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February 7 – February 20, 2019 EXCLUSIVE OFFER

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Officially the largest foreign language newspaper in the Canary Islands

CONCENTRATION CAMPS

KINDLY LIGHT PROJECT

FASHION’S PATTERNS

El Hierro adventure

Murdered Canarians

Helping mothers

Serpently good!

Page 7

Page 13

Pages 14 & 15

Pages 18 & 19

SUPREME COURT RULING

Holiday Homes Act overturned One of the largest multinational platforms for holiday homes, Airbnb, last week welcomed the Spanish Supreme Court ruling overturning the Canary Islands Holiday Homes Act. According to the court, these are “the most restrictive standards in Europe with regard to holiday rentals”. The court challenged, among other things, the ban on renting rooms in tourist areas and the ban on offering individual rooms for rent. “The only plausible explanation for this is the targeted preference of the traditional overnight accommodation sector. This, however, violates free competition,” the ruling reasoned.

Continued on page two

The Canary Islands Government must revise its strict Holiday Homes Act

ISLAND COUNCIL VS. CANARY ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

Battle to stop the Agaete macro-port The Canary Islands Government intends to invest around €44 million in the expansion of the Agaete port in the north west of Gran Canaria, but some members of the public and the local politicians are opposing it.

Via the citizens’ group Plataforma Salvar Agaete sin Macromuelle (Save Agaete from the macro port), numerous inhabitants of Agaete, sympathisers and environmentalists are opposing the construction of an even larger harbour, which would cause considerable damage to the nature reserve and destroy the idyll of the fishing village forever. The people don’t want this and are against the large-scale project, which is nevertheless being pushed forward by the Canary Islands Government.

Representatives of the citizens’ movement handed over 33,216 signatures against the new mega port

Continued on page two

CANARY ISLANDS

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

GRAN CANARIA

Mission to halt overdevelopment Continued from front page In September last year, 43-year-old activist Antonio Hernández, known as ‘Rastatún’, went on a hunger strike, and thousands of people demonstrated for months, calling for human chains, collecting signatures and money to stop the mega-port project.

Island Connections previously reported on the background to the protest and the project.

The Gran Canaria Island Council is taking the side of the public. After a proposed referendum was rejected by the Canary Islands Government, the Council decided at the end of January in a plenary session to make three modifications to the PIO (installation and operational plan). These changes have a direct impact

Over 320 collectives and individuals supported the activists by crowdfunding

on the port project and make it impossible to implement.

However, the Island Council also made it clear that even though this was an important step, the Canary Islands Government, as the higher authority, would still be able to implement the project, albeit against the will of many voters and local politicians.

On January 24 the activists handed over 33,000 signatures against the project to the Canary Islands Government. In addition, through their activities locally and in local networks, they collected €11,580 in donations to be invested in the legal fight against the port. The Canary Islands Government stated that the will of the public could not decide on an infrastructure of general

LAWS TO CHANGE

Local tourism boost Continued from front page According to Airbnb, the decision provides an important impulse for affordable, authentic, integrative and sustainable tourism, which is run by the islanders themselves as hosts. “It is good news that the families and small businesses of the Canary Islands operating in this sector are benefiting from tourism. For every euro spent through us on the Islands, 87 cents go directly to the local landlords,” said Sergio Vinay, Airbnb’s public relations manager for Spain and Portugal. He also emphasised that his organisation was happy to work with local authorities to develop modern and sustainable legislation. n interest. But perhaps common sense could?

Today the port of Agaete, which is only regularly visited by the Fred Olsen fast ferry, is used to only a fifth of its capacity. Therefore, on March 15, 2018, the European Union Court of Justice ruled that the existing port, known as Puerto de las Nieves was not of public interest, but was being used for commercial purposes. The sentence literally implied that maritime transport is not of general economic interest. Since the major project is to be financed to 85 per cent

by the European FEDER fund, the sense of implementing a port that is not only destructive but is also rejected by more people than those who want it is definitely questionable. The activists in Agaete are certain: they will fight until the project finally bites the dust. They want to develop their village of Agaete, but in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The mega-port is out of the question for them.

It’s a battle that has been fought before in Granadilla in Tenerife – and lost. n

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Island President Antonio Morales modified the IPO

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7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

RISK OF INVASION

American termites eat away at houses The yellow-footed American soil termite has been spreading in Tacoronte for about a year and a half.

The first infestation occurred at El Pris, and the insects are now advancing further. The additional bad news is that they are currently affecting an area where the inhabitants cannot afford the expensive renovation of their houses. An insect invasion has also been reported in Valle Guerra in the borough of La Laguna and even in Arona, probably due to a plant that had been transported from a greenhouse to the south. According to experts, the island is alarmingly close to the point where there will be no turning back and the plague could become endemic. Nevertheless, at the political level, disputes over responsibilities are still slowing down active and immediate action. Actually, the Canary Islands Government should take over the fight, but it is acting sluggishly. The Island Council led by Carlos Alonso is pushing for swift action. A glance at the USA shows how urgent it is to eradicate these insects before they become permanent residents. There, two billion dollars are spent every year just to keep the insects in check.

A termite colony consists of between 20,000 and five million specimens and the queen lays 5,000 to 10,000 eggs per day. The insects feed on cellulose, and eat The insect, four to five milwood, paper, books and cotlimetres in size, eats its way ton. On the Spanish Penin- through the wooden construcsula they have even attacked tion of houses and, if necessary, potatoes and carrots. n even through bookshelves

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DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS CALL

Help for Venezuela The recent events in Venezuela affect many Canarians as well as Venezuelans who have been living on the archipelago for a long time, as both communities have been closely linked for decades.

During the first half of the 20th century, numerous Canarians fled poverty on the Islands and headed to South America. Even today, families remain close and many Canarian people have relations in Venezuela. In fact, around 100,000 Canarians live in the South American country and, conversely, numerous Venezuelans live in the Canaries.

Hence, Venezuela was known affectionately as the 'eighth island', until recently when La Graciosa was officially given that title.

Venezuela is currently in turmoil due to massive economic failures and an attempt by the opposition party to overturn the government and place a different leader at the head of the country. Tenerife's island president Carlos Alonso recently gave his support to

Carlos Alonso officially recognised Guaidó as President and called for Venezuela to be opened to humanitarian aid

the politician in question, Juan Guaidó, as new president and welcomed the fact that the European Parliament had also made the same decision.

Alonso called for free, demo-

cratic elections and the establishment of a corridor to allow humanitarian aid to enter the country. "It is essential that the Venezuelan government opens a means through which non-

profit organisations can bring aid to the country, especially food and medicines. The people are in an absolute emergency," Alonso said.

The Canary Islands Government has allocated €40,000 in aid to help Venezuelans who have fled to the Canaries as well as Canarians living on the other side of the Atlantic.

The situation is dramatic, as people from all levels of society are suffering from severe malnutrition, especially children. As well as basic foodstuffs, there is also a lack of medicines, so epidemics are spreading and many sick are not receiving vital treatment.

The inflation rate has leapt to well over a million per cent and human rights abuses are being broadcast weekly.

It’s estimated that more than three million Venezuelans have migrated to Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, the USA or Spain since 2014, many of them having to leave on foot with only a few belongings. n

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CANARY ISLANDS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

LORO PARQUE AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Climate change and plastic waste in the Canaries At the end of January, the Loro Parque Foundation signed several cooperation agreements and contracts with research teams from the two Canary Islands universities and the non-profit organisations Elasmocan and AVANFUER. This marks the start of the CanBio project, a research programme funded jointly by Loro Parque and the Canary Islands Government. Through this project, various research groups from the University of La Laguna (ULL) and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) are studying the impact of climate change on the sea, ocean acidification and the impact of these factors on marine biodiversity in the Canary Islands and Macaronesia, especially with a view to marine mammals, sea turtles, sharks and rays.

The project was launched last November and involves an investment of two million euros spread over four years.

In January it began with the installation of a measuring station on the Fred Olsen ferry Benchijigua Express. This station will provide information about the acidification of the coastal areas in the region. Another measuring station on the ship Renate

The freighter Renate P collects data in the entire Central Atlantic area

Analysing plastic waste contamination Another environmental issue of current concern is the study of the global contamination of water and beaches with microplastic particles. In this context, the Loro Parque Foundation, through its Education Department, started an educational project in January to

The agreement with the two Canary Islands universities was signed at the end of January

P belonging to the shipping company NISA Maritima will complete the research work over a larger radius. This ship travels between Tenerife, Las Palmas, Lanzarote and Barcelona and can therefore provide information about the whole of the Macaronesia zone.

In 2019, these two platforms will be joined by a Coastal Surveillance Network that will monitor marine environmental parameters related to climate change, oceanic acidification and acoustic submarine contamination and their impact on biodiversity in the Canary Islands. This network

will initially consist of two buoys equipped with scientific instruments, one off the coast of Gran Canaria and the other off Tenerife. In later years, various scientific missions will be carried out with autonomous vehicles crossing the seas of the archipelago and Macaronesia to provide information on the effects of climate change on the ocean and the distribution of cetaceans in the observation area. The aim of this work is to provide scientific circles worldwide with relevant data on the global effects of climate change. This will make the Canary Islands a bench-

On board, the measuring station supplies important data which can then be evaluated by the scientists

mark and at the same time the exact impact of climate change on the region can be diagnosed.

analyse plastic contamination on the Canary Islands' beaches. Around 400 senior students from various schools

in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and La Gomera, together with teachers from the Foundation, are studying the sand from 24 beaches in the archipelago to determine the differences. Initially, until the end of March, sand samples will be taken from the beaches near the schools. Studies will then continue until May when the results from all the schools will be presented and a community map will be drawn up.

On the one hand, the project encourages scientific work and, on the other hand, it raises awareness of the problem. Last year, young Canarians, as part of a marine conservation week, studied the presence of microplastics on the archipelago's coasts close to their schools and recently the Eomar group from the EcoAqua Institute of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria published a study on the contamination of the Islands with microplastics, which shows to what extent some beaches are polluted.

Against this background, the research now being carried out by the Foundation is of particular relevance. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

PROMOTION

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CANARY ISLANDS

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

PROMOTION | THEY'RE ALL ARONA

A luxury presentation at Fitur national tourism, given the uncertainty generated in recent months in the British

national reference that Arona will host throughout the year were promoted.

Photo: Edición Sur Comunicación Audiovisual

Arona recently attended the most important showcase for the tourism sector in Spain,

The Arona Municipal School of Folklore on the Canary Islands stand

market and the recovery of the Spanish economy. The major events of national and inter-

Accompanied by the Los Cristianos Carnival Queen for 2018, the Carnival agenda

Photo: Edición Sur Comunicación Audiovisual

Fitur in Madrid, to offer the many experiences and options to potential visitors "with the intention of generating emotions, using all our emotional artillery to draw attention to twenty-first century tourism, a quality tourism, which generates wealth among our residents and contributes to the progress of the borough" explained mayor, José Julián Mena.

The mayor, the councillor for tourism, David Pérez, and the councillor for fiestas, Pura Martín, were surrounded by many well known faces from the borough related to historical and cultural heritage, folklore, sustainability, sport, gastronomy, ballet or the struggle for equality. The aim, according to the mayor, was to attract new visitor profiles, such as millennials or

was presented, while it was explained that participation records were broken last year making it the second most important Carnival of the island, with over 125,000 visitors and an economic impact of more than 6.1 million euros. With the theme of 'The Jungle', this year's carnival will be held between March 21 and April 1, and the opening street party and parade will take place in Playa de Las Américas on March 23.

Carmen Mota, the legendary choreographer and dancer, whose ballet has been a reference at the Pirámide de Arona for years, attended the presentation of her show which has become one of the most popular and valued attractions for visitors. Also part of Arona is the actress Rossy de Palma, who has decided this year to support and help promote the third edition of ARN Culture & Business

David Pérez, José Julián Mena, and Pura Martín presented the Festival of Traditions

GOOD CAREER PROSPECTS

Beekeepers sweeten Canarian cuisine

Approximately half of the prospective beekeepers who completed a course offered by the Gran Canaria Island Council in January have found work in the labour market.

Canarian honey, which is produced on the Islands in its own cultivation area, not only enriches Canarian cuisine but also the tourism offer, especially as a jar of honey is very popular as a holiday souvenir. Over the last decade, the honey sector in Gran Canaria has grown by around 60 per cent. There are now 11,000 beehives in Gran Canaria that produce over 65,000 kilos of honey a year. Canarian honey is special due to the biodiversity of the vegetation and the Canarian black bees which produce it, which make it one of the best in the world. n

Most of the course participants made their way into working life

Pride, an annual event open to all audiences, which values contributions to society by the LGTBIQ collective.

This year, the festival will be held between June 18 and 23 "A not to be missed international event for those seeking a quality and different offer in the field of LGTBIQ culture, which is attended by thousands, brings a significant economic return and with very important national and international personalities taking part," said Pérez.

Accompanied by the group Efecto Pasillo and producer Martín Rivero, ARN Blue & Green and Arona Son Atlán-

tico were presented, a selection of events related to music and culture and based on environmental sustainability. The ARN Blue & Green clean concert will be held on August 24 with Efecto Pasillo as the first group confirmed on the bill, and more artists to be announced shortly.

Finally, on the first weekend of October, and under the patronage of the Arona Municipal School of Folklore, José Julián Mena, David Pérez, and Pura Martín unveiled a new edition of the event formerly called Traditions Day, which this year grows to become the Festival of Traditions. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

PROMOTION: HOLZBAU ELEMENT SL

New dynamics for homes with wood

Frank Durach has more than 35 years’ experience in wood processing, is well-versed in craftsmanship, always up to date and pays great attention to detail.

