The Lanzarote Gazette April 2015 by The Gazette

| April 2015 | The Gazette

April 2015

EDITOR’S LETTER

Game of Thrones Lanzarote´s municipal elections don´t take place until next month, but the knives are already out in the corridors of power as politicians frantically manoeuvre to ensure their survival. This is serious stuff. It´s not only the politicians, but the teams who support them, who could face four years out in the cold after May 24th, so its hardly surprising that they´re jockeying for position, and that tempers often fray. In the past, I´ve urged all Gazette readers to participate in the elections, and the votes of British, Irish and other foreign residents are becoming increasingly important in some municipalities. But to make your vote count, you need to know who to vote for, so this month we print a lowdown

on the island´s political scene. We also talk to the President of Lanzarote´s Cabildo, who’ll be playing his own game of thrones in May. And remember that this is the time when promises get made. So if you want something done for yourself, your street or your association, now´s the time to have a chat with your local candidates. The elections are not “just for locals”, as many still think. Every Lanzarote politician I´ve spoken to has urged British and Irish voters to participate fully in the life of the island, and they´re right. If you live on Lanzarote, and love Lanzarote; vote. Enjoy the mag

ontents C 12

Politics 12

MEET THE PRESIDENT We speak to Cabildo President Pedro San Ginés as he seeks to renew his mandate.

THE POLITICAL SCENE A need-to-know guide to Lanzarote politics in the run-up to next month´s elections.

Your Gazette to Your Door Delivered to your door every month from €2 The Canary Islands & Spain 2€ per month - Total 24€ per year. The rest of Europe 8€ per month - Total 96€ per year For Visa or cash payments please contact the office directly on:

928 511 515

classified@gazettelive.com

Shaun

EXPRESS YOUR SELFIE! Win a 5 weekend in our selfie competition

MAY ADVERTISING DEADLINES: Features/Advertorials: 13th April 2015 Other Advertisements: 15th April 2015

Regulars 06 08 40 42 44 45 68

FITNESS

THE MONTH IN NEWS ISLAND NOTICEBOARD ED’S POST BAG PET SPOT PRIZE CROSSWORD LIVING LANZAROTE WHAT’S ON

Features 20

FOOD

RING MASTERS Canarian wrestling is the island´s most popular native sport.

75 87 114 128 129 130

MAPS MY HOME SPORT TIDE TABLE / USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS HOROSCOPES LANZAROTE PEOPLE

For all enquiries please call:

928 51 15 15

Fax: +34 928 512 461 EMAIL CONTACTS

EDITORIAL editorial@gazettelive.com ADVERTISING advertising@gazettelive.com

IRONMAN Coming soon to a beach or road near you…

CLASSIFIEDS classified@gazettelive.com

BREXIT THREAT Could the UK leave Europe before Christmas?

PUBLISHED BY

PRETINSA QUALITY SL Carretera Macher - Pto. Del Carmen

MY HOME

YOUNG REPORTERS Arrecife school children tackle the news.

ROUND AND ROUND April 1st brings a surprising new tourist proposal.

SELFIE EXPRESSION Get your face in print with the Gazette’s exciting new competition

OCEAN WAVE Offshore fun on in the Atlantic.

No. 24, 35571, Lanzarote CIF: B-65735672

DEPOSITO LEGAL: GC 73/2012 Whilst we make every effort to ensure that material published in the magazine is decent, legal and accurate, it can take no responsibility for any damage or loss which might arise as a result of material published herein. We are not responsible for third party advertisers within the magazine. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers or the editor.

TheGazette Read the magazine online: www.thegazettelive.com

MOTORS

118

abildo SPLIT

Lanzarote’s Cabildo now has no majority ruling group after the Socialist party officially broke their pact with Coalición Canaria in early March. he Socialists said “lack of trust in Cabildo President Pedro San Ginés” was the main reason for their decision, and that they had nothing against the CC. This, theoretically allows Socialist/CC pacts in San Bartolomé, Teguise and Arrecife Ayuntamientos to continue. San Ginés responded by saying that the breaking of the pact was an “electoral strategy” hatched up by the leader of Lanzarote`s Socialists, Maria Dolores Corujo, and the Socialist candidate for the Cabildo Presidency, José Juan Cruz. He called the Socialists “irresponsible” for voting to abstain in an important meeting to approve the budgets for the island. The Socialist Cabildo councillors Joaquín Caraballo, Rocío Arredondo, Enma Cabrera and José Antonio Gutiérrez all resigned their posts immediately after the decision. Although pacts often break up in the run-up to elections, allowing parties to strengthen their identity and distance themselves from rivals, the vote in the

Maria Dolores Corujo, leader of Lanzarote´s Socialists

Cabildo still surprised some. The pact had lasted for two and a half years (which is pretty good going on Lanzarote), and was formed in 2012 after the CC broke with the PP, who had received the highest number of votes in the 2011 elections. The PP´s support for the oil prospections caused a realignment of alliances throughout the island, with CC/Socialist pacts holding sway in San Bartolomé, Teguise and Arrecife. CC secretary David de la Hoz shortly announced that the CC would continue supporting the pacts in the Ayuntamientos, although he added that there had been “strong voices” against this within his party. With less than two months left until the elections change everything in May, it is unlikely that the Cabildo will suffer much from the lack of an effective majority. However, what promises to be a hard-fought and

WE CAN FIND A SOLUTION OPENING A NEW BUSINESS? Contact us today - we will be happy to help with all the fiscal aspects necessary in Spain Please contact us for details.

Tel: 928 513 300 / 11 Fax: 902 810 206 www.ebfconsulting.com

• • • • •

Cabildo candidate José Juan Cruz

Asesoria Fiscal Accountancy

Fully qualiﬁed, bilingual staff collaborating with other professional bodies.

Accounting & Tax Services Opening Licences Price Lists Transport Licences Residencias MAIN OFFICE C/ Reina Sofia 68, Puerto del Carmen Tias 35510

unpredictable election is putting all of the island´s major parties parties on edge. The PP, who won the most votes last time round, face a much tougher job after the oil drilling issue; the CC are attempting to fix internal ructions, while the PIL’s presence in court cases could continue to affect its chances at the polls. Meanwhile, the Socialists still need to prove that they can lure disillusioned ex-voters back. A raft of smaller parties, including local neighbourhood groups, environmentalists and Podemos circles, are hoping to take advantage of general disillusion. One thing is for sure – it´ll get a lot more interesting before the elections happen, after which its anyone´s guess what will happen.

• NIF • Health & Hygiene courses • EORI numbers for import/export • Data Protection PLAYA BLANCA (by appointment only)

Office hours: Mon - Fri : 9.00 - 14.30

To do list

APRIL 1st qtr business tax returns Tax on rental income for non residents 1st payment on account Corporation Tax Annual income tax return

A.E.A.F.T. Tax advisers association

The Gazette | April 2015 |

News The

Month in

faces eleven charges along with the architect of the Bodega. Judge Silvia Muñoz, in her summary, stated that Rosa “hatched a plan based on a continuous and premeditated untruth, which relied on the complicity of all the institutions involved.” The Bodega Stratvs was closed last year after an injunction was taken out by the court.

n Art to the rescue

n Stratvs Case Accused Lanzarote businessman Juan Francisco Rosa, his architect and fifteen other current and expoliticians from Yaiza Ayuntamiento, Lanzarote Cabildo and the Canarian Government have been called to testify in the Stratvs case. The case relates to planning irregularities in the granting of licences to Bodega Stratvs in La Geria. It is alleged that Rosa was not the legal owner of the building where the Bodega was constructed, and sought to decieve authorities, many of whom were happy to collude. Rosa

Teguise Mayor Oswaldo Betancort has invited proposals from the art schools in Lanzarote and Gran Canaria to “embellish and beautify” what are known as “skeleton buildings” – projects for hotels that ran out of funds or credit. “We’re committed to restoring the plots that have, over the years, have been turned into dumps and rubble tips with a huge negative impact on the landscape, and we trust that the power of art can change a situation that we don´t like and that we are not, at the moment, able to change,” said the Mayor. Planning laws and the threat of compensation claims forbids the demolition of projects that are, technically, still under construction.

n Hanglider

accidents continue Another rescue operation for a crashed hang glider is sure to raise further questions about the sport´s safety. A French glider suffered leg injuries after falling in the Tinajo region. The following day, a hang glider’s body was recovered in Tenerife after a helicopter rescue operation. A number of hang gliders have been injured or rescued in recent months, and in January a 55year old man died after a crash on Lanzarote.

n 30 years of market Teguise market celebrated its 30th anniversary in March with parades, music and a big cake. The event was attended by Cabildo commerce Councillor Lourdes Cabrera. The market in Teguise began on 12th March 1985 when a group of artisans decided to set up a small craft fair. In the years since, the market has grown rapidly, becoming one of the most popular tourist outings on the island.

Teguise Ayuntamiento has announced an ambitious project aiming to convert the eyesore unfinished building works in Costa Teguise into “open-air art galleries.”

SOLICITORS l LAWYERS l ABOGADOS l RECHTSANWÄLTE PREMIER LEGAL FIRM FOR UK RESIDENTS AND EX-PATS 25 YEARS ADVISING AND FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS BRITISH STAFF AND PROFESSIONALS AT YOUR SERVICE

SPECIALISING l PROPERTY CONVEYANCE l INHERITANCE LAW, WILLS AND PROBATE l FAMILY LAW l CONTRACTS AND LEASE l FLOOR CLAUSES l LITIGATION

Est. Since 1988

firm director: angeles san gregorio franco lawyer reg no. 39

( (0034) 928 80 63 63 C/ Galicia 20, Corralejo C/ Jose Molina 6, 1st C Fuerteventura

Arrecife

Puerto Del Carmen Playa Blanca - corner varadero - C/ PALANGRE C/ Teide 22

Fax: (0034) 928 80 64 28 l Skype: asginterconsulting l info@asginterconsulting.es l www.asginterconsulting.es 6

| April 2015 | The Gazette

n Underwater

museum threat

Helge Achenbach

n Cueva appeal The Cabildo of Lanzarote has appealed against a judgment by an Arrecife court which would force the island government to return control of the Cueva de los Verdes to Haria Ayuntamiento, as well as pay compensation of millions of Euros. The court ordered the Cabildo to “immediately leave” the Cueva and pay damages to Haría to recompense the northern municipality for lost income from November 2010 – an amount that could total more than €10 million.

n The “Other

Canary Islands” The Nueva Canarias party has called for Playa Blanca´s underwater museum to be halted after the promoter responsible for the project, German art dealer Helge Achenbach, was sentenced to six years jail for cheating his customers. Achenbach was found guilty of overcharging the late Aldi heir Berthold Albrecht of more than €19 million. The flamboyant art promoter had recently signed a number of agreements in Lanzarote, including a contract with Teguise Ayuntamiento to transform the Convent of Santo Domingo into an international art gallery. Nueva Canarias leader Alejandro Diáz attacked Cabildo President Pedro San Ginés for praising Achenbach, pointing out the corruption charges against Canal Gestion director Gerardo Diaz and asking “How does the President explain his talent for attracting types like this?” Nevertheless, although Achenbach was instrumental in proposing the Underwater Museum project to the Cabildo, the actual contract has been signed with the artist Jason de Caires.

Named Drago, Garoe, Ico, Bimbache, Tropic, Malpaso, Paps and Ico, the islands sunk below sea level due to the cooling of the earth´s crust, Somoza claims a similar process will eventually see the modern islands sink, albeit in many millions of years time. The findings could also have an important effect on future evaluations of Canarian territory.

n Tourism news

A Spanish geologist has revealed the existence of another series of Canary Islands, which sank beneath the ocean millions of years ago. Luis Somoza, who recently presented his finding to the UN in New York has revealed the existence of eight underwater mountains which he claims were once islands. Situated to the south-west of the current islands, some of these peaks bear a startling resemblance to the existing islands.

The Canaries lead the field in Spanish tourism, with Puerto del Carmen ranking as the resort with the highest occupation figures of 2014. The first and second places were taken by San Bartolomé de Tirajana in Gran Canaria and Arona in Tenerife. Puerto del Carmen put up 423.889 foreign tourists and 54.827 Spaniards in 2014, and the average stay was 8.27 days – one of the longest in Spain. Meanwhile, February saw a slight fall in occupation levels – 87% - compared to last year, according to hotel association ASOLAN. Nevertheless, January saw a rise, and ASOLAN says the forecasts for this year are “very good.”

Chillout with a good book Its easy at the Bookswop New range of cards now in stock Come and see our NEW range of childrens books • Greeting Cards, Party Goods • Stationery, Kids Books • 1000´s of Books, New & Second Hand • Up to 50% trade-in on our returns • Fax & Photocopying Service BS II /III

Bookswop I Fariones Hotel end, Corner of C/Timanfaya Puerto del Carmen Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.00 Sat 9.30 - 14.00 Tel: 928 514 931

Bookswop II

Bookswop III

San Antonio Hotel end, C.C. Costa Luz Puerto del Carmen Mon - Fri 9.30 - 17.00 Sat 9.30 - 13.30 Tel: 928 513 563

C/ La Corvina, Rd. opposite the church Playa Blanca Mon - Fri 9.30 - 19.00 Sat 9.30 - 14.00 Tel: 928 349 420

The Gazette | April 2015 |

sland

n Art in Tinajo

Noticeboard An amazing €525 was raised, well beyond Peter´s expectations, and these proceeds will go to the Asociacion Tinguafaya, a local organisation that organises sporting and leisure activities and excursions for people with disabilities on Lanzarote. The Asociacion´s President, Jerónimo Padrón Cubas attended the event and gave a speech of thanks. Manolo Rodríguez, owner of the Concord and independent councillor for San Bartolomé also spoke, saying that he looked forward to hosting an even bigger and better event next year.

If you´re in Tinajo, be sure to pop into Pura Vida Arte y Café, a new café and art gallery that has been opened by the Fouroulis sisters, Fedra and Susanna. From 3rd April until the 30th April, you´ll be able to see an exhibition of evocative abstract artworks by Lanzarote-resident artist and teacher Cindy Batsleer. The launch party will take place on 3rd April at 7pm.

Photo: Leda Giordano

n Boxing clever!

n Red Noses all round

Over 250 people packed into Tito´s Karaoke bar in Puerto del Carmen on the 13th March for an immensely successful boxing night. All contenders fought to a high standard after weeks of training. Jon from Thunderbolt fought an exhibition bout against Darragh Duggan from Rathoath Golden Gloves in Ireland, while Niall Black won twice, preserving his unbeaten record and ensuring he´ll get a shot at the Thunderbolt title in June. The next event will be in late June and is planned to be a massive outdoor boxing exhibition. Classes started on March 25th at the Athletic Gym in the Old Town, but if anyone still wants to sign up call Jon on 618975536.

Friday March 13th saw the first celebration of Red Nose Day on Lanzarote, and perhaps in Spain. Peter Broome organised the event and, after a morning when costumed clowns went out collecting funds on the streets, a crowd packed into to the Concord bar in Playa Honda for an evening of fun and bingo.

Express Van Service Door to door service Regular Services to & from the UK, Ireland & Mainland Europe Licensed Pet Transportation

Container Shipping Container Services to & from the UK, Ireland & Mainland Europe

Direct Air Freight Regular Air Freight Services to & from UK Pet Air Freight Specialists

Car and Boat transportation

Home Car Commercial Life Assurance Pensions Income replacement Savings Travel Pet

insurance

Transportation of motor vehicles and boats from the UK to Lanzarote

Small Parcel Service

(Amazon, car parts, Argos, John Lewis etc)

FULL RANGE OF PACKAGING MATERIALS... please visit our website for prices

Office Tel: (0034) 928 869 036 Mob: (0034) 666 504 625 - Uk Tel: 08445 988 327 Espanol: (0034) 615 311 304 info@woodsidecargosl.com - www.woodsidecargosl.com

| April 2015 | The Gazette

The Health Company that takes Complete Care of you Marianne Woodroffe Tel: 928 517 709 Tel: 928 072 047

Mob: 678 451 168

For all your insurance requirements www.fia-lanzarote.com info@fia-lanzarote.com

n Sara events

n St Patricio’s Day

From 7th April, Sara animal shelter will open every Tuesday evening from 5pm to 7pm, allowing all those who are unable to pass by in the mornings to attend the centre to walk dogs, adopt animals or just chat. 11th April at 6pm will see the second annual Volunteers’ Meeting. Anyone wishing to attend should register with Sara at admin@saralanzarote.eu and request a place, as space is limited. On the 11th, of course, the Sara Car Boot Sale will also take place at Tahiche Garden Centre from 9.30am. A big event is planned in Playa Honda on the 17th, 18th and 19th of April, with activities for and about pets. There´ll be guests from Seprona (the Guardia Civil´s animal department), vets, dog groomers and plenty moe going on. Details haven´t been finalised yet, so keep an eye on www.saraprotectora.org. Finally, pencil Saturday 2nd May into your diary, which will see an Open Doors Day at Sara, when the animal shelter will unveil its new image! There´ll also be children´s activities, fun with pets and tasty tapas at budget prices. Everyone is invited to a fun, friendly family day from 11am to 5pm. Sara also ask that well-wishers check out their Teaming scheme, in which anyone can help the centre for just €1 a month. Take a look at the teaming manual at www.saraprotectora.org

n Shakespeare in Arrecife On 18th April at 9pm, the local theatre company Chespir will perform Chespir to Shakespeare, a selection of scenes from Shakespeare´s tragedies and comedies, including Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night´s Dream, Macbeth, The Taming of the Shrew and The Merry Wives of Windsor. The Spanish-language event will take place in the Recova Municipal (behind the Ayuntamiento) at 9pm. Admission is free.

Dennis and Maureen Wright

Puerto del Carmen’s old Town turned Green as usual as the annual St Patrick´s Day celebrations took place in the heart of the island´s biggest resort, which has a special place in Irish hearts. The day started with a mass at the Iglesia de Carmen, which was so full that Priest Ricardo Miranda had to offer communion to some worshippers outdoors. This was followed by celebration in the Puerto Varadero, where the tricolour was flown and Tias Mayor Pancho Hernández was joined by Irish cónsul Eileen Izquierdo Lawlor to give a speech and extend best wishes and a warm welcome to all Lanzarote´s Irish visitors and residents.

BRITISH DENTAL CLINIC TEL: 928 83 35 73 Emergency Tel no:

616 815 293

n Diamond life!

Photos: Ayto. Tías

Phone between 10am-12pm midday Weekends & Fiestas

Happy Diamond wedding anniversary to Dennis and Maureen Wright, who will celebrate 60 years of marriage on the 2nd April. Daughter Heidi writes “ My parents have known each other since they were 8 years old. Dad’s house was bombed so he moved next door but one to mum. She fancied my dad but he wasn't interested at the time, and my mum just took his love letters to other girls’ houses on her bike. Then dad left to do service in the army. When he came back, mum walked by the window and he said to his mother "Who's that fit bird?" She replied “Maureen next door but one!” Dad had two other brothers who both fancied my Mum but it was he who got to ask her out first. The rest is history.” Maureen also celebrated her 80th birthday on 30th March, makng the event an extra special occasion.

What paperwork problems?

TEL : 928 83 35 73

Call for an Appointment Mon - Fri 9.15 am - 1 pm & 2pm - 5 pm We accept

Established 1996 Friendly and welcoming family practice Modern purpose built clinic Cosmetic dentistry Teeth whitening Crown and bridgework Latest types of ceramic crowns

and veneers Implants Dr. Chris Albery BDS Sheffield UK Dentures Dr. Leo Bardales Carreño LCD Madrid Gum disease prevention Ample on site parking Camino Los Aljibes 20, 35572 Emergency cover weekends and fiestas Tias (ex Calle Los Topes)

WE GAVE ALL OURS TO A-Z From residencias, buying cars, NIEs, translating bank letters to police reports We’ll help you with all the details FAST, PERSONAL SERVICE

TEL: GUY ON 676 455 282 www.a-zpaperwork.com Email: guy@a-zpaperwork.com

The Gazette | April 2015 |

URO NEWS Spain is wine world leader

In 2014 Spain’s wine production exceeded that of France and Italy, making it the world´s leading producer of wine, exporting 22.8 million hectolitres last year – a rise of 22% on 2013. owever, the increase is unlikely to improve Spain´s reputation for wine buffs. The vast majority of the wine exports were low quality wine which is imported by other wine producing countries. France, for example, imports over 5 million hectalitres, bottling it and selling it as French wine.

Russian blues EU sanctions against Russia have affected Spain’s food exports and tourism, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel GarciaMargallo claimed last month. Garcia-Magallo said Spain had suffered "big losses" from the sanctions, after a

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Nor is the rise in exports particularly good news for Spain´s economy. Low profit margins on bulk wine sales meant that the Spanish wine industry’s profits fell by 2.2% in 2014. While Spain leads in quantity, the outstanding quality of many of its regional wines remains a secret known to locals and a few adventurous wine lovers.

meeting in Moscow. "No one is benefiting from these sanctions which are causing significant damage to the Spanish economy," he told a news conference. Last year the EU and United States slapped economic sanctions on Moscow, which they accuse of arming and backing Ukrainian rebels. Moscow retaliated by banning food products from countries which imposed sanctions including Spain.

Rajoy blasts Tsipras Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy responded angrily after Greek President Alexis Tsipras accused Spain and Portugal of scuppering Greek debt negotiations in March. Tsipras claimed that the Spanish government’s fear of radical opposition (a reference to Podemos) meant that it had taken a deliberately hard line in order to curb the leftwing Greek government’s chances of success. Rajoy responded by saying “We are not responsible for the frustration generated by the radical Greek left that promised the Greeks something it couldn’t deliver on” and added that Greece should seek to keep its promises through economic reforms.

Garcia-Magallo also said that the collapse of the rouble had “strongly affected” tourism. Before the fall in value, Russia had been an increasingly important market for Russian tourism.

24 hour medical service

English speaking doctors trained in England, experienced with the NHS.

We accept all British Travel Insurances

• Private health insurance considered • General Practitioner • 24 hr ambulance • E.C.G. • Pediatrician • Orthopaedic Surgeon • Laboratory

Surgery : 67 Avenida de Las Playas, Puerto del Carmen (0pposite San Antonio Hotel)

Tel. (0034) 928 514 274 Fax:(0034) 928 514 553

Email : surgery@britishsurgeryof lanzarote.com

The British Surgery of Lanzarote offers a 24 hour medical service. If you need to see a doctor, you can come to any of our surgeries in Puerto del Carmen or simply call our FREEPHONE number and ask for a home visit.

Photo: Luís Miguel Coloma

Interview: Pedro San Ginés: President of Lanzarote Cabildo

Pedro San Ginés has been the most powerful politician on Lanzarote for four years and will be the Coalición Canaria’s candidate for Cabildo President again this May. Shaun Addison met him at the Cabildo last month.

 President, what do you regard as the major achievements of the last four years during which you’ve been the head of Lanzarote’s island government. Firstly. We’ve managed to reach a comprehensive solution to the island’s water problem. Four years ago our water was in a state of emergency, and there were cuts all the time. Not any more.

 But wasn’t this achieved by selling off a public asset to Canal Gestión? No. the water is still in public hands, it’s just that a private company is running the service. With this agreement we’ve managed to eliminate the debt of over €50 million owed by Inalsa and ensure an adequate water utility for at least 15 years. There have been no price rises, either. We’ve also turned around the Tourist Centres. They lost money for seven years running, and we´ve turned them into profit-making concerns again. We´ve also secured investment for the dump and recycling centre at Zonzomas, and this has resulted in greater safety. A few years ago it was catching fire almost every week. Not any longer. We’ve approved over 250 public works costing €55 million, and these have been received with unanimous support by the Mayors of the Ayuntamientos. And finally; we’ve reduced the debts owed by the Cabildo. When I arrived, our debt was €54 million. Now it’s €27 million. We’ve achieved all this in the midst of a crisis. I’m not saying it’s the miracle of the loaves and fishes, but I´m very satisfied. 12

| April 2015 | The Gazette

“An

lection isn’t a

 What about failures? Unemployment is

popularity contest.”

still very high on the island.

The figures are high, but on Lanzarote there is a lot of undeclared work going on which isn’t reflected in the official figures. If the statistics were correct I think we´d be seeing far worse social problems than we are. We’re working with local business organisations to ensure that employment is above board.

 What has Lanzarote learnt from the oil drilling issue? First, we discovered that Canarians are absolutely unwilling to risk their future. Secondly, as a politician, who supported the “Oil No, Renewables Yes” slogan, I’ll put my hand up and admit that we haven’t done as much as we should have to promote renewable energies. That is going to change, as we plan to invest millions of Euros in wind and solar facilities, continueconverting public buildings to renewable energies and supporting the local Councils in similar projects.

 The objections of Canarians to oil drilling were ignored by Madrid. Does that mean democracy failed in this case? No. Even if oil had been discovered, I think the PP will suffer such a blow in the forthcoming elections that it would have discouraged them, as well as acting as a lesson to other parties. The Socialists, for example, have always respected Canarian opposition to oil drilling.

 The forthcoming elections promise to be extremely unpredictable. Are you willing to make any forecasts? (Shows sheaf of documents) I’ve just received this report on poll results, but it’s confidential. What I will say is that all indications show that CC will be winning the force in the Cabildo and in the Canarian Government.

 All Spain is talking about the need for political renewal after prominent national corruption cases and the rise of parties such as Podemos. Will Lanzarote reflect this trend? I think that on Lanzarote we’ve already seen big corruption cases, and we’ve already had our Podemos. For that reason we seem to be vaccinated against the tide of alternatives that is sweeping Spain.

 Is it right that European residents on Lanzarote are denied the right to vote in the Cabildo elections? I’d fervently love to see foreign residents get the right to vote in Cabildo and Canarian Government elections, but changing this is beyond the Cabildo’s powers.

 You were named one of “10 Sexiest Male Politicians in Spain”. Were you flattered? (Pulls face) Ugh! I’m a single man without children, but as far as I’m concerned that just gives me more time to dedicate to my job.

 You’ve been accused of arrogance and self-importance by opponents. How do you respond to criticisms of your personality? I admit that I can be forceful, and that results from the fact that I have a deep conviction in the things I believe in. Ask around, talk to the team here in the Cabildo and further afield, and you’ll hear a different story. The people didn’t vote for my nice character, though – the elections aren’t a popularity contest.

 Has your personal life changed since you became President? Yes, it’s more difficult in some ways. People recognise me and stop me, but I can’t complain. I feel honoured and privileged to have the job I have.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 13

P S ower

ystem waste disposal to tourism, that require islandwide administration.

n The Ayuntamientos The only level of government that EU foreign residents in Spain are entitled to vote for, the Ayuntamientos are local Town Halls ruled by elected councils. As well as taking care of the day-to-day functioning of the municipality, the Ayuntamientos have a number of departments dealing with taxes, economy, planning, tourism, agriculture, sport, culture, social affairs and so forth.

n Voting

Next month will see the Canarian, Cabildo and municipal elections on Lanzarote. But before you vote, here’s a top-down guide to the institutions that govern the islands. n The National Government Based in Madrid, Spain´s government distributes public funds to all the autonomous communities and is responsible for national laws, foreign policy, and a wide range of other areas. Currently ruled by a majority Partido Popular government, general elections are planned for the end of this year.

n Canarian Government The Canary Islands became an autonomous community in 1982, and like other Spanish regions, has a Government and a parliament responsible for

executive and judicial matters. The Coalición Canaria has been the dominant party in both chambers since 1993, ruling in pacts with the Socialists and the PP. The Canarian Government levies taxes, issues laws and deals with activities that span the seven islands.

n The Cabildos Unique to the Canaries and the Balearics (where they are called Consells), these island governments are concerned with planning at an island level and a wide range of activities, from

Voting will take place on May 22nd – Sundays are the traditional voting day in Spain; and polling booths are normally located in schools or other public buildings. As opposed to the “first-past-the-post” system in the UK, Spain operates a system of proportional representation. What this means is that each party presents a list of candidates and, after the election, council seats are allocated according to the amount of votes received. For example, in 2011 in Yaiza, 250 votes were enough to gain a council seat. Therefore, if a party won 1,000 votes, the first four candidates on their list would become councillors. This system means that it is often difficult for parties to win a clear majority of over half the seats. As a result, alliances and pacts are negotiated to establish a ruling group that can be guaranteed a working majority allowing legislation to be passed. One drawback is that these pacts are often unstable, meaning that citizens may see many changes in the composition of the council.

Competitive prices, quality & speed • Litho Printing • Personalised Stationery & Office Supplies • Graphic Design • Photocopying, Binding, Laminating etc.

Other Services: • Personalised print & Embroidery: caps, T-shirts, pens, diaries… • Design and hosting of web pages • Gift promotions • Rubber/data stamps Industrial Zone Playa Honda Road Arrecife-Yaiza, 3.6km Tel. 928 823400/01 Fax 928 821501 info@imprentaminerva.com www.imprentaminerva.com

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Puerto Carmen Modernises del

Tias Ayuntamiento is investing €15 million to renew the interior of Puerto del Carmen and improve towns and villages. ancho Hernández became Tias Mayor in June 2011, breaking 28 years of Socialist rule. At that time the Ayuntamiento owed debts of €28 million, making it the fifth most indebted munipality in the Canaries. Suppliers no longer trusted the council and residents faced increasing financial pressures. Three years later, the Canarian auditing body revealed that Tías had paid off over half its debt and was fully solvent; that suppliers are paid within 40 days and that residents enjoyed a financial situation above the Canarian average. Tias has also lowered waste disposal and construction taxes, and was recently named by the University of King Juan Carlos as the most transparent public institution in Las Palmas province. This fiscal reform has tempted BBVA and Santander Banks to support a new investment plan, after a tender undertaken by Economy Councillor Ramón Melian. Tías now destines more public money to public works than any other council on Lanzarote. “Our aim is to improve the public areas of the villages, the centre of Tías and of Puerto del Carmen,” says Mayor Pancho Hernández, “They have spent too many years in a terrible state, and these works will also create new Jobs and dynamise the economy.”

The planned eco-boulevard

Puerto del Carmen plans In Puerto del Carmen, the football ground at la Tiñosa and tennis courts on C/Alemania will be improved. The Munipal Works Plan will see the re-tarmaccing of 80 streets in Puerto del Carmen in addition to 70 larger roads throughout the municipality. In Puerto del Carmen, these works will take place in May and June so as not to adversely affect tourism. Calles Nasa, Princesa Ico and Pedro Barba in PDC will be modernised and Puerto del Carmen will welcome its first eco-boulevard in Calle Reina Sofía. These changes will ensure that Puerto del Carmen will continue as Lanzarote´s premier holiday resort as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Tías plans 16 better, safer children’s play areas are planned for the municipality of Tías, and a million euro investment is being finalised for sporting facilities in the capital. Tias sports centre will see new installations, and it is envisaged that the swimming pool will also open soon. Under Sports Councillor Kiko Aparicio, Tías is seeing more, better sporting facilities all the time. Tías will also see its central avenue improved, with new pavements and tarmac, in the first months of this year. The commercial centre of the town will be made more attractive, with terraces, walkways and greenery.

The Mayor of Tías, Pancho Hernández, with the Deputy Mayor, Planning Councillor and Tax Councillor presenting the works plans.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 15

Your

ote ounts V C Pancho Hernández (PP), Mayor of TÍas

The municipal elections on 24th May are the only chance foreign residents from EU countries will get to vote for their local council. This year, the elections promise to be more unpredictable than ever. The Spanish proportional representation (PR) system also means that your vote can really matter, as a handful of votes can often tip the balance of a council.

owever, the Spanish system remains little known to many incomers, so this month we present a brief guide to the main parties involved and the seven Town Halls on Lanzarote. Next month we´ll be asking some of the the prime candidates why you should vote for them.

n NC (Nueva Canarias) A more recent, centre-left nationalist grouping, the NC are hoping to reinforce their presence on Lanzarote.

Smaller parties Spain´s PR system means that smaller parties have a good chance of winning council seats. They can then negotiate pacts to exercise limited power.

The Parties

The Nationalists

The Big Two

Canarian independence is not seriously proposed by any of the main Canarian nationalist parties, who instead seek local control and increased Canarian representation at national level.

This year´s great unknown, Podemos is currently topping national voting polls. In the local elections, regional groups will be presenting themselves under the Podemos banner.

n CC (Coalición Canaria)

Left-wing ecological Canarian party.

The PP and PSOE have taken turns ruling Spain since 1982. Both are powerful national parties with hundreds of thousands of members and a strong regional presence. However, there has been a strong recent backlash against the two-party system.

n Partido Popular (PP) The PP are, roughly, equivalent to the Conservatives in the UK and were the most voted party on Lanzarote in 2011. However, this year they will surely be hoping that the slow national recovery and, in particular, the divisive oil drilling issue, will not have damaged their popularity too much.

n Socialists (PSOE) A centre-left party equivalent to Labour in the UK, the Socialists were punished for spiralling unemployment and economic woe in 2011. Nevertheless, they are historically strong on Lanzarote and will be hoping that the electorate have forgiven them. 16

| April 2015 | The Gazette

The CC has governed the Canary Islands since 1993, and is a centre-right, business friendly party. Despite an internal crisis that has opened breaches throughout the islands, they will remain strong in 2015.

n PIL (Partido Independientes de Lanzarote) The only party that exclusively represents Lanzarote, Dimas Martín´s PIL transformed island politics in the 1980s, and still has a faithful support base. However, there is no denying that a long chain of corruption scandals and defections have seriously weakened the party.

n Podemos

n Alternativa Ciudadana n IU (Izquierda Unida) Communist/green alliance that was the third most-voted national party in Spain in 2011.

n San Borondón Tias-based neighbourhood assembly which will also be standing in Yaiza and Arrecife this year.

n PVP (Partido Vecinal para el Progreso) Manolo Rodriguez’s efforts on behalf of Playa Honda were rewarded with three seats in 2011, and he´ll be hoping to improve on that in San Bartolomé municipality this year.

