638 468.
Pillo was found as a sixmonth-old puppy, knocked down and hurt in the road. He is now two and looks like a cuddly wolf. Can you give him a chance of happiness? If so call Sue on 629 388 102. We always suggest a trial period to see how everyone gets on. n Adopt, don’t buy…
Tierhotel Lilly We look after your pet while you are away
(short or long term)
Tel: 697 826 738 (D/E), 659 131 382 (SP, Trainer)
www.tierhotel-lilly.com
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HOROSCOPES | CLASSIFIEDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Horoscope for period: August 27 to September 9 Aries 21.3 - 20.4 You are currently on top form, particularly in your professional life: No matter how big the problem is, you can find a solution. What stands out especially is that you discuss decisions with your colleagues, and thus ensure a great working atmosphere.
Contacts
Taurus 21.4 - 20.5 To keep it short: you know that you have done something very wrong. However, you seem to have learned from your mistakes, and are now trying to save what can be saved - but it would be less stressful if in the future you don’t leave it to develop so far.
Relaxing, energising, sensual and tantric massages for her, him and couples in Playa de Las Américas. Tel. 642 311 909
Gemini 21.5 - 21.6 Normally, you always prefer to look forward, but at the moment taking a good look at your past would be helpful because you will then quickly realise just why you react in some situations as you do.
Erotic massages, also tantric and other services with attractive German lady. No rush, nice location and Jacuzzi. Tel. 619 614 380. Liberal German couple invites men to erotic parties, also threesomes: Tel. 00 34 648 245 425
Cancer 22.6 - 22.7 Sometimes you amaze everyone around you. For example, when you are brave enough to face conflicts without your emotional armour in place. And that is definitely worthwhile. Mainly because you find that, by being honest, co-existence is much easier for all concerned. Leo 23.7 - 23.8 It is not an easy job for anyone to negotiate with you: You are as obstinate as you are passionate when it comes to your needs. People need very good arguments if they want to convince you of a matter. Virgo 24.8 - 23.9 Whatever you do, you take it to its limits. Therefore you currently have a high affinity for fitness in any form: be it swimming in the sea, jogging on the beach or biking through the mountains - it makes you a lot of fun to be around. Libra 24.9 - 23.10 One of your best traits is that you give so much of yourself to keep the things around you in balance. Make sure, however, that this aspiration doesn’t damage your own personal harmony. Sometimes you need to set very firm limits. Scorpio 24.10 - 22.11 Boredom is unheard of for you and routine doesn’t appear in your vocabulary either: Both work and your private life can be turbulent sometimes. How nice that during the biggest chaos, you still have time for a smile and nice word. Sagittarius 23:11 - 21.12 You should currently make sure that everything you do, you do especially thoroughly, because the greatest threat at the moment comes from small oversights. This also applies to your finances, so make sure you have everything clearly set out. Capricorn 22:12 - 20.01 Normally, you are more likely to be a person of deeds rather than words. But at the moment it would make sense to end a problem or misunderstanding by clearly discussing it. Otherwise, you are dependent on mere conjecture. Aquarius 21.1 - 20.2 You shine particularly brightly in the spotlight but this means that even tiny faults can be mercilessly illuminated. So before you move into the centre, make sure that everything is well with you and ready to be scrutinised. Pisces 21.2 - 20.3 Objectivity is one of your greatest strengths and this should really come into play now. It allows you to see more clearly than if you are caught up in the chaos which is raging all around you: So continue trying to stay out of it.
Los Cristianos, Russian Elena, fully figured, relaxed lady, 30 years old, discreet apartment in front of bus station. Building Royal – Los Cristianos, call me before. I speak a little English. Tel. 626 712 090
Open your mind and enjoy your body. Put yourself in the hands of a Latin goddess, a beautiful woman for your enjoyment. Pleasure is not a sin. All massages and services for men. Information and appointments also via Whatsapp. Tel. 00 34 I am in Los Cristianos, I’m 673 631 177 Diana, Latin woman, 23 Relaxing, energising, senyears old, amazing body, sual and tantric massages pretty, without limits. I am for her, him and couples in waiting for you in my pri- Playa de las Américas. Tel. vate apartment. Tel. 695 642 311 909 072 917
Los Cristianos. Patricia returns! Blonde from Venezuela, nice body, big breasts, all services, without limits, 24 hours, discreet apartment, in Calle Noruega, near Altavista supermarket in Los CrisOnly for ladies: Escorts, tianos. I can visit you. Tel. excursions, wellness and 605 375 495 also erotic massages with Marc from Germany. He Las Américas - Blonde speaks English well and Colombian, slim, beautiful, has his own apartment and amazing body, sexy, all servcar. Visits to your location ices, natural French, masare possible. Tel. 630 759 sages, erotic toys, Greek, kisses, threesomes, pri974 vate apartment, hotel visits, Hello lovely, I’m your sexi- I will make your fantasies est dream and I’m here to come true. I speak English. please you. Beautiful and You will want to repeat. Tel. sexy escort for your needs 649 879 663 and pleasures. Good spoken English. Couples are Greetings! I’m Emma, I’m also welcome. Tel. 634 24 years old and I’m from Colombia. I’m mixed-raced 116 164 and I do erotic tantric masLos Cristianos, Margaret, 23 sages. You can call me on years old. Beautiful, slim, 634 132 066 and ask for white, dominant, erotic an appointment and I will massages, natural French, send you my erotic photos. horny, adventurous, spec- Tenerife South (Los Cristacular hips, explode in my tianos). If you are in S/C mouth, private apartment, north, only with an appointdiscreet, 24 hours. Tel. 692 ment. Feel the sense of our 50 69 73 / 664 077 390 privacy.
