NT Magazine 234

Maite Cazorla - Metaverse and jobs - Florence - The taste of the foothills From Haría to Teguise - La Maceta natural pools - Osteoporosis - Gofio

URKIOLA NATURE PARK

STAFF

CONTENT COORDINATOR

Beneharo Mesa · redaccion@barabaracomunicacion.com

TRANSLATION

Karl McLauglin

EDITING Lavadora de textos

CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE

Beneharo Mesa, Enrique Areilza, Julia Laich, A. Hernández, Lara Villanueva, Aarón Rodríguez González, Raquel Álvarez, Cristina Torres Luzón, Francisco Belín, Patronato de Turismo de A Coruña.

CREATIVE DIRECTION AND LAYOUT great · greatttt.com · estudio@greatttt.com

COVER PHOTO

Julia Laich

PHOTOGRAPHS

Julia Laich, Beneharo Mesa, Rocío Eslava, José Chiyah, Pixabay, Adobe Stock, Patronato de Turismo de A Coruña.

ILLUSTRATIONS

Capi Cabrera, Ilustre Mario.

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BINTER Rodolfo Núñez – President Alfredo Morales – Vicepresident Noelia Curbelo – Institutional Relations and Communication

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A RECORD SCHEDULE THIS WINTER

Binter’s primary aim has always been to connect the Canary Islands not just with each other but with parts further afield also. With that aim in mind, our winter flights schedule, which operates from November to March, comprises more than 175 flights every week on our 35 routes to destinations outside the Canaries, with a total of over 430,000 seats on offer. The figure represents a 70 % increase compared to last winter and is a record for the airline.

We have retained our routes to Florence, Valladolid, Jerez de la Frontera, Guelmim, Sal and Banjul, while also making improvements to the operating days and times of our Venice, Murcia, A Coruña, San Sebastián and Pamplona flights in order to facilitate short breaks and week-end trips. This means that you now have no excuse not to switch off and recharge your batteries outside our islands.

While underlining our efforts to connect the Canaries to outside parts, we should not forget our continued commitment to our inter-island connections, which is why we make a point of contributing to initiatives that enhance and promote connectivity in the archipelago. By way of example, Binter is the exclusive carrier for the new Bonoventura scheme launched by Fuerteventura’s governing council (Cabildo).

We believe that it is important also to promote our airline so that we are the choice for flights to the Canaries. To that end, in September we took part in the Top Resa trade fair in Paris, the leading event for travel industry professionals in France. We had our own stand at the fair and met with the media and tourism sector representatives to set out our Lille and Toulouse flights and highlight the benefits enjoyed by passengers who choose to fly with us, such as our inflight service which includes a complimentary gourmet snack on flights to the Spanish mainland and international flights.

In closing, I would like to remind you that the Binter NightRun takes place in Gran Canaria on 22 October. The race is now a regular and indeed key part of the sporting calendar and we are exporting it more and more to other destinations we fly to in Spain. If you are planning to take part, we wish you the very best of luck; if not, we would encourage you to turn out to watch the race and enjoy the atmosphere it generates.

Many thanks for choosing us and HAVE A GOOD FLIGHT!

Juan A. Ramsden General Coordinator

SUMMARY

By Beneharo Mesa Illustrated by Capi Cabrera

«THE KEY IS TO KEEP IMPROVING, DEVELOPING AND GAINING MORE EXPERIENCE TO REACH THE TOP

Maite Cazorla, who hails from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, started playing basketball in her school team before joining the CB Islas Canarias academy system. She moved to Barcelona from the Canaries at the age of 14 to continue her development in the youth sides of the Segle XXI club. She made her debut in the WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) in June 2019. Standing 1.78 metres tall, the pointguard currently plays in Spain’s Liga Endesa for Perfumerías Avenida, with whom she won the Queen’s Cup in 2020.

How did you get into basketball? Did you have a back-up plan in case it did not work out?

Drawing on their own experiences and what they had done, those around me have always supported me in anything I decided I wanted to do. I played basketball very much as a hobby at the beginning, but also in recent years; I loved it. I wasn’t planning to take it up as a career but then came the decision to leave home at the age of fourteen and, after that, when I went to the United

States, I realised full-time basketball was for me. My family knew that I loved the sport and wanted to continue. They also supported me in ensuring I had an education because, although this is a great sport in which you can spend many years, you always need a back-up plan. All the more so as a woman.

How has pre-season training gone?

It has gone well; we helped the new players adapt to the team’s philosophy and working ways. The aim of pre-sea

son is to get back in shape and, for the moment, things are going well. I’m very happy and can’t wait to get playing. Once we do that, hopefully the team will be at its best and win trophies. All of us in sport want to win everything or at least try, even if it can be very difficult at times. The key is to keep improving, developing and gaining more experience to reach the top and give it your all.

What facets of your play do you think you have improved in recent years and which ones would you like to continue to improve?

Erm… [laughs]. Well…, I think I have improved my playing style in that I am more aggressive and this helps the team not just in terms of me scoring but also finding my team mates. I have also improved the mental side also. This is very important in any sport and I am working on it further, particularly allowing myself to make mistakes. You make loads of mistakes in basketball and it is quite nor mal to do so. Other facets I think I need to improve include my decision-making, even though I read the game well … Lots to improve [laughs].

ment; everyone supports them and the facilities and infrastructure are great… They are way ahead of us on that level. Hopefully we can learn from it; we have to raise the visibility of sport in Spain.

In January you decided to stay in Spain rather than go back to the United States. What were the reasons?

Well …, the women’s game is not the same as the men’s: in the States women play in the summer, from May to October approximately. When the summer ends, the women players tend to head to Europe to play. You end up playing in two different leagues but across the whole year. It is non-stop. I had been playing non-stop for a long time, particularly the summer of last year – with Spain, the Olympics, the European Championships etc. It was endless and I did not have a break. Given that the Spanish league followed straight on from this, I decided I needed a rest. Although regrettably Spain did not qualify for the World Championships, I felt nonetheless that I really needed time off. Summer this year has been great as I managed to switch off, rest and travel.

Who do you look up to in sport?

You have played in Spain and the United States. How is it different there?

The physical side is very different there; here we work more on the tactical side. That as far as the basketball is concerned. My time at university over there showed me that all sports, both men’s and women’s, get equal treat-

Outside basketball, Rafa Nadal. Not just as an athlete but for everything he conveys off the court, all the things he does and how he is an inspiration for others. Within basketball, I have always admired Laia Palau and Silvia Domínguez; I have played with both for Spain and with Silvia at club level. I admire them not just for what they have achieved in the sport but because they look out for others and are true leaders. That is very important to me.

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«I have also improved the mental side a lot. This is something very important in any sport» -

Text by Enrique Areilza* Illustrated by Ilustre Mario

METAVERSE AND JOBS

The take-off speed and final destination of the metaverse are both uncertain. Like many large-scale innovations, it is likely to take longer to get here and its ultimate model may be much more disruptive than initially anticipated. For the moment, however, this new universe is already generating labour market demand.

For those who do not know what we are talking about, a metaverse is an environment in cyberspace in which people can interact socially and economically through avatars. It is a reflection of the real world but without the latter’s physical constraints.

The metaverse, or rather metaverses, will change the way many of us work, play and socialise. Those with an interest

in its economic benefits predict a major revolution in the near future. An example of this are the real estate transactions that are already taking place in this virtual world. Visionaries, speculators and those who are afraid of missing the boat first time. I remember the words of Emilio Botín following the first dotcom crash, when he boasted of his low exposure: «More than vanguardists, we like to be early followers », said Botín back then.

It seems that the metaverse will be slower and less universal than promised by Zuckerberg, who has had to rectify his forecasts as a result of market and shareholder pressure. Now the owner of Meta points to a future that is ten to fifteen years away. Indeed, he has halted the recruitment of the 10,000 professionals he had envisaged for the devel opment of his metaverse. Moreover, a check of his Meta Careers jobs site in September shows that less than 7 % of the positions advertised featured the term metaverse.

Many other firms have rushed to register digital versions of their physical products so as not to miss out. Particularly well-known cases include Nike, Disney, Victoria’s Secret and Gucci. The metaverse may prove crucial to the future of The Walt Disney Company although, of 3068 jobs advertised by it, only eight include the magical word metaverse. -

assistants, in which interest has fallen sharply after a very strong start.

