September 2015

September 2015 FREE!

Charity hiking challange, The Long Walk, now in its fourth year, invites you to help us demonstrate that together we can all cross mountains, one step at a time. Meant as a simple act of solidarity with anyone who has ever faced a serious illness, or an unexpected change that threatens their way of life, we want to send a message to say “You Can Do It!� all you have to do is take the first step, then keep going.

Walking coast-to-coast, more than 75km of rough terrain over three days, the event aims to raise funds and awareness for local Breast Cancer Association, the ACCM ahead of International Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October). We ask that you sponsor, donate or simply participate by organising your own gathering, or by joining us to welcome the walkers in on Oct 2nd at the RIU Palace. more p.13

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

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located in El Tablero, at Calle Cartago 24. You can book your time also from their website. www.itvmaspalomas.es

The station has two inspection lines and is equipped with the most modern machinery. This ITV centre now serves the south of the The new vehicle testing centre, ITV island and is a very welcome addiMaspalomas, has opened its doors tion to the area. for MOTs. Opening hours are from It is anticipated that the new ITV Monday to Friday 09:00-13:30 and inspection point will see an aver15:30-18:00 and Saturdays 09:00- age of 20,000 to 30,000 vehicles 14:00 per year. An overdue and much needed facility for the south of The new ITV test centre is Gran Canaria.

Douglas gets a New Paint Job Most will have noticed the Douglas DC-7 exhibited near El Berriel airfield on the way to Maspalomas, that, over the years, despite its decay, has become a memorable reference point due to its visibility from the main road to the south of the island.

The keen of eye will have noticed that the aircraft has recieved a new paint job recently courtesy of Binter Canarias, the inter island airline. The Minister of Tourism of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Maria Ines Jimenez Martin, President of the Royal Aero Club of Gran Canaria, Fernando Moreno and the president of Binter, Pedro Agustin del Castillo proudly presented the new face-lift this summer.

The aircraft was originally donated by Spantax to the Aeroclub in 1979 and has had a fresh lick of paint to honor the charter aviation industry that brought the first tourists here, their contribution to tourism and the economic development of the Canary Islands. It also reminds people of Binter.

The DC-7 had a busy working life flying across America, Asia and Europe and was the last of its kind built. In 1958 Swissair ran it on nonstop routes in the United States; it was later sold to

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Editor-in-Chief: Edward JB Timon Editor@TheCanaryNews.com

Scandinavian Airlines Service (SAS), and was then acquired by Japan Airlines (JAL) for routes flying Tokyo - San Francisco and Tokyo - Los Angeles.

In 1965, she was sold to Spantax, a Spanish charter airline, to operate medium-range routes, linking Madrid and the Canary Islands. She also made longer flights between the Nordic countries and the Balearic and Canary islands, bringing some of the first tourists here in the mid 60s.

She remained active until 1976 and was decommissioned in 1978. A year later, donated to the Royal Aero Club of Gran Canaria, her arrival constituting a major event on the island.

Restoration work on the outside the fuselage was carried out by one of the Binter maintenance companies, SATI and required more than 1,000 hours of cleaning, removal of external corrosion, partial repair of external damage and the primary fuselage structure and then protection primed, using 230 kg. of Paint, 100 kg of protective primer, 6 galvanized steel sheets and 2 fiberglass sheets.

The work was paid for by Binter and is a very welcome improvement to the old coastal road.

Telephone: 928 987 952 / Office Open Mon - Sat 9AM - 5PM Sales: +34 620 978 709 (En/Es/S) / Sales@TheCanaryNews.com via 928 987 952 (En) Accounts: Accounts@TheCanaryNews.com Production: Production@TheCanaryNews.com

The Canary News can not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers, either in advertisements or advertorial, nor can it be held responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, or the nonappearance of advertisements or advertorial. This publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors as a result of poor quality artwork or logos supplied by advertisers and no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy or nonappearance of an advertisement or advertorial. Every effort will be made to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of articles and advertisements in this publication, however the publisher does not accept responsibility for claims or opinions in the same. Reproduction of any part of this newspaper is permitted under Creative Commons 3.0 rules of Attribution, unless otherwise stated.

Edita: JDC Canarias SL, Imprime: Canarias7, Gran Canaria, España. Deposito Legal GC1291-2013

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100GBIT INTERNET LINK UPGRADE Alcatel-Lucent Submarine Networks and Telefónica are upgrading their undersea cable systems linking the Spanish mainland to Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

The 100 gigabits-per-second (Gbit/s) upgrade will offer a more than tenfold increase of the current system capacity, allowing them to meet growing demand for broadband services and connectivity.

The PENCAN-7 and PENCAN-8 systems, which are both 1,400km in length, respectively connect Chipiona in Cadiz Province (Spain Main-

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land) to Las Palmas/Altavista in Gran Canaria, and Conil also in Cadiz to the Province to Candelaria in Tenerife, offering high resilience for traffic protection.

These two submarine fibre-optic cables are part of the Telefonica PENCAN Network which links the Peninsula (Spain Mainland) with The Canary Islands.

SNAKES IN PARADISE

snakes, suggesting an increasing population, left to prey on the lizards and other small animals who have few other natural enemies here.

Their arrival on Gran Canaria, and subsequent introduction to the wild, was anthropogenic, On Gran Canaria more than 3,000 Californian that is to say, as a result of human activity.

Thanks to their great capacity for adaptation King snakes have been captured since 2008, and colonization as well as having no natural which is when their existence in the wild natural environment was first detected. Previ- predators on the island, the Californian King ous studies suggest that this number may not Snake population has flourished and their numbers increased year on year without hineven be 1% of the actual population. Harmless to humans, this invasive species presents drance on this subtropical paradise. a threat to the survival of the native Canarian Previously, finds have been limited to the lizard, a unique and indigenous species. Since north and east of the island, but in 2015, at first identified, this alien invader has been least 4 snakes have been found in the area consistently spotted in the wild across the of Montaña la Data, on the south of Gran north of the island. In 2014 , 686 snakes were Canaria. If you see one, call 112 emergency captured and so far in 2015, more than 400 who will deal with your call in your language.

1/3 GO ALL INCLUSIVE Ask people who live on Gran Canaria and many will tell you that “All Inclusive is killing the island”.The latest numbers are in for the second quarter of 2015 and it seems at least 1/3 of all tourists aged 16 and over who visited the Canary Islands in that time chose an all inclusive package deal, which is 1 percent less than in the same period of 2014.

41% of the All Inclusive tourists were Germans, who were the the highest percentage versus the British who represented just over 30%, and Nordic tourists representing 24% of the total.

Spaniards were the lowest users of all inclusive resorts.

By islands, 53 % of visitors to Fuerteventura stayed in all inclusive resorts, followed by 34% on Lanzarote, 28% on Gran Canaria, 28% on Tenerife and closing the rankings La Palma with 14%.

63% of Canary Islands tourists stayed in hotels, while 29%

stayed in “non-hotel” establishments.

Editor’s Comment:

Tour operators may say that they are only responding to market demand, giving people what they really want; but behind closed doors there are many who recognise that by driving prices down and encouraging ever increasing numbers of tourists to pay a single ticket price for everything they consume while on holiday, real cracks are likely to start to appear within the local economy sooner or later.

One senior tour operator, told us (some years ago) that they knew it wasn’t sustainable, but that as a company they “had to be able to compete on the high street” and, simply put, as the cracks start to appear in one resort, so they start to look for new resorts elsewhere to send people to. This is of course far from the

It is acknowledged that a total eradication of the California King snake will now be “very difficult” if not totally impossible.