Skilled in all aspects of timber building, from roofing to turnkey construction, any wood element can also be combined with stone, glass, steel and colour if desired by the customer. The company came about after his family discovered their penchant for Tenerife and in 2018 decided to set up their own business on the island. And now Holzbau Element SL offers its customers an inclusive package from planning to completion, which is tailored to individual wishes and budget.

Wooden elements include extensions for additional living space, interior or garden embellishments, as well as carports and terrace roofs (also available as construction kits).

The company also offers dry construction, painting and the laying of various floor coverings. In their newly equipped workshop based on Avenida Coronel Gorrin, number 64, in Tamaimo, Santiago del Teide, wood cutting can also be carried out on request.

The aim is to deliver good craftsmanship and to inspire the customer. For more information and to contact Holzbau Element SL, call 642 088 361. n

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EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION FOR ISLAND CONNECTIONS READERS

Join us on a trip to El Hierro

El Hierro is known for the cultivation of pineapples which are grown on volcanic stone

The smallest hotel in the world is worth a good photo

On February 20 we're going to El Hierro!

Everyone knows where the island is, but only a few have visited it. This is why Diga Sports offers readers the opportunity to explore the smallest island in the Tenerife province.

We will meet at 7.15am at the Naviera Armas counter at the Los Cristianos port. Travellers also have the opportunity to take advantage of a transfer from Puerto de Santiago to Los Cristianos. At the moment, we do not offer transfers from the North. The Diga Sports staff will welcome the readers and hand over their boarding passes. The ferry leaves at 7.45am.

Dolphins and harbour porpoises can often be observed on the crossing, and those who want to enjoy the fresh morning breeze on the upper deck should not forget to dress warmly. You'll need a

good windproof jacket as the cool wind can be quite chilling. The crossing takes about two hours and the ferry will arrive at Estaca in the harbour below Valverde, the capital of El Hierro. The bus will make its way up the zig-zagging roads to Valverde, stopping at Mirador Isora. The spectacular panorama of the steep cliffs and the valley of La Playa will more than compensate the effort of the ascent.

We will continue over the ridge towards the north to the next viewpoint at Jinama, where we will stop again. The short drive to Jinama is a tough one, the road runs over the ridge and this is one of the few places in the world where a traveller can see the coast and the sea on both sides. From El Golfo we will continue to the local economic centre La Frontera and Las Puntas. The smallest hotel in the world is said to be located here. There is a

dispute about that, but it only has four rooms. At the restaurant La Pasada, a tempting buffet to satisfy the palate and different tapas will be served. On the way back to the harbour, we will invite you to take a break at another vantage point, the Mirador de La Peña.

Here everyone who fancies a sweet treat can try a Quesadilla in the bakery. This dessert made of cream cheese and many other secret ingredients is one of the island's most successful exports. In the harbour the Naviera Armas ferry will be waiting for us, and it will be time to bid farewell to El Hierro and head back to Tenerife. At 8pm we will dock in Los Cristianos, richer for the experience of having visited this small but beautiful island.

The excursion price of €99 includes the ferry crossing, the bus journey, food and beverages. A bus transfer is available from Puerto de Santiago to the

port and back in the evening.

Reservations can be made by phone, internet or directly at the Digasports office at Park Club Europe in Playa de las Américas. Customers can pay by credit card at Digasports or in cash at the ferry counter.

For a firm reservation, your full name and NIE number must be given.

If you can't make it on February 20, the tour will be repeated on March 6. n Organiser: Dama Sports Tax-Number: B76637651 Tel: 677 48 99 46 E-mail: info.digasports@ gmail.com Price per person: €99 Reservations: info.digasports@gmail.com or by phone: 677 48 99 46 Payment by credit card at Diga Sports or cash before departure

CANARY ISLANDS

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New speed limits

Photo: freeimages.com

BEST SLOW DOWN

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

On country roads, you need to take your foot off the gas

This is the motto under which new speed limits for Spanish secondary roads were adopted at the end of December last year by the Government in cooperation with the Traffic Directorate.

A conversion period was granted for the length of one month to allow for the new speed limit signs to be put in place. The new regulations have been in force since January 29, affecting around 10,000 kilometres of roads throughout the country. The aim is to reduce the accident rate and, above all, the number of deaths on the roads, which

TOP JOBS The ATOS high-technology corporation is currently establishing headquarters in Gran Canaria that will employ around 200 people, the first 80 of which are already in place.

A further 120 employees are to be added by summer.

Most of those taken on so far already lived in Gran Canaria, but for island president Anto-

fell in 2018 for the first time after two years of growth. The new regulations are intended to further strengthen this downward trend and thus protect the lives of road users.

The speed limit on motorways remains unchanged at 120 kilometres per hour, but secondary country roads are particularly affected. This is where there are the most black spots and where the most accidents occur, so the speed limit for both cars and motorcycles on these roads has been reduced from 100 kilometres per hour to 90. If the speed limit is exceeded, there

will be heavy penalties. Two points will be deducted from your driving licence and a fine of €350 imposed for speeds of 111 kilometres per hour or more. The only exceptions are roads whose lanes are separated from each other, where acceleration to 100 kilometres per hour continues to be permitted.

On unpaved roads, the general speed limit is now 30 kilometres per hour. This speed limit also applies to single lane roads in urban areas where the main objective is to reduce accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.

On conventional roads, vans and trucks are allowed to travel at a maximum speed of 80 kilometres per hour and on motorways at a maximum speed of 90 kilometres per hour. The same applies to buses, school buses and mobile homes, which are allowed to accelerate to 100 kilometres per hour on motorways. On secondary roads, trucks may temporarily exceed the speed limit by 20 kilometres per hour in exceptional cases when overtaking.

By the way, the Traffic Directorate is also urgently warning against crazy 'car games' that have led to serious accidents worldwide in the past. They include a challenge taken from a film and currently circulating on Netflix. In the movie, actress Sandra Bullock is forced to drive blindfolded. More and more young drivers worldwide are copying this scene and there have already been numerous accidents with serious injuries caused. There are also the so-called 'My Feelings' and the 'Baby Shark' challenges. In both cases the drivers get out of the car while driving, dance and then jump back in again.

These too have caused serious accidents. n

NO MORE UNWANTED PUPPIES OR KITTENS

Sterilisation campaign

Around 7,000 animals were abandoned in Gran Canaria last year, a figure that is untenable and intolerable according to the Island Council, the veterinary college and the animal protection organisations.

Therefore, they have now taken steps to counteract unwanted offspring and the abandonment of pets.

In two campaigns, around Fighting animal abandonment €150,000 will be invested together in subsidising micro-chipping and sterilisation in collaboration with participating veterinary practices. An informative booklet will also be produced for the public.

Thanks to this lower price, pet owners all over the island will be able to take advantage of the microchip and surgery and benefit from a 40 per cent discount and a free pet passport. Families who have no income will receive both free of charge. Both campaigns, the exact dates of which are yet to be announced, will last for about a month. Environmental Councillor Miguel Ángel Rodríguez wants to counteract the uncontrolled reproduction and the arbitrary abandonment of our four-legged friends. “For me, this is the worst form of cruelty to animals. It’s imperative that we do something to ensure that the number of abandoned pets, which is one of the highest in Europe, is reduced as quickly and noticeably as possible,” he stressed. n

ATOS in Gran Canaria nio Morales, the group's new branch is also an opportunity for Canarians living abroad to return. University graduates in the fields of technology and languages are currently being sought to fill the posts.

ATOS is a group of companies with European, mainly French, capital. It is the largest technology company in Europe and the fourth largest in the world.

The group's main customers are Disney, Microsoft and Siemens. Since the new European data protection regulations mean that customer data may no longer leave Europe, all incidents and customer complaints will be processed in Gran Canaria in future.

The establishment of this large corporation's service centre is

an important signal to other companies of the benefits of creating tax-privileged jobs in a pleasant environment and perfect location for operating across three continents.

Other companies which have taken advantage of the benefits include the Anima Kitchent production company and the Amuse music distribution company. n

Island President Antonio Morales (left) visits the ATOS headquarters, located in the Exhibition Centre

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

9

STUDIO AND LOCATION SHOOTING IN THE CANARIES

Tender issued for Gran Canaria film studio MISTAKEN WALK THROUGH MOGÁN

Angel shark poacher identified

The Especies de Canarias (Species of the Canaries) organisation last week published a case of suspected illegal fishing on social networks and asked for the unknown culprit to be identified, with great results.

A young man had been photographed holding a harpoon and, casually thrown over his shoulder, an angel shark as he strolled through the centre of the tourist village of Mogán in the south of Gran Canaria. The angel shark is considered threatened with extinction and is therefore under strict protection. The species has one of its last places of safety in the Canary Islands, so catching them is strictly forbidden and punished with high fines. “It is unbelievable that something like this is still happening today. It’s a very sad snapshot, especially when you know that the Canaries are the only place where you can still observe this species,” the organisation wrote on its Facebook page. It called on the public to report incidents such as these immediately to the Guardia Civil and, if possible, to provide photographic evidence, as in this case. The fish poacher has Thanks to this mobile phone now been identified and photo, the poacher was identified reported to the police. n and reported

The Canary Islands have long since ceased to be a secret tip for national and international film producers and are now widely appreciated for the diversity of landscapes, the mild climate and the professional working conditions on site.

In the latest addition to the Islands’ film and TV portfolio, the Councillor for Tourism in La Gomera, María Isabel Méndez, announced that a new series for the Netflix channel will be shot in March in Valle Gran Rey and the capital San Sebastián.

In Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, numerous films and series have already been recorded. However, more and more often producers have expressed the wish to be able to work in a studio on the

The central input is the interface that connects the two sets

archipelago. Thus the idea of a film studio in Gran Canaria was born, which will put the Islands at the top of the audiovisual film industry.

The construction project, developed by architect Héctor Portillo Santana and Huca Arquitectura SLP, has been tendered until mid-February.

The contractor is to be commissioned by July at the latest to begin construction, which is expected to take around 14 months. Hence the pioneering project should be completed in the second half of 2020.

The budget is estimated at seven million euros. Earth-

PURCHASING BEHAVIOUR IN THE CANARIES

Retail sales trends

works on the 21,000 square metre plot, directly adjacent to the Las Palmas Exhibition Centre, have already been completed. The complex will have two independent 16 metre high studios, covering 1,800 and 1,200 square metres respectively. Both sets will be quasi twins, each with its own warehouse, sanitary facilities, recreation room and control room in the basement. On the ground floor there will be private and communal cloakrooms, hairdressing and make-up facilities, a clothing store and a small dining area. The upper floor will house the offices,

editing and filming rooms, a meeting room and a versatile area. An area of around 4,000 square metres is being prepared for outdoor filming. "The façade will attempt to reflect the essence of cinema, and the architecture will be inspired by rolls of film. The building will be a closed space, as is necessary for filming, but there will be fake windows which can represent all sorts of images when illuminated. The rooms will be equipped with sound insulation technology and air conditioning, while the power supply will be guaranteed by a photovoltaic system. n

The shopping behaviour of Canarians last year showed an average upward trend of 0.4 per cent in retail sales compared to the previous year.

Curiously, only the month of December was an exception, when retail sales fell by 1.1 per cent compared to 2017, according to data recently published by the National

Statistics Institute (INE).

Perhaps everyone was waiting for the January sales to begin?

Nevertheless, the upward trend can also be seen in other parts of the country. The largest increases in retail sales last year were in Aragón (2.3 per cent), Navarre and La Rioja (1.8 per cent each). n

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Canary Center, Local 7, 11+12, Urb. La Paz Puerto de la Cruz

Canary Center, Local 9, Urb. La Paz Puerto de la Cruz

CANARY ISLANDS

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

ALBERTO BERNABÉ, ISLAND COUNCILLOR FOR TOURISM

Tenerife: a “unique medical and wellness destination" Consolidating its position amongst the top national and international destinations, Tenerife closed 2018 with a total of 5.8 million visitors over the year.

The figures continue a sequence of consecutive rises, making the Councillor for Tourism and vice-president of the

average yearly temperature of 22°C, exceptional scenic diversity, a four- and five-star hotel sector that is among the best and most modern in Europe, plus multiple spa and wellness centres in which to recuperate and relax, among other attractions. In addition,

structure as well as leading professionals with national and international experience.

These make the island the perfect place for combining a trip away with medical or surgical treatment under the maximum guarantees and medical certifications that are

out forgetting the important economic advantages it offers compared to other countries, of course.

What is the main objective of the campaign?

To make the island more widely known as a medical and

Alberto Bernabé, Vice-president of the Tenerife Island Council, is proud of the latest achievements

“

Tenerife Island Council, Alberto Bernabé, “very proud of the effort we have made to remain a leading destination”.

In addition, he also declared that “with the excellent number of visitors in 2018, we are in a very good position to assume the challenges that await us in 2019”.

We were lucky enough to speak to the esteemed councillor, and we discovered that promoting medical tourism is one of the main goals for the coming year.

The island’s tourism organisation, Turismo de Tenerife, has been responsible this year for ensuring maximum visibility for medical tourism via Tenerife Health Destination. Why do you recommend Tenerife?

Tenerife is a holiday resort with unique conditions: an

”

The objective is for destinations to be continuously updated so that tourists opt for Tenerife

Tenerife has a modern and comprehensive health infra-

required from every territory of the European Union. With-

health destination, equally to tourists who already visit us, potential travellers from various countries of origin, and foreign residents now living in Tenerife. To achieve this, we have designed a promotion campaign for the Tenerife Health Destination website, located within webtenerife.com, which will take place throughout this year via search engine optimisation, for instance, and online marketing.

What specialities are highlighted?

There are two different categories that are internationally rec-

ognised, depending on services offered: wellness and medical.

