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April 14 – April 27, 2016 Exclusive interview
Loro Parque’s new director Pages 6 & 7
President Fernando Clavijo
Mercadona
Features in The Guardian newspaper
Prize draw
Multi-million euro payout
Win Quantum Ensemble tickets
Page 16
Page 21
Page 12
Soria implicated in Panama Papers Following the recent fallout created by the Panama Papers scandal, the Canarian politician and current Spanish minister of industry, energy and tourism, José Manuel Soria, has also been implicated in the scandal. The leaking of 11.5 million documents that provide detailed information on offshore companies and accounts has brought to light the grotesque levels of tax avoidance that occurs at the top, and particularly how wealthy individuals, including public officials, hide their money from public scrutiny to avoid paying their share.
Photo: World Travel & Tourism Council CC A 2.0 GL
Continued on page two
Canarian politician and current Spanish minister, José Manuel Soria
Canaries celebrates
Greenpeace demands full protection The news that oil giant Repsol can no longer drill near Fuerteventura and Lanzarote has been seized on by Greenpeace to demand full protection for the waters off the Islands. The Canaries celebrated the announcement that the drilling licences, granted to Repsol by the Spanish government to search for oil off the coast of the eastern islands, officially expired in late March so no further exploratory tests can be carried out. This brings to an end the long and controversial dispute over oil prospecting in the islands. In January 2015, Repsol withdrew from the only drilling site it had commenced on after, according to the company, failing to find viable deposits of oil or gas. Several weeks earlier, the prospect-
Photo: Greenpeace
Financial scandal
Greenpeace activists called for the use of renewable energy
ing works had hit the international news when Greenpeace activists were involved in an ugly confrontation with the Rowan Renaissance drilling ship, with
one member of the environmental group being badly injured when a Spanish Navy patrol vessel apparently rammed the ecologists’ boat as it neared the ship.
Greenpeace is now calling for formal protection for the area to prevent any further attempts to use the sea around the Canaries for prospecting and asks that the waters off Fuerteventura and Lanzarote be designated a marine reserve for whales and dolphins. Apart from the possible environmental consequences, the drilling had also enraged political leaders in the Canaries due to the potential impact on the tourist industry. Additionally, the area in question is considered earthquake-prone and some experts worried about the effects of deepwater drilling there. Many islanders also staged demonstrations and followed the story with passionate interest. Continued on page two
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Protect our waters
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Repsol: Oil get my coat!
Continued from front page
Greed and immorality Continued from front page PSOE parliamentary spokesperson Antonio Hernando has called for a full investigation after allegations that Soria was an administrator for a Bahamas based company for several months in 1992, which is alleged to have carried out services for his family’s business; details of which have surfaced in the leak. Soria responded by stating: “I categorically deny that I have had anything to do with any such company in Panama.” A previously tight-lipped financial paradise, Panama has recently turned into a financial hell for some, as 11.5 million documents from Mossack Fonseca, one of their top law firms, were leaked over several months to German newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung. It’s the biggest disclosure in history, dwarfing Wikileaks, Offshore Secrets, the Luxembourg files and the Swiss (HSBC) files. In fact, it covers almost ten times as much data as the previous whistle-blowing leaks put together. The information names beneficiaries of hundreds of shell companies set up with the
Photo: Greenpeace
Environmental organisations such as Greenpeace became involved early on in the protest against the oil prospecting, and local groups collected over 200,000 signatures petitioning against the plans. These factors were largely ignored by Repsol and the Spanish government - who were hoping that a major find would ease Spain’s energy dependency – and they repeatedly stressed that drilling could return at any time under the terms of the licences until their expiry date. However, prospects of a healthy return of investment for Repsol were always low but they’ve now
Greenpeace v Authorities
A peaceful protest that escalated into an international storm
ended definitively, according to the government’s senior representative in the Islands. Enrique Hernández Bento stated that: “The oil firm is no longer entitled to carry out any further work even if it wishes to.” He also hinted that Repsol may face
The truth leaks out assistance of the legal firm from 1977 to the end of 2015, to help their rich and powerful clients avoid taxes. Whilst there is so far no indication that anything illegal has occurred, dodging tax is considered highly immoral even if it’s organised legitimately. The release of the papers apparently implicates a number of high-profile, world-renowned figures with questionable financial activities.
Panama’s offshore role After The Canal, the Panamanian business of creating offshore shell corporations to operate in no-tax or low-tax areas is its second biggest earner and brings in around $500 million (€438 million) a year, which is why Panama’s Chief of Staff Álvaro Alemán Healy is trying to disassociate his country from the scandal. He stated that “Panama is part of the story but not a major player.” Tax-avoidance is big business: Gabriel Zucman, of the University of California at Berkeley, estimated that $7.6 trillion, or eight percent of global household financial assets, is held in tax havens.
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government action for not fulfilling its part of the exploratory drilling contract. Sources say it had committed to carrying out drilling at two sites but only completed one and it may be subject to a financial penalty for non-completion.
Greenpeace’s Arctic Sunrise boat arrived in the Canaries in October 2014, to lend support to local initiatives, keep the pressure on the Spanish government, and campaign for renewable energy sources in the Canaries. In November 2014, the Spanish Navy was accused of deliberately ramming a Greenpeace dinghy as it tried to move alongside the drilling ship hired by Repsol to carry out explorations. An Italian woman fell into the sea and had to be airlifted to hospital with serious leg injuries. Greenpeace subsequently filed charges against the Navy.
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People implicated Names so far revealed include 12 links to heads of state or former heads of state. Political associates, ministers and elected officials abound; 140 politicians (and over 60 members of their families) from over 50 countries are on the list, including the father of the Prime Minister of Great Britain David Cameron and the ex-King of Spain’s sister the Duchess of Badajoz. The list continues to grow with pop stars, actors and sports personalities from all over the world and even touches foot-
ball’s world governing body FIFA and the Hillary Clinton election campaign.
Reaction The consequences are farreaching and are expected to increase the levels of transparency in financial transactions worldwide. It may even lead to widespread distrust and highlight the moral bankruptcy behind deregulated free market philosophies. At European levels there are even some who suggest that the scandal may affect the Brexit vote, although it is unclear in which direction.
The war between Greenpeace and the Spanish authorities escalated further when Madrid decided to impound the ecologists’ ship in Lanzarote days after the ugly incident with the Spanish Navy. Officials initiated formal proceedings against Greenpeace over what the government says was an attempt to board the vessel, calling it an “act of piracy”. Greenpeace replied that it was exercising its right to protect the environment and “would not be silenced” by bully-boy tactics. In January 2015, Repsol packed up its offshore drilling ship after admitting that the exploratory bores were unsuccessful.
Addressing the leak during a press conference, US President Barack Obama stated: “The laws are so poorly designed that they allow people, if they’ve got enough lawyers and enough accountants, to wiggle out of responsibilities that ordinary citizens have to abide by.”
Canarian corruption The biggest ever trial for political corruption at local government level in the Canaries recently came to an end in Tenerife, with a verdict expected to take some time due to the number of people involved.
Gran Canaria oil spill In April 2015, a Russian fishing freighter with nearly 1,500 tons of fuel oil onboard was towed out to sea after suffering a major fire in the port of Las Palmas. The authorities opted not to risk a serious incident, particularly the possibility of an explosion, and ordered the vessel to be taken out to sea to allow the blaze to burn itself out. However, the ship began to list after two days and sank at a spot around 40 miles off Gran Canaria. The resulting oil spill affected local wildlife and Gran Canaria’s southern coastline, fuelling the argument of potential oil damage n to our shores.
Known as the Arona Case, the marathon trial has seen a total of 13 of the area’s politicians, council officials and prominent businessmen in the dock for allegedly colluding to approve planning permissions for projects known to be illegal. According to the prosecution, massive sums of money (up to 25 per cent of the cost of a project) changed hands in return for over 200 irregular approvals over a period of more than a decade. Several of the defendants are said to have also conspired to “fix” council contracts and ensure they were granted to friendly firms in exchange for n kickbacks.
Sisterly love
LocalXpress hits the streets Island Connections has a new sister newspaper, adding to the family of Foreign Language News’ multilingual publications. The first edition of LocalXpress – a Spanish-language monthly newspaper – came out at the end of March, alongside the fortnightly release of both Island Connections and the German-language Kanaren Express. All three publications cover news, events, sports and special features for the Canary Islands. Be sure to pick up a copy soon. n
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“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.
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Awareness Day
Acknowledging autism World Autism Awareness Day is marked annually on April 2, and was recently acknowledged by friends and families of people with autism in Tenerife, as well as various islandbased parents’ associations such as ALDIS and APANATE, which held various events and workshops. World Autism Day was designated as such by the United Nations General Assembly at the end of 2007, and there are many celebrations and activities that take place globally on the date. “Autism knows no geographic boundaries and affects individuals and families on every continent, in every country”, said Suzanne Wright, co-founder of Autism Speaks. According to the organisation, autism now affects one in 68 children and one in 42 boys. “The celebration of World Autism Awareness Day is an important way to help people understand the scope of this health crisis and the need for compassion and acceptance for those living with autism”, Wright added. n
Families and local associations marked World Autism Awareness Day on April 2
The Canarian model
Politician outlines Euro vision At the Premium Atlantic Forum recently held at the Grand Hotel Mencey in Santa Cruz, former Justice Minister Alberto Ruiz Gallardón praised the Canary Islands for their important role in the “common Spanish project”. “The Canaries, with its cultural and historical love for its roots, combines these traditions with an exemplary loyalty to the shared vision of Spain, where there exists a defence of Spanish common interest. For this reason, the Islands act as an important role model”, he added, while pointing a finger at Catalonia for its frequent push to hold a referendum on independence. “It is irresponsible for them to mislead people that this is a possibility”, Ruiz Gallardón stated. “Catalonia is not a former colony; it
Buenos Aires government CC A 2.0 GL
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Former Justice Minister Alberto Ruiz Gallardón praised the “Canarian model”
is an integral part of the constitution and Spain as a nation. The European Union would not allow such a separation, furthermore, nor could Catalonia survive on its own two feet.” Ruiz Gallardón called on the Canaries to take advantage of its geographical location between the Americas, Africa and Europe and establish itself
as the principle hub between the continents. The Partido Popular (PP) politician also called on Europe to intervene and invest in the economic development of North Africa: “Europe cannot continue, if it doesn’t want to jeopardise the long-term prosperity and civilised life enjoyed here, if it isolates itself like an island and remains surrounded by poor countries on every side. The migrant situation will never stop. As we know from history, walls and fences are not a solution either.” The Spanish ex-minister also sees the development of Latin America as a valuable partner: “They share a common language and hold enormous opportunities, especially with Argentina, Colombia and Cuba enjoying an economic
upturn and progressive journey towards more democratically-minded systems”. “Europe is more than a geographical and political union with a common currency; it also holds the same values of democracy, tolerance, liberty and respect for human rights, with a clear set of moral principles that need to be upheld. These are exactly the pillars of freedom that terrorist groups choose to attack. For this reason we need comprehensive cooperation between European authorities to combat the risk.” Ruiz Gallardón also warned against the UK’s possible withdrawal from the EU, believing that the Union would be stronger with Britain’s participation instead of, as he sees it, weakening both territories. n
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Legends Live
Alan Parsons: the man and his music Alan Parsons Live Project comes to Tenerife in late April with tickets still available to see the musical journeyman perform in concert. The Alan Parsons Project was a British progressive rock band founded in 1975. Parsons was a successful producer and engineer who was involved in the production of several significant rock albums, including the Beatles’ Abbey Road and Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon – for which the band credited him as an important contributor. Popular albums include: Eye in the Sky, Tales of Mystery and Imagination, Pyramid and Vulture Culture. Since 1993, a version of the band called Alan Parsons Live Project has toured with Parsons singing and playing acoustic guitar and keyboards. The group performs in Tenerife on April 22, and Island Connections spoke with Alan Parsons as he prepares for the Canarian dates of his current world tour: You’re often called the man with the golden touch: what is the secret to being one of the best music producers in the world? I can only say that I am very fortunate to have a gift for music, and it’s a talent that has brought me fantastic experience. There are many years of hard work and dedication involved too. Yes, I have a good ability to unearth the right sound but it takes a lot of skill and effort to make it perfect. As a world-renowned producer and admired for your studio
work, how does that convert to your role as a live musician? They’re not polar opposites and I enjoy both the studio and the stage equally. I’m also lucky that I have a fantastic band
time we were here, including PJ Olson, Alastair Green, Dany Thompson and Todd Cooper. The concert is effectively a greatest hits show, featuring Eye in the Sky, Don’t Answer
Well, that’s what I wanted to ask; can you tell when a track is studio-produced or self-produced? Yes, it’s very easy to tell. I know that musicians or ama-
one person is great at playing, writing, producing, engineering and mixing. Even great solo artists rely on the skills and experience of others, and professionally-produced and
Alan Parsons Live Project performs in Tenerife on April 22
Legends Live began with UB40 in March and the Alan Parsons Live Project follows in April. The series of shows continues with Jethro Tull on May 20; Alpha Blondy on July 9; and Earth, Wind & Fire on October 21. The other concerts for September and November have yet to be confirmed. All shows will take place in the auditorium of the Pirámide de Arona in Playa de Las Américas and concerts will be preceded by a Canarian support band of the same musical style as the headline act. The venue seats 1,500 people and spectators will enjoy a unique opportunity to see artists that perform nostalgia tours.
Parsons is a successful producer who worked on Abbey Road and The Dark Side of the Moon Alan Parsons sings and plays acoustic guitar and keyboards on tour
behind me that cover up my shortcomings as a musician! It does seem like you have a good time on stage and that comes across to the audience... Yes, I hope so. I do love performing in concert, and if you ask any musician they will always say the same. We all have a great time, especially when you feel the crowd appreciating you. Tell us about the band you’re bringing to the island and type of show fans can expect… We’re an eight-piece along with a team of sound engineers. I think many of them are the same members that played with me in Tenerife the last
ends Live, a promotion company that is presenting a series of seven concerts by classic groups from the 70s, 80s and 90s taking place in Tenerife throughout this year.
Me and all the tracks we think most fans want to hear. Music production has changed a lot in the digital age and many people believe they can produce good music at home with a computer and appropriate software… But they can’t!
teur producers can make reasonable-sounding recordings at home, but it’s really not the same. I have always encouraged musicians and engineers to work together as much as possible, as it pools ideas and styles and throws up interesting insights you wouldn’t have otherwise considered. Also, no
sounding music is the work of a talented team, not just someone in their bedroom doing their best at wearing all the different caps.
Legends Live Alan Parsons Live Project in concert is organised by Leg-
Online booking Tickets for the series of concerts are available online at: www.legendslive.es and www. ticketbell.com. Also follow Legends Live on Facebook (Legends Live TF) and Twitter (legendslivetf) for updates and further information. n
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PROMOTION
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Exclusive interview “An esteemed colleague from Cologne, Professor Gunther Nogge, once told me that if zoos didn’t exist you would have to invent them quickly and I believe he was absolutely right in this regard”, Wolfgang Rades, Loro Parque’s new director, told us decisively. The biologist took over the reins of the Parque in December after Doctor Matthias Rein Schmidt returned to Germany for personal reasons. Matthias now heads the city zoo in Karlsruhe. Rades was head of the bird and nature zoo in Herborn between 2002 and 2011, taking over in that latter year as overall director. Meanwhile, he has been involved in the German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) and other international species conservation groups, which makes him ideally qualified for his new role. You have been very successful in Germany and strongly involved in NABU, what persuaded you to make the move to Tenerife?
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
The need for zoos It wasn’t a decision I took lightly because my job as the bird park manager in Herborn was very rewarding. I was torn.
the model species conservation commitment of one of the most attractive zoos to move in this direction.
example was the return of nine Lear’s Macaws to Brazil, which had been bred and raised in Loro Parque. Due to its great
is practiced in Loro Parque with, of course, much greater possibilities, and I stand fully behind it. The Senegalese ecol-
Wolfgang Rades particularly wanted to work with the orcas Morgan’s return to the wild would be a certain death sentence
Ultimately, and amongst other reasons, I was drawn to the job at Loro Parque because of the opportunity of working with the charismatic marine mammals, the diversity of the largest parrot collection in the world, and
Thanks to the Loro Parque Foundation, approximately $16 million (around €14 million) has flowed into international wildlife conservation programmes since its inception in 1994. The most recent
successes in breeding endangered species in Tenerife, in 2006 the Loro Parque Foundation received four examples of this critically endangered parrot species from the Brazilian government. To date, they have reared 36 chicks, which is the biggest breeding success in the world. Nine of the birds are now in the hands of Doctor Yara Barros, the Technical Director of Foz de Iguaçu and Juan Villalba Macias the coordinator of Bioparque M’Boricua. In 2001, there were only 242 Lear Macaws in the wild, today, also thanks to the Foundation’s commitment in financing information campaigns and breeding, there are about 1,200 examples. They have been downgraded from the ‘critically endangered’ level to ‘endangered’. Loro Parque had already succeeded in breeding the Spix’s Macaws. Great projects like this have motivated me to head up this new task in Tenerife. Today’s political climate is especially difficult because zoos are often discredited as animal welfare organisations bring the keeping of wild animals in captivity into question. How do you feel about this? The quote I mentioned from Professor Nogge probably answers that question. The Herborn Park where I recently worked followed the philosophy of allowing people natural contact with the animals in order to sensitise them to the necessity of protecting the environment. The same culture
ogist Baba Dioum once said: “At the end we will only preserve what we love. We only love what we understand, and we only understand what we are shown.” This is precisely the task of modern zoos. The earth’s population is exploding. Today around half of the population lives in cities, by 2050 it’s expected that the number will increase to 85 per cent. Often zoos are the only way people can experience being close to nature. Look at our dolphin show which is seen by millions of visitors annually. It encourages at least some to think about the 300,000 dolphins and other small cetaceans which are caught in the fisheries’ driftnets every year and die. Hopefully it means they are willing to pay a little more for those who still use traditional fishing methods and to protest against driftnet fishing or the brutal slaughter of around 25,000 examples every year in Japanese Taiji, Peru, Russia, Canada and the European Faroe Islands. In the spirit of ‘We only protect what we know’, zoos have an important educational task. The animals that live in captivity – where, contrary to all claims, they often live to be twice as old there as in nature - are ambassadors who waken mankind to their needs for their protection. Marine mammals such as dolphins and, especially orcas, are focal points which incite animal rights organisations to take actions against the zoos. What do you think? Speaking for myself, initially I was very sceptical about the issue of the orcas when I first visited Loro Parque, but I left totally fascinated. In 2013, I came here to assess the orca issue with Professor Dietmar
Todt, an independent scientist and equally dedicated NABU collaborator, and Heike Finke, the NABU representative for international species conservation. Many animal welfare organisations were then calling for the reintroduction of Morgan to the wild. We were warmly welcomed by Wolfgang Kiessling, founder and president of Loro Parque, and he gave us access to all relevant areas. There was an exemplary transparency. In June 2010 Morgan was found off the Dutch coast, close to death and weighing only 425 kilos. As a temporary solution she was accepted by the Harderwijk Dolfinarium and nursed back to health, her weight increasing to 850 kilos. A panel of independent experts decided that Morgan was not capable of surviving in the wild and the Dutch authorities asked Loro Parque to integrate the animal into the existing orca pod. That was quite a risk Loro Parque took for the female whale’s sake because at that time nobody knew how it would go. Morgan has lived in Tenerife since November 2011 and now weighs 2,250 kilos, though experts have found that she is hard of hearing. Morgan would have no chance in the wild. Is it caring in this case to leave her to certain death? Hardly! Of course, the keeping of wild animals in zoos is always a compromise. However, I can assure you that the orcas at Loro Parque are very healthy. Their water quality receives a lot more checks than normal human drinking water. Trainers keep the animals on the move daily from 8 am to 6pm. They have a balanced diet and exemplary veterinary and behavioural biology care. Many animal rights activists argue that those in the oceans travel up to 100 kilometres a day, but we know that resident fish-eating orcas, like men, will only do that when food is scarce. Also, for us, both the orca and dolphin shows have an important conservation-related content. For example, with the dolphins we explain how you should behave if you see a stranded animal – Using wet towels to prevent the animal from drying out and to make sure that the breathing hole remains uncovered. In the Canaries, this scenario is not that unlikely and the right conduct can save lives.
