#tenerife is in the canary islands in Africa

[switchscene]

Watching the Mayday feature length episode about the Tenerife Airport Disaster and I am so sad that all these people are dead except the KLM pilot because he was horribly impatient and probably the reason for the crash, but also Mayday has portrayed him as such an unlikeable ass hole. Like the guy they got for his reenactment is just such a dick

[theroseceleste]

Pilot Miguel - Part 12 - Romantic Getaway

Miguel steals you away to the Canary Islands, specifically to Tenerife. What sort of adventures will you share together?

Buy me a coffee! (And gain access to my discord)

Word count - 3697

Minors DNI

Contains : Mentions of sex, nothing too graphic. Mostly fluff and perhaps a moment of confrontation.

AND - Yes, the photos included are from my trip there. My husband and I took these pictures.

AND- Yes, the spectacle that happened at the end did in fact happen. Probably one of the most amazing things I've seen in my life.

Enjoy! xx

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11

If you enjoy this fic, please consider liking, commenting or re-blogging. Many thanks xx

The summer sun beats down on Playa Paraiso, a south-western part of Tenerife. A large island owned by Spain off of the west coast of Africa. It is just one of seven of the Canary Islands.

You feel like you’re back in paradise with Miguel; you have a sea view from your balcony and palm trees littering the beautiful hotel gardens.

The food is amazing, there’s always a wide variety and the main restaurant has a different theme each night. Peter would be in absolute heaven if he was here, you consider letting him know this place exists.

There’s three swimming pools, tennis courts, an archery range, a large play area for children, a couple of bars, three restaurants, a spa, a pool table and ping pong table too. All spread out over the vast hotel grounds.

Of course Miguel booked an executive room, which is spacious and nicely decorated. You would have been happy having a cheaper room but your boyfriend enjoys the finer things especially when you’re concerned.

When you’re not out and about in the hotel’s public areas, you’re in your room, being fucked by Miguel. You kind of lose your first couple of days of your holiday to mainly sex as you try to get over jet lag - not the worst way to spend time, let’s be honest…

He has taken you in every part of your room. You have a bedroom, living room area and bathroom. If there is a surface he can fuck you on, he’ll use it.

There’s not a time in your life before meeting Miguel that you can recall having so much sex. Never in your life have you met anyone like Miguel too. His strength and stamina blows your mind and so do the orgasms he gives you.

It’s safe to say, you’ll never be satisfied with another man. The way he fills you, the attention he gives you. No sexual request is too much to ask or too taxing on him. He’ll eat you out, suckle on your breasts, fill you with his fingers or rock-hard shaft; he’d even play with your ass if you asked him - but you’re not quite brave enough to go there yet.

You adore his passionate face as he makes love to you, his eyebrows knitting together and slanting downwards as if he’s lost in the moment, pleading with you to let him keep going, desperately promising you more pleasure that he’s sure to deliver on. All the while, you lay underneath him, legs wide apart and taking him exquisitely deep inside.

During the times between passionate lovemaking, there’s the wholesome moments too where you cradle his handsome head against your chest as he rests on you in bed.

Long, tanned fingers dance over your breasts and stomach as he watches your sensitive buds and goosebumps rise to his delicate touch. He fails to resist latching onto one of your erect nipples and sucking on it tenderly as his hand slides down to between your legs as if it has a mind of its own. Starting the heated intimacy all over again.

“I’ve booked us an excursion,” Miguel announces over breakfast before taking a gulp of slightly cooled coffee.

You both eat outside as the warmth of the morning sun embraces your skin.

“Oh? Where are we going?” you ask just before you bite into your sweet pastry.

Tiny finches flit about the dining area. Occasionally, you feel the brush of their wings against your legs as they fly under your table, picking up crumbs of food from the white tiled floor.

“You’ll need something warm to wear because we’re going up Mount Teide this evening.” (Teide rhymes with Lady - if you want to know how to pronounce it)

Miguel gets his phone out to read an email containing the information of the excursion he booked.

“It’ll be a coach tour, but we'll be taken to the observatories up there to watch the sunset, with a glass of champagne in hand.”

You listen intently, watching him smile as he looks exceedingly pleased with himself for booking this for the both of you.

“Aww, that sounds very romantic,” you comment, thinking that is all the excursion consists of.

“That’s not all, chiquita,” he pauses before reading the next bit.

“We’ll be taken to a restaurant up there and be served dinner. Then, once it’s totally dark, we’ll be stargazing.”

Now you know why he said you needed warm clothing. Mountains can get considerably colder than the rest of the land below, especially at night. You won’t freeze at this time of year, but it might not be comfortable.

The trip sounds incredible and romantic. It’ll be nice to get out of the hotel, and going on this excursion sounds perfect.

“I can’t wait to go. Thank you for booking it.”

You flash him an excited smile. This is sure a precious day you’ll commit to your memory and reminisce over in years to come.

“I expect you’ve seen the night sky a lot haven’t you?” you ask Miguel before taking a sip of your orange juice.

He puts his phone down on the table and picks up his cup of coffee again.

“Quite a bit of it, yes,” he replies before taking another gulp.

“What things have you seen up there?”

Your eyes look up at the sky as you ask him, while leaning against the table with your elbows, supporting your head with your hands.

Miguel thinks for a moment to remember what he’s witnessed.

“Plenty of Aurora Borealis or northern lights - whatever you want to call them. And I’ve flown over countless thunderstorms - I’ve even seen sprites.”

He flashes a charming smile as if he knows this will spur an interesting conversation.

“Sprites?” you ask, raising an eyebrow, these are things you’ve never heard of.

An image of a creature from some fantastical world where fairies exist pops into your mind, but surely he doesn’t mean that…

“I don’t know the science behind them,” he begins as he places his empty coffee cup back down on the table.

“They’re largely not very well understood, but they appear high over the top of thunder clouds. Some sort of red electrical discharge up in the earth’s atmosphere. They’re quite beautiful, but surprising to see for the first time. I had no idea they existed before I started flying at higher altitudes.”

You find his flying stories fascinating, but you feel like he’s pulling your leg with this story.

“Oh - whatever,” you reply with a smirk, “are you kidding?”

“I’m not! I swear. Here, I’ll find a video of one, give me a sec...”

Miguel picks up his phone again, but before he can open up Google, his phone buzzes in his hand. A text message from Xina…

“Where are you? You’ve not been home for a few days.”

You notice Miguel’s expression fall when he sees what’s on his screen.

“You okay, Miguel?” you ask as you wonder what he’s seen that’s upset him.

“Uhh, it’s nothing. Just some irritating mail I have to respond to, I’ll find a video in a moment.”

Your lips press into a thin line. He’s lying. You’ve noticed over the last couple of weeks that something has been bothering him.

His thumbs tap against his phone-screen as he types a message back to Xina while he endeavours to keep his cool.

“Over three-thousand miles away from you and having a great time.”

He puts his phone in Do Not Disturb mode and looks for the video to prove the existence of sprites.

Sure enough, they do in fact exist, and they’re stunning - just rare to witness and hard to see with the naked eye. From what you can see in the video, they look like red columns of light with thin tree roots sprouting below them. You consider Miguel lucky to have seen this phenomenon.

The Captain leaves his phone on Do Not Disturb. The silence that follows is bliss - no more irritating buzzes dampening his fun with you.