New sightings of yet another invasive species of snake on the island of Gran Canaria have been reported this summer too with a Horseshoe Whip Snake having been photographed on 15 of June in the Barranco de Casa Ayala, in the north of Gran Canaria.

Eventually a specimen was captured in August, but it is not thought to be the same one, meaning that they too could now be breeding. The sighting was documented by an observer who had the presence of mind to take a photograph although the snake itself could not be captured. Subsequently, on August 6, a team were able to catch a Horseshoe Whip Snake in the same area. 1,75 meters long, male and weighing 720 grams; though its characteristics lead the project team to suspect that this is a different snake to the one spotted in June.

official story, but those who live and work in the popular resorts know it to be true. uvaware wrist bands Tourism officials, local administrations and the newly elected regional government are taking the claims seriously, and are now starting to scrutinise the real cost of All Inclusive packages.

While it may seem like a good deal on the high street, the average holiday maker has little knowledge of the damage they may be doing by taking a cheap and sunny all inclusive package, as attractive as it may seem, particularly to families on a budget; for the people who live and work at these popular destinations survival is getting harder, as multinationals buy in bulk on the economies of scale

to squeeze as much profit as they can from each customer at origin, leaving little or nothing for the local economies who are being ravaged.

The President of The Canary Islands has expressed his desire to review All Inclusive within the tourism model here, having recognised, along with several other major destinations such as the Balearics and Barcelona, that although it has its place, it must form part of a much wider and more diverse offering that encourages high-value tourism and improved economic benefits for the people who live and work here as well as for the large multinationals.

PLANNING IN PARADISE 4

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Many will have heard recently that there has been a “state of alarm” brewing among property owners, small investors and residents in the busy tourist areas surrounding Meloneras, Playa del Inglés and San Agustín, along the sunny southern coast of Gran Canaria known as the Maspalomas Costa Canaria. Everywhere south of the old GC500 highway is potentially affected.

While there is still plenty of confusion as to exactly what is happening or how it affects different groups of property owners, one thing is clear; this sudden attention on a simple planning document, currently going through its initial stages of approval in the townhall of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, has got many people interested in the local municipal politics of this otherwise tranquil holiday destination, and in particular focused their minds, and their fears, on what plans for the future the town council are trying to get rubber stamped.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Elected councillors, from the top down, have been taken somewhat by surprise not only by the amount of interest generated, but also some of the allegations being levied against them by a population usually more-than-happy to remain fairly uninvolved in local politics. Though it may be unfair to suggest that the townhall have misled people, it is self-evident that a lot of residents and smallholders are now very concerned about the contents of a standard document, otherwise outlining road maintenance, cycle paths and pedestrian walkways, that would usually pass without the raising of an eyebrow.

Of course a significant part of the issue here is the fact that many foreign residents spend no time whatsoever concerning themselves with the points of view expressed within the Canary Islands three tier political system.

THE POWER OF A CAN-DO ATTITUDE IS AWAKENING

All across the Canarian press recently (on radio, TV and on social networks) activists, home owners, politicians, lawyers, estate agents, business representatives and many others have been providing (often confusing) points of view, referring to the new planning legislation that is intended for the tourist zones of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, currently seeking initial public approval at local level. Similar moves are, accrding to sources, planned for Mogán, further along the coast.

Many opponents say that the latest general planning document, known as the PGOU, will provide a framework under which landlords can be forced to yield to “approved”, licensed tourism operators under conditions, say campaigners, where the owners have almost no rights. Only one official operator is to be allowed in any one complex, with the agreement of at least 50% of the owners. The question is: “Who?”

communities to build up in what was otherwise only meant to be for tourist use.

One tourism business association has conversely applauded the moves, saying that their legitimate and licensed business has The President of the Autonomous Government, the President for too long been threatened by of the Cabildo and the Mayor of undeclared and unlicensed tourSan Bartolomé have found them- ism rentals, by owners who often don’t even live in the canary isselves passing this political hot potato around for several weeks, lands, and who unfairly compete from afar without ever having each claiming various limits to to fulfill the same obligations or their competence to deal with maintain standards. the issues.

It’s no wonder that people are up Many stories have emerged of Others have spoken of residential rogue operators in the past hav- in arms. The issues are complex. use of those properties, originally ing been able to avoid paying due Those affected are estimated to Owners of apartments and bun- intended for tourist use, being rents to owners, simply by filing be more than 17,000 property galows have been made suddenly outlawed completely, with the for bankruptcy, having failed to owners, and with so little inforaware that the Canary Islands potential for heavy fines for any- fulfill their commitments over mation having been around beGovernment, the Cabildo and one found to be disobeying the many months or years with refore the alarm bells started ringthe town hall of San Bartolomé rules. Though laws have been gards to agreed payments, taxes ing, there is panic in the air. plan to formalise rules (that have in place for several years about and maintenance of the proper- The Mayor, Marco Aurelio, holds already existed in some cases for Residential and Tourist usage in ties, leaving the owners to face up his hands saying that on the years) regarding how people can these areas, they have for the huge debts, in which they have part of the town hall nothing use their properties. most part never been enforced, played no part to accumulate. has changed since the original allowing for ‘de facto’ residential

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T he C anary N ews . com Though Extranjeros (foreigners) cannot participate in National elections, they are able to take part in choosing local councils (ayuntamientos) which directly influence the choices of island councils (cabildos) and the regional government of The Canary Islands who are at the core of creating policies like this one.

How can anyone expect a local council to represent their interests, if they do not participate in the selection of representatives? What right have British residents, for instance, in San Bartolomé to call foul, when official figures show that they are a distinct minority (with just over 1000 registered with the townhall, and less than 70 registered to vote!)? This out of an official town population of 52,000, where only 20,000 identify as Spanish nationals.

Whatever the rights and wrongs of this latest episode, one distinct positive is emerging; as people start to educate themselves and take part, so they have started to work together to get the right advice, organise their responses and strategise for the future. Though there are many points of view, some are united.

Though people may not be happy with the law, they are for once trying to take steps to ensure that their rights are represented and protected, along with their properties and in some cases livlihoods. This must be a good thing.

PEOPLE IN THE SOUTH...

1996 planning documents they inherited. He has been quick to point out that not only does his administration have no intentions to ‘expropriate’ people’s properties, and that those who are living in their properties are as safe as they ever were; but, he says, he does not have the power to change the laws of the land, for that citizens must turn to the island council (cabildo) and the regional government.

Rules formally prohibiting the use of the apartments and bungalows as primary residences, under threat of fines ranging from 30,000 euros to 300,000 euros, are however written into the relevant documents with a last resort measure of “owner substitution” also envisaged for extreme cases of when those falling foul of the rules either can’t or won’t pay the fines.

Opposition councillors and residents point out that this town hall has been enumerated by many thousands of people, along with their families, through local taxes, over the course of many years, simply by virtue of having consented to sign them on to the empadronamiento (local municipal register) at these very addressees.

Predictably, questions are being asked as to how they can now contemplate telling those people, both native Canarians and foreign residents, that they are breaking the law by continuing to live at these properties, where many have raised children and in a lot of cases have no where else to go.

Simply put, they probably cannot.

It may take people-power to point that out however...you need to act now. Edward Timon - Editor

An online petition has been started requesting the government address this issue with “A Model for Intelligent Tourism Renewal on Gran Canaria” you can sign it by going to the link below:

http://is.gd/TourismLawPetition

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

What is the recently famous “PGOU” of San Bartolomé de Tirajana and how may it affect my property in Playa del Inglés?