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Coincidentally, my first visit here overlapped with that of the New Zealand animal activist Doctor Ingrid Visser. Doctor Visser was once considered an orca expert, but seems to have left the area of serious science long ago, for her publications on the orca issue in Loro Parque were completely contrary to the objective knowledge we gained, and didn’t correspond to reality in any way. However, the marine biologist, author and whale expert Petra Deimer Schütte has often visited. She is the founder and long-time chairman of the Society for the Protection of Marine Mammals E.V. It is through her commitment that the Madeira archipelago was declared a protection zone for marine mammals and whaling was stopped. They advocate the kind of orca stance that Loro Parque has and I once asked her what she thinks of the Orca show. She replied “I am always deeply impressed and get goose-bumps when I see how harmoniously the humans and animals interact here”. After receiving this confirmation directly from her, I don’t need anything else. Quite apart from the opportunity to see the orcas in such
close proximity, the scientific aspect is very important. We have gained many insights through these whales, which assist researchers in helping animals in the wild.
Nevertheless, animal rights groups such as PETA repeatedly criticise Loro Parque, SeaWorld and other institutions for keeping dolphins. What is your view? I believe that the so-called animal welfare associations are big business. Millions are collected in donations, highpaid jobs are awarded, and it’s only by fanning the flames that they get the cash in. Of course, that means that popular, large parks such as Loro Parque or SeaWorld get unwanted atten-
tion, but in terms of nature and species conservation other actions would be much more meaningful. I am an animal lover and a biologist and would be the
first to denounce something I believed was against animals’ welfare. However, in Loro Parque our marine mammals have the most modern conditions and we continue improving them. Based on studies, dolphins in captivity are nowadays often more than twice as old as their counterparts in the wild. Another problem that wild animals endure is overfishing and there are species such as the California harbour porpoise, of which there are only about 100 examples left, or
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the New Zealand Maui’s dolphins (around 45 left) which are really endangered, and who knows about it? There are currently around 600,000 ‘ordinary’ dol-
for years! And where are the animal rights for our pets and livestock? A horse, for example, is a herd creature which needs company and movement. In how many stables are these
lot of really meaningful protection projects could have been tackled with the $20 million!
A close relationship exists between the trainers and the orcas
Plastic pollution endangers half of all marine organisms
phins, which means they are not in a threatened category. The ocean orca population is approximately 50,000 strong. Why don’t activists care about those animals that live in the wild and are acutely threatened? Because they would not get as much attention by doing so. Zoo-bullying is popular and lucrative for the organisations. People read lurid depictions on social networks and suddenly they are orca ‘experts’ who think they understand better than the scientists, veterinarians and trainers who have worked with them
animals kept alone all day? Yet no one gets upset. Thanks to animal rights activists, the famous orca from Free Willy, Keiko, was returned to the sea after the filming, in a complex project on which nearly $20 million (about €17.5m) were spent. He couldn’t make a viable connection with the wild whales, repeatedly sought human contact and died a few months after his release, lonely and immune-suppressed from pneumonia, in a Norwegian fjord. If he hadn’t been freed he might be still alive, and a
What is your personal assessment of the wave of accusations? I know that in Loro Parque everything possible is done to accommodate the animals and we constantly improve their living conditions. We employ three veterinarians and two lab biologists who continually monitor the health of our animals. Good zoos may also be the last chance for the preservation of some species worldwide. Look at the successful reintroduction and recovery of stocks in nature with species such as the American and European bison, the Przewalski horse, the red wolf, the Arabian oryx or the California condor. For a zoo like Loro Parque, which is one of the best and most modern in the world, I think that the hostility is caused by the pure money-making desire of the self-proclaimed animal rights activists. Mr Rades, we hope that you will integrate easily into your new Tenerife ‘territory’ and enjoy your new professional n challenge.
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Promotion
Plenty to crow about! By Theresa Willson savoury breads, through soups, Those who love chicken will appreciate the Kikiriki restaurant. The well-established eatery serves superb grilled and roast meat dishes, as well as fish, seafood and vegetarian options, while their most popular range is the chicken – hence the restaurant name, which in English translates to Cock-a-doodle-doo. Kikiriki first opened in Cabo Blanco in 1998 and has grown from strength to strength ever since. The client-base is mostly British and Northern European, demonstrating that Antonio and Carmens’ business strikes a chord with the most demanding and passionate chickenlovers on the island. From Cabo Blanco the restaurant moved to the Apolo Center in Los Cristianos and within a short time changed again to even bigger premises on the front line of the same centre, where they can cater for up to 80 guests. Kikiriki has a friendly family atmosphere, with a light, airy terrace fitted with comfortable chairs and screened with plants. The atmosphere becomes busy after sunset, to the backdrop of the chink of knives and forks and the buzz of happy chatter and satisfied customers. Inside, the warm tones provide an intimate atmosphere, with the tables dressed in red and white, and a sense of privacy for romantic dining. Kikiriki’s speciality may be chicken, but there is an amazing choice right across the menu, from six types of
mel with cream and walnuts, chocolate mousse, a lemon cake and an almond cake: truly scrumptious. Beers, soft drinks and spirits are available from the well-
crispy salads, meat, fish, shellfish, to various other delicious options which include gratinated spinach cream, puff pastry with spinach and blue cheese and onion cake with smoked salmon. There are also 23 different pizzas to choose from, and to round off your
Antonio with guests The owners of Kikiriki
meal, irresistible homemade desserts which are displayed for you to admire, select and devour! Suckling pig and succulent roast lamb are also available at Kikiriki, although they are not listed on the menu, so be sure to ask one of your welcoming waiters. On the day we visited, we started with the gratinated spinach cream, which was warm with fresh ground black pepper and sprinkled with enough cheese to add a little piquancy. The chicken, which had been spit roasted, had previously been dunked in Kikiriki’s secret marinade mixture, and then basted with
the mix and its own juices. The result is crisp skin, succulent meat and a taste sensation that will make you wish for more. Like all the main course meat and fish dishes it comes with a choice of wrinkled Canarian potatoes, chips or thick slices of potato fried with garlic, not to mention a choice of sauces. The Hot tomato is exactly what it says on the label – abundant with chillies and garlic. The pepper sauce is creamy and contains crushed and whole peppers. The Roquefort is a light creamy sauce with a strong hint of that fabulous cheese: the perfect accompaniment for meat. Last, but certainly not least, the house sauce, Kikiriki, is a delicious, slightly sweet, and almost fruity blend of fresh tomatoes with cream
and tarragon. In these days of mass production, it is quite amazing to taste such a wonderful selection of obviously homemade sauces! We recommend you try to save room for dessert (easier said than done!). The choice when we visited was a creme cara-
stocked bar, with San Miguel on draught and Reina, Heineken and Dorada beers available by the bottle. Wines can be bought by the bottle, carafe or glass.
Restaurante Kikiriki C.C. Apolo Center. Los Cristianos Tel: 647 955 831/ 922 753 074 Open: Tuesday to Saturday 5pm to 11pm Sunday 1pm to 11pm There’s a careful selection in addition to the house wines, with some old favourites and plenty of great choices such as Ribera del Duero. Some wines are available off the list for a limited period. Many clients visit the restaurant regularly; some have been enjoying the food since the Cabo Blanco days, and it’s the unique brand of value and quality that brings them back time and again. Kikiriki is a great place to go to with family and friends as the food is excellent, the service is second to none, and it’s also great value for money, especially with the 40 per cent discount off the menu on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays! Visit this restaurant soon, you’ll no doubt want to make it one of your regulars too. To make life easy, there’s a car park at the Apolo Center and a bus stop right outside. Kikiriki really has n plenty to crow about!
La Palmas larceny
Triana shops demand more policing Stores in one of the busiest shopping areas in Las Palmas have slammed the city authorities for not taking policing more seriously despite the recent spate of robberies in the area. Traders in the bustling Triana district of the capital say the council should do more
to ensure a much more visible police presence to deter wrongdoers. “It is inconceivable that the authorities are ignoring repeated demands to resolve the growing problem of robberies in our area, which is one of the flagship shopping districts in Gran Canaria, not just Las Palmas. The National
Police cannot cover everywhere on its own and Las Palmas Council needs to supplement it with officers from its own force” said the traders’ association, which has already written to the Spanish Interior Ministry’s senior representative in the Canaries to voice n its concern.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Merkel in La Gomera
A prize visit By Barbara Belt by bad weather. While north- which give it its Hotel Jardín charged for her stay, though has been received as a divine 2014 already constituted fiftyern Europe enjoyed an unseasonal 21˚C, Merkel shivered in Ischia’s 12 degrees. Not that La
Tecina name. Its sports facilities, swimming pools, décor, chalet style rooms,
we imagine that the twelve German bodyguards and fifteen Guardia Civil accompanying
blessing by local authorities”, gushed national press. “It would have been impossible for the island’s twenty thousand inhabitants to fund such an effective publicity campaign reaching eighty million Germans. Media focused on the
four per cent of the island’s tourism, a percentage that has likely increased since. The German economy’s relatively buoyant and there’s an increasing unwillingness on behalf of holidaymakers to risk decapitation, bombs and other incon-
Photo: diariofemeninio.com
German chancellor Angela Merkel recently left La Gomera after spending Easter at Playa Santiago’s Hotel Tecina. This is the fourth time that Merkel who, according to Forbes, “…is the most powerful woman in the world”, has spent Easter on La Gomera since becoming chancellor. In fact, from the time in the 1970s when she first came with her parents, she has made innumerable visits. Ms Merkel “loves walking the island’s hiking trails”, and walking in general. She traversed part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim route with Spanish leader Rajoy in Galicia in 2014. She also “enjoys La Gomera’s scenery and peace” and is partial to island specialities like watercress soup. Apparently creatures of habit, Merkel and husband, Professor Joachim Sauer, prefer repeat holidays. The Chancellor and her spouse have spent all their Easters on the Mediterranean island of Ischia, near Naples, for over a decade, apart from in 2008, 2010, 2011 and this year, when they came to La Gomera. They stay at the same hotels. In Ischia, it’s the five-star Miramare Spa Hotel on the south of the island, which has a private beach and boasts the Aphrodite Apollon Thermal Gardens Spa Centre, with twelve thermal pools, a naturally heated sauna, and a gym. Spending this Easter in La Gomera may have been prompted by last year’s stay in Ischia, which was blighted
Angela Merkel and husband Joachim Sauer
The photo that went out as being La Gomera, though is actually Ischia
Gomera’s Tecina isn’t attractive in itself: built and owned by the Fred Olsen shipping company, the hotel’s in a cliff-top position overlooking the sea and village of Playa Santiago. It’s set in lush subtropical gardens,
pool bar and beachside Club Laurel with pool, restaurant and bar reached by an extraordinary lift shaft cut into the cliff, are all well worth a visit. The Tecina declined to say if the Chancellor was actually
the couple were. Merkel’s stay has delighted nearly everyone. It’s created a lot of high profile publicity for both the island and hotel. “The promotional impact of the visit by such an important figure as Merkel
holiday destination chosen by the country’s leader…” The fifty-seven thousand Germans who visited the island in
veniences whilst holidaying further afield. “This visit is very important, with unprecedented repercus-
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
sions in the media” emphasises Island Council head Casimiro Curbelo, now squeaky clean and pronouncing on all fronts after island-wide amnesia about his previous sleaze episode as ‘Sauna Boy’ and the miraculous disappearance of pending corruption charges. Before the visit, Curbelo announced that: “The Chancellor will be well received, as usual, and will be presented with publications on island flora and fauna”. He hoped “she’ll be able to do everything she wants without being bothered”.
ism-sensitive, atmosphere of secrecy and protection forced frustrated national, and international, media to use photos of the couple in Ischia to illustrate news stories from La Gomera, so elusive were they. Naughty press. On previous visits, Merkel and spouse strolled by the beach in Playa Santiago, shared the pool with fellow guests, walked the island’s hiking trails with other tourists (the paths were closed for them this year) ate in local restaurants and were generally out and about being seen.
appearances at local supermarkets” and “simple tastes”, despite earning €270,396 gross annual salary, more than any other European leader.
couple’s normal hiking and sightseeing activities were shrouded in secrecy. They were whisked away from the hotel entrance every morning,
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Guardia Civil Traffic vehicles escorted Merkel on every inch of every journey. Nothing was left to chance in the light of recent terrorism
Refugees: “She should go to Lesbos if she wants to see an island! How cynical, going on holiday to distract her conscience from the suffering of
Photo: Canarias Welcomes Refugees
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
Marina Delgado from Refugees Welcome explaining her dismay at Merkel’s visit
hidden in the back of a large white car with dark windows. The entire coastline was kept under surveillance by GEAS (sub-aqua special agents), and a TEDAX, anti-explosives team was installed in the hotel.
The Hotel Jardín Tecina (photos: Fred.Olsen)
He need not have worried as there wasn’t the slightest possibility this year of Merkel being seen, let alone bothered, by anyone. The new, terror-
Merkel’s disdain for pomp is well-known in Germany, typified by her refusal to move into the official chancellor’s residence, her “unassuming
This is clearly enough for coffees all round, but this time nobody even saw her relaxing or eating out in Playa Santiago. “We’re a bit disappointed. She’s usually very low key, but it’s all gone a bit James Bond this time”, said local shop owner Teresa, echoed by customers. As this was a private visit, official welcomes were inappropriate, but strict security protocols were decided on during two months of preparatory meetings between the Guardia Civil, local council and the hotel. The only special request made by Merkel was for the presence of the German-speaking Guardia Civil agent based on the island, who’s been part of her team on previous visits. Merkel’s sea view balcony at the hotel was screened; the
and, perhaps, growing unpopularity around her immigration policies. Not everyone on the island was thrilled she was here, however. Over to Marina Delgado spokesperson for Canaries Welcomes
refugees. La Gomera’s history of emigration makes it impossible to welcome Merkel here. She’s just signed an illegal agreement to deport war refugees, who’re suffering the results of that while she’s on holiday!” n
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Star tourism
Gilliam’s Quixote filming in the Canaries
Spanish national hero Don Quixote and his companion Sancho Panza on a monument in Madrid, with author Miguel de Cervantes in the background
The Canaries are back in the film industry news following the announcement that the islands have been chosen as the location for the shooting of a movie based on one of the most famous works in world literature. Screenwriter, film director and actor, Terry Gilliam - best known as a member of the Monty Python comedy team - has confirmed that he is to begin recording scenes for The man who killed Don Quixote in Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura in mid-September. The news is the latest coup for the Canarian authorities, who have devoted considerable efforts
to enticing production companies to the islands with generous tax incentives and assistance with identifying suitable locations. It is expected that Gilliam and his crew will spend up to four weeks in the Islands to shoot the scenes of a film that has been many years in the making but has been plagued by hitches, including the loss of the set and equipment due to flooding over a decade ago. According to media reports, actors John Hurt and Jack O’Connell are to play the parts of the deluded Don Quixote and his trusty squire, n Sancho Panza.
Canarian president gets Guardian coverage The president of the Canaries enjoyed rare international coverage recently with an extensive interview in the UK’s Guardian newspaper, although its publication has not been devoid of controversy. The appearance of the interview with Fernando Clavijo in the ‘Paid Content’ section triggered calls in some quarters for the regional government to reveal how much the coverage had cost, but officials have given assurances that the interview was “not paid for in any way or form”. “The interview was organised by an agency that provides content to the newspaper but I can state with certainty that neither the agency nor the paper received money from us” said the Canarian government’s communications chief José Luis Méndez. Clavijo used the opportunity to outline how the government has reduced the Islands’ debt since taking up office and to set out its policy on tourism, particularly the drive to attract upmarket holidaymakers. “We are encouraging luxury tourism to attract visitors who will stay longer and spend more. In order to do that, we have to come up with an attractive offer in terms of food, shopping, specialised tours and so on. We need to offer excellence. We are aware that wars and conflict in competing destinations are bringing us added tourists, but once that trouble is over we will lose some share because we cannot compete with those nations on prices or wages. So we have to differentiate ourselves in order to attract visitors who are willing to pay the extra money, knowing that they are going to be in a safe environment here, plus they are going to have a range of cultural, gastronomic and shopping options. And if they have a health emergency, there is a system in place that is going to respond” said the president. Clavijo also stressed the longstanding ties between the Canaries and Britain, which date back to the 1700s when the Islands exported wine and cochineal to Britain. n
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Promotion
Forever Fitness Studio Denise works mainly on renting out apartments for owners at Santa María, providing a full and thorough management service. She has built herself a solid reputation and customer base, and is highly recommended by her existing clients. Always in contact with the Tourist Board, she is fully up to date with current holidaylet laws and in a good position to advise her customers. Over the last year the business has grown so much that she is now
Denise would also like to be able to offer Zumba, Yoga, TaiChi, Reiki, maybe a Karate
to give your own business a kick-start! The very back of the premises is already used
Owner Denise outside her two businesses The studio has been fitted with fitness equipment, mirrors and mats
The Santa María Estate Agency and adjacent Forever Fitness Studio are located near the main road which runs through Torviscas Bajo in Costa Adeje, just off the lane which leads to the Santa María Aparthotel. Though seemingly disparate, these two businesses complement each other perfectly. Owner Denise Hammonds began her estate agency business by working from home, until she realised that not being ‘out there’ was limiting her potential. She had also been feeling a little below par, but recovered her own fitness, energy and zest for life by using the Forever Living products based on Aloe Vera, which she was already working with. The completely natural Forever Living range has been particularly successful in the UK, and there is huge potential for it here in Tenerife. Denise keeps a wide variety of the products in stock, and is also in the process of creating
Denise keeps a good range of Forever Living products in stock
club for children, dance and other classes. For this, she invites any qualified instructors, trainers or practitioners in these disciplines who would like to use the area, to contact her. You never know, this could be just what you need a distribution team. She is a firm believer in their value, and a number of people suffering from chronic health problems say they have vastly improved or cured their conditions. Denise had had her eye on these particular premises for some time, so when they became available she decided to take the plunge. They had previously been used as a club, so plenty of work was needed to divide the space available into a front office for her estate agency business and to create a fitness studio at the rear. She opened the estate agency office in March 2015, and since then she hasn’t looked back.
considering employing a housekeeper to take care of the cleaning, laundry and maintenance generated by the rentals. Denise also works with two other estate agencies and has clients looking to buy and sell properties throughout Costa Adeje. She has regular help with the running of the office, so that frees her time for what she loves doing the most: helping others. With the fitness studio, Denise originally wanted to do something for the Tenerife based charity Helping Hands, which supports and raises funds for under privileged children, but she needed to get herself fit first. She started off by going to a Zumba class, and found that the young man who was running it was willing to come to her premises and run a charity Zumbathon. From this very successful event, the idea of the fitness studio as it is now was born. Denise has been busy equipping it with mats, mirrors, storage areas, lighting, a multi-gym, weights, a treadmill and crossfit, and there’s still plenty more to come. Clients can use the facilities for a very reasonable price with no hidden extras. Right at the back of the premises is a treatment room and a large walk-in shower. There is also a kitchen area where fresh and fruity smoothies can be prepared for your enjoyment.
as the base for Mina’s Nails and Beauty Room. As well as manicures, pedicures, Shellac nails, eyebrows, party lashes, evening or daytime make-up, Mina also offers massages and facials, and she currently has a special deal available of two treatments for only €40. Spring is well and truly here: the perfect time to concentrate on fitness and form, ahead of the summer. Why not visit the Forever Fitness Studio, where you can work out at your own pace, take a shower afterwards, partake of a smoothie and maybe even have your nails done or a relaxing massage while you’re there. This is fitness in every n sense of the word!
