Island Connections 695 by Island Connections Media Group

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1984 - 2013

The Canary Islands’ biggest fortnightly English newspaper read by thousands of tourists & residents

Edition # 695 / 17th - 30th May 2013 / 1.80€ at Newsagents /

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wo Britons took the T top prizes in the highly Maspalomas Gay Pride 2013 successful Gay Pride de Mr Gay in the Gran Canaria’s Gay Pride Week went to 26 year old Ashley Rogers and the Miss Lesbian title went to 22 year old Saskia Codrington. The international appeal of the event was underlined by the other winners on the podium. Ashley was accompanied by second placed Villy Bulgarou of Bulgaria and in third place, Italian born Dennis Simerano, whilst Saskia’s companions were Las Palmas native Alejandra Socorro and Londoner, Carmen Zapatero in second and third places respectively. The events attracted massive participation from the LGBT community, including an estimated 50,000 of gay tourists from beyond Gran Canaria. According to the organisers, Saturday’s highlight event, the Gay Pride Parade through the streets of the resort, drew around 60,000 people, who endured scorching temperatures of 32ºC and above to take part in or watch the colourful four hour procession. The local tourism authorities say that 60 per cent of

British Pride holiday accommodation in Maspalomas was taken up by visitors who arrived expressly for Gay Pride week. The island’s biggest paper La Provincia, devoted the vast majority of its Saturday supplement to the programme of Rainbow events and activities and the coverage included the interesting statistic, from the local hotel and tourism federation, that throughout the year gay tourism now accounts for a full 12 per cent of Gran Canarias’ holidaymakers.

tablishment catering exclusively for homosexuals back in 1994. Originally created to inject life into the Yumbo nightspots, the annual Gay Pride celebration, which lasted for nine days this time, has been a

regular event in the south of the island for 12 years now and is going from strength to strength according to the organisers. Sadly, Britons were also in the

news for behaving badly, as one man was arrested for arson in the same Yumbo centre and another for dangerous drunk driving in Cabo Blanco, Tenerife.

National News >>

Residencia confusion The official reply Page 2

Blevins Franks >>

Green heritage La Gomera Pages 10 & 11

Property >>

Moving money? The best deal

The pull-out also carried a detailed interview with Manuel Domínguez, the man widely credited with initiating the gay holiday sector in Maspa lomas when he opened the first es-

Page 20

Living & Lifestyle >>

Thrilling and chilling Cool ideas Pages 46 & 47

Maspalomas 2013 nine-day festival.

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CanaryIslands

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

SPANISHGOVERNMENT

he controversy over the need to renew ‘residence’ certificates issued to EU nationals living here full-time shows no signs of letting up, even though the confusion appears largely limited to the south of Tenerife, a point not lost on the Spanish authorities we consulted directly on the matter last week. Much has been published on the subject recently in local English language papers and/or posted on popular ex-pat forums. The information has sent many rushing to their local police station to renew their ‘green sheet’ which is, strictly speaking, a Registration Certificate as opposed to a certificate of residence - before it expires, even though no such instruction or expiry date appears on the crucial piece of paper, which replaced the photobearing residence cards that were scrapped for EU nationals when Spain was forced to fall into line with EU rules several years ago. It remains unclear where the initial information that triggered the renewal rush came from. To confuse the situation even further, the details posted by people narrating their experiences after dutifully turning up (and often queuing for ages) at police stations have varied greatly depending on the location. Britons attending the station in Playa de Las Américas

Legal status RESIDENCE RENEWAL CONFUSION: THE OFFICIAL RESPONSE

report that they have apparently been told that the fiveyear renewal requirement does exist and the consequences of failing to renew on time can be serious, including applicants being forced to begin the process all over again, only this time with the added requirement that they must furnish proof that they have the means to support themselves and are covered by appropriate health insurance. Others have been told by various sources, including it seems at the station,

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that there is also a legal obligation to exchange the A4size sheet of paper for the more recent card-size certificate, again with “dire consequences” in the event of non-compliance. However, over in Puerto de la Cruz, a written enquiry by this newspaper to the Extranjeros office at the station produced the reply that “as far as we know, there have been no changes to the regulations. Certificates of permanent residence issued to EU nationals are valid indefinitely”. Very clear but not much help to those who believe the information which is circulating like wildfire and do all they can to find the time to go along to their police station just in case. In a bid to resolve the confusion, we contacted the main Extranjería Office in Santa Cruz, whose telephone number is given on their of-

ficial website as 922 999 000, although this turns out to be the general number for the Spanish government’s official representation here in Tenerife , known as the Subdelegación de Gobierno. Extranjería is allegedly accessible by pushing the number ‘8’ button on the menu once you are through, but (at least on the days we tried) instead of a friendly official able to deal with your residence enquiry, the extension turns out to be a fax which only wants to ‘talk’ to machines of its own kind. Thankfully, Damaris Ferraz, the Press Officer at the main Spanish government office in the Canaries, proved more helpful and she quickly put us in touch with senior officials at the Interior Ministry in Madrid, who listened carefully to what we had to say and seemed genuinely puzzled by the reports doing the rounds here. They too were surprised to discover that only Tenerife appears to be affected by the renewal “obligation” and promised to check all the current regulations to give a definitive response as soon as possible. This they duly did, within 24 hours, first by telephone and then - at our request - in

writing. The answer was issued by the Comisaría General de Extranjería y Fronteras, i.e. the HQ of all the departments in police stations that issue residence cards for non-EU citizens and registration certificates for EU citizens etc. In response to two specific questions, namely, a) Are holders of A4 Registration Certificates legally obliged to exchange them for the newer card format? and b) Are EU citizens holding Registration Certificates obliged to renew them after five years, even though there is no expiry date indicated? the following was received (in Spanish but now translated into English for readers): “Dear Sir, Please find attached the reply to your query. Kind regards Comisaría General de Extranjería y Fronteras” “The relevant EU legislation is transposed in [Spain’s] Royal Decree 240/2007, of February 16, which regulates entry, free movement and residence in Spain for citizens of EU Member States and of the countries of the European Economic Area. The Royal Decree complies with the provisions of Directive 2004/38/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of April 29 2004 on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Mem-

ber States. Under Article 7 of the Royal Decree, all Union citizens or citizens of another state which is party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area have the right to reside in Spain for a period exceeding three months providing they meet certain conditions. They are obliged to apply in person to the Aliens Office or police station in their intended place of residence to be included in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals (RCE), which is managed by the Directorate General for Police. “Following their inclusion in the Central Register, the Directorate General for Police will issue them with a Certificate of EU Citizen Registration, as proof that they have complied with the registration requirement. This Certificate does not have an expiry date. However, in accordance with Article 10 of the Royal Decree, a person who has resided legally in Spain for a continuous period of five years can be issued, upon request, with a Certificate attesting to their right to live permanently in Spain and wording to that effect shall appear on the Certificate.

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

“In the light of the above and in response to the specific questions you raise: “There is no requirement to exchange a Certificate of EU Citizen Registration in A4 format for the new cardsized version currently being issued. “As stated above, there is no requirement to renew an EU Citizen Registration Certificate five years from the date of issue. However, following five years of continuous residence, upon request the holder can be issued with a new Certificate containing the words ‘permanent resident’.” Needless to say, we have politely suggested that this unequivocal response should be forwarded through internal channels to all police stations, not least to Playa de Las Américas, to make sure everyone is singing from the same hymn-sheet. As with much bureaucracy in this part of the world, the right hand does not always know what the left hand is doing, which can prove an infuriating experience for those caught in the confusion. However, as the senior officials in Madrid who dealt with our enquiry pointed out, it is better to take the time and trouble to clarify matters with the proper authorities rather than take ‘advice’, however well-intended, as gospel. No doubt we will hear more about this time-consuming issue in the weeks and months to come.

Centralisation

Change to passport service for Brits

ritish nationals in Spain wanting to apply for a new passport are advised of an important change in the way they will need to make applications. From May 13, all applications will need to be sent directly to the Identity & Passport Service (IPS) in Belfast in the United Kingdom, instead of the regional passport processing hub in Madrid. All the necessary information about the new passport application process, including a new IPS overseas application form, can be found atwww.gov. uk/overseas-passports. Andy Hamilton, head of the regional passport processing centre in Madrid, says, “In real terms, all that this means is that British nationals living in Spain now need to send their applications to a different address. “Current passport processing times remain the same. If you are renewing your passport, you should allow at least

four weeks from the date the fee is taken and all the correct documentation has been received. “If you are applying for the first time

or you are replacing a lost or stolen passport, you should allow at least six weeks.” The only other change is that the current passport helpline call charges are being removed. Instead of paying for a premium rate phone line, customers will now only have to pay for the cost of a call to the UK. British nationals who lack internet access or want advice are able to call the IPS Customer Service Centre on +44 (0) 300 222 0000. People who need to travel urgently but whose normal passport is unavailable should contact their nearest British Consulate via 902 109 356 or email: info.consulate@fco.gov.uk. Your local Consulate may be able to issue an Emergency Travel Document to help you travel. This change comes just seven years after the introduction of biometric passports when presumably machinery to process the new high-tech passports was updated or replaced around the world.

Traditions >>

Fiestas

Canarian celebrations

his next couple of weeks kicks off with an event in Vilaflor which mixes traditions, gastronomy, local heritage and a lot of fun.

It’s a food fair to celebrate their splendid varieties of white potatoes and from 9am on May 18, they prepare a charcoal burning area and set it alight - uncovering the completed fuel later, there are health and potato identification workshops, wine and food tasting

and it is wound up in the evening with a night hike and a guide to the stars. May 30 is Canarian regional day and there are events in almost all of the boroughs. Expect lots of colourful regional costumes, concerts and traditional games and sports. Ask at your nearest tourist information centre for full details of the events nearest to you, and be aware that banks, offices and some shops and businesses may be closed.

Book review

Read all about it!

any readers will remember Gizmo’s fun column in our pet’s pages, now read the full story! Nobody’s Poodle is a wooftastic ‘tail’ about a loveable ex-pat pooch uprooted from his home in cold, damp, muddy old England to start a new life in Tenerife. He writes, from a canine point of view of course, about settling down in a new country, coping with the cultural differences, and learning the language (although woof-speak is universal, más o menos, there are still some differences which need to be understood, otherwise a dog can have muchos problemas with his furry Latin amigos). Nobody’s Poodle was inspired by Nikki’s educational and promotional work with the animal rescue shelters in Tenerife and she is hoping to donate some of the profits to help them, so make sure that you order your copy and tell all your friends. It’s available from Amazon as a paperback / Kindle e-book priced at €6 / €4. To sniff out more information visit the website: www. NobodysPoodle.com.

CanaryIslands

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

VILLAGES’ DEMOLITION

MOTORWAY PROJECT

Press support

Snail’s pace carriageway

he threat posed by Spanish legislation for beachfront properties in a number of small coastal villages in Tenerife has merited detailed coverage in the country’s top selling current affairs magazine.

