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1984-2016
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May 12 – May 25, 2016 Murder
Airport detention
Holiday special
Cannabis controversy
San Andrés feud
Cuban nightmare
Nine small worlds
Medicine or menace?
Page 9
Page 16
Page 19
Pages 34 & 35
Starmus Festival 2016
Beyond the horizon
The Starmus Festival was born with the aim of making the most universal science and art accessible to the public. This Music and Space Science Festival brings together the brightest minds from astronomy, prominent space travellers, astrophysicists and stargazers with technical business chiefs and leaders of our creative industries to debate the future of humanity. After two ground-breaking editions in 2011 and 2014, gathering together the most important representatives of these fields, such as Neil Armstrong and Professor Stephen Hawking, the programme for Starmus III will feature an unforgettable series of lectures, in easy language, to enable the general public to get a better picture of science, in line with the spirit of education that the Festival has fomented since its inception. Continued on page 3
Kip Thorne, Hans Zimmer, Garik Israelian, Alexei Leonov, Brian May and Stephen Hawking (l-r) at the Royal Society in London
Streets fiasco
Making do on road safety Many Tenerife roads are in a very poor condition, particularly on the non-tourist routes. For example, take a look at the TF66 which joins Buzanada to the main road. The road surface is appalling and if it is ever repaired, the reparations are mere facewashings. Along come the local workers with their tubs of asphalt mix and fill in the pot holes, with no preparation whatsoever of the ground surface. It’s a fast, but short-lasting solution. The mix is placed straight onto the ground with no substrate to protect the environment and as it is loose at the sides, it soon comes adrift again. The new lump of asphalt is very quickly broken up and individual chunks get broken off, endangering the traffic. Within a very few short weeks, the potholes are back and along come the men with their buckets again… The road up to Valle San Lorenzo is also in a dubious state. Night time is particularly dangerous and especially for those on two
Arico street “Not so bad” said the authorities
wheels. Being completely cynical, the roads everywhere are always at their best in an election year, when the construction crews crank-up into full gear - great roads, more employment, more votes! However, since the last
elections were in 2015, we have a way to go before the next repairs are likely. Those living in Valle San Lorenzo or the approaches to it will have to adopt a novel driving style to get home safely and without busting their suspen-
sion. This isn’t the only highway disaster area, there are many others waiting for a permanent repair so that they can properly use the term ‘road’ again. Continued on page two
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Driving disgrace
Roads to nowhere Continued from front page
Arico is even worse! In 2002 in the Arico district of Jardín del Atlántico, a small development was constructed with official building permits and now houses around 30 families. At the time of construction, the families also paid the ‘development costs’. Local resident Petra T. complained, “We are the only ones here so far who built their houses completely legally with an official building permit and everything. From day one we have paid our land taxes, water, rubbish and electricity charges, car tax etc.” Complaints about the local conditions are being
The ‘temporary’ water supply pipes crisscross the area
turned down by the Arico council on the grounds that the settlement was never adopted by the local council and therefore the borough is not responsible. However, they are quick enough to grab the taxes and
water and rubbish payments. “There are elderly people who live here, who for years cannot trust themselves on the road because it isn’t a safe surface to walk on. Each of us in the community has at some time
Potholes make the Valle San Lorenzo road dangerous
had part of their car damaged, especially the exhaust and tyres. Our friends rarely come to visit because they are afraid to come up the road in their cars. At the end of last year the Post Office even refused to bring our mail
because they claim the road isn’t passable. We need our mail – we are isolated”, said the incensed local resident. Water pipes were installed ‘provisionally’ above ground and continue to be an unsightly
accident-waiting-to-happen, particularly for those on foot or bicycles. “We can only use our garage because we concreted over them ourselves.” An official representative came out to make an on-thespot inspection last year – in a four-wheel drive Jeep. His conclusion was that it wasn’t so bad. “Unfortunately not all the residents have four-wheel Jeeps.” The trouble for the community seems endless. Earlier this year, the building authorities advised the angry residents that they would sort out the mess, meanwhile they have consulted a lawyer. Written enquiries and phone calls to the authorities from the press n received no response.
Starmus style
Music and Space Science Festival recording artist Sarah Brightman and the rock band Anathema, along with other surprises and artistic experiences, complete this unique musical event in Starmus III. Another of the highlights will be the Ask Hawking competition which, as in the previous edition, will enable members of the public to pose questions to the great scientist. Giancarlo Erra (Nosound), Garick Israelian and Vincent Cavanagh (Anathema) in Astrofest 2106, London (l-r)
This unique opportunity is an extra plus point in this incomparable event. Apart from the lecture series and musical events, Starmus III will make further progress in bringing science to the general public through activities for new audiences, including children, that will make it a ‘cosmic experience’ for all n concerned.
Sarah Brightman, Alexei Leonov, Brain May and Garik Israelian (l-r) at the Royal Society in London
Continued from front page this edition, stating that once that it will bring together no music programme with unique Moreover, this new edition of Starmus is very special, because it will pay particular tribute to Professor Stephen Hawking, for his enormous contribution to science, its development and the huge increase in knowledge, that his work continues to give to all of us. Starmus III is a tribute and thanks for the work and continuous effort of the Professor. Stephen Hawking has expressed his enthusiasm for
the Starmus vision became a reality in the historic first two editions, the Festival, “will continue to pursue the aim of bringing together some of the best scientists, musicians and artists under one roof the starry sky of the Canary Islands”. Hawking declared that Starmus has “an infinite power to inspire any human being and the power of the Starmus experience will last forever in the hearts and minds of its participants”. Another milestone of this edition is
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less than twelve Nobel prizewinners in Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Astronomy and even a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. More than ever before, the innovative panel of speakers exemplifies the event’s aim of bridging the gap between the general public and the exciting world of science through these inspiring figures. In addition to its lectures, delivered by some of the world’s most prestigious speakers, the Festival will again have a
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events such as the Sonic Universe concert, including performances by Brian May, the artistic contribution of Hans Zimmer, who won an Oscar for his work in the film The Lion King (1995) and was nominated on 10 other occasions, Paul Franklin, also a winner of two Oscars for best special effects for Inception (2010) and Interstellar (2014) and the legendary astrophysicist Kip Thorne who will offer a performance of Warped Side of the Universe. The global
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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.
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
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The clean beach initiative
50 Blue Flags for the Canaries Blue Flags for beaches in the Canaries Fuerteventura Playas Butihondo, Matorral, Morro Jable (Pájara) Playa Blanca, Puerto Lajas, Los Pozos (Puerto del Rosario) Gran Canaria Playa Las Canteras (Las Palmas) Playas San Agustin, Maspalomas, Meloneras, El Inglés (San Bartolomé) Playas Hoya del Pozo, Salinetas, Melenara (Telde) Playas Amadores, Mogan (Mogan) Playas El Puertillo, Los Charchones (Arucas) La Gomera Playa Santiago (Alajeró) La Palma Playa Bajamar (Breña Alta) Playa Los Cancajos (Breña Baja)
Playa El Puerto (Tazacorte) Playa Puerto Naos, Charco Verde (Los Llanos) Lanzarote Playas Matagorda, Los Pocillos, Pila de la Barrilla, Playa Blanca (Yaiza) Playa Las Cucharas (Teguise) Tenerife Playas El Médano, La Jaquita (Granadilla de Abona) Playas Troya I y II, Torviscas, Fañabé, El Duque (Adeje) Playa Las Vistas, Los Cristianos (Arona) Playa La Arena (Santiago del Teide) Sea Pool Piscinas de Bajamar (La Laguna) El Socorro (Los Realejos) Playas San Telmo, Complejo Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz) Playa San Juan (Guía de Isora) La Arena Mesa del Mar (Tacoronte)
The Blue Flag is awarded annually as a system of environmental quality certification developed by the FEE (European Federation of Environmental Education), so where there’s a blue flag flying, bathers can be sure that the beaches and water quality are good. In the Canaries, the Blue Flag initiative is managed in collaboration with the Canarian Government’s public health authority. This international programme recognises the work of those local authorities and marina managers that fulfil the stringent demands of the Blue Flag codes and guarantee environmental and hygienic quality, surroundings that are cared for, accessibility and services, plus an exemplary water quality. The FEE has awarded the Blue Flag for the best beaches in Europe since 1987. Based on strict guidelines, the water quality must be regularly checked, environmental standards adhered to and sanitary facilities and a lifeguard service must be available.
Arona’s award was for the quality of its beaches and for disabled access
Every year, the award of the blue flags is eagerly awaited, after all, this mark of quality which all boroughs awarded proudly display, is important for tourism. This year over 45 Canarian beaches, four more than last year, have won this distinction. Five marinas have also raised the Blue Flag. The most flags were awarded in Tenerife which won 15. Gran Canaria followed with 12, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura gained six, La Palma achieved five and La Gomera only had the one Blue Flag for Alajeró at Playa Santiago. The Blue Flags for sporting ports went to Puerto Mogán
and the Pasito Blanco marinas in Gran Canaria, both in the south of the island. In Lanzarote the award went to the Puerto Calero marina in Yaiza, in Tenerife for the Real Club Náutico in Santa Cruz and the Los Gigantes marina.
Additional awards The Blue Flag is also awarded to boroughs which have made a special environmental effort. Two Blue Flags were awarded in the environmental education area. In Gran Canaria, it went to the Interpretation Centre for the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve in San Bartolomé. In
Tenerife, the award delighted Los Realejos in Tenerife for the Rambla de Castro Nature Centre. There is also a Blue Trail award, which can distinguish coastal paths that are of importance both ethnologically and in nature, and which connect with a beach or marina with a blue flag. In this case, Fuerteventura was awarded for the Senda del Mar in Pájara, and Tenerife for the Punta de Hidalgo lighthouse coastal path in La Laguna. There is an additional Blue Flag award for special merits in the fields of lifesaving and first aid, information and environmental education, or in eliminating architectural barriers and giving attention to handicapped people. This year, the borough of Arona was recognised for its special contribution for disabled people under the slogan ‘sun and sea for all’. The beaches in Arona have wooden walkways, awnings and amphibious vehicles specifically for the physically n challenged.
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Promo - Liberty Seguros
Supporting disabled sportspeople The IX Liberty Seguros 10km Race takes place on May 22 in Madrid with a highly significant solidarity objective: to help young athletes of the ‘Team Liberty Insurance Paralympic Athletics’ to realise their dreams of becoming professional paralympians.
These individuals struggle every day to succeed and advance in the professional paralympian arena and strive to represent Spain internationally in future Paralympic Games. Registration is little more than €10; however, those who do not wish to take part in the race
Poster for the IX Liberty Seguros 10km Race
Wear ‘0’ and support young sportspeople with disabilities
• The Liberty Seguros Group, one of the principal sponsors of the Spanish Paralympic Committee, strengthens the activity of the ADO Paralympic Plan (ADOP) by supporting athletes in their training. • The collaboration and partnership was established in 2007 and has since been revised. Over the years the commitment between the two entities has grown and developed into a relationship of mutual trust and success for paralympians. • As a result of this collaboration, the Liberty Seguros Paralympic Athletics Promises Team was born – an initiative in which the insurer supports and finances young people with different disabilities who are striving to achieve a future in the world of sport. • The team, made up of 16 boys and girls aged between 12 and 15 years of age from different locations across Spain (Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Alicante, Burgos, León, Cádiz, Vizcaya and Toledo) are athletes with physical n disabilities, visual impairments or cerebral palsy.
can contribute to the development of the young athletes of the ‘Liberty Team Paralympic Promises’ by making an anonymous monetary donation of their choice. This can be done by bank transfer with the reference clearly marked as ‘Dorsal Zero’ to the following account with IBAN number: ES73 2038 1042 7560 0080 7227. This race, which represents a very important part of Liberty’s Corporate and Social Responsibility programme, has been celebrated since 2008. The event has seen a great rise in popularity over the years and the race has been adapted to make it even more attractive to both participants and fans. Along with the traditional 10km run, this year Liberty Seguros
is set to launch the ‘Carrera de la Superación’; a 1,000 metre race that has been specifically designed for those who do not have the physical capability, or those that have a disability that impedes them from taking part in the main 10km race. In connection with the marathon, Liberty Seguros has created #SeSalen, the largest fan club for Paralympic sports to date. What’s more, alongside this support, one of Spain’s most famous rap artists, El Langui, has created an anthem for the cause. You can show your encouragement for these athletes across social media platforms by quoting the hashtag: #SeSalen. For further information, please visit: www.carreraliberty.es. n
Next Legends Live date
Jethro Tull in Arona Legendary band Jethro Tull will play at the Pirámide de Arona in South Tenerife on May 20. The concert is the latest in the series of exclusive shows from living rock legends from the 1970s, 80s and 90s and has long been awaited. It was eight years ago that the front-man of the group, Ian Anderson, gave the last concert in Tenerife, and, after soldout shows in November of last year in Spain, the legend now returns to the island. Cult figure Anderson is the endearing face of one of the most enduring rock bands around, which has survived for decades thanks to their loyal fan base. The Scottish musician plays the flute, sings and composes, all with his inimitable style. The group was founded in 1967, since when it has released more than 30 albums and sold over 60 million records. Their particular brand is an unrivalled mix of progressive rock which incorporates folk music, classical and heavy rock sounds. Unfortunately, the previous Legends’ concert by Alan Parsons had to be cancelled due to unforeseen structural repairs being needed at the Pirámide de Arona venue. Disappointed fans are being reimbursed but no one has to worry about the Jethro Tull performance: the necessary work has been carried out and, thanks to the integration of the latest technology such as a curtain of LED lights, the shows will be even more spectacular than before. The Pirámide de Arona will reopen with the Carmen Mota Flamenco show, and in plenty of time for the concert by Tull, on May 20 as planned. So, once more the band’s distinctive music and virtuoso compositions from Anderson will rock Tenerife. Fans can look forward to great classics such as Aqualung, Heavy Horses, Locomotive Breath, Living in the Past and Songs from the wood as well as many more. Tickets start at €45 and are available from: www.legendslive.es or via: www.ticketbell.com. Doors will open at 7.30pm. All information about the great rock legends’ concerts, tickets and news can be found at: www.legendslive.es, Facebook (Leyends Live TF) and Twitter (@legendslivetf). n
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PROMOTION
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
La Esperanza
Los Brezos Riding Centre By Sabine Virgin “We not only create riders, we build personalities” In the hillside areas of El Rosario on the borders of the forests close to La Esperanza, a father and son team takes their day-to-day work very seriously. Félix Álvarez Senior and Junior run a successful riding centre and teach and mould the animals and people in their care very carefully. Dad started to ride when he was 10-years-old and his hobby became a passion and then a vocation and his profession. Los Brezos equestrian centre was founded by Don Tomás Morales Sánchez and he was like Félix’s second father. When Félix took it over, there was only room for 15 horses and he has been slowly but surely building it up over the last 30 years or so. Close to the borders of the stunning forests in La Esperanza, they have approxi-
mately 15,000 square metres of land. Félix Junior was, “infected” with the love of horses and horsemanship at an early age. The young man is now a trained coach, a recognised dressage exponent and his father’s righthand man. A twelve-hour day is not unusual for the father/
son team. Continuous development and improvement of the facilities for the benefit of all their two and four-legged friends are the leitmotif of the pair. They have recently inaugurated a new 60x20 square metre indoor riding hall, enjoyed by riders and horses alike and particularly impor-
times a day and we regularly have blacksmith and medical examination services in the yard. The horses also have showers, a special breeding cabin and there are several riding trails, both covered and in the open air. There is also a small circular pavilion for a maximum of four horses.
owners don’t have the time. Many of our riding enthusiasts don’t own their own horse, but come regularly to ride. All of our own horses are absolutely reliable, some have strong characters and some are very experienced and quiet animals. If anything out of the ordinary should occur, all our teachers
Can the animals also run free? Due to the hilly landscape it’s not ideal for horses to gallop free, but we do have outside facilities for them. However, they are not accustomed to herd-living. There is no hierarchy between them as there would be in a wild herd, which is why we only normally have one or two horses that know each other together at any one time in the outside paddock. Bear in mind that our horses are not only owned for pleasure, we have some sports competitors too and for them their horse is part of their, ‘equipment’. If they are injured whilst running around, it will affect their ability to compete and of course the animals are expensive. It’s not a risk we can take and we have to be vigilant.
and coaches are professionals and experienced enough to be able to get the situation back under control. We have a mixed bunch of nationalities in the yard, in addition to locals there are English, Germans, French and Italian riders amongst our regulars.
The large covered riding arena is unique in Tenerife Félix Jnr. is an excellent rider and a trainer for Spanish Dressage
tant in this unique and rather special northern district where the water droplet ‘fog’ seems to hang around forever in the winter months. Félix, you have an impressive yard here, can you tell us a bit about the different areas? How many animals are here? We’re currently housing 48 horses, seven of our own and the remainder belong to private clients who entrust us with their four-legged friends. It takes a full day to take care of them all and make sure all the private horses are available for riding when required. Sometimes the owners buy young and inexperienced horses which have to be ridden and prepared. These horses are only mounted and broken in by the horse’s owner and my son. They need an intense education with discipline and consistency. It’s a tight learning curve and it’s not always easy to endure, but it’s well worth it. You can compare it to educating children or dogs – there too rules and consequences form important cornerstones. Many of our horses are Hanoverian and come from the Netherlands and Germany. We can also guide our riders on the purchase of their horses. Our boxes are twelve square metres and filled with sawdust. There are also individual paddocks. The animals are, of course, constantly supervised, cared for and exercised. They are fed quality forage three
Who are your members? As I said, we have a lot of individuals here who entrust us with their horses. They are fed by us, exercised and integrated into our operations when their
When you talk about sports riding, what you mean? What interesting things could a client learn from you? Our offer is very versatile. When we talk about sport, it means that we train show jumpers and their horses in both Doma Española and classical dressage. The horse and rider must be coordinated and learn together, so it’s a system that really works. Our grooms all hold professional certificates. Some of our members and students take part in competitions. In these two sports areas in particular we also repeatedly have renowned experts visit, offering a kind of weekend course and also vaulting, so you can learn horseback acrobatics with
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us. Those who see riding as a leisure activity rather than a sport, are also in good hands with us. We offer riding lessons for children and adults, led by trained instructors, in small classes of a maximum of six participants. You will learn not only how to ride, but also basic horse care and how to prepare your mount, because careful and responsible management and care of the animal is an important part of the training. Experienced riders can take a trek with us. We regularly ride about three hours on the beautiful forest paths in La Esperanza. It’s pure relaxation, a chance to recharge your batteries and get away from your everyday cares. Even those who have no previous knowledge can book a ride, including tourists. We start off with a 45minute preparation period and then move to the forest paths; A truly memorable excursion.
The children are kept occupied and learning from 8am to 5pm and during this time they are allocated horses, ride, eat and play, but we also organise a complementary programme with, for example, interesting
In the summer you also offer riding camps for children. How would you describe that? In Spain, the children’s school holidays last from the end of June to about mid-September. That’s a long time and working parents face an organisational challenge. Therefore, we offer weekly summer courses.
Teenagers learn what it means to take responsibility and get the animals’ unconditional affection in return
What do you think riding gives and is it just for kids? I believe that if parents bring their children to us, they all benefit from it, mainly because the children don’t only learn how to ride. By promoting
reliability we mould not only good riders, but also responsible personalities. The horses themselves help us. They show
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of benefit later. Children who in their everyday environment may not receive too much approval, or are more intro-
get in touch with nature. Often children and teens miss the opportunity to let off steam or try out other skills and I believe that the interactive contact with the animals is personality-forming, direct and prejudice-free. Finally, parents and children have a shared recreational activity that brings them together and that is good for the relationship. Working parents are no longer able to be with their child all or most of the time, so it makes it even more important to share quality leisure time and riding lessons definitely contribute to that. Félix, thank you very much for the time you have taken for our visit and we wish you continued success.