The Santa María Estate Agency and Forever Fitness Studio Avenida España, Torviscas Bajo · Costa Adeje Tel: (0034) 922 702 465 or 662 117 643 Email: marigoldtf@hotmail.com Facebook: Santa Maria Tenerife Holiday
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Street art
From comedy to photography Photos: © Anthony Vernolini
always trying to get the right picture with exposure, composition, and with only 36 goes and one film to capture it; now you can rattle off 150 frames in 15 seconds and just delete what you don’t like!”
raphy can be a little problematic because you want to catch a moment in a stranger’s life that they might not want photographed, so you have to be charming too – which is where the comedy comes in handy!”
Anthony’s main profession is as a stand-up comedian
Anthony likes to capture aspects of the street, whether people or places Anthony’s powerful image of a homeless man
Anthony Vernolini has lived in Tenerife since 1998, building up a name as a popular standup comedian and devising a Billy
Connolly tribute show that packs in the crowds – however, his recent foray into photography is earning him a whole new audience.
Anthony studied the art form at the London College of Print and his father was a professional photographer, however,
he lost interest when everything became digital: “Anyone can pick up a camera, point it and there you have it! I was
Anthony started to feel the urge again while looking at street photography by Yousuf Karsh, who he describes as the master. “I really wanted to pick up the camera again and start shooting so I went out and took a few pictures; including two homeless men from El Médano. They are very interesting gentlemen with fantastic faces; fortunately they were obliging enough to let me photograph them. Street photog-
Anthony performs comedy shows in South Tenerife and on cruise ships, as well as his annual appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, under the name Anthony Scott. Anthony Vernolini’s photography page can be found at: www. facebook.com/Anthony-Vernolini-478283322378030. For information on his comedy, visit: www.facebook.com/AnthonyScott-294031117012. n
La Laguna troubles
‘Ageing’ university asks for funding L a L a g u n a U n i v e r s i t y ’s financial worries continue with the news that it needs to find €16 million for urgent repairs to its buildings.
The university authorities have written to the government of the Canaries to outline its pressing need to invest heavily in bringing its infrastructures up to standard, including for
safety reasons. Vice-chancellor Antonio Martinón outlined the series of measures that will have to be taken to a University council meeting and said that the money was badly needed to
update not just a number of old buildings but also for essential maintenance such as rewiring of electrical installations. La Laguna, which has fared badly in the latest Spanish
higher education league table, is considered old not only in terms of its buildings. The recent national study revealed that it has one of the lowest proportions of lecturers and
researchers under 35 (two per cent) and the highest percentage of staff aged 60 and above (20 per cent, compared to the national average of 13 n per cent).
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Splashy, messy mayhem
Fabulously fun Festival of Colours and bags of coloured powder to hurl at passersby! Proceeds made during the day will go to various social causes. Fañabé’s heaving plaza set the stage for the afternoon’s rev-
rhythms for the hordes that arrived. This wasn’t a festival to wear your best clothes
filled balloons into the crowd of messy, giggling partygoers. Anyone and everyone is fair
on April 3 at midday. There were stalls selling traditional Indian foods, drinks, souvenirs
for! Even curious bystanders, seemingly unaware of the event beforehand and merely
An abundant supply of the liquid was on hand, useful for splashing a nearby stranger or
observing from the sidelines, were thrust into the fray. If you go to a Holi celebration, you will be approached – and those advancing are likely to be brandishing coloured powder, water or both. Similarly, you will get drenched – there’s just no avoiding it! Curious groups nearing the plaza were daubed and splashed as soon as they stepped one foot into the unofficial watery-war zone.
reloading your water gun, and organisers stood in the centre of the plaza with hoses, drenching anyone within range! Adults and children alike adored the splashy, messy mayhem of it all. Well done to the organisers for putting on a great afternoon of not-so-clean fun and introducing a Hindu cultural event n to many new people. Unless otherwise stated, photos by Lee Bullen
Photo: ©Gerard Zenou 634 173 766
game; friend or stranger, man or woman, adult or child! The event was organised by the Hindu Association of South Tenerife along with the Adeje borough council and took place
Photo: ©Gerard Zenou 634 173 766
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is a spring celebration practiced by Hindus around the world. In the south of Tenerife, this year’s Holi Festival was staged at the main square in Fañabé, and thousands turned up to revel in the colour, music and high jinx. Holi is an important cultural and social event and is primarily practiced in India and Nepal. In recent years the festival has spread to other parts of the world as a spring celebration signifying love, fun and colour. It is a free-for-all party where participants chase and paint each other with coloured powder and water. Some carry water guns and hurl water-
elry, which lasted until 6pm, and DJ’s, singers and performers provided pulsating
Youtuber upsets parents
Paedophile jokes prove costly A famous Spanish Youtuber and blogger could be in hot water after his controversial children-geared show in a Tenerife theatre triggered a flood of complaints due to explicit
sexual references, including to paedophilia. Ismael Prego, who goes by the name of Wismichu on his sites, stunned the Guimerá Theatre in Santa Cruz with multiple refer-
ences to child sex and simulations of anal penetration and masturbation. The string of blue jokes and other sexual references proved embarrassing for accompanying teachers, including
Elena de la Rosa, who is quoted in one paper as saying she had “never heard anything like it in all her life”. One mother of a 10year-old child complained that a clear warning should have been
inserted on the tickets for the show. The outcry sparked by the explicit content has since led several theatres in Spain to cancel Prego’s show, which is on a nationwide tour.
In Tenerife, Santa Cruz council has formally asked the Prosecution Service to investigate whether the Youtuber committed an offence by, in its words, n glorifying paedophilia.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Mercadona’s success concept
Multi-million payout to employees While some European supermarket chains have allowed themselves to fall into disrepute with their reduced wages and poor working conditions, the Spanish Mercadona group has chosen another approach. The company’s unusual – especially in this day and age - method is based on the following belief: that to be more productive, you don’t have to cut back wages. In fact, last year, a total of €277 million was distributed to employees for having met objectives, as part of the company’s profitsharing scheme: a move which benefited 98 per cent of the workforce. Depending on seniority, employees who had already worked for the company for at least four years received the equivalent of an extra two months’ salary. Around 90 per cent of the staff force falls into this category (who earn on average €1,630 net a month), whilst a thousand workers who recently joined the company began with a starting salary of around €1,109 net. Apparently, profits are distributed in a recognisable pattern: Around 40 per cent is reinvested, a quarter is discharged as tax, about 10 per cent is paid out as dividends, and a quarter is rerouted to employees. Since Mercadona introduced this principle in 2001, over €2.5 billion have apparently been passed on to the workers. Using the system, the individual and collective commitment of the employees is rewarded,
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Mercadona wants its customers and employees to be satisfied
and the staff receive encouragement to achieve the company’s goals.
Family friendliness Juan Roig, son of the founders of Mercadona, is the current president of the chain. He told the Spanish news agency Efe that the company’s profitsharing approach contributes greatly to its success: during 2015, the company invested €651 million and its sales volume grew by five per cent. It also paid tax and social security contributions of €1,497 million and has been steadily growing over the past 15 years. For instance, compared with
the previous year, the annual turnover in 2015 increased by about three per cent to almost €21 billion. And it’s not just those higher up who benefit: In the lower wage groups, salaries were increased by 11 per cent last year, benefiting 8,150 of the roughly 75,000 employees of Mercadona throughout Spain. The group also ensures that wages for both men and women are on a par - approximately 66 per cent of the employees are women - and value is placed on the ability to combine work and family lives. Hence, shifts are flexible, there are reduced hours for mothers with children under ten years of age,
and there’s special leave available for the care of offspring under eight years old. As a rule, Sunday is not a working day, benefitting the family lives of employees, the only exceptions being when there are consecutive bank holidays. Since 2005, expectant mothers have also been offered the possibility of maternity leave of 30 days in addition to the usual four months. During the last year, 2,769 women took advantage of this option, and over 15,630 employees chose a shorter working week. The concept does indeed seem to work for the group: Motivated employees are more satisfied, take less time off due to ill health, have a friendly approach with customers and colleagues and – ultimately create greater profits.
Rewarded for loyalty
Police dog retirement celebration
La Laguna’s most famous police dog has received a big send-off from the city’s force and the local community. German Shepherd Lala was the star attraction at the K9 Unit’s most recent outreach activity in the heritage city and her handler revealed that she was stepping down after nearly a decade on the beat. The occasion was considered so important that the Official Language School organised a competition to produce a suitable ‘Thank you Lala’ retirement card, with farewell messages written entirely in English. “She is very clever and not only reads English but is very particular about spelling mistakes” joked officer Pilar Thadani. The police dog is moving from her doggie quarters to the home of her long-time handler to see out n her remaining years, a police spokesperson said.
Photo: Neilson Mc Skelly/freeimages.com
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Giving in kind Juan Roig stated in his recent annual accounts report that if the customer is satisfied, sales increase, which in turn means greater growth and shared profits. But it isn’t all about revenue. More than 10.6 billion kilos or litres of goods were sold during 2015, but products which are not consumed do not go to waste: they are delivered nationwide to 100 soup kitchens and 55 food banks. Mercadona donated approximately 4,200 tons of food last year in this way. Speaking about the future, Roig stated that: “Our primary goal for 2016 is to exceed the
Many German Shepherds work as part of police operations in the Canary Islands
expectations of our customers, to continue delivering an excellent service, and to introduce satisfying innovations. Cooperation and learning from mistakes should help us to develop an ever more efficient and productive system. We want Mercadona to be a model company that is both wanted and appreciated. And I want to thank all our employees for their commitment.” Satisfaction of custom-
ers, employees and suppliers alike is one of the main aims to be fulfilled: Best quality produce, preferably from the individual local regions; innovative products; and the lowest possible prices. Along with increasing their current 14.7 per cent market share even further. Approximately five million Spanish households already shop at Mercadona, and they n can’t all be wrong!
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Litter-ally shocking!
Photo: Keattikorn freedigitalphotos.net
I have just returned to England after enjoying four weeks in Los Cristianos. Not having been to Tenerife for many years I was pleasantly surprised at the investment and excellent landscaping in the whole area. There is only one major problem being caused by travel and excursion companies: I’m shocked at the amount of littering they do around town, maybe even in other towns and some of the other islands? Their magazines and publicity are litter-ally everywhere (pardon the pun). How they are allowed to get away with spoiling the resort is quite simply beyond me. Why aren’t they made to have offices/kiosks similar to other, possibly more reputable, tour companies? Maybe it’s acceptable to have something left on a very occasional street corner and no more, but whilst on holiday walking towards the bus station on Avenida Juan Carlos I counted 50, yes 50, piles of the stuff in a distance of about 100 metres. Much of it was blowing about and spoiling the area. I have since videoed the mess and intend to send a copy to the Arona tourist board. I have rebooked for 2017, and I am hoping to see a change... Yours sincerely, Mr. Phil Holmes
Some holidaymakers want to see Los Cristianos cleaned up
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By
I hope you and yours are all well. It is soon going to be summer and, like many of us, I will soon be thinking about my diet to prepare for those sticky months and necessity for less clothing! In my case, I spend a lot of time thinking about a new regime but never seem to get around to actually doing it! I was recently reading the newspaper one afternoon and came across an article that stated that endocrinological studies show that dieting reduces the levels of hormones such as leptin. This is the one that helps to control food intake, and tells you when you’re full. Some people have better levels than others, the study showed. It was while reading this that I had a sudden insight into my own bad eating habits. I could now happily blame my bad leptin levels for all my extra pounds and carry blissfully on, or I could examine the problem properly. Personally, anyone can have my last penny, or the coat off my back, but when it comes to chocolate, in any of its many sinfully delicious disguises, I find myself fighting my inner demons to be generous. Needless to say, I often lose the battle! Then I realised, that the ‘full’ feeling we are all programmed genetically and hormonally to feel, and which I’ve always thought was lacking due to medical reasons, really does exist after all! My granddad loved boiled tripe and onions, and my nan cooked it for the family at least twice a week. Personally, I hated it. Likewise with brawn and cabbage, pig’s trotters in all their greasy glory, and partic-
y Kat
Hi everyone,
ularly pigeon pie. My granddad had an airgun which he took onto the moors near our
17
katykennedy@telefonica.net
me to reveal to myself that I’m just weak willed, and that I’ll probably be a chubby person
hash, that I can guarantee I’ll cook with flair! Yet on a serious note, some children, even those as young as ten, are being admitted to hospital with eating disorders like anorexia. The media is full of glamorous thin young icons, and both children and adults are feeling the pressure to look like they do. Some celebrities have surgery to have a gastric band fitted and lose a lot of kilograms to look good for the camera. But then I read of a 37-year-old mum of three who died having the same operation. She had hoped that losing weight would give her more energy to cope with her three young children. The old fashioned term, ‘moderation in all things’ has never seemed so relevant. As for me, well I’m trying to take myself in hand and have made my mind up to be sensible. At last I’ve made a start on the calorie-cutting mindset I need to have – I now leave the ice out of my Irish Cream! Until next time, take care of yourselves and especially of
Katy’s calorie-cutting regime consists of mostly leaving the ice out of her Irish Cream! Nan’s pigeon pie – complete with airgun pellets!
cottage and shot pigeons to use in the pie. My nan wasn’t a good pastry cook, and the crust was immense while the filling was a watery mess. We kids spent half the time picking pellets out of it, alongside the occasional feather. Isn’t it an eye opener when you finally realise how, faced with food you hate, that ‘full’ feeling arrives almost immediately? So my conscience has forced
Photo: Jessica Spengler CC A 2.0 GL
Letter to the editor
Photo: Own CC A-S A 3.0 UL
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
for the rest of my life. Give up egg and chips? It’s the one meal, apart from corned beef
each other. Send an email to: katykennedy@telefonica.net. Telephone: 616 110 930. n
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Hard Rock Cafe
Spicing things up Mexican style! Hard Rock Cafe Tenerife is heading to Central America for its latest menu innovation, offering a fine fiesta of fiery food! The international brand is turning things up a notch and paying homage to classic Mexican cuisine and cocktails as part of the new Taste of Mexico range. The limited-time, tasty menu will be available from May 2 to 31 only.
Hard Rock Cafe’s Taste of Mexico menu will feature fresh and cutting-edge dishes, including: • Yucatán Style Shrimp Ceviche. Steamed shrimp with lime, orange, avocado and cucumber served with yellow corn chips. • Crispy Shrimp with Aji Amarillo Sauce. Panko breaded shrimp topped with queso fresco, spicy pecans, coriander, green onions and feta
• Grilled Shrimp with Mexican Street Corn Salad. Annatto grilled shrimp with black beans, topped with pico de gallo, avocado, jalapenos and roasted corn served over spring mix and tossed with chilli vinaigrette and a drizzle of Aji Amarillo sauce. • Fiesta Chicken Quesadillas. Shredded chipotle chicken served with grilled pineapple, Cotija cheese, queso fresco
topped with a choice of barbecue, chorizo, southwest chicken or carnitas and served with avocado, queso fresco, Cotija cheese, spicy sauce and sour cream.
late made through an ancient process that is over 500 years old. Featured cocktail offerings include: • Troublemaker. Los Almantes Mezcal mixed with Monin
About Hard Rock International
2 1 For this, Hard Rock has developed a variety of new food and drink options, including tacos, quesadillas and vegetarian dishes, all of which incorporate traditional Mexican-inspired flavours. The new choices will also be paired with the Mezcal Cocktail Tour, a selection of adult drinks made with Mezcal - from Mexico. “Hard Rock Cafe’s guests expect bold flavours and unique dining options, which is why we wanted to embrace ethnicity and flavour as part of the Taste of Mexico”, said Antonio Bautista, SVP of Franchise Cafe Development & Operations. “The addition of the new menu reflects the brand’s commitment to satisfying our customers’ ever-evolving tastes and provides an authentic dining experience that guests can’t find anywhere else.”
4 3 cheese drizzled with a zesty Aji Amarillo sauce. • Pan Roasted Shrimp with Mezcal. Grilled annatto and chipotle spiced shrimp served in a roasted tomato, arbol and poblano broth with chopped coriander, Aji Amarillo, drizzled with chilli vinaigrette and served with Mexican rice.
sauce, mixed cheese, spicy sauce and a side of sour cream and guacamole. • Smoky Chicken Tinga Tacos. Shredded chipotle chicken served with tomatillo sauce, Cotija cheese, Aji Amarillo salsa, queso fresco and spicy sauce. • Assorted Huaraches. Corn dough and black bean cakes
• Diablo. Los Almantes Mezcal mixed with muddled cucumber wheels, lime juice, mango purée and agave, topped with Ginger Beer. • Amigo. Los Almantes Mezcal mixed with Luxardo Liqueur, Blueberry Real, fresh lime juice and Orgeat syrup.
• Assorted Mexican Street Tacos. A choice of carnitas, barbecue, southwest chicken or shrimp street-style tacos served in white corn or flour tortillas and topped with shredded lettuce, queso fresco, Cotija cheese, spicy sauce and sour cream. • Mexican Street Corn Fritters (vegetarian dish). Served with tomatillo sauce, lime cream, Cotija cheese and habaneros. • Chipotle Sweet Potato and Quinoa Tacos (vegetarian dish). Served with pico, queso fresco, tomatillo salsa, Cotija cheese and sour cream.
Chipotle Pineapple, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, and red jalapeno rings.
The Mezcal Cocktail Tour showcases adult drinks created with Mezcal, an agave-based distil1. Assorted Mexican Street Tacos 2. Pan Roasted Shrimp with Mezcal 3. Fiesta Chicken Quesadillas 4. Grilled Shrimp with Mexican Street Corn Salad 5. The Amigo Cocktail
5
With venues in 68 countries, including 163 cafes, 23 hotels and 11 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognised companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York and Sydney. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include Gran Canaria, San Juan, and Reykjavik. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Tenerife, Atlanta, Berlin, Daytona Beach, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. For more information on the new menu offer and Hard Rock International, visit: www. hardrock.com. You can visit Tenerife’s Hard Rock Cafe at Avenida de Las Américas, Pirámide de Arona, Playa de n Las Américas.
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
Promotion
Make the most of your holiday with an out-of-this-world break in the Portuguese capital with CanariasViaja. Whatever your heart desires can be found in and around Lisbon. It’s big enough to offer all the benefits of a European capital and small enough to give you a truly warm welcome; a city where modernity rubs shoulders comfortably with the remains of an important historical heritage, a beautiful, quirky and practical capital where diversity rules. Stroll along the stunning, abstract-patterned pavements of the Avenida da Liberdade and drink fresh lemonade or a sweet capilés in any one of hundreds of outdoor cafés in the beautiful terraces and squares. Check out the incredible views from the higher parts of the town, visit one of the world’s biggest aquariums in Parque das Nações, home of the 1998 World Exposition where you can also stroll in the park, along the marina or hire a bike! Shop till you drop in some of the world’s best known boutiques (Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Armani, etc.), in old-town areas like the cobble-stoned streets of La Baixa and Chiado for typical Portuguese crafts such as carpets, lace and ceramics, or visit one of the many open air markets or the Tuesday and Saturday flea market at Feira de Ladra. Check out the music and dance choices from modern to classic, rock to opera, and of course the local fado. See stimulating museums and enjoy incredible gastronomic adventures in restaurants to rave about. You will find Lisbon to be a surprising and intense experience, a city of contrasts with a golden past and a vibrating present.