With regard to the latter, Tenerife has a wide range of private health services available, amongst which plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine stand out, as well as clinics specialising in dental treat-

ments, all types of top-level surgical skills, and fertility clinics. If referring to wellness and spa tourism, the availability is very broad and we can see how services that combine medical treatments with wellness are increasing as they become more and more popular.

Where can someone interested in treatment find information?

They can visit the webtenerife.com/turismomedico/ webpage. This is translated into six different languages and gives full details for relevant companies, so they can be contacted directly for enquiries regarding their complete treatment lists.

What projects stand out in the field of health this coming year?

As a leading holiday destination, the island’s tourism offer is in constant evolution as it responds to the needs of travellers, which of course extends to the field of health tourism. Tenerife Health Destination associates are constantly updating and improving their offer, and expanding the range of services available as they adapt to these new demands. This year, several will be offering new services, which will be announced in the coming months, and all will continue pushing the island forward in the markets of medical tourism and wellbeing.

What goal does Tenerife Tourism have for 2019?

With the beginning of each new year, which we always face with the greatest enthusiasm, our goal is to maintain the quality standards that characterise our efforts thanks to the joint endeavour between the public and private sectors. The objective is for our destination to be in continuous renovation so that tourists opt for Tenerife, since competition is ever greater. That visitors’ expectations are not only fulfilled, but surpassed – be they holidaymakers come here, for example, to enjoy nature, or someone who seeks to benefit from medical treatments or wellness opportunities. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

ATTEMPTED MURDER

Lanzarote man runs over adversary twice

11

TRAGIC END TO A SEARCH OPERATION

Missing fisherman drowned

A brutal assassination attempt took place at the end of January in Lanzarote.

A 24-year-old man with a previous criminal record was at odds with another man in the Arrecife exhibition centre car park. The other man was dealt a blow in the course of the dispute. The suspect then apparently went to his car, returned with it and deliberately ran over his foe, not once, but twice, returning a few minutes later to once again mow down the injured man. And that was not all. Thankfully, eyewitnesses called for help, though when the police arrived they found the victim lying in a pool of blood. The injured man was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

The suspect now has to answer for attempted murder. His vehicle was seized as evidence. n

This tug boat’s crew discovered the body

The windscreen cracked due to the impact of the man’s body

On the last Friday in January a 35-year-old man went fishing in his own small boat.

The Canarian currently lived in London, but still had an apartment in Ofra, a district of Santa Cruz. His boat, the Urbana, was moored in the port

of San Andrés and he often used it when he was in Tenerife. He set off fishing. When he failed to return, the emergency services were notified that he was missing. Police and maritime rescue crews searched for the missing man

on the water and from the air.

Sadly, on Sunday the body of the man was discovered some distance from the coast of Tenerife and was recovered by the crew of the tugboat Punta Salinas. Once on land it was confirmed that this was indeed

the body of the missing man.

The deceased was involved in another tragic accident two years ago. He had gone on a squid hunt with a friend, who fell off the boat and drowned.

It almost seems as if history has repeated itself. n

12

CANARY ISLANDS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106 Javier Laso interprets Beethoven under the title of Hero

CLASSICAL CONCERTS IN PUERTO DE LA CRUZ

Sunday matinees at Sala Timanfaya Samuel Delgado is a genius with the guitar. He will perform again at the Sunday Matinee

Ismael Perrera is a virtuoso at the piano

The Sunday matinees at Sala Timanfaya in Puerto de La Cruz are very popular in the winter season. They make a perfect prelude to a successful Sunday and afterwards a stop for lunch in the northern metropolis and a Sunday walk are recommended.

On February 10, the pianist Ismael Perrera will perform his repertoire Impromptus & Impressions, consisting of his own pieces and works by

Franz Schubert. A week later, on February 17, guitarist Samuel Delgado will perform pieces

by Richard Bach, Domenico Scarlatti, Rodrigo González and Heitor Villa-Lobos. Javier Llopis and Astrid Bustos on clarinet, accompanied by Maria Eugenia Jaubert on piano, will perform the last Sunday midday concert of the month. All concerts take place in the Sala Timanfaya and begin at 12pm.

A concert as part of the Bee-

thoven & Masters programme,

by Javier Laso, will take place on February 13 at 5pm in the Sala Timanfaya. It has the motto 'The Hero' and includes pieces by Ludwig van Beethoven and Franz Liszt. Tickets for all concerts cost €15 and are available by e-mail to mail@reyesbartlet.com, calling 696 227 636, CIT de Puerto de La Cruz, Complementos Cloe, Librería Masilva or at the box office. n

WHERE ARE THE BEST FLOWER DISPLAYS?

Blooming towns competition Gardens and green spaces in the community are places where people of all generations meet, play, celebrate and relax.

They beautify the landscape, improve the air quality, create ambience and quality of life and, last but not least, are a tourist attraction.

The aim of the new competition called Villas en Flor (towns in bloom), which was launched by the Association of Plant Producers and Exporters in the Canary Islands (Asocan) and is supported by the Island Council, is to make local politicians and residents more aware of these values. La Orotava was the first town to register. From now until April, the initiators will encourage towns to participate and explain the conditions. From May to August, a jury will visit the participating towns and give its opinion. In September the winning town will be announced and in the last trimester of the year the award ceremony will take place. Not only will the sense of beautiful

The town of La Orotava was the first to spontaneously register for participation

blooming areas in the towns be judged, but private individuals will also be motivated to decorate their windows and balconies and thus contribute to making their own place prettier. They too can win a prize.

The highest mark is 'five flowers of honour'. The first one is earned by each town just by participating, because this proves that local politicians value their public green spaces. Similar competitions were success-

fully held on the Spanish Peninsula in Aragón, Valencia and Galicia. In the Canary Islands, the Asocan association will initially start in Tenerife, but the initiative will then spread to all the Islands. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

NEW SPORTS LAW

Equality in sport

El Hierro Island President Belén Allende recently congratulated the Canary Islands Parliament on the adoption of the new Sports Law, as she stressed the high level of involvement in sports on the island.

The latest law is a comprehensive move towards the future and has been developed over the last four years thanks to the participation of numerous clubs, sports and nonprofit associations, the two Canary Island universities and relevant political authorities. It takes into account, among other aspects, small islands such as El Hierro where major competitions are held. “We have succeeded in ensuring that El Hierro’s sport has reached a high standing at regional and national level and have also hosted competitions that are now an international reference.

These events are also an excellent way to promote the island’s sporting opportunities as a tourist attraction,” explained Allende. As an example of this, she referred to the meridian marathon, the swimming competition in the Mar de Las Calmas, the international paragliding meeting, the Open Fotosub for biodiversity, hiking days and the Magma Bike Marathon. Despite all the progress that has already been made, she is calling for further measures to ensure that athletes on the smallest main island have the same opportunities to practice their sport as on the bigger ones, by, among other approaches, maintaining and expanding the sporting infrastructure. In particular, traditional Canarian sports are in great demand among the inhabitants and a centre for Canarian martial arts, Lucha Canaria, is therefore called for.

The new law assumes a pioneering role in Spain in other respects as well. It makes a stand for inclusion and means there must be no gender discrimination in the practice of sport. “We are prepared to use sport more than ever to bring values such as respect, cooperation and life, equality, health, teamwork and competitiveness closer to Canarian society,” added the president. n

International sports competitions bring El Hierro into the focus of enthusiasts

THIEF CAUGHT

Break-in at driving school

Guardia Civil officers based in La Victoria, in collaboration with their colleagues from Tacoronte, were able to arrest an unusual duo of thieves recently, a 20-year-old man and his minor accomplice.

They are suspected of breaking into a driving school in La Victoria and stealing three mopeds and three motorcycles, as well as ten helmets, protective clothing, vests and gloves. In total, they are said to have got away with stolen goods worth €15,000. During the course of the investigation, the suspects were identified and five of the vehicles recovered. The two young men were arrested and the juvenile prosecutor’s office informed. n

RECOGNITION OF WAR VICTIMS

29 Canarians killed in concentration camp

La Palma Island Council has recently issued an institutional statement on the public recognition of the Canarians killed in the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp.

The Island Council pays tribute to the 29 Canarians who died in the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camps Entrance to the Mauthausen concentration camp, photograph taken in 1942/43

ometres away from the main camp, where granite and rock crystal were mined, were established. In addition, prisoners from all over Europe produced the fuselages of the Messerschmitt aircraft, various war materials and synthetic fuels under the worst imaginable conditions.

Of the estimated 6,000 Spaniards killed in the Austrian concentration camp, 29 came from the Canary Islands. In its statement, the Island Council referred to a study by the history and ancient Greek teacher José Melquíades at the IES Luis Cobiella Cuevas in Santa Cruz de La Palma. Based on the data known so far, nine came from Gran Canaria, eight each from La Palma and Tenerife, two from Lanzarote, one from La Gomera and there was another for whom it’s not known from which island he came.

Most of the Canarians had fled to France after the collapse of the Second Republic. There they were captured

by Germans during the Nazi occupation. According to the Melquíades investigation, the German Nazis asked the Spanish fascist regime whether those arrested were Spanish citizens. Franco is said to have replied that they were not recognised as Spaniards and that the Germans could do whatever they wanted with them. Even the French ruler Philippe Pétain did not want to know anything about the Canarians and sent them as stateless slaves to the German concentration camps. Others who were killed came from the Fayfes concentration camp in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which had arisen as a result of the coup d'état before Franco's

13

equipment and there was a gas chamber with an attached crematorium. For the historian, there is no name for the atrocities and cruelty that reigned in this concentration camp. The people had to work to exhaustion, were starved, beaten, often tortured to death. In the end they froze to death or were finally killed in the gas chambers. In addition, medical experiments were carried out at Gusen I by the 'doctors' SS Helmut Vetter and Herbert F. Heim. Heim was known for preparing human heads as paperweights and 'Doctor' Eduard Krebsbach was called 'Doctor Injection'. His special way of killing people was to inject gasoline directly into the heart. In February 1945, 420 Jewish children, aged between

dictatorship, to receive people who opposed Franco's assumption of power. Franco had the 'dirty business' of organising their removal by the Germans.

A place of cruelty Mauthausen is a small town on the Danube about 20 kilometres from Linz in Austria. Hitler occupied the area on March 13, 1938 and annexed it to the Third Reich. The German and Austrian Nazis built the Mauthausen concentration camp there at the beginning of the Second World War, It had a main camp and 45 sub-camps with various activities. Thus, in 1940 Mauthausen-Gusen and Gusen I, and the Langestein camp, about four kil-

Today the former concentration camp is a museum and memorial

The Polish prisoners were the first to come to Gusen I as slaves, followed by the Spanish, then the Russians, numerous Jews from all over Europe and prisoners called 'sub-humans' by Nazis, such as homosexuals and gypsies.

Gusen I also produced war

three and seven years old, were murdered in this way.

Because of all these abominations, the La Palma Council adopted a public recognition of the 29 Canarians, who were also cruelly killed in these Mauthausen-Gusen camps and should not be forgotten. n

CANARY ISLANDS

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

IN CONVERSATION WITH JUTTA DORNHEGE D. ÁLVAREZ

The Kindly Light project: help for mothers and children and do not have sufficient income to deal with their everyday needs, a situation that can affect anyone at anytime.

For instance, says D. Álvarez: "I know a teacher without a permanent job who became pregnant and was abandoned by her partner when he found out. She had no family left and was just as desperate as any youngster. Thanks to

the help of the Signo de Vida (Signs of Life) association in Santa Cruz, she was supported in the first year after the birth. After that, a childcare place was found for her offspring and today she stands on her own two feet again".

Women from all levels of society can be affected, anyone who unintentionally becomes pregnant and finds all her life

By Sabine Virgin Rotary member Jutta Dornhege D. Álvarez became aware of the plight of many mothers with children in Canarian society through conversations and acquaintances, and the more she heard the more she became convinced of the need for urgent action.

According to the Funcas Foundation, for example, the poverty rate in the Canary Islands is the

highest in the country. Mothers who are suddenly alone during pregnancy or with a small child have much less social help in the Canary Islands than women in the same situation on the Spanish Peninsula. As a result, they are often destitute and on the brink of exhaustion, and their children also get stuck in the cycle of poverty and on the fringes of society.

"We must not only see how great the hardship is in devel-

oping countries, but also look carefully around our own front door. The Rotary Club is helping local communities through various projects in many countries, as well as here on the island where we’ve already been involved in several areas, such as the founding of a children's orchestra and a day centre with afternoon care in the La Vera district.

Together with my colleagues from the Club, whose presi-

dent is María Elena Fernández Escobar, I have developed the Kindly Light project (or Luz Amable in Spanish), for which we are now looking for start-up capital. We would need about €16,000 to begin the project, which would enable us to support seven mothers and children for about a year”.

The project is aimed specifically at mothers, regardless of their age, who are left alone by their partner and family

Photo: Freeimages.com

Jutta Dornhege D. Álvarez is the founder of the Kindly Light project

Kindly Light wants to help women who want to have their baby but are lacking resources

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839 In conjunction with the Signo de Vida association, founded by a priest called Juan Carlos Gonzalez, the Rotary Club also wants to cooperate within the framework of the Kindly Light project. "It's not just about giving money; it's about providing real help. We have a paediatrician, gynaecologist, lawyer, and paediatric psychologist in our ranks who have agreed to help the women free of charge," the committed Rotarian continues.

The project is aimed at all mothers who need temporary support due to pregnancy and who are willing to get their lives back under control. No distinction is made by origin or education, only on the basis of need. However, minors who fall under the Youth Protection Act, migrants without valid papers, women with addiction problems or in situations of domestic violence are excluded. All these cases require further assistance provided by other bodies. Women who take advantage of social aid but do not want to work themselves are also rejected by the project. The principle is: temporary help for self-help in order to intervene in an impermanent emergency situation.