The Councils n Tías Tias was ruled by the Socialists until 2011, when Pancho Hernández (PP) won the majority of votes and formed a ruling group with the support of the small local San Borondón party. Tias, the home to the majority of British and Irish residents on Lanzarote, is remarkable for its relative lack of

councillor, until Roger Deign (PP) stepped down earlier this year. This May, Betancort will be hoping to capitalise on continued disillusion with the national parties and the PIL´s continued malaise to win an absolute majority.

Although the PP won most votes in 2011, a subsequent pact between the Socialists and CC froze them out of power. This year, all bets are off in a contest which will almost certainly result in frantic pact-seeking.

n Yaiza

n San Bartolomé

After 2011, Mayor Gladys Acuña was the only PIL Mayor on Lanzarote, but she has recently left the party with her ruling group to form Unidos por Yaiza

A Socialist stronghold until recently, San Bartolomé is ruled by Socialist Mayor Maria Dolores Corujo, in alliance with the CC. In the last election, the success

Oswaldo Betancort (CC), Mayor of Teguise

support for Canarian nationalists. This year is likely to see another battle between the PP and the Socialists, with the smaller parties hoping to exercise power in pacts.

n Teguise Ruled by a CC/Socialist pact and headed by energetic young Mayor Oswaldo Betancort (CC), Teguise is also the historical heartland of the PIL. It was also the only municipality with a British

Manolo Rodriguez (PVP), Independent Councillor for San Bartolomé

Gladys Acuña (PIL), Mayor of Yaiza

– a move which seems the most probable way to ensure some continuity of government. Popular with locals, Acuña still faces opposition from the CC and NC; and in Yaiza, where 250 votes secures a council seat, anything could still happen.

n Arrecife The capital is Lanzarote´s most populous municipality, and always plays a key role in the way alliances are decided at island level.

of Manolo Rodriguez’s PVP was one of the most notable success stories for grass roots groups.

n Tinajo and Haría Lanzarote´s most sparsely populated municipalities have been ruled by majority CC councils for years, and despite ructions within that party which may see Haría Mayor José Torres Stinga deselected, there seems little reason to believe much will change this year.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 17

| April 2015 | The Gazette

ADVERTORIAL

Yaiza looks forward to the future

After 40 years, the Ayuntamiento of Yaiza now has a new General Regulation Plan, approved in December, which will meet the demands of residents and encourage investment. The Plan brings the overall regulation of Yaiza up to date with a model that offers solutions to the planning problems that many residents have faced throughout the south of Lanzarote, and opens new doors for social and economic development of the municipality, including job creation, attention to the various economic sectors, infrastructure projects and educational, sporting, touristic and commercial provisions. The ruling group presided over by Gladys Acuña believes that the new plan, valid since December, will consolidate Yaiza´s development, improve overall welfare for residents and reinforce Playa Blanca as a competitive tourist destination. The approval of the Plan permits the construction of a new school in Playa Blanca to go ahead, after the demand of the council for such a Project and the granting of land to realise it. This has permitted the Canarian Government to assign 1.9 million Euros to tackle this project in 2015.

Gladys Acuña, Mayor of Yaiza

More reasons to smile in 2015 Playa Blanca has secured a €43.7 million investment for its new port extension. “The project has arisen thanks to a consensus between institutions after 20 years of political conflict,” said Mayor Gladys Acuña, summing up the welcome outcome of an agreement between the Canarian Government, Lanzarote´s Cabildo and the Ayuntamiento of Yaiza, which has guaranteed the multi-million sum allowing the works to be completed. The new port will not only increase safety for the Fuerteventura ferries and provide protected mooring for leisure and commercial craft, but will also allow cruise liners of up to 300 metres in length to dock at Playa Blanca. Playa Blanca has also opened its new Tourist Office, investing €50,000 of its own funds. This initiative by the local council has resulted in a comfortable, attractive office on Calle Varadero, which will act as a tourist information point and also an advice centre for professionals in

the sector. The council has also invested in digital equipment with information in various languages that will make life easier and more efficient for tourists with queries. Among other improvements, Calle Varadero has seen the broadening of pavements, the lowering of kerbs and the installation of ramps and handrails. This means that this busy central thoroughfare is now much more welcoming and comfortable for disabled people, the elderly and parents with prams or pushchairs. Finally, the council led by Gladys Acuña has launched a project to improve public lighting in the various villages in the municipality of Yaiza, aimed at improving visibility and increasing energy efficiency by replacing worn fittings and low-output lights. This, as well as other improvements, has been made possible thanks to the positive reforms in public spending that have been carried out in this legislative term – another reason to look to the future with optimism.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 19

mackdown

LANZAROTE

Canarian wrestling is the most famous of the sports that are only found on these islands, and still has a fervent and dedicated fan base, with matches and tournaments taking place on all seven islands. We talk to one of the island’s wrestlers from the “Golden Age.” and look at a new tourist initiative that wants to introduce tourists to this fascinating sport.

The Rules lthough Canarian wrestling has some similarities to other styles such as Cumberland wrestling or Sumo, it is also very much its own sport. It is also one of the oldest regulated wrestling forms in the world, with rules being drawn up in 1872. The wrestlers meet in a large, sand-covered circle known as a terrero, and a bout starts as the two fighters grasp each other, locking onto their opponent’s shorts. Once the referee signals the start of the bout, the wrestlers employ various techniques known as mañas to unbalance each other. These include grasps, blocks and deflections. The ultimate aim is to force your opponent to touch the ground with any part of his body apart from the feet, and if you manage to do this twice, you win the bout.

Some chicken! El Pollito de la Frontera

The Wrestlers

he famous wrestlers of the past are still well known in Canarian history. Before the arrival of a television in every house and the accompanying flood of football and basketball. The sport was huge, drawing large crowds to the major tournaments. The best wrestlers are often given the name “Pollo”, meaning “rooster” in reference to another declining Canarian pastime, cockfighting. They compete in two main leagues. First of all there the puntales (mainstays) – 20

| April 2015 | The Gazette

the top-class wrestlers, who normally fight on the two largest islands of Gran Canaria and Tenerife. The second division is for destacados – “outstanding ones”, and these tournaments take place on all the islands. Despite fond memories of the “Golden Age”, many believe the greatest Canarian wrestler of all was Francisco Pérez – the legendary Pollito de la Frontera. This 6”5 man-mountain, who weighed 20 stone at the age of 13 and went on to tip the scales at over 24 stone, dominated the sport from the start of the 1990s until 2008. Born on the westernmost island of El Hierro, Pérez retired to Lanzarote, where he has become a trainer at the wrestling club in Tinajo. The celebrity of Golden Age wrestlers can also be seen in the fact that, when the

Lanzarote-based film One Million Years BC came out, the most recognisable figure to islanders was not Raquel Welch, but the famous Pollo de Arrecife, a wrestler who played the part of a caveman.

Tourist Appeal lthough exhibition bouts can sometimes be seen at markets and fairs, tourists have rarely had the chance to attend a real Canarian wrestling tournament – until now, that is… Paco Flores recently set up the website canarianwrestling.com to promote the weekly trips he organises to various terreros in the island. The excursions usually take place on Friday nights, and visitors will not only see an entire tournament and enjoy refreshments, but they’ll also have the finer points of the sport explained to them.

e h T

eteran

DOMINGO CALERO RODRÍGUEZ

omingo Calero Rodríguez may be 72 years old, but the man known Domingo in his prime as El Pollo de La Asomada still cuts an imposing figure – well over six feet and weighing over 15 stone, few would still fancy their chances of flooring him. Domingo’s stature is only matched by his modesty. As we talk he continually says that he was “nothing special”, and that other wrestlers deserve the attention more than he does, specifically naming Manolo Cabrera, El Pollo de Tias. “I wanted to be a wrestler since I was a child,” he smiles. “In those days they were like Cristiano Ronaldo is to youngsters now. I remember travelling to Arrecife and seeing the famous wrestler Matoso in a bar there. He was my idol – well-dressed, elegant and a great fighter.” Domingo began wrestling informally with his friends, later training and winning the name of Pollo de La Asomada. His most memorable tournament occurred in November 1966, when he defeated the great local fighters Urbano Rojas and Mencara one after the other in an all-island tournament that was watched by over 3,000 Domingo says that agility is the most important spectators. A newspaper report that can still be element for a Canarian wrestler, and stresses that found online states that “The La Asomada fighter the sport is “all about technique.” But he also floored Urbano when he least expected it - to the adds that “If you have the technique, size comes delirium of his supporters, who carried him away in handy too.” on their shoulders.” For Domingo, wrestling was a powerful source

“

It was an honour to be a wrestler, to be admired for your achievements.

”

of pride - “It was an honour to be a wrestler, to be admired for your achievements,” he says. He also stresses the courtesy of the sport, where opponents always shake hands before fighting and the winner always helps the loser up from the floor. “There is nobility in it,” the old fighter smiles.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 21

Could

2015

see a

Who’ll be smiling after May 7th?

A British exit from the EU (“Brexit”) remains unlikely, but recent statements by UKIP leader Nigel Farage have increased the chances that Britain could see a referendum on the issue before Christmas. igel Farage recently stated that he would consider supporting David Cameron in a coalition government after May´s general election on the condition that a referendum on continued British membership of the European Union be held this year. “The terms of my deal with the Tories would be very precise and simple.” Farage told the

Sunday Telegraph, “I want a full and fair referendum to be held in 2015 to allow Britons to vote on being in or out of the European Union.” Farage added that the referendum should only be open to British passport holders, although he did not mention whether those living abroad would also have the right to vote. Although UKIP are currently predicted to win

ubscribe to

The

azette

The Canary Islands & Spain 2€ per month - Total 24€ per year

Brexit? between two to six seats, Farage believes they will have MPS “in double digits” after the election, which may see them acting as “Kingmakers” to a Conservative party without a working majority. George Osborne immediately said that the idea of a deal with UKIP was “complete nonsense”, but the Conservatives have so far avoided formally ruling out a deal with UKIP. Tory MP and ex-attorney general Dominic Grieve warned against a possible Brexit, saying that without membership “some 2 million UK citizens working in EU countries would find themselves becoming illegal immigrants overnight.” The passionately pro-EU Grieve’s warning, however, could be regarded as scaremongering. The experiences of Norway and Switzerland show that agreements can be reached ensuring the rights of citizens abroad. More practically, the prospect of a million British residents in Spain suddenly becoming “illegal” overnight is unthinkable, both for the Spanish and British governments. Nevertheless, a British exit from the EU would be unprecedented – an event that would shake the European institution to its foundations, and the possibility that the EU may threaten reprisals to discourage such an occurrence also exists. This is especially true given that one of the main objections of UKIP to the EU is the freedom of movement clause that has seen hundreds of thousands of Eastern European workers arrive in the UK in recent years. Any restrictions to freedom of movement laws would almost certainly mean similar restrictions being applied to British immigrants to other countries.

Delivered to your door every month from

€2

The Rest of Europe 8€ per month - Total 96€ per year

For Visa or cash payments please contact the office directly on:

+34 928 511 515 - classified@gazettelive.com Post details to: PRETINSA QUALITY S.L. Carretera Macher - Pto. Del Carmen No.24, 35571 Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain 22

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Should I my

Unlock

Pension?

Changes that impact on you? From the 6th April 2015 the UK Government are implementing the biggest changes to pension legislation in decades, possibly ever. You may have seen the adverts or read in the UK press about the ďŹ&#x201A;exibility and freedom afforded to your pension, allowing you to possibly take your entire fund as a lump sum. Sounds great that Governments now believe you are old enough and wise enough to do whatever you like with your pension fund. Before you all rush to get your hands on your pension fund there are some things that you should consider.

1. How much will it cost you in tax? 2. What should you do with the proceeds and how can you reduce future taxes? 3. Is your fund going to be sufficient to allow you to have the retirement youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always planned for?

Logic Financial Consultants have over 24 years experience providing financial advice in the UK, 8 years on mainland Spain and over 4 years on Lanzarote. As a result they are perfectly placed to advise you on what works best for you. Within an hour, in a friendly, informal meeting that is absolutely free of charge with no obligation, you can get clear answers to all your questions and cut through the paperwork and confusion.

Ask the Expert Call today to make an appointment George Whitby on 965 020 444 or Karen Kell: 928 832 148/722 732 102 Email: info@logicfc.com - www.logicfinancialconsultants.com Logic Financial Consultants is a trading style of Tourbillon Limited. Tourbillon Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar), Licence Number FSC1118B. Registered Address: 3/1A Parliament Lane, PO Box 453 Gibraltar The Gazette | April 2015 | 23

This May’s Lanzarote Ironman is the latest chapter in a story that began 37 years, on another warm and beautiful volcanic island in the middle of a crystal ocean. he Ironman race arose from an argument. In 1977, at the awards ceremony of a Hawaiian long distance relay race, runners got into a debate with members of a local swimming club as to which of the sportsmen were the fittest overall. Commander John Collins, an American endurance athlete, pointed out that the legendary cyclist Eddie Merckx had recently been shown to have the greatest oxygen uptake rate of any athlete ever measured and suggested that cyclists may be fitter than both runners or swimmers. To settle the argument the decision was made to combine three Hawaiian endurance events – a 2.4 mile swim; a 112 mile cycle race and the Honolulu Marathon. The 15 participants were given a three page leaflet of information, which finished with the statement "Swim 2.4 miles! Bike 112 miles! Run 26.2 miles! Brag for the rest of your life." Commander Collins said “Whoever finishes first, we’ll call him the Iron Man”, and on February 18th 1978 15 athletes set off to tackle the unimaginable and make history. 12 completed the course, with Gordon Haller of the US Navy becoming the first ever Iron Man.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE SERVICES • 2 hour response guaranteed • all trades covered by professionals

T. 0034 928 944 789 E. info@spectra247.com Office. Calle Correillo 87, Playa Blanca.

SUPERIOR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICE Whether your property is rented commercially or is a private family home, we can offer the same high standards 24 hours a day, 364 days of the year

24 HOUR HELP LINE 928 944 789

1 Villa Management. 1 Villa Cleaning. 1 Key Holding. 1 Swimming Pool and Hot Tub Cleaning. 1 Maintenance. 1 24 Hour 365 Day Service. 1 Gardening 1 Security Checks 1 Marketing and Bookings 1 Equipment Hire

Family business established for over 15 years on Lanzarote • Property Management, Maintenance, Sales, Long term and short term rentals

| April 2015 | The Gazette

The runner up, John Dunbar, may have won but his support team ran out of water during the marathon stage, and decided to give him beer instead. The event continued for a couple of years with just a handful of participants, but an article in the influential Sports Illustrated magazine raised awareness. In 1982, one of the first Iron Women, Julie Moss, led the race until she collapsed a few feet from the finish line but managed to stagger and finally crawl on her hands and knees, utterly exhausted, to the finish line. Footage of this event was shown around the world,

and the Ironman soon became famous as a challenge where completing the course was as important as winning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a competition against your own physical limits as much as against other contestants. Soon, Ironman events were popping up all over the world, official and non-official, and the shorter triathlon discipline became a recognized event in the athletics world, receiving the ultimate recognition when it was included in the 1200 Olympics at Sydney.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 25

By George! t George was born in Palestine some time between 275 and 285 AD. After his Christian parents died in his teens, George went to Nicomedia in Greece to present himself as a soldier in the service of the Emperor Diocletian. As George was the son of a renowned warrior, Gerontius, he was eagerly accepted and rose to the rank of Tribune by his late 20s. However, in 303 AD, Diocletian ordered that all Christian soldiers be arrested. George stood firm and refused to recognise the Roman gods. George was

April 23rd is St George’s Day, and on Lanzarote it won’t just be the English who are celebrating their patron saint. They’ll be raising their glasses alongside Catalans, Aragonese, Bulgarians, Romanians, Portuguese, Ukrainians, Russians and many other nationalities who venerate the ancient dragon slayer. his travels, slays the beast and rescues the Princess. George became increasingly venerated over the centuries, and is not just a Christian saint, but also a figure recognised in Islamic culture. In England he is first mentioned in the Middle Ages, and finally dislodged Edward the Confessor as the nation´s patron saint in 1552. Although Crusaders often wore the red cross on a white background, and frequently invoked St George “the warrior Saint” in their battles, it was not until later that the cross became associated with St George. St George´s warrior reputation is part of his appeal. In Shakespeare´s play Henry V famously shouts “ Cry God for Harry, England and St George!” before the battle of Agincourt, but St George is also the battle cry of Portuguese soldiers and many other armed forces. So this April 23rd, lift a glass or three to St George. But be careful - if you start seeing dragons, it´s time to get a taxi.

tortured on a wheel of swords before being decapitated on 23rd April, 303 AD. His body was returned to Palestine, where a shrine was built. Dragons, of course, don´t exist, and it is thought that the story of George slaying the dragon may have arisen from a crocodile that had made its nest near a water source. Villagers would sacrifice a sheep to the beast if they had one, and a maiden if they were out of sheep. One day the only maiden left was the Princess. However, George turns up on

F E L I C I T A S

H O F A C K E R

R E C H T S A N W Ä L T I N

L A W Y E R

L I C E N S E D B Y T H E B A R A S S O C I AT I O N S O F LANZAROTE AND SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN E S TA B L I S H E D I N L A N Z A R O T E S I N C E 1 9 9 7

ALL

AREAS

CIVIL

L AW,

especially

H O U S E P U R C H A S E , I N H E R I TA N C E ( D I S P U T E ) , WILLS, ALL KINDS OF CONTRACTS, A S S I S TA N C E W I T H L O C A L A U T H O R I T I E S C / . T

E S P E R A N Z A L

| April 2015 | The Gazette

1 , 8

1 1

F 3

E 5

3 5 . 5 0 0

A R R E C I F E

D E

L A N Z A R O T E F

I S L A S 8

C A N A R I A S 0

oung reporters When fourth year pupils at the Santa Maria de los Volcanes Nazaret school in Arrecife started a journalism project called Lanzarote Today, teacher Cristina Aribe asked Gazette editor Shaun Addison to give a talk.

The results of the project were impressive - a series of excellent short pieces dealing with various issues. Two of the best articles are reprinted here, followed by the Gazette’s comments.

The trade that doesn’t decay By Eduardo Bryant, Paula Aguilar and Teresa Die rugs affect all ages and all social classes, and affect the image of our island. Lots of organisations help these addicts, but it isn´t enough to stop the problem. We´re not just talking about the image of our island, but also the health of those who live here. Lanzarote is a touristic island. The main reasons tourists choose to come here are the exotic places, the good weather and the quiet environment. Drug addicts give a bad image of our island and affect the lives of our people. A number of organisations have realised that this is a real problem that needs to be dealt with. One of the most important associations is Calor y Café, directed by a nun called Sor Ana, which helps homeless people in Arrecife. In the first year, Sor Ana helped more than 57 people. 60% of these individuals show some kind of addiction (to drugs, alcohol or gambling). Sor Ana gives them clothes and food, provides medical appointments and helps them to

come off drugs. Another organisation is UAD (the Unit for Attention to Drug Addiction). We spoke to a nurse, Emilio González Suarez, who works with the drug addicts. “In 28 years of existence we have opened more than 6,000 medical files”, says Emilio. He told us that, while not too many affected people visit this centre, the number is increasing “Sometimes their families pressure them into coming, sometimes it is voluntary and sometimes they are ordered to attend by law.” When a drug

Make memories to last a lifetime on your next holiday - book your Premier Holidays Villa TODAY!

l No Upfront Fee l No Exclusive Agreement l Online Booking Management Service

Villa Owners!! List With Us On Our Brand New Website (Coming Soon - Watch This Space!)

Chat With Us on Livechat at www.premier-holidays.com www.premier-holidays.com FREEPHONE 0800 047 0400 info@premier-holidays.com 28

| April 2015 | The Gazette

l Knowledgeable Staff Based In Lanzarote

addict presents themselves for admittance in the UAD, certain physical and psychological conditions must be met. These are determined by a therapeutic team that assesses each patient. The UAD offers a team with experts from various fields, allowing them to address the problems of any addict. People believe this problem has to be addressed because this is a tourist island, and it gives a bad image. They ask for more organisations and more financial help from the institutions. There are many campaigns for safe sex and alcohol consumption, but there should also be drug campaigns aimed at the young. Another problem is that addicts sometimes don´t want the help that is offered. They like their lives of begging, they like drugs, and they are scared of changing their lives. At the age of fourteen many youngsters start smoking tobacco and cannabis, but this can lead to a life of cocaine and hallucinogens. If we don´t want this kind of life for our children we need to raise awareness of the consequences of consuming drugs. It is our duty to improve the situation on the island, and it is difficult. But not impossible. Comment : A good summary of a universal problem that also affects Lanzarote. Sources and quotes are used well, and the team didn´t allow a setback (Sor Ana was unavailable for interview) to knock them off course.

oung reporters

Raining cats and dogs on the “Camel Island” By Inés Fernandez and Hector Martín

s we all know, Lanzarote is known for it´s warm and sunny weather lasting all year long, which it shares with the other islands of the Canarian archipelago. But this year, it all turned out differently… All year round the Canary Islands receive warmth and sunshine, but this year the State Agency of Meteorology has verified that January 2015 has been the coldest winter month in the last nine years. This is shocking news, as people from the islands are not used to such cold weather and are not prepared for a spell of weather like this one. This archipelago is known for its subtropical climate, and this is the big reason why tourists are willing to come here. When foreign tourists visit this small paradise they have in their mind beautiful images of beaches and lying in the sand

all day long. And this has been the case until recently, when a cold wave has hit every single island, which makes tourists disappointed about what their holiday was going to be like. If we look closer, on the island, we can see how people in the streets are covered in scarves, jackets and even winter hats to try and avoid the cold invading their bodies. But this fact also extends to their houses, where the lack of heaters and thick walls mean that it is difficult to warm up their homes. Although it is hard to believe, the average temperature on Lanzarote is 22 degrees Celsius, but this winter the thermometer has stayed around 15.5 degrees, In addition, 24 litres of rain per square metre has been recorded. In conclusion we all (locals and residents) hope that this unexpected weather goes away as soon as possible, allowing the sun that naturally belongs to the Canaries to arrive. Comment : An informative factual summary of an issue that everyone has been talking about recently. The Gazette would like to thank Madre Cristina and the teachers and children of Santa Maria de los Volcanes Nazaret for involving us in this project. It was a difficult task to choose two pieces for publication from so many strong candidates. We´d also love to get involved in any similar projects, from any school, in the future.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 29

ADVERTORIAL

Santiago Lleó at All Law in Costa Teguise rounds up some recent legal developments of interest to expats on Lanzarote.

Spanish inheritance tax:

Discrimination against non-residents comes to an end. From 1st January 2015, new inheritance tax laws have taken effect, streamlining inheritance and gift tax liabilities for EU and EEA nationals who are non-residents of Spain and bringing them into line with a recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling. On 3 September 2014, the ECJ held that Spain was not acting in the spirit of the European Union by charging different rates of inheritance tax for residents and non-residents. Each of Spain’s autonomous communities has the power to set its own inheritance tax rates and reductions. However under the old system these reductions were non-applicable

when the successor or the donee were nonresidents in Spain. The Canary Islands Region has its own set of tax reductions related to Inheritance tax and Gift tax. These reductions now also apply to nonresidents who inherit, or receive as a gift, real estate or any other assets situated in the Canary Islands, and to non-residents who inherit, or receive as a gift, assets from a resident of the Canary Islands. We strongly recommend seeking legal advice before granting a will in Spain; before making or receiving a gift in Spain and before accepting an inheritance in Spain, in order to get maximum benefits from the existing

COURT FEES ABOLISHED FOR INDIVIDUALS. From 1st March 2015, individuals no longer have to pay court fees in order to initiate proceedings in Spanish courts. In 2012, new legislation obliged payment of a Court fee in order to file demands or appeals, restricting access to justice for many citizens. Now, the goverment has amended the controversial measure in respect to individuals. Companies and other entities will continue to be obliged to pay the court fee.

tax reductions. The ECJ judgement also allows those who paid taxes under the old legislation to initiate a process reclaiming sums paid in excess, alleging the discrimination that the ECJ recognised, and providing that the limitation period of four years has not elapsed. We believe that claims could also succeed in respect to payments not covered by the limitation period. In particular, EU and EEA resident individuals who paid inheritance or gift tax in the past four years in Spain should seek professional advice for reviewing their tax assessments and analysing the possibility of claiming a tax refund.

PLANNING PROPOSALS FOR TIAS. On the 23rd February 2015 saw official publication of the initial approval by Tias Ayuntamiento of the proposed new planning regulations for the municipality. These proposals are available for the general public to see in the board room of Tias Ayuntamiento and citizens may file objections anytime before the 10th April 2015.

FINAL APPROVAL OF THE PLANNING REGULATIONS FOR TEGUISE. The New Planning Regulations for Teguise were published on the 5th March 2015. Appeals may be lodged before the 6th May 2015, in front of the High Court of Justice of the Canary Islands.

ALL LAW

Abogados ~ Solicitors ~ Rechtsanwälte

SANTIAGO LLEÓ 1 1 1 1 1 1

Conveyancing Litigation Foreign Investment Inheritance Law Planning and Public Law Corporate and Commercial Law

Lanzarote - Avda. Islas Canarias, C.C. Maretas local 32A - 35508 - Costa Teguise, Lanzarote - Phone: 928 826 691 Madrid - Paseo de la Castellana, 140, 10D - 28046 - Madrid - Phone: 915 780 560 30

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Since 1989 in Lanzarote Since 2003 in Madrid And now in Costa Teguise

santiagolleo@all-law.es www.all-law.es/en/lanzarote-office/

PRoundabout island lanned

At the start of April a new tourist initiative will be launched to promote Lanzarote as Europe´s No 1 destination for roundabout lovers. Among the proposals is a plan to turn the planned airport extension into a massive roundabout for aeroplanes. lane no matter where we want to exit – unless of course we´re using the inside lane of the roundabout to overtake. Roundabouts are a vibrant meeting-place for different cultures.”

Airport roundabout

Aeroplanes will be able to enjoy roundabout as soon as they land. ablo Rotunda, who hopes to be appointed as the island’s first Roundabouts Councillor, is hugely enthusiastic about the scheme. “I think it´s obvious that here on Lanzarote we love roundabouts,” he told the Gazette, “And we want to share that love with those who visit us.” “Motorists have complained about the endless roadworks on the Arrecife ring road,” continued Rotunda, “But when they see the spanking new roundabouts, we´re certain that all will be forgiven.”

“But we also want to promote our existing roundabouts,” says the prospective Councillor, “The Playa Honda double roundabout, for example, has long been a hair-raising whiteknuckle ride for resident motorists, but we´d like tourists to enjoy this thrilling experience, too.” “Roundabouts are a place where visitors from other countries can get to experience some of our local customs at first hand. On Lanzarote we´re famous for crawling around in the outside

Project leaders also want tourists to enjoy Lanzarote´s roundabouts as soon as they land. “Instead of a simple runway extension at the airport, we plan to build a massive offshore roundabout connecting four different runways. That way, every new arrival on Lanzarote will be able to enjoy taxiing around in circles before their holiday even starts.” The ultimate aim of the project is to turn Lanzarote into one big roundabout, with a three-lane road encircling the entire island. “That way, if you miss your turning, you´ll get to enjoy all our amazing coastal landscapes once again,” says Pablo Rotunda. However, the project has been opposed by the pressure group Estamos Mareados (We´re Dizzy). Their spokesman, Primero de Abril, told the Gazette. “We love Lanzarote´s roundabout heritage as much as anyone, but we also feel there are disadvantages as well as advantages. It´s swings and roundabouts, basically,” he says, “But mostly roundabouts.”

The Gazette | April 2015 | 31

xpress your Do you look as fabulous as Gazette Editor Shaun Addison and Designer Carla Sylvester? Send us your selfie and prove it!

famous “duckface” pout. Selfies can include as many people and animals as you like, as long as the person who took the photo is in it. You can also use selfie accessories, such as filters or apps that make your photo look like a classic polaroid or moody black and white art shot, and if you have a selfie stick you´ll be able to get height, distance and new angles. Point and shoot cameras offer self-timers and a variety of shooting modes you can experiment with. What we´re really interested in is Lanzarote selfies – shots that sum up the joy of living on this island. Whether you want to pose in front of spectacular scenery, share a shot with a camel or just capture the happiness and freedom of a day on the beach is up to you. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to snap a Lanzarote selfie; send it to us at editorial@gazettelive.com, or Whatsapp it to 677647362; share on our Facebook page or just bring it into the office (address on pg 3) to be downloaded. All entries must be accompanied with your name, the words GAZETTE SELFIE and we’d also welcome a few words about the photo – where you took it, who’s in it etc. We´ll print the best entries in forthcoming issues, allowing you to keep a hard copy of your fabulous selfie forever! The prize winner will be announced in July.

WIN

2 nights for 2 at As a stunning holiday destination, Lanzarote has already featured in millions of selfies. But this spring, our Express Your Selfie competition means you can win your own 5-star holiday, and celebrate yourself and Lanzarote. owadays we take more photos than ever, but few of them ever end up being printed. Selfies, the staple of social media, are among the most here-today, gone-tomorrow forms of photography, so now´s the chance to express your selfie in print. We’ll also be giving a superb prize of TWO NIGHTS for TWO PEOPLE at Arrecife´s 5 Star,17-floor Gran

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Hotel, (subject to conditions) where you´ll be able to snap selfies in the highest building on Lanzarote. Don´t forget that there´s more to the art of the selfie than simply turning your phone, tablet or camera around and clicking. You need to take angles into account to avoid chopping off half your head; good lighting will stop you looking like a rabbit caught in the headlights, and a natural expression will avoid the

The Gazette | April 2015 | 33

ADVERTORIAL

Lanzarote

SKYRIDE

he 6D Cinema at Arrecife´s new marina has already proved a huge hit with its exciting range of virtual rides, but now the cinema offers an utterly unique and captivating experience. To fly around Lanzarote in real life you´d need to pay hundreds to charter a helicopter, but at 6D cinema you can do the same thing for just €10 (€5 for under-16s). You start at ground level on the marina before ascending and swooping over Arrecife and along the coast to the broad beaches of Puerto del Carmen. Then it´s round the cliffs in the south to Papagayo and Playa Blanca and a magnificent aerial view of the Salinas de Janubio. A hard right then brings us to Timanfaya, with its breathtaking volcanic craters, followed by an astounding glimpse of the wine fields of La Geria. Gliding across the sandy central plains of the island, we pause briefly at Lagomar and the castle overlooking Teguise before sweeping over the dramatic Famara clifftops. There´s even a plunge beneath the waves to meet a grumpy grouper, before you fly back down the coast via Costa Teguise and gently set down at the Marina once again.

| April 2015 | The Gazette

It isn’t often that you get to experience something that really deserves the word “awesome”, but the Lanzarote Skyride at the 6D Cinema in Arrecife Marina certainly fits the bill – a breathtaking, inspirational tour of the natural wonders of this amazing island.

As you enjoy the spectacular 11-minute ride, your seat tilts and moves to mirror the camera movements. And while other rides at the 6D cinema are designed to make you scream in sheer excitement, the Skyride is a much smoother experience, yet still totally immersive. The film was edited from six months of footage taken from a light aircraft and drone-mounted

cameras, allowing the viewer to swoop, glide, hover and get really close up to some of the magnificent sights that this island has to offer. When the Gazette visited with a thrill-crazy

14-year old, we first chose to career through tunnels and confront dinosaurs on the vertigo-inducing Lost World ride, but both adult and child agreed that the Lanzarote Skyride was something extra special – an experience that leaves you inspired rather than breathless. If you love Lanzarote, and if you want to see it from angles that you didn´t know were possible, a trip on the Lanzarote Skyride is an absolute must. And don´t forget that the 6D cinema still offers it´s brilliant virtual reality rides for just €5 a ticket. Ranging from white-knuckle road chases and roller coaster rides to a penguin ride for the younger ones, you´ll want to see them all!

Get

he annual opening of the island´s biggest waterpark in Costa Teguise is one of the most reliable signs that the summer bathing season is underway, and tourists and locals will flock to the slides to relax by the pool while their kids have the time of their lives, or to join in the fun themselves. Meanwhile, in the lagoons and off the beaches all over the island we´ll see athletes training for the Ironman and other races, while dedicated swimmers get into training for some of the distance events that the island also has to offer.

OPEN SATURDAY 28TH MARCH 10 - 18

The sun’s getting hotter, the days are getting longer and the heat is finally on. Which means that thousands of holidaymakers and plenty of residents will be wanting to cool down and get wet over the coming months.

Warmth also brings changes in the sea. It´s still relatively cool in April, only reaching it´s warmest temperatures in late summer and eraly Autumn, but it´s still far warmer than any water you´d find in Britain or Ireland, and indeed Lanzarote´s average sea temperatures in the depths of winter are higher than those in southern England in summer. If you can handle Skegness or Margate in August, you can handle anything Lanzarote has to offer. Last year, swimmers in April were able to see

immense shoals of tiny anchovies and sardines just off the shores of the island – an incredible sight and an unforgettable experience; and further offshore the tuna will be starting their migrations and dolphins and whales will pass by the island. But if waterparks and the sea are still a bit too bracing for you, you can also find heated swimming pools open to the public in hotels, as well as spectacular spas and hydrotherapy centres which will allow you to soak yourself in sheer comfort and emerge feeling reborn and renewed.

EASTER CAMP in PARQUE AVENTURA M March rch h 30th andd 31st 31 t April A il 1st 1 t , 2nd 2 d andd 3rd 3r 3d

928 592 128 Book now! Price/Day: 8€ Special Offer: 10% Discount for the children 13€€ who were in Activities + juice or fruit break from 8am to 1,30 pm Activities + juice or fruit break + lunch + afternoon snack from 8am to 5,30 pm

Camp 2014

Admission starting from 7,45 am

Costa Teguise – Avda. del Golf, 315 - www.aquaparklanzarote.es – aquapark_lanzarote@yahoo.es • Free WIFI Zone The Gazette | April 2015 | 35

n Yachting

n Surfing

With the arrival of Arrecife´s brand new Marina, Lanzarote now has three world-class leisure marinas where sleek craft jostle gently along the moorings as their masts gently sway in the alisio breeze. The marina town of Puerto Calero and Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca preceded Arrecife and host a number of yachting competitions every year, as well as forming an important base on Round-the-World or Trans-Atlantic races. But the marinas aren´t just for sailors. Each one is also a magnet for visitors who love to stroll, shop in the luxurious surroundings or take a coffee or a meal in one of the many top class cafes and restaurants. Marina life has its own rhythm and it´s one that you´ll soon slip into.