TRAVEL
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Buying your Pasteis de Belém in the Confitería Nacional at the Praça da Figueira and
value for money and price/ quality ratio. There are connections from all the Islands for their international flight which takes less than two hours and has an onboard service and you can choose your accommodation from a selection of charming hotels in the heart of Lisbon.
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
Lift off for Lisbon! How to get there Local airline Binter flies to Lisbon every Thursday and Sunday all year with connections from all the Islands. Lisbon’s airport is only eight kilometres from the city and there is an
tre, but in a quiet street – the warm welcome will make you feel at home. Solar do Castelo: Next to the famous Castillo de San Jorge in Alfama, this hotel offers some incredible views. Hotel Britania: Voted in top place by TripAdvisor contributors, this hotel is a ‘must’ for lovers of Art Deco. As Janelas Verdes: If you want a romantic break with spectacular views of the Tajo, this hotel in a small 18th century palace is for you.
price/quality balance. Complete your gastronomic experience with a Portuguese wine,
CanariasViaja Works with the leading hotels in the areas Binter flies to and provides the best packages with the aim of offering real value to their customers. If you have a young family, check out their amazing special holiday offers for under 14s.
Entrance to the Heritage Avenida Liberdade
BinterMás card
airport bus link that runs every 20 minutes to the Avenida da Liberdade for just €3.50. This ticket also entitles you to discounts on the tourist train and other local transport.
The BinterMás loyalty card awards customers points when flying with Binter or using the excellent facilities offered by associated companies. Improving your BinterMás level is easy and will earn you certain perks such as waiting list priority, discounts, and check-in and attention facilities. The Silver level is attained with 2,500 points and Gold with 8,000. Canarias Viaja’s clients get one point for every €1 spent on their holiday package.
Where to stay Get away from the cookie-cutter hotels and stay somewhere unique that you will remember for the rest of your life. CanariasViaja offer bed and breakfast packages in a superb selection of charming, family-run, quality, value-for-money, boutique hotels from the Heritage Hotels group. They are based in the centre of the old city and boast all the traditional details that make them so cosy and welcoming. Heritage Avenida Liberdade: With its famous blue façade, a design which encompasses many original elements and a privileged location, this hotel is ideal for couples. Hotel Lisboa Plaza: Perfect for family stays – close to the cen-
Heritage Avenida Liberdade room interior
Where to eat Spectacular seafood abounds, typical meat dishes feature on local menus, and the Portuguese are famous for their desserts like the Pasteis de Belém. Locals recommend: Restaurante Zambeze: A fusion of African and Portuguese cuisine in a restaurant at the feet of the Castillo de San Jorge with a terrace giving spectacular views over Lisbon and the Tajo. Solar dos Presuntos – One of the most well-known restaurants in the area and very close to the Hotel Heritage Lisboa. There are also many great options around the Plaza de Figueira offering a fabulous
Lisbon is a fascinating mix of the old and new
the best of which can all be found in the capital.
Don’t miss A visit to the centre of romantic Sintra (beloved of Lord Byron) and Cascais, returning by train along the Estoril coast to the Torre de Belém. A tram ride on the number 28 through the Graça, Alfama and Castelo neighbourhoods. The wonderful, traditional shops and cafés in Chiado like the Café Brasileira, browsing for books at Bertrands, or listening to live music in A Vida Portuguesa commercial centre.
do try the local cherry-based liqueur Ginginha. The Berardo Museum which houses one of the best modern art collections in the world, with works by Warhol, Picasso and Bacon.
Canariasviaja.com CanariasViaja is the specialist online agency offering complete holiday breaks and packages (flight, hotel and excursions) to destinations served by the Canarian airline company Binter, with regular special offers and promotions for Canarian residents. Their Lisbon breaks are brilliant packages offering a great
Contact and bookings Binter is far more than just an inter-island service! For further information and bookings visit: www.bintercanarias.com, or call 902 391 392. Their website is available in English, Spanish and French. For holiday offers and packages available from their travel operator, visit: www.canariasviaja. com or call 922 248 161. n
FOOD
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Bar Restaurante 10 Años
Fresh Fish Anyone? By John together with chunks of ten- edly knows how to cook fish to the local red, three more I last visited this restaurant 11 years ago when I came over to stay on the island with friends. After a recommendation from one of the lovely librarians at the English Library, I thought I should go there again.
der meat and sausage, quite enough for three persons as a starter. It was definitely one of the better fabadas, as well; in some places the sauce is too thin and gruel like. Our main courses were a fish kebab (€9.85), fresh fillets of Gallo (€7.80), and one of the
Traditionally Canarian
And so, on a cold and shivery Friday evening, we parked on a vertiginous road and entered the Bar Restaurante 10 Años, famed for the freshness of its locally caught fish. By gum, it was draughty in there – quite busy with diners, but all huddled up at the far end away from the gale blowing through the open front door. The temperature was a little challenging. The waiters were quite charming, even offering to take our pictures when they espied my camera. Service, too, was quick; fast enough to stave off the onset of hypothermia! After the delivery of rolls flavoured with caraway seeds, we started with a piping hot dish of fabada at €4.10: lovely butter beans in a really rich sauce,
Bar Restaurante 10 Años Calle Guía, 47 La Matanza de Acentejo Tel: 922 581 200 Closed: Sunday evenings and Mondays Loo Score: 7/10
properly! Which brings me to the plate of house salad, which was exceptional. Lurking in the ever present chopped lettuce was the equivalent of a whole avocado, a whole beefsteak tomato, half a red onion, a scattering of olives, and chunks of melon and white asparagus.
reds are offered, and four white wines. We saw other diners enjoying the cherne a la plancha (€9.90), homemade fish croquettes with Russian salad (€4.20), Calamari with chips (€5.90) and sizzling prawns in garlic (€6.90). Fish and chips here – albeit of a
Looks real doesn’t it…
Fresh fillets of Gallo
ding, tiramisu and three-chocolate cake. If you enjoy fresh fish at reasonable prices, then this is one of the best places to go. Per-
Delicious fabadas
Tasty fish kebab
Crispy golden churros de pescado
The salad was excellent
house specialities, churros de pescado (€5.20): fried chunks of fish in a light golden batter. All came with the ubiquitous chips, albeit hand cut, and all three of us pronounced our dishes to be excellent. The lady in the kitchen assur-
For €7.70 it was quite generous enough for the three of us, and was not quite entirely demolished. Half a litre of local red wine popped up at €3 – and we were promised that it could not be more local. In addition
different nature to that which one knows best – is a very filling meal. We had no room left for the range of desserts on offer, which were all priced at €2.50 and included the traditional quesillo dish, pineapple pud-
haps take your own cushion to offset the hardness of the chairs, however…another personal bugbear of mine. n But do go!
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Canary Islands’ attractions for tourists and residents Where to visit
General information
Upcoming events
What’s on
Islands summary
Useful contacts
Spin news
Cultural guide
Pages 22 & 23
Pages 24 & 25
Page 26 & 27
Page 28
Prize draw
Win tickets to see Quantum Ensemble Quantum Ensemble is the resident chamber music group at the Tenerife Adán Martín Auditorium in Santa Cruz, and Island Connections along with the organisers are offering readers the opportunity to win two tickets to their next concert on April 28. Quantum Ensemble stands out among other chamber groups because of their flexible approach to classical music, bringing it closer to their audiences, into a modern context, and more in line with the tastes of younger generations. To achieve this noble aim, they create their own innovative arrangements of pieces from the classical repertoire, and on stage they encourage a connection between the artists and the audience. They also generate direct dialogue with the public, who can meet the musicians in the Auditorium hall during the interlude: They
music from the beginning of the twentieth century, created by some of the most universal composers: Enrique Granados, Isaac Albéniz and Manuel de Falla. The exciting show is entitled Iberia al desnudo (Iberia uncovered). Worthy of a special mention is the composer and professor from the Amsterdam Conservatory, Gustavo Trujillo (born in La Orotava in 1972), who played an invaluable part in the repertoire for the performance, being
firmly believe that a gathering to share music, such as a concert, should be a profound and uplifting human experience. Quantum Ensemble has a stable nucleus of three musicians, each with extensive national
and international careers behind them: David Ballesteros on violin, Cristo Barrios on clarinet, and Gustavo Díaz-Jerez on piano. The trio is accompanied by prestigious guest musicians and artists, according to each programme,
particularly those who provide contemporary music, as well as Canarian composers. In this upcoming concert, the sixth of the current season, the group wishes to showcase some of the more representative examples of Spanish chamber
responsible for the transcription of Falla’s famous Siete canciones populares españolas (seven popular Spanish songs). Also, for the first time, Quantum Ensemble will be performing a work created for the violin, clarinet and piano by Los Realejosborn composer Rubens Askenar. Of particular interest will be the performance by the group’s founder member, Gustavo DíazJerez, as he plays part of one of the works for which he is best known, the Suite Iberia. n
Quantum Ensemble will be performing Iberia al desnudo at the Tenerife Adán Martín Auditorium in Santa Cruz, on April 28 at 8.30pm. To enter the draw to win two tickets to see the concert, all you have to do is send an email with the subject line ‘Quantum Ensemble’ to: draw@icmedia.eu, before April 22. Please remember to include your full name and telephone number so we can contact you if you win. The judges’ decision will be final, and cash alternatives to the prize will not be available. The winners will be able to collect their tickets from the Auditorium’s box office on the night. Good luck from the Island Connections team.
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HOLIDAY GUIDE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
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.
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.
Puerto de la Cruz 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.
which is popular with European, Russian and national tourists. There are vari-
La Laguna
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
Las Gaviotas beach
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.
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
Other islands Only a 45 minute ferry ride from the port of Los Cristianos, La Gomera is a small, peaceful island with amazing hiking and a prehistoric 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
Photo: siulesoj
La Gomera
La Gomera laurel forest
Gran Canaria
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.
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
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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 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-
Photo: Kai Gieseler / FreeImages.com
Photo: Sizters / FreeImages.com
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.
HOLIDAY GUIDE
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
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
Lanzarote
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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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
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.
Las Teresitas beach, Tenerife
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
Auditorium, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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 Cristóbal, Plaza de España Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm 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 769
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
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
Photo: Gianni Testore / FreeImages.com
Taxis: (0034) 922 715 407
HOLIDAY GUIDE 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) 922 747 511 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.
Lanzarote
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 Orotava Tourist Office C/ Calvario, 4 Tel: (0034) 922 323 041
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
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
Morro Jable Tourist Office Avda. Saladar, Jandía shopping centre Tel: (0034) 928 540 776 turismo@playasdejandia.com Taxis: (0034) 928 541 257
Residents choose
Rani Tandoori
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.
Exquisite Indian Cuisine
Lago Martiánez Avda. De Cristóbal Colón, 1 Tel: (0034) 922 385 955
C.C. Pueblo Canario · Loc. 308 Opening times: 38670 Playa de Las Américas Every day 6.30 pm – 11.30 pm Adeje · Tel.: 922 798 943 Director & Chef: Yoguendra „Michael“ © 2015 FLN
Taxis: Servitaxi (0034) 922 378 999
La Palma Tourist Office Avda. Blas Pérez González s/n Tel: (0034) 922 412 106 www.visitlapalma.es
Taxi rank: (0034) 922 462 001 www.taxilapalma.com / (0034) 686 553 868
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
La Palma
Playa Santiago Tourist Office Avda. Marítima, s/n. Tel: (0034) 922 895 650 playasantiago@lagomera. travel
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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Pickup Point 2nd Home Tenerife C.C. Plaza del Duque
26
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Fascinating and fun
Arona International Tourism Congress The south of Tenerife offers and exciting chance to attend a free conference covering a myraid of subjects for Tourism on April 25 and 26. The first day of the event will take place in the Infanta Leonor Auditorium in Los Cristianos. Starting at 9am, the programme for April 25 will include the following: An opening session by José Julián Mena and José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, mayors of Arona and Adeje respectively; María Teresa Lorenzo Rodríguez, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Canary Islands’ Government; and Carlos Alonso, President of the Tenerife council. This will cover topics such as Future prospects for the Islands’ tourist sector; Strategies for development in Tenerife; Accessibility and sustainability; and Challenges for tourism in the third millennium. Other speakers during the morning will include Cristina Oliveira, rector of the Universidad Europea de Canarias, on
Training and Employment - the great challenge of the tourism sector; World tourism expert Ignacio Vasallo with: Emerging markets, mirage or reality; and mayor of Puerto de la Cruz, Lope Afonso, on the restructuring of tourist destinations to improve facilities. A break for lunch at the Gran Hotel Arona Los Cristianos will take place at 2.30pm, followed by the afternoon’s subjects
which will include: A multicultural society, tourism as a key element; Public and private tourist infrastructures; Tourism as a shared responsibility towards the planet; and Agricultural Landscapes and Cultural Heritage - cornerstones of sustainable tourism. The day will end at 7.30pm. April 26 sees the conference move to the Hotel Villa Cortés, with many of the same speak-
ers, plus many more, and a start at 9am. Subjects include: Air Transport a strategic service for tourism development; Cruise Tourism, a firm commitment from the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Port Authority; The revolution in information and technology and its impact on supply and demand; Policies and strategies of the hotel sector in Europe, Africa and America; Religious, cultural and heritage tourism. The conference will end around 2pm but will be followed by a lunch at the Hotel. Whilst attendance at the talks is free, the lunches are not, but special prices can be arranged by booking directly with the venues. Places are limited for the talks so should be booked in advance by emailing: congresos@tribunaforum.com or direccion@tribunaforum.com. See: www.arona.org for a complete rundown on the event or the related sites: www.tribunaforum.es / www.foroeconomicotricontinental.com for inforn mation on the sector.
Lanzarote concert sold out
Alan Parsons Live Project Legends Live have announced that all tickets for the Alan Parsons Live Project concert in Lanzarote on April 23 were sold out well in advance. However, all is not lost, as on April 20 and 22 Alan Parsons will be appearing in Gran Canaria and Tenerife respectively. Tickets for the Tenerife show are also expected to sell out, as was the case with the recent hugely successful UB40 gig. The concert by Welsh musician and producer Alan Parsons will
be the second in the Legends Live cycle in Tenerife, which
will bring exclusive shows to the island, by some of the top
pop and rock artists and groups from the seventies, eighties and nineties. The venue for all the Tenerife gigs is the Pirámide de Arona in Playa de Las Américas where there are only 1,500 seats: all the more reason to get your tickets soon, from: www.legendslive. es or www.ticketbell.com. For more information, tickets and the latest news, you can also visit Facebook (Legends Live TF) and Twitter (@legn endslivetf).
Contemporary art in San Miguel
BACOS
San Miguel de Abona council has announced a new biennial artistic event, and though it doesn’t take place until November, the time to register your work is now! The international showcasing of emerging contemporary artists is known as BACOS, and will concentrate on five disciplines: bidimensional art, tridimensional, photography, short films and video installations. Budding artists are invited to submit their work during the months of April and May should they wish to take part. The event is named after, and dedicated to, Eve María Zimmermann, a German artist of international repute who lived in Tenerife from 1971 until her death in 2012. San Miguel mayor Arturo González described BACOS as a golden opportunity for the council to continue providing a variety of cultural opportunities for the public, and said that, during the one month period of the exhibition, the municipality would be transformed into a natural stage where artists can display their work. Another of the aims of the event is to become a debating forum regarding the limitations and problems confronting the sector, and to promote those who would normally lack a means of presenting their work. Councillor for tourism Samuel de León said that San Miguel wishes to be at the forefront of initiatives such as these, and also took the opportunity to highlight the unjust situation which artists in the Islands face when it comes to exporting or importing their works, thanks to the current Canarian customs’ system. The BACOS project has the support of the Fine Arts Faculty at the University of La Laguna, the Fernando Estévez Art School, various associations, and several hotels in the coastal area of San Miguel, amongst others. For more information, or to register your work, see: www.bacossanmiguel.com or www.facebook.com/bacossanmiguel/. n
Dreams are made of this
Paraguayan pottery As part of the regional craft days, entitled Tenerife and pottery, the Museum of IberoAmerican Crafts has organised an exhibition called Material of dreams. The collection on show features beautiful Paraguayan pieces, modeled in several shapes and forms, and with a range of motifs. It is on now until April 20 at the Casa de El Capitán in San Miguel de Abona, and open Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm, and Monday to Thursday from 4.30pm to 7pm. n
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
The Steepwater Band
Shaking your faith The Steepwater Band from Chicago are bringing more of their rock and electric blues to Tenerife, for a show which will take place on May 1 in the north of the island. The groovy bros are currently on an extensive tour to promote their latest studio album Shake your faith (Diamond days 2016), and of course they are stopping off in Tenerife to literally rock La Laguna, following their successful visits in 2011 and 2014. This is their first studio album to be released since a second guitarist, Eric Saylors, was taken on by the group. He joins Joe Winters on drums, Tod Bowers on bass, and guitarist Jeff Massey, and the result is a powerful rock band with hints of psychedelic and blues. Lovers of the genres should mark the date of this not-to-be-missed live music extravaganza in their diaries, and no one even has to worry about it being a late night because the following day is a bank holiday! The band will be performing at the Aguere Cultural Space, starting 9.30pm, and it should be noted that the band’s last concert in Tenerife sold out really quickly. Space is limited, so get your tickets soon. These are available, priced at €15, from Sonora Discos, The Lone Star and Sin Rencor Tattoo in Santa Cruz; the Aguere Cultural Space and Black Wolf in La Laguna, as well as the mobile Second Hand Music Store. See: www.aguerecultural.com to check out the info. n
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Folklore, tradition and fun
Tegueste Romería Thousands of people from all over Tenerife visit the north eastern town of Tegueste every year for the Romería of San Marcos, one of the most popular ‘animal fairs’ on the island. They come to witness the impressive procession of gypsy wagons decorated with the typical characteristics of the area, which are accompanied by singing and dancing groups. This all adds to the atmosphere while those present enjoy the local wines and great food. The Romería of San Marcos the Evangelist is a passionate observance of the customs and conventions of the Canary Islands. The romería attracts folklore groups from all over the archipelago, the wagons are decorated with local produce, you’ll see boats, farm
animals, herds of cows, dogs and pets, and the Dance of the Flowers, all accompanied by hordes of people in typical costume. It is a colourful and cheerful sight to say the least! The main procession begins at 1pm and travels through the streets of the town. Afterwards, the animals will be blessed
and typical food products will be offered to the patron Saint. The event will include several sporting contests, such as Lucha Canaria (typical Canarian wrestling), athletics, basketball and more. On the following day, the wagons which took part will be on display for all to see, and those
on board will still be offering wonderful food and wine to visitors. This year’s Romería of San Marcos in Tegueste takes place on April 24, and is the result of plenty of hard work by the local people who decorated the wagons. For more information, see: www. n tegueste.es.
