AprilMay2015 FREE!
WHY WAS SHE JUST LEFT TO SINK?
Just as we were going to press this month, reports started coming in about a ship having caught fire in the port of Las Palmas, filling the capital with smoke. Multiple fire crews were called to tackle the blaze both from the quayside and from boats in port. The emergency services were unable to get it under control.
At some point, someone made the decision that the fires on the Russian Fishing trawler, Oleg Naydenov, could not be put out safely, and that her fully laden fuel tanks posed a threat to other vessels and so ordered the ship out to sea. She was towed first east, toward the southern tip of Fuerteventura, and then when the
fires had been extinguised, she was towed south until she sank 2 days later just 15 nautical miles off the point of Maspalomas. Despite repeated assurances that she posed no threat to the marine environment, the stricken vessel started to leak some of her 1,400 tonnes of fuel, diesel and lubricants in to the sea.
Ministers seemed satisfied that the slick would be simply blown away from the islands, but as blobs of oil pollution started to come ashore everyone wants to know why, once the fire was out, she was left to sink and not towed back to safe port, where she could have been dealt with properly.
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S unshine
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Accidents happen. It is how we deal with them that defines us. Ordinary Canarians, the people of Spain, foreign residents and the world’s press, along with a multitude of environmental activists and organisations are all pretty confused as to why the order was given to take the ship away from land and away from where any consequences could most easily be controlled. Some hard questions will be asked in the coming weeks and months.
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Your Allianz Agent Patricia Ba Arguineguín CC Ancora 97 Tel. 685 287744 928 735763 patyba.allianz@hotmail.com Allianz Paty Ba
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€16 MILLION SPORTS MARINA FOR ARGUINEGUÍN
It was announced at the beginning of April that a local entrepreneur is to spend more than €16million to develop a sports marina in Arguineguín on the south coast of Gran Canaria.
90 for sports fishing facilities, along with other improvements in catering, commercial infrastructure and for the town’s own fishermen.
sports marina in Arguineguín, three other companies also competed: Real Estate Dismare S.L.U., Marina Arguineguin and Marine Atlantic Arguineguin, whose proposals all lost out to Puerto Deportivo With plans to start the construction Arguineguin S.L., whose submission won The Board of Directors of Puertos Caas early as 2016 the project could be 129 of the 146 points possible. Over the narios, a public entity which includes the completed within 2 years, although, as regional government, island councils (Ca- explained by the director of the project, coming month public scrutiny of the projbildos), municipalities (Ayuntamientos) everything is subject to the date on which ect is invited and any objections that may and employers’ organizations managing the Ministry of public works and Environ- arise in accordance with the provisions the independant port areas of the archi- ment approves the environmental impact and regulations of the law on ports can be submitted for consideration. pelago, last month agreed to provisional- statement. ly approve a proposal for a sports marina The plan is to create a 6,000 M2 fishing To go with the new port facilities a new in the Puerto de Arguineguín, which was dock with capacity for 40 boats, adjacent shopping area has been included in the examined by a panel convened for the to the current fishing area, but separated proposals as well as leisure facilities and a purpose and approved by the Advisory from the Marina by a concrete pier. Fish- private car park. Board. ing activity in the port is primarily un2,000 m2 for shops, terraces and resThe €16.6 million project, presented by the company Puerto Deportivo Arguineguín SL, now goes on to a new phase of public consultation for a month before being finally adopted. The proposal chosen includes a total of 334 new berths,
dertaken and controlled by the cofradía de pescadores (Fishermen’s Fraternity), which has 44 members.
taurants will be located along the jetty where berths will enable anyone on a boat to dock temporarily to enjoy a lunch During the call for tenders to grant the 30 or a party. A petrol station has also been year-period award for the right to build a included to facilitate the supply of fuel to vessels.
Ristorante Don Dario, Authentic Italian Family Restaurant Plaza Negra, Calle Juan Juanez, 17/A, Arguineguín +34 928151041
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The Perfect Fusíon of Great Taste and Natural Pazzazz!
Restaurateur and chef David Gibson followed his dreams opening Fusíon Restaurant and Lounge-bar, in the sleepy southern Gran Canaria fishing town of Arguineguín, on June 11th 2007.
service and clearly the most delicious cocktail menu on the island, in a hidden colorful little gem of a setting, just a hop, skip and a jump from the ever popular Yumbo Centre, on the main street down to the beach.
Through a mixture of hard work, great service and some of the most amazing Southeast Asian inspired cuisine, Fusíon quickly became a central meeting point, and a hub of activity, for foreign residents and visitors alike serving extraordinary food at extraordinarily ordinary prices.
Consequently, so as to be able to stride confidently forward, David has come to the difficult decision to sell his lease on the buzzing little scene Fusíon has created in Arguineguín so that he can concentrate fully on his new venture, which has already been meeting with some real success. “It wasn’t an easy decision but for me and the future of my business it’s the right thing to do.” says David, who is gagging to create a lovely outdoor space for Fusíon Playa del Inglés.
David’s talent and easy charm coupled with the wily pizzazz of his managers and staff proved to be a winning combo, in a much loved tourist area where previously only the outstandingly fresh fish available had been the highlight of the Whomsoever manages to take over his Arguineguín hotspot, town. will do so with a capacity crowd and a need to step up to the top quality example Fusíon and its staff have set over the last Within a few short years Fusíon became, and remains, a favourite hangout for its large and vibrant community of local 8 years. The passion and attention to detail with which the business was developed will be a hard act to follow, but the clientele and visitors who return year after year to this high community there will show their gratitude to anyone who end dining experience, encompassing the laid back vibrance of a beachfront cocktail bar with the sensational fresh flavours cares enough to do it right, right there on the Arguineguín Sea borne out of a passion for great food. It didn’t take Fusíon long front. to become the best ranked eatery in the area. Arguineguín is culturally much richer for the experience of having nurtured Fusíon’s early days, and many more residents Clearly the most popular haunt in town, David’s recent announcement of a permanent move to much larger premises of that town will now have a clear reason to visit the new premises a few short km around the coast. As for Playa del in nearby Playa del Inglés is both a symptom of Fusíon’s Inglés, the arrival of this outstanding eatery, and its visionary success and a natural progression which will allow them to host can only bode great things for the standard of cuisine reach much larger groups of quality-hungry travellers and available in one of the most popular resort towns in all of grateful residents on this small sub-tropical paradise. Spain. In March 2014 David opened his second premises, on the site of the first ever oriental restaurant in the south. With much We wholeheartedly recommend you pop along and try the more space and a wider clientele he has for the last year been famous Fusíon 2-for-1 deal and if you have any questions, or wowing a fresh dining and nightlife scene, once again bringing simply to make a reservation, give them a call on the number together his eclectic styles of cuisine, an outstanding focus on opposite.