Sitting at the back of the coach, Miguel stretches his long legs out down the middle. The poor guy has to bend to walk all the way to the back. You’re happy to get the window seat as he sits beside you.

Thankfully the coach isn’t full during the trip and other passengers are situated more towards the front, allowing you to have private conversations without being overheard as the bus weaves its way up the volcano.

A low layer of cloud is now below you, lapping against the slopes of the mountain like a foamy sea. You slide your phone out of your pocket to take a picture of the breath-taking view.

“That’s a great picture,” Miguel compliments you as he leans over, instantly warming you up.

His closeness gives you the opportunity to sneak a kiss, pressing your lips against his cheek. You feel his arms wrap around you, making sure you can’t escape. He needs more of your affection. Soft giggles fill the back of the bus as he nuzzles into you and plants a few tender kisses of his own against your lips and around your beautiful face.

The coach takes what feels like the hundredth turn on the road that snakes its way up the volcano. All you can see for the next few minutes is rock and yellowing grass. It’s clear this part of Tenerife doesn’t get much in the way of wetter weather.

You lean against his chest, as he rests his head against yours, you both sit in silence for a little while, until you decide to confront him about the business with his phone.

“So, are you going to tell me what’s really been going on?”

Miguel’s body stiffens slightly at your question and his arms tighten momentarily. A gentle nuzzle against your head indicates he’s uncomfortable, or feeling unsure about what to say.

“What do you mean?” he asks, but it’s a feeble attempt to pretend to not know what you’re talking about.

“Something’s bothering you on your phone, what is it?”

You re-adjust your head position so you can look up at him while your fingers run over the soft material of his shirt.

He pulls you closer and nuzzles against you more firmly.

“I don’t want to ruin the great time we’re having, baby.”

His hand caresses your cheek before he gives you a soft kiss on your forehead.

“Please tell me.”

Your pleading breaks his resolve. It’s not fair that he’s keeping this from you, but he worries about the impact it will have on you. Eventually he pulls away after steeling himself to admit what’s been happening.

“Remember Xina? The woman who tried to visit the other week?”

You cast your mind back to the mid-length, black haired woman who was standing at his penthouse door when you opened it.

“Yeah?” you reply, raising a curious eyebrow.

The coach’s engine revs louder for a moment as it powers on up a slightly steeper incline.

“She’s my ex-wife.”

Miguel’s voice is quiet, full of concern as to what you’re going to make of this bit of news.

A booming-like feeling thuds in your chest as your heart skips a beat. Your hand takes his, squeezing his fingers slightly.

“What’s she doing visiting you?”

He shrugs and runs his fingers through his hair.

“Trust me, I’m just as surprised as you are. She’s been texting me since that evening, but I’ve been pushing her back every time.”

“Pushing her back? Why? What’s she been saying?” you ask as your eyebrows knit together with growing concern.

Your worried expression breaks Miguel’s heart. If only you know just how upset Xina’s unexpected interference is making him.

“She claims she wants me back, but sweetheart, you have to understand I do not want that.”

He raises your hand to his lips and delivers a tender kiss to your knuckles.

“She had her chance with me - she had it all, but she rejected it. I have the tendency to never revisit old relationships, no matter how important they were to me at the time.”

Miguel then reaches for his phone.

“For complete transparency, look at the messages so you can see that I have no interest.”

You nearly back out of looking at his phone. For some reason, hearing that Xina is pursuing Miguel again hurts you more than you thought it might. The blood in your veins runs cold as he opens up the conversation, but he hesitates as another text comes in. One that he received earlier but the Do Not Disturb feature silenced it.

“Are you with her?”

The text simply reads, however you can’t help but detect the venom behind the last word.

He shows you the whole conversation starting from the night she knocked on his door. You notice Miguel’s attitude towards her in his texts are blunt and to the point. There’s no way his responses could be misconstrued. He’s not interested and that’s that. End of story.

“She hurt me a great deal when she no longer wanted to cooperate with me in keeping our marriage alive. It’s dead in the water now, and there’s no way I’m going to waste my time reviving it on a whim.”

You believe him; the sincerity in his eyes is compelling. You may have only been seeing him for a couple of months but that time has been well spent being up close and personal, getting to know his character.

“I understand,” you tell him, putting on a smile; a brave face in which he notices immediately.

Miguel wraps his arms around you, desperate to reassure you.

“Tu eres todo lo que quiero. Nadie se compara contigo. Nadie importa más que tu.” (You are all that I want. No one else compares to you. No one else matters but you.)

Your recent Spanish lessons on an app on your phone hasn’t quite extended to the level in which he speaks. But you can tell his romantic mutterings are heartfelt as he squeezes you and strokes you with his strong, manly hands.

Surrounded by several buildings belonging to the local observatory, standing tall at the crest of a hill on Mount Teide; you and Miguel clamber down from the coach. It’s quite comical seeing a six-foot-nine-inch man with broad shoulders descend the narrow aisle and steps.

The air is already slightly colder than it is closer to the sea. You suck in air through your teeth as a chilly breeze whips around you. The excursion leader hands a blanket to you and Miguel to wrap around you, before passing you a glass of champagne.

The sky is set alight in a blazing orange as the sun nears its time to vanish below the horizon, drawing another day to a close.

Standing atop the hill, Miguel places his arm around you as you cast your gazes to the west. The bright, orange orb burning brightly in the sky, gradually sinking lower, and lower.

Taking out your phone, you decide to capture the stunning moment that follows.

The bubbly liquid brings a warmth to your insides while Miguel remains by you, holding you close.

“I meant what I said earlier, chiquita. No one else matters but you,” Miguel purrs in your ear.

A sweet smile grows across your face.

“So that’s what you said, huh?”

He chuckles at your response as he realises he said it in a language you didn’t understand.

“Sorry, chiquita. I guess I got carried away with the emotion of the conversation,” Miguel replies and whispers to you exactly what he said to you earlier, giving you further reassurance; making your heart flutter like a butterfly in the breeze.

As the golden disc kisses the horizon, Miguel draws you in closer to press his lips against yours. His blanket wraps around you snugly as well as himself while he has you pressed against his large, muscular frame.

You and Miguel had a delicious meal in the restaurant. There was slight hesitation when he discovered that everyone on the excursion were to share tables, but once the ice was broken between your neighbours, the conversation flowed nicely, while Miguel sat and listened. Once again, he returned to his usual straight-faced demeanour however he toned down the intimidating expression so as to not weird out your fellow excursion companions…

Now, you both are the last to get off the coach as it’s parked up next to a vast plane of an old lava flow from the volcano.

Stars twinkle and planets gleam against the black canvas that is the sky. You don’t think you have ever seen so many stars. Your current location has much less light pollution than you do at home.

The atmosphere and scenery is enchanting. Feeling on top of the world with nothing but dazzling lights blinking millions of lightyears away. The landscape before you makes you feel you could be on a totally different planet.

The tour guide begins his talk about the twinkling display above you. You learn about the differences between planets and stars. How the orbiting worlds in space shine constantly while the incomprehensibly large burning balls of gas sparkle in the night sky.

“There are eighty-eight constellations that can be seen all over the world, but only thirty-six can be seen in the northern hemisphere…” the tour guide starts to explain.