CANARY ISLANDS

15

cils is essential for the work and local communities have already signalled their interest and willingness. The organisation can help, for example, through the rapid provision of social housing. The support should also be such that the women are free to make their own decisions. For example, women are advised about the possibilities they have, including abortion. Each situation’s advantages and disadvantages are outlined and no woman is condemned if they decide to have an abortion, rather, simply promised help in the event they decide to keep the child. In the case of minors or if there is a family, a solution can hopefully be found with the relatives. If this is impossible, the association helps.

been found in Los Realejos and the first donations have been received. Volunteers for the organisation of donations and their allocation are already on board. "We collect clothes, accessories, cots, prams, toys, which can be new or used, for the mothers of the project. So we gladly accept clothes and objects of daily life from mothers whose children have outgrown their clothes and would like to make them available to others. From shops we accept donations in kind in the form of diapers, baby food, bottles, dummies and the like. Education is also very important to us. Both for the women whom we want to integrate into the world of work and for the children, who should go to kindergarten and school as soon as appropriate in order to receive the best possible support,” summed up Jutta Dornhege D. Álvarez.

If you would like to contact the project, please feel free to send an email to dalvarezj@telefon ica.net at any time. n

Baby bank practical help An additional project connected with Kindly Light is the baby bank which provides for basic needs. A restaurant drop off point has already

Cooperation with Signo de Vida The Signo de Vida association is currently active in Santa Cruz. The Kindly Light project has been set up specifically for expectant mothers in La Orotava, Los Realejos and Puerto de La Cruz to date. As well as the current support they are providing, Rotary Club members are also hoping to later take over the organisation of more of the practicalities.

Among other aspects, a social worker can help women to get the best possible support from government agencies. Good coordination with town coun-

Women who are abandoned during pregnancy by their partners and families are often left with nothing and do not know what to do The Kindly Light project brings light and a glimmer of hope into the lives of those affected

plans change. "A good example is the story of Thais. She became pregnant at the age of 29, was abandoned by the father and lost her job due to the pregnancy. Her family didn't want to know anything about the single pregnant woman either. However, she was also helped by the Signo de Vida association. An apartment was provided for her and she was supported during the first year of her

Thais is one of the women who, thanks to the help of Signo de Vida, was able to have her son

Anyone who would like to support the initiative is welcome to make a donation via the Rotary club. The amount will benefit the project 100 per cent and the donation is tax-deductible.

Donation account: ES87 0049 0356 56 2010612892 Important - Make out to: Proyecto Kindly Light

seppl’s Bäckerei German Bakery son's life. She has now been working daily for two years, earning only €600 a month, but is taking care of herself

and her child again. And Thais is not a figure in the statistics, but a woman I know," reports D. Álvarez.

Opening hours

Monday-Friday: 9am-4pm Saturday: 9am-2pm Sunday: 9am-1pm

Your German master baker in the usual quality.

From now on also open on Sundays.

Calle Pizarro 6 · Guargacho (South Tenerife) · Tel. 922 786 110

CANARY ISLANDS

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

PILOT PROJECT I WITH CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT

Garbage crates on the beach

GENEVA GRAND THEATRE BALLET

Ballet Evening in Gran Canaria

On February 8 and 9, classical ballet fans will have the opportunity to experience the renowned Geneva Grand Theatre Ballet live at the Teatro Cuyas in Las Palmas.

The company was founded in 1962 and has since collaborated with world-renowned choreographers and soloists. They will be performing the ballet Tristan and Isolde. “To illustrate this epic drama, we have chosen a very simple setting.

A spiral staircase depicts both a ship and a castle. A rope symbolises the union of the lovers and simple wooden boards represent the forest, a wall or a room. The sea is recreated by blue fabrics in motion” explained choreographer Jöelle Bouvier. The performances start at 8.30pm. Tickets are available at a price of €40 from www.teatrocuyas.com. n

The ballet has simple stage design and the great art of dance

PRECAUTIONS IN RADAZUL

Away with the large boulders

A total re-think for everyone especially here at the beach, where everyone can help in the clean-up

As part of the Biosférate project and in collaboration with the Clean Ocean Project whose staff have been working in Fuerteventura for 15 years, the Island and La Oliva Councils are breaking new ground in the direction of sustainability and clean oceans.

La Oliva has the second largest beach in Spain in terms of length. A pilot project has therefore been launched regarding plastics and clean oceans to improve sustainability and protect the environment. Pallets were used to make square garbage contain-

ers, which have been placed on 19 beaches. Swimmers, divers, surfers, walkers and anglers can throw all the garbage that the tide washes up on the beach into these 'playapallets', an initiative that has been well received by the beach users. The campaign is explained to holidaymakers in Spanish and English and everyone is invited to take part in collecting the garbage before the ocean takes it back and carries it away to new shores.

You can report on the website www.playapallet.org when the

pallet containers are full. "We want to further develop the idea of a sustainable and respectful community. We are currently doubling our expenses for cleanliness. We have the second highest number of kilometres of beaches in Spain and to keep these coasts clean we need new formulas with some imagination" says the mayor, Isaí Blanco. Wim Geirnaert, president of the Clean Ocean Project, also encouraged everyone on the beaches to join the initiative, collect everything they can find and put it into the pallet containers. "Some of the

garbage containers are already full, mostly with plastic and fishing nets, and some come from very far away. For example, plastic waste from Singapore has already been discovered there. This shows that we all have to help together," Geirnaert stressed. Visible mountains of rubbish, and things that seem to have come a long way, should help to raise awareness of the littering of our oceans, especially with plastic.

At the same time, the public is called upon to reconsider their behaviour, particularly with those plastics. n

Rocky cliffs from which large rocks can sometimes become loose are part of Tenerife’s landscape, offering fascination and risk at the same time.

In order to minimise this in their area, El Rosario council has arranged for some large Excavator drivers in Tenerife boulders to be cleared away at sometimes need to have ‘nerves Radazul Bajo, very close to the of steel’ Albatros II residential complex. For safety reasons, the footpath between Radazul and Tabaiba and the Radazul beach were closed during the works.

Mayor Escoclátisco Gil and the borough’s architect supervised the removal work on site, which was completed within one day. Only recently at the beginning of January, the road between Icod de los Vinos and El Guincho had to be closed for several days because large boulders had fallen onto the road. Fortunately, nobody was harmed. n

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7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

CANARY ISLANDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

AIRPORT

EXTENSION APPROVED

Mushroom centre for Villa de Mazo The mayor of Villa de Mazo in La Palma, José María Pestana, recently announced that the first phase of construction of the new mycological research and specialist mushroom centre will be completed by the end of December this year.

The Canary Islands Government subsidised this project last year with €500,000. However, due to changes in the contract allocation and the need to move some of the local council offices at the same time, there were delays to the project and the subsidy could not be used. Mayor Pestana requested an extension of the deadline and that has now been granted.

The future mushroom centre was brought into being mainly thanks to the generous legacy of a German lady called Rose Marie Dähncke, who had spent a total of 30 years researching and documenting the island’s mushrooms. In addition, there is a collection of scientific research from the last 70 years. She has left a total of 135 articles about mushrooms and almost 4,000 information records about the species in La Palma. Decades ago she was fascinated by the potential and value of the island’s extraordinary wealth of mushrooms. Thanks to the many different climatic zones and ecosystems, nowhere else in the world can so many different species of mushrooms be found as in La Palma.

On the green island there are an incredible 1,300 different species, of which only 80 are edible.

The future centre will consist of a central building with lecture rooms and a projection room. There will also be an exhibition of the many different species, a restaurant and a stall selling mushroom products. A part of the land will also be dedicated to the cultivation of the delicacies. n

At the future centre, visitors can learn about the wealth of mushrooms to be found on La Palma

Guardia Civil and Customs Officers recently arrested four women, aged between 32 and 38, at the Reina Sofía and Los Rodeos airports in Tenerife on suspicion of drugs running.

Three are Moroccan women who live in Almeria on the Spanish Peninsula. One came from Venezuela and is also registered as resident there.

The first arrests took place on January 20 at the Reina Sofía Airport in the south of Tenerife during a routine check of passengers arriving on a flight from Malaga. The officers noticed three conspicuous women who were behaving nervously. Their initial suspicions appeared to be confirmed during a conversation with the females.

First they searched their luggage and found a baby diaper in a suitcase, in which 27 balls of hashish were hidden.

Since the police suspected they could also be transporting drugs in their bodies, they ordered an X-ray examination. In fact, the Moroccan women had swallowed 396 balls of hashish pollen. They had apparently attempted to bring a total of 4,300 grams of hashish to the island.

On the same day, at the Los Rodeos northern airport another drug related arrest took place after a flight from Caracas landed. The cabin

17

Four female drug couriers arrested

A total of 4.3 kilograms of hashish was being brought to the island by three women from the Spanish Peninsula

The suspect had left this cocaine condom in the on-board toilet

crew had notified the police after they found a plastic bag in a bathroom which, in their opinion, possibly contained an intoxicant. The officers found a condom filled with 100 grams of cocaine inside the bag. In consultation with the crew, the woman who was deemed to own the narcotic was identified among the passengers and arrested. All four women have now appeared in court. n

Finally Tenerife, finally the Canary Islands.

Gianni Conti is already active in 45 countries - from Portugal to Russia - throughout all the world: France, Spain, Germany, Denmark, Latvia, Japan, Canada, United States, South Africa, even Vietnam and China.

Today Gianni Conti is also active in Adeje/Las Americas with an all-round personal store and a collection of over 350 bag varieties: from classic to vintage and fashion, with the latest trend of colors.

Professional briefcases for businessmen and businesswomen, keychains, wallets and much more. In the Gianni Conti store you don’t just buy a product, you also breathe an all Italian atmosphere: the coffee machine is always ready to make you an espresso, laced with Varnelli or Meletti, distinctive of Marche, our region. For our non driving customers we will be glad to offer a glass of excellent Prosecco.

Confident of the fact that we’ve whetted your curiosity, we’re guessing that you’re already starting your car or calling a cab... to get to us.

Our girls will be there, ready and more welcoming than ever to receive you, always with a smile on their faces.

All that remains for me to do is to wish you a good visit.

Elio Contigiani CEO GIANNI CONTI STORES IN TENERIFE Adeje Avenida Barranco de Las Torres - Los Olivos (Exit 81 Autopista del Sur TF1 - Next to Lidl Supermarket) Costa Adeje Centro Comercial The Duke Shops Centro Comercial Siam Mall Puerto de La Cruz Calle de la Hoya, 41

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EASY PARKING, FREE SHUTTLE BUS, FREE COFFEE, FREE PROSECCO

18

FASHION

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Two trends in one piece - snake print and transparency from George at Asda

Classic from Wallis, shirt-blouse dress in orange-gold

Snake pattern and a golden clasp for this stylish Dorothy Perkins bag

Eve’s seduction SLYTHERIN IS IN!

There's no question about it, animal prints are already classics and are popular every season.

So far, this has been especially true for leopard, zebra and other prints. This summer, however, another animal star enters the fashion stage - the snake. Snake prints are now in high demand on dresses, skirts and tops as well as on accessories. The colour palette is just as varied, ranging from black and white to bright colours. n

A colourful eye-catcher from New Look with a snake design

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

FASHION

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

19

Littlewoods offer a classic with a new look - the trench coat

This pleated skirt from M&Co also follows the snake pattern trend

Snake-print is particularly effective on these Littlewoods flowing fabrics

Marks & Spencer present these snake print flat sandals

Snake print ankle boots from Glamourous go perfectly with jeans

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FOOD

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Brunelli’s is known for its selected meat quality, prepared in the Southbend oven

Romance for two at Brunelli’s

the exterior to preserve its flavour and juicy texture, combined with exclusive starters and side dishes, desserts and a select wine list have made Brunelli's a benchmark in Ten-

PROMOTION | VALENTINE'S DAY

Romantic dinner at Brunelli's

Hearty meat enjoyment with the Valentine’s Day menu

At Brunelli’s Restaurant, recognised as the best meat restaurant in Tenerife and run along the lines of a tra-

erife that not only inspires meat lovers.

And to top the absolute romantic factor on this day is the ele-

ditional American steakhouse, the team has prepared a special menu for Valentine’s Day.

The best meat on the island, cooked at 800 degrees in the Southbend oven (unique in the Canaries), which caramelises

gant ambience, with a panoramic view of one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island over the Atlantic Ocean. Simply enchanting!

The Valentine's Day menu consists of a Kir Royal to welcome you. Afterwards tomato soup with a swirled heart in cream will be served as a starter, then a liver pâté with caramelised figs, followed by a refreshing strawberry sorbet with grappa to refresh the palate before the main course. The culmination will be a succulent Ávila beef fillet steak matured for 28 days with Pont-Neuf potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The perfect finish to your meal will be a passion fruit heart. Half a bottle of Palestra Blanco Verdejo and half a bottle of

Brunelli's Gran Reserva will be served with your meal. The menu costs €62 per person, including IGIC. This makes a real gourmet treat for Valentine's Day in a romantic ambience and the perfect setting to celebrate being in love.

A visit to the restaurant can also be perfectly combined with a visit to Loro Parque, which is right across the road.

The district of Punta Brava, with its authentic, simple fishing environment, also has a special charm.

The restaurant is open daily from 1pm to 3.30pm and from 7pm to 11pm. Table reservations can be made by calling 922 062 600. Information is also available at www. brunellis.com. n

XVII MADRID FUSIÓN 2019

Culinary pleasure as a holiday experience Madrid Fusión is a gastronomic event where everything revolves around food and culinary enjoyment, and where the chefs of the highest category prove their skills.

It also showcases the latest trends and creative ideas.