WHO CAN I VOTE FOR IN THE LOCAL ELECTIONS?
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On March 31st 2015 the local elections were officially convened and over the next few weeks we will learn more about the parties putting themselves forward for government and their aspiring candidates. Several parties have already made public their intention to run in the next elections on May 24th.
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Nueva Canaria (New Canaria) is a party created by Román Rodriguez, the former president of the Canary Islands (2005). It arose from a separation of some members of Coalición Canarias who disagreed with the policies that led the group and they decided to create their own party with nationalist and progressive ideologies.
Izquierda Unida (The United Left) was founded as a political and social movement in 1986 and We have put together a little information to give you an was originally founded as an electoral coalition overview of some of the parties and help you to make your of seven parties, but currently the Communist decision as to who to vote for here in The Canary Islands. Party of Spain (PCE) is the only integrated member of this Coalición Canaria CC (Canarian Coalition) has ruled coalition at national level. Their aim to gradually transform the capitalist system into a democratic socialist system, based on the islands since the 1995 regional elections often sharing government with other political forces. It the principles of justice, equality, solidarity, respect for nature was a result of the merger of five individual Canarian parties in and organised as a social and democratic state. 1993, they are nationalist and progressive and base their policies on the differentiation of The Canary Islands regarding Ciudadanos / C’s (Citizens) arose from the Catalan the Spanish State. party Ciutadans de Catalunya in 2006 and with the recent problems in Spain regarding the two main Partido Popular PP (Popular Party) is one of the parties, have gained a large following throughout the oldest parties in Spanish democracy. Founded by Manuel Fraga in 1976 as the Alianza Popular country. Their president is Albert Rivera and they are center(Popular Alliance), and changing it’s name to Partido left, a party that offers a mix of liberalism and social democracy Popular in 1989. They define themselves as center-right and in its platform. C’s, is one of the parties that has had intense Christian but also have many party members and backbenchers media coverage in recent months and one of two that are that are further right. The PP won their first general election in having much more success in the polls and therefore one of the 1996 with José María Aznar and has since been taking turns in new parties aspiring to break the long standing bipartisanship government with their main opposition the Partido Socialista of PP-PSOE. Obrero Español (PSOE). They have been caught up in many Podemos (We Can), the latest party that has entered scandals regarding corruption such as the Bárcenas affair, the fray, created in 2014 by Pablo Iglesias, is the main resulting in their treasurer being imprisoned. They have also party opposed to the existing two-party system. faced opposition to laws banning abortion, amendments to the Interestingly, Pablo was named after the 19th Century intellectual property law (Ley De Propiedad Intelectual) and founder of Spanish Socialism. Ambiguously not declaring as to laws about bullfighting. whether the party it is right or left since winning by surprise Partido Socialista Obrero Español PSOE five seats in the last European elections, it has been the victim (Socialist Workers Party) was founded of attacks by the two large parties, however these attacks have clandestinely in 1879 by Pablo Iglesias not hindered its growth and it has positioned itself as the (not to be confused with Pablo Iglesias, second political force in polls of intention to vote in most founder of Podemos). The party is defined as labor and leftist, communities. Fiercely anti-corruption and anti-austerity, however since they came to power have been tending Podemos, with it’s leaders coming from political academia, has increasingly towards neoliberal policies. They came to power attracted the support of an abundance of disenfranchised for the first time in 1982 with Felipe González and have shared youth, academics, the unemployed, and citizens affected by power with the PP since then, leading to the current situation the crisis and continual austerity. of bipartisanship. They too have also been caught up in many Paula Bolaños & Daniel Dixon April 2015 corruption scandals of late.
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Davinia Arbelo is an impassioned supporter of the newest and fastest growing political movement in Spain. So much has she been inspired, by the actions and the rhetoric of Podemos, and its figurehead Pablo Iglesias, that she decided to try to gather others around her from her local area to start the process of creating a local Podemos group, known as a circle, for the southern Gran Canaria municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. Having herself previously studied political science she says that the first thing she remembered learning, in the very first year “We, as people, don’t know anything about politics for a reason. It’s because the people that are in charge, that are ‘in power’, or how ever you want to say it, they don’t want people getting involved in politics” She believes strongly that those who have control, take and directly influence all other social structures and organisations, primarily, it appears, to ensure their own survival, and to continue being in control. When it comes to political involvement she says “A government can make it stronger, or they can make it weaker” suggesting that civil society and the organisations that aim to really serve their fellow citizens are so very dependant on the municipal and regional councils from whom they might gain funding, that they are simply afraid to speak out, for fear of losing what little they have to work with. It’s an idea that has easily taken hold across Spain, grown from the seed of the 15M movement, groups sympathetic to Podemos have sprung up across the country, refusing to be
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labelled red or blue, gathering support from a broad spectrum of citizens trying really hard to bring about real change on a local level. Invigourated by the idea that this is their time. Buoyed by the support they have received, she and her group decided to try and send an independent candidate for mayor to the upcoming local elections, based on their love for their community and many of the ideals pushed forward by Podemos. They want to add to the debate, and even the odds. With only a month to prepare, she and her team have, through hard work and commitment managed to collect more than the 1500 signatures necessary to validate her as a candidate. San Bartolomé También Puede (San Bartolomé Can Too) is the name of their group and they stand by a single call to action “Change is here and now!” “All the great things humans have done throughout history were previously labeled impossible by others.” said Davinia on hearing the news that they had been successful reaching out for the first time. “A million thanks to all the neighbors who have with their own signatures, and their efforts collecting over 1,700 more signatures, supported the establishment of a group of voters, San Bartolome También Puede, to stand in the local elections of 2015 in San Bartolomé de Tirajana!” Definitely, Congratulations San Bartolomé Can Too