By Carlos Bethencourt-Gonzlalez, Spanish Lawyer and Lecturer at the ULPGC

“PGOU” stands for “Plan General de Ordenación Urbana” – or in plain English, the “Urban Development and Regulation Plan” for the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, which includes Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, Sonnenland and Bahía Feliz, among the rest of the areas in which this southern district is divided, and it was recently given final approval last May by the Government of the Canary Islands.

This PGOU (the latest one dated of 1996) intends to regulate the growth of the whole municipality and defines the different possible uses of all properties in it by assigning to each plot of land a specific use : touristic, residential or commercial. The problem arises when this chosen destiny for the plot explicitly excludes any other rather common uses, such as the private use for seasonal stays on the Island, or so called “private touristic rental”, for example.

As a matter of fact, 99% of the area of Playa del Inglés, where many expats enjoy their peaceful lives under the Gran Canaria sun, is solely destined to be part of the regulated touristic offer, and thus to be governed by the touristic laws, which display an array of sanctions for all “offenders” who are not willing to offer their apartments or bungalows to an authorised company to run and commercialize the whole property and its units (or at least 51 % of them), according to

the so called “Principle of Unity of Exploitation in touristic areas”, in the Act on Tourism of the Canary Islands 7/1995.

These sanctions, according to the recently passed Government of the Canary Islands Decree 85/2015 may even include the compulsory auction of a property to the highest bidder (articles 27, 28 and 33 of the Decree 85/2015) in the case of a rebellious owner failing to comply with the exclusive use of their property set forth by the PGOU. Will all properties be affected in the same way by the PGOU? Actually no, but most of all bungalows and apartments in Playa del Inglés, San Agustín or Campo Internacional will be, unless this PGOU is finally amended by both the City Hall and the Government of the Canary Islands.

Why this sudden change of attitude and legislation? As a matter of fact the former PGOU of 1996 already reserved most of the areas for regulated touristic commercialization, ruling out any other uses, such as customary residential use or private tourist rental.

What can you do if you disagree and/or feel affected by this PGOU? The Government of the Canaries has extended a first deadline for all those who may feel affected by this PGOU and wish to present their statements of disagreement (so called “alegaciones”) until Sep. 25th.

For further information contact a reputable legal firm, email info@bethencourt-gonzalez.com.

TOURISM MODEL PLAN

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We asked the professional association of estate agencies Carolina García Chagrin of the Canary Islands, the Asociación Empresarial Canaria de Gestores Inmobiliarios (ACEGI), to give us their analysis and explanation of the recent controversy around the General Town Plan of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, currently in a phase of initial approval and open to objections until the end of September.

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This very complex, and in practice difficult to apply, penalty system is to be interpreted primarily as a “dissuasive” measure to stop the process of “residentialisation” and avoid any further tourist establishments stopping their tourism activity without the proper consultation and agreement. However, under no circumstances can this penalty system affect those complexes who ceased their tourism activity already before the approval of the law and which have thus become residential in The Tourism “model” and policies designed by practice, used as a first or second home by its the Canarian Government in recent years dictate owners, as this explicit ban only came into force that there needs to be a clear separation of in 2013. “residential” and “tourist” use, which should not coexist in the same complex. Also, the In these cases, the law 2/2013 states, in section different areas should be specialized into tourist, 25, that the insular and municipal planning residential or mixed areas, depending on which departments have to analyse the reality of is the existent predominant use within each the different areas, specialising them into area. “residential” or “tourist” use, and that those complexes that in practice have a residential Residential use is considered to be a threat for use, but are in an area specialised as for “tourist tourism particularly if/when: use” in the new planning documents, should be a) Tourist apartments are used by permanent considered as “consolidated” ie. they may keep residents, families etc. for which neither the their residential use, and must only adapt to buildings nor the city infrastructure (schools, the tourist use established for the area in case parks, medical facilities) were designed; and of a future demolition and redevelopment of because in the past this has often meant the property (as publicly stated by a Canarian poorer maintenance of the building, affecting Government representative in La Provincia, its external appearance, thus making the 20th of August 2015). This “consolidation” whole area less attractive as a tourist automatically releases those complexes from the destination. penalty system established in Law 2/2013. and/or The problem in San Bartolomé de Tirajana is b) Owners of privately used apartments start that, either the new municipal General Plan, or to rent them out and become competition eventually the insular plans previously approved for the legally established aparthotels, which by the Cabildo (island government) which are are very strictly regulated and must meet the basis for the municipal General Plan, have many requirements and provide services failed to comply with these principles of the that private owners “in the shadows” do not Law 2/2013 regarding the “consolidation” of need to fulfill, thus competing on an unequal the existing uses, so the General Plan simply footing. specializes most areas into “tourist use” without In this context, the Canarian Government recognizing the “consolidation” of the actual approved the “Tourism Renovation and residential use that many complexes have. This Modernisation” Law 2/2013 in May 2013, affects areas like Campo Internacional, San one of its purposes being to stop the Agustín, Playa del Inglés. “residentialisation” that has progressively It is therefore important that complexes in this evolved over many years in the tourism zones, situation file their objections, disclosing and and where possible to “revert” to the original showing proof of their actual residential use; planned usage. This aim needs to be understood applying for the “consolidation” of their rights. as a long-term goal.

The ACEGI recommends owners of properties Residential use of complexes that were originally in that situation contact their community of conceived and built as tourist complexes is thus owners (communidad) and enquire whether any expressly forbidden (§ 23). One of the measures steps are being taken, and if not, propose them. provided for in the law, in order to reinforce Being aware of the uncertainty and insecurity this prohibition, is a very strict penalty system, that the Law 2/2013 could potentially developed in detail in Decree 85/2015, from 14th generate, the ACEGI filed objections to the of May, according to which the complexes which decree regulating that law before its approval, were originally designated as, but which are not proposing a more specifiic description of the being operated as, tourist establishments, may “consolidation” status of the complexes that be asked to restart the tourism activity they were do have a “de facto” residential use and more designed for and adapt to the corresponding specific guidelines for the island and municipal requirements (mainly technical and aesthetic). town planning instruments regarding how and If the community of owners does not fulfill the when they should recognize this “consolidation” request, there could be economic sanctions, status. We’re sure most of the present and in extreme cases of further non-compliance uncertainty and alarmism could have been a process of “owner substitution” is foreseen saved if the Decree had included some of our within the regulations. proposals. The ACEGI will continue to be active in this very complex matter, which affects the

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real estate sector and many of our clients, with constructive proposals aside from the political confrontation that has been generated.

For complexes that are still operated as tourist establishments, or for those who decide to restart tourist activity and adapt to the tourist use, if established in the new General Plan, it is important to clarify that the private use of individual units by their owners is not ruled out, namely because the Tourism Regulation Act 7/1995 and its additional provision in Law 5/1999 that applies to tourist establishments licensed before 1999 (in practice most of the existing tourist complexes) provides the following: “a tourist establishment is to be operated by one single authorised tourism operator, who needs to have an agreement with more than 50% of the units of the complex.”

The remaining 49% are therefore allowed, by law, not to partake in the tourism activity. While it is not explicitly set out what these units can be used for, traditionally it has always been tolerated that they be used as permanent or second residences, but not for private tourist rental, as this is allowed only through the tourism operator.

The Law 2/2013 prohibits, for the first time, “residential” use, but the possibility remains for the owner ‘s private use as a holiday apartment.

Finally, if the majority of the owners do not wish an external company to operate the complex and run the tourist activity, they can also undertake this as a community of owners, i.e. the community would register as the holder of the tourism license, being able to regulate the internal organization with larger flexibility regarding the holiday lettings, private use by the owners etc.