Other analysts base their forecasts on precursors, in particular Second Life, which many will remember. At its height, Second Life attracted over a million users but then nearly fell into oblivion. It is now back, twenty years later: will this be its time?

Getting back to the subject of jobs, metaverse professions are similar to those in other environments, particularly the world of videogames, virtual reality (VR), blockchain, 3D design, sales and marketing.

According to InfoJobs, the sectors that will see greatest demand in the future are «IT engineers, data professionals, electronics, telecommunications, blockchain and virtual reality or augmented reality, among others. Also in demand will be product and multimedia designers, 3D graphic and visual designers, along with videogame and UX/UI designers».

In terms of training, the main demand will be in engineering (IT, telecommuni cations, multimedia and electronics) and also in cybersecurity and virtual and augmented reality design and development.

Closer to home, the situation is very much the same: not yet. A search on InfoJobs throws up just three metaverse-related positions in Spain, 25 if we search on Google. For the moment there is little work in or directly related to the metaverse.

The only generally agreed opinion seems to be that there is uncertainty as to when the metaverse will arrive and how big it will be. There are even some who think it is all pure bluff and they use as past examples the fiasco of virtual

Jobs expected to be in demand in the metaverse include environment de signer, wardrobe designer, experience creator, among many others.

Lastly, one wonders whether pushing on with training for this new, future and uncertain world of employment is advisable. Bearing in mind current capabilities and, above all, the level of inter est, it is a very attractive option. If that is your case, buy yourself some Oculus and begin the (other) journey.

Metaverse professions are similar to those in other environments, particularly the world of videogames -

RAISING SDG AWARENESS AMONG CANARIAN COMPANIES

Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Chamber of Commerce has launched a new project aimed at raising awareness among businesses of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Canaries’ Agenda 2030.

The Mentoring and Support Programme for New Businesses is funded by the Canarian Government’s Directorate General for Economic Promotion and the European Regional Develop ment Fund.

Further information concerning tailored advice on a range of issues such as implementing equality plans in com panies, analysis of spending on electricity, and the rights of self-employed workers can be obtained on the Chamber’s website or by calling 922 100 400.

JAVIER INFANTE & NORTH SEA STRING QUARTET COME TO TIJARAFE

Tijarafe will experience an electrifying string concert on 23 October in the shape of Electric Amazigh, the new album by Dutch jazz group the North Sea String Quartet and Gran Canaria guitarist-songwriter Javier Infante.

A collaboration in which the sounds of acoustic and electric guitars come together in a timeless look back at the indigenous past of the Canaries and its surviving traces today.

The album is in the form of a nine-piece suite in which Infante’s electric guitar is the main narrator of a varied and cine matographic journey on which the jazz quartet is an indispensable travelling companion.

CANARIAN STUDENTS REWARDED BY CAJASIETE FOR THEIR HARD WORK YET ANOTHER YEAR

Cajasiete opened registration on 1 September for its «ingreso Sobresalien te» (Excellence Bonus) initiative which, in its thirteen previous years, has already seen more than 47,000 students from the Canaries rewarded by the bank for achieving top marks at school and university.

Through the reward campaign, Cajasiete once again demonstrates its com mitment to education and sustainable development in the islands, helping build a future for all.

Registration is open until 31 October and the participation rules can be found at www.ingresosobresaliente.com.

DENTAZUL: A GROUP COMMITTED TO HEALTH-CARE TRAINING

The Dentazul Group Vocational Training Centre is a private centre approved by the Canarian Ministry of Education, Universities, Culture and Sport. We offer higher-level programmes in Dental Hy giene, Dental Prosthesis and Prosthetic Audiology, courses which facilitate access to university studies, preferably in a health discipline. We also offer approved specialist courses, including dental radiodiagnosis equipment operator.

With over two decades of experience in course delivery, our centre prides itself not just on training skilled professionals but also on being awarded the 2019 Inter national Business Innovation Prize, which we received at the Museum of Technology in Berlin, and the SME Socially Re sponsible Business Award in 2000.

Spain imported 33.8 million litres of wine in the first half of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021, at a cost of 141.1 million euros. The imports represented an increase of 58.8 % in terms of volume and 47.8 % more in terms of value, according to sector sources. The information is reported by Spain’s Wine Market Observatory (OEMV), which notes that the average price of wine purchased was 4.17 euros a litre, 7.5 % more than the first half of 2021.

Italy was the leading supplier of wine to Spain in terms of volume, with 18.4 million litres (-4 %), although France headed the table in terms of value, at 77 million euros (+59 %). French and Italian wines together accounted for 70 % of the value and 43 %

of the volume of all the wine imported by Spain in the first half of the year.

In absolute terms, Spanish purchases of wine increased by 10.9 million litres and by 52.3 million euros during the peri od, with the average price increasing by 29 cents per litre.

In terms of wine types, the increase in value is accounted for by sparkling wines, on which Spain spent 24.3 mil lion euros more; wines with Protected Designations of Origin (PDO), on which spending rose by 10.2 million; and bulk non-DO wines (over 9.3 million). This last category also accounted for the biggest increase in volume (+7.5 million litres), according to Agrodiario.

SPAIN’S WINE IMPORTS NEARLY DOUBLE IN FIRST HALF OF 2022 COMPARED TO SAME PERIOD IN 2021

TOURISM IN SPAIN RECOVERS TO 90% OF PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS

Tourism in Spain is close to reaching the levels recorded prior to the pandemic thanks to a strong increase in domes tic tourism, according to a report by ING. Domestic tourism has made up for the shortfall in international visitors, which in July was still 10 % below 2019 levels. Domestic tourism is now higher than the pre-pandemic levels.

The number of domestic tourists was already higher than pre-pandemic levels in April 2022, whereas the number of foreign visitors was still 3% down in July. The strong recovery of domestic tourism is making up for the lower figures for international visitors. Despite the economic uncertainty and geopolitical situation, an estimated 9.1 million for-

eign tourists visited Spain, almost 92% of the pre-pandemic figure, according to the report.

The United Kingdom accounted for the largest category of foreign visitors to Spain (21 % of the total), with France the second most important country of origin (16 %). The Canary Islands recorded the same number of foreign tourists as in July 2019.

The Balearics received almost the same numbers as before the pandem ic, with a recovery of 97 % compared to July 2019. The difference between the current and pre-pandemic levels of foreign tourists has been falling rapidly since the beginning of the year.

By Julia Laich

WALKS FOR ALL THE FAMILY IN URKIOLA NATURE PARK

Mountains, hillsides, valleys and ravines. Little churches, a shrine and various mountain refuges. Diverse animal and plant life. All this can be found in Urkiola, one of the most beautiful Nature Parks in the Basque Country, situated between the provinces of Álava and Vizcaya. The Park is a favourite with local walkers and the perfect place for a family day out.

The Urkiola Nature Park is a big draw for people of all ages, whether locals or tourists, who are keen to discover its charms or practise sport. Occupying an area of nearly six thousand hectares, this protected natural space straddles the south of Vizcaya and the north of Álava, sepa rating the districts of Duranguesado and Arratia in the former and the Aramaio valley in the latter.

Its limestone mountains, hillsides, green valleys and rocky ravines are part of the Aramotz-Eskubaratz mountain range, the Duranguesado hills and Aragio mountains.

Urkiola

Its most important peaks include Mount Anboto (1331 metres), an important place in Basque culture for its mythological associations –if you are interested in these, it is worth visiting Mari’s Cave on Anboto’s east face.

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A short walk up the steps brings you to this building which, by way of curious detail, is the geographical centre of the Basque Country

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The Park is accessed easily from both Vitoria and Durango. Driving is convenient as there is ample car parking and it can also be reached by taking the bus that serves the Vitoria to Durango route. For these and other reasons, Urkiola is ideal for a day out walking with the family. Its diverse landscapes and relief mean you can choose between routes of varying degrees of difficulty to admire the animal and plant life and take in the lovely views.

Shrine of Urkiola and surrounding area

If you arrive at the Park along the BI623 road, you can leave your car close to the Shrine of Urkiola. A short walk up the steps brings you to this building which, by way of curious detail, is the geogra phical centre of the Basque Country. It is thought to have been built in the 8th-9th century –it is not known for certain as the precise date is not recorded– and was last restored in the 20th century. Its interior structure differs to that of other places of worship in that the altar is not situated facing the entrance but rather with its back to it. There is also a colourful mural comprising more than 850,000 tiny stones depicting different aspects of Vizcaya life: the sea, countryside and industry. In the vicinity of the Shrine, you can follow an easy walk through the beech forest, whe

re you will find the old but now restored Nevera de Urkiola (a giant well), the Tres Cruces viewpoint and the small churches of Santo Cristo and Santutxo.