Horseriding in the nearby forest - an unforgettable experience Different nationalities united at the Centro Los Brezos by their love of equestrian sports
environmental activities. It’s varied and the children are well cared for. The group size is limited to 20 children and it costs €160 a week.
qualities such as responsibility, discipline, consistency and
us very clearly, if we do something that they do not like. They demand attention at this moment, no matter what else is happening. This focus is an attribute that can only be
verted, open up with the horses and often gain more self confidence. Moreover, I find that especially in this day and age of video and computer games, children have a deeper need to
The Centro Hípico Los Brezos is on the Camino Guillón in La Esperanza. You can find out more on their website at www. centrohipicolosbrezos.com, or by calling the equestrian centre direct on 659 884 201 or 922 567 222. Alternatively, you can also visit the small attached Tasca which has a menu with typical Canarian cuisine and offers direct views of all the equestrian events n (closed Monday).
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LGBT international event
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is observed on May 17 and helps to coordinate international events to raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights and generate worldwide interest in practices of equality and tolerance, especially with regards to sexual orientation. Numerous parades and events take place annually all over the world since the inception of the occasion on May 17, 2005. The founders of the International Day Against Homophobia, as it was originally known, established the IDAHO Committee to coordinate proactive global action and promote an awareness day. The group lobbied for official recognition to take place on May 17, a date that was chosen to commemorate the decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases of the World
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Breaking down the closets Photo: theodoranian CC A 3.0 UL
The rainbow flag, a symbol of gay pride
Health Organisation (WHO) in 1990. The Asociación LGBTI Algarabía based in Santa Cruz recently applauded the borough council for enforcing policies and strengthening motions to combat related phobias and discrimination. “Above all, we go out into the world and shout for those without a voice; with our colours and flags waving proudly and visibly. We continue to work for a better future, especially
for those who find it difficult to speak up about such things, and we’ll raise the questions for them,” said Charlie Marrero, president of Algarabía. Schools in the borough of Santa Cruz will help to create awareness of the negative aspects that accompany discrimination against sexuality and educate them on the problems that many face, including issues related to sexually-transmitted diseases and why so many transgenders
sleep on the streets and often find employment difficulties. Algarabía encourages all major political parties to sit down and discuss proposals that will help to eradicate phobias related to sexual orientation and work towards building a diverse and respectful community. Initiatives include employing certain individuals in the public sector to help with educational and awareness campaigns, as well as informing youngsters about the risks of venereal diseases and offering seminars and workshops related to the issues that affect people of the LGBT community. “We look forward to a future where there are no more closets!” Marrero added, making a reference to the common phrase ‘coming out of the closet’ with regards to an individual’s conscious choice to publicly disclose their sexual n orientation.
Charity event
Crazy about Cycling Join in a charity bike ride from Teide to the port of Los Gigantes on June 4. The ‘Crazy about Cycling’ charity challenge will see participants test their metal during a thrilling adventure amid beautiful scenery in aid of raising funds for Fundación En Pie to help people with mental health problems and for the local children’s charity Helping Hands. As the majority of the ride is downhill, it’s suitable for anybody in relatively good physical condition. The route will take you through some picturesque scenery with small trails and banana plantations as well as the awesome volcanic backdrops. Several stops have been organised along the way for refreshment from local producers. This is a sponsored event and sponsorship forms will be provided to enable you to raise funds to complete the challenge. The food, drinks, transport to the starting point, parking and a party with live music in the port are all included. Places are limited, so sign up soon by contacting Lisa Allard on 636 271 853 or Liz Montague on 661 274 281. Alternatively e-mail fundacion@enpie.org or send a Facebook message on https://www.facebook.com/FundacionEnPie/. Both charities would like to thank all their sponsors, without whose support none of this would be possible. n
US Presidential elections
‘Canarian’ Cruz Former US presidential hopeful Ted Cruz has Canarian roots, it has emerged. Several newspapers in the Islands have dedicated features of late to the family background of the man who, until May 3, was battling Donald Trump for the Republican nomination to contest the election later this year. His connection with the Islands has inevitably received considerable attention, with some
even billing him as the possible first ‘Canarian president’ of the United States. Cruz’s great-grandparents, Agustín and María Cruz, hailed from Gran Canaria and emigrated with their only son, Rafael (his paternal grandfather), to Cuba in 1902 shortly after the island ceased being a Spanish colony and came under US rule over a century ago. Cruz, whose father was born in Cuba, has regularly told
the story of his family in rallies and even in his autobiography, A Time for Truth, in which he holds his great-grandparents up as the embodiment of the American Dream. The authorities in Gran Canaria were no doubt secretly hoping he would get elected and, like Barack Obama in Kenya, travel far to explore his family roots. An estimated 4,000 Canarians from all the Islands sailed
Ted Cruz has retired from the race
across the Atlantic to Cuba and other countries in South America every year in the early part of the 20th century to n seek their fortune.
Join in a fun-filled adventure for two local causes
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
Desperate brother
A man whose tolerance had reached a limit called the police on the afternoon of May 2 and confessed to having stabbed his brother. When the police arrived at the scene, a very nervous Tomás asked them, “What have I done?” At the house in Calle Florida, San Andrés, just outside Santa Cruz, the officers and ambulance staff found his brother José María still alive, but bleeding heavily from several serious stab wounds. He was taken immediately to the Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria hospital in Santa Cruz, where he died later that day. Their neighbours are stunned. They described 49 year-old Tomás as, “A quiet, hardworking, respectful, well educated and good person”. His 38-year-old deceased brother, however, who was also known by the nickname ‘Tuqui’, had been feared in the whole area. He was addicted to both alcohol and drugs, extremely violent, and his behaviour had apparently caused problems in some of the local bars. One
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in San Andrés, and had been seen hitting and punching his mother in the street. On one occasion, he had even thrown his mother’s belongings and clothes into the ravine, and he had smashed up furniture
in the home. For his mother and brother, the situation was unbearable. The local residents of Calle La Florida had a much kinder view of Tomás who in the end performed the deadly deed. They all agreed that he had reached the limit of his tolerance, and that he could no longer stand his brother’s violent and conflictive behaviour, maltreatment, and his mental illness. Neighbours said that, “He isn’t a murderer, like all those who are sentenced to many years in prison. He does not deserve that. For years he has been the family’s only breadwinner and endured terrible problems in silence.” For many residents, what he did was almost understandable, but of course he will have to answer to the court. He has at all times cooperated with the police in this case. At present it is still not clear what exactly triggered this latest family drama, but what is clear is that the sympathies of the people who know the family are not with the victim, but with the alleged pern petrator.
Murder in San Andrés
The drama played out in the idyllic fishing district of San Andrés
neighbour, Pablo, said, “We were afraid of him. Once he knocked on our door, and when I opened it, he beat me up. I took him to court twice, but he was always acquitted. Then he constantly threatened and
insulted our family, in fact he went out of his way to do so. He should have been treated for his alcoholism and his mental disorders a long time ago.” His wife Josefa who is 70 years old, said that she was tired of his
sickening suggestive proposals and threats to kill her. He frequently physically and psychologically maltreated his own mother and brother, who both lived with him in a two-storey house on a hillside
CANARY ISLANDS
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
La Palma
Radio ECCA and the Palmeros
Palma at the end of March, only five hundred have university degrees, whereas nearly three thousand of them aren’t in possession of even the minimum school-leaving qualification, the Graduado de Educacion Secundaria. People with no qualifications at all are the principal victims of unemployment in the Canaries and were the main reason for the Cabildo/Radio ECCA initiative. It’s important to question which degrees or qualifications unemployed graduates have
its first sun and sangria tourists came from. The post-war social mobility enjoyed by British working classes was unknown. The Canaries were Spain’s forgotten backwater. Tourism as a main income here was in its infancy and ‘cacique’ landowners still hung onto feudal rights long dead elsewhere. Education wasn’t much of an escape option, so the traditional way out of the whole stagnant mess was still emigration to the Americas to find work. When I arrived in La
Gomera thirty years ago, a lot of islanders over forty were illiterate, or barely literate. Radio ECCA was a groundbreaker. If you had a radio set, a pencil and determination, you could educate yourself. You could learn to read and write! It didn’t matter how old, what sex, or how poor you were. Children pulled out of school to work had the chance to graduate, to do their Bachillerato, to learn a language, to get qualifications.
Lucas López and Anselmo Pestana (l-r) Island medal-winning team Jesuit Francisco Villen, Radio ECCA founder, with the first teachers February 1, 1964 Photo: Radio ECCA
ular belief that it’s not worth staying on to study. The biggest group of unemployed is the totally unqualified. Although bad, or no, career advice does produce gluts of the inappropriately qualified, if you have no training or education at all to offer, you’ll likely be last in the job queue. These days, total lack of qualification denotes adverse circumstances, laziness, or erm, I think the PC term is ‘learning problems’. Back in 1965, on February 15 to be exact, when Radio ECCA first started broadcasting in Gran Canaria, there were many other factors. Spain was still dictator-ridden and poor in comparison to the northern European countries
Photo: Cabildo de La Palma
On April 29, the island of La Palma forged new, stronger links with that wonderful Canarian institution, Radio ECCA, the pioneer distancelearning radio station set up in the sixties and still going strong today. Cabildo president Anselmo Pestana and Vice-President Jose Luis Perestelo met Radio ECCA head Lucas López to launch the island’s new Advisory Council, formed to, “get to grips with” the current unemployment situation in La Palma - La Isla Bonita is suffering from a glut of under-qualified unemployed, like most of the Islands. Of the nearly ten thousand people looking for work in La
Photo: Cabildo de La Palma
By Barbara Belt before succumbing to the pop-
But it did matter where you lived. You needed decent radio reception, which was tricky. Radio ECCA, sadly, still couldn’t be heard in many parts of La Gomera at the end of the eighties. I was supposed to be the English tutor, but reception was so bad nobody could hear the programmes and my attempts to tape and reproduce the programmes for my students were far too time-consuming for a sole breadwinner. Online streaming and improved broadcasting have resolved all that today and classes can
be listened to live or downloaded. During the first Advisory Council meeting, Radio ECCA’s La Palma chief Carlos Camacho reviewed the past academic year. Students there received nearly €25,000 in grants from ECCA, while another €300,000 was spent on social projects. He also revealed that Radio ECCA students are the usual unbalanced Canarian mix of sexes, with over 75 per cent women trying for qualifications. Future plans were summed up as follows, “More person-
nel with official qualifications, more social inclusion, more linguistic competence, more online competence and social support and more digital literacy”. The word literacy, although here applied to today’s IT, takes us neatly back to Radio ECCA’s origins in the nineteen sixties and we’ll use Cabildo President Pestana’s eulogy for the story, “First, there was the human element - five teachers who gave the first, experimental radio classes to children from a Reformatory, some Air Force personnel and a Gran Canarian charity for women. Theirs was the force that stimulated thousands of people to strive for a better future. More than fifty years ago, Radio ECCA started its pioneer work in the Canaries in Gran Canaria, and thirtysix years ago it started here in La Palma”. “Over this half century, the education offered by Radio ECCA has diversified and adapted. From 1967, it took on the task of offering education that was especially appropriate for helping Canarians to access the professional world. “As time passed, Radio ECCA created its own educational system, based on the synchronization of printed teaching material, radio (then internet) and tutor supervision.
Photo: Radio ECCA
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Photo: Radio ECCA
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
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and adapted for those with incapacity. “Radio ECCA is a Foundation these days, whose statutes describe the general objective as the promotion of culture, the education of those working within it, both in Spanish society-where the Foundation is based- and other countries, by means of International Projects. The Foundation attributes special importance to providing education for those whose need is greatest, to basic education and literacy as a human right. “Most people in the Canaries have at least one person in
nised and applauded by many awards over the years - four Premios Ondas (radio awards); the Canarian Altruistic and Solidarity Prize; Canary Islands Order of the Great Cross and finalist in the Prince of Asturias Humanity and Communication Award. “For this island, it’s a great honour to award The Medal of the Island of La Palma to Radio ECCA’s director, Lucas López, a Palmero (from La Palma) and Jesuit, whose vocation and values are an example of RE’s commitment to education, culture and social justice.
Photo: Cabildo de La Palma
Estrella was the first ever Radio ECCA student, March 1, 1965
CANARY ISLANDS
Photo: Radio ECCA
First ECCA experimental classes with students from a children’s home All ages studied with ECCA
The recent La Palma meeting to set up the new advisory body
The ECCA System is modern, efficient and comfortable for everyone, regardless of educational levels and experience,
their family who has either initiated, or bettered, their education with Radio ECCA. Its untiring work has been recog-
“The island of La Palma awards this Medal to Radio ECCA in very grateful recognition of its n ongoing work”.
CANARY ISLANDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Feud escalates
Photo: Cberbell/Wikipedia
War of the judges! The Las Palmas judge who switched to politics in December continues to occupy the headlines both here and in the rest of Spain. High profile judge Victoria Rosell gave up her seat on the bench to head the list of candidates of the antiestablishment Podemos party and was even touted as a possible justice minister if Podemos entered government. Her departure has been followed by a bitter feud with her replacement, Salvador Alba, who has launched an investigation into some of her actions while still wearing the robes. At the centre of the probe is her involvement with a case in which she had a personal interest and the matter has been sent to the Supreme Court for a decision on possible disciplinary action. It The complaint has gone to the Supreme Court
is alleged that Rosell deliberately dragged her heels on a major fraud investigation into prominent businessman Miguel Ángel Ramírez because Ramírez was in the process of selling a radio station to her partner, journalist Carlos Sosa. The revelations could damage her chances of standing again in the rerun of the general election on June 26 given that her party is under pressure to disown her if the Supreme Court decides to push ahead with the disciplinary case and even criminal proceedings. Meanwhile. Rosell has filed her own suits against her successor, accusing him of deliberately targeting her with spurious claims to discredit her and for leaking details of his investigation to the media. Alba has, in turn, asked for clarification whether Rosell can return to the bench immediately if she does not stand as an MP again in June. n
Canarian Government decision
Speculation that health service users might be asked to contribute to the cost of vaccinations for illnesses such as the flu and others has been laid to rest by the Regional Government. Public Health Director General Ricardo Redondas used his participation in a paediatricians’ conference to allay concerns that the public would have to
Photo: freeimages.com
No shared vaccine payments
Canarian health service users will not have to pay
cough-up part of the cost of the expensive jabs. According to Redondas, payment would further widen the divide between rich and poor in the Canaries, although there is a more simple reason also for not following other regions in adopting the co-payment system. “Vaccinations help individuals but in so doing they protect the whole community and
it would be wrong to place a financial burden on anyone whose decision to seek a jab is for the wider benefit” he added. The regional Department of Health spent more than €1 million on flu jabs last winter and funded a major TV, radio and newspaper campaign to encourage people to attend their health centre to n be vaccinated.
Regional finance
Tax revenue up in Canaries Further signs of economic recovery have emerged in the Canaries, this time in the form of increased tax revenue for the Regional Government. The region’s Inland Revenue, which is responsible for collecting a range of local taxes including the islands’ version of VAT (IGIC), says that revenue rose during the first quarter of 2016 to €884.5 million, up more than €30 million compared to the same period in 2015. The improvement has been attributed by Regional Finance Minister Rosa Dávila to a combination of the continued upturn in the fortunes of the economy, reflected in a rise in consumer spending, and the success of efforts to curb tax fraud. The single biggest category of tax remains the IGIC, which accounted for €378 million from January to March, six per cent more than for the first quarter last year. The Government says it is well on track to meet its n target of €3.6 billion in tax revenue for 2016. Photo: Gobcan
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Rosa Dávila
Social research
Canarians watch less TV Canarians are among the lowest TV watchers in the country, although the average viewing figures will still seem very high to many. A nationwide survey by Barlovento Communication shows that daily viewing in the Canaries during the month of April amounted to an average of three hours and 29 minutes (209 minutes), almost half an hour less than the national figure of three hours 56 minutes (2236 minutes). The top three regions, Castilla-La Mancha, Aragón and Valencia, posted daily figures of 260, 247 and 246 minutes, respectively. A full 77 per cent of people in Spain admitted watching TV every day during the month. The figure for the Canaries is considered inaccurate by some given that the one-hour time difference with the mainland enables people here to tune into some of the most popular shows which end well after midnight in the rest of Spain but are still pre-bedtime viewing in the Islands. The everlater programmes, compounded in many cases by frequent and long commercial breaks, have repeatedly led to calls for Spanish TV prime time to be brought forward by an hour on the big channels to allow people more sleep. n
Pickup Point GP SURGERY DOCTOR DE LA FLOR SAN EUGENIO (Pass Casino, next to church)
TENERIFE GENERAL
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Wingate’s Trip to London ‘By seeing London, I have seen as much of life as the world can show.’ Samuel Johnson I wouldn’t say that I could agree fully with Johnson’s assessment yet it did give some of Wingate’s students a fresh and novel look at a very different way of life. Wingate School is thrilled following its second highly successful educational excursion to London. Thirty-two students and three members of staff were part of the four-day trip, which aimed to give students an opportunity to experience a bustling urban landscape. The trip was an opportunity for our students to gain a taste of practical and pragmatic learning on the rainy – and once snowy – streets of London town. They traversed London’s tortuously complicated Underground system, gained nourishment in its cafes and restaurants and laid their heads in accommodation on the verges of London’s verdant masterpiece – Hyde Park. All with the ultimate goal of living the educational experience that is London. The students had the opportunity to marvel at Shakespeare’s Hamlet reborn as an African Lion Cub in the breath taking reimagining of the classic play into The Lion King Musical. Literature was transformed from the dusty pages of a book to the living, breathing organism that is musical theatre, before their eyes. It was living proof that we all love a classic retold. However, the trip wasn’t solely about literary advancement. It was equally about students gaining an understanding of the culture that underpins their education. Whether it was the red telephone box providing ample opportunity for an impromptu ‘selfie’ photo-shoot or the sharp smell of vinegar permeating from a box of fish ‘n’ chips; the students’ senses were surrounded by British culture. Looking at London from the bird’s eye view that is the London Eye and yet being cocooned by glass, allowed the students to experience the true magnitude, architectural and cultural diversity in a way that would have never been possible otherwise. However, the experience of walking among those who seemed like ants from the God’s view of the Eye was in many ways more of an adventure for the students. Their highlight was a historical journey through the macabre underbelly of England in the London Dungeon. The students were given the opportunity to see, touch and even smell their way through the streets of London from the Medieval Period to the Victorian. The strongest indication of the trip’s success though can be found in the students’ recurrent questioning of whether they can have another trip to London, before the trip had even finished! This was an amazing opportunity for all involved to enjoy and I hope that the experience will be one that those who experienced it will cherish for years to come! n
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Organised crime
Yacht up for auction A yacht seized in Tenerife as part of the Spanish authorities’ organised crime raids is up for auction. The Princess 56, which was confiscated on 18 October 2013 as part of the so-called ‘Operation Pozzaro’ against money-laundering and mafia activities, has been sitting ever since in the marina in Las Galletas in the south of the island as its fate is decided. Spain’s National Criminal Court, which has sole jurisdiction for organised crime cases, has given the job of selling the twin-engined 16-metre yacht to a firm that specialises in auctions but the chances are that the initial asking price of €170,000 will not be met.
Archive photograph of Las Galletas marina
A source at the firm said that the vessel, which boasts two twin cabins and en-suite skippers’ quarters, needs extensive maintenance work and this
will affect the size of offers. By the turn of the month, approximately 20 offers had been received and the auction details had been viewed
no fewer than 1,400 times. According to Spanish legislation, only offers above 50 per cent of the valuation will be n considered.