Lanzarote is world famous as a surfing destination, with swells that travel uninterrupted from the Arctic until they hit the northern coasts of the island. The beach at Famara is the place for starters, with a number of surf schools getting wannabe waveriders up and going. Once you´ve reached a certain level of proficiency the options increase enormously, and you can consider tackling the renowned break at San Juan, or the Slab and the daunting El Quemao (the Canary Pipe) at La Santa.

The underwater adventure of a lifetime 36

| April 2015 | The Gazette

n Windsurfing

Costa Teguise is the island Mecca for windsurfers, with great winds out to the sea off Las Cucharas. Everything is available, whether you´re an absolute beginner or a veteran. Other boarding activities such as kitesurfing, or the calm weather boardsailing can also be found around the island.

n Diving There are scuba diving clubs in all the island´s resorts, and all of them offer short courses where beginners can obtain basic PADI qualifications. For experienced divers, there is the option of night dives, wreck dives and some incredible underwater seascapes. The waters around Lanzarote are warm and offer wonderful visibility, as well as huge range of marine life ranging from angel sharks and electric rays to seahorses and spider crabs. If you prefer to dive light, snorkelling is also rewarding. The

Tel: +34 928 512 898 www.submarinesafaris.com

at sea lagoons at Playa Jablillo, Playa Chica and Playa Flamingo are safe, sheltered and packed with a glorious variety of colourful fishes. For the price of a decent pair of goggles and a snorkel, you can enter another world.

n Fishing A number of fishing boats put out from the ports and marinas all over Lanzarote and, depending on the season, they can hook into some very big game indeed. Gazette editor Shaun Addison recently joined Captain Pep and his crew on the Escualo, a boat operating from Puerto del Carmen, for a

Lanzarote is surrounded by water, and these glittering waters, constantly cleaned by Atlantic currents, have always been vital to the island. A strong fishing tradition has given way to an even stronger leisure sector offering something for everyone who wants to experience a life on (or under) the ocean wave.

spot of night fishing. As the sun set slowly over the remote cliffs between Punta de Papagayo and Playa Quemada, anglers hauled up barracuda, squid, besugos and freelined for mackerel. Pep often lands bigger game such as marlin, tuna, sharks and stingrays, and the whole experience was unforgettable - as was the fresh mackerel escabeche that formed the next dayÂ´s dinner. Shore fishers can also have good sport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; locals tend to go after the revered Viejas, but the island is also surrounded by grey and red mullet, sea bream, garfish, and many more species that offer decent sport.

n Excursions Lanzarote is the embarkation point for various ferries to the attractive resort of Corralejo on neighbouring Fuerteventura, the unspoiled northern island of La Graciosa, the other Canary Islands and mainland Spain. Smaller charters also operate from the marinas and resort harbours, offering experiences including birdwatching voyages, glass-bottomed boat trips, sea treks to the northern isles or simply relaxing and partying on the open sea.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 37

usiness pdates U

1 Lilium is 9! In April, Orlando and Sandra celebrate the ninth anniversary of their restaurant Lilium. The story began in April 2006 in Tías before the restaurant moved to C/José Antonio in Arrecife in 2010. Since November 2014 Lilium has also been serving the very best of contemporary Canarian cuisine in the new premises at Marina Lanzarote, where you can find all the classic dishes: plantain croquettes with mint salsa, sweet potato millefeuille with cream of cheese, salmon from Uga or Lilium´s celebrated suckling pig served in its crunchy skin with banana and maracuya sauce.

1 Get Motoring

with UK Autos UK Autos, Lanzarote´s oldest British garage, is still the place to go for reliable service and decent prices. Save time and worry by letting UK Autos prepare your car for its ITV (MOT) test, with full check-up and test fee included. Or call to ask about car hire, repairs, insurance, sales and valeting services, Call 928 8333581 or go to www.uk-autos.com

1 Rely on Spectra Celebrating eight years in business this month, Spectra is now a well established and respected presence in the villa management sector. Offering property management, cleaning, key-holding, maintenance, gardening and pool services, Spectra´s 24/7 pledge means that it has been providing peace of mind day and night for eight years – that´s 8760 days or 74,000 hours. 38

| April 2015 | The Gazette

1 Awards galore

for the Bahia Real Congratulations to the Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahía Real in Corralejo, Fuerteventura, which was recently awarded a Sunway Excellence prize by the Irish tour operator Sunway. The hotel was also awarded the SICTED (Integral System for Tourist Quality Destination) certificate for its commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

1 Mamycoach for hire Mamycoach in Tías would like to remind all customers that, as well as offering nearly-new ítems for babies and children, you can also hire cots, highchairs, pushchairs, playpens etc – iideal for families who are only on the island for short time.

1 Magical Mandragora Mandragora is the Spanish Word for the mythical mandrake plant, and Mandragora Gardens can certainly do magic in your garden. Specialising in the design of unique, classy gardens in various styles, from formal to chill-out, Mandragora can take care of everything from landscaping, design, construction, planting, always to the client´s wishes. Go to www.mandragora.com to find out more.

1 20 Years of Olympics

at Colegio Arenas International Marìa, a former student of Arenas International School Lanzarote, was the main presenter in an event dedicated to the 20-year history of the Olympics at this school in Costa Teguise. The opening ceremony took place on March 7th and was attended by faculty, leadership team, parents and relatives who did not want to miss a show in which all the students, as well as representatives from the Arenas School in Gran Canaria, were protagonists in showcasing different exercises where drama, dance, skating and gymnastics were combined. The activities in this twentieth edition took place from Monday 9 to Friday 13 March and began, as is traditional, with friendly football, volleyball and 7-a-side football matches, a padel course, the second edition of the Arenas International School Judo Tournament International, workshops and a visit by the 2nd division futsal team Gran Canaria Colegios Arenas, culminating with the traditional Spring Ball.

ADVERTORIAL

Your Pension Funds

and Spanish Succession Tax By Paul Montague, Partner, Blevins Franks There is a lot of discussion at the moment about the UK pension reforms. It is essential to seek advice to ensure you understand how each option affects you personally, so you can make an informed decision on the best solution for you. You cannot afford to get it wrong.

here is another important pension planning issue that many people overlook, and that is succession tax implications in the Canary Islands. For many people, their pension fund is their most important asset, because it provides all or much of your monthly income. Taxing this fund on your death could substantially reduce this income for your spouse. Spanish succession tax is charged if the beneficiary is resident in Spain, or if the assets are Spanish assets. The recipient pays the tax and there is no blanket exemption between spouses. So, if you both live in Spain, when you die your spouse will pay succession tax on the pension funds they inherit from you. This could reduce their monthly income in future.

“When you die, your spouse will have to pay succession tax on the pension funds they inherit from you. This could reduce their monthly income in future.” The progressive rates of succession tax range up to 34%. There are also multipliers, and overall tax rate could be over 80% in extreme circumstances. The tax free allowance under the state rules is only €15,957. The local autonomous communities can adjust the tax rates and allowances to make them more beneficial, but in the Canary Isles the tax liability remains substantial. Your spouse’s allowance is €40,400., everything else is liable for tax.

For your spouse’s peace of mind and financial security, you need to plan ahead for this succession tax liability on your pension fund now, so your spouse is prepared for the impact the tax will have on their retirement income, and to consider ways to avoid it. Blevins Franks has had an office in the Canary Islands for 20 years, and decades of experience advising expatriates on their tax, estate and pension planning. We have Spanish tax experts and UK pension specialists, and would be happy to discuss your options for planning for this tax, and potentially avoiding it, and to recommend personalised solutions. Visit www.blevinsfranks.com for information on Blevins Franks. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice. Blevins Franks has 20 established ofﬁces across Spain, France, Portugal, Cyprus, Malta and UK, and decades of experience advising British expatriates. Contact our Partner Paul Montague on 922 716 079 or paul.montague@blevinsfranks.com

‘‘If I die a Spanish resident, is it true that my spouse would face heavy taxes on inheriting my UK pension fund? Can I protect against this?”

Talk to the people who know. contact us now on

PWK031-es

928 433 411

paul.montague@blevinsfranks.com

Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Mediation Directive from Malta, the regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

FR A NCE

SPA IN

PORTUGA L

CY PRUS

M A LTA

U NITED K INGDOM

www.blevinsfranks.com The Gazette | April 2015 | 39

Epostbag ditor’s

Send your letters to our office (address on page 3) or email editorial@gazettelive.com

n Bus confusión

Dear Editor, My husband and I have just returned to UK after a six week stay on lovely Lanzarote. I could write a whole book on our experience of the Intercity Lanzarote bus service, but I will try to reduce my comments to short facts: 1) At the busy bus stop at the Biosfera the only timetable visible is for the free bus to Rancho Texas. No indication is given as to which buses stop and pick up at that stop. 2) The stop on the other side of the road, by Volcan Apts, does have a board which lists the buses to Tias, Macher etc. But there is no mention of the 03 or 161 services which both stop there. 3) The stop by Las Vistas only lists the Tias buses. They do stop there, but so do the 03 and 161. 4) The stop further up C/Juan Carlos1, above the Pharmacy, only has the Tias buses listed on the board, but these buses DO NOT stop there, while the unlisted 03 and 161 do. 5) On Wednesdays there are no extra 161 buses put on for Playa Blanca market day. On these routes we found ourselves waiting two

hours for buses that did not come, or were marked “Full” when they did. I could go on, but I think that´s quite enough for now. We hope this does not stop tourists from visiting other parts of the island. No wonder companies like Last Minute.com are flourishing. We will still be visiting this lovely Island. Tom & Ruth Reed. Via email

n Camel cheer

Dear Gazette, The politician who criticised the camel sculptures at Uga has probably forgotten that Lanzarote is a tourist island that is visited by thousands of families every year. Our seven-year old was absolutely enchanted by the sight of the camels, and we know that they will become a welcoming landmark on future visits. As for being an “insult to our beloved camels”,

eaders are reminded that views and comment expressed within the Postbag pages are those of the contributors and may not necessarily reflect the opinions or standpoint of The Gazette staff. It should also be noted that The Gazette is an independent publication free from political persuasion or governmental censorship.

it´s clear the sculptures aren´t meant to be realistic. Peppa Pig looks nothing like a real pig, but no one calls her an “insult to our beloved pigs.” Yours Sally King Via email

n Camel horror

Dear Editor, I have to admit that the sight of a gigantic humped monster looming out of the darkness gave me a bit of a shock as I drove down to Playa Blanca recently. I´ll get used to the camels, but I wonder how many other drivers might think they´ve travelled back to One Million Years BC? More generally, while I think the Manrique sculptures on roundabouts are wonderful, I do wonder about their effect on safety. Surely on Lanzarote´s roundabuts all your attention should be focused on the road? Yours Gary Via email

n Carnival crazy! OFFICE HOURS: MON - FRI 09:00 - 15:00 - Tias main ofﬁce C/ Islote de Hilario 7 Tel : 606.293.313 - 606.589.760 - 928 834 103 Fax. 928 833 988 - email : info@gesgrouplanzarote.com

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Dear Gazette, Thanks for the interview with Juan Medina. We have never visited Lanzarote at carnival time before, and we didn´t really know anything about it. So we were amazed at the sights and sounds that we saw during the carnival at Puerto del Carmen. The dancers, the costumes and the decorated floats just kept on coming, each more inventive than the last. We must have taken hundreds of photos and the atmosphere was simply amazing. Surely more tourists and visitors should know about this wonderful event. Greta Harland N. Ireland

A neglected Manrique ‘wind toy’

Mr Kerry, and it would be wonderful to see them spinning around again. There were proposals to renovate them in 2007, but it’s not clear if this work was ever carried out. Now would also be the perfect time to renew Costa Teguise´s sculptural heritage, after the announcement of the Mayor´s interesting new plan to convert the abandoned hotels that blight the resort into “open air art galleries” (see News pg 6).

n Cock and bull

Ed: The structures you mention are indeed LAPTOPS AND PC, smaller examples of Manrique´s “wind toys”,

PHONES AND MUCH MORE FOR SALE

INDUSTRIAL ZONE

YA HONDA EXPRESSWAY PLA

DEILAND C/ Chimidas

Parking

C/ Alisio

C/ Princesa Ico

C/ Merlin

Dear Editor, Here in Costa Teguise we are fortunate to have at least three very attractive wind mobile structures which I think may have been designed by the late, great César Manrique. Two of these can be found along the Calle Ruta del Norte and a third is located near the junction of C/Los Dragos and the Avenida de Las Palmeras. Sadly, however, for several years now all three of these lovely structures have remained completely static owing to a lack of maintenance. On closer inspection I´ve noticed that in each case the steel collars on all three of the rotating arms have rusted solid against the steel supporting post, despite the fact that each collar is fitted with an appropriate grease nipple. On my annual visit to Costa Teguise last year I managed, with considerable difficulty but a great sense of achievement, to get one of them working

properly. But when I returned this year I was disappointed to discover that it had seized up again. I feel that the local authority ought to arrange to carry out a regular maintenance programme on these attractive structures which were, after all, designed to be moved continuously by the wind. First, they need to be freed from rust and repainted. Then the working parts should be lubricated at least once a month to keep them rotating. I´m sure I´m not the only person who would love to see them back in full working order; not only for the visual delight of the general public, but also as a tribute to their talented designer. Yours sincerely John Kerry Apts Las Cucharas

C/ Del Mayor

n Rust in peace?

Dear Gazette, I had read that cockfighting (March issue, pg 27) was legal in the Canaries, but in 12 years here I´ve never seen any sign of it. I´m no fan of bullfighting or cockfighting but it does amuse me when people attack these sports for cruelty without looking closer to home. Anyone who eats meat, for example, is supporting an industry that causes infinitely more animal suffering than blood sports. The argument that “We need meat” is not good enough, given that most of us eat far more of it than we need. It´s also interesting that you also published an article on proposed cat control measures that seemed to show that cats are far more of a threat to Lanzarote´s birds than the cockfighting fraternity. Yours Den Bragg

C/ Mayor 22 Local A, Playa Honda. 928 821 633 - info@gigabytesolution.es Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 09.30 - 13.30 / 16.30 - 20.00 Saturday: 10.00 - 13.30

The Gazette | April 2015 | 41

The

Pink SockCure!

Lanzarote vet Jane Burke explains why it’s wise to check for simple problems before inventing complicated ones, and why pink socks are every bit as effective as crazy “Facebook remedies.” was telling my son recently about a brilliant lady vet I once employed. Caring, conscientious, knowledgeable, she was also dangerously useless without continual supervision. Her problem was a total inability to grasp the idea that “common things occur commonly”. When I tried to elaborate, Samuel said “Occam’s Razor”. I had never heard of this, and the precise meaning is slightly different but it will serve. In any diagnostic situation, (animals, car engines, computers etc), there will always be an endless number of variables. Time, money and, in your pet’s case, kindness and safety, will limit how many of these can be quantified. Without common sense, diagnostic tests could cost you a fortune and cause catastrophic delay in implementing suitable treatment. For example, one of the most common conditions seen in a vet’s surgery is loss of hair with itchy/irritated skin above the tail root, along the back. If I were to test for each and every condition that might cause this, (virus, bacterial, fungal, hormonal, allergic, mites, ticks, neurosis etc.) the cost would be horrendous and the results confusing. Running extensive tests may be required but they should not be instituted until all possibility of flea bite allergy and anal gland infection has been definitely eliminated. Returning to my over-cautious employee, I can still remember the “You´d better sort this out now” look on my head nurse’s face as she handed me the laboratory invoice for skin scrapings, bacterial/ fungal cultures, allergy tests, leishmaniasis tests, full blood biochemistry and histology of biopsy samples that had been performed over a period of weeks on a pensioner’s cat. The cat was treated for fleas and the vet encouraged to find work elsewhere. I have a personal term for the tendency of almost everyone, (including myself) to make clear assumptions from totally unclear information. I call it ‘pink sock syndrome’, and it´s the bane of my life. To illustrate my point, a woman comes into the clinic and says her cold has miraculously cured since she started wearing pink socks, (or has started drinking orange juice, doing Reiki - whatever). Another lady says she has not caught a cold all winter because she always wears pink socks. As a result one random

| April 2015 | The Gazette

coincidence gets innocently imbued with mystical powers. A friend emails me with an article about hanging magnetic medallions on pet collars to get rid of fleas. I tell him to tie pink socks round their necks instead. Just as effective and much cheaper. A woman asked only this week if fresh lemon juice would stop her cat getting fleas if she rubbed in to her fur. I told her to soak some pink socks in lemon juice- the cat would be less distressed and the socks would smell nice and clean. These are just two of the less harmful

examples of the lunatic ‘Facebook cures’ and ‘Google miracles’ I am bombarded with daily. The real truth is that if it works, someone will test it, patent it, and make money selling it as medication. If it doesn’t they will try and flog it on the internet. The reality is that non-infectious diseases such as cancer, allergies, autoimmune and degenerative conditions wax and wane. They get better or worse randomly- for no reason we can yet understood. Of the million and one possible causes, the weather is as good as any to blame. Maybe cold, wet weather makes arthritis worse. Personally I think it more likely that lying around and moving less is the culprit, but for all I know it may be exposure to Christmas decorations and mince pies! All I do know for certain is that my arthritic pain seems worse on days that are, or feel colder. I also see more pets showing signs of arthritic and rheumatic pain in the cooler months. But our diets change, our habits change and those changes

“With all things being equal, the simplest explanation tends to be the right one.” William of Occam’s 'Razor'

Pink ears, pink socks it’s all the same to me

may all interact with our metabolism and our state of mind, all of which affect disease. I wish organic food or raw diets were the answer to everything. I wish stupid claims didn’t make me feel so angry. Those with cancer or loved ones with cancer are so very vulnerable. There should be a law that allows us to strangle the liars and the cheats that prey on hopes and fears or feed on the guilt of illness. Until then, with clean glasses and bowls lets raise a drink of fresh water to those whose lives are dedicated to finding real answers to medical problems, and to our pets, whose abilities to diagnose and aid our recovery becomes more apparent every year. And please check your pet’s microchip is registered in Zoocan and the contact details are up to date.

INSURANCES FOR EXPATRIATES AT THE BEST PRICES TEL: 928 804 266 Email: info@assateguise.com

Counselling Lanzarote Labour Advisory Services including Self-employed, Companies, Reposessions, Nominas and much more. Tax office: We prepare and process documentation for the tax office. Certificates of Indebtedness National Institute of Social Security (INSS) Application for retirement, widowhood, disability, maternity, etc. Public Employment Service Assistance, guidance and conciliation for work inspections. Expat services e.g: NIE request, EU card applications, etc All paperwork carried out for Town Halls, Cabildo, Court Offices, Canary Island Government, Traffic Department, Notaries, etc. Email: info@assateguise.com Counselling Phone : 605 244 871

EXCLUSIVE AGENT FOR LIBERTY INSURANCE OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY FROM 8AM TILL 2PM EDIFICIO SAUERMANN. C/ JOSE ANTONIO, 114. DOOR 12, 1ºC. TEL: 928 804 266 FAX: 928 804 673. ARRECIFE MOB: 605 244 901 • seguros@assateguise.com The Gazette | April 2015 | 43

rossword

There’s a bottle of crisp, dry, delicious Lanzarote wine waiting for the lucky person whose correct entry is first out of the hat this month. Last month’s winner was Anni Leneghan, who can pop in to fetch his/her plonk anytime. Well done, Anni! Send a scan or photo of the completed puzzle to editorial@gazettelive.com or post to our address on pg.3, Entries must be received by 18th April.

1: Redheaded winner of this year’s Oscar for Best Actress (8,5) 8. Informal British “Goodbye” or US breakfast cereal hoop (7) 9. Offal dish enjoyed in Northern England, or as callos in Spain (5) 10. A bird’s home 11. Government representative in international negotiations (8)

“Tell me, my friend, have you ever solved the crossword in the pale moonlight?” 1

ACROSS

13. Game over if you’re playing chess (9)

14. TV police series set in Las Vegas, New York and Miami (3) 15. Harry Potter´s pet Hedwig (3) 17. An evil, brutish creature in Lord of the Rings (3) 18. One of the two main branches of Islam (5)

19. European country – capital Tallin (7) 20. A white whale with a long tusk (7)

21. One on horseback, or a term added to a contract (5)

DOWN 1. Two-times Oscar-winning US actor who starred in The Shining (4,9) 2. Largest city in Yorkshire (5)

3. Teased-out Afro-American hairstyle (4) 4. Streatham-born British supermodel who seems to spend as much time in the dock on assault charges as on the catwalk (5,8)

5. Machine you need to pass through at the airport (5,8) 6. Drug obtained from poppies (5)

7. “Old Sparky” is the nickname of this American means of execution (8,5) 12. A brief outbreak of fighting (8)

Last months answers: Across: 1.Nadine Coyle 8.Michael 9.Altar 10.Eddy 11.Ash 12.Ill 14.Parthenon 15.Elm 16.Amber 18.Hero 20.Eve 21.Perfect 22.Cherry 23.Elton Down: 1.Number plate 2.Decider 3.Neat 4.Cillian Murphy 5.Yearling 6.Extra 7.Graham Norton 13.Wherever 15.Element 17.Beech 19.Tree

| April 2015 | The Gazette

14. A monarch is …….. at a coronation ceremony (7) 16. Large ocean-going passenger ship (5)

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Enjoy the break This April brings a welcome Easter holiday followed by a month of peace before Lanzarote is suddenly plastered with election posters, filled with frantically training Ironmen and Ironwomen, and the preparations for the summer start to get really serious. First-time tourists and visitors always get to discover this beautiful island anew, but if you live here there’s no need to feel jealous. Even though it’s small, there’s enough packed into Lanzarote to keep you eternally interested, allowing you to explore and rediscover parts of the island you can fall in love with all over again. The clocks have sprung forward, giving us an extra hour of evening daylight, and with the weather getting better everyday this is a wonderful time to get out and about. Whether you’re hiking along a picturesque footpath, window-shopping in a swish marina or dining on a warm, sun-dappled terrace, this is what Living Lanzarote is all about.

contents 48 Every Little Helps! 50 More Fool You! 52 Quick Fixes

55 56 58 60 62

Island of Flavour Flavours of the World Secret Ingredient José Andrés Class Food

64 Smokin' Hot 66 Looking Good, Tasting Good 68 What's On 71 Art and Culture

“Just 60 seconds a day can make a difference.”

Every Little Dynamic, Rewarding & Fun! For anyone who needs an extra boost of motivation and support to reach your weight, fitness goals and change your body shape!

Whatever Your Age, Shape or Fitness Level!

• Personal Training-Individual and group sessions • Personal Training Holidays & Fitness Breaks • Personal customised fitness programmes • Stabilisation, balance and agility training • Enhanced self-defence techniques es • Boxercise All at my • Kick Box • Exercise in water exclusive & private • Life & Health assessments studio gym & pool. • Nutritional advice Advanced Instructor Level 3 • Stress & relaxation techniques • Kidz Fit • Ante/Post Natal Fitness • Senior or Fitness

For more information call Mitch on 928 52 98 54 or mobile: 618 498 662 www.personaltrainerlanzarote.com

Home visits available or anywhere you feel comfortable

| April 2015 | The Gazette

You don’t have to be an Ironman or woman to be fit – when you’re getting in shape, every little helps. his month we´ll see more and more dedicated athletes pounding the roads of the island as they train for next month´s Ironman race. Triathlons, marathons and other distance events have become increasingly popular with all age groups, but if you feel you´re not cut out for this sort of exertion, don´t worry. There are plenty of other ways of getting fit. Doctors call fitness the “No.1 wonder drug”, and evidence for the value of physical activity continues to pour in. Most recently, MacMillan Cancer Support have published research showing the almost miraculous way that exercise can improve the chances of full recovery for cancer survivors. Meanwhile, a report from Florida has shown that elderly people can drastically reduce their

chances of heart disease by just increasing their physical activity by 60 seconds of walking a day. The message is clear. Our sedentary, couch potato lifestyles could be killing us, and the first step to improving your life and your health is to get busy.

Up and about

The first step to getting fit is simply to lead a more active life. This doesn´t mean putting aside an hour a day for jogging or other forms of exercise; it simply means getting off your backside a little more. Active people are easy to spot. They´re the ones who can´t seem to sit still in front of the TV for more than 20 minutes without getting up to fetch a drink, dim the lights or just stretch their legs. At school they were probably told off for fidgeting, but that restlessness could turn out to be a benefit later in life. And it´s not hard to get into the swing of active life. Use the stairs instead of the lift; grab the first parking place you see rather than cruising around

Cook and be fit!

Exercise ideas Gardening is a great way to take part in regular light exercise. By watering your garden a few times a week you´ll already be upping your exercise quotient.

Home cooking is another surprisingly beneficial activity. You´ll be on foot, generally moving around, bending and reaching, and there´ll be moments when you can do some more intensive exercises while you´re waiting for items to boil or cook.

Have a look at group activities available on the island, too. Whether its hiking up a volcano, helping out at a boot sale or practicing yoga, getting out of the house is almost always the best way to stay trim.

Helps

looking for one that means you have to walk as little as possible; get a dog and walk it; take a little more pride in your garden

– all these activities will keep your metabolism ticking over and stop you sinking into a slack, seated lifestyle. Official guidelines in the UK say that most people should do 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week – however, three out of four people fail to achieve this target. But when you look at what it involves – twenty minutes of walking a day, a couple of sessions in

Monofocals from €75 (lenses + frame) Monofocals 2 pairs from €95 (lenses + frame)

the gym or in the pool, or just taking part in a normal hobby such as tennis or football; it´s surprising that more people aren´t fitter. But even if you aren´t hitting those guidelines, it´s still important to remember that any exercise is better than none – and that a journey of 100 miles begins with a simple step. Every step of exercise you take will bring you closer to your goal of fitness and improved health.

FREE eye test Insoles to measure Footwear to measure Mobility Aids Prosthetic breasts

OFFERS on Graduated Lenses C/ José Betancort no 12 35500 Arrecife - Lanzarote Tlf: 928 806 015 The Gazette | April 2015 | 49

PSYCHOLOGY

Fool YOU MORE

April 1st offers the chance to fool our friends and workmates, but it’s also worth remembering that we fool ourselves all the time. Selfdeception can be damaging, but it can also be a vital survival mechanism – the trick is getting the balance right. Before reading on, answer the following question: How would you rank your social skills on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being terrible, 10 being fantastic and 5 being just average?

| April 2015 | The Gazette

“Could lying to yourself make you happier”

“T

he truth? You can’t handle the truth!”

snarled Jack Nicholson to Tom Cruise in A Few Good Men. But it´s not just Tom – most of us find certain truths difficult to deal with, and we build up all kinds of defence mechanisms to avoid it. In a famous experiment at Stanford University, psychologists asked volunteers to perform a dull pegturning task for an hour. Afterwards, they paid them for their work, but some were given a generous fee of $20, while others were given just $1. When the highly paid volunteers were interviewed, they agreed that the work had been laborious and mind-numbing, while the lower-paid volunteers tended to say that the task had been more fun. The conclusion is that, without the financial incentive for performing it, students tended to fool themselves that they weren´t wasting their time.

Above average Another example of self-deception occurs when we ask people to rank themselves out of 10 for sociability, intelligence, car-driving skills etc. Even when it is explained that a score means “normal”, most people will rank themselves from around 7 to 9. Think about the

You´re in

Our Service

Large Selection of Auxiliary Tools

answer you gave to the question at the start of this article then ask yourself where all the average people are? This sort of self-deception, in which we tend to regard themselves as out of the ordinary or “special” can be seen in all sorts of situations. There are drivers who believe they drive better with a couple of drinks inside them, even though scientific evidence has shown that this is simply impossible. Similar deceptive beliefs underpin almost everything we do to a greater or lesser extent.

Use your illusion So why do we lie to ourselves? For a simple answer, all we need to do is look at the Spanish language. In Spanish, the word “ilusion” means “hope” or “excitement” – even though the original Latin meaning, and the English “illusion” refers to deception. So is hope just an illusion? Of course not, but in the ways we deceive ourselves on a daily basis we can certainly see a pattern of optimistic thinking. We naturally prefer to look on the bright side of things, and our own capabilities are so important to us that we

almost always overestimate ourselves. On many occasions this can be deeply destructive. Any recovering alcoholic will be able to tell you searingly honest tales about their own history of self-deception, and similar patterns of thought can be found in victims of long-term domestic abuse (as well as in the abusers). As a basic rule, when something starts to affect your daily life in a negative way, then it´s time to stop fooling yourself and look for explanations a little closer to home. You need to be able to face the truth before you can handle it. On the other hand, psychologists have also shown that self-deception can actually help us to succeed. Psychologist Joanna Starek has shown that competitive swimmers who show moderate levels of self deception perform better than those who are more realistic about their capabilities. Indeed, the current trends in sport and business for positive thinking, in which people are encouraged to have blind faith in their abilities, have consistently shown good results. Moreover, those who exhibit a moderate level of selfdeception have been shown to be happier. The conclusion is clear: being an April fool might not always be a bad thing if you´re the one doing the fooling!

The Gazette | April 2015 | 51

QFixes uick

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received a last-minute invitation to a party, you may need some rapid beauty therapy in order to scrub up and shine.

Lush Lips To combat dry, flaky lips, exfoliating is the key for a prettier pout, as well as for making your lipstick's colour and shine last longer. Use a dry toothbrush with a medicated lip balm to rub off the rough skin.

Dental Clinic in Tias

Dr. Erik Prem D.D.S. (Stockholm, Sweden)

Monday & Wednesday 9am-3pm. Tuesday & Thusday 9am-1pm & 4pm-7pm. Friday 9am-1pm - Saturday 11am-12am

Cosmetic & aesthetic dentistry Whitening of Teeth Crown, Bridges, Dentures, Implants Gum diseases Orthodontics

Tel : 928 83 40 16 C/ Libertad 44, Tias 52

| April 2015 | The Gazette

IKEA card

payment acceptable

For puffy, swollen eyes the 'frozen spoon' trick is a godsend. Put two metal teaspoons in the freezer and leave them there for 15 to 20 minutes while you gulp down a giant glass of lemon water to detoxify and rehydrate. Once the spoons are frosty, place them on your eyelids face up with the rounded part in full contact with your lid. Keep them in place for a few minutes.If you´re using your teaspoons for something else, wrap ice cubes in a paper towel and apply to lids instead.

Put it up! Frizzy hair comes with the territory on Lanzarote, where your crowning glory may be regularly subjected to chlorine, sea water, wind and sunshine. A hairstylist will tackle the problem professionally, but if you simply don´t have time the best solution is not to fight it and pull your hair up instead. To create a polished knot without pins, start with a ponytail, then wrap the lengths and ends around the base and secure them beneath the hair.

Puffy eyes

Spot check

Rogue pimples and renegade zits are one sure way to put a damper on your party mood. The most effective way to get rid of them is to get a rapid cortisone shot from a trained dermatologist. It´s goodbye redness and inflammation almost instantly. Otherwise, soothe redness with an ice cube and focus on hiding. Dab on a concealer and set with translucent powder.

Whiten up!

Yellow teeth can be a real pain, and while a cosmetic bleaching session at the dentist is the ideal solution, there are some quick fixes you can try at home. Go for a red lipstick with cool, blue undertones rather than warm yellow and orangey tints – the contrast will make your teeth look whiter. Keep a quicky-whitening gel in your handbag, as well.

UNISEX HAIRDRESSER & BEAUTY SALON All beauty treatments and massages

Time to show your feet!

NEW!

SPECIAL OFFER!

Facial Mask Flash Effect 100% Natural with 40 active ingredients

40€ Calle Pedro Barba 7, Puerto Del Carmen Tel:928 964 054

Find us in Facebook Amazing Hairdressers

Special Price: Children´s Cut 5€

Paraffin for feet with basic pedicure included

NEW!

Hair building Fibres 100% Natural

30€

Open Mondays from 10am to 4pm - Tuesday-Friday from 10am to 8pm - Saturdays from 10am to 6pm

The Gazette | April 2015 | 53

Allow us to

Spice Up

your life!

Authentic Indian Cuisine

APRIL

Do you miss your curry? If yes, come and visit us. % 20 OFF

FOR RESIDENTS & FOR THOSE SUBMITTING THIS AD BEFORE REQUESTING THE BILL (Not on home deliveries, not combinable with other offers)

• Tandoori Specialties • Children Menus • Delicious curry

• Gluten-free food

• Unique vegetarian dishes

Spicy only if you want PIONEERS IN HINDU FLAVOUR SINCE 1999

Open daily from 11am till late Reservations / Takeout

Lunch Menu at

€5,95

928 512 747 - 928 528 405 - 928 511 532

FREE

HOME DELIVERY ANYWHERE (CONSULT MIN. ORDER)

CALL 676 229 497 OR 928 512 747

THE ZAFFRAN GROUP OF INDIAN RESTAURANTS

INDIAN ZAFFRAN Pto. del Carmen C/Juan Carlos I, 25 – C.C. Olivin Tel. 928 512 747 Near the Biosfera Commercial Center | April 2015 | The Gazette 54

INDIAN AROMA Pto. Del Carmen Avenida de las Playas 14, C.C. Las Tabaibas Tel. 928 528 405 Near Tito’s Bar

BOLLYWOOD Pto. Del Carmen Avenida de las Playas 67 Tel. 928 511 532 Near Café del Carmen

of sland IFlavour What are the flavours of Lanzarote? Locals will talk of the toasted flavour of gofio-the maize meal that is fed to children here from an early age - or they’ll lick their lips as they think of a tasty piece of fish cooked on the grill and seasoned with garlic and salt. ourists will almost certainly mention the salty melt-in-the-mouth wrinkled potatoes and the spicy, herby red and green mojo sauces. Gourmets will mention the award-winning goat´s milk cheeses, the sweet, firm onions or perhaps a salad of tangy, ripe tomatoes. And wine buffs will probably choose one of the more celebrated recent vintages, or perhaps one of the specially created fortified or sparkling wines. All of these encapsulate the savour and pleasure of dining on Lanzarote, but they are just the beginning of the story. Over the last 50 years many more incomers have arrived on the island, bringing their own ingredients, technique and flavours. As a result, a spicy, mouth-watering curry, a tantalising Chinese meal or a hearty Italian pasta dish have become every bit as important to the island´s cuisine. This is an island that never stops assimilating, learning about and enjoying new tastes and new culinary experiences. And that process doesn´t just take place in the kitchen. As Lanzarote welcomes new products, a renewed interest in locally-produced food means

that farmers and agriculturists are extending the range of crops. Now you can find everything from fresh chillies to kumquats on local market stalls, as well as an increasing range of herbs and salad greens. Faster global connections now mean that imported products are here faster and fresher, and with a much greater range than ever before. In short, this is an island where almost everything is possible – and if it isn’t here now, all you have to do is wait.