A sharp shiver shoots down your spine as the much cooler air chills you to the bone. You came prepared, but the cold still manages to seep through your multiple layers. In the dark, you hear a zip before feeling a large jacket wrapping around your shoulders.

The tall, dark figure beside you pulls you close, keeping you warm in his embrace as you both listen to the tour guide as he points out the Orion constellation.

Despite being surrounded by a handful of people, looking up into the black, glittering sky, you feel like the only two existing in that moment. You’re transfixed - hypnotised even, as you learn about things far bigger than you, or Miguel. Things even bigger than your planet and it boggles your mind finding out just how small you are in comparison, but that’s not a bad thing. It fascinates you and humbles you.

As the talk continues, you feel gentle kisses against your head and hair. Miguel gives the impression that he’s not exactly listening and is more interested in the attention he’s giving you. Maybe he already knows this stuff? You don’t put it past him.

Back in the coach for the final time as it snakes its way back down Mount Teide, the passengers are quietly conversing with one another.

Looking out of the window, it is almost nothing but the purest of black, apart from the twinkling of golden lights in Playa de las Americas.

The fresh air and the large meal has made you sleepy and your eyelids feel heavier by the minute. That is until something suddenly catches your attention, making you startle and grab Miguel’s hand while your eyes remain fixed on the stunning object that comes into view.

A large entity burning in the earth’s atmosphere, rips across the dark sky. A flaming, orange tail streaks behind it as the front burns a brilliant, electric blue.

“What the hell?” you gasp in pure surprise, turning to face Miguel.

The thing in question disappears as quickly as it came, fizzling out into nothingness over what you assume is the Atlantic Ocean.

“That, (Y/N), was a meteorite.” (Yes this really did happen to me IRL)

Your jaw drops as you look back out of the window, picturing the spectacle in your mind's eye. What a beautiful sight, and simply the perfect ending to an amazing day. You try not to let what Miguel told you earlier affect you. The romantic day you have shared with him has certainly outshone the unpleasant discussion of Xina. And that meteorite will last in your memory until the end of your days.

The last two weeks have flown by and you return home to your apartment. You’re exhausted, but you have a dreamy smile plastered on your face. Your holiday in Tenerife has been an unforgettable experience.

You both did some amazing things, creating many memories that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. Dolphin spotting as the pair of you sat on a catamaran will be forever one of your favourites; watching the joyful creatures rushing alongside the boat, leaping out of the water as the warm sunlight glistens along their backs.

Another memory you’re fond of is when Miguel took you to Siam Park; the biggest water park in Tenerife. Your favourite moment is when the two of you canoodled in the deepest part of the wave pool that released a powerful wall of water every five minutes. The rise and fall of the water almost got the two of you carried away. The temptation to let him slip your bikini bottoms to the side and enter you was overwhelming at one point.

As you enter your home, you’re greeted by Ashley, fretting over a letter that she’s reading in the open plan kitchen. Her fingers run through her hair as her mind races.

Closing the door behind you after dragging the suitcase in, you look concerned at your friend as she reads a letter again.

“What’s up?” you ask as you approach your roommate, trying to peer at what she’s reading.

“I don’t know what we’re going to do.” Ashley’s voice cracks as he shakes her head, the paper in her hands shakes as her hands tremble.

“Ashley, you’re scaring me. What’s wrong?”

Eventually, her gaze rises up to meet yours, tears threaten to well up in her eyes.

“The landlord is pushing our rent up - we can only just afford it as it is (Y/N), I don’t know how we’re going to manage this…”

All of a sudden, the beautiful holiday is sucked out of your mind, lost in the dark vacuum of space as it’s replaced with thoughts about what’s going to happen about your little home that you’ve built with your best friend…

I hope you enjoyed Part 12.

Buy me a coffee! (And gain access to my discord)

Next Chapter >

For proof of the existence of sprites:

If you are interested in commissioning me, please click on the link below to find out more.

If you would like to follow me on Twitter, please click on the link below.

[sissa-arrows]

Historic ramble I suppose but as a historian I do get a bit offended when people refer to Al-Andalus simply as an "Arab kingdom(s)", since many of the previous people there who also invaded the region (such as the Visigoths) did convert to Islam and some retained their positions in power, and many of the "Arab" rulers were actually Imazighen.

It's more accurate to call it an Amazigh ""kingdom(s)"" (DNA research proves that many Portuguese and Spanish, especially those in the south like Algarve and Andalusia, have the most Amazigh ancestors outside of North Africa, which is why they are visually similar to one another and tend to have darker skin). Even more so than the Canary Islands, which were entirely habited by indigenous Imazighen (like the Guanches from Tenerife) prior to Castillian colonization. Which is sad because even if many Canarians today have indigenous Amazigh ancestors they culture has been nearly lost because of genocide (even if many Canarians are trying to reclaim their Amazigh/North African identity, which is a story for another time - and I wonder if you'd be interested in it).

You also mentioned this before I believe!

The way I started reading the first few words and was expecting some history revisionism (that’s usually what I get in my ask box about “Arabs and North Africa”) but I got pleasantly surprised. Cause yup while the conquest itself was done by both Arabs and Imazighen the people who actually mixed with the local and lived in Al Andalus were mostly Imazighen the Arabs left super fast their goal was just spreading Islam.

A southern Portuguese has more Imazighen ancestry than I, an Arabized Algerian, have actual Arab ancestry. The amount is still under 10% (I think it’s 6 or 8 I don’t remember the study exactly) but comparatively they have exactly 0 actual Arab ancestry.

I knew that Canarians were Imazighen (I’m also claiming Sicily by the way) but I didn’t know about the reclaiming of their Imazighen identity it seems really interesting!

[fatehbaz]

Oz Rock bands were big in Brazil in the 1990s. Australian surfers know its breaks. [...] [I]n the past decade [2005-2015] Brazil has had the second fastest rate of migration to Australia [...].

Australia’s connection with Brazil began in 1787 with the First Fleet voyage. This was thanks to the port of Rio’s location in the South Atlantic and a centuries-long British-Portuguese alliance – unique among European powers in the Age of Empires. The First Fleet had three layovers on its relatively cautious eight month voyage from Britain: a week in the Spanish colony of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, a month at Rio in the Portuguese colony of Brazil and a month at the Dutch East India Company’s Cape colony in South Africa. Fleet commander Arthur Phillip had not intended to rest and resupply at Rio but sailing conditions made it prudent to do so. And Phillip’s former service in the Portuguese navy ensured a cordial welcome from Rio’s colonial authorities.  

At this time, as Bruno Carvalho writes in Porous City: A Cultural History of Rio de Janeiro (2013), Rio enjoyed rising status within the Portuguese Empire. In 1763 it had been named the new capital of Brazil. In 1808 Portuguese royals fled to Rio to escape Napoleon and remained there at the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815. As a consequence, Rio could boast of being the only American city to serve as a centre of European power.

One First Fleet official lamented how little the British knew of Rio. This came to be addressed, as Luciana Martins notes in A Bay to be Dreamed Of: British Visions of Rio de Janeiro (2006), as increasing numbers of British visitors ventured there during the 19th century. Visitors included New South Wales Governor Lachlan Macquarie, and later Charles Darwin – along with thousands of convict and free migrants on board ships calling at the port of Rio.