Garachico exhibition
Silence: the sound of the soul
DO YOU WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR COMPANY HERE 922 750 609
Román Hernández, a sculptor from Los Realejos with extensive experience both in Spain and abroad, is showing his collection of works entitled ¡Silencio! Suena el alma, in Garachico until May 1. Speaking about his chosen subject, Hernández declared that “Death is an unavoidable topic, an evocative theme which has been picked up by all the arts.” He realises the observer is likely to wonder why he chose this focus, but says that he always considers the elegiac depths of his sculptures and art, and that he is always keen to feature the poetry of life in his works. Poetry and being in nature have always been sources of inspiration for Hernández, who has worked with various internationally-recognised writers to create combinations which he simply
Román Hernández is showing his collection of works in Garachico until May 1
defines as “feedback”. During his career in the world
of art, he has spent 28 years teaching subjects related to
sculpture at the University of La Laguna. Despite his low opinion of current training models implanted by various central governments and their effect on the quality of education today, he is an avowed lover of teaching. He says, “We must not forget that art is innate, and there will always be some students who stand out. It is a small percentage, but I can say that I have some former students who make me very proud, indeed.” You can visit his exhibition at the Casa de Piedra Art Space in Garachico, Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm. The artist is also offering a guided tour on April 23, at 6pm. Opening times on that day will be 10am to 4pm and 5pm to 8pm. For more information, see: www.facebook. com/Área-Garachico-proyecton cultural.
HOLIDAY GUIDE WHATS ON 2016
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
April
April
GRAN CANARIA TENERIFE DIARY DATES The weekend of April 22 - 24 will see several book fairs all over the Islands in honour of World Book Day (April 23). Many will be combined with children’s workshops and author’s signings. Check with your local council. April 14
DIARY DATES Santa Cruz has in the past combined a flowers and plants fair with World Book Day with. Check with local councils for related events near you. April TBA
8pm: Gran Canaria chamber music orchestra, €12, Mozart and Brahms, ExpoMeloneras, San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
Walk in Tacoronte to enjoy and learn about the local Guayonje onions. Date depending on the maturity of the crop, restricted numbers. www. facebook.com/TenerifeRural.
April 15-17
April 14
8am – 5pm: Motorbike and urban mobility fair, activities for all ages, Edificio Miller, Parque de Santa Catalina, LPGC. April 15 8pm: Brigton Rumblers, Parallel music series, €5, San Martín Centro de la Cultura Contemporánea, Ramón y Cajal 1, LPGC. 8.30pm: Great romanticism classical music concert, Orquesta Filarmónica de Gran Canaria, from €13, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC. www. entradas.com. 9pm: GC-1 Blues, Plaza Farray, Free Entry, LPGC.
9pm: Natanael Ramos Group, jazz music and photography, Free Entry, Patio de las Palmeras, Museo de La Naturaleza y El Hombre, Santa Cruz. www.museosdetenerife.org. April 16
April 20
April 25
Workshop, how to avoid and deal with lymphedema, Pink Room, Free Entry, Escuela de Seguridad y Convivencia, 2nd floor, Calle Beneharo s/n, Las Nieves, Adeje, register to book, limited places. 674 352 002.
TBA: Special mass and procession to celebrate Saint Pedro’s day, Vilaflor.
April 21 9pm: Chaira (Carlos Costa), jazz music and photography, Free Entry, Patio de las Palmeras, Museo de La Naturaleza y El Hombre, Santa Cruz. www.museosdetenerife.org. April 22 6pm: Gastronomy, Festival of the senses, the best of the areas’ wines accompanying the best tapas, until 10pm, Calle Prebendado Pacheco, Tegueste. www.tegueste.es TBA: 7 Islands folklore festival, singing, dancing, regional costumes, Free Entry, town centre, Tegueste
April 16 9pm: Celtas Cortos, Celtic Rock, open air concert, Avenida de Canarias, Free Entry, Santa Lucía de Tirajana.
April 26 8pm: Free aikido class, Terrero de Lucha de El Calvario, registration essential. www.dojokuubukan.es / 639 187 140 / secretariadeldojo@yahoo.es. April 27 Workshop, how to cope with stress and relaxation techniques, Pink Room, Free Entry, Escuela de Seguridad y Convivencia, 2nd floor, Calle Beneharo s/n, Las Nieves, Adeje, register to book, limited places. 674 352 002. Thursdays Hiking route down the Masca ravine, €45, visit to Masca village, 4-hour hike, ½ hour on the beach, 1 hour food and boat trip, guide, insurance and transfer to and from Puerto de La Cruz, Los Gigantes, Garachico, Los Silos and Buenavista. www.elcardon.com. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
April 20 9pm: Alan Parsons Live Project concert, From €48, Gran Canaria Arena, LPGC. Entrees.es.
9pm: Alan Parsons Live Project concert (doors open at 7.30pm), From €45, Pirámide de Arona, Playa de Las Américas. www.legendslive.es.
April 21 9pm: Silvio Rodríguez, Cuban folk singer, from €46.20, Gran Canaria Arena, LPGC. www. girasilviorodriguez.com.
April 23
Canarias Folk Fest, parade, regional costumes, traditional dancing, singing and crafts and tastings in Las Galletas and Los Cristianos. Thursday – Rambla Dionisio González, Las Galletas, Friday – Avenida Las Américas (Golden Mile), Playa de Las Américas, and Saturday – Plaza de la Pescadera and PaseoMarítimo (Avenida Juan Alfonso Bautista), Los Cristianos. Thursday and Saturday, 5pm - 8.30pm, Friday 8.30pm. Saturday mornings
April 22 8.30pm: Tropical Barba, No solo rock series, €5, San Martín Centro de la Cultura Contemporánea, Ramón y Cajal 1, LPGC. April 23 Hike, Cruz de Tejeda – Los Moriscos – Valsendero, Valleseco Tourism office, 928 618 022, extension 221. www.vallesecograncanaria.com. April 26, 28 and 30 8.30pm: Nabucco, opera (Verdi), from €15, Teatro Pérez Galdós, Plaza Stagno 1, LPGC.
5am to 1.30pm: Hike to follow the route of the first Canarian saint, San Pedro. www.granadilladeabona.org.
8am – 7pm: Running, various distances, access to some areas of Santa Cruz could be restricted including Las Teresitas beach and the Parque Rural de Anaga. www.santacruzextreme.com.
Folklore exhibitions, Pueblo Canario, Francisco González Díaz, Free Entry, LPGC.
EXHIBITIONS Until April 30
Until May 22 Cada Respiro (Every Breath), audiovisual art by award winning, internationally renowned, contemporary Cuban artist Glenda León, Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderna, Sala Antonio Abad, Vegueta, LPGC, Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 10am – 2pm. www.caam.net.
Sundays
April 17
Sundays
Zonians, photography, Matías Costa, Centro de Arte La Regenta, León y Castillo 427, LPGC, Tuesday to Friday, 11am – 2pm and 5pm – 8pm, Saturday 11am – 2pm.
Events for specific groups, families, seniors, women etc., Activate Sports Club. www.tenerifeactivate.com.
6pm: Elvis tribute show, Greg Miller & The Jailhouse Band, €20, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, Arona. www.entrees.es From April 18 TBA: Festivities, dances, concerts etc. in Icod de los Vinos for Saint Marcos day (April 25 but the fun normally lasts a couple of weeks) See the council website nearer the time. www. icoddelosvinos.es.
12pm: Family concert, Orquesta Sinfónica de Tenerife, tickets at €5 and €1, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, Arona. www. arona.org. 1.30pm: Charity lunch in favour of Duchenne’s victim Oliver García Carmenitis, Italian restaurant, San Marcos, Icod de los Vinos. Transport from the south 658 086 453, reservations 922 810 336 / 696 911 311. 6pm: Family opera, Rinaldo, from €6, Auditorio de Santa Cruz Adán Martín, Santa Cruz. www.auditoriodetenerife.com.
Secrets of Teno, 4-hour hike, demonstration of local traditions and activities, cheese and wine tasting, guide and insurance, Plaza de Teno Alto, Buenavista del Norte, €25 (transport available). www.elcardon.com.
EXHIBITIONS Until May 28 Photography, Chema Madoz, national photography prize winner, Espacio Cultural CajaCanarias, Plaza del Patriotismo, Santa Cruz, Monday to Saturday, 11am – 2pm and 5pm - 8pm.
April 24 12pm: Family opera, see above. 1pm: San Marcos Romería, religious and animal fair with colourful procession, traditional music and dancing, food and wine tasting, decorated carts, regional costumes, Free Entry, Tegueste. 8.30pm: Drei, contemporary dance, Paloma Hurtado and Samuel Aguilar, €5 and €8, Teatro Victoria, Calle Méndez Nuñez, Santa Cruz.
For regular church, charity and recreational events, please see: www.islandconnections.eu/1000003/1000027/0/41004/living-lifestyle-article.html
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
MUSIC
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
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The Qfm Music Review – Your guide to music created in the Canary Islands
Canarian Jazz… with Mojo Picante However diverse the musical genres available to us on this island may seem, we can’t go far without getting knocked sideways by the skill of a local jazz musician or collective. And this is what happened the first time I heard the latest album, Exploration, from Santa Cruzborn Eduardo Rojo. At a young age he was drawn into music, and started to learn classical piano, and shortly began to also study jazz, guided by Polo Ortí. In 2002 he relocated to Barcelona to continue his studies, and four years later graduated as a master in jazz piano. In 2007 he moved to New York to work with various artists, and finally settled in Rotterdam in 2011, in order to take his master degree in composition, which he completed in 2013 with a rating of ‘outstanding’. He is now known as a freelance pianist, composer and arranger. In between these journeys, Eduardo found time to perform at various jazz festivals, and also to record several stu-
dio albums. Exploration was recorded with the collaboration of several noteworthy island musicians, making it a true 100 per cent ‘Made in
Eduardo with saxophonist Fermin Rivero
funk and groove, and the album lives up to our expectations. With its complex, yet simple to understand compositions, light and shade, brave chords and solos, Exploration is a testimony to not only where its author had studied, but to his ingenuity and creativity. Listen to tracks from the Eduardo Rojo Quintet – Exploration, on Qfm 94.3 and www. n Qmusica.com.
Eduardo Rojo
Canarias’ production. In addition to Eduardo Rojo playing Rhodes piano, the album features Fermín Rivero on saxophone, Juan Vidal on electric guitar, Luismo Valladares on electric bass and Dimas Machado on drums. With this line up you would expect some fusions of jazz,
Tracklist 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
CP Quick Time Song For Nanne Empty Rocket Chikitilindrín
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SPOTLIGHT
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Spotlight on Sam Saxo
Fire and wind Versatile saxophonist Sammy Pearce has been performing in R&B bands, house acts and jazz ensembles for over 25 years, and his recording facility, Saxo Studios, now serves as one of the principle recording studios on the Island. Sam Saxo, as he’s known on the circuit, started to learn music on a keyboard bought for him at Christmas when he was 13 years old. He then took clarinet lessons at school but after six months he tried a saxophone for the first time and never looked back. His early foray with piano and woodwinds may have been stepping stones to the saxophone but he still uses those skills at Saxo Studios – a high-tech recording facility based in The Patch, Playa de Las Américas. “My main focus at the moment is the studio”, Sammy said of juggling production with performing, “I’ve had it for four years, but things have grown in the last couple and I’m working on some really interesting projects.” Sam is currently working on an album with ElMar Origenes called Soul Conversations, due for release in summer 2016, as well as a World Music group he co-formed with Charlie, a Spanish guitarist; Rod, a hang drum musician; and Johnny, a percussionist. Alongside this he is producing and remixing “organic and soulful” house music with the DJ, Jon Fernández. Sammy continues to gig and collaborate with jazz bands, including The Free Jazz Quartet, as well as featuring in a Ska duo. He plays with Pip
Saxo Studios in Playa de Las Américas
Sammy style
Brown in The Michael Bublé Show at St. Eugen’s Live Music Bar, and performs a smooth jazz show at Restaurant Sebastian in Torviscas every Sunday evening. Sammy was born in London into a musical family and grew up in Birmingham. His father was a session guitarist and bassist who later went into management and represented the soul singer Ruby Turner. Most of Sammy’s formative years were spent in studios, rehearsal rooms and at gigs. He joined his first band at 14, played a residency spot at the Adam & Eve in Birmingham at 17 with the R&B outfit Led Astray, and went on to graduate with a Higher National Diploma in Music, Performance and Production at St. Philip’s College in Birmingham. Sammy found himself looking for a change and, together with his
Sammy with Matteo Malavasi (bass), Antonio Postiglione (keyboard), and Israel Rodríguez Hernández (drums) Sam Saxo in action
girlfriend Shelby, decided to move to Tenerife in 2002. Shortly after embarking on a new life in the sub-tropics, Sammy met Simon Middleton, the guitarist and singer of the band Korsak, and started on the local circuit “playing bars and
doing the hotel thing”. He later formed a Michael Bublé show with singer Doug Brown – with whom he started Saxo Studios – and Marco Vavassori on guitar, who is another long-term collaborator. In 2007 Sammy took a break from music and
managed the popular Bar Manfred’s in El Médano for over a year until he got a call from Tibú nightclub in Playa de Las Américas about running a jam session with The Reboot Project there. It proved enormously successful from the start, and quickly led to “an avalanche of interest and live work. It was a very productive period for me. I soon got known playing all the bars and hotels and at one time I was doing nearly
20 gigs a week!” The popularity of his recording studio has been the most pleasing development in recent years; meeting the demands of local musicians who had limited options before, and filling a niche in the south of Tenerife. Saxo Studios has three main rooms: the control room, a recording room that can accommodate a five-piece band, and a recording booth that can house a full percussion setup if needed. Saxo studios is well-equipped to deal with most recording scenarios, with Sammy bringing a wealth of experience, contacts and session musicians to realise the sound that any artist wants. They offer multi-track recording, audio production, mixing, editing, post-production, mastering and high-end vocal processing. From May 2016, Saxo Studios has a special offer for bands, with prices starting from just €10 an hour. For more information on Saxo Studios visit the website: www. saxostudios.wix.com/saxostudios. To contact Sammy, email: samkpearce@hotmail. co.uk. Telephone: +34 635 n 126 515.
Pickup Point 2nd Home Tenerife C.C. Plaza del Duque
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
BLEVINS FRANKS
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Budget 2016 By Paul Montague, Partner, Blevins Franks
In his eighth Budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne announced very few changes on March 16, 2016 that are likely to affect expatriates. The Personal Allowance is increasing to £11,500 in 2017/2018 (it will be £11,000 per person in 2016/2017), and the higher rate band will apply to income in excess of £45,000 in 2017/2018. One of the biggest changes announced that will affect individuals is actually no change at all: the Capital Gains Tax rate is to decrease to 10 per cent where gains fall into the basic rate band, and 20 per cent where such gains fall into the higher rate band. However, this will not apply to non-residents of the UK, who do not generally pay UK Capital Gains Tax on such gains in any case (unless disposing of assets used in a trade
“In his eighth Budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne announced very few changes on March 16, 2016 that are likely to affect expatriates” in the UK). That said, if you leave the UK and dispose of UK assets you already own at departure and return to live in the UK within five complete and consecutive UK tax years, this will affect you, as such gains will become taxable in full in the UK tax year in which you return to the UK.
Non-UK residents are still subject to UK Capital Gains Tax on disposal of UK residential real estate, and the rates for such disposals have not changed – the gain is taxable at 18 per cent where it falls into the basic rate band, and 28 per cent where such gains fall into the higher rate band.
The good news is that, where the property is held personally or in trust, tax only applies on the gain accruing since April 6, 2015. For UK residential properties held within companies, the date from which the gain is taxable varies and advice should be sought if considering selling such a property.
ISA contributions are increasing again, to £20,000 from April 6, 2017, although as non-UK residents can no longer contribute to an ISA, this should not be relevant to expatriates. From April 2018, Class 2 National Insurance Contributions will be abolished. These are usually paid by the selfemployed in the UK, but in certain circumstances can be paid voluntarily by individuals working or self-employed outside the UK, so that they can ‘top-up’ their contributions to the UK state pension. Most of the changes that will affect non-UK residents from April 6, 2016 were announced previously. So this Budget has not made many significant changes, but there are big changes applying to those who have moved or intend to move from April 6, 2016 onwards. It is always a good idea to take advice when moving country, but if you have concerns over how these changes will affect you, you should take advice sooner rather than later.
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. Blevins Franks provides tailor-made advice on investment strategies, tax mitigation and estate planning. It has decades of experience advising British expatriates in Spain. Contact Paul Montague on 922 716 079 or paul. montague@blevinsfranks.com. www.blevinsfranks.com.
Blevins Franks provides tailor-made advice on investment strategies, tax mitigation and estate planning. It has decades of experience advising British expatriates in Spain. Contact Paul Montague on 922 716 079 or paul.montague@blevinsfranks.com. www.blevinsfranks.com
The famous ‘Cláusula Suelo’ You may have heard people talking about the “clausula suelo” on mortgages recently and wondered what it´s all about. Basically, the European economy, including mortgages, should be driven by the Euribor interest rate, but many Spanish banks capped this with a maximum and minimum limit. Although technically not illegal because you have signed at a Notary to confirm your agreement to its inclusion, it is rather a matter of whether this was done with full transparency that is the issue here. Not everyone has one of these clauses included in their mortgage, and those that do need to be aware of their options. Many banks are now offering to reduce people’s monthly repayments, but in return are insisting that they sign a document to say that they won’t make any further claim.
Dresses, gowns and more
Rosa Clará, the internationally-recognised store for elegance and quality, has recently opened its first shop in the Canary Islands, situated on Calle Juan Manuel Durán in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Rosa Clará retails high-quality wedding dresses, party gowns, cocktail dresses, Holy Communion gowns, and all related shoes, bags, veils and accessories. The new store in Las Palmas has a 150m2 sales floor where excellent personalised service is provided alongside their stunning range of dresses. The simple, black and white décor brings an elegant touch that characterises the brand and gives prominence to their seasonal collections. Rosa Clará entered the bridal sector almost 20 years ago, opening their first wedding shop in Barcelona. This new take on bridal wear revolu-
Photo: Svilen Milev / FreeImages.com
Sponsored by the Free Advice Centre Tenerife
The most important thing is to make an informed decision regarding the ‘cláusula suelo’ situation
The problem with this is, if the Supreme Court decides that the banks need to repay all ‘overpaid’ interest, the signing of this document will prevent you from claiming against them in the future: A case of short term gain, but long term losses. The other pending issue is whether any such overpayment should revert to 2013 when the first ‘cláusula suelo’ ruling was
made (which balanced against the cost of claiming against the bank probably isn´t very interesting), or whether it must be repaid from the beginning of the mortgage, which may be a considerable amount of money! Every case is different, because some people would really welcome a reduction in their monthly repayments under current economic circumstances,
and for anyone still with a long term to run on their mortgage, this may represent a significant saving. And any decision about whether, or what, the banks have to repay may be a long time coming. The most important thing is to make an informed decision, taking into account your personal circumstances. For example, how much the reduction would be per month, and how long you have to run on your mortgage. Feel free to visit the Free Advice Centre Tenerife for clarification or further advice. FACT operates from an office inside Wheeler Dealers in Las Chafiras, and in each edition Sue McDonald will be writing about issues that affect all of us living in Tenerife. If you have something you would like to discuss, write to Island Connections at: editorial@ic-news. com or call in to the Fact Office at Wheeler Dealers any mornn ing, Monday to Friday.