Rotary Clubs of Tenerife
Five tournaments in one The Rotary Clubs of Tenerife are organising five golf tournaments throughout 2016 in order to help local charities and projects. Rotarians have organised island golf tournaments for over 20 years and have now decided to concentrate their efforts on one Solidarity Golf round between April and October of this year. The tournaments, which are organised with the local Rotary Clubs, will have the following venues: May 30 in Golf del Sur – hosted by Rotary Club of Santa Cruz June 4 in Golf Costa Adeje – hosted by Rotary Club Tenerife Sur September 17 in Buenavista
Photo: Flickr.com CC A 2.0 GL
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
All golfers will need to register and play all three tournaments in order to qualify for the final tournament
Golf – hosted by Rotary Club Puerto de La Cruz A final tournament will be held at the Real Golf Club El Peñon on October 1.
All golfers will have to play all three tournaments in order to qualify for the final tournament. This type of combined tournaments enables a stronger
competition between players and creates a grand fundraising event for the final tournament. The income of the tournaments will be given to local charity organisations like ATTE, Orobal, Apenate, Asociación San Juan and similar organisations. Some major companies have already offered to cooperate, such as La Caixa, Binter Canarias, Siam Park, Helvetia Insurance, Players Golf Shop, Body Factory, and others. Golfers interested in taking part can register directly at the different golf courses. It will be played in the usual four categories in Stableford n mode.
FOOD
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Home and away cuisine
All kinds of everything By John Whilst there is every seasonal a chicken. It has always mystiWeekend farmers’ markets are heavily promoted regularly by Island Connections, and with very good reason. I love going to them in Tenerife. We have been to several along the northern coast, and all of them are excellent, but our favourite has always been the one on the TF5 at La Guancha, where the vegetables are seemingly the freshest, the prices are seemingly the cheapest, and last but not least, the people selling their goods are the friendliest, always with a smile on their faces and a delight to deal with. Prices are good because they are strictly controlled, and everyone complies with what is shown on the electronic screen displayed overhead. We reckon that our weekly haul there saves us a fortune over the year.
vegetable on sale that you can possibly think of, the stands are backed up by those selling a huge range of different breads, cakes, meat, eggs, flowers, local crafts and even artisan soaps; though, for some curious reason, one cannot buy
fied me. The pork butcher says he is a pork butcher, and that is that. You can see from the photos that everything stated here is true – look at that wonderful range of produce: tasty and fresh.
The interior of the bar/ restaurant has been spruced up nicely. Don’t be fooled by its emptiness: this was just after – and before – the rush! The clean and fresh look works well
The Mercado del Agricultor farmers’ market is situated on the TF5 by La Guancha
Asadores La Villa
There are good views to be had from the terrace
Below the market is an underground car park, and above the market is a café/restaurant, all floors being served by a lift. This café in the past has often been a bit of a hit and miss affair, but now there is some good news to impart. The new operators are
the owners of the well-known Asadores La Villa, who already own and operate the site in La Orotava next to the Al Campo complex (reviewed here in Island Connections issue 670) and the Mirador La Villa just off the autopista as it swings past La Orotava. The three outlets are a family affair, and the lady boss herself
showed me round this latest venture. What a change there is! Much work has gone in to the improvements, with a particularly good one being the newly fitted great open braziers for the roasting of their chickens and other meats. Service is keen, as befits this well-developed family business. Prices are keen too, particularly the ones relating to the take-away arm now available there. Special offers at the moment are carne de cabra – goat stew – one of my favourites, as well as a metre of sausage with chips, two sauces (alioli and ketchup) and a large bottle of soft drink, for €12 for two people. The fixed price menu on the day of my visit, priced at
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771 €7.95, was a starter of soup (from a choice of two) followed by a main of half a roast
FOOD
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chicken with chips, and served with either water, beer or a soft drink. By the look of the
both at €2.70; carne in salsa/ fiesta (tender meat in sauce or pork cubes in a spicy marinade) at €5.20; and queso asado (delicious roast cheese) for €4.90. Three different soups all cost just €2.10, salads are priced according to size, a whole chicken to share is €6.50 and there is fillet steak (€12.90) ribs for €6.50 and entrecote at €9. And that is just to give you an idea: there is plenty more to sample. The same takeaway
chicken on that brazier, not to mention the delicious accompanying aroma, they were going to go down a treat. Further examples on the takeaway menu are garbanzas (chickpeas) or fabadas (a bean stew, often with pork),
menu is also available back at La Orotava venue. So now there are even more reasons for visiting the market on the TF5 near La Guancha – you can stay on there after your shopping for a good meal and reap a further bargain! n
You can buy eggs galore, and even a pot to put them in, but there is not a chicken to be found anywhere The range on offer is simply wonderful You can even see artisans at work Plenty of fruit options too
Asadores La Villa Carretera General TF5 Km 49.1, Mercadillo del Agricultor, Santo Domingo, 38440 La Guancha, Tenerife. Tel: 922 979 255 Open: Every day from 11am to midnight. At weekends they open at 7am. Loo Score: 7/10
Mercado del Agricultor Open: Saturday and Sunday See page 39 for locations and opening times for Tenerife’s other wonderful farmers’ markets.
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TENERIFE GENERAL
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Airport detention
Hospital celebrations
Cuban nightmare A holiday to Cuba turned into a nightmare
Photo: freeimages.com
A young Tenerife man who flew to Cuba to attend a friend’s wedding has described his nightmare after being prevented from leaving the Caribbean island due to a minor car accident. Ricardo Rodríguez from Santa Úrsula was one of a party of ten people who travelled for the celebration in late April. He and his friends were involved in a minor traffic accident which seemed innocent enough until it came to flying back home. Along with his girlfriend he was about to depart on a flight from Varadero when he was asked in a PA announcement on board the plane to identify himself to the crew. An astonished Ricardo was immediately taken into custody and held for five hours in a police station before
Liver transplant anniversary
being informed that he could not leave Cuba. One of his friends contacted Spanish media to alert them to the bizarre situation. Accord-
ing to the friend, nobody had tested positive for either alcohol or drugs and no one was injured in the collisions. “Everything seemed fine and the other driver
and the police were happy to allow the hire car’s insurance to sort things out. We have no idea what led to his detention and the travel ban,” he added. n
Tenerife’s Candelaria Hospital has marked the 20th anniversary of the first liver transplant to be carried out in the Canaries and health chiefs used the occasion to praise the team at the hospital for its magnificent work since then. The Candelaria, one of the island’s two big public hospitals, has acquired a solid reputation as one of the leading transplant hospitals in the country, especially for livers. Since the first operation was performed in April 1996, it has completed a total of 600 transplants, giving a new lease of life to recipients not just from the Canaries but a number of foreign nationals living here. The commemoration saw the poignant return to the hospital of Armando López, the first patient to be given a new liver, who was reunited with the doctor who led the operation. Regional health minister Jesús Morera said that more than 3,500 organ transplants have now been carried out in the Canaries and he thanked the live and deceased donors whose generosity had given so many people, “a second chance in life”. One British expat who has benefited from a transplant is full of praise for the wonderful professional team at the Candelaria. Amanda Maher from Callao Salvaje was operated in the hospital just over a year ago and said she had been given, “a new lease of life. Being able to do things I was unable to do before the transplant has changed my life. I feel fit and healthy since,” Amanda told Island Connections. n
La Laguna
Circus denounces “vendetta” The last ever circus to perform in La Laguna following the council’s ban on entertainment involving animals says it has suffered, “heavy financial losses” as a result of a deliberate campaign to make life difficult for it during its stay in the city. The Kaos Circus has seen its advertising pulled down repeatedly by opponents in many parts of La Laguna and it is
planning legal action against the culprits, if they are identified. “We have had €2,000 worth of printed materials torn down and have suffered a further €15,000 in lost ticket revenue as a result of our publicity not reaching the public. Many potential customers do not even know we are here,” said circus boss Enrique Luna, who wants CCTV cameras to be
examined by police to catch those behind the vendetta. As reported here, the circus was already setting up for its three-week stint in La Laguna when the council followed the lead of neighbours Santa Cruz in adopting a ban on the use of animals for public shows. The Kaos show features an elephant, three tigers, a lion and a panther and Luna challenged critics
to attend a performance to see for themselves how the animals are treated rather than accuse it of cruelty. Various people have sprung to the defence of the wellknown circus and have pointed out that the activists do nothing to defend the many skinny hunting dogs caged in cramped conditions on the backs of pick-up trucks seen on Tenerife’s roads n every weekend.
Amanda enjoying life again after her transplant
TENERIFE GENERAL
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Readers’ letters
Dear editor,
By
Hold ups at the Los Gigantes bus terminal are frustrating locals
Readers’ letters
Dear editor, I have been following the recent rugby reports in Island Connections for the Adeje side, Ñandú. I was delighted to read about their progress this season and fantastic form, and even went down to the T3 on two occasions to support the lads. It was very emotional to be there for their recent Cup Final win over Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Ñandú thoroughly deserved their moment. Very well done to everyone involved at the club, and I hope the coming season brings more success! Yours sincerely Brian Caulston
I hope you’re all well. I’ve had three different members of my family over for holidays, and it seems the fact that it has been cloudy is somehow my fault! But they all enjoyed themselves and went home with a very nice tan. People sometimes forget that we’re just off the coast of Africa and that it’s very easy to burn, even through cloud. Ah, the wisdom of age. Here are some stories that might underline this: A retired flyer with the military took a job flying a C-130 passenger plane and was lumbering along. His nephew had joined the military and recognised his uncle’s route and called him up to check it really was him flying that day. They exchanged pleasantries, and his nephew decided to show off. He told his uncle to ‘watch this!’ and promptly went into a barrel roll followed by a steep climb. He then finished with a sonic boom as he broke the sound barrier. The young pilot asked his uncle what he thought of that. His uncle answered, ‘That was impressive, but watch this!’ The passenger plane droned along for about five minutes and then his uncle came back on and said: ‘What did you think of that?’ Puzzled, the cocky young man asked, ‘What the heck did you do?’ His uncle laughed and said, “I stood up, stretched my legs, walked to the loo then got a cup of coffee and a cinnamon roll. I could have had a nap but I wasn’t tired.” When you get older and smarter, comfort and dullness are not such bad things! Apparently it’s called the S.O.S. syndrome. Slower, Older and Smarter.
Hi everyone,
The perks of being over 60 and heading towards 70 or 80: Kidnappers are not very interested in you. No one expects
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katykennedy@telefonica.net
than the national weather service. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can’t remember them either.
what was wrong and could they help. The old man gratefully accepted some tissues and dried his eyes. He stuttered,
Photo: Rama CC A-S A 2.0 France license
Photo: Raysonho CC0 1.0 UPDD
For quite some time I have been trying to get both Titsa and Santiago del Teide Council to do something about the bus terminal at Los Gigantes, unfortunately without any success. A two vehicle lay-by acting as a bus terminal for six different services is absolutely ridiculous. At certain times of the day the number of buses completely blocks the road making it impossible for emergency vehicles to leave the village. On occasions there can be a traffic jam right round the village, irate drivers using their horns to show their displeasure. It can be a complete nightmare and something really needs to be done about it. If anyone else suffers from this situation, please make sure you contact the Santiago del Teide borough council as well as Titsa to put pressure on them to do something. Yours sincerely Maurice Baxter
y Kat
SOS can also mean coffee, rolls and a nap! Be careful not to take a sleeping pill and laxative on the same night!
Photo: jk1991 freedigitalphotos.net
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
you to run - anywhere. People call at 9pm and ask, “Did I wake you?” Things you buy now won’t wear out. You can eat supper at 5pm. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge. Your eyes won’t get much worse. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists
And finally, an elderly man with white hair and a walking stick was resting on a park bench and sobbing very loudly. He was obviously in great distress. Two lovely ladies, (who must have been two of our very kind readers, of course!) then took his hands and gently asked
“Well you see, I’m a millionaire and yesterday I married a twenty year old supermodel. Last night was so magical, I can’t tell you just how wonderful it was,” and he began to sob again. The two ladies were really upset and tried to cheer him up, “It really doesn’t sound so bad to be a millionaire with a brand new supermodel wife. Why on earth are you crying?” The old man stuttered through his sobs, “I can’t remember where I live!” So until next time, take care of yourselves, and especially of each other. Remember; never under any circumstances take a sleeping pill and laxative on the same night! Send an email to: katykennedy@ telefonica.net. Telephone: 616 110 930. n
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CANARY ISLANDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Promo – Linea Directa
Insurance requirements for vehicles porarily or permanently – for example, due to lengthy offroad repairs or because it is being scrapped – then you do not need insurance cover. If you have a motor vehicle that is out of use and you are paying insurance on it, you can temporarily cancel it. You will need to go to a vehicle technical inspection centre (ITV in Spain) beforehand and have the vehicle checked and its status suspended or terminated.
How can I prevent fines? The best way to avoid penalties is to make sure you always have adequate insurance cover, and
with quickly and efficiently, and receive a free quote for whichever policy best suits your needs. We hope that the information in this article is of interest to you. For further information visit Linea Directa’s website: n www.lineadirecta.com.
Photo: CC A-S A 3.0 UL
It’s F.A.C.T.
Taxing Matters Sponsored by the Free Advice Centre Tenerife
If you have a vehicle that is out of use, you can temporarily cancel the insurance until it is roadworthy
Some insurance policies, such as private health insurance, are not compulsory, while others like property insurance are needed, as is vehicle insurance – even if your car or motorbike sits unused in a garage. By law you must have at least one policy that covers your motor vehicle for damages or claims from a third party in the event of a fire or accident. According to Spanish legislation (Royal decree 8/2004) every car must have insurance cover. A vehicle that is not driven on public roads does not need insurance, however,
if your vehicle meets all the required standards with road taxes paid you will be problem-free. If you need car insurance or are thinking of changing policies, get in touch with Linea Directa today by phoning: 902 123 495. You will be dealt
this does mean that it cannot be parked on a road and must be kept and used only on private property. If you own a vehicle that is not insured you can be fined anything from €601 to €3,000 and the vehicle may be seized.
Why insure a vehicle that is kept in a garage? Vehicle owners also have a responsibility to other people and their property and this extends beyond typical road use. For example, if you have a car in a community garage that
catches fire, the owner of that vehicle is liable for all other property that is damaged. Anyone without insurance in such a situation will have to pay a fine depending on the gravity of the incident, the period of time it was left uninsured and whether the owner had previously failed to provide insurance cover.
Are there any circumstances where insurance is not mandatory? If your vehicle has been officially signed off, either tem-
There is a saying that nothing in life is certain except death and taxes! And there is certainly a fair amount of taxes in Tenerife to take into account. Add into the mix a completely different administrative system, and of course, the language, and everything can very quickly become complicated! At present, it’s the time of year where IBI (Impuesto Bienes Inmuebles), the equivalent of rates and car taxes, are due, and the period for personal tax declarations has already begun. Also companies have to prepare their accounts for presentation too. If you have a business here, or are an employee, you may well also be aware that the authorities are tightening up in all respects of work contracts, with inspections taking place regularly. Part time contracts have been scrutinised to ensure that the worker genuinely works those limited hours and this is not being used as a way of avoiding or reducing social security payments. In addition, it has also been made more difficult to keep employees on limited contract durations, rather than moving them on to indefi-
Authorities are tightening up in all respects of work contracts
nite contracts. Being self employed in Tenerife is not a cheap matter, but is essential if you are someone who works for yourself at various locations, rather than for one fixed employer. Equally, if you are a business owner and you have someone working within your business, such as a cleaner, singer or a builder, even temporarily, you should check that they are registered appropriately with the tax office and the social security, or they could
potentially be a problem for you. Good financial and labour advice is essential to both parties to find the best solution for your particular situation, but how do you know who to go to? The Free Advice Centre Tenerife (FACT) works with a number of fiscal representatives, gestores and lawyers who have proven track records and excellent reputations, so feel free to call in and have a chat about your personal n situation.
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
Travel
Positioned in the middle of the North Atlantic are the nine volcanic islands of the Azores, possessing a rich kaleidoscope of landscapes, people and traditions based on harmonious living alongside natural splendour. The Azores, officially the Autonomous Region of the Azores, is one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders, rich with vegetation and crystal-clear lakes and lagoons. The region is situated 1,360 km west of Portugal, 880 km northwest of Madeira, and 4,121 km east of New York City.
How to get there
TRAVEL
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Nine small worlds specialities cooked from the underground heat of volcanic hot springs.
are common in Azorean cuisine. Beef from the Azores is of excellent quality and comes in
is by horse riding or cycling. The golf courses on the island offer fantastic quality and conditions amid a stunning natural backdrop. Scuba diving, whale watching and big game fishing are other activities with tourist appeal. On the north coast of the island, there are many spots available for the practice of surf and body boarding.
Park is one of the most beautiful public gardens in Europe with over 2,000 different trees and a natural thermal pool. São Miguel is the only place in Europe where tea is produced and visits to the tea plantations are regularly organised. For those that like town architecture, the old streets of Ponta Delgada have many buildings
Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire) in São Miguel The lush gardens of the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Regional Airline Binter, together with SATA (the Azores regional airline) offer connections with the archipelago all year round. During the summer flights run every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday until September, with a flight time of three hours.
Availability As the Azores is extremely popular in the summer due to its sundrenched natural beauty, CanariasViaja.com has reserved some dates to guarantee availability. This summer you can enjoy a holiday in the Azores for €720 per person for 9 days/ 8 nights for the following dates: July 6 to 14; July 13 to 21; and July 20 to 28. Places are limited.
Dining out Tuna, mackerel, swordfish and other seafood delicacies
a variety of local dishes, from tender marinated steaks to traditional beef stews. The popular new wines of Pico, Graciosa and Terceira are worth sampling, while the local beer, liqueurs and spirits also have a unique flavour.
Those who prefer a little more action can hire a 4x4 SUV, a quad bike or a mountain bike. Paragliding also offers views of the beautiful lakes from a unique perspective and you can also go down to the subterranean world in the Carvão Cave, where there are various cliffs equipped for climbing.
Things to do
Things to see
Popular activities on the green island of São Miguel include hiking, mountain climbing, canoeing and other sports typically practiced on lakes located in the green craters of the dormant volcanoes. Another popular way to enjoy the island’s beauty
The Caldeira Velha hot waterfall is a must-see, situated on the slopes of Água de Pau. The Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire) in São Miguel is a natural delight, as is the charming islet of Vila Franca do Campo situated nearby. The Terra Nostra
CanariasViaja.com CanariasViaja.com 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. They offer great value for money and work with the leading hotels in the areas Binter flies to. These destinations include: Portugal, The Azores, Morocco, Senegal, Gambia, Western Sahara, and of course, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde. If you have a young family, check out their special holiday offers for under-14s.
The Miradouro de Santa Iria on the island of São Miguel
BinterMás card
The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel’s stunning facade
The BinterMás loyalty card awards customers points when flying with Binter or using the excellent facilities offered by associated companies. Improving your BinterMás level 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. CanariasViaja.com’s clients get one point for every €1 spent on their holiday package.
The islet of Vila Franca do Campo in São Miguel
Where to Stay CanariasViaja.com has attractive offers, including flights and hotel packages, to the main Island of São Miguel, with a selection of accommodation offers from 4star seafront hotels to luxury resorts like Terra Nostra Garden Hotel located in the idyllic area of Furnas. The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel exudes an air of mysticism in perfect harmony with nature. The hotel’s interior design has an Art Deco style with contemporary elements, creating an atmosphere of comfort and exclusivity seamlessly integrated with the lush vegetation of the gardens. The new Terra Nostra restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines, including local
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and houses of baroque and neoclassical styles.
General info São Miguel is the largest island (759 km2), and is pitted with many large craters, volcanic cones and green landscapes in bloom. It also boasts large lakes and the bustle of the region’s principal city, Ponta Delgada. The smallest island in the Azores is Corvo, with just a 17 km2 land mass.