Erotic massages, also tantric and other services with attractive German lady. No rush, nice location and Jacuzzi. Tel. 619 614 380. Liberal German couple invites men to erotic parties, also threesomes: Tel. 00 34 648 245 425 Only for ladies: Escorts, excursions, wellness and also erotic massages with Marc from Germany. He speaks English well and has his own apartment and car. Visits to your location are possible. Tel. 630 759 974
To advertise your services with us, please call 922 75 06 09
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
CLASSIFIEDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
41
Classifieds
From buying a pet to moving house and everything in between
Island Connections Online: www.islandconnections.eu
Classifieds Deadline Next Edition The deadline for edition 754, which is published on 10th September, is 8th Sept. No classifieds will be taken after this date.
Head Office Tenerife: Calle Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6º- first floor. Pol. Industrial Las Chafiras 38620 - San Miguel de Abona. Tel. 922 750 609 Fax: 922 795 810 Office Hours: Mon-Frid 9am-5pm
Classifieds Info: For personal and professional help in placing your classified in Island Connections all you need to do is pop along to our new offices in Las Chafiras and speak to our Staff. Not only is Island Connections here to ensure that your advertisement reaches its target market, we will also advise on sizing requirements for maximum exposure, with prices to suit your pocket.
Rates: * Lineage classifieds: From 16 € * Boxed Ads: Colour Module 47,25€ * Long Term: Ask for long term advertising (3, 6, 12 months) and our special discounts.
You are welcome to come to our offices in Las Chafiras to place small ads. Card payment facilities are available.
After school classes, help or
General Services
activities in English, German or Spanish, please contact Mrs. Garus. Tel. 602 506 793. We are 5 minutes away from Wingate School in Cabo Blanco. Massage saloon Ilona. Offer:
Spiritual, rune and tarot readings. Advice on matters of the heart, money and health. As a psychic medium I can also communicate with your loved ones who have passed over. Call me on 664 046 489. Learn how to speak Spanish with lessons, audio, video and games, including the alphabet, phrases, vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar and activities. Only with a native teacher. Puerto de la Cruz area, call Saida. Tel: 630 574 073 Rocket Café - An American style diner selling 100 per cent beef homemade burgers; homemade cakes; the best coffees; and exquisite cocktails. C/ Luis Álvarez Cruz, 5 (Opposite the post office), Las Galletas: 922 731 847 For sale. Home-produced ecological vegetables, Tenerife south. Interested businesses, call 650 323 751 (Spanish only), send WhatsApp or email to: michelteide@hotmail.com www.mascuidados.com Website for our massages, dedicated to bringing the benefits of therapeutic massage to your home or hotel, no charge for travel. Do you want a massage? www.mascuidados.com Tel. 663 190 727
Santiago del Teide Lions Club
Bargains galore From clothes and children’s toys to kitchenware and books – there are plenty of great deals on secondhand goods. They even have sets of golf clubs! Don’t miss out – visit their shop below the plaza in Puerto Santiago (Behind Vigilia Park): Open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10am – 1pm and Wednesdays 2pm to 8pm.
60 minutes full body massage for €36. Couples, four hands, lava stones, massages, etc. Playa de las Americas, Ernesto Sarti no.18, across from Iberostar Hotel in Torviscas Playa. Tel. 602 608 626 or email: ilonarebisch@hotmail.com
Integrated Tax Planning and Wealth Management since 1975
922 716 079 www.blevinsfranks.com
BLOCK BUSTERS WE UNBLOCK ALL TYPES OF DRAINS
internal and external using our high pressure jets and cameras.
Call
647 928 223
Spanish and English Lawyers
Conveyancing • Inheritance & Wills Family Law • Criminal Law Civil Litigation & Personal Injury Timeshare • Tax & Commercial law
Lamp Factory Buy during your holidays We deliver to your home country Ctra. General C-820, Travesía la Panadería, 1 38440 Santo Domingo (La Guancha) Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Tel / Fax: 922 130 301 OPENING HOURS: Monday to Saturday 9 am to 2 pm & 4 pm to 9 pm
T: E:
922 719 520
tenerife@decottalaw.net
Av. de Los Pueblos, Residencial Villaflor B-20, San Eugenio
www.decottalaw.net
MASONIC MEETINGS Logia Ave Fenix Nº 73 Edificio Simón, Los Cristianos. Meetings every fourth Tuesday starting in October 2014 (Installation) until the fourth Tuesday in April 2015
All Visitors welcome Contact John Donaldson (Secretary):
(+34) 922 178 091 or donaldsonjh@yahoo.co.uk
Kitchen Co.
Kitchen Bathroom & Building Mark has a great team of professionals for your kitchen, bathroom, building work, plumbing, aluminium doors & windows, electrical work, painting & decorating, plastering, parquet flooring, etc. Plans & permits included. Long term guarantees on all work. Happily living & working in Tenerife since 1987 For general help & advice, please call Mark on 619 472 458 or 922 362 834 or email mark@kitchenco.es
©2014 FLN
Island connections media group s.l. www.islandconnections.eu
42
Rental Classifieds Four-bedroom, fully-furnished house in San Isidro with garage.
The property comprises of four large bedrooms, three bathrooms, large living room, kitchen, and large terrace. €750 p/m. Email: richard@larkinproperty. com or tel. 686 290 903
One bedroom apartment on the beachfront in Los Cristianos. €450 p/m including bills.