Christmas to knock down the last remaining homes. Although Cho Vito was the most high-profile case, thousands of residents in other parts of Tenerife are still fighting to save their mostly self-built homes. Bocacangrejo, near Radazul outside Santa Cruz, El Médano and El Caletón de La Matanza are just three of the areas profiled by Interviú where locals are pre-

pared to go as far as it takes to protect their homes from demolition. “I will slit my throat rather than let them force me out” said Rafael, a retired fisherman in Bocacangrejo who has lived for decades in a slum home on the shore. According to Antonio Alonso, spokesman for the association that represents the people at risk of demolition, the potential for

tragedy is very real. “The law will not be changed until something very serious happens. Nothing was done on the growing problem of evictions for non-payment of mortgages until people started to commit suicide”, he said. According to the association, around 10,000 properties in 109 coastal villages are under threat from the Coasts Law in the Canaries.

The latest poll published by Spain’s Centre for Sociology Research (CIS) shows that Rivero inspires little or no confidence in nearly 80 per cent of peoCompany Details:

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News in Brief >>

Away to Afghanistan

Ratings plummet ple here since he was reelected for a second term exactly two years ago, in 2011. Only nine per cent consider he is doing a good job, half the number compared to the previous poll by the CIS. However, the figures have been challenged by the government, which insists that the survey is not a true reflection of current opinion given that it was conducted back in the au-

For over seven years now, the third lane planned for each carriageway of the TF1 motorway between San Isidro and Playa de Las Américas has been doing the rounds of government offices, but the materialisation of the project seems little closer. The first formality was completed back in November 2005 when the regional government published the public tender to design the widen-

ing of the 20km stretch, including the building of several new bridges and slip roads to connect various fast-growing parts of the south, such as Las Chafiras and Parque de La Reina, to the island’s busiest road. However, little has been done to take the project forward since then and many wonder whether it will ever become a reality. The official version is that the plans have been fully approved but the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment has thrown up a series of issues that need to be addressed before any actual work can begin on the stretch, which will cost over €120 million. The race is on to see which will be slower: the new hospital for the south or the extra motorway lane.

Troop deployment

PRESIDENTIAL POPULARITY

he plunging popularity of regional president Paulino Rivero is a direct consequence of the disastrous policies implemented by Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, according to the Canarian government.

hile all the roadW building attention focuses at present on the ‘on-off’ saga of the link road between Tenerife’s two motorways another, and for many just as important, major road improvement continues to make the progress of a snail during siesta time.

(Credit David Spinnael)

An edition of Interviú earlier this month included as its main feature an examination of the plight of dozens of areas of the island where the battle to save homes built on the shore continues. As reported here, the strict application of the 1988 Coasts Law by the Ministry of the Environment means that all privately owned properties within a 100 metre distance of the shore could be under threat of demolition for invading public land. Areas affected include the Cho Vito district of Candelaria, where bulldozers were sent in before

Cho Vito’s homes are no more

Dozens of Canarian families are in for an anxious few months as a contingent of troops from the region begins its tour of duty in Afghanistan.

tumn of 2012, long before Rivero revealed a series of anti-crisis measures in the regional Parliament. “The figures are clearly conditioned by the cuts imposed by Madrid. The governing Popular Party’s ratings have slumped since the last general election. If the poll had been taken much more recently there would have been a big difference” said the government’s Jorge Rodríguez.

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A first batch of 164 soldiers departed earlier this month from Gran Canaria to begin a six-month stint at Qala i Naw, replacing their Spanish colleagues in the still troubled country. Their main mission will be to help with reconstruction but also to consolidate security in the run-up to the elections, due to take place in 2014. Officer in charge of the contingent, Colonel Luis Suárez from the Canarian Light Infantry, is no newcomer to Afghanistan, having been there back in 2005. He said he sympathised greatly with the families but insisted that they had “nothing to be concerned about”, as the situation has improved greatly in recent times. “I have four children myself and I know from experience that the tour to Afghanistan inspires concerns. But we are well prepared and our mission is clear” he added.

Contributors: Karl McLaughlin / Barbara Belt Katy Kennedy /Manuel De La Flor George Reed /Chris Todd Head Office Tenerife: C. Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6 First Floor - 38620 Las Chafiras San Miguel de Abona, Tenerife Tel. 922 750 609 Fax 922 795 810 Office Hours: Mon-Fri. 9:30am-16:30pm

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 News in Brief >>

TUI criticises Cabildo

Maspalomas hotel block The controversy over the last-minute blocking of plans for the big new RIU hotel in Maspalomas looks set to extend well beyond the resort.

RIU are said to be furious at the late intervention by the Gran Canaria Cabildo, which rushed through protection status for much of the area around the Oasis Maspalomas Hotel, which the hotel chain closed recently to demolish to make way for a much bigger and more modern one. The decision to protect the surrounding palm groves has effectively put paid to

the plans and RIU responded immediately with a vow to switch up to €50 million in investment to its Tenerife hotels. The spat has already triggered negative reaction from holiday giant TUI, which had high hopes for the new RIU hotel and says that the Cabildo decision is “hard to understand”. Senior TUI boss Arjan Kers said the unexpected development was “a massive disappointment” and hinted that the holiday group might reconsider its loyalty to Gran Canaria. “We have been committed to the island for a long time and had pressed RIU to raise the quality of its Gran Canaria hotels” said Kers, adding that the Cabildo had “blocked a major investment” which would have produced a more modern hotel in keeping with client demands. “This is a big blow for RIU as they had already notified travel agents and other clients that they were closing for a time. A year’s work finalising the project and obtaining the required planning permission has been wasted” said the TUI boss.

PROPERTY CONFISCATION AMENDMENT

News in Brief >>

Crisis cuts deep

Energy fall The demand for energy dropped dramatically throughout the archipelago during the first four months of this year. The island most affected is La Palma where there was an 8.3 per cent drop in electricity requirements, the biggest reduction that has been registered anywhere in the Canaries in the last 15 years. The figures released by electricity company Endesa, comparing statistics with the same period in 2012, show similar declines in other areas. Lanzarote suffered the next highest reduction, at 6.5 per cent, followed by La Gomera with 6.2. Tenerife came next at 5.5 per cent, then El Hierro (4.6), Gran Canaria (4.2) and last, and least, Fuerteventura with a 2.5 per cent decrease. The dramatic fall in requirements appears to be due to two worrying reasons. The first is the reduction of economic activity and the second is the necessity of households to continue cutting costs as the crisis persists.

Approval anticipated

he Canarian government hopes to have its new legislation regarding the expropriation of empty repossessed proper ties in force by the summer. Following the lead taken by Andalusia, the government is to amend the region’s Housing Law to give itself powers to ‘confiscate’, for a period of three years, homes taken back by banks from mortgage defaulters if the properties remain empty.

The repossessed homes will be rented out very cheaply to low-income families, with priority given to those who have lost their own homes due to bank foreclosures. It is hoped that the final touches to the amended legislation will be completed very shortly, after which it will be submitted for Parliamentary approval. A few details have still to be ironed out, however, such as who will be liable to pay the local IBI property tax in

respect of homes expropriated for the scheme.

TENERIFE PEARL

Lend a hand

enerife Pearl recently announced their dedication to helping children in need by supporting the Red Cross ‘Back to School’ solidarity campaign. The campaign is aimed at supporting around 100 children, from the Adeje, Arona, Puerto de la Cruz, Can-

delaria, Santiago del Teide, Guía de Isora and Santa Cruz areas, whose families presently find themselves in financial difficulties. From now until the end of August a fundraising bracelet will be on sale in all of Tenerife Pearls eight shops in Tenerife and Gran Ca-

naria, as well as online at: w w w.tener i fepea rl.com and www.perlacanaria. com. For the sale of each bracelet one euro will be donated towards the Red Cross fund which will help families with the cost of school supplies for the new term in September.

CanaryIslands

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

La Palma >

he earliest human settlements found here on the site of the ancient Tedote, today’s La Palma, date back to the first half of the first millenium BC, when a succession of emigratory waves of North Africans came across to settle the island. Sites such as Morro de Las Nieves and La Erita are fascinating to visit to get an impression of the presence of these early settlers, whose rock carvings, vessels, irrigation channels and cave paintings are still visible. The city was originally called Villa del Apurón and was founded by Alonso Fernández de Lugo, on 3 May, 1493. Its port served as a connecting point on the new routes opening to the Americas. As the seat of La Palma’s power, Santa Cruz naturally became prominent in the economic and socio-political development of the island and, as pre-conquest native populations mixed with their Spanish conquerors and other Europeans, the Palmero, or La Palma islander, evolved. Santa Cruz de La Palma’s history is usually discussed in pre, and post, 1553 periods, due to events that took place on 21 July that year, when islanders were surprised by an invasion of seven hundred French corsairs. The capital was seized and held by the invaders for ten days, who then destroyed it before being expelled. Present day visitors can enjoy the very pleasing consequences, as the capital was well planned and beautifully rebuilt after the French invasion, and is largely intact today. Thanks to its boat building and silk industries, Malvasia wine exports and expanding, lucrative commerce in linking Old and New Worlds, the capital thrived. It was the first place in all of Spain’s considerable empire to introduce elections and, subsequently, democracy, predating the American

La Palma celebrates By Barbara Belt

Santa Cruz de La Palma is the picturesque capital ‘city’ of the island of La Palma and is located on the east coast of the island, along an old lava flow from the Caldereta volcano.

independence and constitution. Amongst other Canary Islanders, La Palma’s islanders are reputed to be excessively proud of their status as Palmeros. The probable reason for this is there in the capital’s history. This tiny city really

does have a r e m a r k a bl e story of importance and power, given its isolated position on a small island in the Atlantic, off the west coast of Africa. Its geographical position is, of course, very much the same as the other six Canary Islands, but its successful commercial ex-

ploitation of the particular role it invented and played as bridge between the Old and New Worlds was unparalleled. It was, for example, involved in international, trans-Atlantic trade with regular scheduled passenger and cargo services when neighbouring La Gomera was still largely cut off from the outside

world. In 1558, this little capital was, incredibly, the third most important port in the world, due to its vital role in trade with ‘the Indies’, or Americas. It’s an interesting and attractive place to visit, especially this year as it celebrates the five hundred and twentieth anniversary of its founding, coinciding with the May Holy Cross fiestas. Santa Cruz is of course Holy Cross in English. Retired teacher Nelsa González Cabrera made an emotional start to the Fiestas de Mayo proceedings, with a rousing speech stressing the value of this month of special events, “We feel more vital, renewed and disposed to open our hearts to love others,” she declared, in an opening event that had been moved inside the town hall due to bad weather and was interrupted many times by standing ovations from the crowds. Doña Nelsa, as she is known by the hundreds of ex pupils she taught during her four decades of teaching, went on to talk about, “The great beauty of the

city in both human and aesthetic terms,” stressing that the, “Fiestas De Mayo rest on two pillars. One is religious practice and the other is the response of the town over the centuries, which has been one of effort, responsibility and great creativity - qualities which the men and women of this island possess in abundance.” Roars of approval met her words. To say that the programme of events celebrating the capital’s anniversary is ample is an understatement. Anyone living in the Canaries should go at least once and this year the ferry companies are offering serious reductions. Until 1 June, there is such a wide range of cultural, musical and artistic treats on offer, everything from classical music to Cuban Son; modern theatre to traditional tenderetes with folk dance and song; fireworks to decorated crosses; tapas routes to gourmet feasts and street markets to children’s festivals, that to list them all here would be impossible.