The organisers confirmed that around 12,000 visitors, 1,600 congress participants and over 600 media representatives were present to find out about the latest in gastronomy this year. The Gran Canaria stand focused on the many local products that seasonally enrich the local cuisine. More and more holidaymakers not only want sunshine and the beach, but also good food and new taste experiences. In addition to the fruits and vegetables that grow in

Gran Canaria, the visitors were able to see the island's own honey varieties, oils, and the best wines and cheeses that were awarded prizes last year.

Flor Cortijo de Caideros cheese was named the Canary Islands' best cheese in 2018. The same goes for the hard cheese Cortijo de Galeote.

is so famous because it is a very old and rare type of potato that is small, sometimes misshapen, but very delicate in

cheese, avocados, bananas and the typical gofio. "We are very satisfied with our performance here. Not only the potatoes,

taste. These are potatoes that are simply different. In addition to potatoes, Tenerife also presented its wine and honey.

Those present could also taste

but also all the other products we brought with us were very well received by the public," commented Jesús Morales, Island Councillor for Agricul-

The Tenerife delegation was satisfied with their positive reception Gran Canaria highlighted the many seasonal fruits and vegetables that grow on the island

The Tenerife delegation also had two stands at the fair and brought its best chefs along.

This year they focused on the lowly potato. The 'papa canaria'

ture, Livestock and Fisheries, during the event.

In general, the motto this year was: Cambian las reglas (the rules are changing).

What is meant by this is to think and cook in a new way and with an open mind. There are many trends towards seasonal and ecological products that are creatively processed.

The ingredients that everyone knows are now being imaginatively used.

On the fringes of the fair, renowned chef Ferrán Adriá who said in 2011 that he would close his famous restaurant El Bulli, has returned and announced that it will be reopened this year in Cala Montjui on the Costa Brava.

Good news for all fans of the great master. n

PROMOTION Calle Bencomo 42 Puerto de La Cruz

& 922 062 600

© Google

brunellis.com

Every gourmet’s dream becomes a reality at Brunelli‘s, a steakhouse that is in the perfect location to inspire the palate. Selected meat of the very best quality, in a fantastic ambience right next to the sea, the culinary pleasure revolves around the Southbend: The only oven of its kind on the Canary Islands, it heats up to 800°C, sealing the juices and flavour inside the meat.

Plus top quality wines from the island and Spain, and the restaurant’s crowning glory: an uninterrupted view of the Atlantic Ocean.

© GoogleMaps

La Guinguette Carretera General Piedra Hincada 42, Guía de Isora Opening hours: Wed - Mon 12:30-16.00 Wed - Sat 19.00-22.00

& 922 857 327 La Guinguette is a French Restaurant where you can enjoy music, dancing, good food and wine. We have created a place where we combine Art, Food and Drink at La Guinguette in the South Tenerife. The food is based on traditional French cuisine, combined with fresh country-specific and local products. Musicians of all genres provide inspirational shows, theme nights and also perform during our Sunday BBQ or Wednesday Lunch. Our terrace with shady trees and breathtaking view invites you to relax. Have an unforgettable time with us.

©Google

Bodegón Las Vistas Calle Bencomo 58 Santa Úrsula Open: Daily, except Tuesday 12 to 11 pm

& 822 108 923 ide urant in & outs Heated Resta

Tasteful, canarian kitchen, a rustic and authentic ambience and a breathtaking panoramic view characterise the Bodegón Las Vistas in Santa Úrsula. Also the very hospitable servicestaff and the favorable prices. This place welcomes everyone, from local Canarian or foreign residents who don‘t want to cook, to holidaymakers who find themselves in an extraordinary place in the middle of typical island life. A place you will never forget.

© Google

© GoogleMaps

FRENCH-FUSION CUISINE RESTAURANT & TERRACE

Style

d RestauranteLa-Guinguette

American

Opening hours: Daily from 1pm – 3.30pm and 6.30pm – 11pm

AMERICAN KITCHEN STEAKHOUSE

Brunelli’s Steakhouse

21

CANARIAN KITCHEN RESTAURANT

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

d bodegonlasvistas

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

AIRLINE ANGST

Problems abound at Ryanair, but the number of passengers keeps on growing.

The flamboyant and sometimes polemic head of Ryanair Michael O’Leary has been put to one side after losses of almost €20 million were declared for the third quarter of 2018. However, despite strikes, delays, last-minute cancellations, technical problems and a long list of negative press, the number of passengers continues to grow as travellers keep on looking at the bottom line financially.

The latest major complaint which is being handled by the Spanish Consumers’ organisation Facua concerns a flight from Prague to Madrid which was cancelled due to a snowstorm. Not the airline’s fault, they can’t control the weather, but they could have controlled keeping the 200 passengers in the airplane for over six hours before announcing the cancellation.

According to a statement from the consumers' association, those affected argue that the company, moreover, at no time took over the extra costs of accommodation, meals and travel whilst they had to stay in Prague more than a day until

BUSINESS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Ryanair rumbled

TOURISM STATISTICS

Photo: Patrick Nijhuis freeimages.com

22

Not the airline’s finest hour

they could fly back in another plane. The association underlined that, in case of cancellations of flights, passengers have the right to be provided by the airline free of charge, hotel accommodation, sufficient food and drink and transportation between the airport and the place of accommodation. The international regulation also includes a series of automatic compensations in case of cancellations ranging from €250 to €3,500.

Passengers were apparently reduced to asking for help on social media during their six hour sojourn. Facua has assured that users can claim other types of compensation for damages, both moral and patrimonial, that they could have suffered due to the cancellation of the flight or not having been able to get off the plane during the six hours.

The airline has issued a statement in which it says that "snow at Prague airport and

the slowness of the thawing services at the airport caused several delays" and that "unfortunately this flight to Madrid had to be cancelled, as the delays caused the crew to be out of shift time”.

In addition to apologising, the company added that "all customers have received accommodation” which doesn’t gel with what the consumers’ organisation is claiming. The passengers finally got to Madrid the following day. n

Fewer people, more money Last year the Canary Islands received almost half a million fewer foreign tourists than in 2017.

However, despite the lower influx of tourists, the expenditure made by travellers from other countries on their holidays in the Canary Islands grew by almost two per cent.

2018 saw 13.75 million foreign tourists in the Canaries, 462,308 fewer, a decline of 3.3 per cent compared to the historical record experienced by the sector in the Islands in 2017, according to the Statistics of Tourist Movements in Borders in December.

Despite the lower numbers of tourists, travellers from other countries on their holidays in the Canary Islands spent €17,177.93 million here, 334 million more than in 2017, according to data published at the end of January by the National Statistics Institute (INE). The average expenditure per tourist per day in the Islands rose last year by 5.7 per cent, to stand at €146, eight more than the previous year.

In terms of the numbers of visitors, the Canaries was the third most popular destination in Spain last year, with the UK continuing to be the main country of origin of international visitors, representing 36.8 per cent of the total. The British were followed by the Germans, who accounted for 20.3 per cent of the holidaymakers.

In December 2018 the Canaries was the main destination, receiving 1.3 million international visitors - the same number as in December 2017 - a figure that represented 28.8 per cent of all arrivals to Spain in the last month of last year. Just in that period, the total expenditure made by foreign visitors during their holiday stay in the Islands amounted to €1,631 million and recorded an annual growth of 5.9 per cent. n

Photo: xbarurex freeimages.com

UNEMPLOYMENT

Post season unemployment increase

Jobsworth?

Unemployment in the Canary Islands rose by 2,404 people last month and ended with the sad figure of 209,419 registered as looking for work.

In the year-on-year figure, the Canary Islands recorded a fall in unemployment of 6,282 people, which in percentage

terms translated into a reduction of 2.91 per cent. January’s figure represents a growth of 1.16 per cent over last month according to the Ministry of Labour, Migration and Social Security.

In comparison with the year before, 6,282 fewer people are

Fewer people but more cash!

registered as unemployed in the Canaries, a drop of 2.91 per cent. Nationally, the number of unemployed registered in the offices of public employment services (former Inem) rose by 83,464 unemployed in January (+2.6 per cent),

its highest rise in this month since 2014, when unemployment increased by more than 113,000 people. After the seasonal upturn in January, the total volume of unemployed across the country stands at 3,285,76. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

BUSINESS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

23

BLEVINS FRANKS

What are your UK pension options in Spain today?

By Paul Montague, Partner, Blevins Franks

Pensions are often the key to long-term financial security, so take care when deciding what to do here.

Expatriates have the added complication of factoring in the tax rules of two countries, as well as the potential for Brexit to limit the range of opportunities.

‘Defined contribution’ or ‘money purchase’ pensions Since the pension freedoms of 2015, members of defined contribution schemes can usually do the following from age 55: • Take the whole fund as cash – 25 per cent will be tax-free in the UK. • Make cash withdrawals when you want – a quarter is free of UK tax each time.

• Take regular income through ‘flexible drawdown’, leaving the remainder invested.

• Take a secure, regular Here, your employer guaranincome for life through an tees a proportion of your salannuity. ary for the whole of retirement. Whilst you cannot Expatriates have the option to usually withdraw cash, you transfer UK pension funds to can transfer it to a defined an EU-based Qualifying Recog- contribution scheme or nised Overseas Pension Scheme QROPS. Traditionally, this (QROPS) tax-free. QROPS has been considered less benadvantages include the flexibil- eficial than drawing a guaranity to pass pension benefits to teed pension for life. Howchosen heirs, currency flexibil- ever, some providers have ity and protection from future been offering higher than UK taxation. usual transfer values. SensiQROPS benefits and rules vary bly reinvested, a high one-off significantly between providers sum could potentially proand jurisdictions. There is also vide a retirement income that a 25 per cent UK tax charge exceeds the original annual on transfers to QROPS outside payment, but it is crucial to the EEA (European Economic fully understand the conseArea). Many believe the UK quences before giving up lifegovernment may start taxing time benefits.

EU/EEA transfers after Brexit, so if you are considering trans- Taxation ferring, act sooner rather than later to avoid unnecessary taxa- Whilst 25 per cent of cash withtion. Take specialist advice to drawals can be taken tax-free establish if transferring is suit- in the UK, if you are non-UK able for you. resident they are usually taxable in your country of residency.

‘Defined benefit’ or ‘final Spanish residents accessing UK salary’ pensions pensions or QROPS income will attract Spanish general

take account of your needs, objectives, personal circumstances and risk appetite to find the best solution for you and your family. Getting it wrong could have serious and unexpected consequences.

Take care to explore your options now – before Brexit potentially changes the landscape – to establish your best approach for a prosperous retirement in Spain.

Pensions are often the key to long-term financial security, so take care when deciding what to do here income tax. The exception here is UK Government service pensions, which remain taxable in the UK only.

you have a reliable personalised plan to fund your long-term future.

Avoid pension scams by making sure any company you are dealMaking your pensions ing with is regulated with the last UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). And even amongst If you choose to take some or all regulated providers, check for of your benefits as cash, ensure quality. Your adviser should

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; individuals should 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

WHAT’S ON 2018

24

FEBRUARY

GRAN CANARIA DIARY DATES February 8 9am: La Venecia de Gran Canaria Tour, Mogán, Amadores and Mirador de las Dunas, pick-ups from Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, children from €15, adults from €30. www.entrees.es 8.30pm: Tristán e Isolda, ballet, Teatro Cuyas, LPGC, from €20. www.teatrocuyas.com February 9 9am: Historic Gran Canaria Tour, Jardín Canario, Vegueta, Santa Catalina Park, Cuevas de Guayadeque and Agüimes, leave from LPGC, 8/9 hours long, children €19, adults €39. www.entrees.es

February 14

Jack Beng-Thi, renowned multidisciplinary artist from Reunion Island, 31 varied and exciting works, Casa África, LPGC, Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm, free entry. www.casafrica.es

8.30pm: Cabeza (Head), contemporary dance

by Daniel Abreu, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €12. www.entrees.es 9pm: Paco Bethencourt & Friends, jazz, flamenco, hip-hip, electronic, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC, from €14. www.auditorioteatro laspalmasgc.es 10pm: Susan Santos, country and blues, The Paper Club, LPGC, €15. www.entrees.es February 15 - March 10

8.30pm: Fusa Nocta, female trap artist, The Paper Club, LPGC, €10. www.tomaticket.es February 17

Until February 10 FIMC Festival de Música de Canarias (Canary Island Music Festival), classical concerts across all the islands. See www.festivaldecanarias. com for more information.

February 10 12pm: Visitas en Familia (Family Visits), guided museum tours (in Spanish) for adults and children, plus music, theatre and dance spots, El Museo Canario, LPGC, €4, children under 12 go free. www.elmuseocanario.com 12.30pm: Alas (Wings), shadow show, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €8 www.entrees.es

9pm: Angelus Apatrida and Psyque, thrash metal, Aguere Espacio Cultural, La Laguna, €18 / 25. www.tickety.es

9am: La Venecia de Gran Canaria Tour, Mogán, Amadores and Mirador de las Dunas, pick-ups from Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, children from €15, adults from €30. www.entrees.es

8.30pm: Abraham Ramos and Alberto Brazuelo, tribute to José Antonio Ramos, Auditorio Valleseco, Valleseco, €5 www.entrees.es

10pm: Eat to the Beat, rock mini fest, various bands including Finnish group Sonata Arctica, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC, from €20. www. auditorioteatrolaspalmasgc.es

EXHIBITION Until February 24

9am: Historic Gran Canaria Tour, Jardín Canario, Vegueta, Santa Catalina Park, Cuevas de Guayadeque and Agüimes, leave from LPGC, 8/9 hours long, children €19, adults €39. www. entrees.es

9pm: Fito Paez, indie, piano concert, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus de Las Palmas, LPGC, from €33. www.auditorioteatrolaspalmasgc.es

& La Isla Music with invited guests Esther Ovejero and Ni 1 Pelo de Tonto, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, €8. www.arona.org

February 15

February 16

8.30pm: Tristán e Isolda, ballet, Teatro Cuyas, LPGC, from €20. www.teatrocuyas.com

Morales, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC, from €20. www.auditorioteatrolaspalmasgc.es

8.30pm: Pepe Bao, bass player, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €10. www.entrees.es

Las Palmas Carnival. See www.lpcarnaval.com for a full list of events and activities.