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. 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 038
Restaurante Regulo
Trick or Treat? By John that. Whilst looking through We recently went for dinner at one of the oldest and grandest of restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz. The restaurant has been operating since the ‘80s in a property dating back to the 18th century. Restaurante Regulo is highly regarded. Surely, we must be in for a treat? Do you go on first impressions when you visit a restaurant? The main entrance could do with a good lick of paint, and the two fish tanks held only water and one poor lobster doing its best to become invisible, instead of the expected cornucopia of fresh fish that I would have expected on an early Saturday evening. Should anyone feel like putting that lobster out of its misery, then they would be charged €90 a kilo for the privilege. The entrance opens out to a courtyard type of room, also, at first glance, looking slightly jaded, but saved by the interesting balcony running around above. All the tables in that room were taken, and so we were shown to one of the side rooms, empty apart from a solitary lady diner squashed into a corner. Why do they do that? But this room had style; crisp, white tablecloths, nice napery and glasses, and so I breathed a small sigh of relief. Would it be a treat after all? Smartly turned out waiters bustled about and plied their trade with a certain professionalism. Warm plain bread rolls arrived, but accompanied only by foil wrapped butter pats. Lesser places do far better than
the extensive menu we were brought two complementary glasses of decent sherry – a nice touch. We chose the fried fish platter at €9.75 to share between us. There were prawns, fish churros, a hard-boiled egg and strange cheesy churros. I only say strange because the platter was not very warm, and semiwarm cheese is neither one thing nor the other. Some cold potato salad and a nice tartare sauce added decoration.
I was told that I would have to wait for thirty minutes for my chosen Dorada fish, baked in a salt crust, to be ready. No problem. My wife chose the so-called filet mignon which came with a rich thick brown sauce, a slice of greasy bony streaky bacon and some small onions from a jar. At least her chips were piping hot. Whilst waiting, we got into conversation with an English couple at the next table. They had arrived after us, but moved well ahead whilst I awaited my Dorada. The gentleman
baked fish was something that I had been looking forward to because it cooks the fish perfectly whilst retaining all the moisture. With a flourish, the
had a huge beef chop with a mushroom and brandy sauce (€15.00) and he demolished the lot; his lady saw off a plate of pork and vegetables. A German couple opposite us started with a vast salad to share, and it looked superb for €9. A long
list of starters hover around the €10 to €12 mark. “Whatever you’ve ordered, it must be worth waiting for?” they asked, between mouthfuls. I hoped so. A small table was brought and placed in front of us. Two large plates were set down on it. Then nothing much happened for about a further ten minutes (yes, it had been a good half hour since the starter arrived) and then a large dish arrived and was placed reverentially on the small table. Piled high with a salt crust, this
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crust was cracked and lifted away – to reveal what? “Excuse me, but that’s not what I ordered. I ordered the Dorada”. A quite miserable little fish lurked within. “No, it is a Lubina (sea bass), much better.” It didn’t look better at all, and I didn’t want it. But with a half hour wait, there was no point in asking them to re-do it properly, was there? I had been tricked! The fish was skinned and boned before me with the appropriate flourishes. Small strips were laid carefully onto the cold
plate. Spoons were waved in a choreographed effort to remove the smallest bone. By the time I had the plate put before me, the fish was stone cold and dry. And, there were still quite a number of bones, which left me spitting, figuratively speaking, of course. I wished that I had opted for the halibut in a mustard sauce with rice (€12.50), or even the duckling in orange sauce (€11.50). A chateaubriand for two would set you back €32.50, only just over half what we paid at Brunelli’s recently. We paid up and left, €64 lighter in the pocket. Quality and portion control need a bit of an overhaul at this place. Nevertheless, if all goes well for you, it is a pleasant destination to spend your money and your evening. Unfortunately, I was let down. On reflection, we may go there again, but perhaps not n on a Saturday.
Restaurante Regulo Calle Pérez Zamora 16, 8400 Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife. Tel: 922 384 506 Closed: Sunday all day and Monday lunchtime. Loo Score 8/10
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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
Pink Floyd
Symphony style for companies such as Gillette and collaborated on an album by Uli Jon Roth of the Scorpions called Sky of Avalon, on which he sang a fantastic version in English of Pavarotti’s famous aria, Nessun Dorma.
Her debut on Broadway was in the musical Ain’t Misbehavin’. She has toured the world and shared stages with artists including B.B. King, Hank Jones, Clark Terry and Charlie Musselwhite.
part in the Queen Symphonic Rhapsody tour in 2012 and 2013, and the History of Rock last year. You can see this fantastic show at the Teatro Guimerá in Santa Cruz on May 27, 28 and 29
Michele McCain is a great singer, composer, actress and diva with marvellous charisma. She debuted in New York in front of 60,000 people, performing with James Brown.
Pablo Perea is the leader of the Spanish band La Trampa. He has performed in musicals such as Moments of Rock & Roll, touring the best theatres in the country. He also took
at 8.30pm. Tickets priced at €40 and €45, are available now at the box office and online from www.tomaticket. es. See www.teatroguimera.es for more info. n
Photos: Teatro Guimerá
Pink Floyd Symphonic is a hair raising show performed by a line-up of extraordinary and powerful international voices, accompanied by the One World Symphony Orchestra and a rock band formed by top musicians who have toured the world with artists such as Simple Minds, George Michael, Chris Rea and Mike Oldfield. The band has united to continue the legend of Pink Floyd, and to ensure that the songs and hits of the greatest symphonic rock band in history are still performed. As has already happened with the Queen Symphonic Rhapsody, Abba and History of Rock shows, the almost three-hour long Pink Floyd Symphonic spectacular will transport the audience to another dimension. Creating an environment in which emotions flow and music and pure energy ema-
nate from the stage, the band offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Members include Tommy Heart who is the front man of the Fair Warning and Soul Doctor bands. A charis-
matic and exceptional vocalist, he has toured the world with Status Quo, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Alice Cooper among others. He has taken part in international campaigns
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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.
Bananas
La Orotava One of the prettiest towns on the island, La Orotava also gives its name to the whole valley, which has a very prosperous history. The town centre has beautiful old mansions reflecting the wealth of the past.
Anaga Rural Park The Anaga Rural Park occupies much of the mountainous mas-
Los Cristianos sif in the northeastern corner of Tenerife. This is a steeplysloping area with exceptional natural and cultural treasures, and amazing landscapes.
Güímar This northeastern town is best known for the ethnographic park which was developed by Thor Heyerdahl. The pyramids are a complex construction, astronomically orientated according to the winter and
Once a little fishing village, Los Cristianos began as a tourist destination for ailing Swedes who came to enjoy some rest and recuperation. From the port you can take a ferry to La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro. The two main beaches offer safe swimming with disabled access.
Costa Adeje Costa Adeje is an upmarket area of South West Tenerife
which is popular with European, Russian and national tourists. There are vari-
The town of Los Gigantes, which lives mainly from tourism but on a much more modest scale than Playa de Las Americas or Los Cristianos, is overlooked by the towering cliffs. There is good diving and a small harbour. El Duque beach
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Other islands La Gomera Only a 45 minute ferry ride from the port of Los Cristianos, La Gomera is a small, peaceful island with amazing hiking and a 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
HOLIDAY GUIDE
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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.
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Gran Canaria Teatro Pérez Galdós, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
green and rugged, with breathtaking sights and one of the best places in the world for star gazing, hence the location of the world’s most important astrophysical observatories on its Roque de los Muchachos.
The capital, Las Palmas, is a much bigger city than Santa Cruz de Tenerife and has a nice historical quarter, a good night-life and Las Canteras - a long, yellow sand beach with areas for supervised swimming - and another beach for surfers of all levels. The main tourist areas are Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, with its beauti-
Lanzarote Lanzarote is known as the ‘Isla de los Volcanes’, with over 300 volcanic cones. Like Fuerteventura, it’s flatter than the other islands and there’s very little rain, even by Canarian standards. The whole island was
Laurel forest, La Gomera
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
Las Canteras beach, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The capital, Santa Cruz, lies to the east of the island. It’s a pretty city of seafaring tradition, although Los Llanos de Aridane in the west is in fact the biggest city on La Palma. The towns in the north of La Palma are also very beautiful and in the south of the island
ful sand-dunes and all-night bars and clubs. The island also has some spectacular archaeological sites.
Fuerteventura Flat, arid and sparsely populated, this island looks more
declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, and those who take the time to explore the island will find it’s strangely beautiful. The capital is Arrecife, to the east, and the three main tourist resorts are Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.
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General information for visitors
Useful contacts Tenerife Santa Cruz Tourist Office, Plaza de España Tel: (0034) 922 281 287/922 289 287 Open Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sat, Sun: 9.30am-1.30pm
Time zone: The time zone in the Canary Islands is the same as in the UK and Ireland. Foreign exchange The Spanish currency is the Euro. You can change currency in any bank by showing your passport (Mon – Fri, 8am – 2pm), or in the many exchange agencies in resorts. Can I drink the water? You can drink the tap water in the Canaries, but the change may affect your stomach. If your visit is short, it’s perhaps best to stick to bottled. Discounts Students and senior citizens may receive discounts on ferries, tickets to concerts, museums, etc., so always ask, as long as you can provide ID to prove it. Shopping Normal opening hours in the Canaries are from 10am to 1.30pm and 5pm to 8.30pm. However, in big tourist resorts and shopping centres the opening hours are longer, often from 10am until 10pm, sometimes even later. On Sundays and Bank Holidays only the shops in tourist resorts open. There is a flea market in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, every Sunday morning Duty Free Despite popular belief, it is generally cheaper to buy alcohol and tobacco on the Islands than on the plane or at the airport. Limits are: 200 cigarettes/50 cigars/ 250grs rolling tobacco 1L spirits over 22% or 2L spirits under 22% 2L wine 60ml perfume, 250 ml eau de toilette Medical care All residents of the EU have the right to free medical and hospital care from Tenerife’s Public Health Service whilst on holiday (ie less than three months). To receive this you need to have the European Medical Card or equivalent document, which can be applied for in your home country. It doesn’t cover all treatments; excluding dental treatment, except for emergency extractions, and repatriation due to illness.
Plaza del Duque, Adeje
If you are ill, find a Centro de Salud or Centro Médico. The ones in the tourist resorts generally speak some English. Make sure they provide care under your insurance policy or EHIC before you sign for anything. Unscrupulous taxi drivers have been known to take back-handers for taking sick people to private clinics so make sure you are in the right place before paying. Safety Only take out credit and bank cards you actually need: leave the rest in the hotel safe, along with your passport and other valuables. A UK driving licence with a photograph is usually accepted as ID for most credit card purchases, a photo credit card will still have to be accompanied by photo ID, daft, but there you are. Do not leave belongings unattended. Particular vigilance on the beach and when you are travelling with luggage is recommended. Take the minimum with you on excursions and lock everything in the boot that you aren’t carrying with you and only access it where you are not overlooked. Do not leave anything in sight. Cars have been broken into for a beach towel before now. If you are at a bar or nightclub, don’t leave your drink unattended and avoid dark streets on the way home. The Islands are safer than many places in Europe, but there are always those who prey on the unaware: relaxing your vigilance could cost you dearly, not just in money but in precious holiday time - reporting the loss of a passport to the police for example and then the visits necessary to the consulates to replace it.
Emergency number: (all Canaries) 112 Guardia Civil (all Canaries): 062
Post Offices Open Monday to Saturday, generally 8.30am - 2.30pm. Some city offices open later.
Blue Badge users Parking for Blue Badge holders in the Canaries is limited to the ‘disabled only’ (Minusválidos) parking spaces in each town. There are no concessions to park on yellow lines or anywhere else normal parking is not allowed. And even if you have a Blue Badge, don’t park in a disabled area which has a registration number marked on it – you will be fined and probably towed away. For further information: www.bluebadgetenerife.com
Consulates British Consulate Tenerife: (0034) 922 286 653 British Consulate Gran Canaria: (0034) 902 109 356 Honorary British consulate Lanzarote: (0034) 928 262 508 Indian consulate: (0034) 922 241 416 Irish Consulate: (0034) 922 245 671 Consulates can issue passports, give information about medical care, education and Nature and Man Museum, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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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La Laguna Tourist Office, Casa Alvaro Bracamonde, C/ La Carrera. Tel: (0034) 922 631 194/922 601 106. The tourist office offers a free guided route around the city. Call to make a reservation.
Tenerife South Playa de Las Américas Tourist Office Plaza del Centro Comercial City Centre, Avda. Rafael Puig, 19. Tel: (0034) 922 797 668
Museo de Historia y Antropología de Tenerife, Casa Lercaro, C/ San Agustín. Open Tues - Sat: 9am-8pm; Sun, Mon, Bank holidays: 10am 5pm. www.museosdetenerife.org.
Oficinas de Turismo: Avda. Juan Carlos I (Bus station) Tel: (0034) 922 730 133 Paseo Marítimo Playa de Las Vistas Tel: (0034) 922 787 011
Taxis: (0034) 922 715 407
HOLIDAY GUIDE Twin Tickets can be purchased for Siam Park and Loro Parque. www.siampark.net Lost Property Offices Tenerife North Airport: (0034) 922 635 855 Tenerife South Airport: (0034) 922 759 391 Arona: (0034) 922 725 562 Costa Adeje: (0034) 922 710 606 La Laguna: (0034) 922 608 805/922 251 080 Puerto de la Cruz: (0034) 922 378 448
Evangelical Service Centro Apolo, 1ª planta, Los Cristianos, Arona. Tel: (0034) 922 792 007 Services: Sundays at 11am and 6pm Swedish Church Abroad Coronel, s/n, Los Cristianos, Arona. Tel: (0034) 922 75 00 68
Radiotaxi La Laguna (0034) 922 255 555. Puerto de la Cruz Tourist Office, Casa de la Aduana, C/ Las Lonjas. Tel: (0034) 922 386 000. Centro de Información Turística, C/ Puerto Viejo. Tel: (0034) 922 370 243/922 388 777. Taxis: (0034) 922 378 999. Loro Parque, Avda. Loro Parque s/n Tel: (0034) 922 373 841 Open every day from 8.30am to 6.45pm www.loroparque.com
Taxis: (0034) 922 747 511 Tourist Office Costa Adeje Avda. Litoral Playa Fañabé Tel: (0034) 922 716 539 Jungle Park: Urb. Las Águilas del Teide, s/n Tel: (0034) 922 729 806. www.aguilasjunglepark.com. Aqualand Avda. Austria, 15 Tel: (0034) 922 715 266. www.aqualand.es Twin tickets can be purchased for Aqualand and Jungle Park, see websites. Siam Park (The Water Kingdom) Avda. Siam Park s/n. Tel: (0034) 822 070 000.
Santa Cruz: (0034) 922 606 354 Religious Services In Spain, Catholicism is the main religion and almost all towns and cities, including tourist resorts, have churches where mass is frequently held. Below is information about Catholic services held in languages other than Spanish and services for other faiths. Holy Communion Anglican Church, Iglesia de San Eugenio, Las Américas. Tel: (0034) 922 793 143 Services: Sundays at 10.15am Anglican church, Puerto de la Cruz www.allsaintstenerife.com/
San Sebastián Tourist Office C/ Real, 4. www.sansebastiandelagomera. org/turismo/ Taxis: (0034) 922 870 524
Tourism Board C/ Triana, Las Palmas. Tel: (0034) 928 219 600. www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo.
Valle Gran Rey Tourist Office C/ La Noria, 2, La Playa. Tel: (0034) 922 805 458 www.lagomera.travel/islascanarias/la-gomera/es/acerca/ visitar-valle-gran-rey/
Las Dunas Tourist Office Avda. De Tirajana (Hotel Riu Maspalomas), Playa del Inglés. Tel: (0034) 928 765 242.
Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, Avda. Los Menceyes. Tel: (0034) 922 315 265. Open: Tues-Sat: 9am-8.pm. Sun, Mon, Bank holidays: 10am - 5pm. www.museosdetenerife.org.
La Gomera
Gran Canaria
Las Canteras Tourist Office Paseo de la Playa de Las Canteras (opposite the Hotel Meliá) Tel: (0034) 928 446 824. www.lpavisit.com.
La Laguna
Teguise Tourist Office Plaza de La Constitución, s/n Tel (0034) 928 845 398 www.turismoteguise.com
Island Tourist Board Avda. España (Yumbo shopping centre), Playa del Inglés. Tel: (0034) 928 771 550. www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo. El Portón Tourist Office El Portón Shopping Centre, Playa del Inglés. www.turismo.maspalomas. com.
Lanzarote
Taxis Valley Gran Rey: (0034) 922 805 058
Costa Teguise Tourist Office Avda. Islas Canarias s/n Tel: (0034) 928 592 542 www.turismoteguise.com
La Palma La Palma Tourist Office Avda. Blas Pérez González s/n Tel: (0034) 922 412 106 www.visitlapalma.es Taxis: Radiotaxis La Palma: (0034) 922 181 396 www.taxilapalma.com: 686 553868 Radiotaxi San Miguel: (0034) 922 416 070 Los Llanos de Aridane Tourist Offices: Avda. Dr. Flemming, s/n Tel: (0034) 922 402 583 / (0034) 922 402 528 www.lapalmacit.com Llano de Argual, 31 (also handicraft shop) Tel: (0034) 922 401 899
Playa Santiago Tourist Office Avda. Marítima, s/n. Tel: (0034) 922 895 650 playasantiago@lagomera. travel
Taxi rank: (0034) 922 462 001 www.taxilapalma.com / (0034) 686 553 868
Taxis: (0034) 922 895 698
Puerto Naos Tourist Office Puerto Naos car park Tel: 618 856 516
Fuerteventura Puerto del Rosario Tourist Office Avda. De la Constitución, 5 Tel: (0034) 928 530 844 Taxis: (0034) 928 850 059 / 928 850 216 Corralejo Tourist Office Plaza Grande de Corralejo Tel. (0034) 928 866 235 Taxis: (0034) 928 866 108
Arrecife Tourist Office Parque José Ramírez Cerdá s/n Tel: (0034) 928 813 174 www.turismolanzarote.com
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Morro Jable Tourist Office Avda. Saladar, Jandía shopping centre Tel: (0034) 928 540 776 turismo@playasdejandia.com Taxis: (0034) 928 541 257
Fuencaliente Tourist Office Plaza Minerva, s/n (Minerva Square) Tel: (0034) 922 444 003 Taxis: (0034) 922 434 071 www.taxilapalma.es Caldera de Taburiente National Park www.visitlapalma.es/recursos/recurso-parque-nacionalde-la-caldera-de-taburiente / www.reddeparquesnacionales. mma.es Theme Parks Maro Parque, Breña Alta. Tel:(0034) 922 417 782. www.maroparque.com Palmex Cactus, El Paso Tel: (0034) 922 464 862 Paraíso de las Aves, El Paso Tel: (0034) 922 485 701 All information was correct at the time of going to press. Please confirm before travelling.
Lago Martiánez Avda. De Cristóbal Colón, 1 Tel: (0034) 922 385 955 Taxis: Servitaxi (0034) 922 378 999 La Orotava Tourist Office C/ Calvario, 4 Tel: (0034) 922 323 041
Pickup Point 2nd Home Tenerife C.C. Plaza del Duque
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
26
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
The Hole 2
Debauchery and fun!