LA TEGALA RESTAURANT GERMAN BLANCO

The Gazette | April 2015 | 55

FLAVOURS

of the

Lanzarote has been a crossroads for international food for centuries, and that’s truer today than it’s ever been.

WORLD

A VERY ASTER HAPPY E omers

to all of

hen Spanish galleons came back from the New World 500 years ago, bearing strange fruits and vegetables that Europe had never seen

our cust

before, one of their first stops was the Canary Islands. This explains why potatoes, tomatoes, cacti and tobacco have been a part of Canarian life for centuries. But before the Suez Canal was built, the islands

Sunday lunch at Azure is served 12 onwards.

2 roasts for €15.95 Booking is advisable. Full a la carte menú served 12 onwards daily.

Why not have a bbq pack delivered to your door?

Join us for a delicious home-cooked Sunday Roast on Easter Sunday.

Outside catering service available for weddings, birthdays or even at your villa

Booking advisable.

Tel 928 849 675 • www.restaurantazure.com • Puerto Calero 56

| April 2015 | The Gazette

“

From the world to your table: Our diet is now more varied than ever.

were also a regular stopping point for merchant ships travelling round the Cape of Good Hope from Europe to Asia. Over the centuries, the cuisine of the islands has incorporated African yams, Asian spices, Portuguese mojo sauces, and, of course, techniques and styles from all regions of Spain. New ingredients and techniques have been rapidly adapted and integrated into existing cultures, both here and in other countries. Can you imagine Italian food without tomatoes, Irish cooking without spuds or Thai food without chillies? Yet all these ingredients are relatively recent arrivals.

British Tradition Of course, this is something that British cooks know all about as well. British kitchens have traditionally been one of the most welcoming places for exotic spices and ingredients. It goes back hundreds of years to when medieval cooks would pay a fortune for peppercorns or nutmeg, and continues right up to the present day as curries and Chinese food rank among the favourite treats of an entire nation. Even “classic” British meals such as fish and chips turn out to have rather more exotic roots than you might think – the fish derives from Spain and the chips from Belgium. Meanwhile, it´s not just one-way traffic – the vindaloo curry from Goa

in India is named after the Portuguese wine (vin) vinegar that gives it its distinctive sour flavour. Cooking techniques have also travelled the world. No one in Britain knew what a wok was 50 years ago, for example, and the barbecue is a Caribbean invention that has travelled the world. Deep frying has spread from countries which had ready supplies of olive oil, resulting in amazingly sophisticated Japanese tempura, as well as billions of bags of chips. In Australia, a vibrant community where Asian cooking techniques combined with Italian and Spanish ingredients to create new, fascinating combinations, the cooking styles became known as fusion – a word which soon swept the world. But in reality, this is nothing new.

Mix ‘n’ Match

”

n Spanish Spice

Compared to other cuisines, Spain uses relatively few spices, but those it does use tell us about the nation’s history. Fragrant cumin, cloves and cinnamon were almost certainly brought to the country by Moorish invaders over a millennium ago, and they remain defining flavours of Moroccan cuisine. Pimentón (paprika) is also found in chorizo sausages and many other dishes, but did not exist here before sweet peppers were brought back from South America. Saffron, which gives paella its unmistakeable colour and flavour, arrived with the Romans, who in turn brought the crocus plants that produce it from Greece.

Every cook knows that some combinations work perfectly – pork and apples, for example; but as cuisines expand and are adopted, the likelihood of discovering new combinations increases. There is no reason why Chinese food should not include dairy products, even though the Asian lack of reliance on milk means that very few traditional dishes feature dairy. Discovering new taste sensations and exciting new combinations is one of the things that every serious cook and lover of good food should explore. You never know what you may discover!

R e s ta ur a n t – W i n e sh op Gr e at at m o sp h er e w i t h sp e c ta c ul a r se a v i e w s

Centro Comercial La Mulata 4, Playa Blanca (next to H. Natura Palace) www.sebastyans.com

Reservations: 928 349 679 The Gazette | April 2015 | 57

he secret ingredient Whether its Italian or Spanish, Indian or Mexican, when you’re eating out on Lanzarote, there´s one ingredient that not only makes your food taste better, but which you can also enjoy in its raw state – warm, life-giving sunshine. ithout sunshine there simply wouldn’t be any food on the planet. Almost everything we consume ultimately gets its energy from the sun, and it´s that energy that keeps us alive, too. But there´s much more to it than that. Many ingredients only thrive in a hot atmosphere such as Lanzarote’s, which explains why you´ll find papayas, mangos and succulent peppers in every shop. Even those products that can be grown further north, such as tomatoes, grapes and herbs, have a much more intense flavour here, where they´ve been soaking up pure, uninterrupted sunshine throughout their lives. Try a clump of locally-grown thyme and basil, and revel in the raw, almost primal, intensity of those heady fragrances. Sunshine also dictates the patterns of marine life around our island, with sunshine nurturing tiny sun-loving algae and plankton, which in turn feed shoaling fish such as sardines and anchovies, which are themselves preyed upon by tuna and other

larger fish. Sunshine is as much an integral part of your perfectly-cooked fillet of fish as it is a vivid, sweet Lanzarote orange. As for wine, John Keats summed it up when he called for a “beaker full of the warm south” tasting of “sunburnt mirth.” In colder countries, wine has always evoked sunkissed lands. But there´s more to it than the flavour. Anyone who´s ever had a picnic or a barbecue, will agree that actually being in the sunshine seems to make food taste better. Perhaps it´s the fresh air sharpening your appetite, or the stimulation of sunshine on your skin, but food in the open air tastes, somehow, as if you´ve earned it. Sunshine also seems to burn those outdoor meals onto our memories. Ask anybody about the best meals they´ve ever eaten and you can bet that a high proportion of their choices will have taken place outdoors. And here on Lanzarote, you can eat in the sunshine almost all the time. Enjoy!

Relax in an unbeatable atmosphere with fantastic sea views

ASK FOR OUR ITALIAN TAPAS MENU Over 40 different Pizzas - Italian Cuisine - Restaurant Wide range of Beers from various countries

Ice Cream - Coffee Shop

LUNCH MENU

To Takeaway Pick 2 dishes from our menu and get

1 STARTER + 1 MAIN DISH + 1 DRINK

A DRINK FREE

€8.90

SPECIAL OFFER CHAMPIONS LEAGUE In the Restaurant

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, for each two pizzas, one of them FREE

Free Delivery - Order Now on : 928 833 086

Now accepted on Home deliveries

Find us at Playa Honda promenade (Avenida Maritima) • Open every day from 13:00 - 16:30 & from 19:00 till 23:30 58

| April 2015 | The Gazette

ADVERTORIAL

Box of Delights Carmen Saez’s

Prize-winning Lentil Recipe Ingredients 500g Lanzarote lentils 3 peeled garlic cloves 2 bayleaves 1 large Lanzarote onion A teaspoon of pimentón dulce* Small glass of virgin olive oil Salt to taste, and wáter *Pimentón dulce (sweet paprika) can be found in the spice display of any supermarket.

La Caja de Tapas overlooks Arrecife’s Charco de San Ginés and offers some the most original and delicious tapas on Lanzarote, created by an award-winning cook who has given this historical location a new lease of life.

rrecife´s Charco has recently undergone a renaissance. Lunchtimes see cruise passengers and locals relaxing and watching the small boats bobbing in the lagoon, while the evenings draw large crowds of all ages, to enjoy the warm evenings and the food, drink and frequent entertainment on offer. It´s a far cry from the year 2000, when Carmen Saez and her architect husband bought a large building by the Charco. Carmen was later elected as a councillor on Arrecife Council and has fought tirelessly to improve the state of the capital ’s most attractive tourist area. Those efforts have paid off, and now Carmen is able to focus on another of her passions- food. A passionate cook who won the Saborea Lanzarote prize for the best lentil stew at the recent Gastronomy Fair in Teguise, she has used her skills and imagination to create a genuinely fascinating menu at La Caja de Tapas (which means “box of tapas”, a theme echoed in the tomato crates that decorate the bar.). The tapas on offer combine Spanish and local classics, all made with fresh local ingredients and

often given a fascinating twist. The Spanish classic patatas bravas, for example, are made with superb potatoes from Uga and renamed papas fogaleras. Other dishes you´ll be keen to discover include gambas disfrazadas (prawns in fancy dress) and huevos con barriga (pot-bellied eggs). All good tapas bars should have one meal they´re famed for, and at La Caja de Tapas it´s croquetas – those tempting, deep-fried morsels that melt in the mouth. Carmen creates them in a dizzying variety of flavours, from classic ham and seafood, to seaweed, and banana. The bar´s freshly-made pâté, however, is becoming almost as renowned. Drinks are, of course, essential and at La Caja de Tapas you can accompany your meal with wines from almost every bodega on Lanzarotesold by the glass. Carmen recommends the local rosés and reds particularly – “They´re the ugly ducklings of Lanzarote wine, but they´re really worth discovering,” she says. Dark Tomasa beer from La Palma, and a wide range of delicious cocktails also be found on the drinks menu. La Caja de Tapas is unmissable – a shining jewel in a renovated Charco area that is going from strength to strength.

Directions Put 1.5 litres of cold water in a deep saucepan. Chop the onion finely and add to the water with the other raw ingredients (but no salt). Bring to the boil vigorously for five minutes. Then lower the temperature and simmer until the lentils are soft. Add salt and stop the lentils boiling with half a glass of cold water. Return to the boil for 5-10 more minutes, then leave to “rest” for at least half an hour. Serve with a tablespoon of gofio and some freshly sliced onion rings.

La Caja de Tapas Charco de San Ginés, Arrecife Tel: 928 81 45 70 The Gazette | April 2015 | 59

J Andrés osé

CHEF of the Month

José Andrés is the most well-known Spanish cook in the USA and, as a result, almost certainly one of the most influential ambassadors for Spain´s vibrant cuisine. osé Andrés was born in Asturias, northern Spain, in 1969 - a fortunate beginning for a cook given that this small region, which nestles between Galicia and the Basque Country, has an unmatched culinary reputation. Asturias is famed for its seafood, it´s rich fabada bean stews and its cheeses.

“To be a good cook you have to have a relationship with every ingredient to really understand how they come together” After his military service, José began to work at the legendary El Bulli restaurant with Ferrán Adriá. Named “the most imaginative generator of haute cuisine on the planet”, El Bulli won a second

with two different air conditioned areas : Fresh Pasta and Meats - Traditional Punjabi Indian Cuisine

Pioneers in the fusion of Italian and Indian Cuisine 60

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Puerto del Carmen, Av. de las Playas, 41 (near Casino and Café La Ola)

Open daily from 11am -11.30pm

Tel. 928 072 626 - mesoncafemasala@gmail.com

Michelin star while José worked there, and his relationship with Adriá would continue for decades. In 1991, José Andrés moved to New York, where he quickly made a name for himself, being hired at Jaleo in Washington DC and later opening his This tapa depends on great own restaurants prawns. You can use previously all over frozen prawns, if that’s all that the nation. is available. But if you’re able José to find fresh prawns, you’ll Andrés has make a dish you’ll never become the main advocate of forget. tapas dining in America, enthusiastically extending the classic Spanish small plates philosophy to include Lebanese mezze. Jose´s TV programme, Vamos A Comer (Let´s Eat) was screened in 2005 and became a huge success – not only in the US, but throughout Latin America. A year later, his book Tapas sold a quarter of a million copies. For many celebrity chefs, that would be enough, but José Andrés has also launched a career as an anti-hunger activist, founding the charity World Central Kitchen and lecturing on food issues at Harvard University. In 2010 José was awarded the prestigious Order of Arts and Letters by the Spanish government – the first chef to win such an honour; and in 2012 he was ranked among Time magazine´s 100 most influential people in the world. It´s José Andrés ultimate ambition to get restaurant treat. He sees home cooking as the Americans – and the rest of the world – to see heart and soul of family life and, despite cooking Spanish food as something that they can cook professionally all week, still looks forward to easily at home, as well as an exotic and tasty

Traditional Garlic Prawns (Gambas al ajillo)

José’s Tips

Serves 4 Ingredients n 4 tablespoons of Spanish extra-virgin olive oil n 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced n 20 large prawns (about 1 pound) n 1 guindilla chili pepper (or your favorite dried chili pepper) n 1 teaspoon brandy n 1 teaspoon chopped parsley n Salt to taste Preparation method In a medium sauté pan, heat the olive oil over a medium-to-high flame. Sauté the garlic cloves until browned, about 2 minutes. Add the prawns along with the chilli pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Turn over the prawns and sauté for another 2 minutes. Pour in the brandy and cook for another minute. Sprinkle with the parsley, add salt to taste, and serve. This is the ultimate tapa – there is no other dish with greater simplicity, speed of cooking, or reward for your taste buds. Be sure to include a lot of bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

preparing weekend meals for his family: “Cooking at home is like freedom,” says José. “I don’t have the same kind of freedom at my restaurants.”

Our main ingredient : enthusiasm! Modern Canarian Cuisine Follow us in Facebook Arrecife – Marina Lanzarote – Avenida Olof Palme Reservations: call 928 524 978 or book through www.restaurantelilium.com

The Gazette | April 2015 | 61

CFood lass

Lanzarote’s hotels offer magnificent dining experiences and play an important part in establishing the island’s reputation as a leader on cuisine. So why not book a table even if you aren’t planning on booking a room?

sk most people about hotel food and what will usually spring to mind the extensive buffets that are a central element of almost every establishment nowadays. Buffets are, of course, hugely popular for their variety of dishes their informal, pick and mix format and the fact that you can generally go back for as many helpings as you like. But few would ever claim they offer a particularly memorable dining experience.

Wine Merchant, Gourmet Shop & Delicatessen

territoriosibarita@gmail.com Territorio Sibarita 62

| April 2015 | The Gazette

But in many hotels the real attraction lies elsewhere, in the restaurants where the hotel tries to really attract discerning diners, or those who are in search of a touch of real class. And many of these hotels have a lot to offer. Take the Gran Hotel in Arrecife, for example, with its 17th floor Altamar restaurant offering fine food in elegant surroundings, with the best view on the island. Or there´s the Princesa Yaiza in Playa Blanca, which recently won a prestigious Canarian award for the best hotel cooking – typified in its gourmet Isla de Lobos restaurant. Then there´s the Melia Salinas in Costa Teguise, which was chosen by British PM David Cameron as the location for wife Samantha´s birthday meal during their visit last year. These are just a few of the many hotels

that have realised that offering really good food is not just attractive to paying guests, but also helps to spread the reputation of the hotel further afield. You´ll find that hotel restaurants almost always offer some of the most spectacular views that the establishment has to offer; that the surroundings will be elegant, luxurious and attractive; and that the staff who serve you will know exactly what they´re doing – if there´s one thing Lanzarote excels at, it´s pleasing guests. And many hotels offer more than one restaurant – depending on which hotel you choose you can also find Japanese, Italian and traditional Spanish restaurants, each offering separate menus. And if you really want to make a night of it, you could check in after all – just because you live here doesn´t mean you can´t take a relaxing break.

We stock

more than 150 wines, including vintages from Lanzarote; also Iberian ham products, cheeses, preserves, ten varieties of extra virgin olive oil, gourmet salts, marmalades, vinegars. Gift hampers, wine accessories such as corkscrews & decanters. We also work hand in hand with restaurants offering tastings, courses and much more.

Tel: 928 597 352 Mob: 676 361 778 @TerritorioSibar C/ Otilia Díaz no14 (behind La Plazuela) Arrecife

Smokin’

Hot

Barbecue season is back, and on Lanzarote that means you’ve got months of long, summer nights to enjoy the crackle and the sizzle.

arbecues are different. There´s no reason why they should be – after all, you´re just applying heat to raw ingredients the way you do every day in the kitchen – but everyone agrees that a barbecue is a special event. It could be because because it´s the oldest way of cooking known to humankind; maybe it´s the fact that a barbecue is nearly always a social occasion; or perhaps it´s just the evocative combination of smoke, sunset and sizzling, seasoned meat, but most of us find a barbecue irresistible.

But if you’re planning to cook out, there are a few tips to bear in mind:

Choose the right grill: Here on Lanzarote you can choose between gas (quick, reliable) and charcoal (more natural and flavoursome). Wood barbecues will cost a lot more time and effort, but may be worth investigating if you really want that smokehouse tang. Know your grill: The man with the tongs (it´s generally a man for some reason) is supposed to be a master of his art, effortlessly turning out perfectly cooked morsels. This is a lot easier if you know exactly what you´re working with, so it´s probably a good idea to have a few family barbecues and run that grill in before you invite scores of guests. Buy good meat: Not difficult on Lanzarote, but don´t cut corners. Go for the best. Don’t forget fish:

A seafood barbecue featuring sardines, tuna steaks, firm white doradas and freshly grilled prawns, can be spectacular. If you’re cooking both fish and meat, use two separate grills.

Provide side dishes: A good potato salad can end up being every bit as popular as the meat, and guests will always appreciate it if you put a little extra thought into a decent, herby green salad, some good quality bread rolls, pickles and nibbles and, of course, plenty of drinks. Focus on flavour: Meat needs seasoning, so think about marinades – there are thousands to choose from, from classic honey and mustard glazes to more adventurous Thai or Indian-inspired blends. And lay on plenty of condiments – mustard and ketchup, sure, but why not try a dash of Argentinian chimichurri or a local mojo sauce? 64

| April 2015 | The Gazette

The Gazette | April 2015 | 65

Restaurant food almost always looks better than the stuff we prepare at home – but it doesn’t always have to be like that. With a little practice, you can copy some of the techniques that restaurants use to make simple, fresh ingredients look like a million dollars.

Looking Good

Tasting

Good

ood doesn´t have to look good - if it did, no one would ever eat porridge. But presentation can certainly help to stimulate our taste buds, arouse our interest and make a meal genuinely memorable. Think of a golden paella or a vivid Indian thali, with multicoloured delicacies presented on an attractive tray. Restaurants also know that an attractively-presented meal is much more likely to create satisfied customers than the slapdash dollops you´ll find in a works canteen.

n Tall food Gravity tends to make food spread out on a plate, but with a little work and attention you can make it a lot more vertical, and “tall food” has been a red-hot trend in restaurants for some time. Sterile toothpicks or cocktail sticks can be used to add a “backbone” to

| April 2015 | The Gazette

combinations of meat, fish and vegetables- a practice that has been turned into a fine art by Spanish cooks who prepare pintxos – delicious-looking starters that often seem to defy gravity. Rice, mashed potato and other prepared bases can be moulded in metal sleeves or simply turned out, sandcastle style, from small bowls.

n Colour Why are oranges and lemons so vivid? Because fruit is the only ingredient on earth that is actually meant to be eaten, and its bright, tempting colours are a clear invitation to many species apart from humans. Don´t forget that many savoury ingredients, such as peppers and tomatoes are actually fruits, and that herbs and salad greens offer an immense palette of tempting greenery to work with.

Don´t forget that crockery is a vital element of food presentation. You don´t need square, black plates to make an impression, but do put some thought into what people will be eating off.

n Decoration Those plastic squeezy dispensers that they put ketchup in at greasy spoon cafes are also an essential tool for the creative cook. It is these that are used to create the swirls of balsamic vinegar, jus or meat glaze that decorate nouvelle cuisine plates. You can add your own final touch by running a toothpick through the liquid to create attractive ripple effects. And remember that garnishes are best kept simple – a leaf of parsley, a sprig of basil, a ring of pepper or a finely sliced onion ring can all make a difference.

Won hat’s

MUSIC

CARLOS ORAMAS

CONCERT: DURGA MCBROOM 4th April

The ex-backing vocalist of Pink Floyd performs an exlusive concert. Playa Blanca, Marina Rubicón Restaurant Afrodite Little Italy. Dinner and concert. 75€

CLASMU 2015: DOMINGO CORUJO 4th April @ 8pm

17th April @ 8pm

La Geria, Bodegas "El Grifo"

25th April @ 9pm

11th April @ 11am Festival with local bands. Three stages, 12 bands – 12 hours of live music. Teguise

MURRAY MCLACHLAN 11th April @ 7:30pm Works by Beethoven. Macher, Camel House. Entry: 25€ 68

| April 2015 | The Gazette

featuring works by Marevi, Francis Triana, Pilar Brito, Maritxell Barroso, Alberto Cabrera, José Manuel, Michel, MD Eva. Teguise, Convento de Santo Domingo

THEATRE

Teguise, Convento de Santo Domingo

FITO Y FITIPALDIS: 25th April One of Spain’s favourite rock groups Altavista Stadium, Arrecife.

JOSÉ SACRISTÁN: "CAMINANDO CON ANTONIO MACHADO" 23rd April @ 9pm One of Spain´s most popular actors performs a tribute to the popular poet. (Spanish language). Arrecife, Teatro Insular. Entry: 20€

EXHIBITIONS DOMINIC MURRAY

Paintings. Yaiza, Casa de la Cultura

TEGUISE MUSIC SHOWCASE

Until 12th April

Paintings by artist and teacher Cindy Batsleer. Tinajo: Pura Vida Arte y Cafe

San Bartolomé, Bodeguita de La Casa Cerdeña

Teguise, Casa Museo del Timple

GROUP EXHIBITION

3rd April - 30th April

CHRISTIAN HONERKAMP

10th April @ 9pm

Photographic study of Isora, the matriarch of a pod of Canarian pilot whales. Arrecife, Casa de Los Arroyo

La Geria, Bodega El Grifo

PUPILS OF THE MUSIC SCHOOL 11th April @ 8pm

JUAN CARLOS DE MULDER “IL CANTO DEL LIUTO"

Until 7th April

CINDY BATSLEER

MUSICAL: "LA MOVIDA MADRILEÑA"

}

LA HISTORIA DE ISORA/ THE HISTORY OF ISORA

19th April @ 1pm

Until 4th April

San Bartolomé, Bodeguita de La Casa Cerdeña

April 2015

SONIDOS LIQUIDOS (programme tbc)

"From Popular to Classical". A popular selection performed by the Arrecife-born master of the timple. San Bartolomé, Bodeguita de La Casa Cerdeña

IVANHOE RODRÍGUEZ AND ALMUDENA HERNÁNDEZ 25th April @ 8pm

{

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON AROUND THE ISLAND

Paintings. Arrecife, Sala de Exposiciones del Charco de San Ginés

Until 16th April

BALLET DANZAROTE LOS BRAGALES

30th April @ 8pm

Until 8th May

Tribute to the Opera. A new ballet group on Lanzarote, directed by Reinier Alfonso, perform a tribute to opera. Arrecife, TEA

Selected works from a Tenerife-based photography and art collection. Arrecife, Castillo San José MIAC

SPORT IV DESAFÍO 8ª ISLA 2015 10th to 12th April Triathlon. La Graciosa

GYMNASTICS FESTIVAL: ISLA DE LANZAROTE LOLINA CURBELO 11th April Inauguration Parade. From the Parque Islas Canarias to the beach El Reducto, Arrecife

MTB COMPETITION TÍAS 12th April @ 10:30am

15th to 18th April Arrecife, Ciudad Deportiva

I COPA DE CARRERAS POR MONTAÑA/MOUNTAIN RACING CUP 26th April Haría

OTHERS CAR BOOT SALE IN AID OF SARA ANIMAL CENTRE 11th April 9.30 am – 12.30 pm, Tahiche Garden Centre. Call 646838749 for info or to volunteer.

GREAT KENNEL KLUB SALE 25th April

{REGULAR

GYMNASTICS FESTIVAL: ISLA DE LANZAROTE LOLINA CURBELO

EVENTS }

Puerto del Carmen, Rancho Texas Park

This month and the last Saturday every month. 10 am – 2 pm at the Terraza Concord, C/Mastíl 71, Playa Honda.

ORIGINAL PALS CAR BOOT SALE Every Sunday 9 am, Lanzarote A Caballo. Sellers arrive 8-8.30 am. No booking required. Price €10.

... EVERY TUESDAY ...

.... EVERY FRIDAY ....

9pm: Jameos Nights, Dinner and live music. Jameos del Agua

10-2pm: Art and Souvenir Market, Puerto Calero

10-2pm: Social Fridays / Expat Community. Sun Park Living

Susi & Gopar, Playa Blanca, Cuatro Lunas

10-2pm: Market, Puerto del Carmen, Plaza El Varadero (old Town)

9pm: Jameos Nights, Dinner and live music. Jameos del Agua 10pm: Cuban Music, Playa Blanca, Cuatro Lunas

. EVERY SUNDAY . 9-2pm: Market, Teguise

.. EVERY WEDNESDAY .. 9-2pm: Market, Playa Blanca, Marina Rubicón 6-10pm: Craft and Souvenir Market, Costa Teguise, Pueblo Marinero 5pm - 7pm: Sun Rockers Tea Party, Sun Park Living, Playa Blanca

5-10pm: Market, Costa Teguise, Pueblo Marinero 9pm: Cuban Music, Teguise, El Patio Creperie

10-2pm: Original PALS Car Boot Sale, Lanzarote A Caballo.

10pm: Jam Sessions, Teguise, Bar La Galeria

10-2pm: Market, Uga

8:30pm: Canarian Folk Music, Puerto del Carmen, Café La Ola

New! Summer concerts: Live Concerts with different groups (call 928-826789 to confirm) Costa Teguise, Terraza Zen (Campo de Golf)

... EVERY THURSDAY ...

.. EVERY SATURDAY ..

10pm: Mauricio & Angy, Playa Blanca, Cuatro Lunas

9-2pm: Market, Playa Blanca, Marina Rubicón

Cinema In Original Version Don´t forget: Every Thursday the cinemas in Deiland (Playa Honda) and Atlantida (Arrecife) show films in their original language, with Spanish subtitles, giving you the chance to see US and British films often before they arrive in the UK.

9-2pm: Market, Arrecife, Plaza Iglesia de San Ginés

Gopar Live Band, Arrecife, Gran Hotel - Doblon Bar

9-2pm: Farmer’s Market, Mancha Blanca

3-5pm: Jazz session at The Crafty Cow (PDC) with Los Hunos featuring Collie Farrell Catholic Mass Costa Sal, Matagorda, First Sunday of the Month at 4pm. Other Sundays at 5pm

9-2.30pm: Market, Haría, Plaza 10-2pm: Traditional Market, Uga 10-2pm: Market at La Recova, Tias, Plaza Anfiteatro El Pavón 8:30pm: Flamenco, Puerto del Carmen, Café La Ola

YAIZA

Visit us on Facebook

LZ-2 LZ-30 A

UGA

I ER

EL LL CA

LZ-30

We are on LZ 2 km Central Uga Yaiza 1

LZ-2

CIF

928 830 132.

34€ per kilogram, minimum order half a kilo. To place your order call

We are here

The ﬁrst smoke house in Lanzarote. First quality salmon smoked on the premises.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 69

There are five Fazz´s restaurants, four on Lanzarote and one on Fuerteventura. Each one offering the very finest Indian dining experience with Fazz´s winning formula. The Costa Teguise restaurant situated at Las Cucharas Beach Promenade is one of the most charming parts of Lanzarote, and the perfect place for a delicious meal in a tranquil setting And if Indian food is what you´re looking for, Fazz´s Indian Restaurant brings you the luxury and sensuality of Bengali cuisine in an attractive restaurant where you´ll be treated like royalty. All your favourite curries are available, as well as some new delicacies which will almost certainly become new favourites and all dishes are prepared in house by expert chefs. A symphony of spices and succulent ingredients, served to you while you enjoy the perfect holiday atmosphere, and friendly, helpful service with that personal touch that´s the Fazz´s experience.

Take Away Service Available

Go on and try it – you know you want to!

5 Course Lunch menu

Just 6.95€ per person

(Served 1pm – 3.30pm)

6 Course Early Bird menu

Just 8.95€ per person

New International Wine List Corralejo Marina C / Playa Cho Leon, Fuerteventura Tel: 928 536 857

Puerto Calero Marina Puerto Calero, Lanzarote Tel: 928 849 664

C.C. La Mulata, Playa Blanca, Lanzarote Tel: 928 349 463

C.C. Aquarium Puerto Del Carmen, Lanzarote Tel: 928 510 385

(Served 6pm – 7.30pm) Las Cucharas Beach Promenade (Back of Barcelo Galea Hotel) Costa Teguise, Lanzarote. Tel: 928 346 482

rt &

Culture

Arty Party

Exhibition Extended until the 16th April

Christian Honerkamp’s exhibition ‘Lanzarote Arte’ has been extended until Thursday the 16th May 2015 due to popular demand. Christian Honerkamp has lived and exhibited on Lanzarote and Germany since 1993. His latest exhibition is being held at The Casa de la Cultura Benito Pérez Armas in Yaiza. You can visit the exhibition from Monday to Friday between 9am and 2pm and 5pm and 7pm - Saturdays it is open from 11am till 2pm. Christian will be available between 11am and 2pm daily, should you have any questions regarding his artwork.

Eighth Island 10th to 12th April It’s only logical that La Graciosa, the “eighth Canary island” would join Lanzarote in hosting a triathlon. The unspoiled northern isle offers amazing landscapes, clear waters, and rough terrain that challenges any athlete. The Eighth Island challenge, which takes place this month from the 10th to the 12th of April (after adverse weather conditions led to the postponement of the event in February), is a cross-country race in which participants swim into Caleta de Sebo and then climb onto tough mountain bikes rather than sleek racers, heading out over dirt tracks up to Pedro Barba and looping round the north of the island back to the tiny capital. Then there’s a gruelling run on a sand track out to Playa de la Cocina and back. There are 31 kilometre, 20 km and 8 km races, as well as a Kids challenge, and for athletic fans there’s no better opportunity to discover the delights of Lanzarote’s unspoilt northern neighbour.

CLOSING CONCERT 16th April On Thursday the 16th April there will be a concert to close the exhibition at 8pm with Lydia Lauren singing live, all welcome.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 71

La Casa de los Arroyo

Sounds from the Centre Various Dates

Isora: Princess of Whales

While Lanzarote’s resorts and Arrecife regularly move to the beat of bands and DJs every weekend, the two towns that lie in the middle of the island have a more sedate style, but there’s still plenty to hear in San Bartolomé and Teguise this month. Teguise is the home of the timple museum and still a vital centre for Canarian folk music, but this spring San Bartolomé has matched the excellent programme that Teguise has been offering with its ClasMu programme of Canarian folk music. This month you’ll be able to see one of Lanzarote’s best timplistas, Domingo Corujo, on the 4th and there’ll be a special concert featuring young musicians from the island’s conservatory on the 11th. Just a couple of miles away, Teguise also offers folk music, with Juan Carlos de Mulder performing on the ancient arch lute at the Museo del Timple on the 8th. But Teguise will alo be rocking in April. The Teguise Music Showcase on the 11th will bring together some of the most popular bands on the island for 12 hours of music on three separate stages. And on the 25th, the sounds of 80s Madrid come to Teguise’s Convento de Santo Domingo in a performance of the musical La Movida Madrileña, which celebrates the vibrant, punk-inspired sounds of the fledgling Spanish democracy.

Until 7th April The Casa de los Arroyo, next to the Hotel Miramar on Arrecife’s seafront, is a jewel that remains little known - even to many long-time residents on the island. But behind those sober antique wooden shutters is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture on the island – a perfectly preserved courtyard overlooked by pretty wooden balconies. Open Mon-Fri from 10 am to 3pm, there’s another good reason to visit the Casa before 7th April – a fascinating exhibition devoted to Isora, the matriarch of a pod of pilot whales. The Canaries has one of the most important breeding populations of pilot whales in the world, and Isora’s pod, which lives between the islands of Tenerife and La Gomera, was filed and photographed for over three years for the project. With amazing photos by Teo Lucas, as well as audiovisual material, the exhibition gives a glimpse into the lives of the biggest Canarians of all.

Asadero de M a c h eR R e s t a u r a n t

G r i l l

Live Music every Friday

A place where you can enjoy delicious food with views over the Mácher countryside down to the sea. Our specialities are char-grilled meat, fresh ﬁsh and seafood paella On Friday we have live music with a Canarian folk group from 9:00pm on.

Under New Management Asadero de Macher

Carretera Tías-Macher 110 Yaiza Mácher • Reservations: 928 527 260 • We open Tue - Sat from 1.00pm to 12am - Sun 1:00pm to 6pm • Monday Closed

| April 2015 | The Gazette

d ft nt an Gi e t es ke ree r P tic F a is ve h t ei c re

Open every day of the year from 10 am

We organise Birthdays, School Excursions and Group Parties Calle Gran Canaria (al lado de Lanzasur Club) Tel: 928-517533 ext 4000/4001 Email: direcci贸n@aqualava.net/taquilla@aqualava.net

sland

Maps

PARKING

HEALTH CENTRE

PHARMACY

POLICE

GOLF COURSE

PETROL STATION

CHURCH

BUS STATION

HARBOUR

CAMEL RIDES

TAXI RANK

AIRPORT

POST OFFICE

MARINA

WATER W SPORTS S

The The Gazette Gazette | January | April 2015 2015 ||

Business - Puerto del Carmen

• Credit Cards Accepted

BOTH ENDS OF PUERTO DEL CARMEN

BOOKSWOPS

Hotel San Antonio end, C.C Costa Luz - A6 Tel: 928 513 563

• 1000´s of Books, New & Second Hand • Up to 50% trade-in on our returns • Greeting Cards, Party Goods • Stationery, Kids Books • Fax & Photocopying Service +Boarding cards BS II.