Email: richard@larkinproperty. com or tel. 686 290 903
For Rent Playa de las Americas 1 Bedroom apartment. Well-furnished and equipped, central location, quite area close to beach. No Finder’s fee. €570 all in. Call 620 230 871 / 922 75 11 13 Winter letting Puerto de La Cruz Studio apartment, 24 hour concierge, pool, sea views. Minimum three month contract. €500 per month. 669 652 149 Los Cristianos Cactus 2, for rent attractive two bedroom apartment, sea views, pool, satellite TV, large terrace, unsuitable for children, €650 per month + bills, minimum 3 months. Tel. 629 606 494 Rustic finca for long term let near Icod de los Vinos. Fully equipped and furnished, open fire, satellite TV and Wi-Fi available. Fantastic sea and mountain views, sun terrace and barbeque, €450 PCM. Tel. Spain: 0034 922 865 776. UK mobile: 0044 (0) 7786 390541. Spanish mobile: 0034 674 287 632. Email: Philhirstconsultant@btinternet.com or P.D.Hirst@gmail.com Penthouse 150 m2, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, terrace 120 m2, with garage, unfurnished in San Eugenio Alto for rent from March 1. Tel. 666 365 996 or email: kvan_os8@ web.de.
SALEs Classifieds Comercial property for sale in Los Cristianos Calle Suecia, best place for a store or cafe! Directly from the owner. 42 square meters. Phone: 922 726 029 / 696 978 211
CLASSIFIEDS
€39.990 Sunny apartment for sale (Studio) in Playa Paraiso (Tenerife-South), 40 m2, with balcony, spectacular sea views, pools, SAT-TV. Very near to the beach, supermarket, restaurants and bus-stop. Private sale. Tel. 922 30 15 75, email: mesa3@telefonica.nice Looking to swap my house in Tenerife for a house in Dublin or surroundings. If agreed, the time could be arranged. From a month to a year time gap. Call Carmen 693 727 683 Villa for sale in San Isidro, 11,500 m2, living area 400 m2, 4 bedrooms, living room, 4 bathrooms, kitchen, dining room, office, double garage, utility room, hobby room, pool, sauna. Telephone 922 390 951, email: horstbrett@gmx.de. Price: €990.000 (negotiable) possibility of payment terms. Website: horstbrett.de Apartment Tabaiba Alta for sale, only five mins away from the German school, roughly 102ms, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, utility room, garden, big terrace. Spectacular views of the sea and mountain, big garage with 2 spaces, 2 closed store rooms, price €180,000, mob. 686 798 367, email eoptenerife@gmail.com www.teneriffa-fincas.net For Sale! Favourable living in the sun. Staying at the most beautiful camping place of Tenerife. Nice view of the sea and La Gomera . A Caravan (Weippert) with compact wooden front structure. (Aluminium windows and doors). Total 40 sqm. Fully equipped with TV, washingmachine and so on. p.jaegertf@gmail.com or Tel. 922 85 06 85 Los Cristianos centre near beach, I’m selling 2 business units together (90 + 40 m2) – They can be separate. Updated installations. Each one has an alarm and air conditioning. Tel. 922 792 168 – 649 142 612 Property Wanted - Kundalini is expanding. In Los Cristianos, Las Américas and Fañabé areas. Four or Five bedrooms and bathrooms, lounge, terrace and if possible a pool. Exclusive
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
area with discreet entrance. Ask for Irene: 693 979 153 Amarilla Bay, Costa del Silencio, large, two bedrooms, two bathrooms apartment to rent. Fully furnished, English TV, three balconies, community swimming pool, close to all local amenities. €550 per month plus bills. Telephone 659 489 690. One of the most beautiful fincas! Villa and Guesthouse. Pool, Sauna Whirpool, Tennis court, Bodega, Garage, Water tank. Nice view to the sea and Teide, 8,500 sqm. P.o.r. p.jaegertf@gmail.com or Tel. 922 850 685 Two very good business premises for sale. Leasehold, restaurant near beach in Los Cristianos, €120,000, and bar/snacks Los Cristianos, €65,000. Tel. 690 676 527 160m2
For sale, Bungalow Costa Sauzal, situated front row with guaranteed spectacular sea-views, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms , living room with panoramic windows, modern kitchen, dining room connected to the terrace, including a heated 4 x 8 m pool, all on same level, garage and a marvellous tropical garden with 800m2 landscaped with various plants and lots of fruit-trees. Private sale contact: info@ simonsananes.com. Tel.: 00 34 699 444 879 Best Deal Properties from banks & firstline. Bungalow Club Atlantis, 2 bedrooms €249,000; Fañabe beach 1 bedroom, €170,000; Torviscas beach 2 bedrooms 159 m2, €250,000; Torviscas 2 bedrooms, €110,000; Cristianos beach €118,000. Tel. 628 486 190 – 922 718 257 Looking to swap my house in Tenerife for a house in Dublin or surroundings. If agreed, the time could be arranged. From a month to a year time gap. Call Carmen 693 727 683 Offer of the month in Puerto de la Cruz. Beautiful studio, at Playa Jardin, with nice furniture, 40m2 with terrace and oceansight, pool, tennis area, restaurant, elevator 48.000€. Mov. 604 100 174.
Apartments for rent & sale. Apartments at playa Jardin, centricity, furnished, with washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, TV plasma, fully equiped, 1 or 2 bedrooms, new prices for rent 530€ and 650€ per month, water and electricity apart, garage. Also available studios, townhouses and villas all over Tenerife. Mov. 604 100 174.