In the midst of the May fiestas, the cabaret show The Hole 2 will be rocking Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz. The second version maintains the successful sexy format of it’s big brother The Hole, with circus, a freak show, comedy, cabaret and music, an explosive cocktail of international artists, and plenty of lower forms of amusement! The Hole managed, without doubt, to create a new concept of the club, theatre and cabaret combination in Spain, and was seen by over a million spectators. It took the burlesque
That tiny guitar Lanzarote-born Benito Cabrera is a timple and folklore soloist resident in Tenerife. He was the first interpreter to take the timple (a small Canarian guitar-like instrument) to the symphony orchestra stage, and has now taken part in several concerts with the Tenerife, Córdoba and Galicia Symphony Orchestras. He has not only performed on all the Canary Islands, but has also taken part in macrofestivals such as Womad, Atlántica and Son Latinos.
genre to the highest levels, and changed the character of the theatre-going public. The Hole 2, inspired by the old-style variety shows, starts two years after The Hole ended its run. Life has changed for the former Mistress of Ceremonies of The Hole. In an age where culture, music and fun are experiencing a crisis, she is wondering to what extent we need to enjoy ourselves. After a horrific post-party depression, she decided to leave The Hole, settle down and marry a well-off lawyer, leaving aside the debauchery and
fun to lead a ‘normal’ life. But what she wasn’t expecting was to be taken back to The Hole for her hen night party, where she would reconnect with her past, and more! If you missed the first show, don’t worry, The Hole 2 promises to bring strong feelings and a love triangle loaded with laughter and art. The twohour show has already been extremely successful in cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao and Cartagena, and now it’s Tenerife’s turn to be revolutionised! Be prepared for total,
unforgettable enjoyment. Even the intermission will be action packed, so have your mobiles ready to take some selfies with the artists and send them to your friends! The Hole 2 will be performed in a large marquee in the Parque Marítimo car park in Santa Cruz, from May 6 to May 29. It is only for those over 18 years old. Tickets, priced from €17.50, can be purchased online from www. atrapalo.com, or from www. theholeshow2.com where you can also find more information n about the show.
Three Canarian concerts
Malú returns
Following Malú’s extremely successful tour in 2014 which included the Canaries, this month she is returning to promote her latest album, Caos. Malú, whose full name is María Lucía Sánchez Benítez, was born in Madrid in 1982 and began her professional career in 1998, although she began singing when she was only 15 years old. She was born into a family of great artists such as her Uncle, the late Paco de Lucia and her father Pepe de Lucia, and was surrounded by talent, art and music. Nowadays, she fills stadiums and other venues and turns every one of her songs into a hit. Her audiences love to sing along, especially when she sings her most famous numbers, such as A prueba de ti, or Blanco y negro. Malú is one of the most loved female singers on the Spanish pop music scene, having sold over three million discs all over the world with 21 platinum discs to her name. She is also one of the artists with the most awards and nominations, both on a national and international level. Last year, Malú participated for the second time as a coach on the TV programme La Voz (the Spanish version of The Voice), and was the image of L’Orèal Paris and an ambassador of Swarovski. This year, she will be in concert as part of a national tour, first at the Gran Canaria Arena in Las Palmas on May 27. On May 28, she will be at the Tasagaya Stadium in Calle del Poeta Aristides Hernández Mora in Güímar at 9.30pm, and finally at the Agapito Reyes Viera Stadium in Arrecife, Lanzarote on May 29. Tickets for her concert in Güímar are available from www.ticketmaster.com as well as Halcón Viajes, FNAC and Viajes Carrefour, and tickets for all her concerts, which cost from €28 to €49, can be purchased online from www.maluweb.com. n
Versatility and style
As well as an accomplished musician, he is a great ambassador for the Canaries, having
performed in a wide range of countries including The United States, Cuba, France, Holland, Norway, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Germany, England and Japan – quite literally taking the Canarian timple around the world. At the same time, his interest in exploring new ways of expressing his own understanding of Canarian music and local culture is such that he has written several books on ethnographic investigation, and made con-
tributions to various encyclopedias about Canarian culture. Benito also created two methods of learning to play the timple, one of which was audiobased. For several years, he was a timple professor at the Canarian Superior Music Conservatory. He has released nine discs as a solo timple player, in which he demonstrated his versatility by combining music styles from folk, through classical music to pop.
Make the most of this opportunity to see the great artist performing on what is now his home island. He will be in concert at the Teatro Leal in La Laguna on June 4 at 9pm. Tickets, priced from €8 to €12 are avail-
able from the box office, Mondays to Saturdays from 11am to 1pm and 6pm to 8pm, and on the day of the performance from two hours before the show begins. For more information, see n www.teatroleal.com.
HOLIDAY GUIDE SPIN NEWS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
José Luis Perales
A Spanish legend visits On his first gracing of the Islands in years, José Luis Perales will appear in Santa Cruz in mid-June. One of the most revered singer-songwriters of his time, Perales is the author of hit songs from many of the greatest Spanish voices around, such as Lola Flores, Rocío Jurado, Mocedades, Isabel Pantoja, Vicky Carr, Vicente Fernández, Daniela Romo, Yuri, and Alejandro Fernández. He is also a great singer and performer in his own right. See José Luis Perales at the Tenerife Adán Martín Auditorium on June 11, starting 9pm. Tickets cost between €25 and €50 and can be purchased from the auditorium’s box office, open 10am - 3pm from Monday to Friday, and 10am - 2pm on Saturdays, as well as for two hours before the show begins. Alternatively, you n can buy online via: http://auditoriodetenerife.com.
Faithful to his art
Seven Islands, Seven Loves For enthusiasts of sacred art, another opportunity to visit the Siete Islas, Siete Amores exhibition is currently taking place in the borough of Garachico. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the collection of works by La Laguna artist Santi González Arbelo is a touring exhibition which is on show in various venues around the Islands throughout the summer months. One of the main highlights is a range of beautiful reproductions of the various statues of the patron saints from around the archipelago. The perfectly executed statuettes are reproduced down to the finest detail and each is an incredible objet d’art in its own right. The original idea for the exhibition was conceived by Santi and the late Father Jesús Mendoza, a prior of the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, to offer the religious community and general public the opportunity to admire a range of locally produced sacred art works. See the collection in Genoves until October 15. For more information you can contact Santi directly by emailing: semillas19@yahoo.es. You can also find him on facebook at: Santi Glez Arbelo Tenerife or see a roundup of previous exhibitions at: www.youtube.com. n
27
Food, wines and cocktails
Gastrocanarias 2016 This year’s Gastrocanarias event takes place during the last week in May, at the International Trade and Congress Centre in Santa Cruz. The specialist food based event not only includes the Absolute Regional Canarian Chefs’ Championship, but plenty of other activities aimed at promoting Canarian gastronomy. There will also be concurrent contests, master classes, talks, conferences, wine tastings, product samplings and cooking workshops, as well as companies displaying their products and services on around 130 stands. In addition, there will be two large stages, where the contests, workshops and culinary demonstrations will take place during the taste-orientated fair which received 12,000 visitors last year. The guest island this year is La Gomera so we can expect to see quality specialities such as almogrote, delicious preserves and cakes and plenty of fresh
Powafunk Five years after the release of Subway to Venus - award winning ‘best disc by a bassist’ at the Todobajos Bassday Festival - Charlie Moreno now presents Powafunk. During the intervening years, Moreno has combined his work of touring with leading artists on the Spanish music scene with the creation of his own recording outfit, Blackbird Studios. For his latest work, a change of direction sees Moreno giving up his front-man position as a bassist, with prominence being given rather to the voices of singers Alex Delgado and Alba Pérez. Influenced by classic funk, but with an air of modernity, the disc highlights the daring that audiences have become accustomed to. This may be
The presentation committee disguised as chefs, including Narvay Quintero (councillor, Agriculture and Fisheries, Canarian Government), Casimiro Curbelo (La Gomera president), José Manuel Bermúdez (Santa Cruz mayor), and event director José Carlos Marrero
agricultural products. The first scheduled culinary demonstration will be presented by the renowned Michelin star winning chef from La Gomera, Braulio Simancas, who is head chef at the Hotel Bahía del Duque. Other contests include ham cutting, young Canarian chefs, designer bocadillos (snacks and sandwiches) and, for the first time, the Absolute Regional Canarian Bakers’ Championship.
Drinks which have their own sections: Canarian classic cocktail mixing, speciality gin-tonic cocktail mixing, and cocktail-making acrobatics, all of which are a delight to watch, and Tenerife’s wines are not forgotten, either. They have a special space reserved for them, called Calle del Vino, where you will be able to taste beverages from the different denominations of origin and from various wineries.
Whether you have a sweet or savoury tooth, this will be a food lover’s delight with plenty to entertain you. The Salón Gastronómico de Canarias takes place from May 24 to 26 at the Recinto Ferial in Santa Cruz, and will be open to the public from 10.30am to 8.30pm. Entry costs €5 per day, or €10 for all three days. See: www.recintoferialdetenerife. com or www.salongastronomin codecanarias.com.
A groove tsunami
Photo: www.teatroleal.com
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
the most ambitious project to date for Charlie Moreno, a band composed of seven
exceptional musicians who are not likely to leave anyone feeling indifferent. In his own
words, Moreno said that it’s time to get people dancing. He will do just that with a repertoire consisting mainly of original compositions, plus some covers of hits within the style: all with his personal touch. Powafunk has come to stay, and they intend to do so in the form of ‘groove tsunami’, meaning that the audience will be hard pushed to remain in their seats during this concert! Powafunk will be taking over the Teatro Leal in La Laguna on June 11 at 9pm. Tickets, which cost €8 to €15 are available from the box office, Mondays to Saturdays from 11am to 1pm and 6pm to 8pm, or from two hours before the start of the concert. See n www.teatroleal.com.
HOLIDAY GUIDE WHATS ON 2016
28
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
May
May
GRAN CANARIA TENERIFE DIARY DATES May 12 8.00pm: Orquesta Camerata De Gran Canaria, classical music, Expomeloneras, Plaza de la Convenciones, San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
DIARY DATES May is a party month for Los Realejos, loads of events organised. losrealejos.es May 12
9.00pm: Sergio Dalma, Spanish singer, from €35, Gran Canarian Arena, LPGC. Entrees.es. 10.30pm – 11.30pm: Come and Dance, starter’s workshops, exhibitions, live music, Free Entry, Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Zumba, HipHop, Plaza de San Isidro, Gáldar.
8.30pm: Quantum Ensemble, classical music, from €6, Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, SCdT. es.patronbase.com. 9.00pm: Toñín Corujo Quartet, jazz music and photography, Free Entry, Patio de las Palmeras, Museo de La Naturaleza y El Hombre, SCdT. www.museosdetenerife.org.
May 14
May 12 – 15
May 13
5.00pm: Children’s fiesta, Free Entry, bouncy castles, climbing, zip lines, town square, Valleseco. 6.00pm-7.00pm: tapas, beer and boiled eggs in a ‘preparation party’ for the giants’ (papahuevos) parade, Free Entry, DJ Yone, Plaza de San Isidro, Galdár. Followed by the parade at 6.00pm, El Roque – Enconada – Plaza de San Isidro. 9.00pm: Coti, Argentinean singer/songwriter, from €18 pre-purchased (€3 more on the day), Centro Cívico Carrizal – Ingenio. www.festivalmarabierto.com. 10.30pm: Street party, Free Entry, live music from Aquarela, main square, Valleseco. 11.00pm: Street party, Free Entry, live music from Arena and Linea DJ, fireworks, Plaza de San Isidro, Gáldar.
Night and day: Mueca Festival, street theatre and music, some shows are free others cost €5-10, mainly open air, Puerto de la Cruz. www.festivalmueca.com. May 13
May 16
May 20 7.00pm: Youth choirs concert, Free Entry, Antiguo Convento de San Sebastián, Los Silos. 9.00pm: Coti, Argentinean singer/songwriter, pre-purchased from €18 (€3 more on the day), Paraninfo, La Laguna University. www.festivalmarabierto.com. 10.30pm: Street party, live music from Kimbara, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal. May 14
May 20-22
5.00pm: Bouncy castles, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal. 8.00pm: Reyes Bartlet choir, Spiritual songs and carols, Free Entry, Iglesia Ntra Sra de Los Remedios, Buenavista del Norte.
May 21 8.00am: Hiking with Valleseco, Ruta del Agua – Crespo – La Laguna – Los Castillos, register at Tourism office, 928 618 022, extension 221. www.vallesecograncanaria.com. 7.00pm: Harlem Globetrotters, basketball exhibition, From €19.80, Gran Canaria Arena, LPGC. Entrees.es. May 22 10.00am onwards: Traditions Day, Free Entry, craft fair, tastings, dog show, exhibitions, live music, horse racing, bouncy castles, zumba, area recreativa, La Laguna, Valleseco. Until May 15 Maspalomas Pride, now in its 15th year. maspalomaspridegrancanaria.org.
EXHIBITIONS Until May 22 Cada Respiro (Every Breath), audiovisual art by Glenda León, Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderna, Sala Antonio Abad, Vegueta, LPGC, Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 10am – 2pm. www.caam.net.
4.00pm: Pink Bracelets Workshop, 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. 6.00pm: Astro and nocturnal photography masterclass by Daniel López, limited places, €30, Museo de La Naturaleza y El Hombre, SCdT. www.museosdetenerife.org.
9.00pm: World Kora Trio, jazz music and photography, Free Entry, Patio de las Palmeras, Museo de La Naturaleza y El Hombre, SCdT. www.museosdetenerife.org.
All day, Valleseco, local holiday for San Vicente Ferrer, banks and some businesses may be closed.
Gran Canaria Gastrofest, Edificio Miller and the back of Parque Santa Catalina, tastings, workshops, exhibitions etc. www.grancanariagastrofest.com/.
May 18
May 19
May 15 9.00am-10.00am: Farm animal show, Free Entry, San Isidro ravine, Gáldar. 7.00pm-8.00pm: Flower fight, Free Entry, decorated carts and cars, live music, San Isidro, Gáldar, followed at 9pm by a folklore concert by En-Cantadores in the main square. 10.30pm: Street party, Free Entry, live music from Armonía Show, fireworks, main square, Valleseco.
insurance, lime kilns, tastings, honey-extraction exhibition, medium difficulty, Arico, limited places book at 922 531 013. teneriferural@teneriferural.org. 10.00am: Bouncy castles, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal. 6.30pm: Folklore festival, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal. 8.00pm: Street party and fireworks, live music from Elicio, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal.
8.30pm: Tangatos, tangos, music and dance, €12, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, Arona. www.arona.org. 9.00pm: La Trova, concert, ballads and more, English and Spanish, €12-15, Teatro Leal, La Laguna. www.teatroleal.com. 9.00pm: Night race, 400 runners, Guía de Isora town centre, areas for spectators, be aware there could be some traffic hold-ups. www. guiadeisora.travel. 9.30pm: Street party, live music from Proyecto Joven, Free Entry, El Hayal, El Sauzal. May 15 9.00am: Guided ethnographic hiking route, To the Beginnings of Honey, €15 incl. bus and
7.30pm: Jethro Tull, concert, from €45, Pirámide de Arona, Arona. www.ticketbell. com. 8.00pm: Canarian Music from Piélago, Free Entry, Edificio de Usos Múltiples Federico Pérez Hernández (main road opposite the shops near the petrol station), El Tanque. May 21
May 24-30 Ficmec, Environmental film festival, Free Entry, films, talks, workshops, exhibitions, stalls, recycling, lots to do and see, Garachico. www.ficmec.es. May 25 TBA: Breast cancer awareness talk for the deaf, 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. Until May 29 The Hole 2, entertainment (over 18s only), €17.50, Parque Marítimo, Santa Cruz. www. theholeshow2.com. Thursdays 7.00-9.00pm, International Gospel School led by The Latonius, Escuela Municipal de Música, Adeje (Las Torres, opp. police station). tlgospelchoir@yahoo.com. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 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 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 Events for specific groups, families, seniors, women etc., Activate Sports Club. www.tenerifeactivate.com.
EXHIBITIONS Until May 13
8.00am: Hiking with Arona council, Benijos – El Dragillo – Las Palmas de Anaga – Faro de Anaga – Roque Bermejo, register early (before May 14) online or at the SAC offices. www. arona.org. 10.00am – 2.00pm and 4.00pm – 7.00pm: Games Day for children of all ages, jugglers, workshops, crafts, animals, dance, clowns, bouncy castles, cars, music, sport and lots of games, Los Silos main square and surroundings. May 22 10.00am – 8.30pm: Hidrofest, ecologically friendly festival, Free Entry, workshops, live music, environmental projects, suit all ages, Punta de Hidalgo, La Laguna.
Los Volcanes salen a la Calle, a mobile exhibition about volcanoes travelling to all the boroughs this year, Free Entry, Centro de Formación Municipal, La Guancha, 10am-1pm and 4pm-7pm.
May 24-26
Until May 22
10.30am-8.30pm: Gastrocanarias, €5 per day or €10 for three days, exhibitions, tastings, cookery and cocktail demonstrations, workshops, professional competitions, master classes, talks etc. www.salongastronomicodecanarias.com.
Pájaros (Birds) Paintings, Per Lillieström, contemporary of Óscar Domínguez, includes photographs of his studio by Karina Beltrán, €7 general entrance fee, reductions for Oaps, students, residents etc. TEA, Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, SCdT, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 8pm.
For regular church, charity and recreational events, please see: www.islandconnections.eu/1000003/1000027/0/41004/living-lifestyle-article.html
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
MUSIC
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Led by The Latonius
A new gospel school A new international gospel school has now begun in Adeje, under the leadership of the world famous gospel choir director The Latonius. Latonius was born in Milwaukee, spent most of his life in California, and lived and worked in Hamburg, Germany for over four years before deciding to settle in Tenerife. During the international gospel workshop held in March at the Cultural Centre in Adeje, mayor José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga and cultural councillor Adolfo Alonso were delighted to confirm that this was only the first in a series of classes with the establishment of the International Gospel School in Adeje. Regular, permanent classes have now begun at Adeje’s Municipal Music and Dance School. The director of The Latonius Gospel Choir told us that the aim is to train students to a level whereby they will be able to form part of a new additional choir for the south of Tenerife. You don’t need to be a singer to join us, everyone is welcome, of any nationality. If you would like to learn about gospel music and eventually form part of this new choir, come along every Thursday from 7pm to 9pm. It’s fun! The classes are held in the auditorium at the Escuela de Música y Danza, in Las Torres, opposite the police station in Adeje. n For more information email tlgospelchoir@yahoo.com.
29
Qfm Music Review
When Tenerife meets Brazil Forty Canarian and Brazilian musicians, a recording studio, and Tomás LP Cruz at the helm. The result, Projeto Brasileiro; an album nominated for the International Category Award for Cubadisco.
in Canarian musicians playing Brazilian music in all its forms, and this album precisely replicates the concept within the studio. The album consists of many Brazilian standards, covered by
Participating musicians and vocalists include Miguel Manescau, Satomi Morimoto, Mariano Steimberg, Polo Ortí, Yukine LP Morimoto, Natanael Ramos, Fernando Barrios, Jonás Superstereo, Rosye Brown, Ana Beat-
Tracklist
After founding and guiding the TenSamba Festival on the island of Tenerife for several years, it occurred to Tomás LP Cruz that a studio album would be the perfect evolution of the event. The festival specialised
means of unique and creative arrangements and production techniques, a credit not only to the participating musicians but also to the studio engineers at Takeo Music. The album offers eleven tracks, including vocal and instrumental arrangements, which will not disappoint any lover of Brazilian genres.
riz Alonso, Danilo Pureza, Fernando Ortí, Naudo Rodrigues, Cartu García, Jonay Aguilar, Sadai Martín, Noel González and Diego Alamo. Listen to tracks from Tomás LP Cruz - Projeto Brasileiro on Qfm 94.3 and Qmusica.com, or purchase the album from www. zarandarecords.com, Amazon n or iTunes.