Easy walks through the Park

Leaving the Shrine behind, we head uphill and come to the starting point for a number of walking trails. Some of these, such as the climb up to Mt Anboto, are quite challenging and may not be suitable for all walkers, although there are also easier ones such as the path to Urkiolagirre, from where you can see the various hills and the town of Durango. Although it is quite steep it is worth doing slowly to take in the views along the way, as well as to enjoy the sight of grazing herds if you are doing the walk with children. From Urkiolagirre you can continue downhill until you reach the Pol-Pol fountain, well-known for its iron-rich waters.

From this point you can start the return journey, skirting around the mountain on its left side (as you look at the shrine). The route is not steep and is well signposted as it goes through woodland. However, if you prefer to carry on walking from the fountain, one option is to head right towards the small church of Santa Bárbara and the Larrano mountain refuge. From here there are views of Axpe –a small village well worth a visit– and of Urkiola Nature Park from another perspective.

VITORIA

From 12,000 points one-way or earn up to 1,200 points one-way.

For terms and conditions, see bintermas.com Ask our cabin crew for a leaflet or register with bintermas.com and start earning on your Binter flights and with more than 30 programme partners.

HOW TO GET THERE

Binter operates direct weekly flights to Vitoria from Gran Canaria on Saturdays, with connections available from all other Canary Islands. The flight takes 2 hours and 50 minutes.

WHERE TO STAY:

Silken Ciudad de Vitoria: this hotel’s location could not be better.

It is right in the centre, a few minutes’ walk from the old part. It is therefore ideal for visiting the capital of Álava and discovering the city’s most important spots.

Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada: situated just forty minutes from the airport, this Parador (heritage hotel) occupies a 12th-century hospital which was built originally by Santo Domingo next to the cathedral to tend to pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.

WHAT TO EAT:

Thanks to its proximity to the Bay of Biscay, Vitoria boasts excellent seafood and fish. Along with produce from the land, these are ever-presents in the city’s dishes. Foodies will find the pincho snacks a feast for the senses and the many bars, steakhouses and serve up delicious food of the highest standard.

MUST SEES

Medieval Wall: Vitoria’s Old Part is situated on a hilltop. The wall surrounding this medieval centre was built in the second half of the 11th century. This strategic hilltop position allowed old Vitoria to serve as a defensive fortress protecting the kingdoms of Castile and Navarre in the 11th and 12 th centuries.

New Cathedral: construction of the Inmaculada María Cathedral began in 1907. Although the ceremonial laying of the first stone was a major celebration in which even the King took part, the main façade was never finished. However, the cathedral is still worth a visit. Its imposing proportions and stained-glass windows are very impressive.

Fiestas de la Virgen Blanca: Vitoria celebrates its fiestas in honour of the Virgen Blanca (White Virgin) every year between 4-9 August. The central character of the festivities is Celedón, who abseils from the top of the tower of the church of St Michael down to the massive crowds in the square bearing the name of the virgin.

Casa del Cordón: commissioned in the 15th century by Pedro Sánchez de Bilbao, a converted Jew, this lovely gothic building was built around the ruins of the 13th-century Gaona Tower which can still be seen in its interior.

More information on www.revistabinter.com and www.canariasviaja.com

Text by A. Hernández

MONTERIGGIONI AND SAN GIMIGNANO: A TRIP TO MEDIEVAL TUSCANY

Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions to visit if you are touring Italy. In addition to the cathedral of Santa María del Fiore and the Palazzo Vecchio, to mention just a few of the landmark buildings in the bustling city of Florence –also recommended for a visit–, there are a host of places that carry visitors back centuries in time to medieval days when walled fortresses were not so much for visual pleasure as a key asset in battle. On the short trip proposed below we describe two excellent examples of this: Monteriggioni and San Gimignano, both situated approximately sixty kilometres from Florence.

For this car journey of around one hour, you are advised to take minor roads and dual carriageways rather than the motorways, not just to avoid paying tolls to arrive at our destination in roughly the same amount of time and following the same route but because the roads offer the best views of the Tuscan landscapes. Pride of place among these goes to the seemingly endless swathes of vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, and the bungalow-type houses that appear along the route. Even on the most secluded and barely passable road, you will frequently see signs advertising wine tourism and inviting wine lovers to stop by and try the region’s different varieties.

Monteriggioni

With a population of around 8000 and occupying just under 100 km2, Monteriggioni is a medieval walled town that sits on a hill, with houses and fortifications that have changed little even though it was once a highly strategic location and of great military importance during Florence’s attempts at expansion. These fea tures have made Monteriggioni a prime example of the conservation of medieval heritage that attracts visitors from the world over.

To access the old town, you can park in the private car park and walk through the main gate to get to the Piazza Roma, which boasts an impressive church whose interior can be visited free of charge. Also of interest is the old well in the centre of the square, which is lined with places to eat. There is something to satisfy all tastes, with meats and pasta dishes highly recommended.

From here you can wander around the town without any set plan as Monteriggioni is a great place to get lost in, in the positive sense of the term; the

above-mentioned Piazza Roma is visible from all parts, so it is easy to get your bearings as the two access gates are connected roughly in a straight line by the main street that crosses the centre of Monteriggioni.

In addition to going back in time as you wander through the alleys, you can also visit the small museum to find out about the history of the town and take in the panoramic views from the walls.

San Gimignano

We follow the route taken by Catholic pilgrims of bygone days when they set out on their journey to Rome along the vía Francigena and stop off in another iconic location in Tuscany: San Gimig nano. This too is a walled town and from afar can be distinguished easily from other towns due to its large towers. In the past it boasted a total of 72 towers, fifteen of which survive today, including some that can be visited to admire the spectacular views.

On accessing the town through the Porta San Giovanni, you are immediately struck by the impressive stone buildings and towers. Leading off from the square are several big streets lined on both sides with houses and shops, some of which have cellars that are worth visiting to see their famous ceramics, even if you do not buy any.

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Monteriggioni is somewhere to get lost in, in the positive sense of the term; the Piazza Roma is visible from all parts, so it is easy to get your bearings -

San Gimignano is home also to what is reputedly one of the best ice cream shops in the world: the Gelateria Dondoli. Situated on the Piazza Della Cisterna, it has received many awards for its delicious ice creams, which should definitely be tried on a visit.

Although the city attracts lots of tourists who throng its streets and four squares, you only need to walk a short distance from the main areas to find yourself wandering alone through the small alleys and enjoying a silence and calm that would have seemed impossi ble initially.

If you head far enough out, you can visit free viewing points on some of the walls, from where San Gimignano and its towers look very different

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FLORENCE

From 18,000 points one-way or earn up to 1,800 points one-way.

For terms and conditions, see bintermas.com Ask our cabin crew for a leaflet or register with bintermas.com and start earning on your Binter flights and with more than 30 programme partners.

FLORENCE

The capital of Tuscany exudes beauty. Florence is a veritable outdoor museum, full of masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture. A city to enjoy on a memorable cultural break.

HOW TO GET THERE Binter flies direct to Florence from the Canary Islands. The weekly flight on Saturdays from Gran Canaria takes four hours and twenty-five minutes.

WHERE TO STAY

c-hotels Ambasciatori 4*: In the historic centre of Florence, ten minutes from the cathedral.

NH Collection Porta Rossa 5*: A few minutes from the Ponte Vecchio and very close to the luxury shopping district.

WHAT TO EAT

Florence’s gastronomy is a blend of typical Italian and traditional Tuscan cuisine. Meat plays a prominent part (hare, ox, wild boar …) as does offal (tripe, chitterlings, liver…), although you can also find vegetarian dishes such as pappa al pomodoro or ribollita. Highly popular dishes include trippa a la fiorentina, lampredotto, bistecca a la fiorentina, crostini di fegatini and pasta dishes such as pappardelle alla lepre, which is one of Tuscany’s most common and made with Bolognese sauce and hare meat, or ravioli di cinghiale, filled with wild boar meat.