8.30pm: El domador de vientos (The tamer of winds), children’s theatre, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €6. www.entrees.es

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

12pm: 2 Payasos (2 Clowns), family theatre, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €8. www.entrees.es 12pm: Visitas en Familia (Family Visits), guided museum tours (in Spanish) for adults and children, plus music, theatre and dance spots, El Museo Canario, LPGC, €4, children under 12 go free. www.elmuseocanario.com 12pm: El Rey Zolito (King Zolito), children’s theatre (in Spanish), Teatro Municipal Juan Ramón Jiménez, Telde, €5. www.entrees.es February 22 8.30pm: Birkins - You Are Not Alone, pop, rock, psychedelic, Teatro Guiniguada, LPGC, €12. www.entrees.es 9.30pm: Forever, renowned Michael Jackson tribute show, endorsed by three of his siblings, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC, from €35. www. auditorioteatrolaspalmasgc.es 10.30pm: Eat to the Beat, rock mini fest, various bands including Los Depedro and Exática, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, LPGC, from €20. www. auditorioteatrolaspalmasgc.es

FEBRUARY

TENERIFE DIARY DATES February 7 6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es 4pm-10pm: Canarias Folk Fest, food and crafts market plus traditional dancing and music, Plaza de La Pescadora, Los Cristianos, free event. www.arona.org 7pm: Charity show to raise money for the Tenerife Ámate breast cancer association, various artists, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, €5, free entry for children under one year old. www.arona.org/ 922 220 564 for tickets February 7 - March 10 Santa Cruz Carnival. See www.carnavaldeten erife.com for a full list of events and activities.

February 8 8pm-11pm: Karaoke, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada. Tel: 922 857 327, Facebook/Restaurante.La.Guinguette 9pm: Rubén Pozo & Lichis, pop rock, Búho Club, La Laguna, €12. www.tomaticket.es 6pm: Hannah de los Tres Países (Hannah from the Three Countries), children’s theatre, Teatro Leal, La Laguna, €5. www.entrees.es

10pm: Tribute to Spanish rock group Extremoduro, Búho Club, La Laguna, €7. www. tomaticket.es February 9 & 10 8am-1.30pm: Farmers’ market, Calle Archajara, s/n, Las Torres, Adeje. www.adeje.es 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, C/ Cooperativa, Valle San Lorenzo. www.arona.org 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, P.I. Las Chafiras, San Miguel (next to the fire station). www. costasanmiguel.com 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. TF16, Km 3.5, Tacoronte. www.mercadillodelagricultor. com 8am-3pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. General TF5, Km 49, La Guancha. www.laguancha.es 8am-4pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. General, Km 7.8, La Esperanza. www.ayuntamientoelrosario.org 9am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Camino Viejo de San Benito s/n, Casa del Llano, Realejo Alto. www.losrealejos.es 9am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza San Pedro, Vilaflor. www.vilaflordechasna.es February 10 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza de la Luz, Los Silos. www.lossilos.es 9am–2pm: Farmers’ market, Av. Villa de Arico, Porís de Abona. www.ayuntamientodearico.com 9am-2pm: Food and crafts market, Plaza de la Libertad, Garachico. www.garachico.es 12pm: Peter Pan, children’s theatre (in Spanish), Centro Cultural de La Villa Candelaria, €6. www.tomaticket.es 1pm-4pm: BBQ and live music, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada. Tel: 922 857 327. Facebook/Restaurante.La.Guinguette

February 9 6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es 3pm: Fiesta de la Cerveza, beer fest, Club Hípico Nueva Atalaya, La Laguna, €15. www. tomaticket.es 5pm: Pinocho (Pinocchio), children’s theatre show (in Spanish), Teatro Cine, Los Realejos, €6. www.tomaticket.es 8.30pm: Gospel Shine Voices 10th Anniversary Show, Teatro El Sauzal, El Sauzal, €10. www.tomaticket.es

February 23

8.30pm: Aruna May, world/electronic fusion, Centro Cultural La Villa, Candelaria, free entry. www.facebook.com/pg/Aruna-May

10.30pm: Eat to the Beat, rock mini fest, various bands including Los Enemigos and Sito

8.30pm: Marley Vive (Marley Lives), tribute to Bob Marley by renowned local reggae band Ruts

7.30pm: Yunke el mago del Hormiguero (Yunke, the magician from the Anthill), family magic show, Teatro Guimerá, Santa Cruz, from €18. www.tomaticket.es

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

WHAT’S ON 2018

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

February 11 9am-2pm: Farm and general market, Plaza del Llano, Alcalá. www.guiadeisora.es February 12 6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es 10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm: Tour plus tasting, Dorada beer factory, Santa Cruz, €10. www. tomaticket.es February 13 8am-1pm: Farmers’ market, Paseo El Bufadero, Playa de San Juan. www.guiadeisora.es 10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm: Tour plus tasting, Dorada beer factory, Santa Cruz, €10. www. tomaticket.es 1pm-7pm: Farmers’ market, P.I. Las Chafiras, San Miguel (next to the fire station). www. costasanmiguel.com 3pm-7pm: Farmers’ market, Calle Archajara, s/n, Las Torres, Adeje. www.adeje.es 5pm: Beethoven and Disciples, pianist Javier Laso plays various Beethoven pieces, Sala Timanfaya, Puerto de La Cruz, €15 on the door or email mail@reyesbartlet.com / call 696.227.636 February 14 6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es 1pm-4pm & 8pm-11pm: St. Valentine special with live music, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada. Tel: 922 857 327. Facebook/ Restaurante.La.Guinguette 4pm-10pm: Canarias Folk Fest, food and crafts market plus traditional dancing and music, Plaza de La Pescadora, Los Cristianos, free event. www.arona.org February 15 9pm: Fusa Nocta, female trap artist, Búho Club, La Laguna, from €10. www.tomaticket.es February 16

9pm: Acoustic tribute to artists from the Madridled music scene, Búho Club, La Laguna, €6. www.tomaticket.es

February 19

February 16 & 17

6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es

8am-1.30pm: Farmers’ market, Calle Archajara, s/n, Las Torres, Adeje. www.adeje.es

10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm: Tour plus tasting, Dorada beer factory, Santa Cruz, €10. www. tomaticket.es

8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, C/ Cooperativa, Valle San Lorenzo. www.arona.org 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, P.I. Las Chafiras, San Miguel (next to the fire station). www. costasanmiguel.com 8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. TF16, Km 3.5, Tacoronte. www.mercadillodelagricultor.com 8am-3pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. General TF5, Km 49, La Guancha. www.laguancha.es 8am-4pm: Farmers’ market, Ctra. General, Km 7.8, La Esperanza. www.ayuntamientoelrosario.org 9am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Camino Viejo de San Benito s/n, Casa del Llano, Realejo Alto. www.losrealejos.es

10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm: Tour plus tasting, Dorada beer factory, Santa Cruz, €10. www. tomaticket.es 1pm-7pm: Farmers’ market, P.I. Las Chafiras, San Miguel (next to the fire station). www. costasanmiguel.com 3pm-7pm: Farmers’ market, Calle Archajara, s/n, Las Torres, Adeje. www.adeje.es

February 17

February 21

8am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza de la Luz, Los Silos. www.lossilos.es

8pm: Pasionari@s, tribute to jazz guitarist Pat Metheny by Santiago Lara, Espacio Cultural CajaCanarias, Santa Cruz, €12. www.tomaticket.es

1pm-4pm: BBQ and live music, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada. Tel: 922 857 327. Facebook/Restaurante.La.Guinguette 7pm: We Love Queen, by Yllana, tribute to the British band Queen, Teatro Guimera, Santa Cruz, from €20. www.tomaticket.es 7.30pm: Tribute to John Williams by the Film Symphony Orchestra, cinema soundtracks, Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, Santa Cruz, from €36.50. www.filmsymphony.es February 18 9am-2pm: Farm and general market, Plaza del Llano, Alcalá. www.guiadeisora.es

9pm: Una noche para ellos (A night for them), fundraising evening of entertainment in aid of the K9 dog refuge (in Italian), Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, €12. www.tomaticket.es February 22 7.30pm-10.30pm: Italian night with live music, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada.

Tel: 922 857 327, Facebook/Restaurante.

La.Guinguette Until April 2019 4pm: The magic town of La Orotava, dramatised walks through the area’s historic centre, in Spanish, English and German, €20 per person including a tasting of local products. Tel: 922 323 041, email: jasterluis@gmail.com, www.laorotava.es

6am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza del Cristo, La Laguna. www.aytolalaguna.es 7pm: We Love Queen, by Yllana, tribute to the British band Queen, Teatro Guimera, Santa Cruz, from €20. www.tomaticket.es 7.30pm: Tribute to John Williams by the Film Symphony Orchestra, cinema soundtracks, Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, Santa Cruz, from €36.50. www.filmsymphony.es 8pm: Arona Opera Cycle, Lianna Haroutounian (Soprano) and José Ramón Martín on piano, varied repertoire, Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos, €10. www.arona.org

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8.30pm: Siempre, en algún lugar (Always, somewhere), Paula Quintana stars in a multidisciplinary theatre and dance show focusing on the harmony between the human body and technology, Teatro El Sauzal, El Sauzal, for the over 7s, from €12. www.tomaticket.es

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Until February 22

8am-1pm: Farmers’ market, Paseo El Bufadero, Playa de San Juan. www.guiadeisora.es

9am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Plaza San Pedro, Vilaflor. www.vilaflordechasna.es

9am-2pm: Food and crafts market, Plaza de la Libertad, Garachico. www.garachico.es

EXHIBITIONS

February 20

7pm-10pm: Live music with Marc Morgan, Restaurante La Guinguette, Piedra Hincada.

Tel: 922 857 327 for reservations. Facebook/ Restaurante.La.Guinguette

9am-2pm: Farmers’ market, Av. Villa de Arico, Porís de Abona. www.ayuntamientodearico.com

25

Homenaje (Tribute), paintings by J. Torres, Sala de Exposiciones El Aljibe, San Miguel de Abona, Monday to Friday, 9am - 12.30pm, free entry. www.sanmigueldeabona.es Until March 10 Cebrián Poldo Cebrián: Dos generaciones (1949-2019), celebrating the life and works of renowned Canarian artist and photographer Poldo Cebrián (La Palma, 1948) and the intimate relationship with equally prominent Spanish photographer Cebrián (Burgos 1919 - Tenerife 1999), land- and seascapes, portraits, commentary pieces and more, TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, Santa Cruz, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm, free entry. www. teatenerife.es

For regular church, charity and recreational events, please see:

26

PETS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

ADOPT, DON’T BUY

Animal charities’ round up K9 A night for our dogs and cats Una Noche Para Ellos (A Night for Them) is an evening of entertainment being organised by Tenerife Surprise and Giovanna Luppi for the sole benefit of K9 Tenerife. This professional evening consists of singing, dancing and a well known Italian comedian Bruce Ketta. Although the entertainment will be conducted in Italian, the event is open to all and is sure to be an enjoyable evening. Please go along and support K9 Tenerife and enjoy the spectacular show on February 21 at 9pm at the Auditorio Infanta Leonor, Los Cristianos. Tickets are only €12.

Tickets can be purchased at www.tomaticket.es, for more information call 626 984 037 or 642 796 388.

Calendar cuties Our 2019 calendar pays homage to the lovely animals adopted from K9 over the years, with 12 adoptees featured on one each of the months and a collage of other ex K9 pets. If you would like to purchase it (for €5) please call 667 638 468.

Ways you can help We always appreciate any help.

You could buy our merchandise (T-shirts, vests, key rings, wristbands and more) at the refuge, you can sponsor one of our wonderful sponsor dogs

via our website, you can donate money either via our website or in cash at the refuge, or food and other items which help us look after our dogs and cats.

Also, you can become a volunteer dog walker by calling

between Las Chafiras and Las Zocas, any day between 10am and 2pm. Alternatively, call us on 667 638 468 or email info@k9tenerife.com.

You will also find stories of our dogs’ antics on our Facebook

ADOPTION

In the pink!

after 6pm). Alternatively, message us on Facebook.

Our shop Find it on San Blas in Golf del Sur (behind Hiperdino), open seven days a week, 10am until 6pm. If you don’t have transport or have large bulky items to donate you can ring Mark on 636 590 557 to arrange collection. Or maybe you would you like to help in the shop?

Acción del Sol

How about adopting one of the many cats that are also looking for a home?

us or simply popping by any day during our opening hours.

Remember to keep an eye on our website or Facebook page (information below) for any fund raising events which you may like to attend. Also, why not come along to our charity shop in Alcalá?

Shop till you drop Please note we are no longer holding car boot sales in Los Gigantes, but you can visit our shop in Alcalá Plaza, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Donations of quality household goods, clothes, books, shoes or other items are very welcome as well. Call 646 561 035 to arrange collection of larger items from all local areas. All proceeds go towards funding the animals’ care and are essential to ensuring our K9 dogs and cats have everything they need to make their time at the refuge as comfortable as possible.

This is just one of the beauties currently at the Acción del Sol refuge

Adoptions We have many beautiful dogs waiting for their forever homes. You can see them on our website at www.k9tenerife.com. Or visit the Refuge on Calle Chimbesque,

page at Diary of a K9 Tenerife Dogwalker or K9 Tenerife.

Also, to see daily photos of the walks that take place at K9, ‘like’ the facebook page Voluntarios del Refugio K9.