1. Brasil a Gosto (Tomás LP Cruz & Joyce) 2. Atlántico (Tomás LP Cruz & Chico Pinheiro) 3. O Sol Brilhou (Tomás LP Cruz & Danilo Caymmi) 4. Samba Connection (Tomás LP Cruz, Ricardo Herz & Fábio Torres) 5. Pedra Selada (Tomás LP Cruz & Marina Machado) 6. Cheiro de Café (Tomás LP Cruz & Roberto Menescal) 7. Final Feliz (Tomás LP Cruz & Teresa Cristina) 8. 22 Na Bahia (Tomás LP Cruz & Marku Ribas) 9. Quase Tudo (Tomás LP Cruz & Leo Cavalcanti) 10. Jangada (Tomás LP Cruz & Milton Nascimento) 11. Recomeço (Tomás LP Cruz & Flávio Renegado)
SPOTLIGHT
30
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Spotlight on a wounded town
Remembering Los Cristianos Words and photos by Alyssa Alexandre www.picsarama.com / www.fleurdelange.com It was April 14 and the end of a ridiculously long day; I was tired to my bones as I got on the bus to head to my home in Los Cristianos. There was this strange, unhappy feeling inside me, like I’ve had enough of the world for one day and my only wish was to get some shuteye. I was glad to note that it wasn’t busy on the bus and I sighed with relief in the anticipation of the quiet drive. Unfortunately, that feeling didn’t last
moments when everything is going downhill and you console yourself by saying “well, at least it could be worse” and then it rains. I saw emergency vehicles whizzing by as we were waiting to sort out our problem but, of course, they didn’t stop for us; they weren’t even looking in our direction. I heard that there had been an acci-
things were actually worse than I’d imagined. When I woke up that morning I didn’t realise anything was off. I spent the previous night in Santa Cruz, and as usual when I have important appointments to keep, I overslept! My email and Facebook profile were full of bizarre messages. I emailed a friend of mine who dedicated years of his life to volunteer-
it in Photoshop. Exactly half of the five-storey building was ‘cut’ from the picture, leaving a senseless open space in its place. It took me a while to realise it was just down the road from where I live.
Independent of how physically close I could have been to the disaster, it simply wasn’t mine. It was disconcerting in too many ways, though. Humans spend their entire lifetimes trying to perfect the art of cre-
ture and TV sets, along with other random belongings. They were no longer searching for survivors and flowers were laid at the bottom of the green fence that served to keep people away. It was suddenly obvi-
A tribute to the victims outside the Cultural Centre in Los Cristianos Residents and loved ones placed flowers, letters and personal items as a tribute
The building collapse on April 14 devastated many homes Locals held a candlelit vigil in memory of those who lost their lives
long because ten minutes into the trip we broke down without so much as a peep of warning. Before we had the chance to cross any significant distance, we found ourselves on the curb trying to not look like we were stranded in the middle of nowhere – which of course, we were. It was like one of those frustrating
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dent in town so I messaged my landlady to check if everything was all right, as we live in a small building close to the affected area. Our little nest was unharmed, she assured me. It was such a busy day that I didn’t have a chance to watch the news or process the information. At that moment, however, I began to wonder if
ing for the fire service asking what was going on. Instead of replying, he just sent me a picture of the street view featuring a familiar-looking building before and after the collapse. At first I couldn’t understand what I was looking at because the image didn’t make sense. It looked incomplete, somehow, as if someone had worked on
When I finally made it home, I found that my street was cordoned off. Police cars were peppering the perimeter, making way for ambulances and Red Cross vehicles that perched along the sidewalks, waiting to be allowed access to the wounded part of town. People were circling around, talking and pointing. I wanted to stand and stare for a while, trying to share in the superfluous feeling of survivor’s luck. I couldn’t feel it.
ating something out of nothing, only to come face to face with the fact that it takes less than a minute to be wiped from existence. Days later, when they finally stopped the works, taking away the barriers that shielded the street from prying eyes, all of us could see inside the broken building as if we were suddenly granted the unlikely gift of Xray vision. We peered into the homes of people who used to live inside, seeing their furni-
ous that in a delicate world, irreparable damage often has the last word. If somebody asked me to sum it up and draw a sensible conclusion to the story, I’d be at a loss. The building crumbled, people sadly died. It was so indescribably tragic. Home is where someone is meant to feel the safest, shielded from outside dangers. To have your safe place disintegrate in front of you, taking everything with it – taking everyone in it – is simply incomprehensible. In the several weeks since the collapse, you can feel that the town is still very much in shock, understandably. A real sense of heartache is felt by all and April 14, 2016 will forever be marked as a black day for n the town.
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
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Where should I invest? before being the best performer in 2012. UK gilts were top in 2008 and 2011, but in the bottom three for six years.
By Paul Montague, Partner, Blevins Franks
Two of the most common questions asked by investors are “when should I invest?” and “where should I invest?” With regards to the first question, while market volatility can provide opportunities that those with capital to invest can take advantage of, we generally recommend ‘time in the markets’ over ‘timing the markets’. Trying to time the market has risks, particularly the risk of missing out. Then there is the temptation to try to predict which assets or shares will perform best. Again, this is fraught with risk, especially if you put too much of your investment capital into ‘one basket’. There are just too many unexpected situations that can crop up, geopolitically, economically, within a particular company etc, which can impact market and asset prices – sometimes negatively, sometimes positively.
“While market volatility can provide opportunities that those with capital to invest can take advantage of, we generally recommend ‘time in the markets’ over ‘timing the markets’.” What about which assets you should invest in for 2016? If you look at a table of the topperforming asset classes over a number of years, what is clear is the lack of consistent asset class performance. I have a table produced by Russell Investments that lists the
top 12 performing assets from also bottom in 2008, 11th in 2004 to 2014. Here are some 2013 and 10th in 2014. North examples from that table: America equity was bottom in 2004, top in 2013, and ranged The only asset to be top three from 4th to 11th in between. times was global emerging mar- Moving away from equities, Sterket equity, in 2005, 2009 and ling high-yield bonds went from 2010. But it fell to the bottom 5th in 2004, to 11th, to 6th, to of the table in 2011, and was 9th, to 8th, to 3rd, to 7th, to 5th
With such inconsistency of asset class performance, it is risky to try to predict which specific assets will perform best. Rather, you need to reduce risk by having a balanced and diversified spread of assets, countries, companies, sectors etc within your portfolio. The first step, however, is to understand your risk profile. Obtain a clear and objective assessment of your personal appetite for risk. You can then establish a portfolio strategy that is suitable for you. If you have capital to invest but are wary about committing all of it now because you are unsure what markets are going to do next, ask your adviser about the ‘pound cost averaging’ approach (it can be in euros too of course). This phased approach to investing reduces risk while allowing you to have some funds invested when markets rise.
These views are put forward for consideration purposes only, as the suitability of any investment is dependent on the investment objectives, time horizon and attitude to risk of the investor. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, as can the income arising from them. Past performance should not be seen as an indication of future performance. 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 tailormade 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
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Moneycorp
There has been a recent change of fortunes with the British pound gaining ground against the single currency. Bank of England Governor Mark Carney was keen to share his view on the UK’s current position and future prospects during his Economic Affairs Committee speech. He made strong reference to the negative economic implications should the outcome of the UK’s EU referendum vote be Brexit. Carney indicated that the Bank of England still has room for conventional monetary measures, which may be called upon should UK economic conditions flounder after a Brexit outcome; although there is no appetite to dip into negative rates territory within the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee. So the message is clear, interest rates in the UK could be tweaked below the current 0.5 per cent level. No doubt opinion poll releases in the run up to the poll date of June 23 will hold sway for sterling. The UK’s unemployment rate was released with the outcome unchanged at 5.1 per cent, its lowest level since before the
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Currency updates Photo: Epizentrum CC A-S A 3.0 UL
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The European Central Bank in Frankfurt, Germany
financial crisis. There are now 22.9 million people working full-time in the UK, 289,000 more than a year earlier. The pound was little changed as at the same time average weekly earnings data saw wages climb by just 1.8 per cent - hardly runaway inflationary pressures as a consequence of a tighter labour market. UK retail sales continued its impressive run of improving
conditions. March 2016 retail sales by volume increased by 2.7 per cent when compared to the same month a year ago. Sterling climbed higher on this release in spite of Brexit concerns. Sterling/Euro made it as high as €1.2750 at one point. From the Eurozone, the single currency was unable to benefit from an uplift in German Investor confidence as meas-
ured by the ZEW expectation index. Confidence rose for a second month taking the reading to its highest level this year at 11.2 for April, up from 4.3 reported in March. The recent rebound in global equity markets, further European Central Bank (ECB) stimulus measures to help support growth and improving economic conditions in China have helped rally current sentiment. How-
ever, Brexit fears are never far from the minds of German respondents, with changes in UK opinion polls likely to sway near term views. Italy’s banking authorities have made it clear that much needs to be done to help shore up the Italian financial system. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi continues to impose reform measures aimed at making Italian banks financially safer and less likely to fail or to spread contagion. With €360 billion worth of doubtful loans burdening the Italian banking system the need to finalise a new funding plan, and to take steps to deal with non-performing loans as soon as possible, is a major concern for the EU as well. The ECB decided to keep all key interest rates unchanged at the April meeting as was widely expected by market consensus – triggering short-term volatility. The Bank is still clearly concerned about inflationary developments and ensuring low inflation doesn’t become entrenched. There was little new in the press statement to suggest that the ECB was con-
templating any further measures, although a spat with Chancellor Angela Merkel following Germany’s criticism of the ECB’s low interest rate policy does not paint a picture of harmonious EU accord. ECB president Mario Draghi was quick to counter any disparaging German remarks, insisting the ECB does not take orders from politicians. Any challenges to the ECB’s independence would dent confidence in the Eurozone’s recovery. The single currency traded lower having initially spiked as high as $1.1399, only to drop back down to $1.1250 against the US dollar. The Dollar was also stronger following the news that America’s jobless claims had fallen to the lowest level since 1973, further underpinning confidence that the US economy remains well positioned to grow throughout 2016. For competitive exchange rates, low transfer fees, expert guidance and the special offer of your first transfer for free, call Moneycorp on freephone: +34 922 683 985. Also visit: www.moneycorp.com/ n islandconnection.
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
BUSINESS
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Establishing your business in the Canary Islands
The best taxation in Europe By Octavio Cabrera rely on the corporate tax sta- cost, and finally optimising of goods made by them, are Director of Cabrera Rodríguez Lawyers & Tax Advisers. Lawyers, Accountants, Experts in tax and business planning, international transactions and investments. In one of our last articles we mentioned that the Canary Islands Special Zone (hereinafter ZEC as per the Spanish acronym) is the most relevant tax advantage of our taxation regime on business income, which is one of the most attractive aspects of this singular corporate tax status that is unique in Europe. The right combination of this tax tool, together with the right decision on the business to be opened, provides a wonderful scenario for entrepreneurs or international companies planning to invest here. The ZEC is a low-tax zone which has been created within the framework of the Canary Islands Economic and Tax Regime (hereinafter REF as per the Spanish acronym), for the promotion of the economic and social development of the Islands with the aim of diversifying the economy. It was authorised by the European Commission in January 2000. On a general basis, any entity or branch which intends to carry out an industrial, commercial or service activity included in a determined list of authorised activities can set up under the ZEC regime, in compliance with certain requirements. The most relevant tax advantages for the ZEC companies
tus plus some other important advantages on indirect taxes. ZEC Entities are subject to the Corporate Income Tax in force in Spain, at the reduced rate of four per cent (the overall rate for Non-ZEC companies is around 25 per cent). This special rate will apply to a maximum amount of the income tax, depending on the number of jobs created. It’s also relevant to mention the Income Tax Non-resident exemption. The distribution of profits to non-residents has no further tax in Spain except in their own jurisdiction. The dividends paid by ZEC subsidiaries to parent companies resident in another country as well as the interest and other incomes from transfers to third parties of capital and capital gains from real estates, obtained without a permanent establishment, are exempt from withholding tax. This is a matter of great significance for non-resident entities from the EU, the Directive over mother-subsidiary companies, opens a great scenario for tax-planning as some countries declare those dividends at the residency of the shareholder as exempted. The distribution of profits to resident holding companies is also exempted of tax at the holding Spanish company. In the countries where it’s applicable (such as Spain), these two last statements could also be worked for the purpose of planning inheritance tax. The right structure could imply a tax on trading income at four per cent, building wealth in a holding company at zero per cent
the wealth and inheritance tax scenario. The exemptions described also apply to incomes from the residents of any state where such incomes are paid by a ZEC company and come from operations materially and effectively carried out within the geographical area of the ZEC. These exemptions do not apply when the income is obtained through countries or territories with which there is not an effective exchange of tax information, or when the parent company has its tax residence in one of these territories.
Property Transfer Tax and Stamp Duty (ITP-AJD) The ZEC entities are exempt from these taxes in the following cases: • Acquisition of goods and rights for the activity, development of the ZEC Entity in the geographical area of the ZEC. • Corporate operations done by the ZEC entities, except their dissolution. • Documented legal acts related to transactions of these entities in the geographical area of the ZEC. Another advantage for the ZEC entities involves the Canary Islands General Indirect Tax (IGIC as per the Spanish acronym). This tax is similar in nature to VAT, although there are major differences such as the lower tax rates (seven per cent in general terms). The supply of goods and services among ZEC entities, as well as imports
exempt from IGIC.
Requirements to become a ZEC entity • The company must be newlycreated, with its registered address and effective place of management within the geographical area of the ZEC (Canary Islands). • It’s necessary to conduct activities that are permitted in the ZEC, according to a specific list of authorised activities (wide range). • There must be a minimum investment of €100,000 (in Gran Canaria and Tenerife) or €50,000 (in the rest of the Islands) in fixed assets related to the activity within the first two years, following registration in the Official Registry of ZEC Entities (hereinafter ROEZEC). • It’s necessary to create at least five full time jobs in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, or three in the other islands during the first six months following registration in the ROEZEC and this average must be maintained during the time that the benefits are enjoyed. • The sole director or at least one member of the board of directors must be resident in the Canary Islands. ZEC tax advantages are compatible with other REF tax incentives like the Reserve for Investments, the regime of deductions for investments and the tax-free areas, within the limits of the EU Law on accumulation of financial support and under certain conditions.
Octavio Cabrera Toste Director, Lawyer and Tax Adviser
The procedure to obtain the qualification of ZEC entity entails –in general terms- the elaboration of a precise project that includes some documentation from the investors, reports about the economic investments and business perspectives allocated to a proper development of the pretended investment. The project must be submitted to the ZEC Consortium Board to start the process which could last a maximum of two months. Cabrera Rodríguez is a legal firm with a detailed knowledge of the particularities and special features concerning the Economic and Fiscal Regime of the Canary Islands, with exten-
sive experience and specialised staff in the ZEC entities from a legal, fiscal and economic perspective (our rate of approved projects is 100 per cent). Our firm combines the ZEC tool with the right international company structure within the framework of legal certainty and tax efficiency in order to provide our clients with the most effective planning which could create an immediate substantial advantage in comparison with any competitor. We are available for any consultation, in which case you can kindly contact us via our email address: info@cabrerarodriguez.com or visit our website n Cabrerarodriguez.com.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Decades of controversy over cannabis
Legalising cannabis as a medicine The Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards once flatly told the press, “I never had problems with drugs, only with the police”. The cannabis plant has a history of medicinal use dating back thousand of years across many cultures, but its current use is still controversial. Things have moved ahead slightly, at least in some parts of the world, while in others, the political struggles continue. The first concessions have been made, with cannabis being made legal in some countries for those with a medical prescription while the potentially positive effect of the cannabis plant has been revealed by scientific studies. Meanwhile, some renowned experts refuted that cannabis is a gateway drug which inevitably leads to the consumption of additional and more dangerous drugs. Rather, they are increasingly becoming aware of the healing components of the plant, which can have a positive effect for sufferers of various serious illnesses.
Global politics deal with hash At a special UN session held in New York in April and chaired by Ban Ki-moon, all participants were called to a serious and objective discussion of a world without drugs. They discussed demand reduction and
related measures, including prevention and treatment, as well as health-related issues; and ensuring the availability of controlled substances for med-
meeting spoke of thousands of supporters in the world, from the ranks of politics, business and celebrities. Cannabis associations around the world advoHemp can be used in medicine with positive effects Large and small illegal marijuana plantations are repeatedly dug up, even in the Canary Islands. There are also legal clubs
ing, marketing, sale, purchase, possession and consumption of herbal cannabis in specific circumstances by certain persons; and for connected purposes.
The situation in Spain
ical and scientific purposes, while preventing their diversion for abuse. Also on the agenda were drugs and crime, drugs and human rights, new challenges, threats and realities, and development-oriented drug control policies. An open letter which was submitted to the
cate the legalisation of cannabis consumption in the private and the medical fields. Critics complain that rigorous drug policy in recent years has only benefited the drug barons whose businesses boom while consumers are branded as criminals.
Cannabis in the UK The possession of small quantities for personal consumption in the UK is essentially illegal, but this is often not enforced. Despite its illegality, there are many cannabis clubs, under the umbrella of the UK Cannabis Social Club which was founded in 2011. Members meet to discuss the drug’s production, medicinal use, legalisation, and of course, to get high! In August 2015, the British government strongly rejected any notion that it might legalise cannabis after more than 200,000 people signed an official government petition asking for the law to be changed. The petition called for the legal production, sale and use of cannabis. Supporters argued that legalising cannabis could bring in taxes, save on policing costs, and create thousands of new jobs in the country. The group also called
the substance “safer than alcohol” having been used by humans for over 4,000 years before being made illegal in 1925. The British government responded in a statement, saying that, “Substantial scientific evidence shows cannabis is a harmful drug that can damage human health. There are no plans to legalise cannabis as it would not address the harm to individuals and communities.” This came despite legalisation becoming an increasing reality in the country’s chief ally, the United States, where several states already allow the drug for recreational use and many more have done so for medical use. However, in March this year, the Cannabis (Legalisation and Regulation) Bill 2015-16 had its first reading in the House of Commons, and a second reading is due on May 13. In summary, the Bill would amend the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 to provide for the lawful production, packag-
The laws in Spain regarding cannabis are also strong, and have been the subject of discussion and debate for many years, but the possession of small quantities for personal consumption is no longer a crime. At the end of 2013, Mariano Rajoy’s government tried to change the laws for the protection of public safety by reducing fines for possession and consumption of hashish and substituting them for detoxification treatments. At the same time the government wanted to introduce fines of €1,000 to €30,000 for planting and cultivating the plants. Needless to say, this project attracted heavy criticism and didn’t go very far. Spain now also has cannabis social clubs where people can access the drug legally, and in many cases they have to pay a tax for it. They are adults only clubs, and those wanting to join must be recommended by an existing member. Garden centres and specialist shops now openly sell packets of cannabis seeds and other paraphernalia, with the result that nowadays, many of these plants can be seen happily growing on apartment terraces, presumably for personal use.
Events in favour of marijuana The Global Pro Marijuana March is an annual rally held
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
in hundreds of cities across the planet. These cannabis-related events are held in early May, and can include marches, meetings, rallies, raves, con-
erlands, Spain, Italy, Finland, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Israel, Canada, New Zealand and in 20 US states. In Switzerland about half a million
rosis, Tourette syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, receive waivers and are allowed to buy medical cannabis. In a further 62 diagnoses the person concerned could also achieve this right to relief. Since the cost is very high, many patients have also campaigned for self-cultivation. It is also conceivable that controlled marijuana farms selling cannabis to a targeted market would be more cost-effective. The list of positive actions of the active Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CB) found in hemp and hemp
depression, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, sleep and anxiety disorders, epilepsy, bipolar disorders, autoimmune diseases and rheumatism. The side effects of chemotherapy or the consequences of AIDS suffering can be alleviated. Cannabis as a medicinal plant was even mentioned by the famous natural healer and abbess Hildegard von Bingen in the eleventh century. She said that, “It is openly gentle and useful in the stomach since it somewhat takes away the mucus. It is able to be digested easily; it diminishes the bad humours and makes the good humours strong.”
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ity problems and he only takes a low dose of these capsules. This miracle cure is of course no reason to portray cannabis as a panacea in the treatment of cancer. It has, however, been confirmed by medical studies that hemp oil acts against brain, breast, lung, prostate, blood, liver, pancreatic and oral cancer. In many cases, the cannabinoids destroyed the cancer cells, and the growth of tumours stopped or they became smaller. It was also proven that the side effects of traditional chemotherapy could be alleviated. Currently, cannabinoids are used in the form
ziness, tiredness and nausea, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, headaches and eye redness. Even mental disorders are possible with an inaccurate dose, and pregnant women are advised not to take it at all. For more information see www.patient.info/doctor/cannibis-use-and-misuse.