Writing in Connected Worlds: History in Transnational Perspective (2005), Emma Christopher observed that in Australian history books, travel from Britain to Australia seemed to have been “covered as if in the blink of an eye”.

This inspired her to write of the “watery non-places” of the journey not as voids, but rather as places where much transnational history was lived [...].

[J]ournals by intending Australian colonists such as Macquarie’s wife Elizabeth allow glimpses of colonial Rio through colonial Australian eyes. Elizabeth Macquarie assessed Rio with keen intelligence and, more challengingly – as Jane McDermid has argued in recent research on histories of the British abroad – a callously casual racism.

First Fleet journals tell us that, in 1787, convicts confined to ship at Rio witnessed enslaved West Africans rowing Portuguese fruit sellers around the anchored Fleet transports in decoratively festooned boats.

Convicts overheard and exchanged stories from officials permitted shore leave: stories of the songs of captive West Africans awaiting sale at the port marketplace; of colourful Portuguese Catholic institutions and festivities that were exotic to straight-laced British Protestants. Stories of being forbidden, on pain of death, to venture to hinterland jewel mines. Onshore at Rio, colonial migrants bound for Australia befriended Portuguese colonists, despite the language barrier. They purchased curios. They passed judgement – glowing and harsh – on the people of the Portuguese colony, its natural and built environment, just as Brazilians in turn scrutinised them.

---

Text by: Julie McIntyre. “I Go to Rio: Australia’s forgotten history with Brazil.” The Conversation. 16 September 2015. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me.]

[beardedmrbean]

MADRID (AP) — Fourteen workers at one of Spain's main airports for tourists were arrested on suspicion of stealing items from checked-in luggage, police said Friday.

Police seized allegedly stolen items worth almost 2 million euros ($2.2 million), including around 13,000 euros ($14,000) in cash, from the group of employees at the largest airport in Tenerife, in Spain’s Canary Islands, a statement said. Another 20 airport employees are under investigation in the same case.

The Tenerife South airport handles about 11 million passengers a year, most of them European tourists seeking the pleasant climate of the islands off the coast of northwest Africa.

The investigation began after an increase in passenger complaints about items missing from their luggage, the police statement said.

The thefts occurred as baggage was being placed in the aircrafts’ hold, police said. Inside the hold, the alleged thieves forced open suitcases, took out valuables and shut them again.

Authorities seized 29 luxury wristwatches, 120 items of jewelry, 22 high-end cellphones and assorted electronic devices. The suspects had sold many other items online or in local stores, police believe.

[alphaman99]

Wildfires Caused by Arsonists, Not ‘Climate Change’, Say Officials.

Wildfires that have seen 12,000 flee their homes on the Spanish island of Tenerife were started deliberately, officials say – but the press are still hyping climate change as a supposedly contributing factor. Part of the Canary Islands popular with tourists and, increasingly, illegal boat migrants, Tenerife has been gripped by blazes for a week, with Spain’s socialist leader Pedro Sanchez declaring the affected area a “disaster zone”. Fernando Clavijo, the Canaries’ regional president, has confirmed the authorities believe the wildfire was started deliberately, and that at least three lines of investigation have been opened. Nevertheless, much of the establishment media is still seeking to frame the fires as a climate issue, with the Associated Press (AP) insisting lack of rainfall and changing weather patterns have been influenced by climate change. Hot weather is far from uncommon in the Canaries, which lie off the north-west coast of Africa, and they are popular with tourists for precisely that reason.

The National pulse

[fandomshatepeopleofcolor]

Something I rarely see talked about is how the first established European colony is still a colony to this day: the Canary Islands in North Africa.

They were the first “official” colony during the so-called "Discoveries" period. The indigenous Berbers (usually called Guanches, but Guanches were what Berbers who inhabited Tenerife were called) were mostly wiped out by Castilians or forcefully assimilated (Canarians themselves are a mixed ethnic group descendant of the those Berbers + Castillians). They had their own language which was also eradicated, and naturally so was their religion and cultural customs. Many Canarians today don't actually feel Spanish/Castilian but actually identify as North African, and there are several independence movements/groups that use this identity to distance themselves from Spain (with varying degrees of success).

But as we all know, Spain (Castile) doesn’t tolerate any mention of "independence" which they claim goes against the constitution and their precious kingdom. But funny enough the torture and murder of independence activists (just google the state-sponsored assassination attempt on Antonio Cubillo) doesn’t go against the Castilian constitution.

I mean you're preaching to the choir about Spain's bloody history as colonizers lol. Like I actually majored in Spanish language in college and I've read first person accounts of how horrible they are from the Reconquista, the Inquisition and their colonization of the Americas.

I'm gonna have to ask someone to do the googling for us today I'm just overwhelmed with previous commitments rn.

mod ali

[buckthefutcher]

there's a really bad storm here in the uk at the moment and its causing airport chaos but its also very very funny chaos? a flight from manchester to dublin (v. short, 1 hour) took off at 3pm, was in the air trying to land for ages, ended up diverting to paris (?), sat in paris for a few hours and has finally arrived in dublin just before midnight

and now there's a plane from tenerife (canary island, off the coast of africa) to edinburgh that has been diverted to cologne. GERMANY. this plane has had to fly over like 3 other countries to make that diversion

[underzemilkyway]

Spirit of the Volcano - by Francisco Mingorance

Francisco Mingorance's Image

In the end, Francisco had just five minutes to photograph the flowering bugloss with the Milky Way in the position he wanted it.

But he was prepared. He had spent several days walking among the spiky larva environment of Tenerife’s volcanic Teide National Park (the largest and oldest of the Canary Islands’ four national parks) searching for the perfect red bugloss flower spikes. He needed them growing in a position that would allow him to photograph them relative to the movement of the Milky Way. For Francisco, the red bugloss represents the soul of the island. Like many Canary Island plants and animals, which have been isolated from southern Europe and North Africa for millions of years, it is adapted to specific soil and climatic conditions, in this case to the volcanic slopes of Tenerife. Francisco used a long exposure for the stars, a flash to bring out the colour of the flowers and a ground-level viewpoint to emphasise the height of the plants (nearly three metres) against the dramatic night sky.

[mydyspraxiablog]

Story

Dream sometime come ture

Once upon a time in a small village in Wales, there lived a woman named Rosebuda. She was known throughout the village for her kindness and generosity, always willing to help those in need. Rosebuda had always dreamed of winning the postcode lottery, and one day, her dreams came true when she won £30,000.

Excited by her newfound wealth, Rosebuda began to think about what she could do with all that money. At first, she thought about buying a second home in a beautiful location, but she soon realized that £30,000 was not enough to afford her dream home. Instead, she decided to treat her friends to a luxurious cruise around the world.

As Rosebuda and her friends boarded the cruise ship, they were amazed by the luxury and grandeur of the vessel. Rosebuda had never experienced anything like it before, and she felt like a queen as she walked through the halls of the ship. The highlight of the cruise was when Rosebuda discovered that she could afford a cabin with a balcony overlooking the ocean. Without hesitation, she bought two cabins with balconies so that she could share the experience with her friends.

For the next six months, Rosebuda and her friends traveled to exotic locations such as Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Africa, Ethiopia, and Thailand. They soaked up the sun on pristine beaches, explored ancient ruins, and sampled delicious cuisine from around the world. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that Rosebuda would never forget.