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Springtime Swansong Kay Owen has been, along with her amazing husband Paul, the most loyal of our supporters over the last 8 years, faithfully contributing to this publication every month with insight fortitude and regular messages of hope to the thousands who, through these pages, enjoy her lively spirit and unstoppable energy. Alas she has finally managed to persuade us to accept her resignation, after a year or more of trying politely to leave, and even having moved to another island and pretending that she can’t hear the phone! It is with deep gratitude and no end of sadness that we must accept that the world needs more of Kay Owen and like any good mentor, she has deemed the time right for us to stand on our own feet, to put into practice the many things she has taught us. We have decided to award Kay the dubious honour and lofty title of Life Editor. It is with the child-like glee of Christmas mornings that we will look forward to publishing more of her inspirational jottings, as and whenever she sends them from between her many adventures. Ed the Ed - sobbing at his desk “Please do not forget to write!” I just read an article in the Times Magazine where a regular columnist was bewailing the fact that mice had destroyed her old hand written features and articles, making nests of her best vellum thus irrevocably damaging years of happy memories and much of her early forays into journalism. Her vivid description of mouse poo and ‘Eau de rodent urine papiermache’ left little to the imagination! I felt sad...all that hard work to say nothing of the accompanying nostalgia erased by a few thoughtless rodents. It made this old technophobe happy to have made it into the computer age - my own humble ramblings, with the exception of the few which took themselves off into cyberspace, stored on lap top and back-up hard drive. Eight glorious years have passed since I first took to ‘penning’ this page in our illustrious paper here on the island. As I am now back in the UK and happily settled in my wonderful Welsh homeland the time has come to say my fond farewells to all you dear readers and faithful followers of this page. It has been a blessing to write for The Canary News and I certainly shall miss it. I send my sincere appreciation to Ed the Ed – a very special person; a man full of good humour, kindness and integrity. It has been a joy and privilege to work with you Eddie. Thank you - especially for being big hearted enough to print the stuff I have occasionally penned to which you have sometimes been radically opposed. I love you! Today, as I look into my garden bathed in glorious April sunshine, I see life in abundance. Daffodils, pussy willows, snowdrops and catkins; while in the field beyond new born lambs are skipping, and love birds are singing their hearts out as they nest- build in our hedge. Springtime is here...a new season.
My own new season begins with fond memories of so many lovely friends and supporters in Gran Canaria. I would need the whole paper to mention everyone by name, but the following, among others who have been outstanding in their support of the Charity work which has occupied much of my waking time on the island, however, do stand out. Cynthia Workman (Las Palmas) for igniting my desire to make a difference to the poor and disadvantaged wherever and whenever. Elsa MacTaggart who freely gave of her considerable musical talent, David Gibson (Fusion) for allowing me to fundraise in his beautiful restaurant on many occasions: my friend Libby and the MAD team who got up at 4am on Sunday mornings to ensure a ‘good spot’ for our home and abroad charity bookstall at Faro Dos market . And of course a massive thanks to you our readers for always supporting our resource raising events. Pink parties, open house days, concerts, cycling marathons, car boot sales, etc; What did your never failing generosity buy over the years? Shoes for life - bare foot kids project; rubbish tip children’s rescue (Cambodia); school building programmes ( Las Palmas Ladies Luncheon/Jo Charles Foundation) ; (Slave trafficking Life Rescue Mission) local food banks ,and much more. Together we raised over €10,000 towards the fight against poverty and injustice and we became all the richer for it. Many grateful hearts appreciate you. So before I finish up with more ‘Farewells’ than Nellie Melba I will conclude my own’ Swansong’ with my favourite MAD legend first printed by TCN in 2010 in “A letter from Suzie”. (Translated)
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“Dear Readers , You do not know me, My name is Suzie and today I am sharing my story in which lots of you feature. This letter is my way of saying “Thank you” to those of you who met my need in my saddest hour. One morning, as I awoke from a fitful sleep, my stomach knotted as the hopelessness of my situation hit me. My own darling husband was no longer here…only a cold empty space where his warm body and his love used to be. Loneliness and longing enveloped me as I lay on a hardwood floor in a mildewed loft which I and my 3 dear children share with a flock of noisy dirty pigeons! Tears of anguish racked my body as I hugged my sorrow-soaked ‘pillow’ . Just two years ago I had a loving husband with a steady job .We were blessed with 3 adorable children and were gloriously happy .Our children, sponsored by Josephine Charles Foundation, were doing really well in school . We did not wish to depend on relief aid .We had always determined that we would educate our children so that they would never be caught in the poverty trap. Suddenly Peter got sick and was no longer able to provide for us. We became penniless after spending our precious life-savings on hospitals and medication, all to no avail - my husband and best friend died in my arms. He was 34 years old. Grief stricken, I moved my dear little family out of my home village into the city - where I found work as a seamstress for 2-3 euro a day ,working 7 days a week. I have developed painful arthritis in my neck What I earn sometimes does not even cover the rent .
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Jo Charles shares my plight with compassionate hearts in GRAN CANARIA .My woeful story was only just hot off the press in The Canary News, and suddenly there appeared big-hearted benefactors who come to my rescue. 3 days later, shaking with excitement, I was whisked off to shop for a brand new modern sewing machine. I pinched myself to make sure I was not dreaming!
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Your gift has totally changed our lives. My earnings mean i can afford medication for my little boy’s chest infection, and I A VOLUNTEER FOOD DISTRIBUTION POINT FOR THE NEEDY OF MOGÁN am currently receiving therapy for my neck problem. Thanks to your indescribable generosity I can now independently provide for my family.
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You have helped restore my dignity and turned my tears of sadness into rivers of joy .I send you much love from a grateful heart,” Suzie. Kay ends:- Sending blessings - grateful to you all and to The Canary News for a treasure trove of marvellous memories, I bid you “Adieu”. Kay Owen April 2015 Ps. Gracious as ever my editor has offered me a guest writer spot In case I have an uncontrollable urge to share a gem or two in the future. You can’t keep an old dog down! Thanks Ed.
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Any amount is welcome!