Urb. Oasis Dakota, Playa Fañabé 3 bed semi detached, toilet, complete bathroom, separate kitchen, totally equipped, furnished, 35m2 terrace, secure access to pool, infant park, good views, beside commercial centres, 800m from Playa Fañabé, community fees 30€/month. Tel 629 244 958
€165,000
Appartment in Botánico with BBQ, common pool, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, salon, kitchen, terrace, aprox,300 m2, 1 extra bedroom with toilet, garage, for sale 380.000€ or for rent 1.350€ + Extras per month, Mov. 604 100 174. Los Cristianos, central apartments, 1 and 2 bedrooms, furnished, Tel: 649 142 612
Property for Rent For Long
Term Rent
Mature people preferred. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, big kitchen, 1 terrace, living room, garden with fruit trees, in quiet area. Tel. 609 531 178 melquiadesm@hotmail.com
Property for Sale
www.villatenerifenorte.com
€690.000
8% Commission to intermediaries
Private Sale 10.800 m2 Tel. (0034) 682 392 956
Opportunity in Torviscas Alto (Playa Fañabé) Apartment, 60m2, one bed, furnished with terrace 8m2, views over the pool and La Gomera. Quiet neighbourhood, near to commercial centres, Playa Fañabé , safe, communal zones. Community pool. Community monthly fee, €49. Excellent investment. Price €75,000.
Advert Placement www.islandconnections.eu
Iñaky - Tel. 629.24.49.58 aska_tenis@hotmail.com
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
Chalet on Camp Site Guía de Isora Double bedroom, fitted wardrobes, shower, WC, hand basin, gas boiler, 4 gas rings, microwave, kitchen diner, TV, DVD, Hi-Fi, CD system, patio, sea view, table and chairs, swimming pool, security gate,parking, rates paid till March 2016. For sale furnished €21,000
The easy way to sell or rent properties
For sale freehold
UK Tel. 0044 (0) 1903690309. UK Mob. 07973349111. Spain Tel. 0034 922 136 778. Spain Mob. 646 586 318
Bellamar 11
2 bed Ground Floor apartment. Costa Adeje. Large terraces back and front and spacious interior. Community pool, enclosed parking, fully furnished. Built to high spec. store room. Separate fully equipped kitchen. Immaculate!!
CLASSIFIEDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
El Médano Las Dunas
Ten-Bel Costa sol
Chalet for sale Las Dunas El Medano Granadilla de Abona Tenerife South Rooms: 2 Plot: 150 m² . air connditioning . terrace . swimming pool € 210.000
Apartment Ten-Bel | Arona Tenerife South Rooms: 1 Plot: 110 m² . terrace . private garage . store room . swimming pool € 79.275
www.paluum.com
Mobile home in prime position. Camping Nauta
Purpose built 2008. Double glazed. Large Approx 65m2. 2 big bedrooms. Fully tiled bathroom. Fitted kitchen. Spacious Loung dinner. All electric. Laminate floors. Air con. Garden. Car parking. Use of all site facilities.
€36.000
Tel. 693 760 769 Sought after complex. 2 bed Duplex Ground Floor apartment. Las Americas sea views, fully furnished. Big private sunny terrace and upstairs terrace. Rental opportunity!
Call Alan: 667 513 689
Los Gigantes flat
Apartment Arona Tenerife South Studio Plot: 39 m² € 104.000,00 www.paluum.com
Santiago del Teide Tenerife South Rooms: 2 Plot: 40 m² € 66.690
Pto. de la Cruz La paz
Las Chafiras el roque
La Laguna Rent
Apartment for rent La Paz Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife North Studio Plot: 216 m² . furnitured . balcony . lift swimming pool € 450/month
Villa for sale Las Chafiras S. Miguel de Abona Tenerife South Rooms: 4 Plot: 266 m² . terrace . private garage . store room € 129.500
Apartment for rent La Laguna Tenerife North Rooms: 1 Plot: 60 m² . furnitured . washing machine . fridge . terrace . comunity area € 350/month
La Esperanza house
Pto. de la Cruz Apartment
Guía de Isora abama
El Rosario Tenerife North Rooms: 2 Plot: 803 m² € 250.000
Almácigo Tenerife North Rooms: 2 Plot: 68 m² € 95.000
Playa. San Juan Tenerife South Rooms: 2 Plot: 56 m² € 107.000
www.paluum.com
www.paluum.com
richard@larkinproperty.com
Golf villa for sale
Call Alan: 667 513 689
Great location! Price €220,000
If you would like to advertise your portfolio of propertys on www.paluum.com please email sales@icmedia.eu
Los Cristianos Studio
Large bar: established Irish bar for 25 years, overlooking Los Cristianos harbour and beach, ideal Investment Property as it comes with a 2 bed. and a 1 bed apartment on sea front. Being sold with tenants in place or vacant. Total Price for the lot €330,000 leaving a yield of over 11%, mortgage can be arranged.
Great location €239,000!
Parque Santiago 11
43
Pickup Point Clínica Dental Fañabé C.C. Fañabé Plaza
Situated in the
Real Golf Club Tenerife in Tacoronte
243 m2. Garage for two cars. Hall with a little toilet, dining room, living room, 2 bedrooms with 2 complete bathrooms, dress room, kitchen, service bedroom with bathroom, and terrace around the villa. Garden 750 m2.
www.paluum.com
www.paluum.com
www.paluum.com
Information Tel. +34 659 928 805
www.paluum.com
www.paluum.com
www.paluum.com
44
CLASSIFIEDS | PASTIMES
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Situations
Vacant / wanted Promotions company with more than 10 years experience in selling attractive, high quality products in Tenerife markets, 5 star hotels and superstores is looking for open minded full/part time promoters, who like to present and sell in live promotion. No selling experience is required. Contract + Social Security + fixed salary + commission is guaranteed. Feel free to contact us for further information. Office: 922 781 548 Fax: 922 781 548 Mob: 629 493 799 Seeking highly motivated distributors for a natural product. This is not only for Tenerife but also for the UK. Send CV to oroten10@gmail.com or call 0034 922 985 462
A new upcoming business is looking for attractive, high
class and opened minded women, to
work in a different and exciting profession. Call 669 977 993 for more information.