See <www.fiestasdem a y o 2 013 . b l o g s p o t . com> or <www.santacruzdelapalma.es> for full details.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

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EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Carnival Queen tragedy

Designer blamed

he results of the investigation by Spanish police into the backstage fire that almost killed a Carnival Queen contestant in February were recently revealed. The report appears to point the finger of blame at costume designer Guillermo Jorge, although questions are also raised with respect to how the incident was initially dealt with by Santa Cruz’s city police. According to media sources, the 400 page report compiled in the weeks after the fire describes how CCTV footage shows the designer handling the firework-type device, which was part of the outfit worn

Recinto Ferial

by another contestant, a short time before it went off and set the dress of Saida Prieto alight as she was about to walk on stage. The device, adds the report, should not have been allowed in an enclosed

space with so many members of the public. The minutes after the fire were very badly handled by the officers from the local force, says the team of investigators, who are particularly critical of

Santa Cruz

enerife capital Santa Cruz’s historic connection with the sea will become even stronger thanks to the opening of its new tunnel. The subway will take much of the seafront traffic off the road, according to city mayor José Manuel Bermúdez. After a bitter argument between three levels of government over who would pay for its upkeep, the 500 metre tunnel, which will be used by around 35,000 vehicles daily, has finally been

Seafront facelift

the failure to safeguard the chain of evidence. As reported here at the time, officers from the Spanish Police were prevented from examining the scene at the Recinto Ferial Exhibition Centre due to a dispute over who had jurisdiction over the incident. The injured girl spent almost two months in the country’s top Burns Unit in Seville due to the seriousness of her injuries, which are expected to scar her for life. The organisers drew heavy criticism at the time for allowing the Gala Show to continue as if nothing had happened despite the fact that Saida has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

an-friendly. “We want to turn the whole area into a recreation spot for use particularly by families and we have a number of projects in mind. The absence of traffic will enable people to get even closer to the seafront” explained the mayor, who announced that a new children’s park will take the defeat of the attempted invasion of Santa Cruz by Lord Nelson in Some of the main road area will be regained 1797 as its theme. A big opened to traffic and the now to revamp much of new skate park is also to city authorities are ex- the area next to the port be built along the seafront, pected to move quickly to make it more pedestri- the council has revealed.

Aloha Championship

Mental challenge oung minds were stretched to their limits Y recently during the first Aloha Mental Arithmetic Challenge at the Costa Adeje College. Contestants were asked to make 70 calculations in five minutes using only an abacus and their brains. Around 250 children between the ages of five and 13 took part in the championship, but there could only be three winners. In the category for the oldest competitors 10 year old Alejandro Fernández achieved the best score, whilst eight year old Victoria Bravo de Laguna and Bárbara Ponce de León, at the tender age of six, were the best in the following two sections.

News in Brief >>

Rastro racism row

Market manhandling Santa Cruz’s normally placid Sunday fleamarket (Rastro) was the scene of an ugly confrontation recently. The fracas ended with the culprits in police cells and facing a court appearance. The clash between police and a group of South American street musicians made the local headlines, with each side accusing the other of being to blame for the incident. The row started when an elderly couple of traders complained to police that their allocated patch in the market had been taken by the musicians who refused to move. Officers are said to have tried to deal with the dispute discreetly at first, but tensions mounted as others became involved and pushing and shoving ensued. Reinforcements were called and the four street musicians were eventually restrained and taken away. Stallholders said afterwards that the four regularly occupied the spots of others, while the president of the Rastro traders association confirmed that they had “caused trouble” on previous occasions. However, the official version of events is disputed by the musicians, who say they were harassed and insulted by police and even invited to go back to their countries. “Offensive comments about our origins were made, particularly by one of the policemen. A colleague filmed everything on his mobile phone but it has been taken from him” they said afterwards.

Unruly revenge

Ram and chase Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, as the old saying goes, and the ex-boyfriend of a young Santa Cruz woman would probably agree. The man’s BMW car was nearly written off by his former sweetheart after a late night argument when the pair coincided in a city nightspot. Police were called to the scene of the row between the ex-couple after the woman was seen repeatedly ramming her VW Polo into the side of the BMW, having already been heard by witnesses threatening to “set it on fire”. The 23-year-old woman was detained for questioning and a background check revealed that she had been banned from driving until September. She was released into the custody of a friend pending further inquiries into the incident but was spotted by the same patrol 10 minutes later at the wheel of her car. A dramatic chase ensured through the streets of Santa Cruz but she managed to give her police pursuers the slip.

Tenerife Sur Lions

Dream holidays This year’s recipients of the Tenerife Sur Lions’ Dream Holidays were 32 special needs and underprivileged youngsters including six from Warsaw. In an action packed week, they enjoyed the Medieval Castle of San Miguel, Loro Parque, Siam Park, a boat trip to see the whales and dolphins and a fabulous farewell party with live entertainment at their hotel in Los Cristianos. Thanks go to everybody who made it possible. Those who generously donate to, and buy from, the Lions charity shops, volunteers and members who staff them, Princesa Dacil Hotel, Castillio San Miguel, Fundación Loro Parque, the Monte Carlo ship, Cozy Café, Ian Anderson and Vanna Shows plus many, many, more. Special appreciation awards were given to the Princesa Dacil Hotel and the Cozy Café (packed lunches) for their help and participation.

TenerifeGeneral

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

German tourism market

Gran Canaria revisited

Ideal visitors

Loyalty rewarded T

enerife’s tourism authorities have taken advantage of the news that FTI, Germany’s fourth biggest tour operator, is to launch flights to the island.

Danish couple recently celebrated their 62nd holiday in Gran Canaria. Gran Canaria rightly prides itself on the number of repeat visitors it has built up over the years, but even by the island’s standards the Danish couple’s record takes some beating. Watchmaker John Otteson and his wife Karen first holidayed on their favourite island back in 1982 and their dedication, after clocking up an incredible 62 visits, has not gone unrecognised. During their latest jaunt the Ottesons were honoured by the Tourist Board for their unswerving loyalty. The Copenhagen couple were the guests of honour at a ceremony in the Reina Isabel Hotel in Las Palmas, where they received a bouquet of flowers, a collection

of CDs by the Gran Canaria Philharmonic Orchestra and a plaque commemorating their fantastic achievement. The island’s tourism chiefs described them as Gran Canarias’s best ambassadors in their home country. The couple has made the long trip from Denmark four times in 12 months during several

The beauty of Gran Canaria is a constant draw for the couple

years and they have already booked their holiday for next Christmas. Karen surprised the hosts of the ceremony by giving her acceptance speech in Spanish and confessed that she had been taking private lessons with a Cuban teacher of late.

The connections, which will fly from several cities as of autumn of this year, underline the importance of the German market for the island. The new flights from Munich, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Cologne, Dusseldorf and Leipzig will bring an average of 1200 additional holidaymakers from the country every week from November onwards and tourism bosses are delighted with the decision. With 600,000 holidaymakers, Germans are the third most important nationality for Tenerife, after Britons and Spaniards, and the profile of the typical

holidaymaker is much sought after by the industry. According to the Cabildo’s detailed surveys, the average German tourist travels as a couple, is aged 47 and earns around 54,000 euros, considerably more than other visitors to the island. Almost half of all the Germans who come here for a holiday

repeat the experience, making them among the most loyal of all tourists. Importantly for the sector, 80 per cent do more than just soak up the sun while here and actively seek other activities. High on their list of leisure interests are walking and visits to museums and historical buildings.

SpecialFeature

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La Gomera

Glorious green heritage

We finally made time to visit La Gomera after the shocking fires of last summer and were delighted to find it still stunningly beautiful as reported.

es, there is visible damage, mainly along the main roads around the island, but for anyone who takes the trouble to go into the interior of the island, especially on foot, it is as gloriously green and flourishing as it ever was.

capital, visiting and revisiting such

Taking advantage of an early start, we first spent some time in the

ding towards Alajero we hit the first

historic sites as the Church of La Asunción, the Torre del Conde and the Aguada well, where it is said that Christopher Columbus drew the water to replenish his ships before finally sailing to the Americas for the first time. Leaving the capital and heasigns of fire damage at the Roque de

Agando, a landmark rock formation just off the highway, but elsewhere there are still spectacular views over to Tenerife and Teide, sharp ravines with tiny hamlets nestled along the bottom, impressive cliffs and hillsides full of Canarian palm trees. After a late picnic lunch in La Laguna Grande, which has legends

of witches and now boasts a tiny visitors’ centre, we headed for the road down to our chosen base for our stay, the Hotel Gran Rey in Valle Gran Rey which is reached by a twisting road running down the ravine with a wealth of lookout points over the magnificent landscapes. This relatively small, superbly run,

and very friendly beachfront hotel is without doubt an excellent choice for anyone who wishes to really discover the interior of the island or the ocean. It also has a very high reputation and has received numerous awards for its environmental policies, as well as having modern rooms, comfortable beds and an ample and varied buffet meal service. On this occasion, the boat was pushed out and we had one of their superior rooms, thoroughly enjoying the extra space to stretch out in and added extras after time spent walking though the trails of the island. Views are either of the mountains or the sea and the sunsets are some of the most spectacular you will ever experience. We awoke to the sight and sound of the waves on the beach, some 30 metres from the balcony, and enjoyed an enormous leisurely breakfast in the balconied top floor restaurant before strolling along the beachfront past the Charco del Conde to Playa de Vueltas. Then it was into the car to check-out another area tied in with witchcraft, the Chorros de Epina. Back up the long road in the ravine and a left turn in the direction of Vallehermoso, the famous Chorros are not very far along the top road. Nothing is very far, however the geography of the island with its striated ravines (think of a lemon squeezer) means journeys – and hikes – often