If you wish to make a donation earmarked for a special need (dental costs for a child, nappies, rent, eggs, potatoes, baby food, a specific family, transportation, etc.), please state it when making your deposit or transfer. Better still, why not pop along and see what they do in person, they love to receive help from visitors They are deeply grateful for your support! Asociación de Vecinos de Las Lomas de Arguineguín Banca Sabadell: IBAN ES50 0081-1394-11-0001028108 & SWIFT BSABESBB
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DAY TRIP TO...
Triana Main Street CC 2.0 by-sa Matti Mattila
I R T
28˚ Culture Editor - Daniel Dixon The Canary News, Views & Sunshine Telde - Las Palmas & Gran Canaria North 28degrees@TheCanaryNews.com It’s surprising how many people live in the south of Gran pedestrianised shopping zone. If you walk up the side Canaria but never venture further north than the airport. streets, you will find numerous small boutiques, curiosity shops, gift shops, shops selling specialist beers, wines, Once people visit Las Palmas, they usually find many things that they’ve been missing out on and discover oils and delicatessens selling delicious cured meats and a totally different Gran Canaria. An example of this is cheese. If your partner doesn’t want to join you on your high street shopping, if you’re bored of the cookie cut- shopping adventure, you can always plonk them on a ter shopping centres, head to the Triana district. It’s a nice terrace to watch the world go by, cold beer in hand. shoppers paradise, high street brands like H&M, Zara and Most of the eateries have a menu of the day, 3 courses Marks and Spencers sit alongside boutiques, quaint cafés and a drink for around 10€. A Pintxo bar called Taberna and wine bars. Arena was highly recommended by the locals for its large Getting to Triana is pretty simple, drive up the GC1 or selection of inventive pintxos and delicious cold beer. See take the number 1 bus directly to San Telmo station. The our interview with the owner below. bus is a great option because it takes away the stress of parking and allows you to partake in a few cheeky drinks. I hope that you enjoy a trip to Triana soon, Joaquin has given us a special offer for readers of The Canary News, Once you’ve arrived in San Telmo park you will see signs Views & Sunshine. directing you to the shopping district, all signs are in English and Spanish. Link to bus timetable Head that way and you will arrive in Calle Triana, a
http://www.globalsu.net/lineas/linea1.pdf
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Profile: Joaquín Pujol,
What is your specialty?
Age: 26
Taberna Arena offers our clients a wide variety of pintxos and tapas. We combine interesting ingredients to achieve great flavours. We also stock one of the best brands of Spanish beer.
Job: Owner / Manager, Taberna Arena, Calle Arena, Triana Hobbies: Sports but especially crossfit. Spending my free time with my friends. What made you decide to open a restaurant at such a young age? I started my working life in the military and some years ago decided to leave uniformed services. Last year, I had the opportunity to delve into this project with the help of my family and friends. Do you enjoy being your own boss and being responsible for a team of staff? Wheever you are in charge of a business or a team, you need good time management and organisation skills. At this point i’m very happy with my team and my job.
Taverna Arena (Facebook.com/TabernaArena) Tel: 646 34 70 36, Just off Triana, Calle Arena 12 35002 Las Palmas of Gran Canaria (Las Palmas)
Tell us more about Pintxos, what are they? A pintxo is a piece of bread, topped with various ingredients. They vary from region to region and create an explosion of flavours. We like to combine fresh local ingredients with fruit, nuts and different sauces. Many of our readers enjoy seeing the “real” Gran Canaria. Apart from visiting your restaurant, what else could you recommend they do in the area? Close by we have the historic zone, Vegueta, this is a lovely place to visit. Also in Triana and Vegueta we have lots of museums, theatres and art galleries. It really is a wonderful place to visit, work and live. Thanks for your time Joaquin, I’m sure many of our readers will be calling in to try your delicious food.
Taberna Arena is offering all of our readers a very special promotion:
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WHAT’S IN TELDE?
Visiting the 101 Km2, of this municipality, without a doubt will show you the true heart of canarian life. This old, large city conserves some of the richest landscaping, archaeological, historical and artistic wealth of the archipelago. Telde is often overlooked by residents and visitors but it has lots to offer. The beaches in Telde are wonderful, generally quieter than the beaches in the south, several of Telde’s beaches are connected by an extensive promenade. There are 9 beaches in total but the most popular is Melenara beach. 600m in length and in the shape of shell. It is made up fundamentally of dark fine basaltic sands and has recently been awarded the Blue Flag by the FEEE, “Foundation for the Environmental Education in Europe” The great selection of seafood restaurants, bars and cafés make it a great place to spend a really relaxed day. For a more cultural visit, you could visit San Juan and San Francisco. The cobbled streets, museums, churches and a wonderful park offer a great alternative to the south and Las Palmas. There are several small bars and restaurants around the plaza in San Juan, great for some tortilla. There is also a wonderful audio guided tour service every Friday at 12:00 that is provided on a donation basis, bring your own headphones or buy a set from them for 1,50€. If you prefer to wander around yourself, start in the centre of San Juan at the church and begin to potter about, the locals are very friendly and helpful.
If you like shopping, Telde is a great place for bargains in the San Gregorio area. Mostly independent clothes and shoe shops and a few high street stores, San Gregorio is a busy little shopping area mainly situated on one pedestrianised street. At the top of the street, you will also find a beautiful town square with a great tapas restaurant to fill a gap and quench your thirst.
To get to Telde by bus, take the number 90 from the south. The bus stops in the middle of the two areas, San Juan and San Gregorio so you can make your choice which to visit first.
See Telde Tourism and Discover Telde Tours websites for more information
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© Rob Davis Photography
A PHOTOGRAPHER’S BEST INTENTIONS
Have you ever returned home after a full day of carrying your camera around your neck only realise that you have not taken a single photo? Annoying isn’t it? Don’t worry though, you are not the first to have done this and you won’t be the last! The reason for your chaffed neck and lack of photographs is simple; you had no motivation or pre planned intention for your images. The world, to a photographer, is what a blank canvas is to a painter or an empty page to a writer. There are so many possibilities that the brain sometimes gives up looking for a place to start. Without an idea of what you wish to record, the world is just too overpowering. Light and subject matter are literally everywhere so unless you have an idea of where to point your camera, it is quite possible you will not point it at all! Every photograph you have ever shot had an intention. This may be known to you and in your conscious mind or it maybe hidden away deep in your unconscious but there will always have been a reason ‘why’ you pressed the shutter release button.