Vehicles
Fiat Panda,
Qualified and experienced native
English, German, Russian and Spanish teachers wanted for new language school in El Médano. Please send your CV to info@babelacademy.es
FRUSTRATED WITH THE LANGUAGE BARRIER? I’m a Spanish translator and can help with the doctor’s, school, NIE’s, community meetings etc.
115.000 km, Top Zustand, Air Condition Tansferkosten inklusive.
3.500€
Tel. 609 248 245
Letters & CV’s also translated
Tel: 649 882 366
Ford Fiesta,
100.000 km, Top Zustand. Air Condition, Transferkosten inklusive.
3.900€
Tel. 609 248 245 (For Crossword and Sudoku solution see pag 40)
Live-in nanny required in south area. Should have experience. Please send your CV to e-mail lin@rebl.biz or call 696 713 635 Lin
Across
1 - preliminaries (8) 6 - inner circle (4) 8 - attach (6) 9 - article of clothing (6) 10 - bloke (3) 11 - vipers (4) 12 - dung beetle (6) 13 - takes up (6)
15 - inhibits (6) 17 - residential district (6) 20 - framework (4) 21 - curved shape (3) 22 - desert plant (6) 23 - concealed (6) 24 - tax (4) 25 - tanks (8)
Down
2 - confided in (7) 3 - vegetables (5) 4 - fairground vehicles (7) 5 - moves back and forth (5) 6 - satisfy (7) 7 - governing body (5) 14 - fowl (7)
15 - savoury pies (7) 16 - stand (7) 18 - practice (5) 19 - staple (5) 20 - elevation (5)
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
FARMERS MARKET
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
Farmer’s Markets Adeje Calle Archajara, s/n, in front of Makro Saturday/Sunday 8am – 2pm / Wednesday 4pm – 8pm Telephone: 922 775 200 Alcalá Plaza de Llano Monday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 850 100 Arafo Plaza San Juan Degollado Thursday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 511 711 Arico Porís de Abona Sunday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 676 159 034 Arona Valle San Lorenzo, Carretera General 122 Monday/Friday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 767 138 Buenavista del Norte Plaza de San Sebastián Opening times: Saturday 8.30am – 2pm Telephone: 922 129 030 Candelaria Wednesday 2pm - sell out. Next to council offices Saturday 9am – 3pm. Plaza del Centro Commercial de Punta Larga Telephone: 922 505 014 El Médano Plaza Principal Wednesday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 759 966/62 El Rosario Carretera General del Norte, la Esperanza Saturday/Sunday/festivals 8am – 4pm Telephone: 922 010 160 El Sauzal Hoya de la Vida, next to the church, Ravelo Friday/Saturday/Sunday 7.30am- 2pm Telephone: 922 584 657
Güímar Plaza del Ayuntamiento Sunday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 526 105
side behind Titsa Depot) 8am – 3pm closed Mondays Tel 922 076544
Guía de Isora Plaza del Pueblo de Garachico Friday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 850 100
Playa de San Juan Plaza de la Iglesia Wednesday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 850 100
Icod de Los Vinos Calle Key Muñoz 5 Monday/Friday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 815 700 / 922 447 938 La Guancha Carretera General TFS km 49 Saturday/Sunday 8am – 3pm Telephone: 922 360 788 La Laguna Plaza del Cristo Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday 6am – 2pm Telephone: 922 601 100 / 922 253 903 La Matanza de Acentejo Ctra. General del Norte Saturday 8am – 3pm, Sunday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 577 120 La Orotava Calle Educadora Lucía Mesa Saturday 8am – 1.30pm Telephone: 922 336 804 / 681 277 633 Los Realejos Camino Viejo de San Benito, Finca el Llano, Realejo Alto Saturday/Sunday 9am – 2pm Telephone: 922 346 234 Los Silos Plaza de la Luz, Los Silos Sunday 9am – 2pm Telephone: 922 840 004 Parque de la Reina – El Cho Calle Infanta Elena, 32 (before Karting on right hand
45
Farmer’s Markets
Island support!