Mon - Fri 9.30 - 17.00 & Sat 9.30 - 13.30

Closed Sundays

RUTA 66

Fariones Hotel end, corner of C/Timanfaya 1st floor Tel: 928 514 931

Great atmosphere, good music and the latest videoclips. Only a few meters from the beach. The best fun to be had - day and night in Puerto del Carmen

Avda de las Playas 19 Puerto del Carmen. Tel. 928 51 40 27

Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.00 & Sat 9.30 - 14.00

S I RLO

SA TEGUISE C/ PRINCE

CA C A

8 H

Old Town

r ones Fari ya laya Pla

RINC C/ P

Las Calas

CALLE PRINCESA ICO

APAY

C a C. fer os Bi

Aquari riu us us

Luz y Mar ar

C C.C Guanapay y

A La da lorriid FIAFlo

GUAN

A R D ILAM

L AL

N A

E A

TOG

AVDA

C.C Ta T ba aiib ba a . DE L AS PLA YAS

Pl a y a G r ande

a FREE de-worming with your pet’s vaccination or oral hygiene

NOS MOVEMOS POR TÍ - WE ARE THERE FOR YOU

902 300 400 10

• Diagnosis • Treatments • Vaccinations • Microchips • De-worming, etc. • Dog and Cat Grooming • Pet shop • Home visits

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Puerto Del Carmen Calle Juan Carlos 1, 33 (in front of Hiperdino) Tel. 928 070 421 Find us in

Smile Vet

Open Monday to Friday 08.00-20.00. Saturday 09.00-13.00. Email: 04902@grupomrw.com www.mrw.es

na A ena Ar C C Are C.C Dor Dorada

SPECIAL OFFER:

• Veterinary services

E A C

E CALL

a orra Fllo

CALLE

CAL LE TOG IO

Fenauso 3 35500 Arrecife Tel: 928 806 480 Fax: 928 806 480

ESA

Puerto del Carmen - Business THE ZAFFRAN GROUP OF INDIAN RESTAURANTS Authentic

Indian Cuisine I Indian Z Zaffran ff T Ta Tandoori specialties Indian ndian dian A Aroma rom Over 200 dishes ro We cook to Bollywood Children Menus your taste,

• • • • • •

mild or hot Gluten-free dishes also available

Bollywood Pto. Del Carmen – Avenida de las Playas 67 – Tel. 928 511 532 Near Café del Carmen

Indian Aroma Pto. Del Carmen – Avenida de las Playas 14 – C.C. Las Tabaibas – Tel. 928 528 405 Near Tito’s Bar

Avda. de Las Playas 67, Bungalow 1 (opp. S. Antonio Hotel) 7 Pto. Del Carmen Tel: 928 514 2 74 8 Calle Acatife 9 (opposite the Fariones Playa Hotel)

The British Surgery of Lanzarote offers a 24 hour medical service. If you need to see a doctor, you can come to any of our surgeries in Puerto del Carmen or simply call our FREEPHONE 900 811 555 number and ask for a home visit.

AC E A

GUISE ESA TE

HAG

CAL

Indian Zaffran Pto. del Carmen – C/Juan Carlos I, 25 – C.C. Olivin – Tel. 928 512 747. Near the Biosfera Commercial Center

General Practitioner 24 hr Ambulance E.C.G Pediatrician Orthopedic Surgeon Laboratory

R O C IE

S YA

C.C ta La Peñit

ALIA A. IT

AVD

D AV

O BARBA

DIA

LAN

CALLE

A C tl .C án ti co

a Lanzza ya laya Pla

FIN

E ANZU

inco Cin as azza Plla

H A

ELGIC CALLE B

CAL

CALLE

CALLE CESAR MANRIQUE

za laza Pla zul Azu

A FR

7 6

S os LA C.C L s E Drago A. D AVD

C UE

A PL

H Las Costtas

H San io t nio Anto

Matagorda

Puerto del Carmen

The Gazette | April 2015 | 77

Business - Puerto Calero

Enjoy our new menu

Bookings: Maxi Vidal - 928 513 181 Groups: Mariluz Pérez Fajardo - 928 513 243

AMURA

Enjoy the gastronomic experience we can offer you. It’s unique, it’s special. amura@puertocalero.com New and ample dining rooms where you can celebrate with your family, friends www.restauranteamura.com or business colleagues. Magnificent views to the Puerto Calero Superyacht area from our splendid terrace. Now try our Chef’s menu, a delicious off-menu Tel: 928 513 181 1 creation that we change every week, for only €32. Open Everyday Fax. 928 511 462

La PAPPARDELLA

Welcoming and friendly restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine. Only a few meters from the sea. Tel: 928 51 29 11

O IJ

Hesperia Hesp He sp per e ia a La Lanzarote anzzar a otte

Puerto Calero

• JAPANESE GRILL • SUSHI • SASHIMI • TEMPURA • TEPPANYAKI •

NOS MOVEMOS POR TÍ - WE ARE THERE FOR YOU

902 300 400 TRY OUR NEW JAPANESE TAPAS • The First Japanese Restaurant on Lanzarote • Established 1997 • Air conditioned • Open 6.30pm till late • Closed Monday & Sunday

| April 2015 | The Gazette

C/ Roque Nublo, See Puerto del 15, 1st Floor. Carmen Pto. Del Carmen map

(Old Town) Phone: 928 51 45 07

Open Monday to Friday 08.00-20.00. Saturday 09.00-13.00. Email: 04902@grupomrw.com www.mrw.es

Fenauso 3 35500 Arrecife Tel: 928 806 480 Fax: 928 806 480

Puerto Calero - Business

Discover the treasure in Puerto Calero

BEST ATMOSPHERE

CALLE PUERTO CALERO

Costa Calero

DEL ESTE CALLE ROQUE

LETA CALLE CA

We have many items on 2 x 1 promotion

CA LL EA LE GR AN ZA

Marina Puerto Calero Buda Tlf. 928 849 631 Puerto Calero - Lanzarote

Right on the Harbour

Marina UNIQUE FOR LANZAROTE, 4 Puerto Calero, SPECIALLY MADE FOR YOUR HOME Antiguo varadero 3 Tel: (34) 928 51 62 73. ELISAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OFFER 50% OFF email: solyarte@telefonica.net

CALLE PUERTO CALERO

PUERTO DEL CARMEN

O SEB DEL

CALLE

PANT

Commercial Centre

E CALL

5 ura Am

TEID

The Gazette | April 2015 | 79

Business - Tías

Qualified mechanics at your service in Tías. Open from 8am till 1pm and from 4pm till 7pm

We now

We speak Spanish, English & German

sell and ﬁt Tyres for all vehicles.

Visit us and check our special prices

We carry out all mechanical services including:

• Pre - ITV • Air conditioning refills • Diagnosis • Car wash • Fast service

Find us in Tias opposite the Ally shop. C/ Matorral Nº 5. Mobile: 659 88 54 51

Open from

Grooming month!

Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm

Shampoos Brushes/Combs Ear/Dental Cleaner New collars/leads

Sat 10am to 1.30pm

Get 1 flea spot on free for every grooming service by presenting this ad.

Medication, Surgery, Laboratory, Chip Scan, Old Age Check Up, Certificates, Vaccinations, Dog and Cat Dermatological Grooming. Top brand Pet Foods such as ACANA, 2 ROYAL CANIN, HILLS, IAMS, EUKANUBA. 20 years experience

Tias – Calle Fraternidad, 23 Tel. 928 833 990 - 629 356 514 veterinariatiaslanzarote@gmail.com www.veterinariatias.com We are also available on 629 356 514 with WhatsApp service

LZ Los ios irio Lir

AVDA. CENTRAL

N TR AL

LZ2 LZ2 A.

AVD

TR CEN

.C DA

CA LL

E P EREZ GA LD ÓS

MACHER YAIZA

AVD A.

CEN TRA L

Tías

CHEAPEST UK TOILETRIES, GREETINGS CARDS & GROCERIES ON THE ISLAND

A fantastic range of UK products, groceries, household, toiletries and pet products all at amazing prices.

Easter Eggs in stock Check out our website for prices & availability.

Soft & Gentle, Lynx, Sure, Supersoft, Nivea, Dove, Simple etc. Sharwoods, Pataks, Dolmio, Colmans, Heinz & many more.

CAN´T GET TO TIAS, ASK ABOUT OUR DELIVERY SERVICE. email: alittlebitbazar@gmail.com • www.alittlebitbazar.net

| April 2015 | The Gazette

12 C/Reyes Católicos, Tias. 6 928 524 744

FOR ALL INSURANCE NEEDS

Tel: 928 091 427

Calle Libertad 37A, Tias. Public Liability 0 Commercial 0 Home & Contents E : lucas@jennifercunningham.net 0 Car (Inc UK Reg) 0 Boat 0 Pet 0 Golf E : sheila@jennifercunningham.net 0 Travel 0 Life 0 Health Facebook: 0 Funeral Plans 0 Mortgage Protection Jennifer Cunningham Insurance Lanzarote 0

Tías - Business ED PEN REO

BUY OR HIRE NEARLY-NEW ITEMS FOR BABIES & TODDLERS Cafetería del Rinconcito Why not try our salads, sandwiches and home baking or pop in, relax with a friend and enjoy our afternoon tea for two? SPACE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR INFORMAL MEETINGS

Nearly-new maternity wear also available. Let us sell your unused items for you. Open from Mon - Fri 10:30 - 18:30

L C EN TR A A

CALLE LIBERTAD

a eríía Ferret ore DIY st

AVDA. CENTRAL, Nº 101 EN TÍAS 928 832 047 638 416 233

mamycoachlanzarote@gmail.com

C/Islote De Hilario, 10 - Tías Tlf. (0034) 928 833 945 Mobile 0034 672 54 30 64

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday and Saturday 9 - 17.00 Friday 9 - 21 - Sunday Closed

mamycoach

V D

Mamycoach Lanzarote

AND CALLE C

CELEBRATION and BIRTHDAY CAKES AVAILABLE TO ORDER! CONTACT US FOR INFORMATION.

F r hi Fo For h hire ree

Hip iperdiin no

. CENTRA L

AVDA. CENTRAL

CALL E SAN BLAS

3 D

RATERNIDAD LE F CAL

School School

E LL

ARRECIFE

LL E

SA N

Town T own Hall Hall

BL AS

Tias Monday - Friday 10:00 - 20:00 • Saturday 10:00 - 16:00

Tel : 928 833 299

Email: info@gangasoutlet.com

Web: www.gangasoutlet.com

Please message us on Facebook and give us suggestions of products you would like to see in our stores.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 81

Business - Playa Blanca

NOW OPEN AT SUN PARK LIVING

A fantastic range of UK products, groceries, household, toiletries and pet products all at amazing prices.

Easter Eggs in stock

Beauty Centre & Massage

CHEAPEST UK TOILETRIES, HOUSEHOLD & GROCERIES

ON THE ISLAND

OPEN TO ALL

email: alittlebitbazar@gmail.com

3, Calle Janubio, Playa Blanca 928 524 744

Playa Blanca, S.C. Punta Limones, loc. 20 Tel. 928 349 828 or 651 312 179

FEEL THE MAGIC OF MASSAGE! Open Mon-Sat 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm Closed on Sundays

MO LA

A LV

DE ON IC B RU za

L i DE Ya

o ar nz es a c L H rin P

GAYO

PAPA VDA.

4 5

O AR

U HIG

E LL

IAS

a fay an T i ma l a c e P

AR AN .C DA AV

7 2

| April 2015 | The Gazette

RIO

U HIG

Playa Blanca - Business Contact us without delay for a Competitive Quote and a Faultless Service

www.libertyinsurancespain.com

BOOKSWOP

• 1000´s of Books, New & Second Hand • Stationery • Up to 50% trade-in on our returns • Greeting Cards, Party Goods • Kids Books • Photocopying Service • Boarding passes printed

3 C. la Corvina Rd. opp. Church Tel/Fax: 928 349 420

Monday - Friday 9.30am-5.30pm Saturday - 9.30am-3.30pm Sunday - Closed

LIBERTY INSURANCE 0 0 0 0

T. 0034 928 944 789 1

Car Insurance 0 Home Insurance Calle Correillo 87, Playa Blanca. Life Insurance 0 Business Insurance Community Insurance 0 Boat Insurance E. libertyseguros@spectra247.com EXCLUSIVE AGENT: SPECTRA 247 S.L. Pet Insurance 0 Golf Insurance

rkk Park n Pa Sun Su g v ng vi Livi Li Living

te ro a z ss e nc

AVDA.

AYO

PAPAG

AVDA

. PAP A

GAYO AVD

AGA

AP A. P

a e sa n ce in Princesa P Pr Y izz a Ya Yaiza

AGA

P . PA

A AVD

C Papagayo C.

an lcá H Vo ote r Lanza

Playa Blanca

C C C.C R Rub ima mar

The Spanish tax man is actively chasing Tax on property! Do you own a property in Spain? IF YES, it is LAW to file a tax return annually! Even with € Zero Income! Act now to avoid fines, interest or your bank account being frozen! Sold your property at a loss? Claim your 3% tax refund now!

We speak English, Dutch and Spanish - Ciber Cafe

Visit our website or call for more information? mark.elwell 1

www.elwellassociates.co.uk

Elwell Associates Ltd

UK Tel: 0044 0121 288 3393 IE Tel: 00353 01442 9393 UK Mob: 0044 07969212250 ES Mob: 0034 671 324 010 ES Tel: 0034 928 548 787

• National and International cheap phone calls • Sim Cards • Mobile phone top-ups • Fax and Scanner service • We sell international calling cards • Internet • Photocopies • Preparation of documents and CV’s • Laminating • Translation Service • WE PRINT BOARDING PASSES

Calle Correillo 69 Playa Blanca Tel. 928 51 88 54

locutoriomundolatino@gmail.com

The Gazette | April 2015 | 83

Business - Costa Teguise

* Picture of a refurbished apartment. Refurbishment not included in the price.

• 1 Bedroom Apartments • 49 m2

.D EL AS

Barcelo Ba a rc r el eo La Lanzarote a nz nzar arot ar ott e Reso Re Resort sort so rtt 2

ERA

Address:

C/ Adefas s/n 35508 Costa Teguise Telephone: +0034 928 59 2006 E-mail: info@teguisol.com

M S PAL DE LA . A D V A

Dive H rhot e AVD

Be L Live ivve La Lanzarote a nz nzar a ott e Re ar Reso Resort sort so rtt H

A. D EL

ERAS

ue B llu Bay

Los s ino Mol

AVDA.

. DA

A LM

s ona Cor ya Pla

AVDA IL JABL . DE

e H Be Live Teguis Playa

Playa Bas ti án ll b li

Pla y a

l Ja

Punta Jablillo

Costa Teguise

ubscribe

SWEET memories!

Everything you would expect from a Newsagent & Book Shop and more... Expect thethe ...Expect Unexpected! Unexpected! Easter Eggs and Easter Cards - be quick selling fast ü Fabulous Selection of Greeting Cards for every occasion in your life ü Finest Choice of Retro Sweets on Lanzarote ü Great Location with easy-peasy parking ü Friendly, Approachable Staff ü Proud to be part of the Community Find us on Facebook

Opening Hours : Mon/Tues/Thur/Fri 8.30am-7.00pm – Wed/Sat 8.30am-5.00pm – Sun 8.30am-3.00pm

Avda. Del Mar Costa Teguise 626 409 365

Food Glorious Food - Favourite British Grocery Brands now available in COSTA TEGUISE - Open seven days a week.

| April 2015 | The Gazette

The

azette

The Canary Islands & Spain 2€ per month - Total 24€ per year

The Rest of Europe 8€ per month - Total 96€ per year

Delivered to your door every month from

€2

For Visa or cash payments please contact the office directly on:

+34 928 511 515 - classified@gazettelive.com Post details to: PRETINSA QUALITY S.L. Carretera Macher Pto. Del Carmen No.24, 35571 Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

A DEL M

inter - denominational

Sunday Worship 11am 11am at at the the Barceló Barceló Lanzarote Lanzarote Resort Resort -- Costa Costa Teguise Teguise www.sundayworshiplanzarote.com www.sundayworshiplanzarote.com

RELAXED & INFORMAL

PALM E LAS D . A D AV

APARTAMENTOS NAZARET

Hotel Barceló Avda de Mar ( for more information Tel: 928 833 382)

Come as you are, bring the kids. Wheel chair access (chairs from reception) and free shuttle bus at 10.45am, opposite Las Cucharas beach car park, close to Lanzarote Gardens (Map E7).

ERAS

With it´s familiar, local and yet modern style, Apts. Nazaret offers a personal and comfortable ambience, with special attention to making guests feel welcome. The ideal place for undisturbed peace, and a quiet and relaxing stay. www.apartamentosnazaret.com. email: info@apartamentosnazaret.com

Fic

.D E

CALL O DRAG E LOS

AVDA

MAR . DEL

Avda. Islas Canarias No 1 Tel: 928 59 08 68 3 Fax: 928 59 08 66

riz ri atttriz Bea H Be a ayyya Pla P Pl

S l So A Sol

AVDA JABL . DE

ILLO

s A Oasiis z n a L

z Na

e ar

EL .D DA

A AN

ISL bloro e e Pu rin a M

.D E

S CA NA RI C C.C AS uc haLa ras s

FREE WRITTEN

s Los L H Lo s os cos Z co Zo Zoc

s ds d and San Sa H QUOTATIONS ch ach Bea Beac

H Melia in all types of SPECIALISTS l as Cu Salinas e d a y cha a l P ROOF WORK & MAINTENANCE ra s We are a family-run Lanzarote based roofing business C that started back in the UK in 1988. los harcPlease call Lee Felt, slates/tiles, painting, rubberised solutions, solar for more info on o 648 046 890

to H Puer e ch Tahiic

panels, timber pergolas, guttering; downpipes and more.

JABL . DE

LO LO ILL B IL ABL N A JA P NT PU

radleyroofsolutions@gmail.com • Find us on

Calle del Catamaran, 6. 35508 Costa Teguise, Lanzarote

AVDA

ivve H Be L e Teguis aya Plla

Pla ya

R EL MA

Costa Teguise - Business

ILLO

Consulta Veterinaria

Los Charcos

ALWAYS LOOKING AFTER YOUR PETS

FREE WRITTEN QUOTATIONS

SPECIALISTS in all types of

OPENING HOURS: Mon-Thu 10am-2pm and 5pm-8pm Fridays 2pm-8pm - Saturdays 10am-1pm

In order to give each pet the time it deserves,

please make an appointment at Tel: 928 827 210

C.C. Los Charcos Local 30 Avda. Islas Canarias, Costa Teguise

ROOF WORK & MAINTENANCE 6

www.loscharcosvet.com

We are a family-run Lanzarote based roofing business that started back in the UK in 1988. Felt, slates/tiles, painting, rubberised solutions, solar panels, timber pergolas, guttering; downpipes and more.

radleyroofsolutions@gmail.com • Find us on

Please call Lee for more info on 648 046 890 Calle del Catamaran, 6. 35508 Costa Teguise, Lanzarote

The Gazette | April 2015 | 85

New properties required - we have buyers waiting...

'We can help you with every aspect of buying a property in Lanzarote, oﬀering honest advice and an unrivalled after-sales service. We oﬀer building and design services, holiday rental and property management/maintenance.'

D OL

Ref. 485 - PLAYA BLANCA

Ref. 206 - PLAYA BLANCA

Ref. 297 - PLAYA BLANCA

Private, spacious and modern 4 bed villa with private heated pool. Only 5 minutes walk into the town centre.

2 bed 2 bath detached house in the Faro Park area. Extended living space, landscaped gardens, private outlook.

Light and airy 2 bed first floor apartment located on Phase 1 of Marcastell. With private terrace and sea views from the bedroom, this property is charming and priced to sell.

PRICE: 420.000€

PRICE: 275.000€

Ref. 214 - PLAYA BLANCA CENTRAL A 2 bed 1 bath bungalow on the popular Jardin del Sol complex, only a 5 minute walk to the harbour, beach and town . Overlooking large communal pool.

COSTA PAPAGAYO A 3 bed 2 bath semi detached property with private pool and off street parking.

PRICE: 130.000€

PRICE: 238.000€

Ref. 356 - PLAYA BLANCA

Ref. 232 - PLAYA BLANCA 2 bed 2 bath house in Las Coloradas with sea views. Well maintained and improved. Quiet spot, popular area.

PRICE: 125.000€

PRICE: 265.000€

Ref. 444 - PLAYA BLANCA REDUCED 3 bed 2 bath semi detached house in Costa Papagayo with 1 bed 1 bath independent annexe. Private pool, sizeable plot, off street parking. Great value.

LOS CLAVELES 2 bed 2 bath semi detached property with great sea views. With 1 bed 1 bath separate independent apartment. Space and planning for a pool.

PRICE: 218.000€

Ref. 332 - PLAYA BLANCA

PRICE: 335.000€

F OF

D UN Ref. 479 - PLAYA BLANCA CENTRAL 4 bed 3 bath detached property on plot of 1080 m2 and with superb sea views. Access to large heated communal pool. In prestigious and central Las Margaritas. PRICE: 435.000€

Ref 302 - PLAYA BLANCA

Ref 304 - PLAYA BLANCA

CENTRAL

Ref 205 - PLAYA BLANCA

CENTRAL 2/3 bed, 2 bath bungalow in the popular

A 2 bed 1 bath larger style bungalow in ever popular Casas del Sol, near the old port. With heated communal pool, reception and tourist licence. Great price.

Solanza urbanisation. With roof terrace offering great sea views and access to the heated communal pool. Only 5 minutes walk into town. Great price PRICE: 190.000€, reduced from 245.000€

DETACHED 3 bed 2 bath two storey property on Faro Park. Offering a large plot, sea views from the upstairs terrace. Private heated pool, established gardens. Immaculately maintained and with many extras. PRICE: 355.000€

PRICE: 195.000€

MY Blue skies ahead

contents

HOME

Lanzarote has never been short of blue skies and sunny views, and at long last it seems as if the island´s property market is offering equally attractive prospects. The recovery is now officially on. For British buyers, currency exchange rates are increasingly favourable, and more and more of them are choosing to take that leap and invest in a place in the sun. But it´s also worth bearing in mind that the unregulated free-for-all that preceded the crisis is unlikely to be repeated. Lanzarote never suffered the abuses and illegalities that have permanently stained other parts of Spain, but the lean years seem to have rewarded trustworthy businesses, and potentially shady operators now seem to be long gone. It´s not a gold rush. Lanzarote favours those who are looking for stability, lasting value and quality of life, rather than a quick profit. But those who do want to invest will find everything they need to do so here. In short, it´s a great time to make a solid, long-term investment, supported by reliable professionals. If you want to make Lanzarote your home, My Home is the place to start.

88 90 92 94 96 98 100 102 104 107 108 110

Property Shorts Second hand First Choice Human Element Property Buyers Guide The Sound of Home Ethnic Style Outdoor Fun Pools - All a Pool can do Hot Tubs Colour Your Life Your Special Corner Gardening - Pot Luck

The Gazette | April 2015 | 87

roperty Shorts the Belgians (6.90%), Swedes (5.97%), Italians (4.73%), Norwegians (3.98%) Chinese (3.67%) and Romanians (2.66%). The latest report by Spanish property specialist Kyero also shows a different mix of nationalities, but still with British buyers in the majority at 51% of all foreign interest in Spanish property. According to the College of Registrars, the increase in demand for housing by foreigners demonstrates confidence in the Spanish housing market, and a renewed tendency to consider Spain as not only an attractive tourist destination, as it has traditionally been, but also an opportunity, as a result of the attractive price levels of recent years. The organisation predicts that the high level of demand by foreigners will be maintained over the next several quarters. The majority of the foreign buyers come from the eurozone, so in relative terms, the drop in the value of the euro does not affect them as they use the same currency. However, the Registrars pointed out that the nationalities whose countriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; currencies have benefited from the change in the value of the euro could see this as an additional incentive to purchase property in Spain, which could lead to an even greater increase in the already outstanding current figures.

British buyers lead recovery

13%

of all of the home purchases carried out in Spain in 2014 were made by foreigners, more than the figure registered in 2013, when they accounted for 11.15% of all transactions. In fact, this 13.01% figure for transactions carried out by foreigners last year represents a new year-on-year record and accumulates five consecutive years of growth. British buyers were once again the major investors, accounting for 16.72% of all the home purchases made by foreigners, followed by the French, with 10.27%, and the Russians, with 7.47%. Completing the top ten of idealista.comâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ranking are German buyers, in fourth place with 7.34% of the housing transactions, followed by

Canary mortgages increase Spanish Official statistics

indicate that 14,500 mortgages were agreed in November 2014, up 14.2% compared with the same month a year earlier. Andalusia and the Canary Islands, both of which are hugely popular with British buyers, saw the highest increase in mortgage approvals, with jumps of 25% and 26% respectively. Just under half of prospective British buyers were looking for a second home while nearly a quarter were thinking of relocating. Others were investors looking to buy a property to rent out. The most popular country for Britons looking

| April 2015 | The Gazette

to buy abroad continues to be Spain, followed by France. In fourth place comes Portugal and in fifth Italy. The US was in third place.

rating is 6.27 out of 10. The report finds that people who live alone say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re less happy than those who live with at least one other person. The same study reveals that the average household size is three people, fewer in households aged over 61. This means that, in total, and bearing in mind that most households have more than two members, the average happiness rating for Spaniards is 7.91. The study concludes that the determining factor for happiness in Spanish households is to live with more people, particularly family. The survey reveals a surprising level of happiness among Spaniards, despite the crisis and economic difficulties of the last few years. The fact that this happiness is closely linked to relationships and social links also underlines the gregarious nature of a friendly, family-oriented society.

Happiness is a large rental

The happiest households

in Spain live in large rented apartments, according to a new survey from Vivir en Flow. Specifically, people who rent houses larger than 90 square metres and live with more than three people rate their happiness at 8.31 on a scale of 1 to 10. At the opposite end are renters who live alone in houses smaller than 90 square metres and rent. In this case the average happiness

Under 45s abandon hope per cent of 51British

25 to 45 year olds think they have little or no prospect of ever owning a home in the UK, according to a new survey by Slater and Gordon Lawyers. The survey reveals the overheated state of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property market and underlines worries that at least a generation may be left out of the boom in home-ownership. The toll was particularly acute for people aged 35 to 44 who were still struggling to get on to the property ladder, with 40 per cent believing they will never be able to afford their own home, while one in five said they have been left totally disillusioned by the current state of the property market. Runaway property prices, the need to secure huge deposits and job insecurity were all highlighted as obstacles to climbing the property ladder, with young hopeful homeowners increasingly having to make major life changes to save for a property.

For an increasing number of younger buyers, one of those life changes could mean moving abroad, to countries where entry-level property is more affordable. Nearly one in three of the 2,000 under-45s asked said they were having to cut back on essentials, such as food and heating, at the end of each month, while a third had taken on extra shifts or another job to raise funds. A fifth have chosen to move back with their parents, while nearly half questioned were going without holidays.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 89

SFirst choice econd-hand

Throughout Spain, resale properties are leading the field, while new builds still struggle to find buyers. Good news for owners looking to sell on, and bad news for promoters, but what are the reasons behind the surge in interest in second-hand homes.

f the 316,928 property sales in Spain made in 2014, 62.7 per cent were resale and barely 37.2 per cent were new builds, according to statistics from the Property Registrars. The INE (Spanish Statistical Institute) also shows that sales of resale properties increased by 18.4 per cent while sales of new builds fell sharply by 16.9 per cent. And everything suggests these trends will continue during 2015. That means the gap between resale and new builds is getting wider and wider. Why? The main reason is price, with resales being slightly cheaper for the hard-pressed buyer.

Resales are generally between 5 and 15 per cent cheaper. In euros, “the difference between an average resale property in Spain and a new build is around €400 per square meter,” estimates the valuation company Tinsa. Furthermore, resale properties offer more room for negotiation when they belong to private sellersin particular over-valued properties bought during the boom years. The tax reasons that apply on mainland Spain, where VAT on new builds is generally higher than stamp duty on resales, don´t apply on the Canaries, where the IGIC on new sales is 1.5% less than the

stamp duty rate, but other factors favour resales. Location is one of them. Existing properties are often in the best areas, closer to facilities and surrounded by other home-owners. On the other hand, the sight of sparsely populated or almost empty new build complexes is guaranteed to put buyers off. However, a new property has one big advantage – the easier financing offered by developers and banks who own properties. New builds tend to have a developer’s mortgage that can be passed on to the potential buyer, and bank-owned properties can offer better financing conditions than any private buyer. Finally, new builds are selling less well simply because there haven’t been manyin recent years. However, construction is now on the increase and Bankinter estimates that new home sales will soon start rising as a result.

Puerto Chico,

stunning recently renovated frontline property with great sea views on this highly sought after exclusive community. 2 double bedrooms with built in wardrobes, modern shower room, living room, amazing double glazed roof fully ﬁtted kitchen with airconditioning and automatic opening rooﬂights, sea front garden. Price 280,000 euros. UK 0044 8006127603

Spain 0034 679 607482

Web site ; www.propertyforsalelanzarote.com E mail ; sales@propertyforsalelanzarote.com Ofﬁce address Local 15, Park Hotel, Playa Blanca. 90

| April 2015 | The Gazette

ADVERTORIAL

Teamwork & Trust “We’re here to sell homes, not put photos in our window.” Christofer, Daniel, Fa, Nina, Inma and Dan

Guatiza

Muñique

In-Max Real Estate Group can be found at C/José Antonio 115, Arrecife (next to Calzados Navarro), or go to www.inmaxlanzarote.com. Call: 928 663 291 or 606 408 166. The Lanzarote property market is now in full recovery. The Gazette spoke to the team at In-Max in Arrecife to discover what they have to offer buyers and sellers at an increasingly exciting time in the island’s property sector. n-Max was formed last year by Inma Domingo, a professional with over 15 years of experience in property sales on Lanzarote. She teamed up with colleagues Daniel Portieles, Mingnong Zheng (known to everyone as Fa), and added Nina Thayne, Dan Cao and Cristofer to the sales team. Now established in an attractive, airy office in Arrecife’s C/Jose Antonio, and with an impressive web presence, In-Max is already impressing clients with their professional service. The Gazette spoke to the team recently:

What can In-Max offer to property buyers and sellers on Lanzarote? Inma: We offer a comprehensive Property Assessment service from first contact to final sale. We´ve formed a good team who offer high levels of professionalism, as well as an honest, realistic approach. We´re here to sell houses, not fill our window with photos, and we have the contacts and networking ability to get the best prices and deals.

What sort of contacts do you mean? Daniel: We´re members of a real estate association, ACEGI, in the islands. If you choose to sell exclusively with us, we can immediately get in touch with a network of other businesses with whom we can share information. We also have franchises here and on Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and the presence of Fa also offers another advantage.

What do you bring to the team, Fa? Fa: I have close links to the Chinese community here, as well as with Chinese investors looking to invest in the Canaries. China is economically strong right now, and there´s a huge market of potential buyers we can present your property to.

How does a sale typically work? Daniel: First the client will contact us, either online or by popping into the office. We´ll agree to see the property and provide a professional valuation report, which will include the price range you can expect to sell within, as well as potential rental income. We´ll also take care of legal aspects.

Inma: Once we´ve agreed on a realistic price, we´ll immediately get the property out there where people can see it. Potential buyers can visit the house accompanied by a sales person who speaks their language. Once an agreement is negotiated, we can also help with finance recommendations,and guide the buyers and sellers to their desired outcome. We can also arrange rentals, and we´re looking to expand our franchise, with both online and physical companies. We´re extremely excited about the situation, and as we still want to be here in 30 years time, we´re already looking to the future, training young professionals here.

Is Lanzarote seeing a recovery? Inma: Yes. If you want to sell at a realistic market price, you´ll find a buyer.

Are your clients mainly local or foreign? Nina: We have many foreign clients, but the local market also seems to be picking up too, which is good news. I speak English, Dutch, German and French, as well as Spanish, and we are well aware of the main concerns of buyers. We´re a good team,and we want to share our expertise to as many people as possible.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 91

Le Corbusier

Location is not the only factor to take into account when buying a property. On Lanzarote, the human factor may be every bit, if not more, important. roperty buyers are now used to reading about ”assets”, “investments” and “potential returns,” but while financial considerations will always remain important, is it possible that we may be losing sight of the real purpose of homes? The famous architect Le Corbusier claimed to design houses that were “machines for living in.” His practical, functional buildings have been hugely influential on modern housing, and while they are not to everyone’s taste, he did put his finger on a

very important truth – houses are for human beings. Le Corbusier’s influence can be seen in Lanzarote in modern complexes, with open indoor-outdoor transition areas that are perfect for human interaction. That means that they should be able to accommodate all the things that human beings do every single day – not just the necessities such as sleeping, bathing and eating, but also those lessobvious human requirements such as socialising with families, relaxing in a calm environment and stimulating our highly-evolved aesthetic senses.