As all the controversy and confusion has revealed, this is a very complex context and it is not possible to include general recommendations in a single article. For investors interested in purchasing a property in tourist areas, it is important to choose an estate agent that is familiar with the many regulations involved, who will be able to inform you of the exact situation affecting each particular area or property, and whether a property is suitable for the use you intend to make of it (whether that be own use or investment, residential or holiday use etc).

ACEGI has been offering its members information and regular updates on this matter ever since the approval of the Law 2/2013 and will continue to do so.

Carolina García Chagrin, Board Member of

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

THE NEE

Terms & Conditions apply: Racing Federation rules stipulate that personal indemnity & insurance is obligatory before being able to enter the pit area or drive our racing cars. Available onsite for €20 and valid for the whole day. Contact us for more info.

Most people don’t realise that Maspalomas boasts the only actual motor racing track in The Canary Islands. Though it has been the venue, on occasion, for motorcycle racing, rally qualifiers and other novelty events, for the most part it has remained a fairly well kept secret and hardly used at all.

Enter SuperCarEspaña, the adrenelain experts.

Having run various kinds of UK motorsport events over the last 20 years, and gained notoriety providing corporate experiences to global execs in need of a thrill, they have met with real success on mainland Spain offering enthusiasts, and novices, the chance of a life time to drive their world beating collection of super charged, top of the range racing cars and luxury toys for boys and girls who like it fast.

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ED FOR SPEED And we do mean fast. Now it is possible you will have seen the odd Lamborghini or Ferrari here on Gran Canaria, some are even offered to tourists to drive, for a price. However most will have probably figured out that to pay a fee simply to take this type of machine down a motorway is likely to feel like a bit of a waste.

When John McCrae and his team realised there was a track here on the islands they leapt at the opportunity to offer their wide range of precision engineered cars to anyone capable of driving these rolling-works-of-art like they were designed to be driven. Very, very fast.

With more than 50 cars at their disposal, and highly trained racing drivers available to teach advanced driving skills, SuperCarEspaña are the only outfit able to offer you this kind of thrill.

Whether you just want to try your first taste of a hot-lap in an high-octane ariel atom, driven by a racing professional, or you want to learn to corner like Nigel Mansell; if you’re looking to upgrade your understanding of g-forces on the road, or simply want to finally know what it’s like to put the pedal to the metal and whizz round a professional track in the car of your dreams; SuperCarEspaña has got everything you need for the ride of a lifetime, in some of the most perfect driving machines ever created. What’s more, they love their job, we’re sure you will too!

Open Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays a short 10min drive from the main hotels and resorts, never before have you had an opportunity like this to take perfection for a spin, and learn to drive the ultimate experience on tarmac...

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HOSPITAL SAN ROQUE The English Newspaper

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Hospital San Roque Maspalomas is located right by the largest tourist area in the south, Maspalomas-Meloneras. The centre provides services both to the native Spanish and foreign resident population, as well as to holidaymakers and visitors.

Successfully founded with government funding in 2006, supplemental private funding and expertise from the prestigious Clinica San Roque in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria made the hospital a reality. It has become a reference health centre for both local and international patients who live in the south of Gran Canaria, uniquely catering to both national health and private clients, with a full array of services and complimentary treatments, diagnostic facilities and surgical provisions.

Hospital San Roque Maspalomas plays an important role in Canarian healthcare and welfare, as a semi-state-hospital in the south of Gran Canaria, supplemented through private investment, it is comparable with many of the most reputable, specialised hospitals anywhere in Europe and is equipped with the very best technologies using the latest techniques.

Its services and care are carried out by highly qualified doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, facilitating excellent treatment in all departments, with a minimum of fuss or waiting times. They care about your well-being, and it shows.

The hospital has a joint agreement with the Canarian Healthcare System, which allows them to work as part of the public health st private hospital service, as well as being able to cater to private VIP clients.

e Canary Islands

the Spanish healthcare system)

24 hours

Emergency Service Hotel Medical Attention Interpreter Service Travel Insurances accepted. We are the only private hospital on Gran Canaria where the E11 European Health Insurance Card is accepted.

All medical and surgical specialities, General and Digestive Surgery, Dermatology, Neurology, Traumatology, Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Gynecology, Hemodialysis, Ophthalmology, Pediatrics, Rehabilitation, Rheumatology, Aesthetic Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Radiology Service, Urology, etc.

928 063 666

www.hospitalessanroque.com

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More than 200 staff members help ensure the very best care for patients. The outstanding facilities available include 25.000 m2 of hospital grounds/15.000 m2 hospitals buildings, 8 emergency units, 1 CPR unit/cardiac arrest, 10 admission beds in the Emergency Department, 8 special care beds, 6 operating theatres, 10 haemodialysis machines, 149 Hospital beds, 31 single rooms, 54 double rooms, 13 high standard rooms, 2 Junior Suites, 1 Royal Suite, 200 parking spaces, 24hour security, a cafeteria, air-conditioning throughout, Wi-fi, VIP waiting rooms, 24 hour translation and interpreting services as well as being able to offer 24-hour Medical Care to hotels throughout the area.

In the last 2 years Hospitales San Roque have attended to almost 15.000 foreign patients of which 34,82% were Germans, 17,76% were from Scandinavian countries, 14,27% from the UK, 6,06% from the Netherlands and 27,08% from elsewhere in the world.

Over the last year Hospitales San Roque have received more than 400,000 patients, dealt with more than 70,000 urgencias/ emergencies and carried out almost 155,000 medical consultations, as well as having performed more than 12.000 surgical interventions and made around 300.000 diagnosis tests They have all the medical and surgical specialities that you may need, with cutting edge technology on a par with Europe’s best major hospitals as well as being the only private hospital on Gran Canaria to accept the E111 European Health Insurance Card.

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

For all your Printin g and Design Needs

Large & Small Format Printing & Lamination

Business Cards, Posters, Banners, Flyers, Menus, Roll ups, Vinyls, CD & DVD’s, Stamps, Etc. Good Prices & Quick Service 928 767 927 Open Monday To Friday 1pm Till 6pm 677 807 300 www.theprintshopgc.com theprintshopgc@yahoo.com C.C.Euro Center 37,San Fernando,35100

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Let’s do something amazing!

You are invited to join us at the new Mirador viewpoint over the Dunes, at the Riu Palace Hotel Maspalomas on October 2nd to welcome the participants of The Long Walk 2015 as they arrive at around sunset to complete the last 1.5km of their journey to the Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse by candle light.

To start International Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October) a small team of adventurers have committed to walking coast-to-coast, from Agaete in the north to Maspalomas in the south, over the highest point on Gran Canaria. A 3 day walk of solidarity, covering more than 75 km of rough terrain, to highlight the fight against breast cancer, and to raise funds and awareness for local breast cancer association ACCM. On the last day The Long Walk will be joined by more than 70 holiday reps who work here on the island who have volunteered to walk the last 20km from the heights of Pedro Afonso to the Dunes of Maspalomas.

To support the effort these reps,

along with many others who live and work here, primarily in the tourism industry, have been collecting donations and selling tickets for a TUI prize draw which will be held that evening at The 19th Hole, Meloneras.

Top prizes include several hotel stays for 2, dinner shows and spa experiences donated by some of those working with TUI and the star prize of a cruise for 2 on the Thomson Celebration this coming December.