Cats Welfare See some of our kittens at Don Perro Vets, Las Chafiras (tel: 922 735 824), and Yaiza Vet, Los Cristianos (922 169 381). As well as kittens, we have several adult cats from 18 months to seven years old. All adults are leukaemia negative, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

All cats go on a week’s trial in your home so you can be sure you’ve made the right decision. If you adopt two kittens together then initial injections, microchip and neutering is free for the second one. Adopt a black kitten or two and both will receive the above treatments free.

We always need cat food, litter, sheets, towels, bedding etc. if you have any spare please.

Contact us at www.cats-welfare-tenerife.com or ring/whatsapp Sharon on 662 524 006 or Sandra on 671 282 773 (for English, Spanish and German,

We’d like to remind you that it’s obligatory to have your dog micro-chipped and registered at your local town hall.

In addition, a single bite from an infected mosquito can give your dog heartworm, which can lead to a very slow and painful death. We can never stress enough the importance of treating your dog to prevent this occurrence. Over 60 per cent of dogs that arrive at the refuge test positive for heartworm. It is a very costly and uncomfortable treatment for the dog but one of utmost importance to prevent pain and suffering.

We are completely full up and reaching crisis point, with over 230 gorgeous dogs of all shapes and sizes looking for loving homes. From Yorkshire terriers to Dalmatians we have every type imaginable ready for adoption. We don’t charge for adoptions but donations are very welcome towards the vast running costs of the refuge.

Every one of the dogs has a clean bill of health and is fully inoculated, micro-chipped, heartworm- and flea-free, has a passport and is sterilised, the last one being compulsory to try to reduce the large numbers of unwanted litters here on Tenerife.

How you can help Besides obvious needs such as food, water and veterinary care, a little attention is all the dogs here want. They love going out for a walk so please do come and take one out if you have time, they really will appreciate it. In addition, we always need items for the animals and refuge, such as products for our clinic and cleaning products and utensils, building materials, dog toys, leads, etc., tinned food for our elderly dogs, puppy milk, and dog jackets for when our dogs

Look at that face, who can resist?

Pinky is one of the latest dogs to make their temporary (hopefully) home at the K9 refuge. She is a medium to large female who is around two years old. She is very energetic, full of life, and very loving. Pinky will make a great companion for her new owners. Could it be you? If you would like to know more, simply call K9 on 667 638 468 or email info@k9tenerife. com. Alternatively, visit the Refuge on Calle Chimbesque, between Las Chafiras and Las Zocas, any day between 10am and 2pm. n

travel by flight to Germany, as well as materials to help with our educational programme (pens, paper, glue, play-doh and crayons). Every donation is greatly appreciated.

We are also desperately looking for people travelling to Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Berlin or Frankfurt who would be prepared to escort a dog. All that’s needed is a little time at the airport: all necessary paperwork and handling of the dogs is done by AccionTier staff.

Please do call us on 664 321 219 between the hours of 8am and 5pm if you can help in any way, or visit us on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons from 2pm to 5pm, and Saturdays 1pm to 4pm.

We’re situated directly under the wind turbines, from exit 52 on the TF1 north bound, just after the El Médano junction. Head for the windmills on the coast and we’re located in the buildings on the right hand side. Alternatively, email us on teneriffa@aktiontier.org or visit our Facebook page at Action tier Acción del Sol. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

PROMOTION

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

Pedro Alegre Alonso Pilates trainer ä Physiotherapist ä

Tel. 699 521 649

©2014 FLN

pedroalegrealonso@hotmail.com

27

28

SPORTS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

ATHLETICS

Transgrancanaria HG 2019 coming soon In just a short time, on February 20, the starting signal will be given for this year's Transgrancanaria HG, which will be celebrated for the 20th consecutive time.

The competitions will take place over four days across some of the most beautiful landscapes of the island, meanwhile demanding a lot

challenge that brings the athlete to his or her physical and mental limits. In addition to victory, five or six points will be awarded for participation in the Montblanc Trail depending on the category.

Mayor Marco Aurelio Pérez and event manager Fernando González are currently working with internationally renowned The Transgrancanaria places the highest demands on athletes

from the participants. Six modalities are offered: the 17-kilometre run for the whole family, the 30-kilometre starter run, a 42-kilometre marathon and an advanced marathon over a distance of 65 kilometres. The two top categories are only for those who are really fit.

These include the Trans GC, which begins in Las Palmas and goes via Teror, Moya and Tejeda to the dunes of Maspalomas. This means that the runners have to conquer 128 kilometres and 7,500 metres of altitude difference. The absolute supreme discipline is the Trans GC 360 degrees with a distance of 265 kilometres and 16,500 metres of altitude to overcome, and all within a prescribed maximum time - a real

runners Luca Papi and Hayden Hawk to check the exact route.

"The dunes of Maspalomas are

Mayor Marco Aurelio Pérez, Luca Papi and Hayden Hawk prepare the course

the beauty of our island as a miniature continent" explained Pérez. World-class runner Hayden Hawk confirms this.

"The island's landscape is beautiful and rich in contrasts: mountains, forests, gorges and dunes that end by the ocean.

There is no doubt that this island is a miniature continent," says Hawk. The runner from Altra-Running is one of the top favourites for the Trans GC. "This year, my goals are to win the Transgrancanaria and the UTMB and collect points for the Ultra Trail World Tour," he says. For the supreme discipline 360 degrees, WAA runner, Italian Luca Papi, is the A race over the island, like crossing a mini continent

kilometres and on February 22 he wants to complete another 128 kilometres for the Trans GC. That would be about 400 kilometres and over 20,000 metres of altitude difference within a few days - a very ambitious goal.

In addition to these two competitive athletes, other international runners will be taking part, such as Cristofer Clemente, Antonio Martínez, Pau Capell and Timothy Olson.

Olson, a runner for Adidas, has already set up his winter training camp in Gran Canaria and will stay in the south of Gran Canaria until March. He only left the island for a few days in January to take part in the Vibram in Hong Kong, which he finished in the top 20. There are some big names, big challenges and big achievements coming up! The Transgrancanaria is an absolutely top race that sports enthusiasts can look forward to. n

SAN ANDRÉS Y SAUCES

New socio-sports centre With a direct grant of €300,000 to the San Andrés y Sauces Council, La Palma Island Council will finance the first phase of the construction of the The new centre is intended as a new social-sports centre reference for the whole island to be created in the valley of El Mequínez, next to the urban crossing of the LP-1 road as it passes through Los Sauces.

This contribution will finance earthworks and the construction of a retaining wall on the land where this infrastructure will be located. The future social-sports space will be configured in such a way that the ground floor of the proposed building will house the general control, maintenance and storage facilities and services, with the possibility of housing other municipal services such as car parks or workshops; the first floor will be used for swimming pools, thermal baths and changing rooms; and the second floor will have a set of sports and leisure rooms and services, complementary to the main thermo-leisure use.

The Island president, Anselmo Pestana, and the vicepresident, José Luis Perestelo, emphasised the financial contribution that the Island Council is making, for which they want it to be a reference social-sports infrastructure not only for San Andrés y Sauces but for the whole north east region of the island. n

Swimming pools, thermal baths and changing rooms will be on the first floor

SURFING LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA a unique nature reserve of almost 404 hectares, which impresses with its beauty and the ecosystems that shape it.

From here we want to show

absolute favourite. He doesn't just want to win this race, he has also set himself a double.

On February 20 he wants to run the 360 degrees with 265

One of the best surfing spots in the world The South American Passport Travel Magazine, which is read all over the American continent, highlighted Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in its January issue as one of the best surfing cities in the world.

The article, entitled Eleven Perfect Cities to Surf, lists

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Donostia, the Gold Coast and Newcastle in Australia, Durban in South Africa, Arica in Chile, Viana do Castelo and Ericeira in Portugal, Montañita in Ecuador, New Plymouth in New Zealand and Santos in Brazil.

In the Gran Canarian capital,

the beaches of El Confital, Las Canteras and El Lloret are listed as some of the best spots in Europe, with a mild climate that makes surfing a pleasure all year round. "There are few places in the world where there are such tube waves, as on this island" the article says. n

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

SPORTS

29

the league, they are clear favourites to return to La Liga whereas CD Tenerife had not managed to break into the top 10, in fact they had spent a few weeks in the dreaded relegation zone. But the new look blanquiazules were going to be no pushovers.

The visitors started brightly and created a few half chances but as the game progressed Tenerife stamped their authority on the midfield with Racic and Milla pulling the strings.

The key moment of the whole match came in the second half when a Borja Lasso header was miraculously saved by the Málaga keeper who showed catlike reflexes. Tenerife attacked with belief, the football being played was such an improvement on recent showings. Málaga cleared one effort off the line late on but the scoreline was not budging. Both teams had contributed to a decent enough game despite the 0-0 result. However for all the nice play and intensity Málaga and Tenerife know that they will need to add the killer touch to their game if they want to succeed this season. n

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

CD TENERIFE

CD Tenerife continue their revival

By Chris Todd The new look blanquiazul team are playing their best football of the season so far.

Two impressive displays against the second division big boys, Málaga and Deportivo de la Coruña, have rejuvinated confidence levels and although it would be a big ask to reach the play-offs this time (Tenerife are currently 11 points behind the running) nothing can be ruled out. The mini-revolution, bringing in five new players, has given the team a massive boost. The new Director of Football, Victor Moreno, has created quite a stir in his first two months in the job with the signings of Serbian Uros Racic and Borja Lasso being the highlights. The twenty year old Serbian midfielder Racic certainly is one for the future, a box to

box midfielder, good in the air with a fierce tackle to boot.

His contribution has freed up time and space for the talented Luis Milla who can now concentrate on creating chances.

Thankfully CD Tenerife managed to hold on to their best players, for now at least. Local lad Jorge Saenz turned down big money offers from Valencia, Fulham and Brentford FC but his loyalty shone through.

He realises just how much his hometown club needs him and that is refreshing to see these days. More than likely however he will leave in the summer but his €3.5 million price tag will boost next season’s budget immensely.

26/01/2019 CD Tenerife 0:0 Málaga Don’t be fooled by the scoreline, this was an intense inter-

Jorge Saenz turned down big money moves to stay with Tenerife

esting game played out in front of 14,485 spectators, the biggest crowd of the season. It was also a historic occasion as Málaga striker Jack Harper became the first ever Scottish player to have played in the Heliodoro Stadium. And the pre-match

atmosphere also had a foreign feel in the streets of the capital as 70 ex-pat Málaga supporters mingled with the 130 strong Armada Sur, the International Fan club of the blanquiazules. Málaga have spent most of the season at the top end of

INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL

Young Chinese players in Puerto Fourteen children aged between 10 and 14 and their coaches trained in the El Peñon football stadium in Puerto de La Cruz for 10 days and also played a friendly match against their hosts.

This event was the first visit of the Chinese CD Tenerife Acad-

emy to the island. On 16 October 2017, CD Tenerife President Miguel Concepción and Roberto Mickel the CEO of the football school signed an agreement between CD Tenerife and the International Football Academy HK (IFAHK) and founded the CD Tenerife Acad-

emy in Shenzhen. In April of last year, work began on the search for and training of young, talented boys and girls between the ages of four and 18. Fair play is just as much a part of the programme as football technique. In September of last year, the CD Tenerife

The Chinese football guests

team organised a taster day in Shenzhen to introduce football to their hosts and offered

German Car Service Februar y

Tenerife

offer

Safety fi rst!

Have th e brake s of y vehicle checked our regular ly!

Tel. 922 790 825

www.lb-motors.es I Email: info@lb-motors.es Calle Arujo 60, 38639 Las Chafiras

- Mechanic - Diagnostics - Paintwork - Tire service - ITV inspection - Long-term parking - Car wrapping - Tuning

activities for all the members of the family. The club wants to expand further in Shenz-

hen and make the CD Tenerife brand known on the huge Asian market. n

30

HOROSCOPES | CLASSIFIEDS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Horoscope for period: February 7 to February 20 Aries 21.03 - 20.04 Ideas flow and you express your thoughts well. You have a greater sense of self-worth, and an optimistic attitude that makes life seem interesting and full of purpose. The New Year is having a positive influence on your wellbeing and energy levels.

Contacts

Taurus 21.04 - 20.05 Not satisfied with the ‘quick fix’, you want to pull the weeds out by the roots. This is a time when you can shed an old skin and gain a new outlook on life. It’s a good point in time for fresh starts both in your career and your love life.

Los Cristianos, Alejandra, Venezuelan, beautiful, blonde, large breasts, great body. Natural French, kisses, positions, sado, golden rain, fetishism, vibrators. Private apartment in the centre of Los Cristianos, or I can do outcalls. Tel: 603 375 934.

Gemini 21.05 - 21.06 During this period, you feel like it’s time to ‘go for the gold’. You are aiming for the jackpot, and you may find yourself walking with a little extra spring and bounce, and whistling zippity-doo-dah!

This is, indeed, a time of opportunity.

Cancer 22.06 - 22.07 You tend to harbour unrealistic hopes, exaggerate the possibilities, and lack a sense of realism. Your need for fulfilment and success is strong, but your follow-through rate isn’t of the best. Great ideas are not enough, you need to buckle down.

Leo 23.07 - 23.08 Finally, clear skies and a relief from the tensions of the last few months. Stress is gone and your health is restored. You can relax and feel more secure now. Creativity can flow again and it’s a good time for new beginnings.

Virgo 24.08 - 23.09 The world is recovering from the retrogrades somewhat and it’s time to move out and re-establish contacts with those who can help you move ahead with your plans. Open your eyes, opportunities are there if you know where to look.

Libra 24.09 - 23.10 The tensions are completely gone and your projects are going ahead full steam. Your health, however, may be a bit low. Get a check-up and pamper yourself. Expect a raise in status that could include more money too.