When the cruise finally came to an end, Rosebuda returned home to Wales feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. She decided to use the rest of her lottery winnings to buy a beautiful bungalow in Timeland, a picturesque village in Wales. The bungalow was surrounded by lush greenery and had a stunning view of the mountains. It was the perfect place for Rosebuda to relax and unwind after her whirlwind adventure.

Feeling grateful for her good fortune, Rosebuda decided to sponsor a child in need. Before making her decision, she prayed to God for guidance and asked for wisdom in choosing the right child to support. As word of Rosebuda's generosity spread, she began to receive kind remarks and gestures from others in the community.

However, not everyone was happy for Rosebuda's success. Some of her former friends became jealous and resentful, and they began to spread rumors and gossip about her. Despite the negativity, Rosebuda remained true to herself and did not let the opinions of others affect her.

One day, Rosebuda's friends decided to throw her a surprise dance battle with an entertainment team. They knew how much Rosebuda loved to dance, and they wanted to celebrate her success in a fun and memorable way. As the music played and the dancers twirled around her, Rosebuda couldn't help but smile and dance along with them.

In the end, Rosebuda realized that true happiness comes from within and that money cannot buy love and friendship. She had learned valuable lessons along her journey and had grown as a person. With a grateful heart and a renewed sense of purpose, Rosebuda danced into the sunset, ready to face whatever life had in store for her next.

The End

[sandnspice]

Take the Gran Canaria ferry from North Tenerife to Agaete ⛴️ The Gran Canaria ferry from North Tenerife is only marginally cheaper than flying, but handy for visiting Santa Cruz, Agaete or Las Palmos. https://www.sandspice.com/gran-canaria-ferry-from-north-tenerife/ #GranCanaria #Ferry #Tenerife #Agaete #Spain #FredOlsen

[xtruss]

El Hierro: How The Youngest Canary Island Escaped Mass Tourism

While Protests Against Mass Tourism Rage on Neighbouring Islands, El Hierro – The Wildest and Most Westerly of The Canary Islands – Has Quietly Chosen To Do Things Very Differently.

— Sarah Gilbert | Monday 26 August 2024

El Hierro is Located Around 500km Off the West Coast of Africa (Credit: Getty Images)

I had only been hiking for two hours but already I'd passed through a fairy-tale forest of ancient laurels, trunks wrapped in velvety moss and branches dripping with lichen, walked along trails flanked with luxuriant ferns and reached the black ash slopes of a volcanic caldera. Now, before me was yet another scene of jaw-dropping natural beauty: the vast amphitheatre of El Golfo, whose brooding cliffs loomed over a fertile plain and craggy coastline lashed by white-tipped turquoise waves. It was one of the most wild and beautiful places I'd ever seen.

I was in El Hierro, a heart-shaped rock formation off the west coast of Africa that's the youngest, most westerly and second smallest of the Canary Islands. The island emerged from the Atlantic Ocean around 1.2 million years ago following millennia of violent undersea volcanic eruptions, creating a wild landscape of fertile valleys that yield to evergreen forests, sky-high cliffs, volcanic cones and lunar-like badlands.

But what's especially distinctive about this tiny isle is that in a year when protests have raged against mass tourism on neighbouring islands and other regions of Spain, El Hierro has chosen to do things very differently.

El Hierro's population hovers around just 11,000, and its dramatic topography doesn't lend itself to sprawling resorts or skyscrapers. In addition, the island has no direct flights from outside the archipelago, which means it receives only a handful of visitors compared to its neighbours – approximately 20,300 visitors in 2023, while Tenerife, the largest Canary Island, saw more than 6.57 million.

The Island is home to Natural Volcanic Rock Pools protected from the powerful ocean currents (Credit: Getty Images)

During my visit, I zigzagged up and down vertigo-inducing volcanic stone paths and trekked through forests of soaring Canary pines, fields of fiery red poppies and past plots of pineapples. And I crunched over black lava sprinkled with vivid green succulents then swam in a luminous-blue natural rock pool – all with barely another soul in sight.

El Hierro's aim was always to grow visitor numbers gradually. The forward-thinking island has been committed to a wide-ranging sustainable development plan since 1997, including creating museums and visitor centres (there are seven now) that promote its culture and traditions, focussing on activities with limited environment impact and improving the island's infrastructure while preserving nature (it didn't get its first paved road until 1962 and there's famously only one traffic light).

"We want to increase tourism and continue to improve the island's standard of living, but not to the detriment of the residents' quality of life or the island's natural resources," said Davinia Suárez Armas, island director of tourism and transport. "We prefer to maintain our culture and share our quiet way of life with visitors."

The landscape here changes as quickly as the weather; you can travel from the sun-baked southern coast through barren volcanic badlands and sun-dappled forest, arriving at its diminutive mist-shrouded mountain capital, Valverde, in less than an hour. The island has a multitude of microclimates as well as more than 100 endemic species of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered El Hierro giant lizard, leading Unesco to declare the entire island and a large area of its waters a Biosphere Reserve in 2000 and a Geopark in 2014.

Valverde is the only Canarian Capital not located by the sea (Credit: Getty Images)

There are several striking beaches – the black-pebble Timijiraque on the east coast, the red-hued Playa del Verodal on the west, and the white-sand Arenas Blancas at the western tip of El Golfo – but the island is better suited for those who want to get active, rather than fly-and-flop.

I took a white-knuckle drive up a series of hair-raising hairpin bends to reach La Dehesa, a windswept high pasture of hardy shrubs, sculptural volcanic stone and El Sabinar, the most famous of a group of ancient juniper trees in the area. A symbol of the island's resilience, their branches swept the ground and the tortured trunks were twisted and bent by centuries of savage trade winds.

Self-sufficiency and sustainability go hand-in-hand with life on a remote isle, and it's been in the islanders' DNA since the first settlers, the Bimbaches, arrived from North Africa around 120 CE. They survived by farming, fishing and foraging, and discovering an ingenious way to collect fresh water – a challenge on an island without rivers or natural lakes.

The tale of the Árbol Garoé, a sacred tree that supplied the Bimbaches with all the water they needed, is rooted in herreño legend, and I discovered how every drop of water counts along the Ruta del Agua (Water Route), a 16km circular trail that begins in El Hierro's highest village, San Andrés.

In El Sabinar, Gnarled wild Juniper Trees have been blown into surreal shapes by fierce trade winds (Credit: El Hierro Tourist Board)

The island's history is plagued by devastating droughts that led to mass emigration as far afield as Venezuela, most recently in the mid-20th Century, and this route signposts everything water-related from Los Dornajos (aged wooden water tanks) to dams and divine intervention. The Virgen de los Reyes, the island's patron saint, is said to have ended the drought of 1741, and is celebrated every four years during the Bajada de la Virgen, a month-long, island-wide fiesta.

As I hiked through mist-wreathed pastures to the Árbol Garoé's moss-lined mountain grotto, the ground squelched underfoot, and my clothes and hair became as damp as if it was raining.

"It's a phenomenon known on the island as 'horizontal rain'," explained my guide Enrica Baudino, co-founder of Atlantidea hiking company. "When the moisture-laden north-east trade winds hit the mountains, they are forced to rise, and when they cool, they create a mist that leaves tiny droplets of water on vegetation – and hikers. The Bimbaches built tanks underneath trees and bushes to collect the water."