We would like to invite anyone who wishes to support the event to get as many as they can, wearing bright PINK, to meet us at the RIU Palace Hotel, in Playa del InglĂŠs, cheer us in and walk with us on the last symbolic leg to the Faro de Maspalomas and the grand prize draw. Bring torches and smiles.

For more information or to donate please visit our website on:

TheLongWalk.es

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Enduria Travel Shop is headed up by successful business woman Shirley Macdonald. She and her team got together last year to hold the first Caminata contra el Cáncer de Mama in Maspalomas. The event was a resounding success gathering more than 300 walkers and supporters.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

“I initially spoke to a few friends and suggested we get together to raise some money for the Canarian Breast & Gynaecological Cancer Charity,” she said “it’s a cause I feel passionately about having had my own experiences with cancer. The outcome was more than I could have ever hoped for. To see so many people, of all ages, some of whom are currently battling cancer, take to the streets, was a very humbling experience. And one which Enduria Travel and I are very proud of and keen to repeat.”

Shirley and the Enduria team are organising their second walk for October 17th, and has promised to join in with the last leg of The Long Walk too, on October 2nd.

What’s more she has agreed to give us an exclusive interview about her experiences, which we will publish in the October edition, as well as having offered a prize holiday from Enduria’s selection of top class Canary Islands resorts. WHAT AN AMAZING LADY! See you in the Dunes!

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

PARADOR CRUZ DE TEJEDA

Those who seek something more than simple packaged sun, sea and beach resorts can, unkown to most, find themselves instead in the natural paradise at the heart of Gran Canaria’s lush mountain forests, where an outstanding spa offers the unique experience of swimming out amoung the pine trees themselves.

Within this rustic idyll, boasting views of cliffs and ravines overlooking the ocean, sits the charming and tranquil Parador de Cruz de Tejeda.

This world class country hotel, just 35 kilometers inland from Las Palmas, is infused with a serene rustic charm at more than 1,500 meters above sea level, where the majority of the ancient Royal Paths (Caminos Reales) that crisscross this subtropical island continue to bear the footprints of walkers down the centuries.

The Bentayga Archaeological Park is an ecomuseum and interpretive center for the surrounding archaeological wonders including the gigantic Bentayga rock formation, the Andén de Tabacalete, Cuevas del Rey and El Roquete.

The Abraham Cárdenes Sculpture Museum exhibits works by this important Canary Islands sculptor, originally from Tejeda and a lover of his homeland.

Down in the town wild bushes fill the air with ancestral perfumes. Round, small, emerald green and yellow. Beaconing you deeper toward understanding the importance of the medicinal traditions of the the people and the local flora. There is a Medicinal Plant Centre, which invites you to discover the plants, herbs and flower varieties native to Tejeda and the island.

Dreamlike rooms present unparrallelled views of the immense caldera in all its glory, carved out by water over millions of years, sunken by volcanoes.

The Parador de Cruz de Tejeda offers a sensational, relaxing experience from which you can explore the real island delights and a variety of beautiful landscapes in some of the most outstanding unspoiled natural settings to be found anywhere in the world.

The picturesqe little town of Tejeda, famed for its sweet almonds and colourful spring blossoms, is just 9 kilometers away and is a must-see if you want to explore the island’s archaeological heritage. There you will find vestiges of cave burials, paintings and houses. With its torrid rock formations thrown violently up from the earth’s core, the Spanish writer and philosopher Miguel de Unamuno described the surrounding scenery as resembling a “petrified storm”.

The restaurant prides itself on exquisite regional cuisine, including emblematic dishes such as kid goat with almonds, watercress stew, conejo al salmorejo (rabbit in garlic, pepper and paprika marinade), papas arrugadas con mojos (boiled potatoes with dipping sauces), bienmesabe (an egg yolk and almond dessert) and delicious cheeses from Tejeda. Local ingredients offer their most authentic flavors, all prepared with great expertise.

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The Parador’s guest lounge, with two magnificent fireplaces, offers the homely feel of an old country house and the spa is replete with a wide range of treatments and services to melt away worldly tensions and rejuvinate the mind, body and soul.

The centre of the island, where the Parador is located, is rarely experienced by package tourists, except perhaps fleetingly. The surrounding caves and precipices score the sides of this ancient volcanic crater, marking the turns and the tricky ribbon traces of the few quiet roads that lead between the small mountain villages.

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the area and the nearby towns, belieing the importance of the natural environment in the culture and the survival of the Canarian people. Shepherds, country folk, muleteers and and even coal workers all took advantage of these natural resources, with their legacy still evident to this day.

Recently voted the best Parador in all Spain this Gran Canaria gem is one of 94 such delightful places to stay around the country. Paradores are surrounded by extraordinary natural landscapes or situated in the most beautiful historic areas. The others, housed in palaces, former convents and monasteries, medieval castles or buildings of great historical value From there Teide, the highest peak in Spain, is visible above the essentially preserve much history through antiques, tapestries, seas of clouds that are shaped by the prevailing trade winds as paintings or rugs that are true works of art. A Parador is much they wrap themselves around the north of the islands before more than a hotel...a Parador combines all the charm of the spinning out to reform over the ocean. past with the comfort and quality of the modern services we Roque Nublo, a spectacular stone monolith visible from expect today. everywhere around it, is clearly silhouetted by the clear blue The Parador Cruz de Tejeda is located between two of the skies that dominate at these heights. island’s natural reserves: Nublo Rural Park and the protected The Parador Cruz de Tejeda was built in 1937, as a hostel and landscape of the Cumbres (Summits). inaugurated by Carrero Blanco, one of the men most trusted by 34 km from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on the GC-15/C-811 Generalisimo Franco. The architecture of the building has not highway via San Mateo, and 45 km from Playa del Inglés. changed significantly since then.

MORE INFORMATION It takes its name from the huge stone cross, that stands by Cruz de Tejeda, s/n 35328 Tejeda Las Palmas the road outside its walls, which from ancient times marked (erroneously) the centre of the island. +34 928012500 Reeds, underground waters, caves, lagoons and cliffs surround cruztejeda@parador.es

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GRAN CANARIA WALKING FESTIVAL 2015

Gran Canaria Walking Festival 2015, now in its 4th year, is offering 5 amazing guided trekking routes which will pass through the heart of the island.

As well as walking through unique panoramas with the most incredible views, this growing event gives participants the most unique opportunity to discover the local people and traditional cultural legacies in a way it simply is not possible

WINE & WATER ROUTE

Starting near the highest point on the island, at 1,920m above sea level, Pozo de los CanĂłnigos is the starting point on this easy beginners route. Following the Camino de 7 Fuentes, so called because it runs along the 7 main natural water springs from where part of the island still to this day gets its water supplies.

If you are into wine, this is the route for you, as you will be able to marvel at one of the most important ecological wine production sites on the island, while having a taste or two.

You will be able to learn about the Pozos de las Nieves, meaning snow wells, where snow was once stored before being moved down to the capital for various different uses.

A welcome drink in the stunning Hotel Rural Las Calas is included in the ticket price as is lunch all for just 35â‚Ź.

(Residents Discounts Available)

to do by vehicle or any other means of transport. This is your chance to step into a postcard and enjoy pure nature.

Various route levels from introductory level to advanced ensure that no-one is left out of this extraordinary experience.

Local guides will lead walkers on each route throughout the whole event, each one of them fluent in two or more languages, including English and Spanish.

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WALKING THE WALK 2015

The road emerges under the steps of the one who walks

Trainer, nutritionist, psychologist and fitness model; meet the young, ambitious and talented Lilly Rikhter. She won wide acclaim in her mother Russia from promoting the idea that with her fitness techniques, and in just a short time, she can make the perfect body of any build.