The easy answer is maybe to say “for memoires” but this is only half the story. Why, for example, did you choose that exact time and place to shoot the photo? Rather than try to find out why we photographed something or someone it is more productive for us, as photographers, to know why we are going to photograph something before we do. What is the motivation for shooting this picture or series of pictures? By creating a list of specific criteria we can narrow the world down, much like putting “Blinkers” on a race horse. It helps us to avoid distractions and focus on our objective. It’s similar to buying a new pair of shoes. When we decide we want a new pair, we start seeing shoes everywhere, on our friends, on the TV, even looking at the shoes of others all the way to the shop. Our focus has become “directed”. We are all different and so are the intentions of our photos but here are some simple things to keep in mind before you go out, and right up to before you take the picture.
What will I do with this photo? Print it, post it on a social media site, Send it to friends e.g. Which type of photo do I want to shoot today? Landscape, seascape, portrait, family, architecture e.g. What do I want this photo to “say”? happy, sad, stunning, beautiful, peaceful e.g. Finished image? Colour, black and white e.g. This was the single best tip I was offered as a young photographer. By answering questions like these before you start shooting it will help you to see what to shoot. And continually asking and answering these questions will push your photography forward by creating consistency and purpose. So tell me, what are you going to photograph next, and why? Rob Davis is a proffessional portrait / fine art photographer and teacher offering help at all levels to those who want to improve their understanding of photography...
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MORTGAGE NUMBERS RISE IN GRAN CANARIA AND CANARY ISLANDS
The latest mortgage statistics from the Canary Islands are positive with local banks granting 76.2% more mortgages in January 2015 than in January 2014. The total number of mortgages in the Canaries during January was 2,243. Mortgage numbers also spiked across the Canary Islands between December 2014 and January 2015 with an 81% increase from 1,238 to 2, 243. In Gran Canaria, the number of mortgages rose 168,19%, from 393 in December to 1,054 in January. While this month-to-month rise is largely seasonal, the overall data suggests that the Gran Canaria and Canary Islands property market is gradually gaining strength. We believe that this is due to two factors: An increase in available credit: Spanish banks are now moving back into the mortgage market because it is becoming an important source of business to them. With interest rates in Europe so low (the 12 month Euribor rate is currently a lowly 0.2%) few people are putting their savings into the bank. Buyers who were willing but unable to get a mortgage are now returning to the market. A rise in demand from local property buyers: We believe that the market in the Canary Islands and specifically in south Gran Canaria, our area of expertise, is still a buyer’s market. However we are seeing a rise in demand from both foreign buyers keen to take advantage of the weak euro and low interest rates, and from local buyers looking for a decent return on their money. Buyers are taking advantage of rental yields and low mortgage rates to invest in property. For foreign buyers focused on south Gran Canaria, the market is attractive. Supply exceeds demand and there are plenty of bargains. With the euro weak compared to other currencies, mortgage rates low and tourism booming, it’s an excellent time to buy a holiday home or second residence. Here at Cardenas Real Estate we continue to list the best properties on the market and to focus on providing our clients with the best possible service. We also offer Gran Canaria property viewing trips with free accommodation if you buy. (http://www.cardenas-grancanaria.com/en/viewing-trip.htm) Source: Canarian Institure of Statistics (ISTAC)
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SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY HAS BEEN HAPPENING IN PUERTO RICO “Customer acquisition” specialists, Centrea, have spent the last year or more working closely with the various community groups representing Mogán business owners within the main Shopping Center of this thriving and popular tourist town, on the south coast of Gran Canaria. Together they have created and developed an integrated information and advertising platform that looks clearly set to thrust the SCPuertoRico firmly into the 21st century, by offering a combination of free wifi services and a free-to-download mobile app providing real benefits to customers and business owners alike. Designed specially for the Shopping Center Puerto Rico, the app provides invaluable information along with up-todate guidance on everything the center has to offer.
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
There is a wide range of businesses in this buzzing centro comercial, and all of these are now arranged into easyto-grasp segments within the app; (Night Life, Entertainment, Gastronomy, Shopping, and ‘Others‘), with details on every one of the individual businesses. Each business now has its own page with a clear description and images, as well as the opening hours and specific location, and links to web sites and profiles for social networks. Designed to make it easier than ever for holidaymakers to choose where they would like to spend the best time of their holidays. The app also has a feature enabling users to make reservations for exclusive daily ‘Hot Deals‘. Never before has it been so easy to tell visitors about all you have to offer as a business.
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Fantastic discounts, as well as products and services tailored to specific needs, are available at the touch of a fingertip, with a browser to help you find all the information you could ever need. Billed as “The ideal tool to install on your mobile, for tourists and for residents too” the SCPuertoRico app is user-friendly and free to download. It gives visitors the option to register before they even get here, and to receive daily notifications about events, promotions and special offers from the hundreds of shops, restaurants, bars, outlets and various services that Puerto Rico Shopping Center has to offer.
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Download the SCPuertRico app from apple or google and join with the future of success in Puerto Rico, with this neat little innovation helping small and medium businesses to punch well above their weight in an increasingly global market, where the customers of tomorrow want all the information the need before they even step inside the shop. All of Centrea’s hard work, coupled with the foresight Distribution Points of The Month: of various M&M is situated on the top floor community of Phase 3. They sell quality drinks at managers, the cheapest prices in the whole of has resulted in Puerto Rico ie: local spirit with a can of real Pepsi or Schweppes mixer is the first really exciting €1-50 and €2-00 with imported Spircommercial application of its. A pint of Estrella Dame will cost its kind on Gran Canaria, benefiting you €1-00. tourists with better information and helping Sagitarius Cat offer day trips from local businesses to really shine. Puerto Base, with transfer from hotel Great work.
to boat, breakfast, lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, hand fishing lines, banana boat, trip to sea caves. All Included at one great price. 0034 609359020 or 0034 649881368
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SI! VIVA ESPAÑA! So you’ve decided to marry in Spain and want to inject some Spanish elements into your special day. Here are just a few ideas that will give your guests something to talk about in years to come. Spanish Guitarist Imagine the soft strings of the Spanish Guitar serenading your guests as they enter the ceremony area waiting for you to arrive. Then sit back and relax at the Welcome Cocktail as you all enjoy a mixture of both relaxed and vibrant Spanish music, while sipping a glass of champagne looking out to sea. It’s the quiet moments like these that truly make you and your guests feel relaxed and submerged in the beautiful Spanish Island. Spanish Flamenco Dancers Kick the party off with the energetic and poetic movements of the Spanish dancers. The tapping of the feet on the wooden decking, the clicking of the castanets and the twirling of their many colourful Spanish dress will give you and your guests many beautiful memories of your special day. Canarian Dancers & musicians There is no Canarian event without the presence of the typical Canarian Dancers with the singers and musicians. Delight your guests with some Canarian entertainment while you have your photos taken.