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

down the valley, is a tiny restaurant with excellent prices – La Vista. Well used to walkers, they usually have a large log fire on the go and a wicked home-made liqueur on offer called montañero. Specialising in Canarian food, a favourite dish is the watercress soup which is served in wooden bowls with optional gofio (toasted, ground cereals) to sprinkle on it – very welcome after a stroll through the woods! If the weather permits, there are long tables and log seats on the balcony, whilst the inside tables enjoy panoramic windows to make sure you don’t miss any of the views. It’s a grand way to end a very full day’s tourism before heading back for a rest and the hotel’s very generous buffet. It was a short visit meaning that the following day we were heading back to Tenerife, but there was still time for a little sightseeing. After

returned comforted in the knowledge that so very much of the island is untouched, beautiful and as worth visiting as it ever was take longer than expected. Parking on the top road we passed the tiny San Isidro hermitage and followed the instructions on the sign at the Chorros to discover the way to our true loves! Following the road, we drove through Vallehermoso, past another famous landmark Roque Cano and more ravines and hillsides filled with palm trees, heading for the Juego de Bolas visitors’ centre in Las Rosas, Agulo. It’s a small centre but gives a very good idea of the history, geography and culture of the island,

particularly the guanche (original island dwellers) inheritance, and they also have regular exhibitions of La Gomera’s curious and distinctive whistling language. The centre is just on the border of the Garajonay National Park: a Unesco World Heritage Site and an enclave of the endemic laurisilva with its characteristic hanging moss and earthy scent. We made for El Cedro and a favourite restaurant and camping ground. There, in the south east of the national park, at the top of a ravine with fabulous views

SpecialFeature

another great breakfast and a fond farewell from the Hotel Gran Rey staff we took a different road out of the valley, heading towards El Cercado, a small centre of the ceramics cottage-industry on the island. Pots and dishes are still hand-made in the traditional way using a lot of original guanche designs and methods handed down over the centuries. Well worth stopping in for a look and a great place to buy authentic souvenirs for yourself or gifts for friends and family. Just along the road is the unusual local church and the monument to the Gomeran whistlers. A visit to the Alto de Garajonay, the highest point in the island at 1,487 metres and a site of sanctuary, as well as religious and historical importance to the guanches, was stymied by the weather. What should have been amazing, unhindered panoramic views of almost the whole island, as well as El Hierro, Tenerife, and even Gran Canaria and La Palma on a very clear day, was a complete whiteout with mist. However the panels that are sited up there are very interesting and still worth a visit. We stopped at the monument to

the Sacred Heart overlooking the port of San Sebastián and visited the Parador hotel on the cliff top, an old converted Canarian mansion with views over the port and sea and finally to the little Playa de la Cueva next to the ferry port and its extravagant and attractive torch look out point. We returned a little sadly as the visit was so short and there is so much more to see and visit such as the gofio mills, the famous organ pipes and the giant lizards, to name but a few. However, we also returned comforted in the knowledge that so very much of the island is untouched, beautiful and as worth visiting as it ever was, especially those many kilometres of unique and glorious tracks and trails.

For a visitors guide to the national park, see reddeparquesnacionales.mma.es/ and for more information on the Hotel Gran Rey: www.hotelgranrey.es/ (don’t miss the discounts for residents).

Business PROMO

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www.swiss-shop4u.com

C.C. Atlántico Vecindario

Swiss-Shop4U is a successful chain of Swiss shops in the Canaries. There are currently four stores in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, which offer the Swiss identity to the Islands via the following brands:

C.C. Plaza del Duque Local B31, Planta 1 38660 Costa Adeje · Tenerife

C.C. Plaza del Duque

C.C. Tres de Mayo

Swiss-Shop4u opened its first shop on August 2, 2012, thereby beginning their rapid expansion in the Islands. In less than seven months they had opened four shops, divided between Gran Canaria (C.C. El Muelle and C.C. Atlántico Vecindario) and Tenerife (C.C. 3 de Mayo and C.C. Plaza del Duque). The shops are inspired by and designed on typical

Swiss elements, where the colours black and white flow and blend with basic materials such as stone and wood, evocative of the elegance and precision for which the Swiss are so well known. The goods on sale in the shops are varied and well thought out - to satisfy the necessities of their clients. You can find Swiss knives, high precision

C.C. El Muelle

watches, sunglasses, reading glasses, back-packs, trolleys, suitcases, accessories and fashion. The essential characteristic of all the goods is that they are Swiss or have Swiss components and production standards, thus guaranteeing their high quality and durability, as well as offering an excellent relationship between price and quality.

C.C. Tres de Mayo

C.C. El Muelle

C.C. Atlántico Vecindario

Av. 3 de Mayo Nº 9, Local 1 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Muelle de Santa Catalina S/N, Local 21 35008 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Calle Adargona S/N, Local 35 35110 Santa Lucía de Tirajana · Las Palmas

Business NEWS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

Spain’s anti-tax fraud success

By Bill Blevins, Financial Correspondent, Blevins Franks

uropean governments have been stepping up their crackdown on tax evasion as part of their efforts to raise revenue to bring down their budget deficits. The Spanish authorities, in particular, have raised their game over recent years, implementing a number of new measures to find those who are not declaring all their income and assets as required under Spanish tax law. Their biggest recent measure is of course the new obligation to report all assets held outside Spain. Modelo 720 had to be submitted by the end of April if you were resident in Spain last year. This is a significant

development in Spain, and it will reap rewards for the government over the years to come, but in the meantime the tax office has other tools it has been using with success. The Spanish government has released data on the results of its fraud prevention and anti-tax fraud measures in 2012. The measures led to a 10.1 per cent increase in the total revenues attributed to the fight against tax fraud, with the total income from these measures standing at €11.52 billion for the year. The tax office noticeably increased inspection activity in relation to new sources of information, such as the transfer of currency to countries that are no longer considered tax havens. Another key source of information was the data provided by electricity companies on consumption. This helped them track down undeclared leases

Hacienda is checking electricity bills to find undeclared lettings

and secondary residences. Electricity companies are now obliged to provide information to the Hacienda (tax office) regarding the electricity consumption of every property in Spain.

We warned that the authorities would be able to use this data to determine if a property which is declared as empty is in fact being rented out or used for business purposes. Analysis of the data

has led to 4,700 investigations on rented properties last year. The authorities can also use the electricity data to catch people who are living in Spain permanently but have not registered for, nor been paying, tax in Spain. Looking ahead, Spain’s new anti-fraud law will be the fundamental pillar in the tax office control strategy in 2013. General guidelines were published in the Official State Gazette in March. One of the priorities will be to analyse new information on goods and accounts overseas. The tax office will look at taxpayers who did not submit Modelo 720, but who appear to conduct transactions abroad that imply that they do have hidden assets and rights outside Spain’s borders. It is important to understand and comply with all the Spanish tax regulations if you are resident

in Spain. The same applies if you are not resident but own property here or receive an income from Spain. Any tax planning you use needs to be fully legitimate, and you should seek advice from a tax advisory firm like Blevins Franks on what would be effective for you. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should take personalised advice.

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com You may also contact our partner Paul Montague on Tel: 922 716 079 or Email: paul.montague@blevinsfranks.com

TenerifeEvents

Aviation disaster

t the end of April the anniversar y of the Dan Air crash at Los Rodeos North Tenerife airport was commemorated in North Tenerife. Immediately following the 11.00am Eucharist at All Saints Church in Puerto de la Cruz, a short memorial service was held at the Memorial Rose Garden. The prayers were led by Rev. Mike Smith and this year the congregation was joined by members of a family who lost their mother and father in the crash. It was, as ever, a moving and poignant occasion.

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Time to remember

Dan-Air was an independent airline based in the United Kingdom. On April 25, 1980, one of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boeing 727â&#x20AC;&#x201C;46s crashed whilst preparing to land after a long charter flight from Manchester. Horrifically, flying in cloud, the aircraft turned in the wrong direction when asked to take a holding pattern and flew into the forest on mount La Esperanza. The aircraft was completely destroyed and all 146 passengers and crew were killed. Sadly, it came all too soon after the worst

aviation disaster in history which took place on March 27, 1977, when two Boeing 747 passenger aircrafts collided on the runway of Los Rodeos Airport, killing 583 people.

Aniversary >>

Flying the flag

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embers of the Puerto de la Cruz All Saints Parish congregation were recently joined by friends from the south Chaplaincy to celebrate St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day in the church of San Jorge in Santa Cruz (formerly the Anglican Church of St George).

Saint George was born around 280 AD in Greece and became an officer in the Roman army. Well known,

The Feast day is also celebrated in the Community of Aragon, when they remember the Battle of Alcoraz during which St George is said to have appeared at a critical moment for the Christian Army, helping them win the battle. In Catalonia Saint Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day has echos of Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and is also known as the Day of the Rose and, much later, as the Day of the Book. Gifts are exchanged between loved ones and colleagues and in many areas of Valencia the day is also dedicated to the

The service was led by Rev John Adams, the locum from the south, whilst Rev. Mike Smith played the organ and preached. All were pleased to be joined by Vice Consul Helen Keating who is a friend of both churches. Afterwards around 30 celebrants had lunch together in a local restaurant and pledged to get together again over the summer for a joint Songs of Praise service at All Saints. A very good day was had by one and all.

tions include a parade with traditional Moorish and Christian soldiers, but the core of the activities focuses mainly on the dragon slaying legend.

amongst other things, for the tale of Saint George and the Dragon, the earliest documented mention of him in England comes from the venerable Bede (c. 673â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 735). His influence spread

far around the world and Saint Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is celebrated by various Christian churches as well as individual countries and cities. In Spain he is patron saint of CĂĄceres where celebra-

aid the Saint provided the Christians troops and many colourful medieval reenactments take place.

spin

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Multicines GranSur

Side Effects

There are currently two English language films available. Side Effects is a psychological thriller and Iron Man 3 is an odyssey of rebuilding and retribution after Tony Stark’s world is torn apart by a formidable terrorist called the Mandarin. Side effects is in the original English version at the Cine GranSur daily, at 5.50pm; Iron Man 3 at 3.45pm.

Information correct at the time of going to print, but please confirm.

SpinNews

The band :

Los Sabandeños and Los Gofiones Blanket and serge

here is a rare opportunity to see two of the Canary Island’s greatest groups at once coming up soon. Top folk groups Los Sabandeños and Los Gofiones will play together in several exceptional concerts in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Traditional music in the Canaries is represented by many fine names, but these two male choir folklore groups are by far the best known. Los Sabandeños are based in Tenerife and Los Gofiones in Gran Canaria. Through their lyrics and songs both groups have opened out the traditions of the Islands to a much wider audience over

a period of almost five decades and, although quite similar, during this time the groups have maintained very separate identities, whilst both equally forming a part of the islanders’ collective consciousness. Although they have shared many joint appearances, for some time now both ensembles have been working on the idea of combining their talents and voices and this double-bill will provide an unforgettable show that will also serve as a symbol of union between the islands. A number of songs especially written for these appearances will be performed, as well as many old favourites. In total there will be around seventy performers on stage

Spain top 10 singles Source: promusicae

Return to the past

Mills, memory and tradition

a Orotava town will be the stage for a return to the past on May 26. A whole host of memories will be relived as the town resonates to the bygone eras of the 1930s to 60s as a multitude of activities representative of the times take place in the historic centre.

knife and blade sharpener, mule drivers, pageants, stall holders, flower carpets and much more will all be there in their traditional costumes. There will also be various exhibitions of old photographs, documents and posters from the era in this zone. The area covering Calle San Francisco, Calle Colegio and Calle Carrera up to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento will also be full of action with food stalls, games, music, dance and crafts stalls. It will be a great day for getting an insight of how things used to be and should be fun for all the family.