Success is simply a matter of attitude.

Her recipe: if you want to have the figure of a Beauty Queen - forget about fast food. Diet and exercise with Lilly’s proven methods.

“Nothing is impossible” says Lilly “There are no ugly people - just lazy people”.

Most who are aware of her don’t know that Lilly - now a Russian Champion Thai boxer and powerlifter, winner of the 2015 “Fitness psychology” award, and torchbearer in the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games - as a child was a frail and sickly girl, suffering with a debilitating mixture of heart disease, irreversible spinal issues, joint problems and a weakened immune system. Fate, it seems, gives everything to some from birth, and others must make a lot of effort to correct the “mistakes of nature.” The story of this girl proves that you can improve yourself, you can change your life and go all the way in spite of the circumstances you start in.

Today, Lilly works with well-known show business people in Russia and throughout Europe; performers, producers, business people, men, women, and children of all ages.

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Lilly has hooked up with us here at The Canary to offer some tips on how best to cope with obstacles and what you need to start changing lives... your life and the lives of those around you.

If you want to change the world, you have to start with yourself. Become the person you would most like to be. Do what brings you pleasure, but do not stop there; love, sincerely love life.

Train your body and be eager to learn.

Only the unification of “form and content” will make you truly interesting and successful.

Everything in life is interconnected. But a positive attitude, determination and hard work can make even people with disabilities - famous, rich and happy! And this is in fact proven time and time again.

Paraolympians from around the world and even the most ordinary people show that each of us is capable of extraordinary things.

“It is important to take that first step and not step back.” Lilly tells us with sparkle in her eyes “In my practice, I have met people with deadly diseases, and seen how they can unfold the clock. They can cheat fate and continue to live! Everyone has a chance, everyone has this ability. And you do not need to torture yourself with hunger or live in the gym. Start simple! Daily walks and stretching to improve mobility of joints. A gradual increase in walking time - and you will start to see positive results very soon.

The road emerges under the steps of the one who walks.”

Good luck!

C Me Online Limited is a multi award-winning, Web Design, Development & full services agency. With clients throughout the UK, Ireland and Gran Canaria, we specialise in multi-lingual, restaurant & hospitality web design & eCommerce services - all at competitive rates.

As well as web design, C Me Online also offer TripAdvisor Page/Review Management, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), Social Media Management, and Print & Design services.

CE Ciaran Meagher, visits twice a year and will be in Puerto Rico from October 1st-8th - feel free to Our CEO, contact Ciaran for further information or to arrange a casual appointment to discuss your website or online marketing requirements.

www.c-meonline.com Tel: +34 928 98 79 92 Email: ciaran@c-meonline.com /CMeOnlineWeb

@C_Me_Online

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If you have any questions for Lilly you can reach her here:

Lilly@TheLongWalk.es or call 928 987 952

LillyRikhter.com

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Twitters from the Atlantic

© Barrie Mahoney

WE’RE ALL INCLUSIVE Set yourself free!

The newly elected President of the Canary Islands produced a very good sound bite last week, no doubt knowing that it would go down exceedingly well with most businesses on the island that cater for tourists. Basically, he was saying that hotels that offer all-inclusive deals to their guests are doing a great disservice to the islands. It is one of those sound bites that nearly everyone on the island will have sympathy with, other than the internationally owned hotels and tour companies that sell such deals. It is something that most of us have been saying for years, since the popularity of ‘all-inclusive’ holidays took off.

Essentially, all-inclusive hotel deals do very little to help the local economy. It is true that some of the money paid to hotels finds its way into the pockets of hotel staff, and maybe some local produce. However, the profits are sucked overseas into the companies that own the large hotel chains and do very little to benefit the islands. This is cash that visitors are not spending in local restaurants and bars and, as such, many excellent venues are closing, or are in deep trouble.

From the alternative point of view, I can appreciate that the elderly, and families with children may appreciate the benefits of an all-inclusive deal. Elderly folk, in particular, may not want the bother, or have the energy to find a restaurant in the evening and we all know how quickly kids can run up the bill with ice creams, colas etc. In the ‘Benidorm style’ world, the ‘all-inclusive’ wrist tag means that there are no concerns about unexpected expensive, large restaurant and bar bills; everything is paid for before departure, and visitors can, in theory, arrive without a euro in their pocket for the duration of their holiday.

Many of our friends who stay in hotels on the island do so on a half board or bed and breakfast basis, leaving them free to explore local restaurants in the evening. This offers a choice of local cuisine, variety and an experience that many will see as the point of going on an overseas holiday. Other friends who book an ‘all-inclusive break’ are usually restricted to the time that they can eat, and avoid eating out elsewhere in the evening simply because they have

already paid for it. They also claim “We cannot eat lunch, because we will be eating a big meal this evening, which we have already paid for”. These restrictions tend to take the sparkle and variety out of a holiday, and reduce the flexibility that a holiday should provide. Simply because it is ‘free’ and we can eat and drink as much as we like may not be the best way to enjoy the holiday experience. In their defence, some will say that by eating in their hotel they can be assured of the same quality throughout the holiday. Maybe, but isn’t exploring, making decisions, trying out new things and enjoying different surroundings all part of the holiday experience?

Does collecting almost the same meal from the allinclusive buffet each evening and returning to table 63 offer the same experience?

Despite the disadvantages of going all-inclusive, many local restaurants and bars have their issues too. Irregular pricing, unduly variable food quality and service are all issues that require continual monitoring and correction. We noticed this on our own recent holiday, which was bed and breakfast only; we found great difficulty finding a restaurant that would cater for a specific diet, in our case vegetarian. Despite a good number of restaurants, most were closed on Mondays, either because it was their day off, or closed for a week or two for seasonal holidays. Maybe a little local coordination would have tempted visitors to stay in the town to eat. As a result, we had little alternative but to eat in the hotel on two evenings, since the only option was a long taxi journey to another town to find a restaurant that was open.

Despite the President’s words, it is not a black and white issue. Visitors have the right to spend their hard earned cash as they wish. Local restaurants and bars should play their part, cut out complacency and make every effort to make visitors want to eat in their premises. The successful ones will succeed, and the half-hearted ones will fail. As for holidaymakers, please give local bars and restaurants a chance. Liberate yourself, be brave and throw away that plastic ‘all inclusive’ wristband for a few days. As far as the Canary Islands are concerned, I doubt you will regret it.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper. He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander. com or read his book, ‘Expat Voice’ (ISBN: 9780992767174).

Available in paperback, as well as Kindle, iBooks and Google Play editions. iPhone/iPad and Android Apps: ExpatInfo, CanaryIsle and CanaryGay now available. © Barrie Mahoney

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Great news for couples planning to marry here and great news for Gran Canaria” Permission has been sought for years, both by the tourism sector as well as some municipalities of the Islands.

The new Costas act, according to news reports, could make such events now be possible in certain areas, provided that “they have no negative impact on the public domain”.

To celebrate a wedding on a beach in the Canary Islands would mean needing to apply to the provincial department for demarcation of Costas and the payment of a deposit and a fee for the occupation and utilisation of public property” Bento explained in an audio file released this week.

The Spanish Government’s delegate in the Canary Islands, Maria del Carmen Hernandez Bento, underlined the need to find a balance between such activities and requirements to ensure that the public can freely enjoy the beaches.

Wedding authorizations for a beach wedding would need to have favourable reports from the relevant municipalities and the regional Ministry of Territorial Policy, added Bento.

BEACH WEDDINGS GRAN CANARIA!