Rosa Clará opens first Canarian store
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Facebook input
Pushing Puerto’s port plans
Tenerife’s President Carlos Alonso recently met with representatives for the northern town of Puerto de La Cruz to discuss plans for the expansion of the port. An environmental assessment is being conducted alongside pending permissions from the coastal authority, and if all requirements are met the region will see an investment of €36.5 million initially for projects inland, with a further €120 million planned for the majority of works taking place at the port site. “The island government is overseeing this project with strong commitment, proving that this administration is more than just words, and acts on its promises. We will ensure that Puerto’s new port becomes a reality!” Alonso said. The island President announced that further meetings will take place in early April with the aim of developing the best project possible for the town. Puerto de La Cruz mayor Lope Afonso praised the meeting as “productive” and expressed his delight at the recently set up public Facebook group called ‘El Muelle del Puerto’, where the Tenerife government is asking local residents to participate in plans and offer feedback. After only a few days the group had over 2,300 members with new ones added daily. For many years the project has faced delays, with Carlos Alonso personally championing the cause throughout, and vowing to bring it to completion. n
The port’s Facebook page has already attracted over 2,300 members
Tourism chief speaks out
Over 1.6 million loyal visitors praised
More than 1.6 million tourists have visited the Canaries for a holiday at least ten times, a senior tourism official has revealed. Interviewed in the El Día newspaper, the head of the Canarian agency that has the job of designing promotion campaigns to attract holidaymakers described the loyal tourists as the Islands’ “gold star visitors”. “We have repeat figures that any destination would love. Around 35 per cent of all tourists have already been at least once and 10 per cent have been at least ten times, in many cases to the same island” said María Méndez, adding that such a clear love affair with the Canaries should be used to better effect by the tourism authorities. Méndez explained that, while certain islands had their specific markets in terms of tourists (Britons and Russians in Tenerife, Germans and Scandinavians in Gran Canaria for example) and marketing drives needed to focus on those nationalities, a concerted effort was required to brand the Canaries as a single holiday destination. n
Photo: CanaryCont/FreeImages.com
BUSINESS
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Rosa Clará recently opened its first Canarian store in Las Palmas
tionised the sector, and franchised Rosa Clará shops soon sprang up throughout Spain and the rest of the world. The company continues its inter-
national expansion plan with new stores soon opening in Angola (Luanda), Kazakhstan (Astana), Brazil (Sao Paulo), and Egypt (Cairo).
Currently, the Rosa Clará Group has 136 stores and 3,500 outlets around the world. For more information visit: www.rosan clara.es.
From blue skies to a colourful plant world, to picturesque architecture: the Canary Islands have much to offer
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
BUSINESS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
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Promotion
Spanish 2015 Income Tax Campaign begins By Octavio Cabrera, If payments occurring from This is a matter of great sig- exempted limited would be management of the activity, an opportunity to make a comDirector of Cabrera Rodríguez Lawyers & Tax Advisers. Lawyers, Accountants, Experts in tax and business planning, international transactions and investments. On April 6 the term to submit the Personal Income Tax and Wealth Tax for 2015 started. The first exclusively involves Spanish tax residents, whilst the second bears upon both residents and non-residents. For non-residents it entails only the assets located in Spain. For this reason, from Cabrera Rodríguez, we want to focus now on some essential aspects to be considered regarding this matter. The deadline for submission of declarations is June 30, 2016. Concerning the terms and requirements for the declaration, we would like to emphasise some important information, as follows: The procedure to obtain the draft return through the Tax Office website has not changed and it can be obtained by filling in the mobile telephone number and information included in the last tax declaration, for 2014, under the numeric code 490. This fiscal data can also be obtained via an electronic certificate, and by using the Cl@ ve system (similar to the electronic certificate but works with a password code which allows access to the system).
the declarations (Personal Income Tax and Wealth Tax) are settled by direct debit into a bank account, then the deadline to confirm drafts and submit declarations ends on June 25, 2016.
nificance for those who, during a calendar year, spend some periods in Spain and some time abroad. In these cases, a thorough study of the particular circumstances of each taxpayer is necessary.
Octavio Cabrera Toste Director, Lawyer and Tax Adviser
Generally speaking, people who must comply with the Personal Income Tax declaration (hereinafter IRPF, as per the Spanish acronym) are those considered as fiscal residents in Spain. The tax regulations establish some specific criteria that should be analysed for each particular case in order to define ‘resident’ status as an IRPF taxpayer. The generalised criteria rely on the fact of having spent more than 183 days in Spanish territory during one calendar year.
Of the most important novelties introduced by the latest fiscal reform, one of the first to be outlined is the modification on how to determine an obligation to declare. A declaration is mandatory for those taxpayers who receive salaries/ professional incomes above €20,000 per year, coming from the same payer or from several payers if the amounts received from the second payer and the rest exceed €1,500 per year. In the event that this amount is exceeded, then the
€12,000 gross per year instead of €22,000. It is also important to take into account the obligation to declare, in certain situations, pensions that originate from abroad which are received by taxpayers. According to various specific requirements, an exemption could be applied. During the 2014 tax year, the question was subject to different verification proceedings filed by the Tax Office in order to review and regularise the situation of many IRPF taxpayers. In the current tax year, capital gains arising from transfers performed by taxpayers older than 65 years old are exempted, provided that the amount obtained is assigned to a lifelong income insurance and under certain conditions. In the same way it is appropriate to bear in mind that the exemption of €1,500 per year for dividends and shares on profits received by the taxpayer has been removed, and in consequence they are always subject to the obligation in this respect. In relation to incomes resulting from the rental of real estate when it is developed in the framework of an economic activity, it should be noted that the previous requirement for it to be considered as said economic activity was having at least one location which was exclusively dedicated to the purpose of carrying out the
and this requirement has since been removed. Yet, it is possible to apply a 60 per cent reduction on the positive net return resulting from the real estate rental. With regard to the Wealth Tax (hereinafter IP, as per the Spanish acronym), the obligation to Spanish residents and non residents to contribute refers to declaring the net wealth position (assets less liabilities), and ends on a formal obligation to file when any of the following circumstances take place: • When the liquidation ends on an amount due to be paid, bearing in mind there is an exemption limit worth €700,000 of net wealth. • When the overall value of the assets and rights which represent the wealth, including those exempt from taxation, exceeds €2,000,000, no matter whether it ends on an amount to be paid or not. It is essential to take in-depth advice regarding the fulfilment of these obligations because there are always aspects that, properly interpreted and duly applied, could result in significant savings. It should never be solely considered as the completion of a form, but as
plete revision of the tax situation of each person, both in the analysis of his/her incomes and wealth. Even more relevant is the necessary expediency for planning ahead for both the Income Tax and Wealth Tax by taking corrective measures or any mitigation that may be applicable, all of which should take place no later than the last quarter of any year. That is the moment when the foundation is laid to optimise the results of the statements now being presented.
Cabrera Rodríguez is a legal firm consisting of 23 professionals with a team of lawyers and economists who have extensive experience in fiscal advice and tax planning, with a strong presence in the south of the island for over 17 years, and with wide-ranging knowledge in all aspects of international taxation agreements and in permanent collaboration with reputed legal and tax firms in all EU countries. We are available for any consultation. Simply contact us on the following email address: info@cabrerarodriguez.com or visit our website: n Cabrerarodriguez.com.
Cabrera Rodríguez has offices in Santa Cruz and Adeje
HEALTH
Picture the scene: You are suddenly confronted with someone screaming and shouting at you. Despite not knowing you, this person – often on the say-so of another random being - has decided that you are the devil incarnate: Perpetrator of lies, peddler of all that is wrong in the world, and possibly a common thief too. Waving their arms around, making wild accusations, thrusting a screwed-up face into yours, screeching and pushing and shoving, they let you know in no uncertain terms that they are angry. Lost in a self-justifying rage, they will not even listen to a word you say. These incidents are upsetting no matter how ridiculous you know they are, and, whilst it is impossible to travel through life without some kind of contretemps at some point, it seems that uncontrolled anger is becoming a much more widespread phenomenon. Life in the Western world - whilst somewhat comfortable in many ways can be very stressful at times, invoking a kind of low-level fury which is often simply ignored. Nevertheless, it boils away under the surface, usually to explode at the next possible opportunity, but not necessarily at the appropriate person. Now, if you are on the receiving end of the above, call the police - there is no excuse for threatening or bullying behaviour under any circumstances. But, what if right now you are thinking to yourself: “Oh, no! That sounds like me - I’m so uptight I could scream. Every minute of every day, in fact”.
Managing anger that they should never be held responsible for their own actions. No matter how outrageous or unjust their acts, they repeat phrases such as ‘They made me do it’ and ‘It wasn’t my fault’ so many times that they have – almost – convinced themselves that everybody else really is to blame for all the wrong in their lives. This isn’t, of course, true. Every word we say, decision we make, move we carry out,
A hostile environment Unresolved anger affects our lives in every way, particularly our personal relationships: Parents scream at their children, lovers at each other, teenagers at their peers and elders. Strangers shriek at passersby, friends throw harsh words about, drivers rage at the simplest misdemeanour, even beloved pets get caught in the fallout at times. Anger is a fundamental and completely necessary emotion, and expressing it in a controlled manner is the healthiest way to deal with it. But, when someone is simply caught in a cycle of hate and resentment of their partners, jobs, parents, or life in general - they tend to treat life as a battlefield. This is not only damaging to their victims, but it’s been endlessly proven that chronic
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Take a pause to breathe rhythmically and slowly, trying to make the exhale slightly longer than the inhale. As you breathe out, consciously relax the whole body. This will not only have a palpable physiological effect – slowing the heart rate to more normal levels for instance – but the increased oxygen and blood flow will settle the mind. It will also give you a moment to consider your actions before you go any further.
– the very aspects which normally stop us from speaking or acting unacceptably. The basic rule, as ever, is everything in moderation. (Or not at all, in some cases).
Nap to be nice Sleeping enough is one the foremost ways of maintaining a calm composure. In these busy times it is often tempting to skip a few hours here
Uncontrolled anger is never appropriate Photo: Rene Asmussenfoto FreeImages.com
Mental health
Photo: Marek Bernat FreeImages.com
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If you find that you are constantly mad at the whole world, you need to get help
annoyance can contribute to serious health issues such as high blood pressure, headaches, and even heart attacks and strokes. So what can you do to minimise the harm to yourself and others?
Take responsibility As Isabel Clarke, clinical psychologist and specialist in anger management, says on the UK’s NHS website: “You can control your anger, and you have a responsibility to do so.” Yet, the recent development of the ‘blame culture’ didn’t come about by chance – a frightening proportion of the population seems convinced
or thought we think, creates our experiences in life. So, no, ‘they’ didn’t make you do it you chose to. Admitting to yourself that you are out of control is not an easy step but, without it, no changes can be made. Once you have, though, the next move is to either engage professional support – counselling can be a wonderful way to deal with personal issues – or to learn ways to help you recognise and control your moods yourself. Here are a few simple tricks to calm yourself down before you blow your top and – hopefully – to not get so angry in the first place.
Breathe easily When we are aggravated, our hearts beat faster, muscles tense ready for action and we receive a burst of hormones such as adrenaline, in preparation for running or standing our ground - the ‘fight or flight response’. We also breathe more rapidly too – so one of the ways to calm ourselves down is to simply control the breath.
Limit stimulants Alcohol is renowned for increasing antagonism in those already inclined that way – and even in some people who aren’t. Drinking to excess or taking certain recreational drugs will, at the very least, lower inhibitions
or there, but sleep is not only vital for physical wellbeing, it is essential for mental health – there is a very good reason that sleep deprivation is used as torture in cases where a ‘confession’ is being sought: an exhausted mind can no longer function properly and is wont to make exclamations which
What is anger management?
This is a term that is often misunderstood. It does not mean to suppress or internalise anger: it is used to describe the skills you need to not only recognise rage (in yourself and others) but to allow you to deal with it in a positive and appropriate manner. Anger management can help you recognise potential triggers as early as possible, to understand where our ingrained coping mechanisms (usually developed in childhood) are detrimental, and to learn how to manage feelings and methods of expressing them in a cool, calm and collected way. There are many different kinds of therapists and courses available that can help. Some involve one-to-one counselling; others group work. They may be ongoing or a series of sessions that can last anything from a couple of days to several weeks. If you feel you need assistance, do not be afraid to speak to your GP. They may be able to recomn mend some local therapists who could be of use.
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
When to ask for help
Be honest with yourself
Retrain the mind Repetitive negative thoughts are always damaging. Phrases such as: It’s not fair, EveryPhoto: Almar Evensen FreeImages.com
Photo: Rene Asmussenfoto FreeImages.com
Some anger is justified, undoubtedly. But people often use the word to describe other emotions such as fear: Panic and anxiety are often the lead-
are already tired, worried or stressed.
Chronic anger is a one-way street to physical and mental illness
According to psychologists, anger is out of control if any or several of the following situations occur frequently: You have regular arguments with those who are close to you, such as family, colleagues and friends. You have episodes of rage during which you deliberately break things. You make threats to people or property, or are actually violent. Your behaviour has led to any sort of criminal or civil transgression. And, no less important, you feel repeatedly angry but do not express it. You do not have to live like this. Make the choice for a happy n and healthy life and get help now.
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which invites people to treat you exactly how you are expecting them to - badly. If you can hear yourself saying or thinking any of the above on a regular basis, you may need some mind adjustment. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help us recognise damaging thought patterns, and to introduce more healthy and beneficial ones.
are provides a loving and supportive relationship. Forgiveness for slights or bad behaviour (real or otherwise) is also necessary for our personal happiness. Hatred and bitterness only hurt the hater. And anger and resentment are heavy burdens to bear; not to mention the fact that they are a one-way road to both mental and physical illness.
Battle the bitterness Resentment against others often arises because of them being who they are, rather than the way we think they should be. But, eventually, we have to accept that everybody is different and we cannot ‘make’ anybody be something else just to suit our own desires – we do not have the right to control the feelings,
No matter how well you try to behave personally, you will always encounter situations where you are treated unfairly. Such is life. Breathe deeply, relax, and let go of negative feelings. You cannot change how other people conduct themselves or think, but you can certainly control how you deal with it. At the end of the day, anger management is as much about
beliefs or behaviour of others. Ultimately, that is a very selfish approach and will only lead to pain on both sides, whilst accepting others for who they
building personal happiness and contentment as it is about coping with inappropriate rage. Happy people are less angry. n It’s a fact.
Alcohol and other stimulants can lead to aggression Anger management is as much about building contentment as it is about coping with inappropriate rage. Happy people are simply less angry, it’s a fact
ing forces behind a reaction, rather than actual annoyance. Taking a moment to ask yourself what is actually wrong may allow you to think and act differently in the future.
It is vital to have enough sleep to avoid losing control of your emotions
would otherwise not be voiced. Conversely, getting enough exercise can also help reduce stress, irritation and anxiety and help you sleep better.
express your feelings precisely and without restraint, without hurting others around you.
Use your imagination
Sometimes all we need is to share what is bothering us with someone who is not involved. Speaking to friends about your feelings can not only give you the necessary relief but can also be a great way to get a different perspective on a situation. Blinded by rage, it is sometimes hard to even consider the other person’s point of view. However, most of us, once told we are being unreasonable, will calm down significantly.
It is a well-studied phenomenon that being creative can help people deal with negative emotions. Make music, try painting, pottery or sculpture, or even join an expressive dance class. All of these can release tension and reduce feelings of anger. Writing can be an extremely therapeutic pastime as well. It also gives you the opportunity to
Talk it out
If you need to have a conversation that may make you angry then try to take control of the situation before it even happens. Make a list of what you want to say in advance, and plan to express it in an assertive, rather than aggressive, manner. Being able to refer to your notes can help you stick to the point without becoming bogged down in the other person’s responses. Also, try to avoid dealing with emotional issues when you, or the other people involved,
Photo: Scott Snyder FreeImages.com
Photo: Rodrigo Galindo FreeImages.com
Make a plan
one is out to get me, People are horrible, No one ever listens to me, I am useless, and No one likes me, will inevitably lead you to act in a way
HEALTH
36
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
+34 697 888 666 • m_delaflor@hotmail.com
Dear Dr. De La Flor,
I’m 66 and was diagnosed with osteoarthritis about five years ago. Is there any way of knowing how fast it’s going to advance? Thank you, B.G. Dear B.G., Unfortunately, there’s no way of accurately predicting your condition’s course. The prognosis will depend on a myriad of factors. The good news is that you’re very young. I read recently that Michelangelo, the Renaissance polymath, suffered from osteoarthritis in his hands. Unbeknownst to his polyarthritic body, his exigent schedule throughout his lifetime allowed him to remarkably prolong his chisel and hammer days. The genius mind remained bustling, and his joints operative till the brim of his 89th birthday! Any diagnosis, whether acute or chronic, should serve you and me as a spur, as a motivator to set higher health and fitness standards. The “ooh it’s too late” whining soliloquy should be foreign to our health vocabulary. In the dawn of his seventh decade, Mr. Buonarroti started his final, though most colossal, project – the dome at St. Peter’s basilica. It isn’t just a compliment to the sky line, it’s a perennial moment of the artist’s edifying attitude when tackling disease-related limitations. Best wishes. “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” Michelangelo 1475-1564
Dear Dr. De La Flor,
How do you know if occasional memory problems are ok or due to Alzheimer’s? Thanks for your help, Julia Dear Julia, As a rule of thumb, most mild memory changes are age-
related and of benign nature. However, memory problems that interfere with daily life are not. Customary early signs of any dementia can be very subtle, and may include: memory loss; repetition (i.e. asking the same questions); language problems (struggling to remember even basic words); personality changes (sudden mood swings or stop doing things we usually enjoy); disorientation and confusion (trouble completing familiar tasks, like shaving); odd behaviour (lack of hygiene). If your loved one is exhibiting any of these warning signs, don’t panic. Please schedule an appointment with his/her trusted GP for further evaluation. Warm regards. “You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear, as young as your hope, as old as your despair.” General Douglas MacArthur, US Army
Dear Dr. De La Flor,
I’m trying to encourage my spouse to lose weight. Is it true that the extra weight around the belly is worse than on the hips and thighs? Any advice? Thanks, B.D. Dear B.D., Yes it is. Excess visceral fat (aka belly fat) is far more detrimental for our health than the one around our hip/thigh area. Most fat is subcutaneous (just underneath the skin), but visceral fat is deep within the abdomen, surrounding abdominal organs. Belly fat disrupts the balance and functioning of certain hormones, thus raising chances of metabolic problems (diabetes), cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancers. Your encouragement to him is invaluable and praiseworthy. Keep it up! Best wishes
Dr. De La Flor Facts
Thumbs Up By Dr. De La Flor
Sneaky depression triggers
As decades go by, risk for the B12 blues or chronic fatigue increases because we may not have enough stomach acid to release vitamin B12 from food. B12 plays a key role in energy levels, nerve healing, mood swing control, memory loss and cardiovascular health.
Scalp tenderness
It can be caused by a number of reasons, ranging from dandruff to fungal/bacterial infection, infestations, or commonly used home products. Flaky/ itchy skin, prickling, burning, or tingling sensations are common symptoms. Identifying triggers is essential to ward off a chronic attack (soaps, metals, cosmetics, laundry detergents, hair products…).
Grocery savvy
Wisely choosing our treats will allow us to use them more often. Low-fat popcorn is an excellent treat. They are delicious, filling, crunchy, fibrerich and fun!
Live better, longer,
fuller… “Seek opportunities to show you care. The smallest gestures often make the biggest difference.” John Wooden, 1910-2010, The Pyramid of Success
C.S. Lewis,… and the problem of pain “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”
Coaching Corner By Dr. De La Flor Occasionally, health becomes number One. Safety is indeed number One in Formula One. One pilot is at the very core of the monocoque. One pilot sheltered by 60 layers of proficient engineers safeguarding his health with all their heart, with all their soul, with all their mind and… with all the strength of 60 layers of crash-protecting, energyabsorbing carbon-fibre structures. Most of us throw opinions, few show facts, fewer speak the truth. Few, indeed very few, utter inconvenient hardto-swallow facts. Standing at two hundred and three centimetres, JKG was much more than a towering shadow in the Camelot administration. John Kenneth Galbraith was a prince, JFK was the Rex. It was the not-so-distant 60s. A decennium later, JKG claimed that in his realm more die of too much food than of too little. Such sombre disparity keeps augmenting today, and still stands as unpalatable as the Dallas shooting.