At a high point on the route, between Valverde and Tiñor, I looked over Gorona del Viento, El Hierro's pioneering wind-pumped hydropower station. Inaugurated in June 2014 with five 60m-tall wind turbines, two water reservoirs, four hydraulic turbines and one pumping station, it takes advantage of the island's unique topography – combining intermittent wind power with water power to create a constant supply of electricity – to fulfil the island's long-held dream of meeting all its energy needs from renewables.

The island’s dramatic topography includes sheer cliffs, arid volcanic cones and evergreen forests (Credit: El Hierro Tourist Board)

Cristina Morales, Gorona del Viento's head of communications, explained how it works: "Surplus wind power pumps desalinated water from a coastal reservoir to the upper reservoir set in a natural volcanic crater 700m above sea level," she said. "When there's no wind, the water is released back to the lower reservoir where the hydraulic turbines generate any electricity shortfall."

And the island is hitting its goals. In August 2015, for the first time, the power station generated all the electricity on the island for four hours and it made history in 2023 when it became the only island in the world to operate solely on wind and water power for 24 consecutive days, saving 13,708 tons of CO2 emissions and 4,509 tons of diesel.

But the wind turbines are spinning less and less in the face of climate change.

“During September and October, We have a Period Known as the 'Calms of September' – A Time of Calm Seas, Pleasant Temperatures and Little Wind” — Cristina Morales

"Our production was lower in 2023 because we had a very long summer, with high temperatures and less wind. During September and October, we have a period known as the 'calms of September' – a time of calm seas, pleasant temperatures and little wind. Last year, they lasted almost until January," said Morales. "That's why we are working on implementing other energy sources, such as photovoltaics."

Orchilla was considered a prime meridian for early map makers, and was known as the western extremity of the known world (Credit: Getty Images)

This innovative island wants to be the first Spanish destination to achieve net zero emissions. "We're developing a climate action plan," Suárez told me. "The aim is to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030, and achieve zero emissions by 2050."

These are big ambitions for such a small isle, but its achievements in sustainability are being recognised. Gorona del Viento has long been a role model for renewable energy projects around the globe, and in September this year, El Hierro will be presented with the Canary Islands Tourism award for Sustainable Tourism Destination, thanks in part to its long-standing environmental policies.

"We want to continue to be pioneers," said Suárez, "not just in the Canary Islands but around the world."

That evening, I headed to Faro de Orchilla, a clifftop lighthouse ringed by rippling red-hued lava, and looked out onto the vast ocean. In the 2nd Century, Greek mathematician and astronomer Ptolemy put El Hierro on the map after declaring that the prime meridian was here at Orchilla, the westernmost point of the island that was – before Columbus set sail in 1492 – the limit of the known world. Longitude zero may have moved to Greenwich in 1884, but as I watched the setting sun streak the water pink and gold, I knew that El Hierro would never lose its wild, edge-of-the-world feel.

[thxnews]

Canary Islands Guide

The Canary Islands, also known informally as The Canaries, are a sun-soaked collection of eight Spanish Islands located off the northwest coast of Africa. The largest sized island of the archipelago is Tenerife, followed by Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro, with the smallest in area being La Graciosa. Each of these islands has it's own distinctive features and climate. The Canary Islands beckon travelers with their unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With a landscape that ranges from volcanic peaks to golden beaches and lush forests, this archipelago offers an alluring escape for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Stepping foot on these Spanish territories is like entering a world where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a range of diverse experiences. The allure of the Canary Isles lies not only in their stunning landscapes but its modern identity. Whether you're drawn to exploring historic towns, indulging in local cuisine, or simply basking in the year-round sunshine, there is something for every traveler. Join us on a journey through this captivating destination as we uncover the secrets and wonders awaiting those who venture to the Canary Isles.  

Tile map of the Islas Canarias in the Atlantic Ocean. Photo by Wolfgang Sauber. Wikimedia.  

Location and Geography: Volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean

Located in the Atlantic Ocean, this collection of small islands with a population of around 2.2 million people is found 62 miles west of Morocco and the Western Sahara. The geology is dominated by volcanic rock and they are located on the African tectonic plate. The volcanic history started about 70 million years ago and the region is still volcanically active today. The Canaries boast a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness and are a major tourist attraction.  

Sunset on the un-spoilt coastline in Tenerife, Spain. Photo by Fausto Garcia Menendez. Unsplash.  

A Short Overview of the Eight Main Islands:

Tenerife This large island is dominated by Mount Teide (12,188 ft), Spain's highest peak and the third largest volcano on the planet. A visit to see this volcano is an unforgettable experience. It is possible to ascend Teide in two ways: first, by cable car, travelling from the base station to a station near the top. The second option is to hike to the peak via Montaña Blanca; the trail is around 9 km long and takes between 6 - 7 hours, but beware, it is cold at the top so take a coat, hat and gloves.   Sightseeing on Tenerife There are many other things to see and do on Tenerife and sightseeing by taking a car or bus around the island to see the museums and charming villages is a must. You can do just about any sport on Tenerife from swimming to golf or you can go trekking or visit Teide's lunar-like landscapes at night to see the exceptionally clear sky which displays the Milky Way clearly. Grilled meat and fish, fresh seafood and vegetarian food is plentiful on Tenerife. The fruit and vegetables are fresh due to the climate allowing growth all year round and include locally grown advocado, mangos, papaya, kiwi, passion fruit and pineapple. Or if you wanted to try something different you could try the native custard fruit, pitaya and guava.   Fuerteventura Fuerteventura, a gem in the Canary Islands, offers a unique holiday experience blending nature and adventure seamlessly. Every year visitors are drawn by its fiestas, late night discos and clubs, water parks and golf courses. Additionally, you can discover local culture in Betancuria, home to a cathedral and several museums or visit Tefia's eco-museum. With its consistent trade winds and warm climate, Fuerteventura is a windsurfer's paradise. The island's diverse coastline offers a range of sports catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders seeking thrilling wave conditions. Sotavento Beach on the south coast is particularly renowned for its world-class windsurfing events and ideal wind patterns. In addition to challenging conditions, Fuerteventura also boasts stunning landscapes that provide a picturesque backdrop for windsurfing enthusiasts. From rugged cliffs to pristine white sand beaches, the island's scenery adds an extra element of excitement to each session on the water. Roaming inland reveals magnificent volcanic landscapes like Calderon Hondo or the endless sand dunes of Corralejo. Whether you're looking to improve your skills or simply enjoy the sensation of gliding across crystal-clear waters, Fuerteventura offers an unforgettable windsurfing experience amidst beautiful surroundings.   Discover the Great Local Food Exploring Fuerteventura’s charms extends to its culinary scene; be sure to savor local delicacies like wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce or fresh seafood dishes that reflect the island's maritime heritage. For those seeking tranquility, Tindaya Mountain beckons with its spiritual aura and panoramic views over the island. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a beachcomber at heart, Fuerteventura appeals to all sensibilities with its natural beauty and laid-back vibe.  