There are still a lot of items to clarify, and possibly some bureaucratic red tape but in the very near future we hope to be turning many couples dreams into reality on our beautiful beaches.

Well now you can!

Alternatively, we love to talk weddings, so feel free to contact us for more indepth wedding information.

Want a dream beach wedding in Gran Canaria?

The Government delegate to the Canary Islands has welcomed the idea of weddings on the beaches allowing the islands be sold to tourists as a wedding destination.

Beach weddings have long been a dream on Gran Canaria, that national laws prevented from happening officially.

We have many people enquiring about beach weddings, but until now it simply has not be legally possible, if all goes well we should now be able to offer The Perfect Wedding on the beach in certain areas designated by the local town hall in conjunction with the coastal authorities.

We can help you with all the paperwork process, holding your hand every step of the way, ensuring your wedding planning and wedding day itself is a stressfree and enjoyable day to remember!

Watch this space and we will keep you abreast of all the latest updates.

Bernadette Garside Founder of The Perfect Wedding Company, Gran Canarias Wedding Specialists Tel: 653642208 Email: info@perfectweddingcompany.com or visit my website: www.perfectweddingcompany.com The Perfect Wedding Company

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria shadows.” The Reps opened the scoring and their youthful team looked set to take charge of the game with plenty of pass and movement working well between Wheatley and Espada although the OPCs equalised almost immediately after Caceres’ opener and it became apparent that the Reps not having their first choice goalie would be the undoing of their hard work as the game move on.

OPCs vs Reps Maspalomas first round charity match a success. Rematch planned for Sept 18th at the Arguineguín sports centre pitch.

So far €168 raised for local Breast Cancer Charity ACCM

Two unofficial football teams, made up of workers here on the Isle of Gran Canaria, got a game together over the summer to try and raise a bit of money for The Long Walk charity event in which many of them have agreed to participate at the end of September.

The Anfi OPC All-Stars locked horns with The TUI Rep Selects for their first ever game in this newly formed charity league aimed at friendly football and community action from the grass roots level. Trying to inspire a bit of friendly rivallry and sportsman like behaviour while helping a great cause here on the island.

The game was organised by gentleman’s agreement between OPC man of action,

Trevor Sanderson, and veteran Rep, John Simpson, to get people talking about Breast Cancer and to work together to gain some valuable contributions, in support of the upcoming events at the start of October raising awareness and funds for the Canarian charity association, ACCM. Both teams were hand picked by the boys and all the players chipped in with their own cash to pay for a Maspalomas Campo de Football pitch on which to stage the evening showdown.

As for the game itself the Rep’s John Simpson tells us “We were beaten , bruised and man handled at times by the OPC’s experienced players and often found ourselves chasing

Caceres and Wheatley scored to see the Reps race into a 3-1 lead but the OPCs had other ideas and gained control of the midfield racing suddenly into a 6-3 half time lead. The Reps had lost their shape and constant substitutions did not help as players were out of position and the OPCs always looking to add to their goals, with their bright young winger and target man Sanderson who the Reps did well to control at times.

Wheatley and Caceres scored 2nd half goals and the Reps looked to get close at 9-6 only for the OPC team to show them the mark of experience and have the final say with an injury time goal to put the icing on the cake for this veteran team... The score did not reflect the sportsmanship and high tempo of this game but the second leg on Sept 18th is likely to prove much closer, or so say the Reps.

A fast paced first half saw the lead change hands several times as the experienced OPC vets edged home to win 10-6 at the final whistle.

A great first crowd turned out to support their respective teams, despite a lack of advance information, with high-energy rabble rousing and expert coordination from Satti Kaur having organised prizes from various bars , restaurants and other establishments, including a handsome 100€ donation from Luis Molina of Anfi water sports. Satti, and her sons, sold raffle tickets to the assembled spectators and carried out the prize draw ceremonies after the game. The end figure announced was €169 to be added to The Long Walk fund. Great Work!

A rematch was agreed, with several players committing to take part in The Long Walk and with the second leg of this exciting community action set for mid-september on the Arguineguín sports fields, the Breast Cancer charity funds are expected to swell with more charity prizes and donations being pledged.

The OPCs and Reps will play their second leg at 8.30pm on Friday September 18th, where the plan to collect more funds, sell more tickets and most importantly raise more awareness about the work being done on the island to help breast cancer sufferers and their families.

We know they’d love you to come down, take part and cheer them on. You never know you might win a prize or two yourself.

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GETTING TO GRIPS WITH CANARIAN SPANISH Diego Mesa (Puerto Rico Language Centre)

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A Traditional Romeria

In case you are not familiar with the term ‘romería’, it is a pilgrimage around the streets of the town where the festivity While there are many ‘Romerías’ in different parts of the island in the month is taking place, usually resplendant with of September, in Tejeda, Valsequillo or La carriages filled with typical Canarian Aldea de San Nicolás, the most renowned products and sorrounded by Canarian folk bands and dancers, while attendees often one is in Teror. It takes place on Monday dress in traditional costume. The offerings the 7th of September and Tuesday 8th are then taken to the local church or and these are a bank holiday in Las cathedral to be offered to a patron saint.

Palmas de Gran Canaria.

ZARAPICO Take a look at the following Canarian words: MACHANGUERÍA 1. Medium sized wintering wader which flies regularly over the Cananry Islands. It has a large and curved beak which it uses to catch sea worms, small fish and crabs to feed itself in intertidal zones. Also known as ‘cachimbero’ in some areas of the Canaries.

2. A very talkative person. Eg. La mas chica de mis sobrinas es un zarapico que me vuelve loca la cabeza. - The youngest of my nieces is a chatterbox, she drives me mad

You can enjoy the day not just by visiting the place and meeting people but also because Teror boasts amazing views of the mountains and you will discover the Canarian countryside in a unique way. Its buildings have been kept in very good condition for a very long time without altering the traditional Canarian architecture with their typical wooden balconies and narrow tall entrances.

1.

Funny or grotesque gesture 2.

Futile or informal saying or action which has a tendency to be irritating

3.

Talking or acting childishly The story of Teror starts at the end of the 15th century, when the image of the Virgin Mary appeared on one of the giant old pine trees in the area. It has been the religious centre of the island since then, attracting many of the faithful, who would make pilrimages to Teror in the name of the Virgin. It also grew due to its agricultural importance within the centre of Gran Canaria.

In the early 16th century there was already a chapel in Teror which afterwards would become the place where the image of the Virgin on the pine tree was on display. In 1600 the 2nd Church of Nuestra Señora del Pino was constructed. 1607 marks the first time the statue was taken down to Las Palmas, as it is now every year just before the festivities of the ‘romería de Teror’. The 3rd Church of Ntra. Sra. del Pno was constructed in 1767.

It was during the 18th Century that Teror boomed as the number of its inhabitants grew. The new found cult given to the ‘Virgen del Pino’ as well as its economic and urban development, attracted many of the wealthiest and most important families of the time on the island. They contributed through their economic power and social standing to develop the area architecturally as well as socially. During this time many people from Teror emigrated to America searching for wealth as it was the case of Bernardo Rodriguez del Toro, the first marquis Del Toro.

In the 19th and 20th Centruries Teror kept growing economically and the Town Hall weilded political and economic power to rival the Cabildo de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria who ruled the rest of the island.

The Puente de Molino, built in the 1820s on what is now the road between Teror and Las Palmas, is the oldest preserved bridge on the island and marked an important connection to the capital which directly led to the construction of the road itself some years later.

The virgen was crowned in 1905 tunder canon law as patron of Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands.