Those with a sweet tooth will love the cantuccini, a kind of almond biscuit; castagnaccio, a chestnut, pine nuts and grape cake; or schiacciata alla fiorentina, typical sweets served during Carnival and Easter.

ABSOLUTE MUSTS

Admire the stunning Brunelleschi dome in Santa Maria di Fiore. Climb to the top of the Campanile di Giotto bell tower. Gaze up at the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. Stroll among the gold and silver stalls on the Puente Vecchio. Delight in the Renaissance masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery Enjoy one of the most famous sculptures in the history of art: Michelangelo’s David in the Academia Gallery. Soak up the smells and tastes of the gastronomy in the central market.

More information on www.revistabinter.com and www.canariasviaja.com

Text by Lara Villanueva Photos by Rocío Eslava

THE TASTE OF THE FOOTHILLS: COUNTRYSIDE, STOVES AND CHATTING OVER WINE

It all began in the kitchens of the village homes. Icod de los Vinos - a land of livestock farmers, wine producers, crop farmers and, of course, fishermen - has offered up this flagship dish to the world for decades. Current Icod folk recall it from the days of their grandparents, who probably also remember it from the times of their own forebears. « Condumio is part of traditional recipes from Tenerife and, by extension, the Canary Islands even if, like other dishes and ingredients such as Guía de Isora’s turre de trigo, it has been somewhat forgotten nowadays», says Fran Belín, a Tenerife journalist and expert in Canarian cuisine who contributes regularly to this magazine.

However, local people and the team at the town hall in Icod de Los Vinos have set out to rescue the dish and, in the words of mayor Francis González, «work to ensure the tradition is not lost and the different variants of the dish are re tained». According to chefs’ association Acyre Canarias, condumio made from wild rabbit, potatoes and spices (cumin occasionally, bay leaf and oregano always) has always been part and parcel of the life of farmers, the people who work the land and whose hands and skin are weathered by the sun.

In the words of Pablo Pastor, Acyre’s chairman, «the star ingredient here is not just rabbit but Icod’s little ‘bonita’ potatoes; this is one of few places where the potatoes are peeled, diced (or not), and lightly fried before being added to the dish when almost ready to give it more taste». It is one of those dishes that have changed very little down the years: it has been handed down from huntsmen to cooks, from mothers to their children,

and to the small number of restaurants in Icod that prepare it exactly as it was made decades ago.

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A throwback to the ties between huntsmen and cooks, rabbit condumio represents the true culinary essence of Icod de los Vinos

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According to the Dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy, condumio is «a dish eaten with pieces of bread, like all stew-type dishes». Probably because it is 100% local and symbolises local pride, it lasts in the mind for many hours. Candelaria Victoria Luis Monroig, chef at La Parada (a restaurant in Icod’s old part) knows all this well. Her grandparents Victoria and Agustín used to make the dish in the family home. They were rural folk and, like many, her grandfather

returned to Icod after living in Cuba and passed on his age-old knowledge to his granddaughter, who is now to ‘blame’ for the spicy aroma that whets the appetite of visitors to the town. «Our small ‘boni ta’ potatoes from the north give this dish its character, along with the rabbit and peppers. I tend to use our local peppers from north Tenerife ahead of the La Palma variety, although I often put both in».

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To preserve its essential traits, Candelaria does not peel the potatoes completely. Like chef Pablo Pastor, she also makes a thick majado sauce with the rabbit liver, blending the ingredients

thoroughly in the mortar to ensure sauces and different dishes turn out perfectly. «It is used as a thickener, with pieces of fried bread and sometimes fried crushed almonds. This all helps bind the sauce», says the chef. Extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, white wine and enjoy - with or without rice. It is the taste of the foothills of Tenerife, a journey to reinstate this local dish in Icod that began back in 2014.

Speaking of wine, it is a great opportunity to raise a glass of one made using listán negro grapes, although its white counterpart made by local producers such as the Icod-based Balja company is also ideal. Wine arrived here thanks to the Portuguese, who cultivated vineyards in the 16-17th centuries. The malvasía grape variety also deserves mention and, indeed, Icod’s Museum of Malvasía, which is located on one of its narrow streets, showcases the wine-growing culture of a town whose architecture reflects its connection with farming, the hills and the sea.

Condumio made with wild rabbit and small potatoes has always been part and parcel of the lives of farmers and locals

EIGHT ISLANDS TO DISCOVER

EL HIERRO

Activities

Walking El Hierro is a great island for those who love nature and walking. Its peaks, hills and laurel forests are home to a network of trails which are great for combining sport and nature. Among the best are La Llanía and El Pinar, although they all offer a variety of contrasts and routes that highlight the vegetation: from green forests to pine woodland.

LA GOMERA

Gastro

Almogrote

Almogrote cheese paste is part and parcel of La Gomera and one of the distinctive features of the island’s gastronomy. Similar to paté, it is made from cured cheese, pepper and oil, all of which make it ideal to be eaten with bread or potatoes.

Almogrote came about due to the need to make use of bits of cheese that had turned hard. Generally made with goat’s cheese nowadays, its origins can be traced back to the island’s earliest days and it is based on a Sephardi recipe.

La Llanía.

Almogrote.

LA PALMA

Traditions

Sirinoque

The sirinoque dance is a drum-based folk tradition from the island of La Palma. It is believed to predate the colonisation of the island given its primitive appearance, singing style and the similarities with dance steps from the period, as described in chronicles. Other character istic features include heel tapping. The dance is performed by two lines of dancers, one male and one female, who stand facing each other and cross over.

The rhythm is provided by the drum although any everyday instrument can be used as percussion. Other instruments commonly used in the sirinoque are flutes and castanets.

TENERIFE

Nature

Tenerife goat

The Tenerife goat is found in both the north and south of the island. Genetic studies suggest it is of pre-Hispanic origin and that it came from Africa like the earliest inhabitants of the Canaries.

Its most common distinguishing features are its black and brown hair. The goat adapts readily to different climates, as illustrated by the fact that those in the north have longer coats given that they have acclimatised to the more humid conditions, whereas those in the much drier south have shorter hair.

Thanks to its sturdy legs, the goat copes well with narrow spaces and rocky parts. Its diet consists largely of grain, forage and pastureland, which give it the protein needed to produce quality milk, cheese and meat.

Sirinoque.

Tenerife goat.

GRAN CANARIA

Swimming

Amadores Beach

Amadores is an eminently tourist beach and its extensive and well-tend ed facilities are clearly indicated in the abundant signage which also outlines prohibited activities in this very family-and tourist-oriented bay. Such features have enabled it to fly, since 2004, the pres tigious EU Blue Flag, a guarantee of the environmental sensitivity of its services and upkeep. The beach is very uniform in terms of sand and swimming areas. Showers, changing rooms, toilets, lockers and many other facilities will help you feel that you are in a fitting tourism spot in the mecca of world tourism today: the Canary Islands.

FUERTEVENTURA

Culture

Fuerteventura Archaeology Museum

Located in the heart of the historic town of Betancuria, Fuerteventura’s Archaeology Museum, a Site of Cultural Interest, is a must-visit for anyone wishing to get to know the island’s history and the way of life of its earliest inhabit ants in detail. Through the legacy left by the indigenous population in sites such as Mt Tindaya, the Villaverde Cave, La Atalayita, La Fortaleza, La Pared…, remains brought together for display in the museum, we can gradually reconstruct the material culture of the population (called majos) and how they survived for over two thousand year in this arid and harsh land.

The Archaeology Museum is key to the conservation, research and dissemination of Fuerteventura’s archaeological heritage and offers visitors a range of temporary exhibitions.

Amadores Beach.

Fuerteventura Archaeology Museum.

LANZAROTE

Postcard spots

Timanfaya National Park

Timanfaya National Park stretches across 51.07 km2 in south-west Lan zarote. The Park is volcanic in origin, its most recent eruptions taking place in 1824. It is home to more than twenty-five volcanoes, including Montañas del Fuego, Montaña Rajada and the Corazoncillo caldera. Given that volcanic activity is still ongoing, there are parts on the surface that reach temperatures of between one hundred and two hundred degrees, with some at over fifteen metres depth reaching six hundred degrees. Designated a World Biosphere Reserve by Unesco, Timanfaya is an ideal spot to delight in the sights of nature, with landscapes capable of transporting visitors to the planet Mars.