ReSOLUTION
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
By Dr. De La Flor For the next fortnight, you and I can ponder how much we care about our own health. You see, someone assumed two millennia ago that we do take great care of our own self. Hereinafter, his ambitious maxim was set as a Litmus test when dealing or taking care of others. However, does that hold true for you and me? Paraphrasing JFK’s inaugural speech advice… Ask not what your doctor can do for your health, ask what you can do for your own health. “… you shall love your neighbour as yourself.” I.N.R.I. (Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum)
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 on: 0034 697 888 666 or email him to register.
Pickup Point
Frutería Miraverde
Pedro Alegre Alonso Pilates trainer ä Physiotherapist ä
Tel. 699 521 649
pedroalegrealonso@hotmail.com
©2014 FLN
Excess belly fat is far more detrimental to our health than that around our hip/thigh area
“Our body is a machine for living. It is geared towards it; it is its nature. Let life go on in it unhindered and let it defend itself; it will be more effective than if you paralyze it by encumbering it with remedies.” Leo Tolstoy, Russian novelist, essayist
©2014 FLN
Photo: Geo Cristian / FreeImages.com
Dear Dr. De La Flor
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
FASHION
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
37 All photos: www.prshots.com
Double focus
Showtime for legs
A knee-length skirt can be really sexy. From Jacques Vert
The two button plackets are real eyecatchers on this skirt. From La Redoute The 70s are back in fashion! From Primark Reminiscent of the Spanish national heroine Carmen. A swinging style with plenty of legroom. From Joy
A nude shade and delicate lace. From Betty Barclay
A different kind of suit: in dark denim with mini skirt. From Mint Velvet
Mini in a warm red with patch pockets. From Matalan
Denim skirts in different variants: sometimes buttoned, sometimes zipped. From Marks & Spencer The weather we enjoy in the Canary Islands means that skirts, shorts and dresses do not have a half year break – as they do in northern Europe, for example. Nevertheless, summer in the Canaries is traditionally the
time for skirts, but how much leg you choose to show depends very much on the occasion and personal taste. And even if it does sound a little strange, after you reach a certain age you may not need the micro-
mini skirt any more, even if you do still have a good figure: The so-called Italian length skirts that end just above the knee are just as sexy. What is important is to wear shoes or sandals with a heel. In addition
to the mini and Italian skirts, the wide swinging models are also back in fashion this season. This is great, especially on really hot days, because your body benefits from the airflow n generated by the skirt.
If you like it mini, then go for really short. From Miss Selfridge
PETS
38
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Adopt, don’t buy
Animal charities’ round up daily, 10am to 4pm); Golf del Sur (Golf Park, just before the lottery kiosk. Open Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm, Sunday 10:30am to 3:30pm). Find us at: www.livearico.com, on Facebook, or join us on Twitter: twitter.com/live_arico.
Live Arico adoption
New home for Tejita
Tejita is currently at Live Arico (PAWS) waiting for a home
Tejita was first spotted in Los Abrigos six months ago. She was then seen a couple of kilometres up the coast at La Mareta. Most recently she moved a bit further to the new commercial centre at Sotavento near Playa La Tejita. Tejita is a podenco and less than two years old. Can you give her a reason to trust humans again? n For more information call Sue on 629 388 102.
Cats Welfare Tenerife We are now in the midst of the season when kittens are born. This will continue throughout the summer and is a very busy time for us.
Acción del Sol We have again experienced an influx of a high number of puppies, all of which need fourhourly feeds, therefore we have been very busy! We are desperately low on puppy milk so if anybody would like to donate or help us with the many hungry mouths to feed then please call the number below for more information. Many of Acción del Sol’s dogs are sent to Germany for homing, especially the bigger ones as they have a better chance of finding new homes there. Marion is always looking for people that travel to Germany with Condor, Air Berlin or TUIfly that would like to help. It doesn’t cost you anything except a little bit of time at the airport while Acción del Sol staff check the dogs in. The reservation will be
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
made and paid for by the charity. You will be met by Aktion Tier staff in Germany who will then transport the dogs to their destination. If you are travelling and would like to help, please call the refuge on 922 778 630. We are always in need of dog food, blankets, towels, dog toys, etc. The refuge is situated directly under the Eolica Park where the wind turbines are, at Exit 52 on the TF1 north bound, which is after the El Médano junction. We are open to the public Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 2pm to 5pm. On Saturdays we’re open from 1pm till 4pm. The refuge is closed on Wednesdays and public holidays. Email: teneriffa@aktiontier.org. Or visit the Facebook page: ‘action tier Acción del Sol’.
Live Arico (PAWS) Thank you Top Square! We recently raised a fantastic €560. Many thanks to the entertainers: Aidy Evans, Steve Delsey, Nigel Walker, Colin Stevens, Jay Francis, Tanya Tevaro, Coco Page, and Debbie Diamond. Also thanks to Derrick and Vicki Lynes, Becky and John,
Acción del Sol is looking for people that travel to Germany who can help transport dogs Cats Welfare Tenerife needs foster carers for their large number of cats and kittens
and Cathy and Debbie for their invaluable help getting the money in. To everyone who came and supported, once again you didn’t let us down and we hope we gave you a good evening. On May 7 we have a fundraiser at Amanda’s Bar near our charity shop in San Eugenio, opposite Hotel la Niña. The event starts at 2pm, so come along and have fun in the sun and help raise much needed funds. There will be lots of top acts as well as a raffle, tombola and more. Hosted by Derrick Lynes, you will be entertained by such names as Suzy Q, Kerry Railton, Simon King, Suzi Moore, Steve Delsey, Emma Blacka, The Mighty Wadds, Uproar, Luke Towler, Jon Gibson and Indianna. We will also have some designer clothes on sale. Bag a bargain at our shops in: San Eugenio (opposite Hotel La Niña. Open Monday to Saturday, 10 to 4pm); Los Cristianos (Calle Reveron, near the Thistle and Dragon Bar. Open
Despite the fact that Cats Welfare neuters many hundreds of stray cats every year there are still too many kittens born. The easiest way to help reduce the overwhelming numbers is to have your own cat neutered and encourage others to do the same. Please remember that at five months, a female can become pregnant when she is still a baby herself. Unwanted cats and kittens often result in emergency
phone calls to us by concerned residents and holiday makers. We are busy all year round but during kitten season our resources like food, money and foster space are stretched to the limit. If you would like to join our foster care team please contact us, we always need more carers. We provide food, litter, vet bills and find them permanent homes, etc. All you provide is the cuddles. If you would like to adopt or find out more, please call or WhatsApp Theresa: on 680 475 500 (9am to 6pm, seven days a week) or message us on our website: www. cats-welfare-tenerife.com/ contacts. If you are thinking of getting a cat please consider an adult. They are all neutered and have a microchip and vaccinations, and as usual all cats go on a trial so you can be sure you’ve made the right decision. We recommend that owners have a microchip for their cat so that it has permanent
ownership details if it were to get lost. Even if your cat is a house cat you never know when it could slip through an open door or window. If you have good quality/condition items to donate please consider them for our charity shop. Smaller items can be dropped into the shop on San Blas in Golf del Sur (Behind Hiperdino). It is open seven days a week, 10am to 6pm. Saturdays, 11am to 4pm. If you don’t have transport or have large bulky items such as furniture and household effects, please ring Mark on 636 590 557 and he will arrange collection from you.
K9 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.
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
FARMERS MARKET
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
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 8am - 2pm Next to council offices Saturday 8am – 2pm. Plaza del Centro Comercial 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
39
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.
40
HOROSCOPES | CLASSIFIEDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Horoscope for period: April 14 to April 27 Aries 21.3 - 20.4 This is a great time for getting to grips with your financial affairs on all levels. You have a tendency to be flippant about your outgoings but it is important to make the effort to be aware of, and to manage, your spending more effectively.
Contacts
Taurus 21.4 - 20.5 With a bias towards relying on ‘facts’ rather than your intuition, you can occasionally make mistakes in reading a situation. This has certainly been true in the past, but you are approaching a time of renewal and will be learning new social skills.
Novelty in Las Galletas, exuberant Italian girl, 27 years old, big breasts, kisses, full French, Greek without limits. Available for erotic massage. Only for special gentlemen. Available 24 hours. Tel: 634 727 121.
Gemini 21.5 - 21.6 Your recent courage and decisiveness has not only worked well for yourself, but has also had a positive effect on your friends and family. Sometimes, the hardest-seeming path turns out to be the easiest and this is definitely the case for you in the long run.
I’m Diana, a pretty Latin girl, 23 years old, good body, pleasing, French, positions, massages, available 24 hours. I’m waiting for you in my private apartment in the centre of Los Cristianos. Home/hotel visits available. Tel: 605 072 917.
Cancer 22.6 - 22.7 You are about to be taken well out of your comfort zone in a series of happenings which will make you question your very way of being. Try to understand that this period is necessary and accept it with grace: the outcome will be worth it in the end. Leo 23.7 - 23.8 Always open and buoyant, you are particularly on form at the moment. This bodes well for current or imminent projects, especially if they involve others as your boundless energy and enthusiasm will inspire those around you – hopefully to the good. Virgo 24.8 - 23.9 According to Newton’s Third Law: “Every action has an equal and opposite reaction”. If you are undergoing difficulties at the moment you need to look carefully at how your behaviour may have created them, and what you personally can do to resolve them. Libra 24.9 - 23.10 You are experiencing a burst of energy that will help propel you firmly towards that which you wish to achieve the most. Now is possibly the best time this year for making positive changes: try not to let the moment pass. Your determination will win through. Scorpio 24.10 - 22.11 You are going through a phase of self-pity that is causing problems for yourself and everyone around you. It is time to realise that you are not at the mercy of others at all – It is you who is the instigator of this difficult situation. You need to accept that and take control. Sagittarius 23:11 - 21.12 The pace of your life at the moment is simply frantic – there are that many changes going on that it would be easy to feel a little insecure and nervous. However, all you have to do is trust your instincts – you know that your chosen path is the right one. Capricorn 22:12 - 20.01 Positive outcomes are not gained in life by our trying to force them, but from our willingness to put the effort in to create them. You cannot just sit by and expect everything to fall into place. It is time to decide just how much you wish to fulfil your dreams. Aquarius 21.1 - 20.2 You are feeling a little defensive right now, so are prone to seeing the down side of every situation, rather than concentrating on the good. You need to take a little time out for yourself to renew your perspective and allow yourself the opportunity to recoup energies. Pisces 21.2 - 20.3 Moderation is the key for you this month, and by balancing all aspects of your life you will be able to move forward with confidence. It is time to tackle any problems you may have, especially if they are health related. Do not leave it too late.
Come and enjoy our erotic body to body massages with a happy ending! Unforgettable experience, beautiful Polish ladies. Opening hours 10am to 10pm, Playa Paraiso, Costa Adeje area. Tel: (0034) 662 960 065. www.edentenerife. com.
Los Cristianos, 2 girls: well built Russian 35 years old, and a slim Ukranian 23 years old. Peaceful, discreet apartment. Apartments Royal, in front of the bus station, Los Cristianos. Call first. We speak a little English. Tel: 626 712 090. Los Cristianos, Patricia from Venezuela returns. Big breasts, French, positions, kisses, vibrators, massages, private apartment in Calle Noruega, near the Altavista supermarket in Los Cristianos or I can come to you 24 hours a day. Tel: 650 442 665. Los Cristianos, Areceli, age 25, no limits, French, positions, kisses, Greek, private apartment in Calle Noruega. Tel: 664 099 043. Los Cristianos, Paula, Latin girl. Enjoy my kisses, body, vibrators, no limits. Available 24 hours in my private apartment, or I can come to you. Tel: 604 115 052. Los Cristianos, Latin redhead. Real beauty with no limits. 23 years old. Calle Noruega, near Supermarket Altavista, Los Cristianos. Tel: 672 518 835.
Los Cristianos, Silvia, blonde, Spanish and complete. My services are inclusive. I’m waiting for you in my apartment, or I can come to you. Tel: 617 035 582. English model, showgirl, professional striptease, quality service, general entertainment, stag nights, dominatrix, fetish, luxury conditions, visits 24 hours, escort service available. Tel: 697 227 139.
EROTIC MASSAGE in beautiful surroundings. Total Relaxation! Choose your delight – Tantric, lingam, body to body or 4 hands. Visit our website: www.withyouforevermassage.com or Tel: 722 357 924 (English), 663 566 105 (Spanish and Russian). 10am to 11pm. We are in Adeje. Los Cristianos, great feminine body, dissolute, active, passive, versatile, French, black kiss, private, very discreet. Active domination, hot. Golden skin. I speak English. Contact me by WhatsApp or message on 625 512 094. Tantric and Thai massage with a happy ending (no sex) at Las Cardones, San Isidro, second exit after the airport. Shower and tea service offered. There’s the possibility of a 4hands massage. For appointments call 631 801 293.
Los Cristianos, Ukranian, provocative blonde, escort, great body only for demanding men. Incalls or outcalls. All my services will fulfill your dreams. Just call me. Tel: 602 631 367. Erotic massages, also Tantric and other erotic services with attractive German lady. Without rush. Nice location. Tel: (0034) 619 614 380. Liberal German couple invites you to erotic parties, also threesomes. Tel: (0034) 648 245 425. New trans, Zoraya, brunette, very affectionate and feminine, 24 hours, I do natural French, erotic games, I can be very active or passive, I’m well endowed and I like to give pleasure. 25 years old. Tel: 631 207 239.
To advertise your services with us, please call 922 75 06 09
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
The deadline for edition 770, which is published on 28th April, is 26th April. No classifieds will be taken after this date.
Head Office: Calle Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6º- first floor. Pol. Industrial Las Chafiras 38620 - San Miguel de Abona. Tel.: 922 75 06 09 Fax: 922 795 810 Office Hours: Mon-Frid 9:30 -16:30 hours
Classified Info Adverts for our Classifieds Section must be sent by email or hand delivered to the office. If you would like to advertise, please send your classified text to: classifieds@ ic-news.com. Alternatively, place your classified advert with one of our four agents: Now Tenerife.com in Golf del Sur, Redhound Bookshop in Los Cristianos, The Bookswop in Las Américas, Petras Deutscher Bücherstand in Puerto de La Cruz.
Rates: * Lineage classifieds: From 16 € * Small & Long Term: Ask for long term advertising (3, 6, 12 months) and our special discounts. * Further Options: color / boxed adverts. To Place your advert call: 922 75 06 09 You are welcome to come to our offices in Las Chafiras to place small ads. Card payment facilities are available.
Island Connections Online: www.islandconnections.eu
Classifieds Deadline Next Edition
41
BLOCK BUSTERS
General Services
WE UNBLOCK ALL TYPES OF DRAINS
internal and external using our high pressure jets and cameras.
Call
647 928 223 Massage and more. Offer: 60 minutes body massage €36. Couples, four hands, lava stones tantric massages, etc. Playa de las Américas, Ernesto Sarti no.8, across from Iberostar Hotel Torviscas Playa. Tel. 602 608 626 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 After school classes, help or 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.
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
Masonic Lodge - Ave Fenix No.73. New meetings starting in October 2015 on the fourth Thursday of the month. If interested, all visitors are welcome to come down. For further information, lodge secretary John Donaldson is available to contact on Tel: (+34) 922 178 091 or Email: ave.fenix73@gmail.com
Integrated Tax Planning and Wealth Management since 1975
922 716 079 www.blevinsfranks.com
Santiago del Teide Lions Club Bargains galore From clothes and children’s toys to kitchenware and books – there are plenty of great deals on second-hand 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.
Qualified specialist from Germany helps you with back pain, neck pain, sciatica, headaches and insomnia. Tel. 0034 699 15 61 47 (ask for Eugene). Spanish native teacher and interpreter gives Spanish lessons at reasonable prices. Tel: 747 790 001. k.arim555@ live.com
Island connections media group s.l. www.islandconnections.eu
CLASSIFIEDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
MASONIC MEETINGS Logia Ave Fenix Nº 73 Edificio Simón, Los Cristianos. Meetings every fourth Tuesday. We are back in October! All Visitors welcome Contact John Donaldson (Secretary):
(+34) 922 178 091 or ave.fenix73@gmail.com
Advert Placement www.islandconnections.eu
Spanish and English Lawyers
Conveyancing • Inheritance & Wills Family Law • Criminal Law Civil Litigation & Personal Injury Timeshare • Tax & Commercial law
T: E:
922 719 520
tenerife@decottalaw.net
Av. de Los Pueblos, Residencial Villaflor B-20, San Eugenio
www.decottalaw.net
CLASSIFIEDS
42
Rental Classifieds Storage rooms for rent, Los Cristianos, Torviscas and Fañabe, from 7m2 to 12m2. 24 hour video surveillance, easy access. 3 months: €150 pm, 6 months: €100 pm, 1 year: €65 pm. Call Luis on 617 872 957. Restaurant for traspaso. Newly completed and
fully furnished, beautiful and well-established restaurant in Los Cristianos available for traspaso. Perfect location. Price negotiable €70,000. Tel: 611 205 058.
Apartment for rent, 1 bedroom, fully equipped, near Playa Martiánez, in Puerto de La Cruz, €470 /month + electricity. Tel: Theresa on 606 105 101. Winter letting Puerto de La Cruz Studio apartment, 24 hour concierge, pool, sea views. Minimum three month contract. €500 per month. 669 652 149 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 Studio for rent, in quiet Bio Finca , 25 sqm, in Los
Realejos, close to Restaurant Monasterio, furnished, balcony, parking, garden, terrace, SAT TV, Internet, €280/month, incl. additional costs. Tel: 616 802 861 or 699 044 668.
Looking to exchange or rent: Luxury 85m2 apartment in Travemünde (on the Baltic Sea, Germany) in exchange for 2/3 bedroom apartment in Tenerife for 4-6 weeks January/ February 2017. Our property is located on the 2nd floor overlooking the sea and the city and furnished to a very high standard. There is a Wellness and Spa on resort and underground parking. We are looking for a 2/3 bedroom apartment in Tenerife in a nice complex with heated pool and Spa facilities. Email: m.perling@gmx.de or 0049 179 51 75 987. Apartment and Villa for rent in Tenerife south. Tel: (0034) 662 507 191.
SALEs Classifieds For sale, Bungalow 160m2 - 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 For sale
www.teneriffa-fincas.net
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036 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 Beautiful seafront apartment for private sale. One bedroom, garage, sea
views and in a sunny position. Price: €120,000. No agents. Tel: 922 752 759. Mobile: 608 425 426.
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
Property for Sale Playa Honda 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
€ 122,000 Alan: 634 098 838
30€/month
Tel 629 244 958 € 155,000
Roadside Cafe Bar High profile main road bar located opposite one of Tenerife major parks and situated on the side of a busy main thoroughfare to one of the South’s largest residential areas.
Alan: 634 098 838
Wonderful rustic house available for holiday rental in San Miguel de Abona. 4 bed rooms, independent flat on the roof. Very well furnished with amazing views. Please call for further information. €70 per night for 2 people. €15 per extra person maximum 5 people. Close to the local town, restaurants, bars, cultural centre.
Tel. 616 460 728
visit
One bedroom apartment, tiled throughout, American-style kitchen, separate bedroom and terrace. Located in the center of Las Americas within 3 minutes walk from the beach.
Freehold
€ 188,000
For daily news, updates and event information
Las Américas
British Style Bar
Playa de Las Américas Located just off front line, excellent reputation, regular clientele. Terrace for approximately 10 tables and refurbished interior in timber. Bar walls adorned with memorabilia. Includes store room and Ladies & Gents toilet facilities.