Puerto de la Cruz Avenida Blas Pérez González, 4 Wednesday to Saturday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 386 158 San Isidro Mercado del Agricultor de Granadilla Off the roundabout leading to El Médano Saturday/Sunday 8am – 2pm Telephone: 922 759 966 San Miguel de Abona P.I. Las Chafiras, San Miguel de Abona, next to the fire station Saturday/Sunday 8am – 2pm Wednesday 2pm – 7.30pm Telephone: 922 735 386 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Avenida José Manuel Guimerá Sunday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 606 000 Santa Úrsula Carretera General, near the town hall Saturday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 301 640 Tegueste Calle de Asuncionistas, 6 Saturday/Sunday 8.00am – 2pm Telephone: 922 316 100 Vilaflor Plaza de Vilaflor Monday to Thursday 8am – 1pm Telephone: 922 709 002
We at Island Connections are sure in the knowledge that one of the best ways to help yourself, and the economy, is to buy locally – even if you are just visiting for a short time. Canarian farmers harvest an extensive range of crops, which can be seen growing in the typical stepped-terrain farms around the Islands. Products range from tropical fruits, such as mangoes, to worldwide staples like lentils, potatoes and onions. According to the agricultural group COAG-Canarias, prices of fresh fruits and vegetables differ greatly between the amount the farmers receive and the sale price in the supermarkets. For instance, towards the end of last year, small marrows, which the farmers were paid just €0.07/ kilo for, retailed at €0.84, and leeks sold at €0.36 were passed onto the consumer for around €2.23 a kilo. Many of the prices don’t even seem to cover the cost of production - and this is when subsidies became necessary to keep farms from disappearing, which, like the hiked prices, also come out of our pockets. Enter the farmers markets, where the grower can sell directly to the customer without an intermediary. They are
dotted all over the Islands, with at least one in almost every town. They allow customers to purchase fresher, higher quality produce at cheaper prices, and the farmers receive a fair payment for their efforts. This enables them to maintain or raise the standard of their crops and uphold productivity levels – it’s a win-win situation. In these markets you will be sure to see a variety of seasonal products, as well as some local home-made delicacies such as
preserves, honeys and Canarian goat’s cheese. A selection of meats and fish can also be found among the stalls, along with an assortment of cakes, pastries and biscuits. Buy locally, eat healthily, pay fairly – this is one way we can all help each other. So, to show our support of local farmers we are taking this timely opportunity to publish the details of the many farmers’ markets around the island n of Tenerife. Enjoy.
46
BOXING | SPORTS NEWS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
Canarian clubs in limbo
By George Reed
The legal squabbles that plague Spain’s ACB league nearly every summer have once again caused problems for the Canaries’ two premiership sides. Iberostar Tenerife and Herbalife Gran Canaria have been unable to make their travel arrangements for away games due to the uncertainty as to which teams will figure in the league this season. Certain clubs who win promotion from the LEB Oro Division can be blocked from taking part in the ACB due to not meeting financial criteria, particularly the payment of a fee of several million euros, and this ruling has been successfully challenged and overturned by Spain’s
There’s no denying that professional boxing is the hardest game, even barbaric at times, which is the reason why it’s so popular with many followers of the sport. It takes some guts to step into a boxing ring and face an opponent. The majority of them will never reach the pinnacle in the fight game because of their lack of skill or punching-power, maybe their lack of stamina or the inability to take a hard punch, but they should all be saluted for their courage, and that also goes for the four-round professional novices and the six-round journeymen. We also have many who have been very successful in the boxing game, not so much for their boxing skills, but because of their tremendous hearts and granite chins. One such fighter was the New Jersey based Canadian Arturo Gatti. There are many rewards for a man who works at the trade of prize-fighting, but the road to ring glory is paved with heartbreak, washed with blood and haunted by the ghosts of fighting men who paid with their lives for the price of ring glory. On July 11, 2009, at the age of 37, Arturo Gatti was found dead on a floor, but not a ring floor. He was found on the floor of an apartment in Brazil which he and his Brazilian wife, former stripper Amanda Rodríguez, had rented. Her purse was covered in blood and wrapped around his neck. Initially his wife was charged with first-degree murder by Brazilian police but she was later released and his death was ruled a suicide. It seems that the circumstances of his death cannot be determined with certainty. Arturo Gatti was recently inducted posthumously into the International Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York State. The ultimate honour the sport can bestow. Some say that even though he was a two-weight world title holder, when he met the best of his time (such as Floyd Mayweather and Oscar de la Hoya) he was beaten – and by seven other less talented fighters – in his career record of 40 wins and nine losses. The critics may have a point, but then I didn’t hear much criticism when Sylvester Stallone, who I believe never put on a pair of boxing gloves for a serious boxing match, was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame for his contribution to boxing through the Rocky films. So I don’t see why anyone was against Gatti being inducted as he was something very special. He was a big star, especially with American fans who loved him. He had a big heart and would go through hell to win a fight and could absorb absurd punishment to win. He wasn’t the greatest boxer, but he made great fights, which is why HBO television in America, who had a clause in the contracts with all their fighters that if they lost the contract was voided, never enforced it with Gatti, for he was always more than willing to fight to the severest level. Most boxing fans love a real ding-dong battle, which produces a fight in which no quarter is asked or given and has the passion, courage and sheer guts that no other sport can match. Gatti was involved in many such battles, none more so than the first one with Micky Ward, who’s life-story film The Fighter was a big success. The two ultimate crownpleasers’ unquestionable spirit and thirst for sheer survival had the blood flowing after one minute of the first round and from the third round the fight gave way to the slugfest everyone wanted to see. The fight swung one way then the other like a pendulum, until round nine which turned out to be one of the most dramatic and brutal rounds of boxing I’ve ever seen, as they hammered the hell out of each other. Gatti was almost out on his feet at the end of the round, but he came out for the tenth and last round and defied boxing logic. With his left eye almost closed he attacked Ward desperately and won the round, but not the fight, which the judges awarded to his opponent by the narrowest margin of points. The fight was chilling and spine-tingling and the thought of a return fight made me shudder, but they did have a return fight n and Arturo Gatti got his revenge..
Photo: Karl McLaughlin
Basketball league chaos
Boxing roundup
Players remain united in the face of uncertainty
sports authorities and the courts. This means that the
ACB has been unable to draw up the calendar of fixtures,
given that it must wait for the outcome of the appeal process. The confusion is not so serious for mainland clubs but it can hit the pockets of Iberostar Tenerife and Herbalife Gran Canaria, the Canaries’ two topflight sides, who have no idea when and where they will be playing every other week and miss out on cheaper flights. Félix Hernández, chairman of Iberostar Tenerife, voiced his frustration at the situation at the end of August, complaining that a league which brands itself as the second best in the world after the NBA cannot allow its image to be tarnished by the annual squabble and the knock-on effects on n clubs’ preparations.