LA GRACIOSA

Curious tales Pedro Barba

The area known as Pedro Barba (also Casas de Pedro Barba) owes its name to an early 20th century Canarian busi nessman who realised how rich the local waters were in fish and decided to build a fish salting factory and a village for the workers. This was a great idea as the harbour was so close to the plentiful fishing waters. Shortly after starting the project and building the jetty, warehouses and village, the man suffered an accident on one of his boats and the entire initiative collapsed as a result. The fishermen gradually abandoned the area and there were just 95 people left in 1967.

However, in the mid-1970s most of the houses and land were acquired by a company and the tourist area that now exists here came into being. It is inhabit ed mostly in summer.

Timanfaya. Pedro Barba.

PLAYA DE LAS CANTERAS - LAS CANTERAS BEACH

FOTOGRAFÍA: NACHO GONZÁLEZ

By Aarón Rodríguez González Photos by José Chiyah Álvarez

FROM HARÍA TO TEGUISE

Lanzarote is special. Its many natural features, which are almost always hostile, have conditioned the way of life of the island’s hardy people and have left a heavy imprint on its fiery soul. This charming and very unique land of volcanoes exhibits its natural beauty and extensive cultural heritage the length and breadth of its age-old trails.

This month’s walk starts in the square in Haría, one of the loveliest towns on an island which is itself truly captivating. We follow the signs for the GR-131 along Elvira Sánchez road, next to the César Manrique Muse um-House, and a short time later we leave the town by taking a dirt track. We then head up the Malpaso valley whose sides are lined with now-abandoned farm terrac es that are living testimony to the extent to which the land was farmed in bygone days. During the ascent we will be spellbound by the views over the fertile plan of Haría, an oasis surrounded by hills and adorned by hundreds of palm trees. The imposing and beautiful Corona volcano reminds us that we are in the Canary Islands, not a remote valley straight out of Arabian Nights.

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On reaching the peak, our route offers further delightful and exceptional panoramic views: to the left we look out over the Temisa valley with the village of Tabayesco in its centre.

The view from here is breath-taking. Below us lie Penedo Bay and Famara Cove -

Beyond that, we can see as far as the coastal village of Arrieta. We carry on walking to the small church of las Nieves, passing on our right the route up to Peñas del Chache, the island’s highest point. After the junction we begin the gentle descent towards a natural watchtower at the top of the Famara cliffs. The view from here is breath-taking. Below us lie Penedo Bay and Famara Cove. Further on, on the other side of the plain, we see the village of San Bartolomé and, on the horizon, the so-called Fire Mountains. To the rear, after the cliffs, we can glimpse the small islands that form the Chinijo Archipelago. We begin to walk gently downhill towards the historic town of Teguise, Lanzarote’s first ever capital. From Vega de San José we can see, situated on the edge of the Guanapay volcano, Santa Bárbara Castle. The castle served as a fortress and place of refuge for centuries, during the days when pirate raids on the island were common. Teguise was set on fire on several occasions during such raids and, although no longer the capital, it has not lost an ounce of its beauty and oldtown flavour, an impression that grows as we venture further inside and reach the square of the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Lanzarote’s earliest parish church. This month’s walk ends here, in the shade of a church that boasts a history dating back almost six centuries.

Positive Elevation: 371 metres.

Negative Elevation: 358 metres.

Length: 13.2 kilometres.

Highest point : 625 metres.

Lowest point : 285 metres.

Nearby places of interest : there are some lovely swim ming spots such as the Famara and Los Charcos beaches.

Notes: the walk is quite long but offers walkers very re warding and much-appreciat ed views.

Did you know ? Haría Valley is also known as the valley of a thousand palm trees because the area boasts many palms native to the Canary Islands.

HARÍA

TEGUISE Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Vega de San José

Pico de Maramajo

Ermita de las Nieves Peñas del Chache

By Raquel Álvarez Photos by Rocío Eslava

AN ALTERNATIVE FOR THE FAMILY THAT MAKES UP FOR THE LACK OF SAND

For many people from the Canaries and further afield, El Hierro is an irresistible telluric attraction and to spend part of the year enjoying its incredible combination of pristine nature, age-old tranquility and unforgettable corners is an existential need. The local population is fully aware of its riches and the first to benefit from, and care for, its jewels. The El Golfo valley in the northern municipality of La Frontera is one of its most spectacular gems and boasts swimming spots such as the Charco Azul, which is among the top ten of its kind in the Canaries. However, it also boasts the natural pools at La Maceta, a top and safe swimming spot for all the family on the rugged El Hierro coast, which has big waves much of the year and lacks fine sand, except for the spectacular red cove at El Verodal or small areas such as Arenas Blancas. La Maceta is the perfect example of pools recreated by humans to mitigate the power of the open sea and allow people of all ages to enjoy the Atlantic, whose impact is felt more strongly in this valley than in most parts of the Canaries.

In other features published in this magazine on the subject of El Hierro’s coast, we have sought to debunk the myth that this Atlantic treasure, an island that dignifies the word legendary, has no beaches. The El Verodal beach, with its unforgettable reddish sand from the quarry in the adjacent mountain; the small Tecorón cove which is a prime candidate to be the location for a film about castaways; the small beach at the harbour in La Restinga or bays like Tamaduste (admittedly, with less sand) all give the lie to such statements. In addition, the island’s many natural rockpools and man-made swimming pools make for an impressive and even surprising offering. However, it is also true that in certain parts it is almost impossible to find a sandy spot to enjoy the Atlantic. One such part on El Hierro is the spectacular El Golfo valley in the municipality of La Frontera. From the Salmor Rocks

to some small places at Arenas Blancas, on the other end of El Golfo past the spa and Pozo de la Salud (in Sabinosa), it is virtually impossible to find a square metre of fine sand. This dearth of sand makes spots such as the La Maceta pools near Las Puntas and Los Roques all the more important.

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La Maceta ideal for all the family although care always needs taken with the force of the Atlantic and its strong waves

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La Maceta is ideal for all the family although care needs to be taken with the force of the Atlantic and its waves, which often flow over the largest of the pools (there are three of different depths, each with its own attractive features) mak-

ing its waters move dangerously at high tide or when the sea is rough, as often happens on this rugged and volcanic northern coast. At other times, when the sea is calm, this spot is simply delightful, particularly when the sun is shining. In addition, the ample parking (including for the disabled), the lack of buildings in the area, and the presence of various small farm holdings used primarily to grow tropical pineapple add to its attraction and make it a must-visit on the island.

To get there, take the El Matorral road from Las Puntas, the spa or from the centre of La Frontera. Following the road signs, a map or satnav we will come to the Los Arroyos road, at the end of which the pools are located. Unless we have set out really early, on reaching our destination we will soon see why it is a very popular spot, with many visitors arriving in hired cars and even on coach -

es. The pools are busier on sunny days and are particularly busy around midday, at weekends and on public holidays in summer, when most locals tend to visit. The pools are big and have various areas including a terrace for sunbathing. Swimming tends to be safe although care needs to be taken not to slip on the moss, particularly in winter and spring. Nonetheless, we recommend that you keep to the actual pools and avoid the open sea no matter how calm the Atlantic might seem on certain days.

There is a restaurant or at least an area designed for such a purpose, but it tends not to be open. However, there is a wide choice of places to eat in Las Puntas and in the centre of La Frontera. Fisher men can often be seen in the small pebble coves nearby and some of them come specifically to catch the many moray eels that live in these rocky coastal parts.

A stroll along the long path to Las Puntas affords impressive views and volcanic scenery. From all the above, it is easy to see why this is a highly recommended place for a visit and, indeed, is one of the most popular spots in El Golfo. It is a must if you want to enjoy the sea on an island which, despite having some beaches and sand, needs spots like this to make up for the many miles where the two are practically impossi ble to find. In addition, La Maceta is on a par with any of the Canaries’ recreated pools designed to suit all ages. All that remains is for you and yours to try them out for yourselves on an island which really deserves to be visited at least once a year.

Location: in El Golfo Valley (La Frontera), near Las Puntas and the Salmor Rocks.

Lifeguards: no.

Surfing beach: no.

Restaurants: no, but many available in Las Puntas and the town centre.

Toilets: yes, but not always open.

Showers: yes, but not always open.

Sunbeds and umbrellas: no.

Adapted for the disabled: mostly no, but disabled parking available.

Parking: many spaces available next to the pools.

Public transport: taxis and buses on the main road throu gh the valley and to the town centre.