Human beings are highly social. Unless you are a hermit, you’ll not only have a family nucleus in your life, but also an extensive network of social links to friends and acquaintances. Some of these will be the people who live closest to us – those strange and fascinating creatures we call our neighbours. The idea of neighbours is still overwhelmingly positive. The fact that increasing amounts of people have little or no contact with their neighbours in many modern societies is generally seen as a negative development, and many British residents in

New ew Opening Hours - Monday to Friday from 8am till 8pm Saturday from 9am till 1pm

P e r s o n a l a t t e n t i on t o al l ou r c l i e n t s - So f as made t o meas ure in y o ur o w n ch o ice o f co lo ur & t a st e TEL: 928 834 041 FA X : 9 2 8 8 3 4 0 2 5 C / L I B E R TA D , 1 7 . T Í A S - i n f o @ g a l e r i a s l a u r a . c o m 92

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Spain have been pleasantly surprised by the more open, welcoming attitudes that Spanish show towards those who live nearby. Neighbourliness, in the form of lending a cup of sugar, knocking on the door of elderly people, or just nodding and saying “Good morning” (or “Buenos dias”) is still seen as a virtue, and although it´s one of those things that is never reflected in house prices, it’s something that can drastically affect your quality of life. Equally, bad neighbours can also turn a paradise into a hell on earth. Ideally, you need to get a good idea of the people you´ll be living close to. And don’t forget that, if you’re new to Lanzarote, you’ll be living in a country where you probably aren´t proficient in the local language and customs. The support of good neighbours can be absolutely vital in these first months and years.

To gauge the suitability of an area, try the following: • Ask the estate agent what kind of people have bought in the area you are interested in. Are they retired, young families or single professionals? Chat to a representative of the Community Association. This owners’ group is obligatory in complexes with shared facilities, and will give you a good idea of how the complex functions. • Look around the local neighbourhood to get a broad idea of the atmosphere. Chat to locals to get an objective idea of the area. • Find out if there are any timeshare properties nearby, which could have lots of different owners, or whether other owners have bought to rent? You will need

to know if you are going to have lots of transitory neighbours. • Take the season into account – many resorts can be very different in high summer than they are in low season. • Ensure that you have basic levels of privacy. Remember that the saying “Good fences make good neighbours” is every bit as important in Spain as it is at home. • Find out which leisure facilities are nearby. These can provide great opportunities for socialising, but can also create problems in terms of nuisance.

Passionate Professional In Property

Brent Hart, A.R.I.C.S Chartered Surveyor Exclusive Property Sales & Project Management

The New Garden Fence Nowadays, instead of leaning on the garden fence and chatting to our neighbours, we’re probably more likely to do it on Facebook or Whassap. Some complain about the lack of physical interaction, but others realise that these tools provide an amazing way to get in touch with new friends, find out vital information and build social networks. If you haven’t already, learn to use them.

Construcciones CASAS YAIZA S.L.

With over 30 years experience we ensure clients recieve reliable, dedicated and professional services from start to finish with financial control for your peace of mind.

Long established specialist in all Constructors types of general building works and founders of from new villas to alterations, the company over extensions, refurbishments 3 generations Including swimming pools, patios & exterior stone walls.

Sale of Exclusive Properties & Design and Build on prime plots

C/ Lituania No. 1 - Playa Blanca Zona Industrial Urb. Montaña Roja

TEL: (00 34) 636 708 136 • EMAIL: brentlanzarote@yahoo.co.uk

TEL: (00 34) 928 518 076 • EMAIL: casasyaiza@yahoo.es

WORKING TOGETHER TO OFFER YOU THE BEST SERVICE The Gazette | April 2015 | 93

roperty buyers Guide

This article is intended as a general guide to buying real estate in The Canary Islands. It has been compiled from the knowledge and experience of a number of professionals involved in the selling, buying and conveyancing of property in Spain, but it should not be taken as a substitute for proper legal advice. It is intended only as an explanation of the system, customs and practice which you will come across, should you be interested in buying a home on the islands. DECIDING THE LOCATION

You need to decide whether your property is intended for holiday use, longer term visits, or whether you intend to live here year round. Your choice of location should take your needs into account, such as schools, medical services and recreational outlets.

CHOOSING THE PROPERTY You need to know a great deal more about your property than you would if you were just spending a couple of weeks there. If there is a community association, ask your neighbours if it is well run. Ask about the community fees - don’t forget that if you are in a Community you are legally obliged to pay them or you could lose the property.

| April 2015 | The Gazette

BUYING THE PROPERTY

The first essential thing before you part with a penny is to make sure that the person selling you the property is entitled to do so. Any agent worth his salt will have carried out a basic search and will be able to show you that this is correct. Your agent will be able to supply you with a list of suitable Lawyers to act on your behalf, the British Consulate in Las Palmas will provide a suitable list on request, if required. Your lawyer needs to check out your intended property thoroughly. The process is not dissimilar from the UK and a check of legal title will be made through a search in the local Land Registry Office which will also indicate if there are any mortgages or charges against the property. If you are buying a plot of land, the lawyer will also check if you can obtain permission to build on the land and what size and type of property you can build; there are zoning controls on this island as well as anywhere else and an old document presented to you pertaining to be planning permission may well have changed in the interim period. Once you have been assured by your lawyer that all is in order, you will need to sign a Contract of Purchase raised by a lawyer, and pay a deposit which is usually 10% of the intended purchase price; this deposit is normally held by the lawyer who has been appointed to arrange the signing of the Title Deed. The contract will state the terms and conditions of the sale and will state a specific time for completion of the transaction when you must produce the balance of the price. If for any reason you decide, up to this completion time that you cannot proceed with the purchase, you will forfeit the deposit paid, but if the seller changes his mind, he must return the deposit to you in full, plus a compensation payment for

damages. Obviously if a lawyer is holding these funds, there’s no problem in the purchaser’s deposit being refunded. The next step is to complete the transaction by making the outstanding balance of payment and signing the title deed, which is known in Spain as the Escritura; this must be done in the Notary’s Office. The Notary’s task is to ensure that all of the legal documentation is correct, he will also carry out a search in the Land Registry Office on the day of signing to check the current status of the property or land, (and will require the last annual rates receipt from the council in which the property is situated), that this is up to date as well. It is essential to ensure that your lawyer has current receipts for all other payments such as water, electric and community charges, as debts such as these in Spain are levied against the property and not the owner. When in the Notary’s Office, you will be asked to produce your passport as evidence of identification. You will also be advised to obtain a NIF number, Numero Identificación Fiscal, which your lawyer can arrange for you.

PAYING THE PRICE If you are not a resident in Spain and are buying property or land it is advisable to bring your money from abroad to complete the purchase, it is simple to open a non-resident account in a local bank, and your estate agent will normally help you with this. You can then transfer your funds from your own bank in the UK, to this new account. On the signing of the new Title Deed your cheques for payment will be shown to the Notary and included as part of the documentation of the deed. They must be inscripted with details of the property of land to be purchased, or have an

investment certificate from the issuing bank attached. The Notary will also require you to sign a Spanish ministry form, declaring that the investment has been made. It is also possible when purchasing from a non-Spanish resident, to pay the completion funds abroad in any currency. In this case, the deed will state an equivalent amount in Euros as this gives the value in which the transmission tax (stamp duty) is calculated. You will have to produce more than one cheque as you will be liable for capital gains tax. In this situation a sum of 3% calculated against the value declared in the title deed will need to be retained and paid to the Spanish Tax Authorities. The Estate Agents fees are normally paid by the vendor and the details of the specific percentage to be paid will normally be noted in the Purchase Contract. Beware, some unscrupulous illegal agents have been known to charge the purchaser as well as the vendor for their fees. You may well also find that the price of your title deed is not exactly the same as the cost of the purchase, as some sellers prefer to treat the furnishings and fittings, if they are included, as a separate item.

REGISTERING THE PURCHASE Signing the escritura in the Notary office does not yet mean that you officially own the property. For the transaction to be complete you must register the deeds in the Registro de la Propiedad (Property Registry). When the deeds are taken to the Registro, the purchase tax of 6.5% of the value of the property must be paid. Later the Registro will write to whoever presented the documents and ask for a second payment to cover their charges. In addition, a tax to the Local Authority, based on the increase of values of land in their area since the property last changed hands (known as ‘Plus Valia’) is payable. This is often negotiated between the vender and purchaser. Your Lawyer can get an estimate in advance of the purchase, so that you have the funds ready. At the same time, a form should be entered to the local authority, advising them of the change of ownership. You

should remind whoever is doing your paperwork about this, as it is often forgotten. Residents must alo be tax registered in order to sell property and avoid retentions, even if they pay no tax.

COSTS TO LOOK OUT FOR Other bills which will have to be paid include the Transmission Tax, the Notary’s bill, the fees from the Registro and the bill from your Lawyer, will probably come to about 10% of the purchase price. Your Lawyer will ask for these funds to be placed with him before the work is done, as too many times clients disappeared leaving these bills unpaid. Non-residents will be liable for property tax, while residents will pay the IBI assessed by the local council. However, it cannot be stressed enough, though, that you should deal in these matters with a professional person who is well established.

THE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Spain has firm laws on how a Community Association shall be run, and you can find useful advice in English on this subject at www.c-euro.org and www.spainlawyer.com. Information about your Association has to be freely available to you, as do the accounts which have to be published to the members every year. Belonging to a Community Association brings many advantages to the owner who does not intend to live in the property year round, as you can be sure that

someone will be keeping an eye on things when you are away. Should you be buying a property on an ‘Urbanisation’ you will find that there is a Community Association, of which you must become a member. Each property owner on the site owns a percentage of the communal areas, and is responsible for making a payment to the Association for their upkeep. You should check before you buy that your Community Association is functioning well, how much the monthly payment is, and whether the payments for your intended property are up to date. If these payments are not made the Association can eventually seize your property, so be careful.

OUTSTANDING BILLS When you buy a property you become liable for any outstanding bills for water, electricity, local rates and community fees. Both the Electricity Board (UNELCO) and the Water Company (CANAL GESTION) have forms which you and the seller must sign, to transfer the bills into your name. When you go to do this you should check that all payments are up to date. Local rates are payable at the Town Hall. You or your representative needs to visit the ‘Oficina de Recaudacion ’ at the Town Hall to give them the form changing the rates into your name, and again, checking that all payments are up to date. As bills are not sent out for the rates, property owners often forget to pay them, and they can soon mount up.

www.lanzaroteinvestments.com email: listings@lanzaroteinvestments.com

Sell

your property

in 90 days

* Average sales period for our Sole Agency Listings

Call our Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen ofﬁces now! Puerto del Carmen office: 928 51 62 38 43 Avenida de la Playas, Puerto del Carmen.

Open Mon-Fri 9am to 7pm & Sat 10am - 2pm

Playa Blanca office: 928 98 72 20 135, Calle Limones. Playa Blanca. The Gazette | April 2015 | 95

The

Sound of

Home

How your home sounds can be every bit as important as how it looks.

hink of the taste of home cooking, the smell of your mother´s perfume, the welcoming snugness of a favourite sofa or armchair, and you´ll realise that home is a deeply sensual concept. But there´s one sense that we seem to forget when planning our homes – hearing. Sound can work both ways to affect us. Welcoming, ambient sounds can improve our mood and aid us to relax, but intrusive, exterior sounds can also ruin our enjoyment. That´s why “quiet” is such a perennial favourite on estate agents listings. But like a neutral colour background, once we have that silence, we can then tweak it to our own tastes, introducing the sounds we want.

Perhaps the most popular ambient sound is that of water – a fountain, a gently lapping pool or the bubbling of a hot tub all make us feel relaxed and cool. Wind can be channeled to create attractive sounds of leaves rustling in a breeze, and if you´re the sort of person who likes the ambient sounds of windchimes, you´ll have plenty of opportunity to use them on Lanzarote. The sounds of wildlife are always popular, but on Lanzarote you´ll have to focus on planting the right flowers, shrubs and trees if you want to attract the murmur of bees or the joyful twitter of birdsong. If you prefer more structured sounds that you can control completely, then why not think about getting some outdoor speakers? Loudspeaker technology has recently improved to such an extent that it’s possible to have affordable outdoor systems that won´t require endless cables, special protection or even a connection to a hi-fi. A highfashion item like the Jawbone Jambox, for example, can be charged from a USB port, used anywhere and controlled from any Bluetooth device. The choice of music you decide to play outdoors is, of course, entirely up to you, but if you have neighbours, it´s a good idea to bear them in mind before you start heavy metal sunbathing!

{

It usually pays to look before you leap

The Euro Coin Operated Electronic Meter The Em-Lite Coin Meter is exclusive to Property Solutions for the whole of the Canary Islands It has Timer or Consumption based options and is an excellent way to be environmentally friendly and help control your electric bills, especially in rental properties where items like air-conditioning can be left on 24/7. The money generated can then be used towards your next bill. So the unit will

pay for its self within 2/3 months especially during the summer period. The meter can also be very effective for landlords to help guarantee no excessive electric bills. The unit is manufactured under UKAS accredited ISO 9001 and ISO14001 systems. Being MID approved this new meter meets all relevant OFGEM and EU legislation in relation to the resale of electricity. Also now available for an extra 5 euros is an extended terminal cover for the wiring. Each unit has a two year guarantee from

the date of purchase and once fitted can be swapped for a replacement unit without calling out your electrician. (Subject to the units seals remaining unbroken) For lots more information please email the address below and ask for all the fitting and technical specifications both in Spanish and English. *We also have a fully qualified electrician who will survey your property and fit the units for the best return on your investment. (*Not included in the meter price)

Take control of your bills today, contact us for more information. Tel: (0034) 928 519 719 (0034) 679 607 534 Email: info@lanzarote-propertysolutions.com 96

| April 2015 | The Gazette

}

HOME Lanzarote is a part of Europe that lies off the coast of Africa with centuries-old links to South America. So it’s no surprise that influences from all over the world play a part in the island’s culture, and equally no surprise that you can make the most of them in your home. n days gone by, ethnic décor was a very different prospect. Ornaments, fabrics and furnishings from farflung corners of the empire were highly valued for their exotic nature and proudly displayed as symbols of a household´s wealth and good taste. This explained fashions for chinoiserie, Indian damasks, the popularity of ivory, ebony, tortoiseshell and countless other materials. The results were sumptuous and had the same influence on interiors as exotic spices had on foods – bringing new sensual possibilities and evocative hints of travel. More recently, this foreign influence on design has been christened “ethnic”, but what does this word really mean? After all, every single human being is a member of one ethnic group or another. Just as the music industry successfully marketed “world music” to buyers, even though there´s still no music from anywhere else, so “ethnic” has become shorthand for overseas influences.

| April 2015 | The Gazette

radition Counts

working out how to balance all these magnificent ideas in your home. Ethnic style can easily be overdone, leading to a hodge-podge of clashing items that don´t really hang together. You´re better off choosing a particular source, such as Mexican, Indian or Chinese, from the beginning, and making that your main focus. You can add items from other styles, of course, but make sure you choose well. The possibilities are endless. As always, a focal point to decorate around will be

“

an advantage. It can be an amazing piece of furniture, a painting or even a magnificent carpet – but ensure other items complement it. Colour schemes are important. Most ethnic styles can be very vivid, but even though many colours are involved, there are still combination that work perfectly together. Think of the way bold reds work with pale pastels and watery silks in Chinese design, for example, or how Moroccan interiors combine rich blues and turquoises with reds and metallic colours, combined with those endlessly fascinating Arabian patterns.

“

Ethnic also carries a strong element of tradition. Japan is one of the most modern societies on the planet, but when we talk about “Japanese ethnic” we´re referring to traditional items such as kimonos, fans and tatami mats. None of this is surprising, though. The traditional only become traditional because it has proved so appealing and successful. But it´s true that, in recent years, ethnic styles have come ever closer to our front door. Globalisation is one reason, with many suppliers importing beautiful and fascinating items from many thousands of miles away. Human movement has also meant that we can find Indian fabrics, Chinese decorations and many other influences on our High Streets. On Lanzarote, there is already a traditional local style which can still be seen in older fincas and homes all over the island. It´s strongly influenced by Spain. Of course, but there are also strong influences from Portugal, North Africa and even Latin America. Moroccan décor is perfect for an island that is only 100 kilometres away from this treasure house of beauty and style. From decorative tiles to classical brass ornaments, from wooden and leather items to magnificently woven rugs and low divans, the styles of the Casbah are perfectly suited to the climate, the light and the lifestyle of Lanzarote. But here on Lanzarote it´s every bit as easy to find beautiful items from China, Thailand or other countries in the Far East. Your only problem may be

We have always looked overseas for beautiful things. Now they’re at our front door.

Furniture and Handicrafts

for your

Home

Arrecife – Calle Nestor de la Torre, 30 – near Eurospar Supermarket - Tel : 928 81 63 96 macassar30@gmail.com – Find us in Facebook

Macassar Lanzarote • Opening Hours Mon to Fri 10 am to 2pm & 5pm to 8pm Sat 10am to 2pm

The Gazette | April 2015 | 99

Spring is here

time to add colour to your home

Open Air FUN

The Sofa Specialists Made to measure Free delivery and removal of old sofa

On Lanzarote, the indoors blurs with outdoors, and you can have some real fun playing with furnishings and decoration.

Everything for your home in Lanzarote and as always... The best prices.

We Speak English Monday to Friday 9am till 8pm Saturday 10am till 2pm Find us in the heart of San Bartolome, only a few steps from the Ayuntamiento

C/ San Simón, 44 - San Bartolomé Tel.: 928 520 405 info@mueblessansimon.com www.mueblessansimon.com 100

| April 2015 | The Gazette

t César Manrique´s home in Tahiche is a room with a window overlooking the massive volcanic lava flow that the house is built around. Manrique has cleverly placed a large chunk of lava in the room itself, making it look as though the lava is advancing into the house. It´s an amazing visual trick, but it is also a reminder that on Lanzarote, the boundaries between indoors and outdoors are never fixed. And with summer on the way after one of the cooler winters in recent memory, that´s going to be truer than ever. Soon we´ll be wanting to get outside, have some fun, relax in the open air – but we´ll also want privacy, convenience and many of the advantages of indoor life. Fortunately, that´s easier than ever. The boundaries between indoor and outdoor furniture aren´t really so important here, and items that would normally be kept indoors can easily be placed outside temporarily without too much damage.

Make sure the furniture is relatively hard-wearing and durable, and avoid items with fabrics that will rapidly fade in direct sunlight, and you should be OK, but these criteria apply to an increasing amount of indoor furniture as well. Lanzarote´s informal lifestyle means that furniture should be mobile, as well as fun. Don´t overlook items such as beanbags, which can be plonked down anywhere you like, and portable, stackable chair and tables are perfect if you plan to do a lot of entertaining. That sense of fun can also be seen at Manrique’s other house in Haria, where a classic 60s hanging bubble chair can be seen, as well as strangely shaped bright orange pool seats. You don´t have to follow this space age theme, but do remember that this is an island where you’re far more likely to get away with weird, wonderful shapes and bright, vivacious colours and patterns. So give your sense of fun full rein when decorating your Lanzarote home – after all, if you can´t do it here, where can you do it?

BRILLIANTLY R EDESIGNED

2014 Highlife ÂŽ Collection & Highlife Collection NXT Spas

A Revolutionary New Design

About BMW Group DesignworksUSA

The new Hot Spring Collection was designed with help from the experts at

An acquisition of the BMW Group, DesignworksUSA

BMW Group Designworks USA.

is a creative consultancy that has been driving

The new design is stylish, functionally simple, and comfortable.

innovation for over 40 years. In addition to designing

With meticulous attention to detail From the flowing waterfall design at each

BMW vehicles, DesignworksUSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s client list includes

corner to the new Moto-Massage faceplate, jets, levers and pillows, the

internationally renowned brands.

Highlife Collection is harmoniously designed with purpose behind every detail. Visit our show room in Playa Honda to see the latest models.

Economical Pool Heating

TITANIUMHEATPUMPS www.titaniumheatpumps.eu

Aquadreams - Pure liquid pleasure Tel: 928 822 057 or 661 960 307 - www.aquadreams.eu

Playa Honda - No.7 C.C. Las Chimidas (Just past Deiland Shopping Centre)

Pool CAN DO ALL A

Swimming pools aren’t just for taking a dip in these days - the days when they just sat there being a status symbol are long gone - and today’s pools have to work for their living.

oday they multifunction as fitness areas, at-home spas, and water features. So when you decide to put one in your outdoor space, you'll be installing something that´s not just fun, but also beautiful and practical. Imagine, if you will, an outdoor space that also functions as your gym. No more having to trudge down the road before or after work

Manufacturers of ELITE AUSTRALIAN POOL COVERS for the last 10 years deluxe

Windbreaks Sunblinds See our website or call to find out about our unbelievably low prices 102

| April 2015 | The Gazette

www.soltexcanarias.com info@soltexcanarias.com Find us on sol tex canarias

Manufactured to last Call James for a free quote on: 928 072 029

- you simply have to slip into a cossie and jump into a pool that has an optional 'current' running through it so that you will get the same intensive fitness experience as if you were swimming in the sea. It's great for an all over body workout, and when you're done, you can simply get out and go shower. Voila! Your workout is done and you were probably having too much fun to notice!

Keep Kids Safe Knowing how to swim is a vital skill that all children should learn. Swimming can help kids build confidence, master a fun activity for both play and sport, and learn safety in the water, which can be lifesaving. Introducing children to the water as babies is a great way to help them overcome fear and enjoy being in the water, which can prepare them for swimming lessons when they are old enough to benefit from them. Remember nothing is more important than an adult watching a child at all times, distraction free, no phones, kindle or other appliances! to ensure their safety. Stay alert and be vigilant when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re with your kids at the pool, and everyone is bound to have a great time.

n Let

it all Soak Away

It's the same with the spa. You return home from work after a painfully stressful day when nothing has gone right and you feel like you are about to pass out, and within ten minutes your pool, which has a spa and jacuzzi function, is on, you are in it and you are restored to your normal feeling of calm. What's more, the effects it has on the condition of your skin are noticeable, improving the condition, and feel. A pool that also features a jacuzzi makes entertaining that little bit more special too. A small drinks party can mean a glass of bubbly in the hot tub, and it is a chance for everyone to relax and get to know each other in an informal way. It really puts the feeling of fun back into outdoor living. And it means that when you are making the sort of investment that you will get much more out of it than just somewhere where the kids can splash around.

n Liquid

Beauty

And then there are the aesthetic benefits to be had from installing a pool in your outdoor space. Water, generally speaking, makes people feel more relaxed, so whether you go for an all out multi-feature pool, or a small fountain, you will be adding to the ambience of your outdoor space. This is especially true if you choose a water feature or pool that has the added benefit of running water sounds. Better than any outdoor sound system, we say. And there are numerous elements to be enjoyed from your own designed pool aside from the functional features. When you choose to invest in a pool you will consider its style and shape but you will also make a decision on what shade of tiles are used in it, and then your will have to make a decision about the kind of decking that is used around it. In fact, what is around a pool has just as much effect on the way the pool looks itself. It's all very well having a beautifully designed brand new pool, but you don't want what is outside it to let the side down!

For an honest quotation & advice call us on:

Tel: 928 833 338 www.piscinasdirect.es Find us on Facebook

ENCLOSURES - COMMERCIAL TITANIUM HEAT PUMPS

POOL LINING, ALJIBE LINING, POOL COVERS, AUTO COVERS, ENCLOSURES, HEAT PUMPS, SOLAR PANELS, SALT WATER CHLORINATORS.

E-mail: piscinasdirect@hotmail.com The Gazette | April 2015 | 103

The advantages of hot tubs for relieving muscular pain and arthritis are well known, but did you know that a good soak can also help with sleep problems? nsomnia is the second most common reason for people visiting their doctor (pain tops the list), and the National Sleep Foundation has stated that 38% of men and 48% of women in the UK suffer from sleep disorders such as insomnia more than once a week. As anyone who´s suffered from it knows, insomnia is frustrating, disturbing and takes a real toll on our ability to function properly during the daytime. It´s also one of those disorders that we seem to know instinctually is better solved by natural methods, rather than dosing ourselves with chemical tranquilisers. Insomnia causes mood swings, depression and

104

| April 2015 | The Gazette

can also have serious effects on our memory. Look at your body as if it were your mobile phone – if you don´t recharge it regularly, performance will suffer. Sleep is that recharging period, and you can help prepare for it in many ways. However, according to the specialist magazine. Sleep, a drop in body temperature before going to bed can help to ease you into along and nourishing slumber. Soaking in a hot tub about 90 minutes before going to bed encourages your body´s natural thermostat to “reset” itself, lowering your temperature and allowing you to slip off to dreamland much more easily. Hot tubs are perfectly suited to this process, as

they allow you to heat your body to a temperature that is just higher than the normal body temperature. A sauna, for example, would raise the body’s temperature too high, making your system “race” and causing it to take much longer to get back to normal. Just 15 minutes soaking in a hot tub an hour or so before you go to bed can be a really effective way of achieving restful sleep. Not only does the temperature do its work, but the sensual sensation of water gently massaging your body lulls you into a relaxed, secure state of mind. The next morning you´ll awaken refreshed, with a clear head and the energy to take on all that the day ahead throws at you.

ADVERTORIAL

Living the dream with

Hot tubs offer unsurpassed pleasure, health benefits and mental relaxation. If you’re thinking of investing in a personal spa, then a trip to the Carabela Hot Tubs showroom in Playa Blanca is an absolute must. arabela is a family business run by Andy and Eva based in Playa Blanca, next to the new Information Centre. Their aim is to help everyone achieve the dream of owning their own hot tub, and making the experience of being a hot tub owner as simple and trouble-free as possible. America is currently the leader in hot tub technology, which is why Carabela stock imported tubs manufactured with high quality American materials. They´re durable, attractive and so varied that you’re sure to find a model that is absolutely perfect for you. Carabela stock a range of tubs, and can order other models from their detailed brochure. Orders can also be made to measure, so don´tr be afraid to ask for exactly what you want. If you´re new to the hot tub game, Andy and Eva will help you with honest practical recommendations and advice about everything you may need to know, from the best place to locate the tub, to how to

maintain it on a daily basis. With a comprehensive aftercare service and full warranties, you needn´t worry about being left high and dry while you´re soaking wet!

“Carabela Hot Tubs offer the highest quality with full warranties and aftercare” All Carabela Hot Tubs come complete with free installation; control systems and heaters from the reputable US company Balboa; Aristech acrylic shell, a practical and energy-saving hot tub cover; MP3 jack and twin pop-up speakers so that you can relax to your favourite tunes; stainless steel jets; attractive and safe colour-coded

steps and, appropriately for Lanzarote, volcano black coloured skirts. Also included is a 12 piece LED lighting package, giving you a practical and economic, but above all beautiful, display of ambient lighting that will last for up to 10 years. Reclining lounge seats are also available if you want to really lie back and look at the stars while you feel the warmth and massage jets ease your aching muscles. Carabela are also committed to health issues. They will, of course, not only provide you with full details about how to keep your tub clean; but they are also holding a twoday Certified Pool and Spa Operators Course on the 12th and 13th of May by a National Swimming Pool and Spa Foundation Instructor. This is the most widely recognised qualification in the industry. Visit Carabela Hot Tub's showroom in Playa Blanca, call 638 906 704, email: carabelavillamanagement@yahoo.com or visit www.carabelavillamanagement.com

The Gazette | April 2015 | 105

Q AS UA GU S LI AR UR TY AN ED TE E WINDOW & CONSERVATORY SPECIALISTS

Pergolas

Great reasons to choose

MILNROW WINDOWS

Multifold Doors

1. Lanzarote’s longest established window company 2. Quality & Value which cannot be matched

Shutters

3. We are a family run concern 4. Over 43 years in business 5. We don’t employ high pressure sales people

Doors

• INSTALLATION - 43 YEARS IN WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFS • FABRICATION - OVER 10 YEARS • ESTABLISHED OVER 13 YEARS IN LANZAROTE P DESIGN P SURVEY P DELIVERY P INSTALLATION

Windows

For or a FREE no obligation quote call now

928 518 663 QUALITY UALITY FROM THE PROFESSIONALS Visit our NEW and improved website

www.milnrow-windows.com ww.milnrow-windows.com - info@milnrow-windows.com

Atriums All photographs are of Milnrow Windows installations

he simple answer, according to the Lanzarote Cabildo and your local council is almost certainly “white.” Local laws prohibit the use of any other colours on most large buildings. But within your home, out of view of the public, you can choose any colour you want. White, of course, will be the simplest choice. But while nothing reflects sunlight better, it can also be wearying on the eye. Softer shades of white can help, but if you´re going to go with a different colour, why not make it something completely new?

Pastel cool

Elegant pastel shades are the perfect choice for Lanzarote, allowing you to use vivid and genuinely exciting colours, but still maintaining a cool elegance. These colours also combine to give a wide range of devastatingly attractive combinations, which take advantage of pastel’s natural ambiguity between neutrality and brightness. Sumptuous pistachio greens, eggshell blues and frosted pinks add real personality, although they´re admittedly not to everyone´s taste.

olour Life Your

This is one of the best times of year to give your property a lick of paint – the winter winds and showers have departed, but the scorching summer heat is yet to arrive. But what colours to use?

Desert palette

The rise of “desert style” in the USA offers a readymade décor concept that it almost perfect for sun-baked Lanzarote, reflecting the natural materials and Spanish colonial influences that can be found in the Canary Islands and Texas equally.

Think of Navajo handicrafts and the warm, earthy tones of sun-baked adobe homes, terra-cotta roof tiles and desert sands and add just enough contrasting hues of green and gray to cool you off. This style is naturally warm, looks great even after a dust storm and has a real homely vibe you´ll soon grow into.

Loud and clear

Vivid saturated colours can really transform an area, but be sure to choose wisely – they can also become tiring very quickly. Nevertheless, if well chosen, an invigorating blast of tangerine, lime green or lemon yellow can stimulate you every morning like a strong cup of coffee. The best advice is to keep the actual painted area fairly limited, use neutrals well to set it off and really enjoy yourself accessorising with matching plants, ornaments and furnishings.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 107

SPECIAL

CORNER

any residents on Lanzarote came to the island precisely because of its laid-back, relaxed sunshine lifestyle; they buy homes here in order to have a permanent place where they can be themselves; and they nearly always create a special corner where they like to curl up with a good book or a cuppa and simply enjoy the moment. The island’s outdoor lifestyle means that the best place for this nook is usually outdoors, and as you only need enough space for one person to feel comfy, you don´t need a lot of space. That´s why a balcony or a sheltered sun terrace can be just as ideal for your sheltered retreat as a larger garden area. The three important things are

• Parasols and stands • Soft furnishings for homes • Specialists in Sun Lounger cushions & outside chair cushions • Specialists in custom made “al fresco” dining area cushions

For more information visit our workshop C/Reyes Católicos 24, TÍas, Lanzarote. fourseasonslanzarote@yahoo.co.uk

Open Mon-Fri 9:30am to 5:00pm Saturday by appointment only

| April 2015 | The Gazette

“

Changing living patterns mean that the more space in your home, the more value.

“

Your

Tel/Fax: (34) 928 833 302

108

All of us need a place where we can get away from the bustle and hassle of everyday life; somewhere where we can take a deep breath, sit back and simply revel in our surroundings. And on Lanzarote that special corner can be outdoors all year round.

all present – sunshine, shelter and privacy. Sunshine is perhaps the most important factor – you’ll want to soak up the sun once in a while, but you´ll also want to control it – a little Lanzarote sunshine can go a long, long way. Shade can be provided by long flowing gauzy drapes or blinds; or you can invest time in establishing a canopy of greenery – from trees, tall shrubs or overhanging wall and ceiling plants. Plants can also bring beauty and fragrance to your retreat, and should be carefully planned and maintained. Just like you, your plants will appreciate the sunlight as well as the shade, and most importantly, should be kept out of windy areas. Wind management is vitally important and should be carefully addressed. Too little air movement and you´ve created a sweltering oven,

too much and you´ll start feeling the chill. Use blinds, shades and wooden screens to control the way air circulates in your nook.

Personal style

How you decorate your recess is entirely up to you, but don´t forget that this is your place, and comfort is a high priority. As a result you may not be quite so interested in those impressive minimal decorating styles that impress visitors but feel a little cold. You´ll want to think hard about furniture – choose a chair that you really enjoy spending time in, but one that doesn´t necessarily induce you to nod off in the sunlight. Think of classic high-backed American porch rockers to get an idea of the sort of chair that allows you to relax without collapsing. Colours should be soft and welcoming – this is a place where you really want to eliminate that glaring, eye-aching white that predominates in Lanzarote exteriors. Instead think about warm, soothing ochre yellows and terracotta reds, or cool, calming greens and blues. Go matt rather than glossy, and keep saturated colours to occasional “pops” – preferably provided by blooming flowers. Go overboard on cushions and throws, bearing in mind that texture is just as important as colour or pattern, and let your creative instincts go to work to create a place that is exactly how you, and you alone, want it.

An Island of Peace One simple way to get ideas for your home on Lanzarote is to get out and about. Visit Manrique’s homes in Tahiche and Haria; wander around the tourist centres soaking up design ideas, but also make sure you stop off at local bars and restaurants, where the owners have spent years getting the comfort of their clients right. Wherever you go on Lanzarote, you’re likely to find inspiration- this is an island where peaceful relaxation is an essential part of daily life.

palm tree pruning gardens and swimming pool maintenance Maintenance for Hotels, communities and private homes. Certificate by Canary Government. Palm tree pruning, gardens, swimming pools, painting. All for your garden !! Call us today for a personalised quote

Roberto tel: 678 239912 All equipment meets EU safety standards

email : robysigno@hotmail.com The Gazette | April 2015 | 109

ot PLUCK Container gardening comes into its own on Lanzarote, where the natural beauty of plants and shrubs combines with an almost limitless supply of beautiful, man-made containers.

• NEW - Natural or artificial grass • Maintenance for communities, hotels, private homes, etc. • Design, creation and maintenance of all types of garden (small and large)

• Swimming pools maintenance

ou may have noticed that life can be tough for plants on Lanzarote. The arid climate means that only the hardiest and well-adapted species thrive in the wild, and even in a garden, permanently-located plants need constant maintenance. Container gardening offers a practical and beautiful solution to many of the challenges gardeners face on the island. Firstly, it allows you to move your plants. This means you can experiment with positioning until you find the perfect place, and also allows you to

• Tree and palm pruning • Installation of automatic watering system • Low maintenance gardens • Cleaning of fincas and garden maintenance • Construction and design of barbeques, Thai beds, benches, paths, entrances, fountains, terraces, etc.

www.mandragoragarden.com • mandragoragarden@yahoo.es • Tel.: 659 81 27 53 110

| April 2015 | The Gazette

shelter your plants in the event of a scorching summer heat wave or a sudden storm. Containers also eliminate the competition plants will suffer from their neighbours- allowing each specimen enough soil, moisture and nutrition to grow to full potential. The mobility of containers also permits the design-conscious gardener to really make the most of outdoor living on Lanzarote, where most homes have a zone such as a balcony or patio where indoor living can be conducted in the warmth and freshness of the outdoors. There is no shortage of genuinely magical container gardens on the island where inventive gardeners have made the very most of the possibilities on offer.