Woodward joins Clarinos
Young American basketball player Kayla Woodward has made the switch from her native Wyoming to Tenerife to try her first professional experience. The 22-year-old is a product of Sheridan High School in her home state, where she also went to University, playing for the basketball team
throughout her four years as a student. Kayla played in all 30 of her side’s games last season and averaged nearly 15 points and eight rebounds. She finished among the top 15 in nine career categories, including fourth in scoring with 1,769 career points, and was named All-Mountain West four times dur-
ing her career, and the MW pre-season player of the year twice. “I definitely wanted to continue my career in basketball” she explained, adding that the move to second division CB Clarinos in La Laguna has given her the perfect opportunity to do that and see different parts n of the world.
Photo: CB Clarinos
Wyoming for Tenerife
Wyoming’s Kayla Woodward
Better late than never
Tenerife’s new Basque arrival Tenerife’s Basque connection continues into 2015/16 with the arrival of Jon Aurtenetxe days before the start of the season. The left back has signed onloan from Athletic Bilbao after being told by his manager Ernesto Valverde at the start of the summer that he
would not command a first team place. “I had been looking for a side to spend the season with and had no doubts when Tenerife came in for me. The club is a historic one and is going places and I have very good references from three friends, Iker Guarrotxena, Unai Albizua and Igor
Arnáez, who followed the same route as me from Bilbao and have spoken wonders of the fans and atmosphere”, said Aurtenetxe. The arrival of the Basque should solve a major headache for Tenerife manager Raul Agné, who has struggled to find a natural left back and
was forced to play several players out of position last year to fill the berth. Aurtenetxe made his full debut for Bilbao as a 17year-old in December 2009 and was part of the Spain Under-19 side that won the European Championship in n 2011.
Carolina Martín embarrassed
The deep divide between Spain’s past and present has reared its head again in the most unlikely place. Spanish badminton star Carolina Martín saw her successful defence of her world title in Indonesia overshadowed by the controversy surrounding the playing of the national anthem.
Draped in her country’s flag, the 22-year-old, who defeated India’s Saina Nehwal in the final, looked embarrassed but kept up her smile when the Franco-era Spanish national anthem, instead of the modern one which does not contain any lyrics, was played at the medal ceremony. The Badminton World Federation
(BWF) intervened quickly to apologise for the error and released a statement soon after the ceremony. “The Badminton World Federation and the local hosts for the BWF World Championships have apologised to Carolina Marin for playing the incorrect version of Spain’s national anthem today” it read. n
Anthem mishap in badminton final
Hard-earned respect
27.8.2015 – 9.9.2015
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 753
SPORTS NEWS | POOL LEAGUE
47
Pool news
Pool presentation night It was party time recently and the annual prize-giving event was held at Bamboo Beach Bar in San Telmo. It was a fabulous setting with the terrace and bar packed with pool players and sponsors who were all there to acknowledge the achievements of the winners in the league’s various categories. Chairman Simon Phillips kicked off the formalities with thanks to the committee and to our sponsors: Island Connections and Express Bar Deliveries. Patsy Georgiou, owner of Express Bar Deliveries was presented with a bouquet of flowers to show the league’s appreciation of her unfailing support and Grumpy and Golden (yes, that is how they are known) from her company were persuaded to present the cups. Soon all the prizes were given and everyone tucked into a buffet provided by our own Summerland Shooters player, Helen ‘Meals on Heels’ Mitchell. By this time everyone was feeling mellow and relaxed and ready to enjoy the entertainment generously laid on by our hosts Paul and Elayn. It was a fun-filled night which was well-supported and enjoyed by all.
First division champions and 4Plus Challenge winners, Phoenix
Patsy Georgiou, owner of Express Bar Deliveries, being presented with a bouquet
The awards were presented to: First Division League Champions – Phoenix First Division Runners-up – Legends A Second Division Winner – Bad Bobs Runners-up – Mad Hatters First Division Individual Statistics Winner – Graham Bollesty Runner-up – Gary Duffy Second Division Individual Statistics Winner – Dean Bull Runner-up – Simon Tatlock Express Bar Deliveries Cup Winner – Hoops Runners-up – Legends A Express Bar Deliveries Plate Winners – Toby Jug Saints Runners-up – Leones B Doubles Winners – Sam and Zac Maughan Runners-up – Dave McCready and Andy Marten Singles Winner – Stevie Muir Runner-up – Ian Taylor 4Plus Challenge Winners – Phoenix
Stevie Muir being presented with the singles winner trophy Hoops – winners of the Express Bar Deliveries Cup
First division runners-up, Legends A
Doubles runners-up, Dave McCready and Andy Marten
Ian Taylor was the singles runner-up
Bad Bobs won the second division title
Zac and Sam Maughan were winners of the doubles competition
The winner of the Express Bar Deliveries Plate was Toby Jug Saints
4 Plus Bar Winners – Pool Centre, Roger Kamp Eight from the Break Awards – Víctor Rodríguez, Pedro Roy, Alan Rowe, Lee Paddison and Martin Anderson Winner of the Cash Competition – Jeff Hall. n
Tenerife Pool Super League Powered by EXPRESS BAR DELIVERIES S.L. Information supplied by Tenerife Pool Super League www.tenerifepoolleague.com
48
sports
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 020
CD Tenerife news
Soccer Experience
High hopes after pre-season the Under-20 South American cup with Argentina. Tomas, or ‘Tommy’ as he is better known, signed for River Plate in 2011 and, after interest from European clubs including Arsenal, his club raised his ‘get-outclause’ to €10 million. Let´s be honest, if these two South American youngsters were proven players they would not be coming to CD Tenerife. Both signings are slightly risky, but when funds are low it becomes the only option. Coming in to strengthen the defence is Basque left-back Jon Aurtenetxe, who at 23 years of age has vast experience in La Liga with 172 appearances. During the 2011/2012 season he played in both legs against Manchester United in the Europa League, which eventually saw Athletic Bilbao finish as finalists. Tenerife also signed full-back Cristian Garcia from