Dogs: rarely at the pools, although many people do walk their dogs nearby.

Interesting fact: as occurs with similar natural pools such as La Fajana and Charco Azul (both in La Palma), Pozo de Las Calcosas (El Hierro) and others, La Maceta has three swimming areas of different sizes and depths. The most popular is the largest one because the water changes much less in the sma ller ones, which are furthest away from the open sea.

A NEW HOME FOR PLUMA AND SUERTE AT POEMA DEL MAR

The Poema del Mar aquarium will be the new home for Pluma and Suerte, two turtles that were found in a serious condition by the Fuerteventura recovery centre, and that could not survive in their natural environment as a result of their injuries. The work of this centre has been fundamental for the animals to survive.

They will now be able to enjoy a better quality of life in the aquarium’s modern facilities, adapted to their size and needs. “We are going to provide the turt

les with everything they need to gradually adapt to the aquarium, so that they can finally live in harmony with the other animals,” says Ángel Curros, Poema del Mar’s veterinarian.

The centre has qualified staff and lar ge quarantines to complete the recovery process of injured or sick animals. This is yet another example of the importance of zoological institutions as centres for the conservation of fauna, especially those animals that could not survive in the wild.

CANARIAN GASTRONOMY AND FOLK TRADITIONS SHOWCASED AT VALLADOLID REGIONAL CENTRES EVENT

Following the two-year hiatus in the activities of the Valladolid Convention of Regional Centres due to the Covid pandemic, a Canary Islands’ Day was held once again and served as a window to promote products from the islands. The day also featured a musical performance by Canarian folk group Chajoigo. The gastronomy and folk fair forms part of Valladolid’s annual festivities and brings

together cultural centres representing Spain’s seventeen autonomous regions.

The event was inaugurated at the be ginning of September in a giant marquee erected in the car park of the José Zor rilla football stadium, with each region allocated its own stands inside. On one of the days the Canaries shared centre stage with the region of León.

CANARY ISLANDS MARKET THEMSELVES IN GERMANY AS A HAVEN FOR ‘SILVER PLUS’ TOURISTS

The Canary Islands’ Department of Tourism has responded to the current economic context by launching a strategy on social media aimed at Germans aged 55+ who want to escape the cold weather, save money and look after their health during the winter months.

The campaign focuses on the qualities of the climate of the Canaries during the cold European winter and dispels some of the psychological barriers to book ing a long stay in the islands, while also underscoring the twin benefits for such tourists: the financial saving made by not having to pay heating bills at home and the health advantages of the warm and stable climate of the Canaries for holi daymakers over 55.

The marketing campaign lasts three weeks and is funded by 40,000 euros from REACT-EU, sufficient to achieve

an impact with optimal frequency on a target population that is perfectly segmented in terms of age, interests and be haviour, and is part of a single and large market such as Germany.

By Cristina Torres Luzón Illustrated by Ilustre Mario

MY BONES CAN FALL ILL

Although our bones can go unnoticed for much of our life journey, they are indispensable vehicles for supporting us along the way. How we treat them from childhood onwards has a bearing on our risk of falling ill or can compromise our quality of life. The best way to prevent osteoporosis is to be aware of the care our bones require and to implement this care from an early age.

The adult human skeleton consists of 206 bones and supports our weight and facilitates motion. However, it is not exempt from illness and one of the most widespread conditions suffered is osteoporosis. A bone is a living structure which continually regenerates itself through the reabsorption and creation of new tissue.

There comes a time in our adult life, usually around the age of fifty, when this process becomes imbalanced and there

is more bone destruction than regeneration. This change leads bone porosity to increase due to a loss of mineralisation, which causes bones to become more fragile and at greater risk of fracture.

Depending on the degree of loss of bone density, we may present osteope nia (lower loss) or osteoporosis (higher loss). The World Health Organisation (WHO) has established these criteria based on the degree of bone density as measured through a bone density scan.

For the most part, this is a silent dis ease that often goes undiagnosed until osteoporotic fractures appear. These can arise in any part of the body spontaneously or following minor trauma. However, they most frequently occur in the hip, spinal column and wrists.

Symptoms that appear once the condition sets in include height loss and back pain due to fractured or compressed vertebra, curved posture, painful joints, rigidity and fractures.

The list of risk factors is extensive: age, gender (female), family history of osteoporosis or broken hip, low intake of calcium, vitamin D deficiency, toxic habits such as sedentarism and smoking, taking certain medicines such as glucocorticoids, lith ium or heparin, or conditions that affect metabolism such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism and celiac disease, among others.

It is worth noting that, following menopause, women present a greater risk of osteoporosis due to the absence of certain hormones. During the first five years of menopause loss of bone mass can be between 2 % and 6 % annually.

How can we treat it once it appears?

Two of the main ways are physical exercise and a diet rich in certain nutrients. These healthy habits should be instilled from childhood to prevent the disease.

Regular strengthening exercise involving some type of impact has been shown to be effective in treating and preventing osteoporosis as it helps preserve and improve bone density while also increas ing muscle mass, thus protecting bones and joints.

Various scientific studies show that sedentarism increases the risk of bone fractures, whereas regular exercise

lowers the risk, prevents the onset of osteoporosis, and improves the effect of pharmacological treatments where it has already set in.

Before taking up exercise we should be assessed by a professional who can provide guidance on how to make best use of it and avoid injuries caused by incorrect practice. For example, every individual will require a given exercise load depending on their physical condi tion and the degree of osteoporosis or osteopenia suffered.

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Symptoms that appear once the condition sets in include height loss and back pain due to fractured or compressed vertebrae

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In terms of eating, it is important to know what to eat and what to avoid in order to prevent and improve the condi tion. Advice is available from nutritionist, pharmacist and psychoneuroendocrinol ogist @mariarealcapell on her Instagram account, in which she states that we should take foodstuffs that are a source of phosphorous, calcium, vitamin K, omega 3, phytoestrogens, silicon, prebiotics, proteins, magnesium and vitamin D.

In addition, we should avoid alcohol, excess coffee and salt, fizzy drinks, refined vegetable oils, as well as the excessive consumption of meat given that it speeds up the loss of calcium through the kidneys.

Now you know what needs to be done to keep your bones healthy and prevent osteoporosis. Don’t forget to instil these habits in those near and dear to you to ensure that their bodies enjoy good bone density.

GASTRIC BALLOON CAPSULE IN THE CANARIES: RETURN TO AND MAINTAIN YOUR NORMAL WEIGHT IN FOUR MONTHS

The balloon capsule is a non-invasive procedure which does not require endos copy, surgery or anaesthesia. The capsule is taken by mouth with a little water and is eliminated naturally. We have pioneered the use of this non-invasive technique in the Canaries since 2017 and added a new and enhanced version in 2021.

We have years of experience of using the balloon capsule behind us and the satisfaction and excellent results of our patients encourage us to continue progressing further. Free initial assessment.

T. 689 11 81 54

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

T. 644 42 54 98 Las Palmas GC www.capsulagastricaca narias.com

LA CANDELARIA HOSPITAL RECEIVES SPAIN’S FIRST AENOR CERTIFICATION FOR NUTRITION AND DIETETICS UNITS

The Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria University Hospital has become the first in Spain to receive UNE 179009 quality certification for its Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Unit, following the audit conducted by Spanish certification body AENOR, which evidenced the good practices of service staff.

The certificates accrediting the award were presented in the Traumatology Building assembly hall at a ceremony attended by the hospital’s managing director, Natacha Sujanani, AENOR’s Health and Prevention manager, Marta Serrano, and Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics specialist Pablo Suárez.

All emphasised the excellent professional work of the hospital personnel, which will make the renewal of the certificates possible every three years.

In addition, the Liver Transplant Unit has again been certified under UNE standard 179008, a recognition first earned in 2018 when it became only the second in Spain to be awarded the distinction.

NON-SURGICAL

High-intensity micro-focused ultrasound (Ultherapy) is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates collagen production and fosters skin rejuvenation. Ultherapy renovates your skin from the inside out, without damaging the surface and with no recovery down-

TREATMENT AT BASCOVIDALES

time. It requires just one session per year. Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared device and includes ultrasound imaging and re al-time visualisation to assess which layers of tissue are being treated where the new collagen is generated.