It’s a great way to start off the wedding celebrations and will remind you and your guests of why you decided to hold your special day on our beautiful Canarian Island Fans The fan or “abanico” is synonymous with Spain and any Spanish wedding. Arrange for a basket of fans to be available for your guests as they arrive at the ceremony area to be used to cool them down during the day. They can be plain wooden fans or can be personalized with your names and/or made in the color theme of your day. Not forgetting a nice white lace fan for the bride to inject a little Spanish tradition into wedding look. Welcome gifts It’s customary for bride and grooms to arrange a small welcome gift at the hotel when the guests arrive on the island. Why not choose a small basket of Spanish wines and Canarian delicacies such as “mojo” sauce. Or choose a nice ceramic souvenir of the island. Not only will it set the scene for the whole event, but will also be something nice for them to enjoy in resort or take home with them as a souvenir. We love to talk weddings so please contact me for many more advice and tips for arranging your wedding in Spain and the Canary Islands. Bernadette Garside Founder and Director of The Perfect Wedding Company
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Chiqui Marti is well known as one of the most highly accredited erotic dance and “Strip-art” professionals in the Spanish speaking world. As a dancer she began work at the famous Cabaret El Molino in Barcelona and in major nightclubs throughout Spain.
and gentleman, of any orientation, who wish to explore their wide range of quality products designed on enhance and enliven life in the bedroom, kitchen, terrace or beach!
Her fame and popularity grew thanks to numerous television appearances
Scandals will of course be taking part in this year’s PRIDE Parade March through Playa del Inglés, on May 16th, with their very own Float of Sensuality, a Love Bus par excellence, with a special DJ and a Drag Queen, where the drinks are as free as the guests are to celebrate sexual freedom and the right to love who you love, or explore someone you adore in a safe, consensual and exciting environment.
On May 8th she performs on Gran Canaria at the opening of Scandals at the Centro Commercial Cita, in Playa del Inglés with her infamous Strip-art show, posing for photographs and signing autographs. The launch of Scandals is free to attend for all open minded couples and individuals, as well as those who might need a little more encouragement, who will be treated to drinks, music and nibbles while the delicious
Scandals crew introduce you to their newest outlet right in the heart of the Maspalomas Costa Canaria. Scandals Pride themselves on catering to your curiosity by providing experience and good advice for women, couples
Encouraging you to Be Sensual and discover The Art of Sex!
Early Bird tickets are available for just €55, with everything included. It would be rude not to!
Come Hop on!
For More Information Email: Scandals@TheCanaryNews.com
Come for a ride you’ll never forget!
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Twitters from the Atlantic
© Barrie Mahoney
THE UNFRIENDLY EXPAT During this UK pre-election period, most of us will come to realise that statistics can be adjusted to mean almost anything to anyone. It was therefore with some cynicism that I read a recent article where the authors claimed that “Nearly one third of British expats have no local friends and refuse to stray beyond the safety of their British friendship groups”. The study went on to claim that only one in four expats would describe their social group as mainly British, with one in 10 admitting that their friends were exclusively British. Only 10 per cent of expats claimed to mix mainly with local people, and more than one third couldn’t be bothered to learn the language, with a quarter admitting that they were not at all interested in the culture that they found themselves living in. The implied message from the article was, of course, that British expats living overseas are a miserable lot, whilst expats from other countries are so much friendlier and easier to talk to. It all made for rather shocking reading, but then I remembered to add a rather hearty pinch of salt that I usually reserve for some of the more outrageous British tabloids.
contact with friends and family in the UK, it is local friends and neighbours who will be there to advise and to help in a crisis. Admittedly, the attitude of the host country and its people also has an impact upon the happiness of the newly arrived expat and will help to determine how quickly expats settle. One survey claims that the vast majority of expats immediately feel at home in New Zealand, with similar responses from expats living in Canada. Again, it is the warmth of the welcome, and a shared language and culture that are the main factors for this result, but the same thing can happen in Spain, France, Italy and Portugal too.
As a newspaper reporter in Spain’s Costa Blanca, I once had the misfortune to report upon the misery of one Spanish couple who were being ostracised by their mainly British neighbours, for being the only Spanish couple living in ‘their urbanisation’. When I attempted to discover the reasons for the hostility, a range of complaints were thrown at me, including the couple having meals, drinking and partying late at night, playing loud Spanish music, their untidy garden, as well as parking in the wrong places. On the face of it, most were trivial complaints from a colony of Brits who preferred to be in bed by 10.30pm, and unwilling to adjust to the culture, timing and habits of residents from the host country. Sadly, I later discovered that the Spanish family could stand the unpleasantness no longer and moved away from the area. The expats had missed good opportunities to learn from their Spanish neighbours. If they had bothered to learn a little Spanish, much could have been resolved through friendly discussion, as a well as adopting more of a ‘live and let live’ attitude to their neighbours. It seemed that most of these expats were not happy people, and most would have been much happier living in Bognor Regis than in an expat urbanisation in the Costa Blanca.