The main action will be found in Calle de San Francisco where a shoeshine, old fashioned sweets stall, a

The event will start at 10am and finish with the reenactment of a traditional wedding at 7pm in the evening.

1. Feel this moment Pitbull feat: Christina Aguilera 2. Impossible James Arthur

3. No digas nada Cali y el Dandee 4. Diamonds Rihanna 5. Get lucky Daft Punk 6. Solo tú Paula Rojo

7. Gentleman PSY

8. Te pintaron pajaritos Yandar & Yostin 9. Scream & Shout Will. I. Am Featuring Britney Spears

10. Just give me a reason Pink

Rebel Rock

Güimar

May 24 Local band Indica Sativa will play at the Casa de la Cultura. Tickets are available on the door and cost €5, starts 9pm. See www.guimar.es The Concert :

Evanescence Credit: Victor Fernandes

The Film:

Santa Cruz

June 2 More than 100 musicians will play a fundraising tribute concert to the Rock / Goth group Evanescence at the Guimerá Theatre. Costs €8, starts 7.30pm. See www. teatroguimera.es. giving their all: a unique opportunity to enjoy superb music made in the Canaries. See the concerts every night between May 24 to 26 in the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, and at the Adán Martín Auditorium in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, on June 1 and June 2.

Crafty Adeje

XIII Artisans fair

The exhibition

Ghostly goings on

La Laguna

Until June 30 The Casa Lercaro History and Anthropology museum uncovers the world of the spirits. Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 8pm, Sundays, Mondays and bank holidays 10am to 5pm. See: www. museosdetenerife.org The folklore :

he biggest arts and crafts event in Adeje will take place on May 18 and 19.

Work from some of the best artists and crafts producers from all over the islands will be on sale during the weekend, which will be staged in the town’s Plaza de España. As well as the fascinating array of handmade products there will also be a selection of regional gastronomic delights available. The whole will take place to a background of traditional music and dance. Call: 922 756200 for more information or alternatively see: www.adeje.es.

Amerinca and Guanapay Puerto de la Cruz

May 23 / 24 The two Latin American Folklore legends will take to the stage together at the Castillo Espacio Cultural for a benefit concert in aid of AFATE. Starts 8.30pm, costs €6.

WhatsOn2013

Church services

Living Spring Pentecostal Guaza Calle Almorejo 2, beside the Guaza sports complex. Rev. and Pastor (Mrs) Nelson Olajide Tel: 609 505 915. livingspring75@hotmail.com The Anglican Parish of All Saints Puerto de la Cruz Sunday services 9.30am and 11am. Carretera Taoro 29.Chaplain. Tel: 922 384 038 www.allsaintstenerife.com South Tenerife Christian Fellowship Apolo Centre by bus station Los Cristianos, - Sunday Services AT 11am and 6pm Tel: 922 790 007 or 660 183 760 www.stcf.org Tenerife family church Mothers & toddlers group Tue. 10.30am – 12 noon. Sunday services Costa de Silencio: 10am Coral Mar Square Playa de Las Américas: 11am, Hotel Best Playa de Las Américas: 6pm, Living Room Pastor Bill Jeffery 609 565 528 www.silenciochurch.com Calvary Assembly International Ctra. gerneral Cruz de Guanche Valle San Lorenzo Full Evangelical Christian bilingual fellowship Services: 11am Sunday 7pm Wednesday Mums & Toddlers: Wednesday 10am contact: Pastor Buz & Bettina Eatwell 608 724 364 FB: Calvary Assembly Church Nursery sunday morning/ sunday school Catholic Mass Puerto de la Cruz �� International service Sundays (almost always in English) in the Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia parish church St. Sebastian’s Inclusive Church Mogán, Gran Canaria Sundays 7pm at Cordial Mogán Playa Chapel Anglican church of St. Francis, South Tenerife Playa de Las Américas San Eugenio (Pueblo Canario) Sunday 10.15am - sung Eucharist Los Gigantes Espiritu Santo Sunday 6pm - sung Eucharist Thursday 10.30am - sung Eucharist For further information regarding services, baptisms, confirmations, funerals, confessionals, wedding blessings, renewal of vows, counselling, and pastoral care, please call: 922857990 or 922 793913 North Tenerife Christian Fellowship Evangelical Church meets every Sunday with Services in English at the Scandinavian church behind the main post office, Puerto de la Cruz. Everyone welcome. Sunday service and Sunday school 11.30am Bible sharing Wednesdays 5.30pm. Ladies group meets one morning a month Tel: 922 351 011

Gran Canaria TREKKING Guided treks and other open-air activities. UPNature, Guanarteme 928 270 084/928 473 265, Arucas 928 621 754, Maspalomas 928 764 201, Tablero 928 140 640, Mogán 928 158 805, Aldea de San Nicolás de Tolentino 928 891 252 (www.alberguelaaldea.com) or Valleseco 928 618 740.

ARCHAEOLOGY

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Body Board OAD La Laguna, for over 12s, 922 256 244

www.grancanaria.com

HIKING

Restaurante Embrujo: Flamenco every day

Popular tourist routes

8.30pm – 10.30pm; Jazz on Sundays, 1.30pm - 4.30pm, CC Américas Plaza, Playa de Las Américas, in front of Mare Nostrum resort

922 127 938

Tuesdays: Teno traditions route

THE WEDNESDAY group

Restaurante La Martina: Tango Fridays & Saturdays 9pm - 10.30pm; SundayThursday, live music 9pm10.30pm, CC Américas Plaza (see above)

Los Silos: Guided routes on flora and fauna, 922 841086(cipa@lossilos.es)

Cañadas del Teide National Park: free guided tours, 922 290 129/922 290 183 Wine routes, walks and historical tours, Tegueste, 922 316102 (www.tegueste. es)

Mogán: Sunday

Castles: Groups, 922 825 949

Puerto de Mogán: Friday

Los Realejos. Weekends, groups of 45 plus. Free, 922 346 181.

Telde: Saturday Terór: Sunday Vecindario: Monday & Wednesday – all 8am to 2pm.

LIONS CLUBS Arona, Las Galletas, Costa del Silencio:

Playa del Inglés: Every day except Sunday, 7.30 to 11.30pm.

2nd Sunday/month: Live entertainment, CC Chaparral, Costa del Silencio 2pm-6pm. 628 799 901

Las Palmas Rastro: Sunday 8am to 2pm, bus station.

tenerife

Gofio route, Granadilla de abona. www.degofioxgranadilla.com

Arona: 922 761 600

GUIDED TOURS

Gáldar: Thursday

GASTRONOMY

Thursdays: Masca Ravine

Sundays: Monte del Agua and Kayak trips from Los Gigantes

Arguineguín: Tuesday

Drama classes Santiago del Teide. Two hours/week, adults also welcome. 922 863 127, ext: 234

Ciudadanos Europeos.

Entertainment

MARKETS

CHILDREN’S EVENTS

European Citizens Make friends, help and advice on living here, join in Canarian cultural activities. 922 781 905/ 922 751 507 (eurocitizens@gmail.com)

Guided visits to island’s principal sites: Bentayga (Tejeda), Cenobio de Valerón (Guía) etc. 928 219 229.

www.webtenerife.com

South: Escuela Oficial de la Federación Canaria de Surf K16 (Playa de las Américas). Groups or individual training for over 7s, 922 798 480

Tenerife Craft Chapter, 922 794 502/922 732 386.

Sports & Active Recreation BELLY DANCING

Mondays: 4.30pm – 17.55pm, El Sauzal, 677 380 807

KAYAK ROUTES

Tours combined with snorkelling, hiking, climbing or potholing, 922 127 938

SURFING North: Escuela de Surf and

Lunch meeting: Bar Tapas Luis, Plaza Charco, Puerto de la Cruz 2nd Wednesday/ month, 12.30pm. Art/social Wednesdays. Literary/cultural, Fridays, Bridge, whist etc. All welcome.

English Library,

Calle Irlanda, Parque Taoro, Puerto de la Cruz: Mon 3pm - 5.30pm, Weds 10am - 1pm, Fri 3pm - 5.30pm & Sat 10am - 1pm, 922 383098

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) South:

Los Cristianos. 1st Floor Apolo Centre, Mon, Weds and Sat: 5.45pm, Fri: 11.45am.

Callao Salvaje. Living Sober Group: Local 4 CC Buena Azul, Sueño Azul, Sun 6pm, 630 478 448 (24 hrs).

S.H.E. HELPLINE TENERIFE

Domestic violence support and company. Practical advice, support and help, including contacting the appropriate authorities. You are not alone: (+34) 690 964 145

Lions shops: Apolo Center, M–F, 11am - 3pm. Costa del Silencio, M-F 11am - 2pm. Donations of items welcome, 670 647 If you need police help, ring 765. Book Shop, M-F near the Multi-lingual Police charity shop Central Office, 902 102 112 and ask to speak to an San Miguel de Abona English operator. Meeting 2nd Monday/ month. Auction 1st Friday/month. Events all year, 685542128

Writers’ circle: Parque de la Reina, all welcome. hazel@ hazelbennett.co.uk

La Baranda Wine Museum 922 572 535 GROUP MEETINGS Masons, Tenerife south.

Regular Venues web info Gran Canaria Canarian Tourism Department www.turismodecanarias. com

MASONIC MEETINGS

Logia Ave Fenix Nº 73 Edificio Simón, Los Cristianos Meetings every Tuesday. Regular meetings every 4th Tuesday starting Tuesday 23rd October 2012 (Installation) through to April 2013

All Visitors welcome

Contact John Donaldson (Secretary):

Gran Canaria Tourism Department www.grancanaria.com

(+34) 922 17 91 74 or donaldsonjh@yahoo.co.uk

Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria www.museoelder.org Auditorio Alfredo Kraus Las Palmas de Gran Canaria www.auditorioalfredokraus.com Teatro Pérez Galdós Las Palmas de Gran Canaria www.teatroperezgaldos.es

Tenerife

Tenerife Tourism Department www.webtenerife.com Museums in Tenerife www.museosdetenerife.org La Baranda Wine Museum El Sauzal www.tenerife.es/Casa-vino Auditorio Adán Martín Santa Cruz de Tenerife www.auditoriodetenerife. com TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes Santa Cruz de Tenerife www.teatenerife.es Teatro Guimerá Santa Cruz de Tenerife www.teatroguimera.es Teatro La Victoria Santa Cruz de Tenerife www.elteatrovictoria.com Teatro Leal La Laguna www.teatroleal.com Mansión Abaco Tenerife Puerto de la Cruz www.abacotenerife.com K16 Surfing School Las Américas www.k16surf.com El Cardón Buenavista del Norte www.elcardon.com

Canary CanaryPropertyGuide Guide Who’s buying what where?

www.canarypropertyguide.com Property for Sale / Property to Rent / Vacation Rentals www.canarypropertyguide.c m

EDITION 695

Housing demand

roperty purchases by foreigners now account for 8.12 per cent of the market, the same as before the crisis. If something good has come out of the crisis, it’s that the prices have been cut so much that to speak of buying a house and a bargain in the same sentence is no longer science fiction. This is the reason why all

the statistics published so far ratify the notable increase of the number of foreigners again choosing Spain as the destination for their vacation home. According to the property registrars, 8.12 per cent of the purchases in 2012 were made by foreigners, mainly for tourism purposes. This compares with 6.04 per cent in 2011 and 4.24 per cent in

continue to be higher sales among the second hand homes market, those nationals with the highest purchasing power tend to plump for new properties.