KEROXEN FESTIVAL

El Tanque Cultural Space

22 October until 3 December

The 14th Keroxen Festival brings its most international line-up so far to Tenerife and features groups of the stature of Japanese Acid Mothers Temple, the band headed by guitarist and psychedelic rock experimenter Mako to Kawabata. Others performing include the New York band A Place to Bury Strangers, who will be at their noisiest best, and Spanish band Esplendor Geométrico. Keroxen 2022 takes place every weekend from 22 October to 3 December, with a total of ten days of great concerts. Now that restrictions have been lifted, this year we will be able to enjoy 28 groups and six resident artists in a project that will once again transform the interior of the El Tanque Cultural Space in Santa Cruz de Tene rife, which will be turned into a meeting point for artistic and musical disciplines and a laboratory for residencies and experimentation.

La Laguna From 1 to 29 October

The DocuRock 8 Festival returns with screenings of the best music documentaries: Summer of Soul (1 October), winner of the Oscar for the Best Doc umentary Feature; Amazing Grace (8 October), on Aretha Franklin; The Beatles and India (14 October); Nightclu bbing: the birth of punk rock in New Yor k (29 October); there will also be a special screening of Satur day Night Fever (7 October) to mark its 45th anniversary. All screenings in Multicines Tenerife (La Laguna). More information at www.docurock.es.

CANARIES CLOWNBARET

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

From

The Clownbaret International Clown Festival (FIC) takes place from 3-16 October on the islands of La Palma, La Gomera, Gran Canaria and Tenerife. The programme features a total of 132 performances and activ ities by twenty-nine interna tional and local companies.

The Clownbaret International Festival showcases the leading clowns on today’s scene. It also highlights the value of this artistic discipline, drawing on artists from countries such as Belgium, Mexico, United Kingdom and Denmark. More information at www.festivalin ternacionalclownbaret.com.

GRAN CANARIA

DOS TONTOS Y YO

ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS (ARC)

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria / Santa Lucía 11 and 20 November 2022

In November, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria becomes the departure point once again for this Atlantic Rally, now in its 37th year. It is a true classic in the city’s calendar of events. The colourful spectacle of the yachts can be followed from the seafront Avenida Marítima in the capital. A spectacular feast for the eyes.

VÍCTOR MANUEL

Florentino Fernández, José Mota and Santiago Segura join forces for their show Dos tontos y yo (Two Idiots plus Me). Reflec tions and outlandish situations designed solely to make you laugh. The curtain rises: Mota, Segura and Flo, better known by some as La Vieja del Vi sillo, Torrente and Krispin Klander, take to the stage together or separately, in pairs or individual ly, to offer laughs and nonsense to help us understand today’s sense of humour. Their sole mission is to make the audience laugh at all costs. www.auditorioalfredokraus.es.

Alfredo Kraus Auditorium 30 October

The Mar Abierto Festival is honoured to include Víctor Manuel’s 75th Birthday Tour in its 2022 programme. The singer/songwriter from Asturias is keen to celebrate with his fans a special day that merits a tour taking in Spain and Latin America. The concerts come after several years of being unable to take to the road on tour and having had to cancel many concerts on his last one, El gusto es mío, which reflected another of his great passions: food. Tickets on sale at www. auditorioalfradokraus.es and www.festivalmarabierto.com.

If anyone thinks that the instru ments and rhythms of traditional Galician music do not sound good with synthesisers and drum machines, they have never listened to Baicua. The Galician producer surprised us in 2018 with his first record, Solpor, the folktronic revelation not just in Spain but worldwide. With his latest work, Embruxo (2021), Baiuca brings to Majorca his personal vision of music from his homeland. The album, which features collaborations from Rodrigo Cuevas and Galician folk group Lilaina, has caught the attention of the music media across all languages. A very special live concert blending tradition and future which has already been performed in Mo rocco, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, South Africa and Colom bia, among other countries.

Sala Gremi Music Centre

17 December

Alfredo Kraus Auditorium 29 October

FLORENCE

Bryan Adams comes to Florence as part of his So Happy It Hurts 2022 tour to delight his Italian fans with his songs and classic hits. The Canadian has composed songs for top world stars such as Luciano Pavarotti, Barbra Streisand, Tina Turner, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Sting, Smokey Robinson and many others, performing duets with many of them also.

MADEIRA MADEIRA DIG FESTIVAL

Museum of Contemporary Art 8 and 13 December

The “Madeira Dig” International Digital Arts Festival is unique in the field of alternative music and showcases the island as an attractive tourism destination for a young and active audience. The Mudas Contemporary Art Museum and the John Dos Passos Cultural Centre host the event, which is a prestigious cultural initiative brimming with artistic quality and underpinned by the desire to foster environmental awareness.

LILLE JULIEN DORÉ

Since winning TV talent show Nouvelle Star, the French singer has enjoyed a successful music career, releasing three studio albums - Ersatz (2008), Bichon (2011) and Løve (2013) - all of which reached the top four in the official album charts in France.

He has also had hits in Belgium and Switzerland. In 2009, Doré recorded Helsinki with Mélanie Pain, while Sylvie Vartan colla borated on the launch of 2010 album, Soleil bleu.

Nelson Mandela Forum

8 December

Zenith Arena 10 December

EXHIBITIONS AND FAIRS GRAN CANARIA GALDÓS IN THE LABYRINTH OF SPAIN

MENORCA KITCHEN OF CRAFTS

Barrié Foundation

Until end of 2022

Pérez Galdós Museum-House

Until 23 December

Inauguration of the exhibition Galdós in the Laybyrinth of Spain, produced by Acción Cultural España (AC/E), which offers an overview of the pho tography of Pérez Galdós and his era, arising out of his work as a photo-historian. The exhibition presents dozens of portraits of the maestro, most of which are shown for the first time here. For further information, see www. casamuseoperezgaldos.com

TENERIFE

LO ÚTIL DEL VACÍO

Artizar Art Gallery

Until 22 October

Anchored in ink and gouache on paper, with colour highlights and selected applications of gold and silver leaf, the style and iconography of Marco Alom (Ten erife, 1986) combines a lengthy list of aesthetic references that take us to old avatars of culture, symbolism, surrealism and the neogothic style that flourished throughout the last century, from high art to comics.

Menorca ArtIsan Centre

Until April 2023

This exhibition focuses on kitch ens as a place where tangible objects of craftmanship tend to be concentrated but also as a family meeting space and place to carry out artisanal practices. The visit begins with an indis pensable utensil in Menorca –mortar bowls, a range of which are exhibited from different periods and materials. It continues with information on the evolution of the different types of kitchen down the ages.

A CORUÑA INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION

This collection of international contemporary art, which was commenced in 2008 and is based on the different forms of support for the Arts traditionally provided by the Foundation, seeks to address the question «What do we mean when we talk about painting today?». Through the collection, the Foundation aims to bring to Galicia the best of international contemporary art and show case talented Galician painters to the world. The collection, comprising a total of 51 works, brings together Galician artists who feature in world collec tions, emerging talents, estab lished names on the Spanish and international scene, and key names in painting from the second half of the 20 th century.

MADEIRA

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DELICACIES FAIR

Boaventura

10 and 11 December

The Casa do Povo da Boaventu ra, which is located in the village of Fajã do Penedo (municipal ity of São Vicente), will hold its Traditional Christmas Delicacies Fair on 10 and 11 December. The event aims to promote and reinvent the customary traditional food and drink of the festive sea son in Madeira. In addition to the typical Christmas fayre on show, including - of course - liqueurs, corn bread and traditional cakes and pastries, the Fair will also include lots of entertainment in the shape of musical performances by a range of folk groups.

By Francisco Belín Illustrated by Ilustre Mario

COMING UP: A SERVING OF GOFIO TO DELIGHT THE TASTE BUDS

Let’s lift the lid off the very best of the Canaries. Even bet ter, off the classic tin used by families to store the Islands’ staple food, its contents tailored to individual tastes and based on shrewd roasting processes and miracles produced with barley, wheat and maize. A food capable of remedying hunger in bygone days and of adding the most authentic touch of Canarian character today at breakfast, harvests and country fairs …

Let’s talk gofio, Let’s talk Canarian, In a meeting circle, Let’s talk about grain. Let’s talk gofio, In its sown form, Let’s talk of the water, needed to make it.

What better way to begin this piece than with the opening lines of the poem penned by Francisco Zamora, known as Paco the Guanche, on one of the Canaries’ iconic foodstuffs? How many adjectives could we use to describe it?