Scorpio 24.10 - 22.11 Family responsibilities are calling you now. It’s a good time to work on recovering emotional balance and bringing love back into your life. Work is going fine, it’s home that will need your attention for the immediate future.

Los Cristianos, recently arrived in Tenerife, I am a Latin girl, 24 years old, beautiful, I like doing everything, with no rush. I have a private apartment and can do outcalls. Tel: 634 753 927.

Los Cristianos, Meliza, Venezuelan, blonde, large breasts, all services, natural French, positions, kisses, sado. I am in Calle Ramón Pino, behind Avenida Suecia. I do outcalls.

Tel: 602 629 191.

Aquarius 21.01 - 20.02 Be open to new ideas presented to you by people you know who are close. Help will come if you ask for it. This is a good time to make promises, make sure you live up to them as your and their future welfare may depend on it.

Pisces 21.02 - 20.03 You may have settled into a new routine. You’ll find the next full moon on the 19th, the Celts Moon of Ice, being kind to you. You’re ready to let go of all that is no longer useful and nurturing in your life. Be honest with those you love.

Pamela, Afro-Brazilian, Las Chafiras. Massage service available for gentlemen only. Private apartment. HH Franciscano Street, beside the large park, Las Chafiras. Tel: 608 285 035.

Transsexual, Los Cristianos, sex symbol, Leona, Latin, curly hair, 120 cm breasts, active/passive, 21 centimetre penis, natural French to the end, mutual climaxes, all types of parties, dominant, golden Nice little German lady rain. Tel: 632 452 845. with piercings in the best places. Enjoy French Los Cristianos, Luna, and making your (secret) blonde, 140cm natural wishes come true. Erotic breasts, spectacular body, massages, private parI offer all services, private ties, threesomes, bondapartment, outcalls to age, escorts and more. hotels, 24 hours. I speak In a beautiful location, a little English. Opposite Jacuzzi possible. Also the bus station. Tel: 619 at your home/hotel. Tel: (+34) 648 245 425.

168 878.

€60 an hour, Carolina, tall, fair skinned, 90cm breasts, slim, affectionate, fun, all-body massage on a table with oils, no rush, happy ending. Los Cristianos, Calle Monaco, Edificio Marte. For an Los Cristianos, new, appointment, call 602 Latin girl. My services are 461 577. complete, French, positions, kisses, vibrators, mas- Private sensual massages. Private apartment sages with empathetic in the centre of Los Cris- and charming lady from tianos. Tel: 608 103 319. Germany, in a discreet, Los Cristianos, Gaby, brunette, beautiful and sexy.

I am complete, I do everything without limits. I am available 24 hours in my apartment and can do outcalls. Tel: 610 609 086.

Sagittarius 23.11 - 21.12 Communications are better and you may be changing your mind about a favourite project. Focusing on home is important right now and it really is time to make some structural changes. Sudden happenings may catch you off-balance.

Capricorn 22.12 - 20.01 If you want your dreams to come true, it’s time to make them happen. Don’t get distracted and keep focused. Keep a level head and handle problems yourself instead of delegating. That way you’ll come out unscathed.

sophisticated atmosphere.

For women, men and couples. ‘Special’ parties with a whirlpool with a German couple. Tel: (+34) 648 245 425.

VILLA

This luxury Villa in Torviscas Alto with spectacular views of the surrounding areas and out to sea. The property comes completely furnished to a high standard and benefits from a private heated pool. Property offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a garage, which is currently a GYM as there is street parking in front of the property. Built to High Standards. €850,000 IÑAKY AZURZA

m 629 244 958

Decor

· Completely Equipped Kitchen · Fitted Cupboards · Fitted Wardrobes · Fully Furnished in a modern style

Exterior

· Sunny large terraces and artificial grassed gardens

Location

· Prestigious Area · Quiet Location · Residential Location

Views

· Coastal · Mountains · Sea · Town · Bathrooms: 3 · Parking: Ample Parking · Pool: Private and heated · Kitchen: Equipped Kitchen

To advertise your services with us, please call

922 75 06 09

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

ISLAND CONNECTIONS MEDIA GROUP S.L. www.islandconnections.eu

Island Connections Online: www.islandconnections.eu

CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINE NEXT EDITION

CLASSIFIEDS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

Santiago del Teide Lions Club

General Services

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.

Second Hand Store LAS CHAFIRAS

The deadline for edition 839, which is published on 21st February, is 19th Febr.

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.

31

MASONIC MEETINGS Logia Ave Fenix Nº 73 Edificio Simón, Los Cristianos.

New meetings start in October, on the fourth Tuesday All Visitors welcome Contact John Donaldson (Secretary):

(+34) 922 178 091 or ave.fenix73@gmail.com

Mobile welder for hire anywhere on the island Contact Jason:

683 422 304

Everything for your house, holiday home, apartment.

We buy and sell high quality, good condition furniture, household appliances, TVs, jewellery....

Household clearances Free on-site assessment!

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 10.00-17.00h Sat: 10.00-14.00h Calle Tilena, 19 n/r Rachaels Motors & Diverlandia Tel. 922 749 664 Whatsapp 649 574 851 d Las Chafiras Second Hand www.second-hand-tenerife. com

General Services

You are invited to

Sunday 11am and Wednesday TBA

Calle Atbitocazpe, Edif. Tamaide II, L4, Adeje celebratelifetenerife.com Pastor Baz 608 724 369 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

English/Spanish word to word translator Resident for 15 years.

Reasonable price, South & North. Transport available if required.

Contact: 662 539 209 carlabannister@outlook.com 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.

Masonic Lodge - Ave Fenix No.73.

New meetings started in October 2018 on the fourth Tuesday 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 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 Teacher (English and Spanish) and interpreter gives Spanish lessons. I would also like to work as a secretary. Tel: 747 790 001 or email: k.arim555@live.com Are you looking for an opportunity with financial independence and personal fulfillment?

CLASSIFIEDS | PASTIMES

FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Become an Independent Beauty Consultant!!! More Info: 642 601 553

Apartment and Villa for rent in Tenerife south. Tel: (0034) 662 507 191

Body, foot reflexology, Breuss massage, manual lymph drainage. Let yourself be pampered

by Simone’s hands. Economic price. Tel: 611 277 578. www. simonehands.de

Winter letting Puerto de La Cruz Studio apartment, 24 hour concierge, pool, sea views. Minimum three month contract. €500 per month. 669 652 149

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) Professional massage therapy, available at the client’s home/ apartment. Certified and experienced masseur for remedial, deep tissue, Swedish, sports and relaxing massage. Mobile/WhatsApp: (+34) 683 141 129 Individual car excursions on Tenerife and the other islands, travel escorts and assistance, other countries, ship cruises, worldwide, hiking tours (also Pico del Teide), nightlife and snorkelling tours, photo shoots (also under water). Also for handicapped persons. Massages and more. The German team speaks English and Spanish. Tel: +34 664 085 154.

Rental Classifieds

I am looking to rent an apartment, house or finca in the south of Tenerife, long term only. A livein household help arrangement is also possible. I am German, have lived here for 11 years, speak English well and I am a good craftsman (garden, pool, repairs).

Tel: +34 664 085 154.

Apartment for rent, 1 bedroom, fully equipped, near Playa Martiánez, in Puerto de La Cruz, €470 /month + electricity. Tel: Theresa on 606 105 101 Wanted urgently: an apartment to rent in El Médano with 2 bedrooms and a garage. Tel: 676 243 558

Sales

Classifieds 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

www.teneriffa-fincas.net APARTMENT TABAIBA ALTA For sale, only five mins away from the German s cho ol, roughly 102m2, 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 For sale, Bungalow 160m2 Costa Sauzal, situated front row with guaranteed spectacular seaviews, 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

Car needed for long-term rental 676 378 618

Situations

Sudokus (For Crossword and Sudoku solution see pag 38)

32

Vacant / wanted

Come and join our Dynamic Team!

Te l e m a r k e t i n g company on the coast surrounding Marbella / Fuengirola is looking for Brokers /Qualifiers. High revenue. English, German, Dutch and Scandinavian.

Send your CV to: telesalestenerife@ hotmail.com Qualified horse riding instructor (Swedish equestrian federation) available for individual and group classes in CHS Buzanada and La Caldera del Rey (San Eugenio Alto) or privately in the south of Tenerife. All ages and levels are welcomed. Schooling and management of private horses by appointment.

Ulrike Fagerlund has competed successfully to a high level in dressage and show jumping in the Canary Islands and Europe. Swedish/ English/Spanish/German speaking. IGEQ equestrian passport holder. Tel: 660761270, e-mil: ulrika.fagerlund18@ gmail.com

Crossword

Vehicles VOLVO S60

2.4D SUMMUM AUTOM ATIC

Beige leather upholstery, Multifunction leather steering wheel, Navigator, Power-adjustable seats with heating and lumbar adjustment, Rear headrests, Air conditioning, CD player, Integrated telephone, Rear parking sensor, electric windows and retractable mirrors.

Fog lamps, Central locking with remote control. MOT OK! All new tyres, brake pads, suspension arms, discs, battery (2 year guarantee) and starter motor. Gear box and general service undertaken. Very good condition, always kept in a garage. 250,000km, €6,200

629 244 958

Across

Down

1 - young mammal (3) 3 - sight; boy’s name (3) 5 - carnivores (5) 8 - level result (4) 9 - seized (8) 11 - destroyed (10) 13 - pieces (6) 14 - matches (6) 17 - softness (10) 21 - took a firm stand (8) 22 - role model (4) 23 - seabird (5) 24 - pen point (3) 25 - extremity (3)

1 - gave away (5) 2 - drained colour (8) 4 - ten more than eighty (6) 5 - relay device (5) 6 - yearn for (4) 7 - tempts (7) 10 - leave out (4) 12 - window sash (8) 13 - uprising (7) 15 - remark (4) 16 - first year doctor (6) 18 - ski run (5) 19 - raid (5) 20 - lies (anag) (4)

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

ISLAND CONNECTIONS 839

PROMOTION

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

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Homes and properties for sale in the Canaries

All photos: Wikimedia Commons

7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

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7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

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PROPERTY GUIDE

lity a u q n a m r e G p o t n i e f i r e n e g T n n i i t t s a e e u h q Special infrared e on re mad

www.infra-deco.es · infra-deco@hotmail.com North TF: Bar Los Amigos · Calle Aceviño 12 · La Paz · Puerto de la Cruz Wed + Fri 15.30h - 18.30h · Tel. 626 16 60 46

South TF: Plaza (Camino) Toronjil 4 · Las Rosas · Las Galletas Tue + Thu 11h - 15h · Tel. 609 96 24 23 + 922 099 214

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7.2.2019 – 20.2.2019

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MERCABAÑO

PROPERTY GUIDE

EL PATIO GARDEN FURNITURE

CERÁMICA BAÑOS Y COMPLEMENTOS

ALSO AVAILABLE FURNITURE FOR BARS & RESTAURANTS

Everything you need in quality ceramic tiles & bathroom suites Av. 7 Islas Canarias nº 94 · 38693 San Miguel, Las Chafiras Polígono Llano del Camello (Chafiras area, next to Intersport) Open 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday · Saturday 9am – 2pm Tel. 922 191 461 · d Mercabaño

SITUATED DIRECTLY BEHIND THE BINGO IN LAS CHAFIRAS C/ Argentina, 7. Las Chafiras Industrial Estate (San Miguel de Abona)

Tel: +34 922 736 203 · www.patiosur.com

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE NEWS 106

Invitation Are you searching for your dream home? This stunning property may be what you are looking for. You are welcome to join our

OPEN HOUSE Balcón de Los Gigantes · Calle La Hondura 22 Local B10 38683 Puerto Santiago 0034 922 867 019 · http://cmc.century21.es

To view Villa of 749m2 / 540m2 build

Calle Las Arenas, nº 3 · Puerto de Santiago CP 38683 Santiago del Teide

15th FEBRUARY 2019 · 16.00 – 19.00h

Please confirm your assistance by calling Tel. +34 922 867 019

€1,270,000 REFURBISHED ELEGANT APARTMENT WITH SEA VIEW IN FIRST LINE Ref. 0098-00058

APARTMENT WITH SEA VIEWS IN CENTRAL Ref. 0098-00009 LOCATION

1 Room 1 Bathroom 77m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process REFURBISHED Sea Frontline Apartment

1 Room 1 Bathroom 72m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Investment Apartment

€229,000

€179,000

ONE OF A KIND FIRST LINE APARTMENT COMPLETELY RENOVATED Ref. 0098-00057

“WANDERLAND” SPECTACULAR PROPERTY WITH STUNNING SUNSETS Ref. 0098-00036

1 Room 1 Bathroom 53m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Apartment COMPLETELY RENOVATED

2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 1 Half Bathroom 34m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Acantilados de Los Gigantes Energy certificate: In Process 2,006 m² Bungalow. Fabulous views of the sea and the mountains

€229,000

€850,000

APARTMENT WITH WONDERFUL SEA VIEWS IN FIRST LINE Ref. 0098-00018

TOWNHOUSE WITH SEA VIEWS IN THE HEART OF PUERTO SANTIAGO Ref. 0098-00052

1 Room 1 Bathroom 55m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Sea View Apartment

5 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 90m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Located in the well known fishing village of Puerto Santiago

€224,000

€410,000

FOR SALE A DUPLEX IN FIRST LINE - PUERTO SANTIAGO / LOS GIGANTES Ref. 0098-00013

COASTAL APARTMENT WITH SEA VIEW IN LOS GIGANTES Ref. 0098-00016

1 Room 1 Bathroom 67m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Duplex First Line. Lower Floor: 37.89m² - Upper Floor: 28.80m²

1 Room 1 Bathroom 57m2 of area Tenerife, Santiago del Teide, Puerto de Santiago Energy certificate: In Process Coastal Apartment

€205,000

€159,000