To this day many entrepreneurs and business people live there, and many hikers pass through on their way to the old mountain trials. On Sundays you can enjoy a great day out visiting this picturesque town and sample the cheese bread and olive market among other many items for sale.

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Language Lesson #95

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

with Theresa Coe

‘BACK TO BASICS - PART 2: DOUBLE THE ACTION Verbs or action words are easier to express in Spanish if we stick two together. This is a great way to get you speaking without much studying needed. You just learn a few key verbs to go first then add a full (‘infinitive’) one after. For example, yo quiero means ‘I want’ so you can say things like: yo quiero aprender – I want to learn, or yo quiero pagar – I want to pay.

TOP TWENTY VERBS You don´t need much vocab to get by - so long as you learn ‘high frequency’ words that you can use over and over. All action words, in their original form, end in –ar (the most common way), -er or –ir. Remember to stress the last syllable with ALL original-form verbs. Here are my top 20:

ENDING WITH –AR: hablar (ab-LAR; to speak) estar (to be; for location and temporary stuff) pagar (to pay) comprar (to buy) visitar (to visit) quedar (keh-DAR; to meet up) dar (to give) ayudar (to help) mirar (to look at – think of looking in a mirror) trabajar (trah-bah-HAR; to work) estudiar (es-too-dee-AR; to study) caminar (to walk)

ENDING WITH –IR: Ir (ear – to go) Salir (sa-LEAR; to go out or to leave) Venir (to come)

THE ONES THAT GO FIRST Learn the endings for these three key verbs : QUERER (to want), NECESITAR (to need), and PODER (to be able to/can): TO WANT TO NEED TO BE ABLE TO (CAN) yo (I) quiero [kee-AIR-roh] necesito [neh-seh-SEE-toh] puedo [PWEH-doh] tú (you, informal) quieres [kee-AIR-res] necesitas [neh-seh-SEE-tas] puedes [PWEH-des] él/ella/eso (he/she/it) quiere [kee-AIR-reh] necesita [neh-seh-SEE-tah] puede [PWEH-deh] ellos/ellas (they) quieren [kee-AIR-ren] necesitan [neh-seh-SEE-tan] pueden [PWEH-den] nosotros (we) queremos [keh-REH-mos] necesitamos [neh-seh-see-TAH-mos] podemos [pohDEH-mos]

ENDING WITH –ER: Note that the verb endings for USTED (‘you’, singular hacer (a-SAIR; to do or to make) comer/beber (coh-MAIR/beh-BAIR; to eat/to drink) tener (teh-NAIR; to have) ver (vair; to see/watch) aprender (to learn)

and formal) are the same as those for he/she/it, while USTEDES (you, plural) takes the same endings as for ‘they’. With NOSOTROS, any irregular verb goes back to normal – you drop the last two letters of the original verb, then add –amos, -emos or –imos.

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Free! The Gran Canaria Language exchange LET´S GET TOGETHER 1,500 people take part in language Once you know the verb endings, you’re allowed to leave out the subject, so it´s fine to say: ¿quieres salir luego?

(Do you want to go out later?) without including ‘tú’ it´s up to you. ¿puedes ayudar/me? Can you help me?

No quieren comer mucho. They don´t want to eat much.

Necesitamos ir al banco. We need to go to the bank (a+el becomes al because it sounds better).

exchange gatherings and conversation clubs around the island. – English speakers always welcome and a great way to meet local people. We meet weekly in Playa del Inglés, San Fernando, Vecindario Arguineguin, Agüimes Las Palmas, Telde and Arucas.

GOOD TO GO To find out more, check out: Other handy verbs to learn as you can put them first include the following: Ir: voy, vas, va, vamos, van (I´m going, you´re going, he/ she/it´s going, we´re going, they´re going). Then you add ‘a’ meaning ‘to’ and you´ve got the future tense: e.g. voy a comprar el vino – I´m going to buy the wine ¿Vas a venir? - Are you going to come?

Vamos a estar en el pub (‘poob’)– we´re going to be in the pub Gustar: me gusta, te gusta, le gusta, nos gusta, les gusta (I like, you like, he/she likes, we like, they like) e.g.

Me gusta caminar – I like to walk; ¿te gusta la carne? do you like (the) meat? No nos gusta el calor – we don´t like the heat.

If you add ´ía’ on the end of the original full verb, it means would – for example: me gustaría ayudar – I would like to help; le gustaría trabajar – he would like to work. This is softer and less direct than using querer (to want).

Soler: suelo, sueles, suele, suelen, solemos (I usually, you usually, he/she/it usually, they usually, we usually) This doesn´t exist as a verb in English but does in Spanish so handy for verb combining, e.g. suelo comer a las ocho – I usually eat at 8 o´clock; solemos quedar en el Yumbo – we usually meet up in the Yumbo centre.

For more on verb combining see lesson 45

Great online translator The dictionary/translator: www.spanishdict.com has a speaker button that allows you to hear how words and phrases should be pronounced

Facebook.com/LEGintercambio or email me theresacoe@gmail.com

For info about Spanish classes, the language exchange or to receive past lessons from this newspaper, just drop me an email.

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News, Views & Sunshine 10E0dition!

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The crew of the Afrikat are getting ready for The Long Walk once again this year (Sept 30 - Oct 2).

To help boost awareness and raise funds for our local Breast Cancer Charity ACCM they are organising a Charity Cruise onboard their wonderful catamaran on Wednesday 23rd September for more information or to book just call +34 637 56 46 79

Members of GEPAC - The Spanish Group for Cancer Patients

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Outstanding Apartment To Rent

Beautiful 1 bedroom 40m2 apartment, just 60m from the beach promenade in Playa del Inglés. Completely refurbished. Double balcony overlooking the swimming pool.

Flatscreen TV, 4 ring hob + oven, washing machine. Tranquil complex. Long-term rent €750/month all inc.

Call 639 198090

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Send your answers by email to: Quinny@ TheCanaryNews.com, text them to 626 641 537 or call 928 987 952 for your chance to win a day trip for two aboard the amazing Afrikat catamaran, for an all inclusive voyage of discovery in the southern waters of Gran Canaria leaving from Puerto Rico.

All correct answers will be collected together, independently drawn and announced in the next edition Last editions winner is Bárbara Montesdeoca Saavedra, who has won a trip for two on the Afrikat! (subject to availability) 1. What river flows through Glasgow?

6. Which UK football team call Anfield home?

2.The film water ship down was based around a family of which animals?

7. What is the Spanish word for door?

3.Maggie May was a hit for which singer?

4.What is a baby’s dummy called in America?

5.What pastry is traditionally used to make sausage rolls?

8. What two colours are on the Swedish flag?

9. Which country produces Parmesan cheese?

10. Name Spain’s highest mountain:

b.com/ProyectoVecinalDeAlimentosDeMogan A VOLUNTEER FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROJECT FOR FAMILIES IN NEED

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Answers from last edition

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Ans Perro

5. Spanish word for a male dog Ans the Pretenders

Ans Vauxhall

10. Which company makes the Corsa motor car Ans Knots

9. Slip, Reef, Granny, Sheepshank are all types of what

4.Chrissie Hynde was lead singer in which band

8.Who is the longest serving actor in Coronation St

3.Emerald is a shade of which colour

7.Name the capital city of Gran Canaria

2. Which football club play at Goodison Park

6.What was a snickers bar originally called

1.What type of institution is the Bangkok Hilton

Ans Green

Ans Everton Ans Prison

Ans Bill Roache/Ken Barlow Ans Las Palmas Ans Marathon

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