2009. The number of transactions by foreigners last year means a return to precrisis 2007 levels.

What kind of property are foreigners looking for? The British continue to be the biggest of the foreign home buyers in Spain,

accounting for 16.63 per cent of all the purchases, although less than the 23.4 per cent of 2010. The second and third place in the classification is less clear with the French at 9.96 per cent and the Russian market, which has increased in a very short time to take the third slot at 9.62 per cent (overtaking the Germans and, most importantly, a growing demand). Although there

Top of the list are the Dutch where 58.61 per cent choose new properties, followed by the Russians with 56.82 per cent, Swedes with 54.69 per cent, Belgians with 52.96 per cent, Norwegians with 52.83 per cent and the British with 52.1 per cent. The better-off foreigners also tend to choose larger properties, those of over 100 square metres. The Dutch with 49.59 per cent of purchases, Norwegians with 43.46 per cent, Swiss with 43.04 per cent, Russians with 40 per cent and the Danes and Germans with over 36 per cent.

As for that classic favourite, location by regions, almost one in four, 24.95 per cent choose to buy in the Balearics, the second favourite is our own Canary Islands with 22.11 per cent, then Valencia at 18.01 per cent, Murcia with 11.24 per cent, Catalonia at 9.34 per cent and Andalusia with 8.86 per cent. If we look at the most popular provinces Alicante represented 33.39 per cent of the purchases, followed by Tenerife on 27.19 per cent and Gerona at 25.35 per cent. The registrars conclude, “Never has Spain demonstrated such a clear tendency to become a residential tourist destination for foreigners with their own properties”.

IC classifieds / property

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Property Feature ::

Luckily, in the south of Tenerife, one of the most popular areas in the Canary Islands at the moment, there are plenty of wonderful towns and villages to choose from so we decided to take an in-depth look at each of them. All of them share the wonderful benefits of Atlantic views and nearby beaches, yet they also have their own individual attractions.

Location, location, location

ulous beaches only a 10 minute drive away. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants of all different kinds, providing the perfect opportunity for whiling away some time.

Beautiful bay

Property wise, there are a number of options, from one bedroom apartments through to exclusive housing projects, and in this section one in particular stands out above the rest.

When buying or renting a property one of the most important features to take into account is its location. The beautiful seafront walk at La Caleta Credit: Turismo de Tenerife

t is vital to get it right first time if you are buying, so it’s important to spend plenty of time carefully checking out each potential area before committing yourselves.

In the last two editions we covered the two most northerly towns of the Costa Adeje region and here we are heading closer to the heart of the area into La Caleta.

La Caleta

At only eight kilometres from Las Américas and Los Cristianos and 25 minutes from the south airport, it is perfectly situated. The old part has managed to keep its charm, whilst the newer section, being one of the later developments, has been constructed with foresight and style. Wide tree-lined avenues abound, many of the building projects have been executed with an eye for local style, and the whole area exudes a luxurious, yet quaint, feel. In the old town still stand the original fish restaurants which even now attract customers from afar. Balanced right on the water’s edge they offer fine food at reasonable prices in an unbeatable setting. Back in bygone days this area was where the fishermen brought their boats in and housewives would gather to buy their wares and pass some time with their friends and neighbours. The tiny harbour was also used by boats to transport farmer’s goods up and down the

The Magnolia Golf Resort gives you the best of both worlds

The old part of La Caleta retains its traditional charm Credit: Second Home Tenerife

In the 1980s and early 90s when development of the coastal area of Adeje began in earnest La Caleta, which means ‘the cove’ was still a one street fishing village with all the charm that implies. It stood on its own along an undeveloped and beautiful area of coastline that has since become the perfect setting for the fabulous range of hotels and residential areas that can now be found there.

coastline and the area still has a very traditional feel to it, though is now graced with a more modern marina.

instruction centre provides the perfect setting for amateurs, leading national and international teams, and top Olympic level athletes to train in. The village also boasts surfing, scuba diving and sailing installations, and there are plenty of other sports and leisure activities within a stone’s throw.

And just up the road you will find top class hotels, such as the five star Sheraton Resort & Spa, and the prestigious Adeje golf course is only five minutes out of town. As well as drawing top sports players and enthusiasts alike from all Yet, despite the many updates, over the world, the Where better to eat fresh fish? beautiful greens and manicured gardens provide a lush sweeping backdrop to the whole area. In fact, La Caleta is building a fine reputation in the sporting world. The relatively new Tenerife Top Training professional

local traditions are still alive and thriving alongside the new international community, one of the most impressive being the Adeje Romería de San Sebastián when hundreds of pilgrims and animals gather outside the local church before a whole host of riders bring their mounts down to La Enramada Beach for a sea dip – an annual event that is watched by many thousands of fascinated spectators. And all year round those who prefer a restful afternoon are also well catered for as the Playa Enramada beach is easily accessible on foot and there are a number of fab-

Magnolia Golf Resort The Magnolia Golf Resort offers prime properties right next to the magnificent Adeje golf course. Built by Spanish multinational company Acciona Inmobiliaria it not only has the advantage of all that splendid greenery, but it is also situated at just 300 metres from the sea. The two and three-bedroom apartments have been built with the ultimate in materials and finishings, and are spacious, open, light and elegant - with marble flooring throughout giving grace and style to all the rooms. You can choose from ground floor homes with a garden, or duplexes with a large terrace, all of which sit in beautiful grounds with a solarium, gym, sauna, putting green and Jacuzzi, as well as adults and children’s swimming pools. As always, we recommend that when looking for property you deal with an estate agent you can trust: preferably one that has a proven track record and good reputation. For the La Caleta area Second Home Tenerife would be the ideal place to start. They are well established and, as well as the resort mentioned above, they have a number of other desirable La Caleta properties on their books. Simply call: 0034 670 390 821 or see: www.secondhometenerife. com. Last, but not least, the whole of the Costa Adeje district is internationally renowned for its unique microclimate: the temperature rarely falls below 16 degrees centigrade and usually sits comfortably in the mid twenties. So if that appeals, and you are looking for modern amenities and stylish and comfortable living in an area which still retains a traditional village feel, then La Caleta may well be the place for you.

IC CLASSIFIEDS / PROPERTY

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013

General

Info

Property Property for rent

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

CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINE

The deadline for edition 695, which is published on 31st May, is 27th May at 5pm. No classiﬁeds will be taken after this date. Island Connections Online www.islandconnections.eu

Head OfficeTenerife: Calle Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6º- first floor. Pol. Industrial Las Chafiras 38620 - San Miguel de Abona. Tel. 922 750 609 Fax: 922 795 810 OFFICE HOURS: Mon-Frid 9am-5pm

Gran Canaria:

grancanaria@ic-news.com

Classifieds Info: For personal and professional help in placing your classified in Island Connections all you need to do is pop along to our new offices in Las Chafiras and speak to Karen. Not only is Island Connections here to ensure that your advertisement reaches its target market, we will also advise on sizing requirements for maximum exposure, with prices to suit your pocket.

Rates: Lineage classifieds: From 16 € Boxed Ads: Colour Module 47,25€ Long Term: *Ask for our special rates

 Los Gigantes. One bedroom penthouse apartment for long let. Fully equipped, large terrace, beautiful sea, clif fs and harbour views. Community pool. Quiet location. €550 / monthly. Tel: 922 861 332 / 609 227 562

Best Home Best Furniture Best Lifestyle

Why not best Insurance? Call us at TIBC: 922 730 210 or visit www.tibc-dhc.com

Beach front apartment in Los Cristianos

 Studios, 1 + 2 bed

apartments, villas etc. wanted for long let by well established management company. Clients waiting. See www.tfslonglets.com or phone Nadine on 922 715 162  I’m looking for an

apartment for long stay from June in the areas of Los Cristianos, Las Américas, Costa Adeje and Adeje. Rent up to €400 (all incl.), I’m employed. Tel. 676 378 618

 Single man, retired,

Wooden Chalet on Camp site (Guía de Isora) Double bedroom, fitted wardrobes, seperate shower, WC, hand basin, new gas boiler, kitchen diner, 4 gas rings. TV, DVD player, CD Stereo system, patio with sea view, table and chairs. Rent paid till March 2014. For Sale and furnished €25,000. UK Tel. 0034 (0) 1903 690309. UK Mob. 07973349111 Spain Tel. 922 136 778. Spain Mob. 646 586 318

Long term rental. Luxury furnished 2 bed. 1 bath. Quiet complex. €750 a month plus bills. Contact: Margarita 630 591 346

Property for sale

www.teneriffa-fincas.net

looking for affordable long-stay apartment in  Apartment Tabaiba  Elderly couple 78 and Gran Canaria or Tenerife. Alta for sale, only five mins 68 selling 2 super apartments Happy to take on house-sitting responsabilities, or other duties etc (From September). tel;00447904 126930 email. Dennis.Walsh7166@ gmail.com

Garage to Rent Double size, Very secure, Victoria Court 1 Los Cristianos, close to Sunday Market, tel 679 919 623

away from the German school, roughly 102ms, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom, kitchen, living room, utility room, garden big terrace. Spectacular views of the sea and mountain, big garage with 2 spaces, 2 closed store rooms, price 180.000 euros, mob. 686 798 367, email eoptenerife@gmail.com

 Los Crisitianos, central apartments, 1 and 2 bedrooms, furnished, 649 142 612  39.990 Euro. Sunny apartment for sale (Studio) in Playa Paraiso (TenerifeSouth), 40 m2, with balcony, spectacular sea views, pools, SAT-TV. Very near to the beach, supermarket, restaurants and bus-stop. Private sale. Tel. 922 30 15 75, e-mail: mesa3@ telefonica.nice

at half price, against life long tenancy. One in the north and one in the South, both directly by the sea, contact 922 362496 or email privat3001@ yahoo.de

Club Atlantis, San Eugenio Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 9.30am - 5pm Saturday / Sunday: Closed Tenerife Solicitors is a trading name of HATRICK & CO SOLICITORS, who are regulated by both the Solicitors Regulation Authority of England & Wales (www.sra.gov.uk) and the College of Abogados (Lawyers) in Tenerife (www.icatf.es). We also hold separate Professional Indemnity Insurance Policies for £2 Million GBP in England and €3 Million EU in Tenerife in the unlikely event of a professional claim against us.