In your garden it will also look great – terracotta reminds us of sunshine, but it is also extremely practical – porous enough to retain moisture yet with enough insulation to protect your plants’ roots from excessive heat. But terracotta is just one of literally thousands of ceramic styles that can be chosen for your garden. A short stroll around your local garden centre will show you just a few of the options – bright colours, muted natural shades, stoneware, a variety of glazes ranging from high gloss to matt effects – only you know which one will suit your outdoor space best. And ceramics are only the start. Containers can be made of almost anything hollow enough to hold a plant. Wooden boxes, stark geometric metal shapes, gaudy plastics – all have their fans.

n What

n The

Pot?

The classic pot is, of course, the bucket-shaped terracotta container that comes in all sizes and a surprising number of shapes. Terracotta is as popular on the Canaries as it is elsewhere, and in the form of roof tiles forms part of Tenerife´s architectural heritage.

Plants

Flowers can be devastatingly effective in containers, but here on Lanzarote it also pays never to forget that green is always the colour that symbolises freshness, growth and beauty. Think hard about the foliage you´ll be living alongside and ensure it´s spectacular. An olive or bay tree, a fragrant citrus, the exotic

THE LAWN SPECIALIST

GreenAsGrass

n The

Right Place

It pays to carefully plan how you will arrange your containers. Simply plopping them down in the nearest available space isn´t going to cut it. Containers offer you a terrific chance to add real drama to your garden. Try layering different types of foliage above, with ranks of matching containers below for a lusciously beautiful effect, or play with sizes, arranging smaller containers to complement a larger focal piece containing a well-trimmed tree or shrub. Experiment with symmetry, as well as asymmetry – what works will depend on your garden and your taste, but never forget that containers can also be mounted on wallsor suspended from above, allowing you endless options for increasing the 3D depth of your garden.

elephant´s foot plant or a rubber plant – all make a bold and beautiful statement, while smaller cacti can add quirky interest to your garden. And if you’re as interested in the kitchen as you are in the garden, herbs such as thyme, basil, sage and chives are indispensable, while you can also grow tomatoes, chillies and a variety of other tasty and flavoursome products.

C Ar Art esp i e tif ici ficia d l al G ra ss

No.1 artificial grass company in the Canaries Payment option available, & any written like for like quote will be matched • Product & Service Second to None • Specialist Unique Installation • Can be applied to any surface • Great around pools & Spas to avoid slipping

Please find us on Facebook

Please contact Lucy on 696 270 282 or Peter on 625 946 159 Ofﬁce 928 854 759 - gagcanaries@hotmail.com The Gazette | April 2015 | 111

uncork your potential

The

azette

Living Lanzarote

In Print Online By Post In Your Pocket On Your Tablet Facebook

The

azet e te

istribution

POINTS

Available throughout the island, at the premises of all our advertisers and at carefully selected distribution points. Also for sale at all media outlets including the airport.

Puerto del Carmen • First Choice • Casino • Iberoservice • Tourist Office • Post Office • Health Center • Bookswop I • Bookswop II • Cafe C.C. Biosfera • Colegio Hispano Británico • Gee Gee´s • The Sportsman • First and Last • Smartie Pants • Cheers • Las Calas • Sol y Mar • Mucky Duck I • Las Terrazas del Carmen • The Tavern • The Galeon • Keanes • Lottery • Clásicos Café • Cock & Bull • Sports Bar • Old Town Sports Bar • Chemists • Lanzarote Investments • Rest. Saporo • The Nags Head • Colegio Daos • Bagatella • Hotel Lanza Playa • Galeon Inn • Marios Restaurant • Taylor’s Tavern • Crafty Cow Bar • Viajes Caravana • Rancho Texas • La Caixa • Hospiten • Golf Club • Lanzameat • British Surgery • Music Hall Tavern • The Codfather • The Hot Spot • The Cavern • House Lanzarote

Costa Teguise • Chemists • La Caixa • Tourist Office • Casa Luis • Jack’s • Shamrock Irish Bar • Red Lion • The Mill • Café Bruno • Hotel Coronas Playa • Black Bull • Motown • Cutty Shark • The Swan Inn • Sunset Sport Bar • Estupendo • British Cafe • Cactus Jacks • Golf Course • La Esquina • Newsagent & Bookshop • Coronas Apts • Oasis Lanz • The Crown • Clinica Jiorgani • Playa Bastian • Santiago Lleó • Hollywood Bar • Ferretería Costa Teguise • Antiu Xixona Ice Cream • Colegio Arenas

Tías • Maceys • Chemists • La Caixa • Bankia • Chacón • Colourworks • La Ermita • Tienda Verde • Gangas Outlet • Joyeria Melvie • UK Autos • 4 Seasons • Health Centre • A Little Bit Bazar • Bocatería El Rinconcito

12,000 Copies Monthly

Playa Blanca • Gravity • Nags Head • Atlantico • Chemist • Il Nuovo Gelato • Santander • Tourist Office • La Caixa • Irish Anvil • Kirsty Hair • Optima Estates • Bowling Center • Rest. Fazz • Viajes Caravana • Snug • Lighthouse • Le Moka • Port of Call • Café 34 • Chevere • Ursula Falcón • Sandra’s Cafe • Freedom Properties • MVP • Dr. Mager • Las Brisas • Las Casitas • Casas del Sol • Roper • Property Solutions • El Parque • Sebastyan´s • Lounge Bar • Post Office • Bookswop III • Sun Park Living • A Little Bit Bazar • Terraza Cafe

Puerto Calero • Le Parisienne • Parafarmacia • Puerto Calero Cafe • Casablanca • Cotton and Beach • Sol y Arte • Amura • Hotel Costa Calero • Pto Calero Offices • Sub. Safaris

10,000 Free

Playa Honda • Imprenta Minerva • El Paso • Roper • Chemist • Lolita • Erik.it • Rest. Salmarina • Terraza Concorde • Aquadreams

Deiland • Lolita • Oh! Regalos • Caffé Di Roma • Lottery • Chemist

Outlying areas Arrecife • Tourist Office • C.C. Marina Lanzarote Famara • Tertulia Haria • Chemist • Rest. El Mirador de Haría La Geria • Handicraft Centre • Bodegas El Grifo La Santa • Club La Santa Mácher • The Gazette Offices • Asadero Mácher Mala • Chemist San Bartolomé • San Simón • Chemist • Health Centre • Go Karting Tahiche • British School • El Pastelito Teguise • Chemist • Bankia • Stylo • Emporium • Tourist Office • Pizzeria La Villa • La Cantina • Bakery Tinajo • Bakery • Chemist Uga • Ahumadería de Uga Yaiza • Rest. El Campo

Over 2,000 in Media Outlets

FOOTBALL

The play-offs beckon U.D. Lanzarote have shown great form all season. However, with four consecutive draws and one defeat they have recently slipped into third place and are five points adrift of the league leaders from Tenerife, C.D. Marino, writes Ian Lane.

On me cabeza, mate! The Rojillos in action

ll top four sides will go into playoffs and the Rojillos (The Reds) have a 10 point safetybarrier in the play-off zone with just nine matches remaining.

Lanzarote shocked this league when they went into the New Year as league leaders, but a loss of form has seen them backsliding a little. Nevertheless, they are still in with a strong chance of winning the Tercera Division (Fourth Tier) which would give them qualification into next season’s Copa Del Rey. Lanzarote had gone seven games unbeaten, though five of those games were draws and this has allowed the two other sides competing for the title to pull away. On the 21st February Lanzarote were 2-0 up in the 91st minute against relegation-threatened Atlético Victoria, but in the space of a minute the Tenerife side struck twice and travelled home with a point. The two huge matches that followed were against league leaders CD Marino and joint-second-placed side CD Mensajero. Lanzarote drew 1-1 at home to the league leaders on a blistering hot day but they were

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX torn apart away in La Palma by CD Mensajero and succumbed to their

FORTHCOMING HOME GAMES

2nd April Thursday Lanzarote v Real Sporting

26th April Lanzarote v CF Arucas Entrance prices : Adults 5 Euros, Pensioners 3 Euros and all children 15 and under are admitted free of charge.

114

| April 2015 | The Gazette

heaviest defeat of the season, conceding three goals without reply. At the beginning of the season any Lanzarote fan would have been overjoyed with the position that they are in now. Adolfo Pérez’s young squad have nine games to secure the playoff spot but don’t ever tell the Lanzarote manager that it is a foregone conclusion as the 42 year-old, a veteran with over 350 games in the Tercera Division, has seen teams collapse in the later stages. The Rojillos home form is still superb. They are the only club in the league to remain unbeaten, winning 10 and drawing the other five home matches. The manager and the players thank and urge all the expat and tourist fans to come and see the rest of the season out as this support is undoubtedly one of the causes of this excellent home form. For more info contact Ian Lane on 928 843332 or 649963943, info@mercancialanzarote.com or on www.lanzarotefootball.com as well as Facebook : Lanzarote football club. Official Club shirts and merchandise are on sale with Ian at the Club’s stall every Sunday at the Teguise market (near the public toilets) and now also at Puerto del Carmen old town market.

RUGBY

Volcanitos

Girl power!

Boom! Lanzarote´s young rugby squad, the Volcanitos, is now stronger than it has ever been, with a regular bunch of up to 30 youngsters heading down to the pitch at Playa Honda for twice-weekly training sessions. hat this means is that the smaller, younger players can now train separately. Coach Nigel Nevitt recently supervised a terrific session where a bunch of hugely enthusiastic little ‘uns had plenty of fun. Meanwhile, the older boys and girls can concentrate on their game – and what a game it´s turning out to be! Suddenly everything seems to be coming together, with efficient passing down the line, clean, organised rucking Coaches Colin (l) and Nigel (r) with the Volcanitos squad and mauling and a huge range of natural talent on display. Coach Colin Hughes is immensely excited, recently congratulating the team on playing “proper, adult rugby,” and a training session with ex-Lanzarote player Luis Angel Ruíz, now Lanzarote Rugby Club´s league campaign may have finished, but playing in England, has helped tighten things up even further. there´s still plenty of rugby going on in the coming weeks as the The Volcanitos will be holding a prize-giving party on May 9th at first team hosts three visiting teams. the Concord Bar in Playa Honda (check Facebook for times), just On Sunday 26th April, Bristol Telephones will take on Lanzarote one of the events organised by Kerry Peck, mum of two at playa Honda, 2 pm. Then in May, teams from Scarborough (Sat Volcanitos and unofficial club secretary. Kerry would like to 9th May) and Chiswick (Sat 16th May) will also be flying over for appeal to any businesses who´d like to sponsor a Volcanitos strip some sunshine, some rugby and without doubt a few drinks at and, of course, welcomes any other fundraising assistance. the Concord Bar afterwards. Spectators, supporters and wellWe´ll be reporting on the Volcanitos’ long-awaited trip to Tenerife wishers are all welcome. on 21st March next month, but until then anyone interested in Further visits have also been pencilled in, and watch this space kid´s rugby on Lanzarote should pop down to the football pitch at Playa Honda (behind the secondary school). for details of the hugely popular Beach Rugby Festival in June.

First team host visitors

The Gazette | April 2015 | 115

otorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotors

Drive

B side on the

right

Lanzarote offers unforgettable experiences, increasing safety and excellent infrastructure for all road users, whether local or just visiting. hen the Gazette hears from road users on Lanzarote, they´re almost always complaining. Roundabout use, cyclists vs. motorists, tailgating and, currently, frustrating detours and delays caused by roadworks are among the subjects that arise time and time again. But talking to holidaymakers, you´ll often find that they are pleasantly surprised by driving on the island, for various reasons. First, the smallness of the island means that driving is never gruelling. The longest possible straight route, from Orzola in the north to Playa Blanca in the south, measures just under 70 kilometres (43 miles) and takes around an hour. Then there is the nature of the traffic. Lanzarote is too small to warrant many HGVs, with most haulage being undertaken by vans or small lorries.

The heaviest vehicles you´ll encounter are tourist coaches, which generally stick to well-travelled routes. You´ll find boy racers and impatient, rude drivers on Lanzarote, the same as you will anywhere, but it has to be said that the island´s reliance on tourism seems to have resulted in a generally tolerant attitude. Drivers are aware that the hire car in front may be in no hurry, or could be getting used to driving on the right, and they compensate accordingly. The roads themselves are also a source of pleasure. While hot weather sets tarmac melting in other countries, the roads on Lanzarote are generally resilient, smooth, well-maintained and a pleasure to drive on. Locals and veteran residents who remember when the system consisted of mainly dirt tracks are able to tell you exactly how

much things have improved. They´ll also tell you that driving is now much safer than it ever was. Lanzarote is still not as safe as the UK or Sweden, but it´s rapidly getting there. Then there is the sheer pleasure of certain routes. Cruising down to Playa Blanca and watching the Salinas de Janubio stretch out on your right; heading through the amazing landscapes of La Geria or the malpais of the north on a perfect ribbon of tarmac, or watching the majestic cliffs at Famara approaching you are just a few of the pleasures of driving on the island. This stark beauty has tempted many car manufacturers to shoot advertisements on Lanzarote, presenting their products in landscapes that make you just want to get behind the wheel and go.

New opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30am till 4:30pm

CAR HIRE • REPAIRS & SERVICING • SALES • VEHICLE IMPORTS

COMPLETE

INSURANCE + TRAVEL WORLDWIDE VALETING COURTESY CAR subject to availability

ITV SERVICE

Check Exhaust System + Emissions, Brake Balance, Tyres, Steering & Suspension Check Levels, Check Seat Belts Plus Electrics From 90 Euros Calle El Matorral, No.8 (off Calle Luchada) Tías 116

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Tel. / Fax: 928 833 581 (From UK: 0843 2905 242)

info@uk-autos.com • www.uk-autos.com

motors

Maxi Appeal!

Rooney’s also a Mini fan. Small is beautiful across the pond, too, with stars such as Britney Spears, Madonna and Rachel McAdam all spotted behind the

The Mini has been a British design classic for over 50 years, so it’s not surprising that celebrity owners also tend to be those who reflect quirky British style. ily Allen, Rupert Grint, Fearne Cotton and Geri Halliwell are all exactly the type of stars you´d expect to find behind the wheel of a Mini, although it´s a little more surprising to discover that Wayne

{

}

“The compact classic that defines the sixties.”

wheel of a Mini. And a certain class of stylish American male has often picked up on the compact appeal of the Mini – James Garner owned one in the

60s, and Elijah Wood continues that strain. Now owned by BMW, the Mini continues to evolve while maintaining its iconic style, and a new hardtop model is planned for 2015. Details like the oval headlamps, the down-swept grille and the vertical tail lamps provide visual links to the original 1959 model produced by British Motor Corporation, and all Cooper models sport a power dome hood bulge. Though one of the smaller vehicles currently on the market, the hardtop is far larger than its truly miniature predecessors. Space is ample up front, while the rear seats are sufficient for small adults and children. It offers 8.7 cubic feet of cargo space with four occupants on board.

INCLUDING FREE TRANSPORT SPECTATORS

Arrecife Road SAN BARTOLOMÉ (Km5) Under the 5 Windmills 118

| April 2015 | The Gazette

BOOK NOW! Tel. 0034 928 52 00 22 • Mob. 0034 608 865 701

torsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmotorsmo James Garner

M TORING NEWS Petrol companies fixed prices Spain’s National Commission for Markets and Competition has issued €32 million of fines to petrol companies for price fixing. The two companies bearing the brunt of the fines are Repsol (€20 million) and Cepsa (€10 million). This latest announcement by Spain’s equivalent of the Monopolies Commission follows an investigation into the so-called “Monday effect”, when prices were dropped across the board on Mondays. The Commission

has charged that the decreases were ordered in order to coincide with European pricing inspections.

Cyclists “need insurance and registration numbers”

Madonna and her Mini

Visible cameras

Highlights from the long list of options include premium paint colors, chrome trim on the bumper and door mirrors, stripes on the hood, clear turn signals, a dizzying array of upsized alloy wheels, a center armrest, heated seats, full leather upholstery, a sport steering wheel, auto dimming mirrors, a more dynamic sport suspension, LED headlights, rear fog lights, a heads-up display, an alarm, a rear-view camera, a roof-mounted spoiler (Cooper S models only) and a panoramic sunroof.

Specifications: 1.5 litre 3 cylinder engine 134 horsepower - 162 lb/ft torque 0-60 mph – 7.4 seconds - Top speed 130 mph

Spain has decided to make speed cameras more visible, in order to show that they are a measure aimed at slowing traffic rather than raising funds. Every month, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) will carry out special crackdown campaigns in 1,200 places on Spain's roads, and will publish on its website - www.dgt.es where these will be in advance. Cameras will always be visible to drivers, even mobile ones on roadside tripods, a short time in advance but long enough for drivers to be able to slow down.

Quick, easy and immediate

At Multicar,

Car Finance Offers of the Month:

Cyclists should not only wear helmets at all times, but should also have registration numbers and compulsory third party insurance, like car drivers, according to the Spanish Cathedra of Road Safety. Anyone involved in an accident with a bike, or police who see someone riding dangerously, should be able to take down a registration number to enable them to be identified. Reflective jackets and helmets should be made compulsory and a ‘number plate’ should be displayed. Cyclists should also carry a compulsory third party liability insurance, according to the think tank.

RENAULT CLIO 1.2 3 DOOR CITROEN SAXO 1.1 3 DOOR

111€ Month

PEUGEOT 206 1.4 5 DOOR

PVP 3,300€

117€ Month

84€ Month

PVP 3,500€

PVP 2.500€

SEAT CORDOBA 1.4 4 DOOR

131€ Month PVP 3,900€

NISSAN ALMERA 1.8 AUTOMATICO 5 DOOR

SUZUKI JIMNY JEEP 4X4 1.3 3 DOOR

PVP 4,500€

PVP 4,900€

151€ Month

BMW SERIE 1 1.6 5 DOOR

359€ Month

164€ Month

PVP 10,700€

Note: The Prices are references to the 36 monthly payments, WITHOUT DEPOSIT.

With TRANSFER & WARRANTY Dual Carriageway LZ-2 - Arrecife - Aeropuerto, 2.6km 35550 San Bartolomé - Lanzarote - Canary Islands

Tel: 928 82 16 16 Fax: 928 82 00 32 The Gazette | April 2015 | 119

The

azette MASSAGE

Marketplace

QUALITY TOWLELS

WELDING SERVICES

B.E. Welding Services Over 30 years experience

(Formerly S.M.W Welding Services)

thetoweloutlet Top Quality at unbeatable prices Natural Egyptian 100% cotton

IS YOUR HOME SECURE?

550 thread count - Machine washable

Property management discount available on bulk orders

• Customized window grills • Security door grills • Iron gates & railings • All made to your design

*Colours available

Hand towels €4.00 Bath towels €8.00 Bath sheets €12.50

minimum order values apply

Call Hazel on 616 891 320

Tel.: 639 916 557 Phone Billy for a free quote. Prompt reliable service

Best quality & Price on the Island

TV SERVICES

GARDEN SERVICES

INTERNET TV

ALSO SPORTS TV package available

Including English BBC radio & all Irish Radio

AND FREE 180 MOVIES ON DEMAND.

Easy Plug ‘n’ Go systems (internet router connection) LOW cost package. Smart TV: Monthly payments Catchup

also installed

euro satellites

Fatima Cabrera de Leon -Gardening • Garden maintenance & assessment • Palm tree pruning • Licenced fumigator • Pool cleaning

Over 16 years experience on the island CALL ROY ON Tel: 928 520 806 or 650 475 259 Email:satman37@gmail.com

Tel: 620 933 245 (English) or 670 612 633 (Spanish) fatimacabreradeleon@gmail.com

PLUMBING & POOL SERVICES

SKY HD and satellite

HAIR STYLIST

PAINTING SERVICES

PHONE SERVICES

Qualified Painter & Decorator Playa Blanca, Yaiza & Puerto Calero

UK professional trained engineers

SPECIALIST IN ALL ASPECTS COVERED

Auto solar valves • Solar panels - Heatpumps • Pool fibreglassing & painting Ceramic pool tiling • Pool leak detection • Pool construction & installation Plant room fitting & maintenance • Domestic hot water solar installation Domestic water leak detection equipment • General plumbing services

Lee Womersley 655 781 735

Tel/Fax 928 822 694 Sean 669 399 403

leewomersley@yahoo.co.uk LW Painter & Decorator

Aljibe and Swimming pool laminate linings

s.w.poolsandsolar@hotmail.com www.swpoolsandsolar.com

CARE SERVICES

Fully qualified NVQ level 1,2,3 painter and decorator

SECURITY SERVICES

JOINERY SERVICES

Protect your home with an Alarm System. This is a registered company G35794155

STARLIGHT CARE & BABY SITTING SERVICES • Do you need a carer? • Do you need a home help? • Do you need a babysitter? We have a team of qualified carers. Reasonable rates. For a free assessment with no obligation

LanzSecure

Lanz S

ecure

For complete peace of mind

• • • • • •

Each System tailor made for your property/needs. Discrete Wireless Installations. Smoke and Fire Detection. Remote Monitoring Options. 24 Pet Friendly Sensors also available! Months Installed in 3 hours.

Warranty

Call or write today for a free quotation Please contact us on

636 582 076

Email: starlightservicesscp@yahoo.com

lanzsecure@gmail.com Phone us : 677 428 919

Island Joinery Services Manufacturers and installers of bespoke fitted kitchens and bedrooms. Free 3D design service. Based in Playa Blanca

For all aspects of Joinery manufacture call +34 667 412 165 No monthly fees to pay once installed

Email: gary@islandjoineryservices.com Web: www.islandjoineryservices.com

The

azette HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Marketplace

SECURITY SERVICES

STYLISH AWNINGS SUN & SHADE BLINDS SHOWER ENCLOSURES We are specialists in awnings, windbreaks and interior window blinds Made to size Simple and Lasting designs

626 492 701 - 928 524 013 www.lanzaroteblinds.com info@solysom.net

Sun & Shade Blinds ENTERTAINMENT

RENTAL SERVICE

SECURITY SERVICE

IS YOUR HOUSE SAFE?

The original. The best.

For Ornate Doors, Iron Garden Gates, Window Grills

We’ve got it all!!! Wheelchairs, Crutches, DVDs, Playstation, MP3-CD Players, Cots, Highchairs, Car Seats, Buggies, Heaters, Fans, Baby Bath, Sterilizers, Z-Beds. Also available to rent or buy bathroom, toilet and home care aids.

Call 696 125 597

New stock, fast reliable service

689 694 299 - 606 916 200

ARNOLD S.L.

Rent It Quick - Lanzarote BUILDING SERVICES

ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS

PROPERTY CARE

ALUMINIUM DESIGN

SMT SOLUTIONS

CARPENTRY AND JOINERY

THE COMPLETE BUILDING & MAINTENANCE SERVICE Professional Specialised Trades with 25 yrs experience. The Islands Premiere finishers “See what we´ve done for others ask what we can do for you”

Call Paul Daly :

678 802 666 Email: info@dalybuildingservices.com

Visit Website: www.dalybuildingservices.com

BUILDING SERVICES

29 YEARS EXPERIENCE in Property Restoration, Renovations and Refurbishments.

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Fincas and Apartments • Tiling • Plastering • Decorating • Piedra Stone Installations • Patios • Landscaping • Pool Fibreing • Tiling and Pebble Tec Finishing. Maintenance and Management. Contact julian 637 832 982 Or visit www.lanzarote-builders.com

& BUILDING SERVICES Design to your specification at affordable prices, doors, windows, pergolas, etc. Free planning and advice service. 25 years experience of renovating property in Lanzarote. aluminiumdesignlanzarote.com

Kitchen design and installation

Quality, service & care The one solution for all your property needs Electrical, plumbing, building and all general maintenance needs. 24HR emergency service

Over 30 years experience Please visit our website

Email: aluminiumdesignlanzarote@yahoo.es

Tel: 679 955 950

Call Steven 673 024 772

NEW AND REPLACEMENT LOCKS

The Lock People

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Bedrooms • Pergolas • Gates • Shutters • Internal & external doors • Windows • Bespoke furniture

YOUR 1 STOP LOCK SHOP

Want 1 key for all your locks? Lock systems with non copiable keys

Need a safe for your valuables? Call us - we can supply and fit Digital locks, window locks, door locks, patio door locks, padlocks -

LANZ LOCKS for anything lock related Locked out? - Call us!

Normal Hours Monday - Friday 9am to 5pm

For a professional locksmith service contact Brian on 620 896 185 or 928 845 886 www.lanzlocks.com info@lanzlocks.com

VET SERVICES

VETERINARIAN HOUSE CALL • 24 hour Emergency Vet Service • Routine Pet Examinations • Vaccinations facebook: veterinario Eduardo Cartolano 628 743 565 616 047 473 (Engli (En Engli glish) sh) h)

The

azette MOBILITY AIDS

Mobility Aids Lanzarote S.L.

Marketplace

DRAIN SERVICES

Lanzarote Drain Services • Drains Unblocked • High Pressure Water Jetting • Camera Surveys & Reports • Sonar Drain Tracing • Excavations & Repairs • New Installations

SCOOTERS, WHEELCHAIRS powered or self propelled, HYDROLIC HOISTS, BATH & TOILET AIDS. For further information or to hire any of these appliances.

DELIVERY & COLLECTION INCLUDED PLEASE CONTACT ROY on ENG - 606 75 43 42 / ESP - 650 257 097 www.mobilityaids-lanzarote.com E-mail:enquiries@mobilityaids-lanzarote.com

WATER FILTERS

call NOBBY 628 104 752 POOL SERVICES

GRILLS AND GATES

WATER FILTER

PEBBLE TEC POOL FINISHES

All the fresh water you need for drinking and cooking for only 3 cents a litre. Domestic and commercial

• • • •

Range of colours Stain resistant Non slip texture Over 160 completed pools in Lanzarote & Fuerteventura • Skilled installers with 10 yrs experience

Telephone Chris:

www.aguaclara.eu Telephone: 661 041 155 BUILDING SERVICES

Plumbing

667 906 214 www.aquadreamspools.com

TV SERVICES

PROPERTY SERVICES

Bathrooms

Carpentry Project

Extension

Kitchens

Pools

Electrical

Refurbs

Building

Professional Building Services Tel: 630 738 202 e-mail: matt@q1bs.com www.q1bs.com

FREE!!! UK AND WORLDWIDE TV (EVERYTHING) NO SUBSCRIPTIONS EVER AGAIN. XBMC boxes fully loaded with remotes from €125 Tablets Laptops or your own equipment loaded for €50 Internet connection 2mb + needed. Deal Includes brief tutorial and idiots guide.

Call Mark 679 321 823 pop in shop ﬁrst (CT) for a demo.

WINDOWS - DOORS - CONSERVATORIES

COMPLETE MANAGEMENT & MAINTENANCE SERVICES For villa & apartment owners. We are an established family run company that knows the importance of customer satisfaction. For more info on our services visit our website:

www.totaldevelopments.com Email: info@totaldevelopments.com

PROPERTY SERVICES

¡ESTUPENDO! Property Sales, Rentals, Commercials & Relocation Call us now: Playa Blanca: 928 519 153 Puerto Del Carmen: 928 349 465 Costa Teguise: 928 346 105

Tel:928 515 020 Mob: 628 354 887

www.grupoestupendo.com email: info@grupoestupendo.com

TV SERVICES

DRY CLEANING & LAUNDERETTE

For all TV viewing if its worth watching contact

Installers of uPVC Aluminium & Wood windows, doors, conservatories, atrium roofs, patio & French doors. Complete with toughened DG units. All colours available.

TEL/FAX: 928 518 663

satellite services Contact Details:

Mobile: 629 161 263 www.digitaldave.eu.com Email: info@digitaldave.eu.com

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY SPECIALISTS

Over 16 years on the island For free advice call Dave

FREE PICK UP & DELIVERY TO ALL RESORTS 0 Curtains 0 Carpets 0 Sofa Covers 0 Blankets 0 1 day Turnaround 0 Duvets - Vac Packed & fresh for next season 0 Take all your holiday clothes home clean. 3€ per kilo - Washed - Dried - Folded 0 Contract work for villas and apartments For location, please look at The Gazette Puerto del Carmen map Nº 10

Calle Los Sabandeños, 47 - Puerto Del Carmen Tel: 928 512 440 • smartpm@hotmail.co.uk

Cl assi fi eds For Sale SCOOTER SYM/JET 125 2010 6,000 miles from new ITV til May 2016 Immaculate condition 2 helmets + lock incl 995€ Telephone:

693 795 983 L- 04.15

Music & Entertainment FOR ALL YOUR POOL & SPA NEEDS

PIANIST FOR ALL SEASONS

* Helicol Solar Panels * Heat Pumps * Salt Chlorinators * Elite Solar Pool Cover * Pool Safety & Enclosures. Visit our showroom in Playa Honda (next to the Deiland & Car Shop)

Concerts, functions, teaching Perrys Piano Phone:

649 584 805 L-06.15

Shop:

928 822 057 THE DULUX SHOP Weathershield, Trade and Retail paints mixed in store from a choice of 1200 colours. Matt, silk, gloss and undercoats. Also Thomson waterseal and Ronseal products. Mon-Fri 9am-1.30pm

928 833 338

piscinasdirect@hotmail.com Pool covers and Aljibe/pool liners also made to measure PIC-V.A.

QUALITY EGYPTIAN 100% COTTON Towels at unbeatable prices Hand Towel Bath Towel Bath Sheets

4.00€ 8.00€ 12.50€

Great Towels, Great Prices The Towel Outlet Call Hazel on:

Mobile:

661 960 307 PIC-RN

607 528 977 Cars

Digital camera 20.2 MP, SLR Kit, CMOS, 18-55 mm, Canon EF, TTL Price: 750€

600 441 188 movil@alegria.com PIC-V.A. (12.14)

PALM TREES 5 years. 1.20m. 12€. Arnold:

696 125 597 L- J.F. (04.15)

B-R.N.

HOTSPRING SPAS & HOT TUBS We have the largest range of spas & hot tubs to suit every budget. www.aquadreamspoolsandspas.com

Shop: 928 822 057 Mob: 661 960 307 PIC-RN

NEW AND USEDWINDOWS and doors and more for sale at Tahiche Garden Centre. Open between 10am - 4 pm Mon-Sat B-RN

2004 BRITISH PLATES LANDROVER FREELANDER HSE 59,000 miles. 1 owner from new. Taxed, MOT, 4 new tyres, service history, tow bar, 5 door. 2,500€ Telephone:

649 785 884 L-04.15

616 891 320

YOUR LOCAL DEALER OF:

BOAT MAKO 253 Imported from USA (26 feet) Year 2007 B-R.N. (03.15)

CANON EOS 70D + 1855 STM

HEAVY DUTY, QUALITY COIN METERS Ideal for the control of Air Conditioners, Heaters, Washing Machines and other High Power Consumption Appliances * Robust and reliable (5 year written warranty). *Programmable for any cost/unit of electricity consumed *Usually installed in less than two hours Telephone:

+34 677 428 919

IF YOUR CAR NEEDS a new door. Prices from 20€ Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.15am to 7.30pm Sat 8.15am to 3.00pm Poligono Industrial Playa Honda Carretera Arrecife - Yaiza Email: santanadelpino@hotmail.es

680 338 547 928 820 687 659 253 013 L-V.A.

CARS FOR SALE *Mercedes Benz SL 500 year 1995 *Mercedes Benz ML 320 year 2002 *Porsche Cayenne year 2008 *Yamaha Midnight Special 1200cc year 2010 New Telephone:

Art, Decor, Antiques, Home, Wear, Gifts, Yurts. Come and visit us on C/Notas 15 - Villa de Teguise

www.emporium.es

info@mvplanzarote.com PIC-RN

928 845 069 PIC-V.A.

928 518 980

LANZAROTE FREEMASONS Are you a freemason or ever thought of being one? Please contact simonclaxton92@gmail.com

649 817 197 B-R.N.

Tuition & Translation Englishman resident in the Canaries for 40 years and teaching Spanish for 10 years gives private Spanish lessons in the comfort of your own home, at times to suit yourself. 20€ per hour. Extra pupils in the same class only 5€. All levels. No books required. First introductory lesson free of charge. Advance-payment discount rates available. Phone Cliff on:

629 108 681

Health & Beauty MOBILE NAILS Extensions - Gel or acrylic 35€. Also Manicures 15€ & Pedicures 20€. Done in comfort of your own home. Ring Dorothy

660 188 128

All prices plus 5€ travel for Costa Teguise/Playa Blanca L-04.15

STOP SMOKING

L-04.15

One session needed. Jim Loughrill MIAPH Dhp Clinical Hypnotherapist Smoking Cessation Specialist Free initial consultation Telephone:

BRITISH QUALIFIED INTERPRETER  TRANSLATOR Spanish - English For all your local needs Call Jane

+34 676 453 135

690 719 099

(Tias) stopeasily.com

L-04.15

PIC-06.15

SPANISH PAPERWORK MAKING YOUR LIFE EASIER By handling all your Spanish Dilemas! *Residencia *NIE’s *Electric/Water *Social Security *Registrations at Town Halls And much more British/Spanish speaking with 15 years experience

+34 628 015 322

info@spanishpaperwork.com www.spanishpaperwork.com L-R.N. (03.15)

www.tantra-lanzarote.es Sensory Tantric Massage incl (body2body, Lingam + Prostate massage) is: relaxing, charming, tender. (NO extra services!) **NEW**Dark Tantra by appointment only

646 583 371 Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm PIC-12.15

NEED HELP WITH TRANSLATIONS Residencias, doctor, hospital, police or school visits. Call Heidi on

628 000 884

HATHA YOGA CLASSES Also pregnancy class. In Macher Telephone:

928 512 773

for information

L-R.N.

