Checking out Artenara

A difficult but beautiful road leads you to the village of Artenara, which is the highest village of the island and also one of the oldest

When we arrived at the mountain village, we saw the Christ statue with widespread arms, which reminded me of the famous Rio de Janeiro figure. From the bottom of the village the statue looked so much smaller.
The road round upwards, the village, many of the homes were caves built into the mountainside.
The main square was easy to find and wander through. We found all the main sights in moments. The village had a lot to offer but compact at the same time. The village church, Iglesia de San Matías, was the prettiest I had seen in Gran Canaria.

   
The weather was cool and we wandered briefly. From Unamuno’s Viewpoint we could see all the important geological moments of the island: the Caldera of Tejada, Roque Bentaiga or Roque Nublo. Even for that short moment, as I gazed out down below, I felt so peaceful.
We climbed to the top of the mountain and starred up the white stone statue called Christ Statue. At the bottom of the hill we looked left and spotted the sign for Restaurante Mirador La Cilla. The cave restaurant with the famous tunnel entrance.

Gran Canaria – A Romantic Escape

With spring and summer weather all year-round Gran Canaria is a great place for couples to unplug and escape from life’s daily pressures.

The south side of the island, where all the resorts are, receives almost permanent sunshine. We stayed in Playa Taurito, a palm lined beach, with a laid vibe and glimmering black sands. The resort is located just off the main highway and handy to day trips around the island.

Our favourite escape was Artenara. Gran Canaria’s highest village, and cave central.  The small municipality houses one fifth of island’s 2000 caves. It should come as no surprise that my favourite restaurant, Restaurant El Morador de la Cilla, is located in a cave

   

The cave restaurant is located at the foot of the town’s most famous attraction, the Jesus statue. After checking out the statue we literally bumped into the entrance of La Cilla.

The island’s most romantic restaurant, offers a unique experience. Entering the eatery, we were plunged into almost total darkness, until our eyes adjusted to the tunnel.
The natural cave light at the end of the tunnel guided us toward the cave terrace with stunning views of mountains and valleys down below.

The restaurant is located within the cave. The island’s mountain location meant we shared with romantic escape with just those brave souls willing to drive the mountain roads.

 

My husband and I ate two different local Canarian lunch specials. We were delighted at the different flavours, and just as pleased to discover the reasonable prices for this unique dining experience.

Artenara is special place to visit, and you can have a romantic experience any time of day, at lunch, or at a moonlight dinner.

Next week I’ll blog about our trip to Artenara.

Gran Canaria’s Little Venice

 

Puerto de Mogán is known as “Venice of the Canaries” or “Little Venice”. It’s a delight to wander through the ancient lanes and tranquil canals. According to the tourist board it is the top three places to visit in Gran Canaria, and one of my top five.

     

Puerto Mogan is one of the most beautiful resorts on the south side of the island. Surrounded by mountains and the clear blue sea, the scenery is breath-taking.

This sunny seaside resort is a popular stop on the coach tours. We managed to avoid the chaos because our hotel, Mogan Princess Beach Resort, offers a free coach ride to Puerto de Mogan every day.

The charm of this historic fishing village is found in the gleaming white buildings, adorned by bougainvilleas, in fifty shades of pinks oranges and reds.

The bridges and canals that lead out to the gorgeous beach, is the reason it’s been nicknamed “Little Venice”.

The sandy beach, a pleasant half-moon shape, attracts both families and couples. Bars, restaurants, and tourist shops line the habour.

Our favourite place to stop and people watch was the ice cream café aptly named La Nostra Venezia. We had a front line view of the harbour and ice cream was well-priced.

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After lunch on the seafront you can delve into Gran Canaria’s historical past at the archealogical ruin called Canada de los Catos.
The charms of lower Puerto de Mogan were just too much to leave, but next trip, I will climb those hills to learn more about its ancient beginnings.

Five Reasons to Choose Gran Canaria

Embraced by the warm winds of Africa the sunny island of Gran Canaria is a welcome holiday destination, summer or winter.

In ancient times, the island chain was often referred to as “the Fortunate Isles” According to greek mythology it was thought that heros and favoured mortals were to be received by the gods into this blissful paradise.

1. Day trip to the Venice of Canary Islands, Puerto Mogan. Spend the morning wandering through the ancient alleyways, with rooftops overflowing with bougainvilleas and, suntan on the beach in the afternoon

2. Enjoy a romantic dinner in a cave restaurant on top of the highest mountain in Gran Canaria.

3. Check out the ancient ruins left by the original settlers of Canary Islands, the Guanches. Gran Canaria has seven archeological digs.

4. Gran Canaria is warm and sunny, all year round. In fact, studies have proven that the island’s capital, Las Palmas, is the city with the best climate in the world.

5. Take a walk along the island’s biggest attraction, the unique Dunes of Maspalomas. Unique in appearance, they look like sandy brown waves rolling in from the Atlantic.

 

 

 

Cactus Garden in Lanzarote

The Cactus Garden (Jardin de Cactus) was our favourite site on our trip around the volcanic island of Lanzarote

Located on the north side of the island, near Guatiza, the garden showcases over 1,400 species of cactus.  I was surprised to see the multitude of shapes and colors of so many varieties.  Everything in the garden was a cactus, even the statue.

The terraced garden was arranged by the island’s favourite son, Cesar Manrique.  The artist cleverly converted a former quarry into one of the island’s hottest attractions.

The black volcanic gravel offered a stunning backdrop to the rainbow of cactus. The quarry shelters these hardy plants from the windy. As we wandered the gardens felt like a cozy sunspot.

The site includes a gift shop, a windmill and a top side café with uninterrupted views.