€ 25,000
Alan: 634 098 838
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
Situations Vacant / wanted
Instructor required to teach essential life skills and thinking for young kids, in south Tenerife. Diplomas not needed. Please send CV to lin@ rebl.biz. Tel: 696 713 635 Lin.
CLASSIFIEDS | PASTIMES
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
Are looking for international girls to model swimwear in the south of Tenerife for an immediate start. Must be presentable and speak good English, other languages are an advantage. PR experience essential. Daily work, salary, commissions paid and contracts given.
Call José, between 11am and 5pm on 606 181 946 or 922 751 021
(For Crossword and Sudoku solution see pag 40)
Sales staff needed to represent a printing and design company in the south of Tenerife, applicants must be presentable and have their own transport. For more details please call Jon on 604 103 048
Veterinary practice for sale / Tenerife south Fully equipped veterinary practice (small animals) for sale leasehold, due to health issues. The practice is located on the busy main street of a small town in the South of Tenerife. It measures 85m2 and has a spacious waiting area, a small shop, a consulting room, toilet, laboratory, operating room, etc. It is sold including stock, furniture, equipment and instruments. The only vet in town. Good customer base. All licenses and permits are fully up to date. Interested? Contact 667 811 462 or veterinariotenerifesur@outlook.com.
publisher@icmedia.eu
Across
Vehicles To advertise please call 922 75 06 09
Porsche Panamera 2012 / 36.000 km 3.0L- 3.0 D/ Automatic Diesel /Sport 4doors / Color : White 1 Owner
€69,000
43
LA PEPA FOOD MARKET Av. San Francisco, Los Cristianos, Arona, Tenerife South
1 - of first rank (7) 4 - shallow carrying containers (5) 7 - permeate gradually (5) 8 - soft silky fibres (7) 9 - release (4) 10 - sphere (3) 11 - merriment (4)
15 - criterion (9) 17 - soil; uncleanness (4) 19 - ancient (3) 20 - entice (4) 24 - pierces (7) 25 - near (5) 26 - very strong winds (5) 27 - expressions (7)
Down
1 - undulation (5) 2 - meaninglessness (7) 3 - yearn for (4) 4 - ballet skirt (4) 5 - coral reef (5) 6 - distrust (7) 8 - pupa stage of butterfly (9) 12 - are (anag) (3)
13 - attempt; offer (3) 14 - evading (7) 16 - horns (7) 18 - push away (5) 21 - pours with rain (5) 22 - a positive (4) 23 - mar; scratch (4)
MOTORING
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Everyday motoring
What to do in an emergency By Wheeler Dealers
or their approach, even if they don´t yet have their sirens on.
• If they do switch their sirens on, you need to take evasive action to clear a path
for them, but also to do so in a responsible and controlled manner.
SEAT
Suzuki
SEAT, the only company that designs, develops, manufactures and markets cars in Spain, has finally announced that it is once again returning after-tax profits. The brand underwent a major mission last year towards reaching sustainable profitability and the strategy evidently paid off as the company closed 2015 with an after-tax profit of €6 million, compared to a €66 million loss in 2014. Growth in sales and a product mix with a higher contribution margin were the two main driving forces behind the change, allowing SEAT to post a turnover of €8.3 billion, 11 per cent more than the previous year - the company’s best ever result and doubling the revenue of 2009. Luca de Meo, president of the SEAT Executive Committee, stated during the pres-
For lovers of classic motorbikes there is great news from Suzuki which has recently added the TL1000S to its Vintage Parts Programme, meaning it will be much easier to keep these beloved bikes on the road. Owners and restorers are now able to order all available components through Suzuki’s dedicated eBay department, which is especially good tidings for those living in the Canary Islands where finding parts for discontinued motorbikes is never simple. The Suzuki TL1000S was introduced by the brand in 1997 and was manufactured for a total of four years. One of its strong, and most enduring, points was its V-twin engine which is still used in Suzuki’s modern SV1000s and V-Strom 1000s.
Going well
Part and parcel
Members of the SEAT Executive Committee with the new Ateca
entation of the 2015 annual results that: “SEAT’s progress in 2015 was twofold – not only did we obtain a positive result for the first time since 2008, but we achieved it during a year of major challenges. We are implementing the right strategy that enables us to face the challenge of sustaining long-term profitability with optimism. We have a brilliant future ahead of us thanks to the launch of new
When an emergency vehicle is approaching: If you are travelling on a two-way road, move over to the right. If you are on a one-way road with two lanes, the vehicle on the right should move further over to that side, and the one on the left, further over to the left
involve pulling to the side of a smaller road, or moving to the right or left of the motorway to allow them to pass through the middle. • If you cannot move out of the way, in heavy traffic for example, consider staying where you are, as the emergency vehicle may be able to drive around you. Above all, use common sense and allow the emergency vehicle the priority they need. Based on their years of experience in the car industry, Wheeler Dealers will be providing useful advice and in-depth information for the coming editions of Island Connections. Wheeler Dealers, Las Chafiras. Call them on: 605 318 143. n
products and the integration of new technologies in both the field of mobility as well as connectivity.” The growth in sales for the third year in a row, exceeding the 400,000 vehicle barrier in a single year, was the result of recuperation in southern European markets such as Spain and Italy, the fifth consecutive year of growth in Germany, SEAT’s main market, and the brand’s success in Mexico. n
The Suzuki TL1000S was introduced in 1997 and manufactured over the next four years
It is one of a number of iconic machines included on the store as part of Suzuki’s Vintage Parts Programme, along with the likes of the RGV250, GT750, and the original GSX-R750F. Launched in 2013, Suzuki’s programme is aimed at making owning, maintaining, and
restoring classic machines from Suzuki’s history even more straightforward, by listing parts still available, as well as making service and owners’ manuals convenient to download. For more information, visit: www.suzuki-gb.co.uk/vintagen parts.
©2016 FLN
Did you know that it is an offence not to give way to an emergency vehicle? And quite right too, when you think it could literally be a matter of someone´s life or death! It sounds obvious to say that you should move out of the way if you hear sirens and see lights coming your way, whether it´s an ambulance, a fire engine or a police car, but it´s easy to panic, especially if you are an inexperienced driver on Tenerife roads, so here are a few tips: • Emergency vehicles often don’t use their sirens and lights until they need to do so to clear a path through traffic, and they do so then so that people can take action in good time. As a good driver you should be aware of their presence,
• Be extra aware of your surroundings so that you can take evasive action if necessary before the emergency vehicle reaches you. • Don´t panic, but be ready to act. Be aware of other motorists. • Use your indicators to let other people know what you are doing (unusual in Tenerife, we know!) • Slow down, but do not brake rapidly as this may cause an accident. • Move out of the path of the emergency vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. This may
SPORTS NEWS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
Brain tumour scare
Kuric returns after layoff
Photo: Carlos Delgado; CC-BY-SA
Herbalife Gran Canaria are celebrating their best ‘signing’ of the season with the return of crowd favourite Kyle Kuric after a four-month layoff. As reported extensively here, Kuric was forced to stop playing back in early November after suffering dizziness and headaches during training. He was later diagnosed as having a brain tumour and underwent emergency surgery in a Barcelona hospital. Further operations in late November and December resolved the serious problem and he later returned to Gran Canaria to rejoin his team, commencing training in mid-March. He was re-registered with the league at the start of April and was called up by manager Aito García Reneses to the squad for the game against Rio Natura Monbus, although he did not get time on court. The call-up featured in all the top sports papers and sparked a flood of Welcome Back messages from Kuric’s fellow players. n
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Iberostar Tenerife
The giant-killing continues Iberostar Tenerife’s impressive latter half of the basketball season continued into April with a second successive giant-killing feat. The La Laguna outfit defeated CajaLaboral at home to do the double over the Basque side, who days earlier had qualified for the Last-eight stage of the EuroLeague. The win came on the heels of Iberostar’s historic victory over Real Madrid in the previous game in the Santiago Martin Arena, which has become one of the most formidable venues in the ACB premiership. The rich vein of form has seen the Tenerife team
climb the table to occupy a play-off spot, which - if maintained until the end of the season - would be an incredible achievement bearing in mind that the club was forced to change coach in November after losing the first five fixtures. Spearheading the purple patch have been Argentina international Nico Richotti, and Javier Beirán, who is being tipped for a call up to the Spain squad for the Olympics in Rio de n Janeiro.
Photo: D. Rodríguez
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
Javier Beirán (in yellow) in action against CajaLaboral
UD Las Palmas
Rafael Cabrera-Bello
Golfer’s top form continues
Photo: Pvt pauline CC A-S A 3.0 UGL
Canarian golfer Rafael Cabrera-Bello is enjoying his best ever world ranking following his magnificent form in the first three months of the year. The Las Palmas professional showed that his runner-up spot in the Dubai Classic and eleventh place in the WGC Cadillac Championship were no fluke, by putting in an impressive performance in the Dell World Matchplay in Texas, finishing third behind winner Jason Day and finalist Louis Oosthuizen, and just ahead of Rory McIlroy. The performance gave him his biggest ever ranking points haul and lifted him to a career-best 36th in the world, affording him automatic entry to the Augusta Masters for the first time ever. He followed up with a superb fourth place in the Houston Open, finishing well ahead of world stars such as Jordan Speith. The Canarian is playing better than at any time in his career and is on course for a call-up to the European Ryder Cup team if he sustains the momentum n into the summer. Rafael Cabrera-Bello is enjoying his best ever world ranking
UD Las Palmas manager Quique Setién is set to have his contract extended after steering the side to virtual safety in recent weeks. Brought in to replace Paco Herrera back in the autumn after a horrendous start to the club’s first season in the top flight for 13 years, the 57-yearold had a difficult early period
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but his playing philosophy has endeared him to fans and has been accompanied by a string of impressive results, including a run of five wins in six games in March and early April. The brilliant form, including a sequence of away wins, lifted the Canarians clear of the drop zone, and survival will automatically trigger a clause that will
see Setién stay on until 2017. Talks are due to open soon to finalise the contract arrangements and club sources have expressed their delight at the upturn in fortunes. Las Palmas are aware that the manager’s reputation may well make him a target for bigger clubs and will be keen to resolve the situation as soon as possible. n
Photo: Doxcumenta CC0 1.0 UPDD
Kyle Kuric recently returned after a four-month layoff
Setién set for contract talks Setién has virtually steered Las Palmas to safety
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Ñandú Rugby Club
02/04/2016 Ñandú 45 - 0 El Médano Boatmen Venue: Tenerife Top Training T3 Top of the league, Ñandú was up against a powerful El Médano side who had only lost one match in the Canarian under 18s competition. Victory for Ñandú would seal first place in the league phase; a victory for The Boatmen would see them into second place with a semi-final against Las Palmas to decide the final positions. It was an exciting encounter between two teams in a local derby game. The game kicked off with Jacob Oakenfold kicking deep into El Médano territory allowing the front runners to exert pressure on the receiving kicker. Through a good chase, Ñandú held the line and turned the ball over through Mel Dehabre, who typified the work rate the forwards put in. In the first half, flankers Gabriel Córdoba and Mel Dehabre secured the ball in a total of 27 breakdowns, showing determination, effort and a work rate that every player should aspire to. The consequence of this concerted effort was to win 97
Team results
SPORTS NEWS | POOL LEAGUE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036
Derby day delight
the score board with the captain, Jacob Oakenfold, rounding off the game with a conversion of his own. The remaining two tries came from Facundo
Ñandú defeated the El Médano Boatmen with relative ease
per cent of the ruck ball and secure five turn overs. The Ñandú backline focussed on getting the ball into space at speed and at the right time. Coaches Jamie Whelan and Rachael Watson have spent the last few weeks on tactical control, and they were pleased with the boys’ efforts. On a narrow pitch, the backline had to adapt, using running lines that kept the midfield defenders tight and allowed the
ball through the centre channel for the full back, Francisco Ferryra, to hit space. This was a challenge, although they persevered and set up Fran for his maiden try. Further tries came from David Tevosyan and Eduardo Umpiérrez who scored two, taking his tally up to three in the league. Both wingers were confident in defence and decisive in attack. Tevosyan, who was playing only his fifth game of rugby, looked
All substitutes added to the match and put in a sterling effort to maintain pressure on a very strong El Médano side. The final score of 45-0 was
The Ñandú boys are enjoying life at the top
assured under the high ball as he countered with purpose, constantly keeping the Boatmen defence guessing. They benefited from the creative play and ambition of the two centres; Ryan Cox and Gabriel Trujilio. Ryan scored his first try of the season as he ran a perfectly executed support line, receiving an inside ball and firing through tackles to score. Trujilio scored four conversions to add a further eight points to
Patsouris, taking his try tally to nine. The constant pressure from the pack of forwards, led by Gregorio Prieto, ensured that the backs had a platform to perform on. Axel Moran and Gregor both showed development not only in skill but also in their reading of the game. They combined well with the other tight forwards to steal 100 per cent lineout balls in the second half.
testament to the efforts put in by the players, especially in the first half. The Boatmen rallied in the second, and proved how good they are by continuously testing the Ñandú defensive line and making incisive breaks to put the home side under pressure. If you would like further information about Ñandú, or have any ideas to help the team, please contact Paul on 664 n 361 058.
Tenerife Pool Super League
Division one results Summerland Elite returned to winning ways with an away victory at Scruffy’s, 6-4. Paddy won both singles frames and was the man of the match, helping to keep Elite in second place in the league. Legendry Jokers earned a well deserved draw against Marius & Lo, thanks to Ben and Matt winning their singles frames. Young Zac was in fine form, winning his two singles matches and winning the final frame for a share of the points. Legends B were away at Clouseaus, defeating them 82 to keep them in the mix for the runners-up spot. Sloops Bar also kept their faint hopes alive for a top three finish with a fine win over Britannia Inn (Callao Salvaje) by 6-4. Toby Jug Saints had a walkover against Dos Hermanos.
Division two results
Young Zac (left) has been in fine form
The Tavern trounced the Hunters 9-1 and cemented their position in the top half of the table, while the Hunters remain in the bottom three. Lupain Properties were held at home by bottom team Scruffy Macs (5-5). Lupain found themselves 3-0 down but Suresh managed to pull a frame back and then they won both the doubles matches to level at 3-3. They
soon found themselves 5-3 down, however, thanks to Victor and Suresh they managed to salvage a draw; their first all season (5-5). James Place closed to within seven points of Bar 180B, beating them 6-4. The George Bar hosted Camping Nauta, losing 7-3. Grandee O’Donnell suffered a shock defeat at home to Britannia Bar (Silencio) by 73, but remained clear of their closest rivals. Bar 180C had a convincing win at home to the n Boothen Squad (9-1).
The Tenerife Pool Super League is heating up
Tenerife Pool Super League Powered by EXPRESS BAR DELIVERIES S.L. Information supplied by Tenerife Pool Super League www.tenerifepoolleague.com
14.4.2016 – 27.4.2016
FOOTBALL AND SPORTS NEWS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 769
47
CD Tenerife
Tightest league for years By Chris Todd the 70th minute for the dead- there is a long way to go yet took the lead after 15 minutes lock to be broken, and Suso was the man to score for the blanquiazules after a superb passing move. How Tenerife did not add to the lead is beyond belief but the fans were enjoying the powerful second half display. Lugo did enjoy some late possession but with the home defence so well organised they failed to muster a single effort on goal and the match ended with a
and we all know what happened the last time we were in a similar position some three years ago – we lost the last seven games of the season! Hopefully this time will be different. 10/04/2016 Alavés 2 CD Tenerife 2 The blanquiazules travelled to Vitoria in the Basque Country in confident mood but knew
thanks to an opportunist Nano goal. Alavés fought back, cheered on by their 11,649 home supporters, and were level ten minutes later through Chuli. This time, a defensive mistake by Tenerife defender Carlos Ruiz gifted the goal and put an end to a run of 485 minutes without conceding. The second half could not have started better for the home side Photos: CD Tenerife
03/04/2016 CD Tenerife 1 CD Lugo 0 After a couple of draws it was paramount that Tenerife got back to winning ways against a Lugo side with promotion dreams of their own. With the blanquiazul defence in great form it was always going to be a case of trying to break the visitors down, something that has proved very difficult recently. CD Lugo were in fine form, riding high in the league and being one of the best ‘away-day’ sides in the division, so this was never going to be easy. However, this determined CD Tenerife team has found momentum just at the right time of the season when others towards the top are stuttering. After an intense first half with few chances, manager Pep Marti went for broke early on in the second half. He later remarked “We decided to risk everything as we knew a draw was no good to us.” Choco Lozano entered into the fray to join Nano and his presence turned the game Tenerife’s way. The Honduran striker showed no signs of jetlag after his World Cup qualifying hike to Central America and his quality could be a key factor from here on in. Chance after chance was now being created but it took until
Nano feeling happy after his two goals and finding out his injury was not serious Nano scores Tenerife’s first goal against Alavés
1-0 victory for Tenerife. The spirit is high amongst fans and players alike and you just feel that after a slow start the positive vibes may well lead to an unlikely play-off spot. But
they faced an Alavés team sitting pretty at the top of the table. Tenerife’s away form has been superb since Christmas – with three wins, three draws and two defeats – and they duly
as they took the lead through a low Sergio Mora strike. At 2-1 down against the league leaders, other CD Tenerife teams in the past would have folded, but not this one. The spirit and
belief is huge. Manager Pep Martí added youngster Cristo Gonzalez and it was his magical pass that split the defence and let in Nano to equalise in the 85th minute. Nano injured himself in the process but early fears that it was serious were unfounded.
Tenerife played the rest of the game with only 10 men as all their substitutes had been used but they held on resolutely to earn a valuable point. Next up for the blanquiazules is Albacete at the Heliodoro Stadium in Santa Cruz. Every match now is like a final and with the Spanish second division so tight, a win could take us up into the playoffs. Our rivals Albacete will have other ideas, however, and they brilliantly won away at high flying Cordoba in their last match. n
Local football fun
Nomads’ new look pitch Sponsored by: Foreign Language News & www.windowsplus.co.uk A n e w t o p - q u a l i t y s u rface has been installed at the Los Cristianos football pitch. Nomads FC is proud to announce that their facilities – where the children’s teams train, adult league games take place, and private football groups play – has just got even better, with a specially-fitted, top of the range playing surface. There is no better time for kids, young men and oldies to start playing again!
A new playing surface has been fitted at Nomad FC’s Los Cristianos pitch
During the past few weeks, Premier Football Services has taken an American team on a tour of Spain, and the under 11 side from Malaga recently played against Scottish Premier League academy teams such as Kilmarnock, St Johnstone, Hearts and more. This is our real speciality: taking football teams to train, play and experience local football and cultures in other countries. If any players or teams want to travel with us in the future, please get in touch. The Nomads Football youth teams will go on football, cultural and fun trips to Granada
and the Costa del Sol in early July 2016, and the following week they will participate in a UK competition against professional academy teams. More info on the trips can be found at: www.nomadsfc.com. We are getting requests to provide daytime football games and bookings for night time workers, so if you and your friends want to use the pitch or organise a friendly game during the day, please call Darren on 650 705 120 or 654 200 470 for more details. We are starting a new first and second division 6-a-side league, so if any players would
like to join then please let us know. We will find a team that best suits your level and availability. Nomads Youth Football Club still needs a few extra players for the under-10s, 12s and under-14s teams. We are looking for players to join and we provide weekly football sessions at our training facilities in Los Cristianos. For more information visit: www.nomadsfc.com. Alternatively, email: info@premfs.com or visit: www.premfs.com. Call/ message: +34 654 200 470. Also visit our general website: n www.premfs.com.
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PROMOTION
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 036