VERY NICELY RENOVATED 2 BED 1 BATH APARTMENT ON “ACHACAY” CENTRAL LOS CRISTIANOS. PARTIAL SEA VIEW, BALCONY, LOWER FLOOR. GREAT LOCATION CLOSE TO BEACHES AND HARBOUR. REDUCED TO €125,000 ONLY! PLEASE RING: ALAN 667 513 689 OR: JULIE 670 800 036

Residencial

La Duquesa Playa Fañabé

3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, front and back garden, community pool. €455,000 Tel. 629 244 958

Bungalow Golf del Sur (Fairways-Village) 88m2 built and fully renovated. 190m2 garden with 9m2 Porch. 2 bedrooms. 2 bathrooms, one of them on suite. Open kitchen, living room and dinning room attached. Private pool and community pool. Community €110, includes a gardener who takes care of the garden entrance to the house Price: €205.000

For Sale - Rural house in Aldea Blanca, San Miguel, Tenerife

Land 400 m 2, built 230 m 2, three bed, two bath, barbecue and wood burning stove, pool, garage for two cars, patio with planters, kitchen with pantry, fireplace, wood fitted ceilings, fitted wardrobes. €398,000. Contact José Guadalupe Mobile 676 399 652 josejguadalupe@gmail.com

 Opportunity

Los Cristianos, beside the beach, one bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, fur nished, large balcony, sunny, sea views, garage. 90,000 euros, 922 752759 / 608425 426  First class penthouse, L o s C r i s t i a n o s, Playa Graciosa, dining room, complete electric kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reading room. 106m2 + 75m2 terrace, garage, storeroom, sun lounge, furnished, air conditioned, automatic shutters, 310,000 euros. Tel. 922 752 759 / 608 425 426

Opportunity in Playa de Las Américas

Apartment, 55m2, one bed, American kitchen, terrace. Excellent location, 2 minutes from the beach. Community pool, excellent investment opportunity.

Price: €85,000 Tel: 629 244 958

Wooden house for sale in Arafo (La Hidalga) Terrain 1520m, 2 floors, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (one with bath and one with shower), kitchen, living room, upper parquet floor with tiles, quiet location with fabulous sea-Mountain views. Good connection south motorway. Negotiable price. 180.000€

Tel. 922 514 156

SPANISH LAW

ENGLISH LAW

• Property Sale and Purchase / Conveyancing • Spanish Wills • Translation of Spanish Documents • Family Law and Divorce • Legal Disputes & Debts • Contracts • Business Law • Timeshare Issues

• Witnessing / Swearing documents • Family Law & Divorce • Landlord & Tenant • Disputes & Debt Recovery • Wills & Probate • Company Law • Business Start-ups

(MATTERS WITHIN TENERIFE / SPAIN)

We offer a variety of legal services to Englishspeaking visitors and Expats alike, including:

(MATTERS WITHIN ENGLAND & WALES)

Experience legal services the way you expect them. Call Tenerife Solicitors now on

922 71 78 45 for a no-obligation quotation or to discuss your needs. Alternatively, visit our website www.tenerifesolicitors.com or email us at info@tenerifesolicitors.com

IC classifieds / property

EDITION 695 :: 17/05/2013 - 30/05/2013 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Property Finance ::

hen buying a property overseas, using a specialist foreign exchange company can save you thousands. Overseas money transfers represent a very nice income stream for banks. But if you want to save a packet when you transfer money abroad, the best bet is to side step the high street lenders, opting instead for a specialist foreign exchange company. Buying a property in another country is likely to be the biggest single foreign exchange transaction you ever make. Even a small percentage saving on the pound can add up to thousands when you are purchasing your dream home abroad. Paul Collins, editor at BuyAssociation, believes it is vital that anyone buying property overseas uses a specialist currency provider to make sure they get the best rates. “High street banks won’t provide you with the best rates, so you need to go to a specialist,” he says. “It can make thousands upon thousands of pounds worth of difference in the price of a property. Even though it is possibly the least exciting bit of buying a property, it is hugely important.” Foreign currency exchange is a complex environment and one that is best left to the experts, according to the editor of the Overseas Property website. He adds: “It is a very specialised field and that is why it is best to use these specialists in very professional currency houses.” So how do forex companies offer such good deals? They purchase billions of pound’s worth of foreign exchange so they benefit from wholesale prices. They pass these savings on to you in the form of highly competitive commercial rates. Expertise counts for a lot and these firms specialise in a personalised service. For example, if you want to transfer your money with a specific

Whether you are buying or selling your dream home abroad, contact Currencies Direct for the best cash transfer deal

that you come to complete [the transaction].” However, just as many Brits are still looking for property in places like Spain, so too some are deciding to sell up and move back home. For sellers, forward contracts can also offer benefits. By locking in at a favourable exchange rate for a year, anyone selling their home can put it on the market safe in the knowledge that they will get the sterling amount they had banked on.

Case study

Beat the banks with a foreign exchange company

Currencies Direct rate and it is not the current one, forex dealers will watch the market on your behalf until the exchange rate is where you want it to be. They will give you a call to let you know the rate is the one you wanted and you can then decide to go ahead and make the transfer or not. Liz Rowlinson, editor at A Place in the Sun Magazine, thinks this is a service well worth using if you are looking to buy abroad. “When you buy a property abroad you should always use a currency broker to buy your currency. Forward buy it at a

certain favourable rate - you should get advice on that because you can save yourself lots of money in terms of financial planning,” she says. Once the rate is fixed, which you do by agreeing with the broker, you can then carry out what’s known as a spot transaction. Your sterling funds are transferred to the dealer, who then transfers this to the recipient in the foreign country where you are making the purchase. For large amounts, there is often no transfer fee, saving the buyer even more money. Another specialised product that makes a huge difference when buying or selling property overseas is something known as a forward contract. A forward contract means that you can lock in an exchange rate today which is valid for up to one year. For anyone buying a house worth hundreds of thousands of euros, this can make a big difference. It also provides peace of mind as you are protected against any fluctuations in the market.

For example, anyone buying in Spain will have seen the pound-euro exchange rate swing wildly over the last 12 months. In the last year, GBP/EUR has ranged from a high of 1.2879 last July to a low of 1.1340 this March. While the changes may appear quite small, for house buyers it quickly adds up. Paul Collins from BuyAssociation notes that currency fluctuations have a, “huge influence” on anyone buying property overseas, making a forward contract well worth considering. “It can have a huge impact in terms of the prices that people pay, which is why using specialist currency companies can be one of the most advantageous ways of investing overseas,” he explains. “As long as you know what you are investing in and when you will need that cash available, you can fix the exchange rate so that you know exactly how much it is going to cost you, regardless of the exchange rate fluctuations that might happen between the present time and the time

Mark Manley bought a holiday home in Estepona, Spain, to get away from the grey and wet UK weather. He researched his purchase on the internet and through magazines. “I also made visits to several countries and possible locations for purchase. I also had recommendations from friends and clients and finally I spoke to a recommended and reliable agent with a lot of experience,” he explained. Thanks to this thorough approach, Mark found a property easily. The only problem came just before completion. “I learned that asking a UK bank to transfer money immediately is akin to asking for a free flight to the moon,” he said. To solve this problem, he turned to a forex company, Currencies Direct. “The team are fabulous and they are willing to give sound guidance on what is likely to happen to the currency rate in the next few days/ weeks,” said Mark, who estimates he saved £12,000 by using a specialist foreign exchange company. His advice: “Be aware of how currency fluctuations can massively affect how much you pay on purchase. You can save or lose a lot of money by agreeing to a completion or transfer at the right/wrong time.”

For information and advice about transactions in the Canary Islands, contact:

Carol Schleisman

Business Development Executive - Islas Canarias, Currencies Direct Tel: +34 922 971 781, Mob: +34 687 906 607 carol.s@currenciesdirect.com www.currenciesdirect.com/ marbella

14 DAY GUIDE

17th - 30th May 2013 :: BBC1 / BBC2 / ITV1 / Channel4 / Channel5 / Skysports1 / Skysports2

Eurovision Song Contest

Case Histories

onnie Tyler flies the flag for the United Kingdom as the final of the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest gets underway in Malmo, Sweden, the only country to have held the contest in five consecutive decades.

BBC2 / TRAVEL /9:00pm

Australia With Simon Reeve

Bonnie aims to become the first UK winner since 1997 as she performs the anthemic song Believe in Me. Bonnie is one of 26 acts competing for the coveted title of Eurovision Song Contest winner 2013. Graham Norton is in the commentary hot seat in Malmo, bringing his unique take on all things Eurovision.

The British Soap Awards 2013 ITV1 / Entertainment / 19th May, 8:00pm

Entries from the five biggest soaps are eligible – Coronation Street, Doctors, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hol-

19th May

Jason Isaacs reprises his role as complex and compulsive private detective Jackson Brodie in crime drama Case Histories.

BBC1 / Music / 18th May, 8:00pm

t’s back and set to be bigger than ever as it looks back over another year of tears, trials, tribulations and tantrums from the nation’s biggest TV shows.

BBC1 / DRAMA / 8:30pm

lyoaks – and stars from all five will don their finest on the night for what promises to be one of the award calendar’s most glamorous occasions. Hosted by Phillip Schofield with awards being presented by some of the country’s most popular faces, there’s everything to play for in the soap world’s ‘Oscars’.

Following the success of his Indian Ocean series, Simon Reeve embarks on another epic adventure, this time travelling across Australia.

19th May

CHANNEL 4 / DOCUMENTARY / 9:00 pm

Skint

Brand new three-part observational documentary series Skint tells provocative and revealing stories from the inside out about how people survive without work.

20th May

FRIDAY

17/05/13

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Breakfast Fake Britain Homes Under the Hammer The Sheriffs are Coming Saints and Scroungers Bargain Hunt BBC News at One BBC London News Doctors Chris visits a mother and son struggling to deal with the aftermath of a tragic accident. Escape to the Country Perfection The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of Britain Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News The One Show A Question of Sport EastEnders Dexter’s world comes crashing down around him when he realises that his mum has betrayed him. Would I Lie to You? Rob Brydon is back in the host’s chair for the seventh series of the comedy panel show. Have I Got News for You Not Going Out When Lucy’s first love reappears on the scene and wants Lucy to star in a romantic play that he has written especially for her, Lee is forced to fight for her attention. BBC News at Ten BBC London News The Graham Norton Show The guests on Graham’s sofa include Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe. The Wright Way Gerald clashes with the Mayor in his fervour to author his own iconic hazard warning. Norbit A put-upon husband sees an opportunity to free himself from his tyrannical wife when he is reunited with his childhood sweetheart. Weatherview

Alan Carr: Chatty Man

CHANNEL 4 / Chat Show pm

Guests include Rod Stewart and Miles Kane.