Sponsored by: Foreign Language News & www.windowsplus.co.uk
Photo: Tatono
After a slow start on the transfer front, CD Tenerife has really burst onto the scene recently with four exciting new signings. The first new player signed was 22-year-old Anthony ‘Choco’ Lozano. The Honduran striker had spent time at Tottenham Hotspur as a youngster, greatly impressing the then boss Harry Redknapp but paperwork issues at the time scuppered the deal. He enjoyed a short stint in Spain before returning to Honduras where he has represented his national side at all levels. It was plain to see that the blanquiazules were lightweight up-front last season so it is pleasing to see more attacking options this time around. The next signing was another surprise: a young attackingmidfielder from the Argentinean club River Plate by the name of Tomas Martinez. He has also represented his country at junior level and recently won
Footballing fun on the horizon
Jon Aurtenetxe in action for Athletic Bilbao
Sabadell to provide cover for the departure of Javi Moyano. If it has been frenetic off the pitch then the on-field activities have been very encouraging indeed, with victories against La Liga side Eibar (on penalties after a 1-1 draw) and more importantly (especially for the fans) a wonderful home and away double in the Mahou Cup against local rivals and now La Liga side, UD Las Palmas. After winning 1-0 in the Heliodoro Stadium in the first leg thanks to a last-minute goal by 19-year-old Nadjib the blanquiazules travelled to Gran
Canaria with great belief. In a match distracted by unseasonable downpours and lightning, Tenerife once again came away 1-0 winners to win the tie 2-0 on aggregate. 23/08/2015 Numancia 6 CD Tenerife 3 The blanquiazules started their league campaign with a bump after suffering a heavy defeat in Soria in the north of Spain. Strangely, the last game of last season saw Numancia and Tenerife draw 3-3 and this match even topped that goal-fest. Night Fever by the Bee Gees was number one in the charts the last time Tenerife conceded six goals in a second division game, and they suffered their own defence ‘fever’ in a match to forget. Changes were forced upon manager Raul Agne after defender Javi Moyano left for Valladolid a few days before the game. Camera switched to right back and Germàn and Jon Aurtenetxe made their debuts in the centre-half and left-back positions respectively. It was obvious that the new look defence was not prepared. There were some positives for Tenerife, after conceding in the fourth minute they hit back to take a 2-1 lead going into the break with goals from Suso and Carlos Ruiz. The second half saw the home team run riot and they quickly raced into a 4-2 lead. The attacking-minded Tenerife boss went for broke, bringing on attackers to try and salvage something from the game but the result was secured on 81 minutes as the home team scored their fifth goal to make it 5-2. There was still time for more action as young striker Nano pulled one back for Tenerife before Numancia netted in injury time to finish off the thrashing at 6-3. On August 30 CD Tenerife meet Nastic Tarragona with a 7.30pm kick off in the Heliodoro Stan dium, Santa Cruz.
Right now Soccer Experience in the south of Tenerife has a weekly group of kids from Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Scotland, Spain, Uruguay, England and Russia playing regular football, and now that pre-season is about to start we are looking for some new players to join the teams. We will be providing weekly football sessions in Los Cristianos for the following groups of kids. If your children would like to come along please let us know as soon as possible: Pre-Benjamin (Under-8) and Benjamin (Under-10) on Mondays at 5.30pm and Wednesdays at 6pm. Alevin (Under12) and Infantil (Under-14) on Wednesdays at 7pm and Fridays at 6.15pm. The kids are enjoying some fun football and gaining healthy exercise. We have also introduced a ‘player of the week’ prize, just to help them focus and play in a sporting manner. The way the kids have responded has been truly impressive, both in attitude and application. Some of the recent international activities that SocExp. com has been involved in include placing a young 16year-old player from Tenerife with a Scottish Championship club, and we recently assisted with the placement of a female American College star player from California with the Tenerife team which has already qualified for the Spanish national womens league. And what a start she will experience with their first league game of the season coming up against Barcelona. We will let you know more about these two players and our international activities in the coming weeks. Our annual Tenerife 7s competition is coming back to the island and will be held on the weekend of November 6 to 8. This event includes many over-35 and over-45 teams from the UK, Spain, USA and other countries, and as always the thrill will be the chance to get to play against top ex-players from years gone by. Any older players wanting to participate should get in touch with us soon. In the coming editions we will keep you updated on this special 7s tournament. We stage ‘old man football’ every Thursday from 7.15pm, where most of the players are 40-years-old plus. If you fancy a game of ‘grumpy old man football’ please get in touch – that’s if you are brave enough! To help people who live in the south of Tenerife we have started a new local website to advise on the men’s weekly social 6s league and friendly games, and also the growing youth football classes and teams. Please have a look at the new local website for more information: www.nomadsfc. com. Email us at info@SocExp.com or telephone/message us on 0034 654 200 470. Further information can also be found at our website: www.SocExp.com. n
Former Holland and Rangers striker Michael Mols featured in last year’s 7s tournament