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The Colors of Lanzarote

This small island of volcanic black, reddish rock, pristine white and petal green villas built on the edge of blue ocean is a visual wonder. From top to bottom, east to west, I warmed to the kaleidoscope of deep beautiful colors.

I enjoyed the spectacular volcanic landscapes of the Timanfaya National Park, the intricate cave formations of Jameos del Aqua, the Cactus Garden and the distinctive wine fields of La Geria.  The depth and beauty of this place held me spellbound for two weeks.

 

 

 

Walking in the Footsteps of Sherlock Holmes

Cloaked in a black suit and a foreboding top hat, this stealth figure looked out of place standing beside the modern Underground Station in London England.

 Feeling no fear I joined the growing crowd of curious onlookers.  “The game is afoot” he announced in a conspiring tone, and turned swiftly. Not bothering to look behind at whom dared to follow the mysterious guide walking in the Footsteps of Sherlock Holmes.

 “What beguiles you to study this mythical detective who has never walked the cobblestoned streets of London?” boomed the guide of London Walks.

 After a hearty laugh at ourselves, we listened as our leader described how the fictional Sherlock Holmes was created by Arthur Conan Doyle. How the famous detective had solved the famous mysteries of the day from his imaginary study at 221B Baker Street.

 Sleuthing through Charing Cross, down dark alleys, past famous London landmarks we followed as close as the crowd allowed. I dare not miss a word this man had to reveal.

 Posed at the entrance to a cold dark alley I closed my eyes for a second, I could almost see the gaslights lining the famous Strand. I felt a sliver of cold fear. Was this how his fictional victims felt as they ran helplessly through London’s dangerous streets?

  “In the Footsteps of Sherlock Holmes ends at the Sherlock Holmes Restaurant and Museum.  A tour of the museum is worth your time and money.

Why is Easyjet UK’s #1 Airline?

EasyJet’s fare prices make them UK’s #1 airline, and we are delighted to fly them year after year.

I automatically check their flights first, because they offer the largest number of flights to the most popular destinations all around Europe. Their fares consistently beat out other chartered airlines flying to the same destination.

Over the years I have found their flights prompt, staff friendly, and seat comfortable. My husband is six feet and we will often choose to upgrade to premium seats. The small charge is worth the guarantee of arriving fresh and eager to enjoy our holiday.

The airline maintains their lowest fares by limited complimentary service.  Meals, drinks and headphone cost extra. Who cares.  I can always pack a chocolate bar.

The website is loaded with great resources. My favourite place to visit is the low fare finder. Each week I can check out which exciting European destination is on sale.  Check out http://www.easyjet.com.

EasyJet also offers complete holiday packages. When in the website, click on the button called “holidays” and you too, will discover, why EasyJet is UK’s #1 Airline.

 

 

London Walks

I’m a historical tourist. I love most things ancient and historical.

 Every year I grab a flight to Europe from Vancouver, and every year I look forward to my next chapter in life’s history book.

 Our journey begins in the historical city of London. Over the years I have found a great walking company that has revealed the history of London, one walk at a time.

 London Walks was founded nearly half a century ago by Keith Baverstock, an Australian. Over the years the walking company has earned the reputation of being the best loved walking tour on the planet.

 To join a walking tour, meet the guide at the pre-arranged London Tube Station (found on website). There is no need to pre-book or pre pay, the walks run rain or shine.  Each tour last approximately two hours and costs $10 British Pound, per adult.

 Over the years I have wandered in Footsteps of Sherlock Holmes. Learned the secrets of St. Paul’s, British Museum, Westminster Abbey, from an expert. Enjoyed the Old Knightsbridge Pub Walk, and late at night, I trembled through the Haunts of Jack the Ripper.

 My most memorable walk was called the Charles Dickens London.  The enthusiasm behind the guide’s words, the purpose in each step she took, the long Victoria dress she wore. I knew even before I started the walk, that I was about to embark on memorable journey that I could cherish forever

 London Walks has so many regular tours I don’t have the space to list them all. Whatever one you choose, the walking experience, will be the highlight of your trip to London.

 Every walk I take reveals a fascinating chapter of London’s history. Every year I can’t wait to consult the walking tour’s website to see where my history lesson will take me.  

If your planning a trip to London, check out their website  http://www.walks.com. 

Snapshot of Crete

Although it could not be more Greek, Crete is a country within a country with its own history, folklore and traditions.

The island was the birthplace of Europe’s oldest civilization, the enigmatic Minoan culture that flourished over 4,000 years ago.

Crete is the largest island in  Greece and the second biggest (after Cyprus) of the East Mediterranean. It lies at the Southern Aegean Sea and at the crossroads of three continents Europe, Asia and Africa.

The island has a population of 600,000. Approximately 42% live in Crete’s main cities and towns whilst 45% live in rural areas

The island stretches for 260km  in length but is only 60 km at the widest point.

Cretans still preserve the bonds with their rich folk traditions and cultural heritage. The Cretan dances, Pentozalis, Haniotikos, Pidihtos, Maleviziotikos etc, are still danced at every opportunity

Unemployment is relatively low on Crete, with a large proportion of its labour force employed in the services sector, notably in occupations related to tourism.

The main sources of wealth in Crete are agriculture and tourism. The cultivation of the olive tree is very important in Crete and excellent virgin olive oil is produced here. Other important products include oranges, grapes and vegetables from greenhouses. Honey, cheese and herbs are of excellent quality also. Finally, big numbers of sheep and goats are raised in Crete.

The traditional time to visit is April to October but the best time to visit is May or June when the weather is not so hot and the sights are not crowed with hoards of tourists.