From the classic, quick and makedo vague definition of «flour made from roasted cereals» to the daily evocation of shutting your eyes and taking in its characteristic aroma. That of the gofio prepared by the islands’ earliest inhabitants, now used in traditional cuisine to enhance the virtues of a delicious and piping hot watercress broth.

With summer now well and truly over, gofio makes a return to daily life to add a savoury touch to breakfast, in artisanal bakery products; lunches accompanied by escaldones (gofio broths) or rounded off with sweet gofio cakes … These are ever-presents also at country fairs and festivities held on saints’ feast days. Moving on from uses and customs to the opinion of TV baking star David Pallás, who is quoted as saying the following about this flagship foodstuff: «It can be used for incredible things in pastry-making; there are loads of unique recipes that use this exclusive roasted maize, which adds a great touch to desserts also». Words about Canarian gofio voiced by the pastry maker, chocolatier, adviser, teacher and commentator.

Paco the Guanche’s poem goes on to outline his feelings about gofio, as does Rayco Herrera Chávez from La Gomera, who won the 2022 Best Canarian Gofio award at the Official Agrocanarias Gofio Competition organised by the Canarian Institute for Food Quality (ICCA). In terms of medals and awards earned, La Gomera has emerged as a major power in recent times largely because, while preferences may differ from island to is

land, La Gomera’s gofios tend to appeal to everyone.

Gofio tasting can be carried out in a highly objective way, based on its different phases (smell, appearance when dry and when mixed with water, taste impressions, and in granulated form, etc.), and from traditional to newer tradition-based approaches, including reports from south Tenerife by Sunil Lakhani of a different, and even heroic, buckwheat-associated product. Plans were in place to bring the raw material from Ukraine, but the idea was swiftly scuppered by Russia’s invasion of the country.

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Reputable pastry chefs praise gofio’s exclusive roasted nuances that give high-quality baking great personality -

The initiative highlighted the warm, balanced and elegantly persistent taste of healthy buckwheat although it should be noted that, despite its appearance and traditional name, it is not a cereal.

A very important aspect also is that it is gluten-free and possesses excellent properties for health. Lightly coloured and fine when milled. And without lumps when you give the jar a few taps. In the nose, nothing unusal to report: the opposite in fact.

The sheer range of possibilities augurs well in terms of the presence in today’s world of gofios that not only possess great nutritional value but strive to come up with preparations that can be consumed safely by people with tolerances and allergies.

BODEGA STRATVS

The Bodega Stratvs winery is located in La Geria, a stunning location acknowledged worldwide for its uniqueness. Every day the winery unlocks the doors of Lanzarote’s winemaking tradition and shares the secrets and nuances of its volcanic wines with visitors, particularly wine lovers. The wines are made using grapes grown in the lava that covers this Island of Volcanoes in a beautiful and unique black cloak.

Tradition, innovation, authenticity and the utmost re spect for the terroir, not to mention a spectacular interior architecture, make Bodega Stratvs and its surroundings a must-visit on any wine tour of the island. To complete the circle of Lanzarote’s gastronomic identity, mention should be made of the El Aljibe del Obispo restaurant, an inseparable part of the winery. The restaurant offers din ers an attractive menu closely associated with another Canary Island gem: the Finca de Uga farm, a pioneering and innovative agricultural project renowned for its long standing research and development work around a wide range of local products of the highest quality. The Aljibe del Obispo combines coolness and the unmistakeable taste of fresh, locally sourced produce with the restaurant’s expert knowhow.

FUENCALIENTE ACTS TO RECOVER VINEYARDS

Fuencaliente Town Council in La Palma is taking steps to restore vine yards in the Llanos Negros and Las Machuqueras areas to grow malvasía grapes and other traditional local varieties as a way of generating jobs and income for local wine

producers. The recovery plan will include a study of the most important factors directly affecting grape and wine production.

A strengths and weaknesses analysis will be conducted and proposals, measures and actions to

be carried out will also be drawn up. In addition, Fuencaliente recently hosted the first Malvasía Days with the aim of show casing this jewel in the viticulture of both the town and La Palma generally, according to digital publication ElTime.es.

LA VACA AZUL

El Cotillo in Fuerteventura is an ideal spot for campers and should be underli ned in red in any decent travel notebook if the aim is to spend a few hours trying wonderful sea food. Of the wide range of places available to eat, one stands out by tradition for its quality ingredients and friendly service.

La Vaca Azul is one of the top restau rants not just in Fuerteventura but also in the entire Canary Islands. Set in a stunning location looking out over the Atlan tic and the old harbour at El Cotillo, here you will enjoy excellent fresh fish and seafood dishes, along with an extensive selection of soups, salads, meats, rice dishes and home-made desserts.

Requena, 9. El Cotillo - Fuerteventura. T. 928 538 685.

DISCOVER A CORUÑA, THE WINDOW ON THE SEA

The city of A Coruña is considered the capital of the Rías Altas region and is the second biggest in Galicia in terms of population. Its strategic location on the north-west coast of the Iberian peninsula has led it to be given the popular name of the window on the sea.

Any time is good to visit the city and enjoy the mild temperatures and Atlan tic climate it offers year-round, not to mention a spectacular cuisine based on products of the highest quality. Scallops large and small, cheese, Galician veal … Who can resist?

Mention of A Coruña necessarily means highlighting its maritime personality, re flected in the most typical photograph of the city: the glazed balconies of La Marina, hence its nickname of the city of glass.

A Coruña’s seafront promenade, which measures thirteen kilometres, is Europe’s longest and can be followed to reach the Tower of Hercules, the true symbol of the city. The only extant Roman lighthouse, the Tower is the oldest operational lighthouse anywhere the world.

The Tower of Hercules and the square named after María Pita, the heroine who rose up against the English troops when they tried to take the city, are two examples among many of what the Galician city has to offer.

If all the above were not sufficient, A Coruña’s cultural life is one of the best in Spain and will make you want to return time and time again.

Direct flights three times a week

Thanks to Binter’s direct flights from Gran Canaria on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can visit A Coruña from November onwards. This improved schedule will allow you to enjoy a short trip or a weekend break, with both formats in great demand in winter.

The Department of Tourism of Fuerteventura’s governing council (Cabildo), headed by Jessica de León, has signed an agreement with Binter under which the airline is designated the exclusive carrier for beneficiaries of the new Bonoventura pre-paid tourism card scheme. Thanks to the agreement, the number of lowest fares for flights from the different islands to Fuerteventura will be increased. In addition, all those who obtain the pre-paid tourism card, including residents of Fuerteventura, can avail themselves of special rates for accommodation on the island on canariasviaja.com.

Beneficiaries can access all the offers and opportunities under the agreement signed between the Cabildo and Binter using the «Establecimientos adheridos» (participating establishments) section on the www.bonofuerteventura.es website.

Fuerteventura Cabildo president Sergio Lloret described the agreement as «highly positive». «Having Binter as part of Bonoventura is an added bonus, enabling Canarians to visit the island and spend more of their budget on sho pping, activities and accommodation», said Lloret. «The campaign –he added–is proving a success and will have an impact of more than 1.6 million euros on the island’s economy».

Tourism chief Jessica de León said that the agreement is designed «to increase the economic impact of the tourism payment cards and benefit hotels and other accommodation. It will also enable Canarians to enjoy our active tourism, diving, kitesurfing, catamaran sailing, guided tours, as well as our gastronomy, which has grown not only in variety but also in quality thanks to the more than one hundred establishments already signed up to the programme».

Forty flights daily to Fuerteventura

To bring Canarians closer together, Binter now offers forty daily flight connections between Fuerteventura and

Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Twenty-seven of the flights operate between Fuerteven tura and Gran Canaria and thirteen between Fuerteventura and Tenerife North airport. Binter has highlighted the efforts made by the airline during the summer months, the busiest for tourism and other passenger travel, to foster air connections with the island of Fuerteventura.

List of first ‘Bonoventura’ beneficiaries

The island’s Department of Tourism has published on the www.bonofuerteventura.com website the first lists of the people who can now pay their share of the cost in order to receive their cards. Updates indicating the beneficiaries and the reserve list will be published every week on the website.

FUERTEVENTURA’S DEPT. OF TOURISM AND BINTER JOIN FORCES TO PROMOTE THE ISLAND’S ATTRACTIONS THROUGH ‘BONOVENTURA’ SCHEME

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