Physiotherapy Centre

Personal

L-R.N. (03.15)

HEALER & CLAIRVOYANT READER

josephinecoulcher@yahoo.co.uk

Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, Exercise programmes, Stretching, Acupuncture. Massages: Deep tissue + triggerpoints, Relaxing, Aromatherapy, Lymphatic Drainage. Half hour 20€ Full hour 40€ Gift vouchers available For appointment call

928 821 616

649 157 725 B-04.15

amayafisioterapia@hotmail.com

PIC-V.A.

PIC-V.A. (04.15)

POOL COVERS

L-12.14

607 528 977

or email: coinmeters@inbox.com

MVP´s great pool covers come with up to 8 years guarantee! Contact us for details:

689 693 728

CAN’T SPEAK SPANISH?

Boats

www.aquadreamspoolsandspas.com

CARS WANTED Any condition. MOT failers. Cash paid. Tel Alan:

We provide full garage service for any make of vehicles. Mechanical and electrical repairs, bodywork and paint service. Carretera Arrecife - Yaiza Km 2.600 - Playa Honda Telephone:

Josie Coulcher is an accomplished healer working with crystals, Reiki, and colour, based on the Art of Shammanic teachings. Reflexologist and clairvoyant reader. Contact Josie Coulcher on

928 515 836 PIC-N.K.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 123

Cl assi fi eds AFFECTED BY CANCER?

ELECTRICIAN

Come to our informal support group to chat and make new friends. 11am 2nd Tuesday of each month at Marilyn’s Bar - Playa Honda Contact

English-born Spanish qualified No job too small. Fault finding, extra sockets to full rewire. Bulletins. Free quotations Sean

928 513 152

Dawn (Perpetuarte) L-03.15

615 179 233 L-04.15

CORGI GAS / PLUMBER

YOGA CLASSES Puerto del Carmen: Mondays and Wednesdays 7am to 8.30am Tuesdays and Thursdays 7pm to 8.30pm Playa Blanca: Mondays and Wednesdays 6pm to 7.30pm Ana Garmendia:

657 170 844 L-R.N.

“FELINE PHYSIQUE” A brand new class developed by “Katy Diablo Grant” Strength and conditioning coach and qualified medical nutritionist Are you willing to train hard to get the desired results?? Then this class is for you! Define your body, Increase your core and overall strength. Monday - Friday 9-10AM BST GYM 37 Calle Cesar Manrique San Bartolome Next to Geejay Estates Call:

928 523 010 L-V.A.

General Services INSURANCE

UK qualified. All works undertaken Heaters and pumps repaired. + property maintenance. Call Peter:

636 611 408

After 2.00 pm

928 845 348 B-08.15

679 321 823

or pop in shop (CT) for a demo L-04.15

124

in an efficient and economic way. No connection fee. No maintenance payments 24 Hrs connection & control via mobile. WiFi Sat (Residents, Villas & Complexes)

For free quotation call:

686 375 523 928 817 163

centralitascanarias@gmail.com

Locks opened, windows & doors repaired. + property maintenance. Call Peter:

636 611 408 B-04.15

WASHING MACHINE

L-05.15

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Cookers, M/Waves. Water heater repairs. Qualified engineer. All work guaranteed. Call Alan on:

699 708 238 L-04.15

Call Crystal Clear on:

628 835 174 L-04.15

PEST CONTROL Offers professional services from residential and commercial pest control. All work is guaranteed Call Alex on

689 085 508

www.alexcontrol.com B-03.15

UK TV LANZAROTE BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, cbeebies and many more. Direct to your television via your router and our set top box. www.aguaclara.eu

661 041 155 L-04.15

ODD JOBS DIY handyman Telephone:

669 986 259 PIC-06.15

IN AND OUT DECORATING SERVICES Professional, reliable affordable for a competitive free quote. Call Sean:

696 569 818

inandoutdecoratingservices @yahoo.com

Expatriate insurance underwritten by Lloyds in London IBEX the largest expatriate insurance provider. 24hrs/365 days emergency clains assistance. Tel/Fax:

928 833 581 See main advert.

928 517 709 678 451 168 PIC-R.N.

Lanzarote Drain Services

Toilets, baths/showers, sinks, drains, etc. Unblocked Fast Call Nobby:

628 104 752

CAN’T GET YOUR POOL OR SPA to balance? Visit our showroom for free computerised pool & spa water analysis. www.aquadreamspoolsandspas.com

Shop:

928 822 057 Mobile: 661 960 307 PIC-R.N.

| April 2015 | The Gazette

WE CAN FIND A SOLUTION to get rid of your tax and paperwork headaches for residents & non-residents. A professional service from a simple NIF application to setting up a company with tax declarations. Telephone:

928 513 311 928 513 300

www.ebfconsulting.com PIC-R.N

PIC-02.15

WINDOW CLEANING Best prices for domestic and commercial premises. Fully experienced. Quick, clean and reliable. References available. For a free quote Phone:

680 317 766 L-03.15

655 781 735

leewomersley@yahoo.co.uk

TEGUISE BROKER

General insurances Call Emily & Gabriella

928 590 623 619 641 164

Email: teguisebroker@gmail.com www.teguisebroker.com

Services ting & Tax • Accoun Licences • Opening ts • Price Lis Licences ransport T • ROOFING SYSTEMS cias • Residen The Rooflex from MP urses NIF system yg • iene co will go H onea any & Hsurface, rt/export lthroof • s for impo er b even pergolas and comes m u n EORI • WE with a 12 at year rotection a Pguarantee! FI • D for Also great roof terraces SOL and balconies! Please contact us for details. Contact us for details:

928 518 980

info@mvplanzarote.com PIC-R.N.

TROUSERS AND CURTAINS SHORTENED & zips replaced Tel Sue

609 917 068 L-04.15

HANDY TANDY Tiling, interior & exterior, painting, joinery work, flat packs assembled. Property maintenance. Any odd jobs large or small. Call Richard

638 734 491 L-04.15

L-N.K.

BLOCKED?

Lee Womersley

PIC-06.15

L-04.15

EXPAT INSURANCE

Playa Blanca All aspects covered. Fully qualified NVQ level 1, 2, 3 painter and decorator

SMT SOLUTIONS Property maintenance, electrical plumbing building and all general property maintenance needs. Call Steven

673 024 772

professional cleaning services using injection/extraction machine - perfect for upholstery, sofas, rugs, car interiors, bar stools, etc.

QUALIFIED PAINTER & DECORATOR

L-03.15

B-04.15

XBMC LANZAROTE Free UK and Worldwide TV (Everything) NO SUBSCRIPTIONS EVER AGAIN. TV Boxes priced from 125€. Internet connection 2mb + needed. Deal includes brief tutorial and idiots guide. Call Mark:

YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS PROTECTED

PIC-V.A.

Best prices ever for your car, house, health & commercial insurance. No claims bonus respected. Veronica on

928 801 985 928 801 929 676 217 329

LOCKSMITH UK REGISTERED

THE MULTI REPAIR AND ENGRAVING CENTRE in Tias. Shoe repairs, keycutting, engraving, watch repairs, clothing repairs & alterations. Computer repairs, knife sharpening, engraveable gifts & signs, passport photos. Pick up/drop off points for shoe repairs: Playa Blanca - Popeyes Sports Bar Costa Teguise - Brown Deli PDC - Raffles Bar PDC Old Town - Kazbar www.geppettolanzarote.com

676 670 786

INTERNET TV BBC 1/2, ITV, CH4, CH5, etc RTE 1/2, TV3, TG4, plus Catchup. LOW cost package. Monthly payments. Also add on Sports package. Over 16 yearrs experience on island

Telephone:

650 475 259 928 520 806

satman37@gmail.com L-R.N. (03.15)

STEAM CLEANING of carpets, upholstery, mattresses. Over 20 years on the island, 34 years in the business. Telephone Deet:

928 806 295 606 237 296 L-04.15

& CO

THE COMPLETE GLAZING SERVICE

UPVC, Aluminium & wood frames catered for. Broken glass replaced. Frames repaired or renewed. Locks and handles replaced. 24 Hr Glazing / Boarding service.

geppettolanzarote@gmail.com

928 518 663

PIC-V.A.

PIC-R.N

Cl assi fi eds TOTAL DEVELOPMENTS

F E L I C I TA S H O FA C K E R

Professional cleaning services Telephone:

628 354 887 L-J.F.

R E C H T S A N W Ä L T I N

Door opening. Lock replacement and repair. UK security products available. Call Brian

928 845 886 620 896 185 still available from C&K Haulage Service. Order placed via email at info@ckhaulage.com Brand names you can trust! Enquiries:

928 524 190 PIC-V.A.

PLUMB CRAZY PLUMBER & POOL ENGINEER Over 30 yrs experience in * Domestic plumbing * Bathrooms conversions * Kitchen fitting * Tiling * Small building works * Painting * Pool & Spa maintenance. Reliable service. No call out too small. Call Steve Thacker

669 663 602 928 520 640 L-03.15

OJ REMOVALS Man with Van. Collections Deliveries - Removals Tip Runs. House clearances. From 25€. Telephone:

669 986 259

L-06.15

ELECTRICIAN UK QUALIFIED NICEIC + 17th Edition Installation & repairs, heaters & pumps repaired. No job too small. Call Peter:

BE AWARE When transporting personal possessions choose a company that is correctly licensed and insured to ensure your goods will arrive and not be impounded. We can offer you both the security and peace of mind from a long established legal company, plus a guarantee of the safe delivery of your possessions. Contact C & K Haulage Services. A Professional Haulage Company. Telephone:

0034 928 524 190 The cheapest option is not always the best option. L-V.A

630 059 433 P-V.A. (04.15)

PIC-J.F.

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT MVP Playa Blanca’s most recommended property managers - for the highest standard of villa pool & guest care. Call Angela on:

928 518 980

angela@mvplanzarote.com L-R.N.

928 801 351

kanzleihofacker@gmail.com

GENERAL PLUMBING SERVICES Hot water thermos, pumps repaired & replaced. All your plumbing requirements catered for. Swimming pool maintenance & cleaning. SPECIALIST IN Aljibe and swimming pool laminate lining. Domestic water and swimming pool leak detection and repairs. Tel Sean:

669 399 403 B-V.A

WE SUPPLY AND FIT SOLAR O

& CO

polycarbonate to your existing pergola. No painting or refelting ever again. No maintenance required and comes with a 10 year guarantee. Telephone for quotation:

928 518 663 PIC-RN

Tel/Fax: 928 822 694 Sean 669 399 403 Español 626 271 461

for 20 years. Repair service, ITV for all makes, used cars bought & sold, vehicle transfers & imports, car storage, prompt & efficient service. Tel/Fax: PIC-N.K

WHO MANAGES YOUR PROPERTY?

PROPERTY AND VILLA MANAGEMENT

Professional property management services by Spectra. info@spectra247.com Telephone:

Looking for a change do you need more bookings we offer a full maintenance and client care service tailored to your needs. We are currently looking for 1 or 2 3/4 bed villas to help satisfy our current booking needs. You can be featured on our web site and promoted through our other business with access to a large data base of customers and tourists. Living in the UK with property here? We offer and maintenance service tailored to your needs ensuring the property is ready for you whenever you need it. Telephone:

928 944 789

PIC-V.A.

Protect your home with an Alarm System. (Discrete Wireless Installations). lanzsecure@gmail.com Phone us:

677 428 919 No monthly charges

PIC-V.A. (04.15)

RELIABLE PROFESSIONAL PAINTER/DECORATOR

0034 606 884 132

All plumbing works Heaters & pumps repaired. + property maintenance. No job too small Call Peter:

PIC-V.A.

P-04.15

928 072 029

636 611 408

L-04.15

Building Allied Trades ALUMINIUM DESIGN & BUILDING SERVICES Design to your specification at affordable prices; doors, windows, pergolas, conservatories, etc... Free planning & advice service. 25 years experience of renovating property in Lanzarote.

Email: kdpropertyservices@yahoo.co.uk

A professional and reliable service for ALL your carpentry needs. www.nscarpentryjoinery.com

628 272 993 928 836 868

Tel:

679 955 950

aluminiumdesignlanzarote.com B-04.15

Tel: 680 882 863 nscarpentry@aol.com

L-04.15

L-05.15

NEED A RELIABLE ASESORIA To navigate you through the minefield of paperwork for Businesses here in Lanzarote then contact us

928 834 103 gesgroup@terra.es

MOSAIC TILED BENCH + all other tiling. Call Billy:

606 419 334 928 524 406 PIC-02.15

PLUMBING PROJECT? FOR ALL YOUR SWIMMING POOL NEEDS INCL CHEMICALS Piscinas Direct are the elite team in pool lining and Aljibe lining, all our lining comes with a 10 year guarrante. We can also offer you a choice of three different types of cover material for your pool, including the most sought after bubble weave 600 micro. Installers of Automatic pool covers and Enclosures, Heat pumps and solar systems

928 833 338

Bathrooms, Solar water heating, electric, water heater, swimming pool plumbing, Storage tanks, Aljibe, Air-conditioning, New Pump

630 738 202 L-J.F.

B.E WELDING Is your home secure? *Customized window grills *Security door grills *Iron gates & railings *All made to your design

639 916 557

www.bewslanzarote.com L-J.F.

piscinasdirect@hotmail.com

WE MANUFACTURE, SUPPLY & INSTALL

L-V.A

Pool covers, sun blinds & windbreaks Specialists. Over ten years experience. Superb materials and prices. Telephone:

609 917 068

NS CARPENTRY JOINERY

www.cristalvillas.com info@cristalvillas.com

PLUMBER UK REGISTERED

Professionally made to measure. Tel Sue:

City & guids qualified with 30 years experience. Also available for maintenance jobs etc. References can be supplied. Prompt and reasonable. Contact me for free quote Keith:

ENGLISH OWNED AND STAFFED

928 833 581

636 611 408 PIC-04.15

Express repair service. Total guarantee Email: phonedoctor@gmx.com Telephone:

Main area: *Spanish wills and advice on German & English wills *Inheritance tax *Death duty *Precautionary power of attorney *House purchase *Defects in construction

CURTAINS & SOFT FURNISHINGS

BEST POSSIBLE PRICES FOR SKY! Call is for all your satellite needs. Installations. HD Boxes, Freeview cards, Internet systems. We offer a quick, reliable, guaranteed service.

928 845 522 679 316 036

powder coated aluminium windows, doors, pergolas, shutters and mosquito nets. Fast - Efficient & Reliable Service. Email: theallyshop@gmx.com

Tel: 928 524 597 Fax: 928 833 378 Mob: 679 568 700 PIC-V.A.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 125

Cl assi fi eds To Let COSTA TEGUISE Seafront villa. 4 bedrooms. Heated pool.

Telephone:

699 616 266 659 624 020 L-N.P. (03.15)

NAZARET 4 bedroom house, 4 bathrooms, huge garden, swimming pool. Short or long let.

Telephone:

632 475 448 928 845 490 (Dalila)

L-02.15

MATAGORDA 1 & 2 bedroom bungalows. Parking and garden

Telephone:

699 616 266 659 624 020 L-02.15

PUERTO DEL CARMEN

PALM TREES TRIMMED

Bungalow opposite San Antonio Hotel with seaview 72 sqm, 2 bedrooms, full kitchen, car driveway, community pools, community garden. Telephone:

Tall & Small. Garden waste cleared. Telephone:

607 528 977

L-R.N. (03.15)

FULLY FURNISHED 3 beds/2 baths, separate kitchen. Detached house with 3 terraces amongst mature garden in rural, quiet area near nature coast, sandy beach and textile free bathing. Information and viewings call:

+34 690 347 771 +34 928 173 715 L-V.A.

PREMISES

DUPLEX IN PLAYA HONDA Large lounge, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, separate kitchen. Fully furnished. Reduced to 144,000€ Call:

928 823 906 678 478 387

L-05.15

MACHER Beautiful property 361 mts Plot 18,200 sqm. 4 bedrooms 3 sitting rooms, full kitchen, BBQ and 450 mts patio area, Big garden with 20 palm trees, heated pool, 2 garages. Small studio apartment attached Telephone:

607 528 977

*60sqm commercial local opposite Fariones Aparthotel *60sqm commercial office in Arrecife. Locate opposite C.C. Arrecife. With garage and underground storage room. Telephone: L-R.N. (03.15)

3 BEDROOM DUPLEX IN LA CONCHA 2 bathrooms, separate fully fitted kitchen, lounge, separate dining room. Garden, terrace and parking. Fully furnished. Quiet area Close to C.C. Deiland. 2 mins from the beach. NOW 188,000€

L-V.A. (03.15)

126

Pets

+34 722 166 903

debi@scruplesdecor.com www.scruplesdecor.com

DOGS

PIC-R.N.

“LIKE AT HOME”

AFFORDABLE & FLEXIBLE Holiday Rentals for over 50s. A holiday home away from home in the sunny Playa Blanca at extremely reasonable prices. For more information contact the Sun Park Living’s Team at

Accomodation in a private house. Only a few. Small and medium size. Telephone:

+34 620 172 318 +44(0)1614083360

Holiday Let

L-N.K.

HOLIDAY ACCOMODATION Self-contained, in delightful country house near Puerto Calero. Telephone:

‘LUCKY’ REQUIRES re-homing. Owners leaving island. Telephone:

690 340 470 PIC-03.15

928 512 773

4.00€ 8.00€ 12.50€

630 766 704 L-03.15

Friends or family coming over? Visit “Casa Tiffany” at www.cristalvillas.com or contact us on

Telephone:

+34 606 884 132

SICK COMPUTER?

CATS Secure accommodation provide to look after your cats while you are away. www.purrfectvacations.net

Telephone:

Home & Garden PROFESSIONAL PALM TREE MAINTENANCE. Certified with licence Nº 1803. For free advice and quotations call Estif & Raul, Mon - Fri on

686 846 958 655 683 272

or visit my website www.palmtreespecialist.com

FLOWER POWER Garden centre. Healthy plants, Professional advice in English, Picon, Soil Landscaping

928 510 562

616 891 320

Mon-Fri 10.00-18.30 Sat 10.00-13.30

B-R.N.

PIC-V.A.

Call the doctor! Virus removal, repairs and upgrades. Systems built to order. Web design and hosting Phone:

696 473 446 Web: compdoc.es L-03.15

For Hire REMOVALS Man with a very big van for removals of anything, any shape or size. Near or far. No job too small. Telephone:

928 823 045 628 474 534

INTERNET TV BBC 1/2, ITV, CH4, CH5, etc RTE 1/2, TV3, TG4, plus Catchup. LOW cost package. Monthly payments. Also add on Sports package. Over 16 yearrs experience on island

Telephone:

L-06.15

650 475 259 928 520 806

MAN WITH A VAN

satman37@gmail.com

Large van for removals, deliveries and collections. Any size of load Tel Brian:

Great Towels, Great Prices The Towel Outlet Call Hazel on:

| April 2015 | The Gazette

Problem solving ----Installations & upgrades Desktop & laptop repairs Virus & malware removal System restore & reload WiFi & networking (home & office) ----Security camera systems installation & repair ANDY GORDON

LOOKING FOR A HOLIDAY LET?

QUALITY EGYPTIAN 100% COTTON Hand Towel Bath Towel Bath Sheets

PIC-R.N.

L-R.N

L-04.15

Towels at unbeatable prices

www.woodsidecargosl.com info@woodsidecargosl.com

COMPUTERS

PIC-04.15

606 446 550

Deutsch - Español:

+34 615 311 304

Computing

928 520 781

L-S.A. (04.15)

Uk:

08445 988 327

PIC-03.15

L-R.N

Lovely apartment for sale. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 62 sqm terrace, private parking. 500m from the sea. For more information Telephone:

928 869 036 Mob: +34 666 504 625

Telephone:

B-V.A.

ESQUINZO JANDIA, FUERTEVENTURA

Express door to door service, all customs formalities adhered to Contact Woodside Cargo on

928 510 429

info@cristalvillas.com

UGA 3 HOUSES UNDER CONSTRUCTION

619 814 087

L-04.15

639 242 370

L-R.N. (03.15)

in a private area. 2 semi-detached houses: 120m2 each. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, kitchen, living room, utility room, parking, terrace and garden. 1 detached house: 180m2. 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, living room kitchen, utility room, garden. All paperwork in order For more info call Ramon

679 955 950

www.sunparkliving.com

607 528 977

Property for Sale

Sheeting in more than 30 colours. Towels, kids bedding & accessories, Duvets, pillows mattress & pillow protectors, mattress toppers Contact:

928 514 497 606 823 718 B-04.15

L-R.N. (03.15)

Wanted WE BUY ANYTHING

Collections and Deliveries Also large storage available. Tel Alan:

Household furniture, domestic appliances, gold & silver jewellery. Top prices for right articles. Tel Alan:

B-12.14

LARGE VAN AND DRIVER

689 693 728

NEW RANGE OF PRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE : UPVC WINDOWS AND DOORS PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

FAST EFFICIENT & RELIABLE SERVICE

We manufacture, supply & install powder coated aluminium windows, doors, pergolas, shutters and mosquito nets Up to date machinery for manufacturing and construction of aluminium products

TWO COLOUR ALUMINIUM FRAMES

Roller shutters: Manual and electric

Interior & Exterior Factory produced powder coating

Mosquito Nets: Fixed - Roll down - Sliding

Also fly screen doors C/ Matorral, 6–Tias. Tel: 928 524 597 Fax: 928 833 378 Mobile: 679 568 700 The Gazette | April 2015 | email : theallyshop@gmx.com • www.theallyshop.com

127

AIRPORT Iberia General Info..................901 111500 Aena General Info ..................928 846000 Flight Information ...................928 846001 First Choice ............................928 516930

April 2015 Monthly Tide tip: The best shore fishing can often be had at high tides.

Tide Tables for Arrecife, Lanzarote. Units are in metres. (Times may vary by a few minutes around the island)

Day

Hour

Metres

H: L: H: L:

00:22 06:39 12:45 18:50

2.3 0.6 2.3 0.6

H: L: H: L:

00:57 07:12 13:17 19:23

2.5 0.5 2.4 0.5

H: L: H: L:

01:29 07:42 13:47 19:54

2.6 0.4 2.5 0.4

H: L: H: L:

02:00 08:11 14:16 20:24

2.6 0.3 2.6 0.3

H: L: H: L:

02:30 08:41 14:46 20:54

2.7 0.3 2.6 0.3

H: L: H: L:

03:01 09:10 15:16 21:26

H: L: H: L:

Day

Hour

Metres

H: L: H: L:

00:42 06:59 13:09 19:19

2.8 0.1 2.8 0.1

H: L: H: L:

01:27 07:43 13:52 20:02

2.9 0.0 2.9 0.0

H: L: H: L:

02:11 08:24 14:33 20:45

3.0 0.1 2.9 0.0

H: L: H: L:

02:53 09:05 15:14 21:28

2.9 0.0 2.9 0.1

H: L: H: L:

03:36 09:46 15:55 22:11

2.8 0.2 2.8 0.2

2.6 0.3 2.6 0.3

H: L: H: L:

04:18 10:27 16:37 22:56

2.6 0.4 2.6 0.4

03:32 09:41 15:48 22:00

2.6 0.4 2.6 0.4

H: L: H: L:

05:04 11:11 17:22 23:45

2.3 0.6 2.4 0.6

H: L: H: L:

04:06 10:15 16:22 22:37

2.5 0.5 2.5 0.5

H: 05:54 L: 12:00 H: 18:15

2.1 0.8 2.2

H: L: H: L:

04:44 10:53 17:03 23:21

2.3 0.6 2.4 0.6

L: H: L: H:

00:44 06:57 13:02 19:21

0.8 1.9 1.0 2.0

H: 05:29 L: 11:39 H: 17:53

2.2 0.8 2.2

L: H: L: H:

01:58 08:15 14:21 20:41

1.0 1.8 1.1 1.9

L: H: L: H:

00:16 06:29 12:40 18:59

0.8 2.0 0.9 2.1

L: H: L: H:

03:19 09:37 15:43 21:57

1.0 1.8 1.1 2.0

L: H: L: H:

01:30 07:48 14:01 20:23

0.9 1.9 1.0 2.1

L: H: L: H:

04:27 10:41 16:47 22:56

0.9 1.9 1.0 2.1

L: H: L: H:

02:58 09:17 15:29 21:47

0.8 2.0 0.9 2.2

L: H: L: H:

05:19 11:29 17:35 23:43

0.8 2.1 0.8 2.2

L: H: L: H:

04:17 10:33 16:43 22:56

0.7 2.2 0.7 2.4

L: 06:00 H: 12:08 L: 18:16

0.7 2.2 0.7

L: H: L: H:

05:20 11:33 17:42 23:52

0.5 2.4 0.5 2.6

L: H: L: L:

06:13 12:23 18:32 04:45

0.2 2.6 0.3 0.5

Full moon

10 11 Last quarter moon

12 13

128

17 New moon

Full moon

| April 2015 | The Gazette

H = High L = Low

AYUNTAMIENTOS Arrecife ...................................928 812750 Haria.......................................928 835251 San Bartolome .......................928 520657 Teguise ...................................928 845001 Tias.........................................928 833619 Tinajo......................................928 840021 Yaiza.......................................928 836220 BRITISH SCHOOLS British School of Lanzarote..928 810085 Colegio Europeo Daos ...........928 515818 Colegio Hispano Británico ......928 173066 Colegio Arenas .......................928 590835 Queen’s School (Playa Blanca) ................................................928 518899 CHEMIST Puerto del Carmen (Aquarium) ...............................................928 513207 Puerto del Carmen (Fariones)928 515588 Playa Blanca ..........................928 518942 Costa Teguise (CC Jablillo) ....928 826628 Costa Teguise (Av Islas Canarias) .................928 590423 CHURCHES Anglican Chaplai ............................................... 928 514241 Family Church Pastor Chris Herman ...............................................618 186755 Christian Worship Centre, Playa Blanca, Pastor Victor Hardwick ..................... 620 309684 Sunday Worship Rev Adrian Hallet ...............................................928 346465 Norwegian Church Abroad .....928 515656 Pastor Knut Kaldestad............616 407693

MEDICAL SERVICES British Surgery Lanzarote.......928 514274 OR FREEPHONE ..................900 811555 Hospital Arrecife .....................928 595000 Alcoholics Anonymous ...........928 515107 Dr. Mager Clinic......................928 512611 Hospiten Lanzarote ................928 596100 POLICE Arrecife ...................................928 811317 Haría ......................................928 835252 San Bartolome .......................928 520712 Teguise ...................................928 845252 Tias.........................................928 834101 Yaiza.......................................928 830107 POST OFFICES Costa Teguise.........................928 827268 Playa Blanca ..........................928 518389 Puerto del Carmen .................928 510381 SPORT ORGANIZATIONS Club La Santa Events Office....928 599999 TAXI RANKS Airport ....................................928 520176 Arrecife ...................................928 800806 Haría ......................................620 315350 Teguise/Costa Teguise ...........928 806233 Puerto del Carmen/Tías .........928 524220 San Bartolomé .......................928 520176 Tinajo......................................928 840049 Yaiza/Playa Blanca .................928 524222 TELEPHONE (MOVISTAR) Faults.................................................1002 Directory Enquiries............................11811 International Directories ..................11825 THE GAZETTE Telephone...............................928 511515 Fax .........................................928 512461

CONSULATES Britain .....................................928 262508 Ireland ....................................922 245671 Germany ................................928 491880

TOURIST INFORMATION Arrecife ...................................928 813174 Costa Teguise.........................928 592542 Puerto del Carmen .................928 513351 Playa Blanca ..........................928 518150

CREDIT CARDS - LOST OR STOLEN? 4B...........................................902 114400 AMEX .....................................902 375637 Visa International ...................900 991124

TRANSPORT ITV Station (MOT) ..................928 582555 Intercity Bus............................928 811522

EMERGENCY SERVICES Police, Fire, Ambulances.....................112 Spanish Emergency Services .............061 Red Cross (Ambulance) .........928 812222 Lanzarote Cabildo ..................928 810100

UTILITIES Unelco (Electricity) .................800 760909 Unelco Emergencies ..............900 855885 Canal Gestión (Water)............928 814400 Iberdrola .................................900 225235

FERRIES Naviera Armas........................902 220225 Fred Olsen..............................928 517266 Líneas Romero.......................928 842055

VETS Jane Burke .............................928 513895 ...........................................or 649 910784 Pet Veterinary Surgery ...........928 346207

April 2015

By Clairvoyant Patrick Keaton

Taurus 20 A pr i l t o 20 May Your stubborn nature will be an advantage at work mid-month. While others look for a quick ﬁx, you’ll hold out until a viable longterm solution is found, and reap the rewards . A close friend will need your help this month. Be supportive and help out.

Aries 21 March to 19 April Your gift of getting straight to the point will serve you well at work this month. Your employers want a problem solved, not more beating around the bush. You’ll also be in control when it comes to romance. Express your true feelings to a close friend and he or she will reciprocate.

Gemini 21 May to 20 June Friends will look for you to lead the way this month. They’ll ask you to plan an project for the whole group. While you’re not used to the role of leader, take this opportunity to break the monotony. Work may seem boring early in the month, but enjoy it while it lasts - soon it’s all going to kick off.

Cancer 21 June to 22 July Try not to be such a crabby Cancer this month. Although everything will seem to get on your nerves, try to remain calm and don’t take out your frustrations on co-workers. Go out to lunch, instead of eating in the ofﬁce and draw clear boundaries between work and your private life.

Leo 23 July to 22 August Get right to the heart of family matters this month. Talk to loved ones and ﬁnd out what’ s

wrong. Don’t let your pride blind you to the real situation. However, you shouldn’t let family affairs affect you at work. Those in charge may be considering you for a promotion.

Virgo 23 August to 22 September Be cautious when a co-worker asks to borrow money from you because you’ll also need cash before the end of the month. Is he or she reliable? A close friend will be there for you, so don’t be afraid to conﬁde in him or her. They have your best interest at heart.

Libra 23 September to 22 October Work will pass by happily this month because you’ll be busy working on a new and interesting project. Enjoy it, but do take some time for yourself. Let your enthusiasm for your job ﬂow over into your personal life. Share your excitement with friends and loved ones.

Scorpio 23 October to 21 November Love plays an important part in your life this month. You’ll meet someone who you can’t get off of your mind. Instead of daydreaming about him or her, just make a move. Ask him or her out and ﬁnd out one way or the other. Even if the answer isn´t quite what you hoped for, you´ll be able to move on. Aquarius and Capricorn could be involved.

Sagittarius 22 November to 21 December Stay strong and ﬁrm at work in the middle of the month. You’ll think that there’s a conspiracy against you because all sorts of things will go wrong. Don’t get discouraged, you’re just going through a bad time. Your family life will make up for it.

Capricorn 22 December to 19 January A close friend will be the shining light in your life this month. You’ll be happier than you have been for a long time and everything will seem to go right. It will even make work easier. Don’t get frustrated by workplace politics and the month will ﬂy by.

Aquarius 20 January to 18 February You’ll have freedom at work this month. Your superiors will give you free rein over an important project and you´ll realize it’s your time to shine. Take every opportunity! Your precise, analytical mind will help you make the best decisions.

Pisces 19 February to 20 March Your compassion will be needed by loved ones this month. Help them calm down and try to boost their spirits. They’ve always been there for you. A close friend will bring you good news at the end of the month. It will give you a brighter outlook on life.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 129

Lanzarote People

a.k.a.

The Mad Cat Lady Barbarella Buchner is already well-known to many on Lanzarote, but last year she made headlines all over the world after writing about her ten-year marriage to her two cats Lugosi and Spider. Shaun Addison spoke to Barbarella recently.

n How did it all start, Barbarella? In 2004 I found a website called marryyourpet.com and liked the idea, so I paid ten pounds for a certificate and announced my marriage to Lugosi and Spider on the site.

n So why the recent interest? In 2013 I wrote a light hearted article about the marriage for the massive website Catster.com, and a few months later I started being contacted by journalists. I was featured in the Daily Mail and even found myself on page three of The Sun!

n How was the story handled? It depends. In The Sun, for example, it was what you´d expect, but the Huffington Post piece was a lot more sympathetic. The story has been published as far afield as Vietnam and Ecuador, and there´s also been a lot of TV interest.

n You renewed your vows for the cameras,

didn´t you?

Yes, a TV company came and talked me into doing that event, where Bernie from 9 Lives Lanzarote acted as an official witness. I was also invited to appear on

130

| April 2015 | The Gazette

British TV with my cats, but they´re 16 years old now and I didn´t want to make them travel. Bernie suggested I take two different tabbies, which could have been rehomed in the UK, but the producers refused, which was a shame.

have lived with me for many years, my house is their house and like any married couple, we know each other’s ways.

n What has the response been like?

No, at the most I´d say they haven´t got worse, and part of that is thanks to the animal charities. Sometimes you hear about mistreatment that makes you weep, but then you see things that give you hope, such as a recent video of the rescue of a cat that had somehow got stuck up a huge palm tree on Lanzarote.

It´s been immensely positive, mostly. There are a few people who say horrible things and seem to think it´s got something to do with sex, but they don´t hurt me.

n Is there a serious aspect to the marriage? Why not? Marriage is a spiritual thing and even with human partners we need to feel a connection before committing to a partner. It´s obviously not a legal arrangement, but it´s also a way of expressing what I feel about these two companions. Lugosi, Spider and Ruby, my six-year-old ginger cat from Sara,

n You do a lot of work with pets on

Lanzarote. Do you think things have improved in terms of animal welfare?

Thanks, Barbarella Barbarella runs the Cat Lovers Lanzarote group on Facebook, as well as a special group she has set up for the Harbour Cats PDC, devoted to the cats that are becoming an increasing tourist draw in the Old Town.

The Gazette | April 2015 | 131