Poster for the protest marches organised by the German Hemp Association: “Global Marijuana March The times are changing! Demonstration for the legalisation of cannabis 07.05.2016, 2pm Your town, meeting point” Courageous Bremen leads the way A US citizen with his legal cannabis consumer card Coffee shop menu in Amsterdam
certs, festivals and information tables. It began in 1999, and is a celebration embracing the cannabis culture as a personal lifestyle choice. Those taking part unite to discuss, promote, entertain and educate both consumers and non-consumers alike. Global Pro Marijuana is very popular in Brazil, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, France, and Germany where it will take place in over 30 cities this year. In the UK, there will be events in 22 towns and cities, while in Spain 14 towns and cities on the Peninsula have events planned and, in the Canaries there will be events in La Laguna and Santa Cruz, as well as Lanzarote, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura.
What are the others doing? In Austria therapies are not currently possible with finished hemp, as preparations of cannabis are, according to the Narcotic Drugs Decree, prohibited. Cannabis or its agents may be used for medicinal purposes in Belgium, the Neth-
Cancer therapy
people consume cannabis, illegally, regularly or occasionally. There, consumption is banned, but is punished only as a misdemeanor and since October 1 2013, only a small fine of CHF 100 has been applied. In February 2016 several cities, including Basel, Bern, Geneva and Zurich announced the legalisation of cannabis benefiting 2,000 subjects.
The medical effect In many parts of the world, patients have had to fight for the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Nowadays in some countries, patients with chronic pain, multiple scle-
A flowering plant, ready to be harvested
oil is long. It includes positive effects against diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis,
At the age of 77, the former United States dentist Stan Rutner received a diagnosis of lung cancer with metastases in the brain. In recent years he and his wife, a lymph and breast cancer victim, overcame the problem with conventional medicine, but eventually Stan no longer wanted to continue with chemo- and radiotherapy. Within a short time, he could barely breathe or write, suffered from insomnia, a large weight loss and muscle paralysis. His short-term memory failed. The doctors gave him only a few weeks to live, and sent him to die in the hospice. His daughter Corrine and her husband John heard about the positive effects of cannabis. They live in Northern California, one of the states which has legalised its use, so they had access to it. They treated him with capsules based on hemp and coconut oil. Stan quickly improved. Three years later, in 2014, the now 80-year-old was discharged as cured. He has no more breathing or mobil-
of processed tablets, sprays or boiled hemp oil. Natural, herbal extracts have always performed better when compared to processed cannabis preparations.
Risks and Side Effects Miracle cures are not always as good as they seem and patients should definitely discuss them with their doctor. The possible side effects include diz-
Cannabis as a business After the use of cannabis in the US was legalised in several states for medical purposes or for personal use, some celebrities now stand by their consumption or invest in this area. Cannabis shops are no longer illegal and have become socially acceptable. Oscar winner Whoopi Goldberg, who says that cannabis offers her relief from severe headaches caused by her glaucoma, co-founded a start-up company, which sells products for menstrual discomfort. They are cannabis-based and available under the brand name Whoopi & Maya. Melissa Etheridge, who says medical marijuana saved her from the excruciating side-effects of chemo, saw a promising business idea in selling hemp wine. Country singer Willie Nelson and reggae legend Bob Marley each had their favourite variety designated and marketed under their names. Even rapper Snoop Dog, who once said of cannabis, “It makes me feel the way I need to feel,” has started a distribution business for different varieties and accessories. Director Kevin Smith and actor Woody Harrelson are each investing in a Cannabis pharmacy. Former NBA star Cliff Robinson plans to open a cannabis business this year in Oregon supplying all types of products and called Uncle Spliffy. There are many reasons why cannabis should be dealt with more openly and for a more accurate examination of its n healing powers.
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
+34 697 888 666 • m_delaflor@hotmail.com
Sneaky depression triggers
Sun and fun should be a healthy marriage if temperance tames exposure
Dear Dr. De La Flor,
How often do you recommend having a skin checkup? Thanks, B. Dear B, Recommendations vary depending on a myriad of personal and family health-related factors. However, if attentiveness were proportionate to organ size, then our outer cover will be at the very top of the ranking. Regardless of the season, living in the Canary Islands entails a constant, merciless UV ray bombardment. The brightest star can be a brilliant ally but it could also turn into a dark enemy. When I perform a skin exam I like to remind patients of the American Cancer Society’s ABCDE rule to evaluate skin changes: A stands for lesion ASYMMETRY. B is for BORDER irregularity (if edges are ragged, notched, or blurred). C is for COLOUR (uniform pigmentation or with tan, brown or black shades). D stands for DIAMETER (any growth of a mole should be of concern). And finally, E is for ELEVATION (uneven surface). If you like, we could also add an F to the alphabet: an F for FUN. Sun and fun can and should be a healthy marriage if temperance tames sun-exposure. Often, a vivid epidermis eloquently reveals our overall wellness approach. Have a restful summer! “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.” Audrey Hepburn, film and fashion icon
Dear Dr. De La Flor,
Is it ok to drink alcohol while taking birth control tablets? I normally drink in moderation. Regards, N.H. Dear N.H, As you might have noticed, pharmaceutical companies do include inside the package a compelling list of possible side
effects associated with taking oral contraceptives (OC). The more risk factors involved, the more chances we all have of suffering adverse reactions. When moderation is absent, alcohol will inevitably end up impacting not just liver function, but also cardiovascular as well as behaviour and/or judgment issues. OC aren’t sweets. OC are potent hormones that among other things, reduce our liver’s ability to metabolise alcohol and many other tablets. In other words, we may get drunk more quickly than we did before we started to use them. Moderation is a non-negotiable variable on any health-oriented lifestyle education. As a rule of thumb, we are normally better off erring on the side on prudence, and also listening to The Beatles’ suggestion: “All the world is birthday cake, so take a piece, but not too much.” George Harrison
Dr. De La Flor Facts
Thumbs Up By Dr. De La Flor
Grocery savvy
Let’s buy real fruit. 100 per cent homemade fruit juices are the real McCoy! They are naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and disease-fighting antioxidants and what to say about the sublime taste and indescribable colours and aroma?
A sweet steal
Heart attacks, vision loss, movement problems, lingering wounds, brain function decline - Diabetes steals quantity and quality of life. The ability to ward off diabetes-related disabilities entails prevention, and thus empowering lifestyle changes: a healthy diet, weight management, daily physical activity, and avoiding smoking are some of the vital ingredients.
Get a date with nature!
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play
(3 of 6) Mostly an underactive but occasionally an overactive thyroid can mimic a subtle depression. Overactive function can be accompanied by palpitations, tremors, and anxiety. An underactive one can cause constipation and skink dryness. Both can share a persisting fatigue.
Much more than a fashion
accessory Sunglasses are indispensable in safeguarding the wellbeing of your eyes and surrounding tissue. UV radiation augments your odds of acquiring cataracts, pterygium, pingueculum, macular degeneration, etc. Sunlight bouncing off highly reflective surfaces such as water, sand or pavement can add insult to injury. Let’s be watchful with your eyes!
Coaching Corner By Dr. De La Flor Tagaste was a Roman colony in North Africa, currently Algeria. Historians describe this senescent land as the very hub of civilisation and a cradle of Berber culture. Berber tribes proudly call themselves by an unpronounceable word meaning free people. In 354 AD, the village witnessed the birth of a prominent philosopher, the beloved playboy turned beloved bishop, Augustine. Despite the centuries, you can still visit the venerable olive tree where the free-spirited Augustine used to go in search of healing for his inveterate habits and his pestered conscience. Let’s now gaze to the right on the Mappa Mundi. It’s just a tiny leap into a stratovolcanic archipelago of 6,852
ReSOLUTION By Dr. De La Flor For the next fortnight, you and I can ponder on our attitude when tacking chronic disease, chronic limitation. Every sequela tattooing our body, our mind or our conscience needs to be counterbalanced by unpretentious planting, and counteracted by unassuming toil. Healthy planting will turn into healthy, aromatic fruits. Today, someone, somewhere, and somehow is already enjoying the very nectar of what you and I planted yesterday. The translucent tears you and I shed last night are already whispering to the wind their epistle, it’s a message with a precious scent. It’s the scent of purposeful pain. You are so precious. “When one loves, one does not suffer; but if one does suffer, the very suffering is loved.” Augustine of Hippo, philosopher
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: 00 34 697 888 666 or email him to register.
DO MORE THAN HOPE FOR THE BEST
902 886 226
Join us and combat cancer
“If we magnified blessings as much as we magnify disappointments, we would all be much happier.” John Wooden, 1910-2010. The Pyramid of Success
www.todocancer.org 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
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©2014 FLN
Live better, longer, fuller
islands. In one of them there’s a discreet town, Shintomi. It belongs to the land of the Rising Sun, the land where Mr and Mrs Kuroki live. In 1956 they tied the knot and they bought farmland. Joy, toil and merriment swiftly transformed the house into a home. The home had a conspicuous aroma stemming from the sixty cows roaming the property. Three decades quickly went by. Suddenly, a severe diabetes complication robbed Mrs Kuroki’s sight. Visionless, insulated by desperation and by an ever-growing insulin dosage, the sweet condition soured her soul. The husband envisioned a plan though. He devoted the next two years transforming the farm into a Shibazakura garden, made of cherry blossoms and aromatic flowers. Now, every spring their backyard blooms into a carpet of scent-packed flowers. It is an intimate blanket of affection, a tapestry of love. It is a carbon copy of Mr. Kuroki’s heart, a visionary and handy plan for his wife’s handicap. You know, for some, a blooming carpet is the very hub of healing, for others it is the sheltered meditation by the olive tree. The ancient Latin adage comes to mind - Natura sanat, medicus curat – the physician treats, nature heals.
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in and pray in, where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul alike.” John Muir, Scottish naturalist and philosopher
©2014 FLN
Dear Dr. De La Flor
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
FASHION
37
Shirts and blouses
Mix ‘n’ match versatility!
Classic, simple and always nice: the white blouse in shirt style with breast pockets. From Next
All photos: www.prshots.com
A blouse is unbeatable for mixing and matching with other items, the combinations are endless and for that reason alone, they are an integral part of your fashion wardrobe. Long or short sleeved, sleeveless, with or without a collar, fitted or loose and full - the choice is immense this summer. This ensures that every woman can find the perfect fashion addition for every occasion. The term blouse is derived from the same French word, and the original translation is a smock or dust coat. The background to this is that the French Crusaders wore a blue protective coat over their armour, the socalled vintage blouse. The modern blouse was gradually developed from this concept. At least as popular as the blouse is the shirt, which was originally designed as underwear before it became a complete fashion success. There is also a wide selection of shirts n for this season.
Decorative buttons and epaulettes for this delicate summer blouse. From Marks & Spencer Romantic: Cool broderie anglaise. From Sainsbury’s Soft-fitting shirt with net and crochet inserts. From Betty Barclay Sleeveless for casual wear. From M & Co
With capped sleeves and a concealed button placket. From Bonmarche
PETS
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Adopt, don’t buy
Animal charities’ round up Acción del Sol At our recent Spring Clean event we asked friends of the refuge to help us bathe 200 of the dogs. The helpers were all assigned a dog and a brush and sent to work! The dogs loved the attention and it was a welcome break from their life in the kennels. We have again received a large number of puppies, some barely days old, so we are in desperate need of milk and volunteers to help us bottle feed the puppies every four hours,
the above to spare they would be very much appreciated at the refuge. We are situated directly under the Eolica Park where the wind turbines are, at Exit 52 on the
One pooch at Acción del Sol’s Dog Clean event in desperate need of a bath!
which puts an enormous strain on our already heavy workload. Please call or visit us if you would like to help. We are looking for volunteers to walk the dogs so if you have a spare afternoon then please visit us and make a dog or two very happy. Please call the refuge on 922 778 630. We are always in need of tinned dog food, blankets, towels, dog toys, collars, etc. If you have any of
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
Live Arico (PAWS) On May 7 we had a fundraiser at Amanda’s Bar near our charity shop in San Eugenio. The event started at 2pm and was a big success. There were lots of top acts as well as a raffle, tombola and more. It was hosted by Derrick Lynes and featured 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. Please don’t throw anything away; call us on 629 388 102 and we can sell it to help the dogs. Bag a bargain at our shops in: San Eugenio (Open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm); Los
An elegant Aston Look at this cute little girl, isn’t she sweet? Aston is four years old and really needs her own home. Please consider adopting her, you can have a one week trial to see how things go. For more information call Sue on: 629 388 102. n Aston is currently at Live Arico (PAWS) waiting for a home
Acción del Sol has many beautiful dogs waiting for a new family
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 adoption
Tilly is a gorgeous tabby in need of a special home
Cristianos (Calle Reverón, near the Thistle and Dragon Bar. Open 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.
Cats Welfare Tenerife Can’t adopt? Sponsor instead with our brand new Cat and Kitten Sponsorship scheme; a great way of helping unwanted cats with nowhere else to go. We believe every cat deserves to live a healthy life in a happy home and we do everything we can to find new homes for unwanted cats and kittens. In the meantime, we care for as many as we can in foster homes. You can now sponsor a cat or kitten of your choice from our website with a minimum donation of only €3 a month. You will receive an
email that includes a certificate with a photo of your chosen cat or kitten and a copy of their profile which tells you a bit more about them. Not only that you will also receive regular email updates telling you how your sponsored cat is doing, and best of all we’ll tell you when we have found them
a new home and set them on the road to a happy future. If you struggle to think of what to buy for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, etc. then this is an ideal and inexpensive gift. To find out more or to sponsor your first cat, visit our website: www.cats-welfare-tenerife. com/sponsor-a-cat. We are thrilled to announce two new sponsors of Cats Welfare: Black Magic Bar, Golf del Sur and Golf97 FM radio (97.15fm). Together they are sponsoring two radio adverts for us to spread the word about our Charity Shop and what we do. Tilly is a gorgeous tabby in need of a special home. Her owners left her behind a year ago when they went back to the UK. She was left to fend for herself finding food wherever she could. She is a nervous cat and it will take her quite a number of weeks to settle into her new home. Once she does, you’ll hear she has a really loud purr and will make a wonderful companion. Ideally, due to her nervousness, she will need to be a house cat with no other cats or dogs. She’s about two years old, leukaemia-negative and we paid for her spaying and injections. We will also pay for a microchip. She has been through a lot but
we need to give her the chance of a fresh start. Could that be with you? If you are looking for a kitten or to home one of our adult cats in foster care, our latest availability is always shown on our website: www. cats-welfare-tenerife/pets. If you are interested in any of the cats shown, please contact Theresa on 680 475 500 (10am until 6pm daily). If you have good quality 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.
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
FARMERS MARKET
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
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
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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
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,
sary 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,
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.
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 neces-
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.
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.
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
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HOROSCOPES | CLASSIFIEDS
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Horoscope for period: May 12 to May 25 Aries 21.3 - 20.4 Your special kind of secretive allure can be extremely magnetic and people find it hard to forget you. It’s possible that a previous lover will be looking to return into your life. Remember why it ended in the first place and go slowly and cautiously.
Contacts
Taurus 21.4 - 20.5 Self confidence is running high. Keep a rein on your impulses as you may trample others underfoot. Your career prospects are excellent and you can look forward to unexpected support from your superiors or those in a position to help.
Cancer 22.6 - 22.7 There’s recurring tension in your home and family life. Exercise caution and be willing to compromise to maintain harmony with those you care for. Emotionally, this is a very challenging time and career goals must go on the back-burner until later.
Virgo 24.8 - 23.9 You’re still not out of the woods and your self esteem may be taking a battering right now. Don’t fret; better days are on the way, possibly as a result of your reaction to a recent major challenge. Put excess energies into sports or a new hobby. Libra 24.9 - 23.10 There may be some tension in personal relationships and if you are far from home, you could be feeling nostalgic and homesick. It’s time to take stock and count your blessings. Don’t get upset, better days are ahead and coming soon. Scorpio 24.10 - 22.11 Spread your talents and consider joining a voluntary group to help the community. You like being in charge and your leadership skills could be called on in the near future. Your efforts will be recognised by those who are important. Sagittarius 23.11 - 21.12 Career prospects are looking good. If you are unemployed you may soon be offered a new job. However, your focus at the moment is strongly on your friends and family. Try for compassion and don’t give yourself too many pats on the back. Capricorn 22.12 - 20.1 Your life seems to be toddling along in the groove you set last year with no major changes. The overall influences remain positive and somewhat spiritual. Consider taking up yoga or meditation: the focus will help you in all areas of your life. Aquarius 21.1 - 20.2 This is a passionate period of raw energy and self-empowerment for you. Your sex life in particular may be highlighted as will other strong desires and needs. You may be intensely physically attracted to someone new in your life. Pisces 21.2 - 20.3 So far, this year is proving to be less eventful than last but there are still some challenges out there for you to overcome. There could be some destructive influences around, so the best thing you can do right now is avoid risk-taking.
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. 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.
Gemini 21.5 - 21.6 It’s time to move forward and draw the curtain on past disappointments. Getting angry and then holding it in isn’t going to help your situation or your health. Keep calm but get any niggles off your chest before they spiral out of control.
Leo 23.7 - 23.8 Wow! You’re on a roll. There’s a strong aura of attraction around you right now and boy do you know how to use it. A strong period is coming up for relationships and you’ll have the opportunity to expand your horizons through a course or journey.
Los Cristianos, Anahi, age 25, no limits, French, positions, kisses, Greek, private apartment in Calle Noruega. Tel: 672 970 209.
Escort service, Russian girl, a real 25 years old, tall, blonde, slim, very pretty, educated, elegant, only serious discreet men who seek perfect company of a high level. 1 hour for €300. Tel: 697 277 545. Los Cristianos, Margaret, 28 years old, beautiful, slim, white, dominant, erotic massages, natural French, horny, adventurous, spectacular hips, explode in my mouth, private apartment, discreet, 24 hours. Tel: 692 506 973 / 687 129 426. New Brazilian in Los Cristianos, Eloa, first time on the island. Fiery, busty, perverted, totally complete. Discreet, sexy, erotic massage with a happy ending. Make your fantasies come true. Your home, outings or parties. Los Cristianos. Tel: 602 581 927. Las Américas, blonde Colombian, slim, beautiful, sexy body, all services, natural French, massages, erotic toys, threesomes, accompaniment to swingers club, private apartment, hotel visits, make your fantasies come true! I speak English. You will repeat this experience. Tel: 649 879 663. Los Cristianos, Patricia from Venezuela returns. Beautiful. Blonde. 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.
Yara, trans, Los Cristianos, great feminine body, immoral. Active, passive, versatile French. Massages with a happy ending. Private, very discreet. Active, domination, hot, golden skin. Contact me by WhatsApp and message on 603 714 295. 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. Los Cristianos, Paradise, erotic massages, relax, comfort, showers. A clean, peaceful, discreet place. You’ll be attended to by lovely national and international girls, great bodies, mature, young, fiery, complacent and agreeable. We offer all services and invite you for a free drink. Tel: 639 101 096. 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.