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Homes Under the Hammer The Sheriffs are Coming Saints and Scroungers A to Z of TV Gardening Antiques Roadshow Question Time BBC News BBC World News The Daily Politics My Life in Books Anne Robinson invites former EastEnders baddie Larry Lamb and stand-up comedian Sarah Millican to talk about the books that have had an impact on their lives. The Weakest Link Mastermind The Great British Bake Off Restoration Roadshow Planet Earth Flog It! Eggheads The Chef’s Protege Antiques Road Trip Nature’s Microworlds In the spectacular Yellowstone where wolves, bears, coyotes, bison and elk roam vast grasslands, wetlands and forests, Steve looks for the answer to a puzzle. Gardeners’ World Gardening magazine. Monty Don tackles seasonal jobs at Longmeadow and plants clematis in his cottage. Leopards: 21st Century Cats What is it like living with these animals on your doorstep? QI Quiz show in which Stephen Fry asks for ‘quite interesting’ answers, this time about journalism. Newsnight Later... with Jools Holland Jools is joined by Californian rock force Queens of the Stone Age. Frozen River Deserted by her husband, with Christmas coming and two sons to provide for, Ray Eddy is drawn to a smuggling scheme.

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Daybreak Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning ITV News This Morning Loose Women ITV News and Weather May the Best House Win The show where homeowners open up their properties is in the South West Midlands where celebrity chef Alan Coxon has a converted malthouse full of African artefacts. Dickinson’s Real Deal David Dickinson and the team head to Leighton Buzzard. Tipping Point The Chase ITV News London ITV News and Weather Emmerdale Alicia is in for a surprise when she decides to speak her true feelings. Coronation Street Roy tries to discover more about his father. Gloria comes to the rescue. The Martin Lewis Money Show Martin Lewis and Saira Khan meet viewers who have reclaimed thousands of pounds after being missold payment protection insurance, and explain how to reclaim PPI for free. Coronation Street An emotionally drained Roy blames Hayley. Gary frets that Tommy could ruin everything. Life of Crime It is now 1997 and Denise Woods is a successful DI in the era of cool Britannia and Blair’s babes. ITV News at Ten and Weather Rumour Has It... Perky romantic comedy following a woman’s quest to discover if there is any truth to the local legend that her parents inspired the story behind movie classic The Graduate. Jackpot247 Join the presenters live and play roulette on your telly.

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Milkshake The Wright Stuff Motor Morphers 5 News Lunchtime The Removal Men Home and Away Neighbours Toadie is hurt by Steph’s accusation that he was responsible for her prison sentence. CSI: NY Blue Smoke Romantic thriller in which a young arson investigator realises that a pyromaniac is targetting all things she holds dear, and that the culprit may have a link to her past. 5 News at 5 Neighbours Home and Away John and Gina are delighted at the prospect of finalising their adoption of Jett, but disaster strikes. 5 News Cricket on 5 Highlights of the second day’s play as England take on New Zealand in the First Test at Lord’s. Eddie Stobart: Trucks and Trailers In Scotland, new driver Paul ferries tender plants through the ice and snow. The Mentalist Just as Jane narrows down the list of people who could be Red John to seven suspects, the serial killer strikes again. CSI: Miami New DNA testing reveals that a man who had been convicted of a brutal rape six years ago is in fact innocent. CSI: Miami The CSIs get on the case and, with a club full of possible suspects and a murder weapon wiped clean. True Crimes: The First 72 Hours Award-winning partdramatised true crime mysteries. Based on real cases from across Canada and the USA. Super Casino Live interactive gaming featuring roulette, blackjack and autowheel

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Good Morning Sports Fans Ringside The boxing show with all the latest news and views from inside the ring. Barclays Premier League World A round-up of all the latest headlines from the Barclays Premier League. Cricket Day two of the first test between England and New Zealand from Lord’s. The Fantasy Football Club Football Real Madrid face crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid. The Fantasy Football Club John Fendley, Paul Merson and special guests of sport and showbiz take a light-hearted look at fantasy football and the weekend’s Barclays Premier League matches. UEFA Champions League

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Aerobics: Oz Style Thrillseekers: Dirt The Rugby Club European Tour Golf Super League Superstars IAAF Athletix Magazine Ringside European Tour Golf Day two. Ringside Heineken Cup Final 2011 Leinster meet Northampton. UEFA Champions League Barclays Premier League NBA Action All the latest news. Amlin Challenge Cup Final Stade Francais take on Leinster. Cricket Day two of the first test between England and New Zealand from Lord’s. Cricket Lions Legends A look at Mervyn Davies’ career with the British and Irish Lions. Heineken Cup Final 2011

Film 4 - Today’s highlights Run, Fat Boy, Run

9:00pm

David Schwimmer’s debut directorial feature stars Simon Pegg as Dennis Doyle, seen in the ﬁlm’s opening sequence abandoning a very pregnant Libby Odell at the altar. Five years later, he’s an overweight security guard with limited access rights to their son Jake, but still holds a torch for her.

Man on Fire

10:55pm

Denzel Washington stars in director Tony Scott’s gorily violent revenge thriller. Alcoholic former CIA man John Creasy is trying to escape his less than commendable past by relocating to Mexico City, where he has secured a job as bodyguard to the 10-year-old daughter of a rich businessman.

Live at the Apollo

BBC1 / Comedy pm

11:30

The pub landlord Al Murray hosts, before introducing special guests Chris Addison and pun-meister Tim Vine.

one 6:00 10:00 11:30

12:00 12:10 12:15

1:00

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4:35 5:20

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Breakfast Saturday Kitchen Live Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers Stale bread, brown bananas and hard cheese are all transformed to make meals that are truly delicious. BBC News BBC London News Football Focus Dan Walker and guests look ahead to the final weekend of the Premier League season and reflect upon the events of the 2012-13 campaign. MotoGP Matt Roberts presents live coverage of qualifying for the fourth round of the MotoGP Championship. Bargain Hunt Herbie: Fully Loaded The small car with the big personality is retrieved from a scrapyard by Ray Peyton Sr, a luckless racing driver. Escape to the Country Celebrity Mastermind The celebrities include former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan and poet Simon Armitage. Pointless BBC News BBC London News Doctor Who The Doctor has a secret he will take to his grave. And it is discovered. The National Lottery Draws Eurovision Song Contest 2013 Bonnie Tyler flies the flag for the United Kingdom as the final of the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest gets underway in Malmo, Sweden. BBC News Live at the Apollo The pub landlord Al Murray hosts, before introducing special guests Chris Addison and pun-meister Tim Vine. Life When a smart-talking con artist and a serious wouldbe bank teller are thrown together to commit a crime, they are wrongly accused of murder.

SATURDAY

18/05/13 1

TWO 6:00 6:40

8:20

10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00

2:30 2:50 3:50 4:50

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9:30 10:15

New 11:55

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This is BBC Two Preview of upcoming programmes from BBC Two. Till the End of Time Post-war drama following the fortunes of a trio of returning veterans as they attempt to reconcile their dreams with the reality of civilian life. Flying Leathernecks Wartime drama set high above Guadalcanal in 1942. While the US Marine Corps fighter pilots defy the Japanese in spectacular air battles, on the ground their tough, unyielding Squadron Commander is deeply resented by his men. A History of Scotland Map Man Just a Minute The Chef’s Protege Five episodes following three chefs who are going back to catering college to find a student to take under their wing. A to Z of TV Gardening Coast Auction Hero The Eagle Has Landed All-action World War II adventure about a crack squad of Nazi paratroopers sent to England to kidnap Winston Churchill and transport him to Germany. Flog It! Dad’s Army The Culture Show Scott Fitzgerald. Novelist Jay McInerney explores the life and writing of F Scott Fitzgerald, whose masterwork ‘The Great Gatsby’ has just been filmed for the fifth time. QI XL Stephen Fry asks some intelligent questions. West is West Culture-clash comedy drama set in 1976, the sequel to hit play and film ‘East Is East’. The Walker Drama about an affable male escort who becomes embroiled in a murder plot. This is BBC Two

8:25 8:30 9:25 10:15

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ITV News Dinner Date The Jeremy Kyle Show USA My Tasty Travels with Lynda Bellingham Today, Lynda travels through Devon’s English Riviera to visit a replica of Drake’s Golden Hind Saturday Farm ITV News and Weather Murder, She Wrote River Monsters All Star Family Fortunes In this edition, England rugby legend Will Greenwood and family take on pop star Duncan James and clan. The Chase Quiz show hosted by Bradley Walsh. The Great St Trinian’s Train Robbery Fourth cinema outing for the pupils of cartoonist Ronald Searle’s infamous girls’ school. ITV News London ITV News and Weather You’ve Been Framed! Top 100 Holidays Harry Hill brings sunshine into your living room with his top 100 holiday videos. Britain’s Got Talent Ant and Dec host Britain’s biggest talent competition. The Cube Phillip Schofield presents another tension-filled episode of the game show. The Jonathan Ross Show Jonathan welcomes former Bond girl Gemma Arterton, the hugely popular comedian Lee Evans and actors Philip Glenister, Marc Warren and Max Beesley. ITV News and Weather Mickey Blue Eyes Comedy. English auctioneer Michael Felgate is living in New York when he meets beautiful Gina Vitale. Jackpot247 Join the presenters live and play roulette on your telly.

6:10 6:35 7:00 7:25

7:55 8:55 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30

1:35

4:10 6:50 7:15

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The Hoobs VW Racing Cup Mobil 1 The Grid FIM Superbike World Championship Highlights from Round 4 of the Superbike World Championship from the Autodromo Nazionale at Monza in Italy The Morning Line Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier The Big Bang Theory The Simpsons Heston’s Fantastical Food Culinary alchemist Heston Blumenthal brings back the wonder and excitement of childhood food memories and flavours on a monumental scale, awakening the kid in every viewer. Channel 4 Racing Clare Balding is at Newbury to bring you all the action on a top day’s racing which features the Lockinge Stakes (3.50) - one of Europe’s leading Mile races for older horses. Come Dine with Me Five episodes. Channel 4 News Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer In Tim Story’s sequel to the foursome’s first adventure, the superheroes are suffering from very human problems. Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps Michael Douglas, Shia LaBeouf and Carey Mulligan star in Oliver Stone’s sequel to his 1987 blockbuster drama. Derren Brown In The Assassin, Derren investigates hypnosis and asks if someone could be hypnotised into killing a celebrity. Is this really possible? Crash Set in Los Angeles over two days, Crash is a picaresque, episodic film with a cast of disparate characters whose lives coincide for one reason or another.

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