So what relevance does all this data have upon the expat contemplating moving to or already living in Spain or another European country? It is true that expat life can sometimes revolve around mixing with and socialising with expats from the same country of origin. Much the same criticism can be said about the Germans, Swedish, Irish and Norwegians who often feel more comfortable and sheltered by their own communities, who are anxious to build their own churches, schools Integrating into a new commuand hospitals, using only their nity, trying to learn the language, own shops, restaurants and bars. however many mistakes, as well Many British, Irish, German or as appreciating the culture, is all Norwegian urbanisations that I part of the adventure and process visited as a reporter in Spain were of settling into a new home, a On a more positive note, my clearly defended against pernew community and a new coun- ceived ‘outsiders’, including those own experiences of British extry. Even though technology now from the host country. pats is that most are more than means that it is easy to maintain happy to mix with their European
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper. He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands. neighbours, given the opportunity. Often, failure to mix is due to lack of motivation to learn the language, together with traditional British reserve and, unlike the article written around some rather suspect statistics, it has very little to do with a lack of willingness to make friends.
If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander. com or read his book, ‘Expat Voice’ (ISBN: 9780992767174). Available in paperback, as well as Kindle, iBooks and Google Play editions. iPhone/iPad and Android Apps: ExpatInfo, CanaryIsle and CanaryGay now available. © Barrie Mahoney
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GETTING TO GRIPS WITH CANARIAN SPANISH Diego Mesa (Puerto Rico Language Centre)
understanding the locals
One thing you must have noticed while living on the island, is that most of the locals cherish their origins, customs, culture and their climate to the point of even having their holidays either in the south of Gran Canaria, or just visiting a neighbouring island like Tenerife, Lanzarote or going ‘as far as’ La Palma. Although this gives newcomers the impression that they are not open minded enough, they can actu-
ally tell you about all the different streets and villages within the island and their experiences in each one of these little places, where they have been, giving those that know less about the island a chance to find out.
Puerto de Mogán. All of these places retain their unique history, architechture and their festivities including Canarian folkloric music and dancing for everyone to enjoy and have an opportunity to mingle. If you go to El Barranco de los Cernícalos, past Telde, for example, you will find it is an amazing place to go hiking, and if you want to go to the Barranco de Guayadeque, past Carrizal, you will have the opportunity to eat amazing Canarian food in the cave house restaurants there.
One enjoyable way of getting out and about is researching the different areas of Gran Canaria, and finding out what they are renowned for. For example, Guía is well known for its cheese, Teror for its chorizo, Agaete for its oranges as well as its fresh fish, just like Arguineguín and El Take a look at the following Canarian words:
TINO 1. Ease with which one remembers their past. Memory. E.g. Aunque no es muy viejo, ya se le van las cosas del tino. Although he is not very old, he already forgets his past. 2. Sense, conciousness. E.g. A veces le dan mareos y pierde el tino. - He/She sometimes has dizzy spells and loses consciousness.
BAÑA 1. Pig´s fat. Also used for the fat of other animals that has accumulated as a result of excessive eating. E.g. Iba apartando la baña para hacer manteca. - He/She was separating the lard to make fat. 2. Fat build up in humans resulting in love handles. E.g. Salía todas las tardes a caminar para bajar la baña. - He/She used to go out for a walk every afternoon to burn his/her fat.
As a final piece of advice, everyone who explores more of the island, learns of its unique landscape, but more importantly it offers an opportunity to learn about the way the real locals lead their lives. It really is a pity when visitors just stick to Playa del Inglés or Puerto Rico simply because there are more English speakers in that area. This can lead many to having a sense of living in a really tiny and enclosed space, lacking in new opportunities which allow you to expand your mind and mingle with a different type of crowd.
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Language Lesson #93
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
with Theresa Coe
‘A HOUSE WHITE’: BACK TO FRONT IS RIGHT!
How to use adjectives in Spanish We looked at words that describe people and things in lessons 13 and 14 (available on request). ‘Describers’ can be tricky as they usually go after the noun and may change from masculine to feminine. We´ve all heard of Puerto Rico (Rich Port) but really we´re saying ‘port rich’. It´s the same with Casablanca or ‘house white’ in Spanish.
GET THINGS IN ORDER So, a pretty girl is a ‘girl pretty’: una chica guapa, while un chico guapo is a handsome guy. As with nouns like amigo and amiga (male and female friend) it´s ‘o’ for a male describer and ‘a’ for a female one. And everything is supposed to ‘line up’ in terms of being masculine, feminine, singular or plural. This means that there are four ways to say a simple adjective like ‘rich’ (rico, rica, ricos, ricas). They don´t make it easy, do they? For example: Bill Gates es rico; Madonna es rica; no somos ricos (we´re not rich); las chicas ricas beben champán (the rich girls drink champagne. Confusingly, this word means something totally different if you combine it with ESTAR (meaning ‘to be’ for temporary stuff and location). La comida está rica – the food is tasty. La chica está rica – the girl looks tasty/hot!
Estamos relajados – we are relaxed. La música es relajante – the music is relaxing. Estoy preocupado por ella – I´m worried for her. La situación es preocupante – the situation is worrying.
THE ONES WITH ‘OSO’ Another set of adjectives that we can learn together end in ‘oso’
Similar to English: Curious – curioso; delicious – delicioso; fabulous – fabuloso; famous – famoso; generous – generoso (heh-neh-ROH-soh); jealous – celoso (seh-LOH-soh), mysterious – misterioso; nervous – nervioso; religious – religioso (reh-lee-hee-oso); precious (also beautiful) – precioso. BUT serious is serio (NOT serioso). Examples: la chica está nerviosa porque (ella) tiene un examen mañana – the girl is nervous because she has an exam tomorrow. Las playas son preciosas – the beaches are beautiful. No soy religioso/a – I´m not religious. Different to English:
MAKING LIFE EASIER Danger = el peligro. Dangerous = peligroso/a The good news is that if you make a mistake and say ‘es una mesa plástico’ instead of plástica, people will understand you fine – it´s a plastic table. However many adjectives are neutral, (often ending in an ‘e’) so you don´t need to change them from masculine to feminine. We can learn them in sets as many are similar to English. For example, if you want to translate an adjective ending in ING like interesting, it´ll usually end in –ante in Spanish.
THE ONES WITH ‘ANTE’ Interesting – interesante; fascinating – fascinante; irritating – irritante; relaxing – relajante (reh-la-HAN-teh); worrying - preocupante (think: preocuppying); stressful – estresante; exciting – excitante (though it might be safe to use emocionante as the former can have sexual connotations).