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 other services and Tantric. Attractive German lady. Without rush. Nice location. Jacuzzi. Tel: (0034) 619 614 380. Liberal German couple invites singles/couples to erotic parties, also threesomes. Tel: (0034) 648 245 425. Only for ladies: Excursions, wellness, shopping, erotic massages with Marc from Germany. I speak English well, have own apartment and car. My visit to your location is also possible. Tel: (0034) 630 759 974. New Latin girl in Los Cristianos. No limits! My private place or yours. 24 hour service. Tel: 639 121 699. Cockney girl, Ana, just what you need to get pampered. Stunning hot brunette. Let my pleasure be your pleasure, owo, French kissing. Los Cristianos, opposite the bus station. Tel: (0034) 611 203 925. Busty curvy. Tantric and Thai massage with a happy ending (no sex) at Los Cardones, San Isidro, second exit after the airport. Shower and tea service offered. There’s the possibility of a 4-hands massage. For appointments call 631 801 293. Los Cristianos, Latin with no limits. 23 years old. Calle Noruega, near Supermarket Altavista, Los Cristianos. Tel: 617 035 582. 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
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
The deadline for edition 772, which is published on 26th May, is 24th May. 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 media group s.l. www.islandconnections.eu
Island Connections Online: www.islandconnections.eu
Classifieds Deadline Next Edition
CLASSIFIEDS
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
41
General Services 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 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. 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 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
MASONIC MEETINGS Logia Ave Fenix Nº 73
Spanish and English Lawyers
Conveyancing • Inheritance & Wills Family Law • Criminal Law Civil Litigation & Personal Injury Timeshare • Tax & Commercial law You’re invited!!! FREE BEAUTY SESSION. This is your time to relax with friends or on your own, share the excitement of trying new products, learn about the latest techniques and trends and of course, earn fabulous rewards. More info: 642 601 553 Maggie. Are you looking for an opportunity with financial independence and personal fulfillment? Become an Independent Beauty Consultant!!! More Info: 642 601 553. For sale, cooker with three burners, spit roaster for chickens, three freezers, chairs and decoration. Tel: Carlos on 676 243 558.
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.
BLOCK BUSTERS WE UNBLOCK ALL TYPES OF DRAINS
Edificio Simón, Los Cristianos. Meetings every fourth Tuesday. We are back in October!
internal and external using our high pressure jets and cameras.
All Visitors welcome Contact John Donaldson (Secretary):
Call
(+34) 922 178 091 or ave.fenix73@gmail.com
647 928 223
We sell furniture suitable for bar/restaurant (tables, chairs, kitchen accessories, decoration etc.) in excellent condition. Price negotiable. Tel: 922 717 613 or 671 912 301
T: E:
922 719 520
tenerife@decottalaw.net
Av. de Los Pueblos, Residencial Villaflor B-20, San Eugenio
www.decottalaw.net
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Rental Classifieds Storage Rooms For Rent, Los Cristianos, Torviscas And Fañabé, 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. Newly completed and fully furnished, beautiful and wellestablished 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 loca-
CLASSIFIEDS ted 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. Chayofa. Quaint 2-bedroom apartment for rent, partially furnished with large terrace. Safe and secure, ideal for mature couple. €600 including bills. Tel: 609 588 038 after 6pm. Garage to rent, double width. Victoria Court 1, Los Cristianos. Close to Sunday market. Very secure lock-up. Tel: 679 919 623.
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
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038 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 German couple looking to buy a 1 bedroom apartment in the south of Tenerife - up to €100.000 cash (we speak English). Tel.: (0034) 662 50 71 91
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
Las Américas
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.
€ 122,000 Alan: 634 098 838
30€/month
Tel 629 244 958 € 155,000
www.teneriffa-fincas.net Apartment Tabaiba Alta For sale, only five mins away
Freehold
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.
€ 188,000
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
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
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. 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.
Vehicles To advertise please call 922 75 06 09
CLASSIFIEDS | PASTIMES
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
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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
Place your advert at
Advert Placement www.islandconnections.eu
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
Classified Agent for
(For Crossword and Sudoku solution see pag 40)
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
New and second hand books C. Juan XXIII, 29 Los Cristianos 922 797 542 www.libreríarehound.com
Veterinary practice for sale / Tenerife south
Porsche Panamera 2012 / 36.000 km 3.0L- 3.0 D/ Automatic Diesel /Sport 4doors / Color : White 1 Owner
€69,000
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.
Across
7 - crevices (6) 8 - order (6) 10 - upstart (7) 11 - manor (anag) (5) 12 - value (4) 13 - leave the path (5) 17 - sheet of paper (5) 18 - woody plant (4) 22 - baked light dough (5)
23 - fifth Greek letter (7) 24 - gestures (6) 25 - soprano (6)
Down
1 - staff (7) 2 - sway (7) 3 - travelled over snow (5) 4 - entry (7) 5 - foam (5) 6 - building complex (5) 9 - held up (9) 14 - body; trunk (7)
15 - simple song (7) 16 - narrower (7) 19 - timber frame (5) 20 - monarch (5) 21 - lending money (5)
MOTORING
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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Everyday motoring
Trad in more way than one
Tyre Safety
A sight to behold
Correct tyre maintenance is critical for your safety, whether you are driving the largest jeep or the smallest car. If you think about it, the tyres are the only part of your car which are in contact with the road. Safety in acceleration, braking, steering and cornering all depend on that relatively small area of contact. Therefore it makes sense that they should be maintained in good condition, and that when they are changed, the correct replacements are used. Good tread is essential to allow air to flow between the grooves to cool the tyres, and also to bite into water. It doesn’t rain often here in Tenerife but when it does, poor steering and braking performance are the result of bad tyre maintenance - with potentially dangerous results. Worn tread also means you are more liable for punctures, leaks and loss of pressure. Correct tyre pressure is vital. Under inflated tyres affect handling and grip, causing irregu-
Photo: Matteo Canessa
By Wheeler Dealers
Tyres are our only point of contact with the road
lar or unpredictable behaviour on the road. By keeping your tyres at their optimum pressure, your running costs are also reduced because under inflated tyres require a bigger force to make them turn, so your car uses more fuel.
Uneven wear on tyres may be caused by too much or too little air pressure, problems with alignment or balance, or defects with steering or suspension. Any cracking or bulging of the treads should be dealt with
immediately, as they could cause a potentially dangerous blowout, causing loss of control. If you go back to the UK and leave your car sitting without movement for months on end, always check the tyres as soon as you get back, as they may have settled on hot tarmac, causing damage to the lower tread. Build a relationship with your local garage, where you can call in to get your levels checked and take pro-active maintenance steps, such as reviewing your tyres, or feel free to call in to Wheeler Dealers in Las Chafiras, for a free no-obligation check. 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
In a wonderful mix of modern and conventional, bikers in Gran Canaria will take to the roads in traditional clothing on May 29, ahead of the Día de Canarias celebrations on the following day. The route for the ‘Romeria Motera’ event has yet to be confirmed, but one thing is sure: Anyone who is out and about on the day is in for a treat. Tipping their helmets to all things Canarian, the riders will be sporting cloaks, suits, scarves etc. in time-honoured fashion – and some of the ladies will even be wearing the heavily layered traditional skirts. For up to date information, place ‘Romeria Day MGC’ in an internet search bar – lots of the local motor sites n have the info for this fun trip out.
Fresh off the floor
Every second counts
The latest production figures for the UK’s car industry brought up a fascinating statistic recently: Throughout March a brand new car was finished, and ready to roll out, once every 16 seconds. The country’s production rate grew by 9.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2015, with 159,074 cars built during the month. The exciting news has thrilled people in the industry, with Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT, saying: “UK car plants were at their busiest for 12 years in March … thanks to heightened international demand for British-built cars. Much will depend on economic and political conditions in key markets but, with several new global models starting production here in the first quarter alone, the prospects for future growth look bright.” Which sounds great. But can production really get faster n than that?
Bluetooth home help
You can forget your head
The app uses Tile tags, tiny Bluetooth trackers that can be attached to important items and used to track their whereabouts using smartphone technology
tooth trackers that can be attached to important items and used to track their where-
abouts using smartphone technology. With the average person spending 15 min-
utes a day searching for lost items, according to a survey carried out by Censuswide, the unique in-vehicle app promises to put an end to all that wasted time. Once the app is initiated using the central touchscreen, customers are alerted if specified items are not inside the vehicle and are even able to get on-screen directions to their last known location. The Tile smartphone app is compatible with both Android and Apple platforms and the number of items that can be tracked is limitless. n Whatever next!
©2016 FLN
The 2017 Land Rover Discovery Sport is the car that never forgets thanks to the world-first integration of Tile’s advanced tracking app. The premium compact SUV is the first vehicle to incorporate the pioneering technology, in addition to enhanced new design, convenience and various safety features. The rush to work or the busy school run can often result in important items being left behind, but the new Discovery Sport is designed to make forgotten wallets and missing bags a thing of the past. The app uses Tile tags, tiny Blue-
12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
ISLAND CONNECTIONS 771
Chairman to stay on?
during the season. The 25year-old has previously played in Serbia and Turkey and will bring badly-needed power to the forward line, which has also seen Joseph Jones miss game time through injury of late. The signing of Gagic has sur-
prised some, given that Iberostar are safe from relegation. However, general manager Aniano Cabrera, who thanked Brindisi publicly for allowing Gagic to leave early, said it was important to finish the season n on a high.
Photos: CB Canarias
Tenerife’s long-serving chairman appears to be reconsidering his promise to stand down at the end of the season. Miguel Concepción, who has been at the helm of the club for just over a decade, had signalled his intention to make way for another chairman but recently dropped a major hint that he may continue. “Some investors in the club have asked me to reconsider my decision and to see through the plans we put in place” explained the far from popular Concepción, who has been called on by fans on various occasions to allow a more ambitious team to take charge and help Tenerife return to the top flight. Among the names tipped as possible successors is the former president of the Canaries, Paulino Rivero, although his election could land the club in trouble financially as it will probably have to give back several million euros in sponsorship if Rivero, who personally approved the deal when n in office, takes over so soon after leaving politics.
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Iberostar forced into signing
Basketball
CD Tenerife
SPORTS NEWS
Djordje Gagic undergoing a recent medical
Miguel Concepción has been at the helm of the Heliodoro for over a decade
Ladies’ football
Granadilla looks to Cup qualification
Photo: tigger11th freedigitalphotos.net
Tenerife’s top ladies’ football team remains on course to complete a magnificent first season in the top flight by qualifying for the Cup competition. The first eight clubs in the premiership contest the Cup and, barring a major collapse, UD Granadilla Egatesa should be among them when the league ends in a few weeks. The south Tenerife ladies turned in one of their best performances of the year in demolishing Basque side Oiartzun 40 to move a full ten points clear of ninth-placed Español, and can virtually start booking their tickets for June. The competition this year adopts a new format with knockouts instead of two-legged quarter finals and the Canarians will be confident of causing an upset even if paired with one of the giants of women’s football such as n Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao or Atlético de Madrid.
Ladies’ side UD Granadilla Egatesa remains on course to complete a magnificent first season
Injury-hit Iberostar Tenerife have had to delve into the transfer market again to secure cover for absentees. Just a few weeks after bringing in Dani Pérez as cover for playmaker Davin White, who has had a series of niggling injuries, the La Laguna premiership basketball club moved for a big forward to fill in for star player Blagota Sekulic, after the Montenegro international
Fabulous first year
Although most media attention focuses on the fortunes of Tenerife’s big football and basketball clubs in their respective leagues, the major success story of the year has been in the rather less well-known sport of women’s volleyball. Local side CV Haris may not have won the title but the club’s feat in reaching the championship final in its first season in the big time has not gone unnoticed. The low-budget Santa Cruz outfit stunned the SuperLeague with performances that saw it finish in the play-off places in the regular season and then go on to reach the final, losing out to the invincible Naturhouse, who have won the league and cup double for three years and are unbeaten since 2013 in domestic competition. The achievement is certain to help Haris, who play under the name of sponsors Fígaro Peluqueros, attract top players
had to sit out games due to a calf problem suffered against Real Madrid. The man chosen is also from the Balkans. Djordje Gagic, 25, has joined Iberostar from Italian side Brindisi, where he averaged 8 points per game
Volleyball ladies celebrate next season in a bid to consolidate the club’s status in the top flight and, hopefully, emulate the success of the now defunct CV Marichal, who ruled the game for over a decade and even won the European Champions League.
Among the Tenerife side’s players this year was Taylor Pippen, daughter of NBA basketn ball legend Scottie. Taylor, the daughter of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, plays for CV Haris
Photo: Steve Lipofsky Basketballphoto.com
Photo: Edub CC A-S A 2.0 GL
Djordje Gagic in training
SPORTS NEWS | POOL LEAGUE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 038
Ñandú Rugby Club
Canarian league and cup champions! who was, as ever, consistent in all aspects of his game. Las Palmas were very much up for the fight, with their backs threatening the Ñandú defensive line constantly. After a wonderful show of strength at the breakdown from the back row, Jacob burst through and powered his way over for Ñandú’s second try which was converted by Fran. Ñandú had a 140 lead. Las Palmas soon hit back, their pack bustling over
Los Cristianos tragedy, which was impeccably observed by all. Las Palmas were a big physical side and started the match strongly. Both packs battled each other in the early stages, both in the rucks and the set pieces. Ñandú broke through when fullback, Fran, used his pace to punch over the line. It was converted by skipper Jacob
One of the toughest sanctions ever handed out in junior football in the Canaries has seen a 10-year-old banned for seven months for assaulting a referee. The youngster, who plays for the Vélez Club in Gran Canaria, reacted furiously after being shown a red card in the game against UD Balos and kicked the referee twice before he was restrained by a club official. The match was called off and the league’s disciplinary committee decided to impose an exemplary punishment against the boy and his club for the headline-making incident. In another much-publicised disciplinary decision, an adult player from the Orona Santiago club in One referee in Gran Canaria La Gomera received a 15- was attacked by a young player match ban and two team after being shown a red card mates were given suspensions of 10 matches each after ugly incidents in their n fixture with Tenerife club Gara from Garachico.
Ñandú players enjoy their moment with the trophy
an excellent attacking move to score a stylish try to end the match with a final score of 36-19. It was an incredible match on a perfect day. Ñandú now look forward to their place in the Under-18s National Tournament taking place in mainland Spain. At the moment, we don’t have enough money to send them and we urgently need sponsors - companies or people willing to sponsor the players. We offer different advertising packages.
for a much deserved try, and started to put some pressure on the home side. The second half began hard and fast, with both sides scoring; Ñandú via their lightning winger, Edu. The score was
prop Gregor burst over the line in typical style, bringing the score to 36-12 and the match looked over; although, due to the character and style of Las Palmas, it was not quite finished yet. The visitors mounted
The boys have worked so hard for this and from nothing just two years ago we have got to this stage. Please get in touch if you can support us. Contact Paul Oakenfold on 664 36 10 58. n
The cup final was a fantastic occasion with strong, skilful rugby from both sides
The showcase was played at T3 in La Caleta in perfect conditions and in front of a large, vocal crowd. Ñandú would once again like to thank T3 for the support and professionalism that this world class facility continues to give our club. With all the respect that the sport of Rugby has, the day began with one minute of silence for the victims of the
Football bosses get tough
19-12 and the crowd were getting nervous and louder. Outside centre, Ryan, ended a great 15 man try, taking the pass from Toby to glide over the line. Minutes later Ryan took the ball just inside the opposition’s half, beat the defence, and stormed over for another great score, converted by Jacob and allowing Ñandú some breathing space at 31-12. With the crowd enjoying the sheer effort and commitment of the players, Ñandú’s brilliant
Not only did Ñandú finish top of the league this season, they also won the Canarian League Cup
Ñandú v Las Palmas 23.04.16 Final Score; 36-19 Not only did Ñandú Rugby Club finish top of the league this season, they are also now Canarian League Cup winners! Ñandú recently hosted Rugby Club Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the first ever Under-18s Canarian League final and what a marvellous occasion it was.
Exemplary sanctions
Photo: Lars Schmidt CC A-S A 3.0 UL
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12.5.2016 – 25.5.2016
FOOTBALL AND SPORTS NEWS
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CD Tenerife
Scandalous refereeing decisions damage the season By Chris Todd To talk about ‘conspiracies’ against CD Tenerife is perhaps going too far but at times it does make you think that we don’t get a fair rub of the green. The blanquiazules have been drawn away in the Spanish Cup first round for the last eight years. Is that just an incredible coincidence or a case of the authorities not wanting to send a team here for a midweek game with all the expenses involved? And just when Tenerife was pushing to get in line for a play-off spot they have been denied in three consecutive matches by very poor refereeing decisions. Even the local media of our last rivals Elche were honest after the 1-1 draw, writing on Twitter: “what a present referee Valdés Aller has given us today!” It is easy to shout sour grapes at the club and its fans due to the team’s failure to win over the last two matches but you really have to see these decisions to believe them. After having a perfectly good goal disallowed against Cordoba, the following week a Girona
goal stood even though their player was easily one metre offside. And then we had the debacle in the last game when two strong penalty appeals for Tenerife were not given. As it stands the blanquiazules are five points behind the playoff zone with 15 points still to play for. It’s a very difficult task now but with the squad still very committed the fight goes on until the last possible chance exists. 01/05/2016 Girona 1 CD Tenerife 0 A Lekic goal for Girona, who are the best team of the second half of the season, maintained the Catalans play-off aspira-
case of offside. To the amazement of the Tenerife defenders the goal stood. The game opened up slightly with both teams now pressing for goals and Choco Lozano, cheered on by a group of Honduran compatriots in the stands, almost equalised in the last minute but his effort was superbly blocked.
14/05/2016 CD Tenerife 1 Elche 1 The game was billed as the last chance for the blanquiazules to catch up with the top six in the league. Elche is enjoying a fine season and they knew that a win would take them to the edges of the play-offs. After a few half chances for both sides
The game finished with a narrow win for Girona, which keeps them on course for the playoffs, but for Tenerife it left a bad taste in the mouth.
the game really came to life in an entertaining second half. Tenerife took the lead after some superb inter-passing play between Suso and Nano which
culminated in youngster Nano bagging his 12th goal of the campaign. Elche star striker Sergio Leon, rumoured to be on his way to the English Premiership for €4 million, was kept largely quiet but there were flashes of why he is the league’s top scorer with 20 goals. In a crazy finale to the game, Nano squandered a one-on-one chance before having a goal disallowed for offside (which this time was a close but correct decision). However, things were not going our way and soon after two penalty appeals were waved away by referee Valdés Aller; shocking decisions. As can often happen, the visitors went straight on the counter attack and won a penalty themselves. The resulting penalty was saved by Dani in the Tenerife goal but unfortunately the rebound fell to an Elche player who scored to make it 1-1 and that is the way the game ended. The ref and his officials were booed off whilst the Tenerife players were cheered off the pitch. It was a fine performance but a win was really parn amount.
trips can be found at: www. nomadsfc.com. Nomads Youth Football Club still
needs a few extra players for the Under-10s, 12s and 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: www.premfs. com. Each team has its own webpage. 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 international website: www.premfs.com. n
Nano rues his chance against Elche but he has won plenty of valuable points for the team this season Choco Lozano’s clear penalty appeal against Elche was one of several waved away by the referee
tions in a bruising encounter. The home side controlled the majority of the match but found it hard to penetrate the penalty area with any clarity. CD Tenerife has become a tough nut to crack under manager Pep Marti and going into the game had gone 10 matches unbeaten. However the breakthrough for the home side came on the hour mark through the toe punt of Serbian striker Lekic in a clear
Local football fun
Nomads FC’s pitch perfect! Sponsored by: Foreign Language News & www.windowsplus.co.uk We have recently installed a new football pitch at our sports facility in Los Cristianos, along with a new state of the art artificial grass football pitch made by a top manufacturer. It is similar to what is known as 4G, and not only is it a great surface to play on it is very soft on the knee and ankle joints. Come and play social football on a great surface! Men’s 6s a-side league looking for new teams for the summer 6s league, so if you and some friends want exercise playing football during the summer, why not get together and make a team to play every week at
Nomads Football youth teams will go on trips to Granada and the Costa del Sol in early July 2016
our field in Los Cristianos? The Nomads Football youth teams will go on trips to Gra-
nada and the Costa del Sol in early July 2016, and the following week they will par-
ticipate in a UK competition against professional academy teams. More info on the
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