Volcanic coastline in Gran Canaria, Spain. Photo by Joel Rohland. Unsplash.   Gran Canaria Gran Canaria is more than just a typical beach destination; it is often referred to as a miniature continent due to it's diverse landscapes. Driving inland you are surrounded by rugged mountains which take you to natural lookout points where you can witness stunning views and watch the sun setting or rising. Right in the centre of the island is Pico de las Nieves which rises to 1,956 meters. Access is very simple and the road takes you to the car park where you only have to walk 50 meters to the top. When you arrive, the views are so spectacular you will think you are in a film. The island's capital, Las Palmas, offers a mix of vibrant culture and historical charm, with its many markets and interesting architecture. For nature enthusiasts, the island is home to breathtaking natural reserves like Tamadaba National Park and Guayadeque Ravine which providing endless opportunities for hiking and exploration. Embrace the laid-back vibe of Gran Canaria by exploring its charming villages like Teror or Arucas, where traditional Canarian architecture blends seamlessly with modern cafes and boutiques. One of Gran Canaria's hidden gems is its gastronomic scene, influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American flavors. Indulge in local delicacies such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce or fresh seafood dishes made from the day's catch. The island also hosts various food festivals throughout the year showcasing its culinary richness. Beyond its sun-soaked beaches, Gran Canaria offers a variety of experiences for travelers seeking a deeper connection with this enchanting island. Explore ancient cave paintings at Cueva Pintada Archaeological Park or immerse yourself in the local tradition during one of the many lively fiestas that celebrate everything from music to flowers. With so much to see and do on this vibrant island paradise, Gran Canaria truly offers something for every type of traveler.  

Lanzarote, Spain. Photo by Zinah Insignia Unsplash.   Lanzarote Lanzarote's volcanic landscapes showcase nature's raw power in its black lava fields and emerald green lagoons. When visiting Lanzarote, make sure to explore the otherworldly landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, where you can witness volcanic craters and stunning lava formations. For a unique experience, take a camel ride through the dramatic terrain and feel transported to another time. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to visit Jameos del Agua, a series of caves and pools designed by César Manrique, offering a mesmerizing blend of art and nature. If you're looking for relaxation, head to the pristine beaches of Papagayo for some sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. For a taste of local culture, check out Teguise Market on Sundays for traditional crafts and delicious cuisine. Finally, immerse yourself in the island's artistic heritage at César Manrique Foundation, where you can admire his innovative works fusing architecture with nature.   La Palma Known as the Island of Eternal Spring, La Palma offers tranquil forests ideal for contemplation amidst unspoiled surroundings. One of the must-do activities in La Palma is to visit the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Situated at an elevation of 2,396 meters, this world-renowned observatory offers breathtaking views of the night sky and a unique opportunity to marvel at the stars through powerful telescopes. Visitors can also learn about cutting-edge astronomical research happening at this remote location. For nature enthusiasts, a hike through La Caldera de Taburiente National Park is an absolute must. This ancient volcanic crater is filled with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and stunning waterfalls. Hikers can explore numerous trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the park's rugged terrain. To unwind after a day of exploration, head to the charming town of Los Llanos de Aridane and indulge in local cuisine at one of its many traditional restaurants. Sample fresh seafood dishes or hearty stews made with locally sourced ingredients for an authentic taste of Canarian gastronomy. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Palmeran wine for a truly unforgettable dining experience on this beautiful island.  

Hiking trail in the Garajonay National Park on La Gomera, Spain. Photo by Drone Picr. Wikimedia.   La Gomera When visiting La Gomera, take a hike through the lush Garajonay National Park to experience the island's stunning natural beauty up close. The misty laurel forests, ancient trees, and diverse plant and animal life make it a hiker's paradise. Alternatively, join the vibrant culture of La Gomera by attending one of its traditional festivals or events. From lively music performances to colorful parades and local markets, there is always something happening on the island that showcases its rich heritage. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of traditional music such as the Gomeran whistling language and drumming, which are unique to this small island. For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a whale watching tour off the coast of La Gomera. The waters surrounding the island are teeming with diverse marine life, including dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and more. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is not only awe-inspiring but will also highlight the importance of conservation efforts in preserving this pristine environment for future generations.   El Hierro El Hierro is the island farthest south and west of the Canaries with a small population of just 11,659 (2023).  At 103.67 square miles, it is the second-smallest of the eight main islands of the Canaries. One of the must-do activities when visiting El Hierro is exploring its stunning underwater world. As one of the best diving destinations in Europe, the island offers crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life and unique volcanic formations. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, there are plenty of dive sites to choose from, each offering a different perspective on this underwater paradise. For those seeking adventure on land, hiking through El Hierro's rugged terrain is an absolute must. The island boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails that lead you through dense forests, past dramatic cliffs, and to picturesque viewpoints overlooking the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, why not try paragliding over the island's dramatic coastline for a truly unforgettable experience?   La Graciosa Graciosa is a hidden gem in the Azores, offering a unique holiday experience for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The island's pristine beaches are perfect for relaxation and water activities, with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving. Hiking enthusiasts will also be delighted by the rugged landscapes and stunning viewpoints that Graciosa has to offer. One of the highlights of visiting Graciosa is exploring its charming villages, where time seems to stand still. The traditional white-washed houses with red roofs create a picturesque setting that feels like stepping back in time. Additionally, the local cuisine on the island is a true delight, with fresh seafood dishes and unique flavors that reflect the island's rich history and culture. A holiday in Graciosa promises an unforgettable experience filled with serenity and authenticity.  

Wild Life of the Canary Islands

From the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote to the lush forests of La Palma, each island harbors its own distinct ecosystems that contribute to the overall allure of the archipelago. The diverse wildlife found in the Canary Isles is nothing short of remarkable – visitors can witness rare species such as the Tenerife blue chaffinch or the Gran Canaria giant lizard in their natural habitats. Dolphins live around Tenerife all year and you can sail amongst them and and possible see blue whales and orcas. Exploring these islands provides a glimpse into a different world where nature thrives in its purest form, untouched by modern urbanization. The subtropical climate coupled with varied terrains makes it an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts looking to engage with nature on a deeper level. Whether it's bird-watching on El Hierro or snorkeling off the coast of Fuerteventura, there is no shortage of ways to immerse oneself in the wild beauty and wildlife that defines this captivating region.   The Weather is Mild All Year Round The Canary Islands boast a unique climate characterized by mild temperatures and little variation throughout the year. This steady climate is due to the islands' proximity to the ocean currents and trade winds, which help maintain a temperate environment. The Canary Isles experience pleasant temperatures ranging between 18°C and 24°C, making it an ideal destination for sunseekers seeking winter warmth.  

Accommodation: Luxury to budget-friendly

From luxury resorts boasting exquisite ocean views to traditional Spanish villas nestled in quaint villages, the Canary Isles offer a diverse range of accommodation options for every traveler. For solo travelers or budget-conscious explorers, cozy bed and breakfasts offer a homely atmosphere and local charm at affordable prices. Adventurous souls can opt for camping under the stars on one of the islands' designated campsites which provide an authentic outdoor experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.  

Food for Thought

Holidaying in the Canary Isles offers a diverse and captivating experience for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and leisure activities. From the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife to the pristine beaches of Fuerteventura, each island holds its own unique charm. With a warm climate year-round and a wide range of accommodation options, visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay while immersing themselves in the history and vibrant atmosphere of these Spanish islands. Whether you seek relaxation by the seaside or adventure in the mountains, the Canary Isles provide an ideal destination for a memorable vacation filled with exploration and rejuvenation.   Sources: THX News, Wikipedia, Britannica & Spain.info. Read the full article

[to-travel-smart]

Exploring the Hidden Gems of the Canary Islands: Insider Tips The Canary Islands, an enchanting archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, are renowned for their diverse landscapes, year-round sunshine, and vibrant culture. While popular destinations like Tenerife and Gran Canaria attract countless tourists, the true essence of the Canary Islands lies in their hidden gems. In this guide, we delve into some lesser-known treasures of the Canary Islands and offer insider tips to help you make the most of your visit. ## La Graciosa: The Untouched Paradise One of the Canary Islands' best-kept secrets is La Graciosa, a small island just north of Lanzarote. Accessible only by ferry, La Graciosa offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the more frequented islands. The island's unspoiled beaches, such as Playa de las Conchas, are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. To explore its rugged terrain, rent a bike and cycle along the sandy paths. Don’t miss the chance to sample fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants in the quaint village of Caleta del Sebo. ## Garajonay National Park: La Gomera’s Enchanted Forest For nature lovers, Garajonay National Park on La Gomera is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a mystical laurel forest, shrouded in mist and filled with ancient trees and endemic plant species. Hiking through the park's well-marked trails, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints and serene spots perfect for contemplation. Be sure to visit the Alto de Garajonay, the highest point on the island, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands on a clear day. ## El Hierro: The Island of Sustainable Tourism El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands, is a pioneer in sustainable tourism and renewable energy. The island is a haven for divers, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Dive sites like La Restinga offer the chance to see volcanic rock formations, underwater caves, and a variety of fish species. On land, explore the island's charming villages, such as Valverde, and indulge in the local cuisine, which includes dishes like grilled fish and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes). ## Agaete: Gran Canaria’s Picturesque Village While Gran Canaria is known for its bustling resorts, the village of Agaete offers a quieter, more authentic experience. Nestled in the island's northwest, Agaete boasts stunning natural beauty, from its dramatic cliffs to its lush green valley. Take a stroll through the village to admire its whitewashed houses and vibrant gardens. The nearby Puerto de las Nieves harbor is perfect for a leisurely day by the sea, with its natural pools and seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to hike in the Tamadaba Natural Park, which offers scenic trails and breathtaking views. ## Cueva de los Verdes: Lanzarote’s Volcanic Wonder Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape is home to many fascinating attractions, but the Cueva de los Verdes is one of the most unique. This extensive lava tube, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, is a mesmerizing underground world. Guided tours take you through the cave's winding passages, revealing stunning rock formations and hidden chambers. The highlight of the tour is the concert hall, where the acoustics create an otherworldly atmosphere. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Jameos del Agua, another volcanic marvel turned cultural center by the artist César Manrique. ## Masca: Tenerife’s Hidden Village Tenerife’s Masca village is a hidden gem nestled in the Teno Mountains. Known for its dramatic scenery and traditional Canarian architecture, Masca feels like a step back in time. The winding road to the village offers spectacular views, but the real adventure begins with the Masca Gorge hike. This challenging trail takes you from the village down to the rocky beach, passing through lush vegetation and steep cliffs. After the hike, reward yourself with a meal at one of the local restaurants, where you can savor Canarian specialties like goat stew and local wines.

## Insider Tips for Exploring the Canary Islands 1. **Visit Off-Season**: To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, consider visiting the Canary Islands during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll have more of the hidden gems to yourself. 2. **Rent a Car**: While public transportation is available, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and reach more remote locations. 3. **Try Local Cuisine**: Each island has its culinary specialties. Be sure to try local dishes like gofio (toasted grain flour), almogrote (cheese spread), and fresh seafood. Visiting local markets is also a great way to sample the islands' flavors. 4. **Respect Nature**: The Canary Islands are home to unique ecosystems and protected areas. Follow local guidelines, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife to help preserve these natural wonders. 5. **Learn Some Spanish**: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the local culture. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring the hidden gems of the Canary Islands, you'll discover a side of this archipelago that few tourists experience. From tranquil beaches to enchanting forests and charming villages, the Canary Islands offer a wealth of unforgettable experiences waiting to be uncovered. Read : Weekend Getaways: Budget-Friendly Travel Tips #TravelSmart #CanaryIslands #HiddenGems #SustainableTravel #ExploreMore

[astrojaxsaga]

A lot has been happening in the past few months! All good things. Unfortunately not weight loss-related, but that's secondary to life TBF.

I recently (like ~1.5 weeks ago) got back from a workshop/conference in Tenerife, which is an island in the Canary Islands in Spain (essentially the closest I have ever been to Africa). This is my final trip this year, and I am so excited to just stay home and relax and focus on myself for the holidays. I do not need any more added pressure.

The workshop was amazing, the food: divine & cheap, and the experience unforgetable. One aspect of the trip was a day tour of the island where we stopped for lunch in Garanchinco (the most beautiful city in Spain™) and toured the Mt Tiede Observatory and did some observations. The rest of the week, the weather was of course not cold for Nov. Probably a low of ~20°C, and one day it was up to 30. It was smart of me to bring both shorts & jeans just in case. I traveled light, I packed efficiently, and I did nothing outside the conference because frankly, I just wanted to be there for the workshop and get back home.

I have done some amazing travel this year, after such a long hiatus during covid. Essentially 3 full years of virtual conferences and no ability to travel, which is like the main perk of being a grad student. Underpaid? Yes, but also compensated with cool experiences. I'm really lucky to have had these trips this year. Probably before the new year, I will have to write a little blurb about the 4 different countries I visited (:

Regardless, my routines have been taking a hit, and it felt like I couldn't start up a schedule to work out without it getting impeded by my travel plans. This year has been busy (and rewarding!). But I am finally taking care of myself.

Mainly, I have been investing in figuring out my ADHD (recently diagnosed, as an adult) and trying to avoid binge eating. I haven't been working out consistently until I could invest time into managing all other aspects of my life, now that I don't need to travel. Right now, I have been starting up some trial medications and tracking my progress at work/home. So far, it is night and day. I am feeling so much better, so much less stressed and I'm able to stay in the present so much better. I feel like, happier? More grateful for things? Less anxious? (Obvs more productive?) My thoughts aren't swarming me all the time with all the things I have to get done and on what timeframe and what else could I be forgetting and who do I need to consider and how am I going to get it all done and....it gets intense. I am feeling so much less overwhelmed. I feel like I keep saying to myself, "Is this what it's like to be normal all the time??"

There is a part of me that is sad that I went so long without knowing I had ADHD, because everything was so much harder for me and I thought it was my fault. But I know I'm not lazy. I know I'm not stupid. I just struggled for so long. Watching people pass by me (academically) when I know I work harder than them. I know now that I CAN do a PhD, my work is worthwhile, and I am constantly becoming a better version of myself. Most of this was me and me alone, but with a little recognition of my struggles and some additional support for the deficiency, I think I will finally be able to get there.

[rasmasandra]

Beauty and Adventure in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a lot to offer visitors. There are lovely beaches, everywhere you look the beauty of nature surrounds you and you can visit picturesque colonial towns. This archipelago includes seven large and six smaller islands located 200 kilometers off the northwest coast of Morocco and Western Sahara Africa. The largest island is Tenerife. You’ll find UNESCO-listed heritage sites and…