THE ONES WITH ‘ADO/IDO’ Another set to learn together are the ones that often describe feelings and end in ‘ed’ in English, like tired, the equivalent of which is ‘ado’ (somtimes ‘ido’) in Spanish. Remember to change ‘o’ to ‘a’ if you´re describing a woman. Interested – interesado; fascinated – fascinado; tired – cansado; irritated –irritado; busy – ocupado (think occupied); worried – preocupado (think: preocuppied), stressed – estresado; excited – excitado/emocionado; complicated – complicado. Examples: La chica está irritada - the girl is irritated (temporary state with estar). BUT: La mosca es irritante -the fly is irritating (inherent characteristic with ser)
Talent= el talento. Talented = talentoso/a Noise= el ruido. Noisy = ruidoso/a (roo-ee-DOH-soh) Disgust = el asco. Disgusting = asqueroso (ass-keh-ROH-soh)
SAME IN BOTH LANGUAGES: THE ONES WITH ‘L’ Cruel (croo-EL); legal/ilegal (i-leh-GAL); formal/informal; natural (na-too-RAL); especial; normal. Also, posible, probable: terrible (teh-REE-bleh), irritable (pronounced irri-TAH-bleh) etc.
VERY SIMILAR: ADD A VOWEL! Often just by adding a vowel, we convert an English adjective to a Spanish one. With ‘e’ you get: elegante, excelente, ignorante, importante, inteligente, (in-teh-lee-HEN-teh), and valiente, (brave – think: valient). These ones work with ‘o’ (or ‘a’ to describe females or female words): contento, estúpido, fantástico, perfecto, rápido, tímido El restaurante es muy elegante – the restaurant is very elegant. La isla es fantástica – the island is fantastic. A-Z of adjectives You can read all about how to use Spanish adjectives and then do practice quizzes free at: www.studyspanish.com/lessons/ adj1.htm For an A-Z of popular adjectives see: www.spanishlanguageguide.com/grammar/adjective.asp
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Free! The Gran Canaria Language exchange 1,400 people take part in language exchange gatherings and conversation clubs around the island. We meet weekly in Playa del Inglés, San Fernando, Arguineguin, Agüimes Las Palmas, Telde and Arucas. To find out more, check out:
Facebook.com/LEGintercambio or email me theresacoe@gmail.com For info about Spanish classes, the language exchange or to receive past lessons from this newspaper, just drop me an email.
CUSTOM STAMPS WHILE YOU WAIT!
From 15.00€ Tel: 677 807 300 The Print Shop theprintshopgc@yahoo.com Your Name or Logo Here
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The Mighty Quinny A day oot on the Afrikat...
An invitation from Wendy and Potter to spend a day on the Afrikat sailing out of Puerto Rico on the last day of March was too much for me and Amanda to resist, we arrived in puerto base early and had a coffee as we watched the various boats prepare to sail, the sun was out and not a cloud in the sky. We were called to the jetty on time at 9-45 and proceeded to board the boat once on board after the safety brief Potter and the crew outlined the days itinerary was pretty much as follows drink & fun followed by more drink and more fun, and Potters mad attempt to DJ was hilarious, we noticed that we British were in the minority and as luck had it we sat next to Darren, Allison and young Josh from Blackpool so a total of 5 Brits on the boat with people from all over Europe and even South America, strangers at the beginning of the day excited and ready for adventure. Potter served us our first drinks at our seats and we were then told we could help ourselves after that (heaven lol) after arriving at a small beach just the other side of Puerto de Mogán, one or two brave souls decided to try the snorkelling, though most were back aboard quicker than they dived in. A boat trip to the caves is also included in the price and lots of the party took advantage
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however our seat next to the beer pump was too good to lose, jet Ski’s and Paracending are available at very good 50% discount prices and quite a few tried it a lot more affordable from the boat than at the beach. Once everyone had done their extras Potter announced lunch was served. It was well worth the wait, meatballs, salad, dips, canarian potatoes and lots more, people were mingling and laughing together, the language barrier ceased to exist. As well as the drinks included in the price, other beverages were available too at very reasonable prices, Potters Mojito was to die for. After lunch we sailed back slowly to Puerto Rico with one or two dancing at the front of the boat, then Potter played the music from the Titanic as the swell increased. Brilliant, though one or two of the older trippers looked a bit nervous as we arrived back in port. A day that started with lots of strangers finished with lots of newly found friends. Sun, Fun, Food and Friendship sums up the day. Thanks to all aboard the Afrikay, well worth a daytrip!
Send your answers by email to: Quinny@TheCanaryNews.com, text them to 626 641 537 or call 928 987 952 for your chance to win a day trip for two aboard the amazing Afrikat catamaran, for an all inclusive voyage of discovery in the southern waters of Gran Canaria leaving from Puerto Rico. All correct answers will be collected together, independently drawn and announced in the next edition Last editions winners are Dennis and Margaret, who’ve won a trip for two on the Afrikat!
Ans Coche
7.Where according to sailors is Davey Jones locker found? Ans whiskey
4.What alcoholic drink is used in the phonetic alphabet?
Ans Frankie goes to Hollywood
3. Which band did Holly Johnson front? Ans Ford
2. Which company produces the Focus and Fiesta cars? Ans Green door
1.what colour door did Shakin Stevens sing about?
10. Name the capital of Greece?
Ans The tigers
9. Which river flows through London?
5. Which chocolate bar is advertised as a truckers favourite? Ans Yorkie
8.Which sport did Jocky Wilson play?
6. What is Hull City FC nickname?
5.Lead singer with T.Rex?
Ans Bottom of the sea
4. Spanish word for apple?
8. What is the Spanish word for car?
3.Cake named after a heavy wooded area in Germany?
7.Sky, Azure, Dark and Light are shades of what colour?
9. What type of motor sport is associated with the Isle of Man? Ans T.T or motorbike racing
2. Premier league club nicknamed the foxes?
Answers from last edition 10. In which T.V. show do the actors travel through time in the tardis? Ans Dr Who
1. How many points is Z 6. M.G.M movies start with a what a Lion, a Tiger or worth in scrabble 9,10 or 11? a Puma?
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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria