Spain | JustRetired50Plus

Madrid, Spain

We suggest a four day Madrid city break should be spent taking in all the sights and sounds, that this very Spanish city has to offer.

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus recommended Madrid, Spain tour Video of still images:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/uE-nimcvVZk

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus recommended tourist attractions in Madrid, Spain tour Video_2:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/vahcJ8uDGCM

Madrid, Spain’s capital city, a vibrant city, with plenty to do and see

For a four day city break Madrid, Spain can offer a city with a unique Spanish character.

Whether you are a culture vulture soaking up yet another painting by Goya of Velazquez or you simply like exploring the various city ”barrios”. Maybe the variety of markets (e.g. La Cebada, San Miguel, La Paz) and old fashion shops, are your thing, or you are a consummate people watcher from the ample available street bar stools, its city streets are both memorable and vibrant, lined with ample cafes and restaurants. Along with its boulevards and ample shopping streets, it sports eye-catching modern architecture, giving the visitor a unique destination to visit.

Cervantes wrote “Don Quixote” while in a Madrid jail for financial wrong doings back in the 1600s.

A sense of Madrid, Spain

Spanish is the language of Madrid, however, the vast majority of the city’s population speak very good English.

During our visit to Madrid we choose to spend four days staying in a City centre hotel. It was a very central and easy to access all forms of transport. Madrid is only built since the 1600s, situated on a plateau, on neither a navigable river nor a university or cathedral site. Its big showcase buildings and boulevards date from the 17th and 18th century. In the 19th century, its vibrant working case neighbourhoods sprung up an the 20th century saw its modern infrastructure put in place. This extremely Spanish capital city was finally shaped by the entry into the EU in the 1970s, following on from the isolation of the previous Franco years. The old fashioned “siesta” still exits in this vibrant city trying so hard otherwise to be modern and fashionable. Be prepared for a very noisy city that never sleeps, even at night there is a constant battle between loud citizens, constant road sweepers and garbage collection lorry trucks and an a abundance of construction noise during the day. Our Spanish friends who live in Barcelona would say that this is because they feel Madrid gets an over inflated, disproportionate share of Spanish government taxes to spend on itself.

There are a multiplicity of coffee shops and bars, in which to relax, when retail therapy gets too much. One of the delights of Madrid is the number of bars and shops with colourful classic Hispano-Moorish tiled walls, depicting the owner’s home town, Trade or family life.

Recommendations for Madrid, Spain

A great way to spend four days in Madrid, in our opinion, would be something along the following:

Day 1: Explore the City of Madrid - get a ticket online and do the hop-on hop-off double-decker red bus tour of Madrid, taking in all the sights, such as the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Gran Vía promenade onboard the blue route bus.. Along the Green Route bus, see modern Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu stadium (the home of Real Madrid. Soccer is the city’s passion) and explore one of the city’s ancient plazas like Puerta del Sol. Alternatively, remain onboard for the entire route and simply enjoy the scenery.

Day 2: Do a tapas and wine tasting tour of your own around the many wonderful city restaurants or alternately sign up onto a similar official tour.

Day 3: Take one of the available excursions to any of these: 45Km to Aranjuez & Chinchon, the Spanish Bourbon monarchy’s attempt at creating a Spanish Versailles; 50Km to Toledo, a scenic hilltop old city, once was the Spanish capital; 88Km to Segovia, famous for its traditional suckling pig lunch and the mixed architecture left by Roman, Moors and Christian occupation; 40Km to El Escorial, visit the resting place of most Spanish monarchs since Charles V along with Philip’s vast palace and monastery.

Finish up the evening by taking in a Traditional Flamenco Show, back in Madrid.

Day 4: If you are interested in cultural attractions, take in the Museums, particularly “Museo de America”, “Museo Cerralbo” and the “Museo Sorolla” museums. Museo in Spanish means both museum and non commercial art gallery, both found together.

It’s best to buy a metro bus pass for your stay. It is valid for 10 journeys on either bus or metro and they can be purchased from tobacconists, ticket booths, automatic machines and metro stations.

Generally, entry into Madrid’s museums is free during the last two hours of opening in the late afternoon.

Be advised that temperatures in Madrid during the months of June to August are generally in the 30C’s (degrees Celsius). Fortunately, Madrid has a number of public parks (>40) and Museums (>50) in which to get shade and respite from the heat.

Our must see recommendation for a trip to Madrid, Spain:-

Take a one day city guided food tour, around the heart of the city with a knowledgeable native guide, dropping off in different eateries to savour the local culinary delights.
Do one of the tours out from the city, it will enhance your understanding of the contrast between Spanish rural and urban life.
For any soccer fan, a visit to the Bernabéu stadium is a must do.
Experience the quirky delight between Madrid’s idiosyncratic shopping outlets and the international staple outlets all available on the Calle Preciados, a pedestrianised area connecting Puerto del Sol to the Gran Via.

The average cost per person / per week is €500 (depending on type of hotel/ accommodation selected)

All of the tour tickets are available over the web where some savings can be made.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

This is a map of Europe showin the position of Madrid

Anchor 1

Lanzarote (Activity holiday)

Spain - (AL 3 - 7) A 7 day self directed trip to the Spanish island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands.

Spent a week break in Lanzarote, Spain.

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus Lanzarote Video:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/Y2mbkCIYCQM

There are three possible holiday types that a visitor can have in Lanzarote.

the activity holiday, visiting all of the tourist destinations that the island has to offer ;
The laid-back, in-active holiday type of Sleep, Food, Sun & Entertainment ;
A holiday that is a mixture of both holiday options (1) and (2), above.

Lanzarote, Spain 2019

This is a blog from the perspective of a type (1) holiday above.

Lanzarote is one of the Canary Island group belonging to Spain, off the coast of north west Africa. The Canary Islands are the most well known, popular sun destination for Irish people. Because of their geographic location, closer to the equator, they have up to 330 days of sunshine per year. The seven main islands are (from largest to smallest in area) Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.

The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate. Temperatures are warm and show little seasonal variation. More recently, Irish people treat a trip to the Canaries like they used to treat a trip to the Lakes of Killarney, except with better weather and only a four hour flight away.

A sense of Lanzarote, Spain 2019

The dark volcanic sandy beach of Puerto del Carmen’s Playa Grande stretches for a few kilometres, backed by the town’s main promenade, with its full complement of restaurants and bars. Whether you simply feel like kicking back and taking in the sunshine, having a bite to eat and a few beers at a beachfront restaurant or bar, or getting active with one of the many water sports options on offer - all is within easy access. Timanfaya National Park lunar volcanic landscape feels a million miles from the hotel-brushed beaches around the island’s fringe. For shoppers in search of bargains, the markets in Lanzarote are legendary places of pilgrimage. Here you can find anything from hand-made jewellery to knock-off designer watches and bags to hand-made lace products. Without a doubt, on Lanzarote, the centre of the lively party scene is found in Puerto del Carmen, where Avinda de las Playas is lined with clubs and bars offering everything from karaoke to R&B. If you are looking for something more quite, then Costa Teguise is a better option, as it isn’t really known for its nightlife.

Famous artist Cesar Manrique left his imprint all over the island of Lanzarote, in the form of his off-the-wall installations. Checking out one of his creations is a must for every visitor to Lanzarote. For instance, head over to the north coast and stop in at Jameos del Agua, where Manrique converted underground lava caves into a concert hall and sophisticated bar. He built his own house into a lava field, which is quite extraordinary. The creation of the Cactus garden was Cesar’s final project before his death.

Spanish is the language of the Canary Islands, however, the vast majority of people speak excellent English.

Our recommendation for a trip to Lanzarote, Spain 2019:-

We suggest you stay in Porto Del Carmen, as close to the old town as possible. We like to stay in the Fariones Playa, which has a wonderful location on the beach.
Do the guided island tour, there is loads to see.
Have a drink (or two) in the Harbour Bar it is like a flashback to Ireland in the ’50's

The average cost per couple / per week B&B is €800.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 2

Lanzarote (Relaxation holiday)

Spain - (AL 1) A 7 day laid-back, chilled out trip to the Spanish island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands.

Spent a very low activity week break in Lanzarote, Spain.

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus Laid-Back Lanzarote Video:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/-pR0AGweJU0

There are three possible holiday types that a visitor can have in Lanzarote.

the activity holiday, visiting all of the tourist destinations that the island has to offer ;
The laid-back, in-active holiday type of Sleep, Food, Sun & Entertainment ;
A holiday that is a mixture of both holiday options (1) and (2), above.

Lanzarote, Spain 2019

As this is a blog from the perspective of a type (2) holiday above, possibly the beach walk and the Calero walk will be the height of your ambition, especially if you are based in Puerto del Carmen..

A sense of Lanzarote, Spain 2019

A walk along the grande beach at either sunrise or sunset will possibly be the height of your ambition. For those more adventurous, then the walk along the cliff walk to Calero, followed by a taxi return trip or an €8 ferry journey back to Puerto del Carmen port, will probably suffice as enough over exertion for the entire week.

Spanish is the language of the Canary Islands, however, the vast majority of people speak excellent English.

Our recommendation for a trip to Lanzarote, Spain 2019:-

We suggest you stay in Puerto del Carmen, as close to the old town as possible. We like to stay in the Fariones Playa, which has a wonderful location on the beach.
Partake of the ample restaurants and bars.
Have a drink (or two) in the Harbour Bar it is like a flashback to Ireland in the ’50's

The average cost per couple / per week B&B is €800.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 3

Mallorca Sailing

This is an image of sailing off of Mallorca.

Youtube link to the Mallorca Sailing stills image video:-

https://youtu.be/ops-4AINfIk

Link to our How to Sail for beginners video, made in Rodney Bay, St Lucia.

Sailing in Mallorca, Spain

We sailed around Mallorca, Spain in July 2018 for a week. The climate was typical mediterranean and ideal for sailing, and just before the very high season part of the Mediterranean summer, when most Europeans take the month of August off as their annual vacation.

A sailing holiday may not be everyone’s cup of tea, however, there is an enormous sense of accomplishment and enjoyment having done a few.

A sailing trip, such as this, would involve high levels of activity, particularly if you are crewing the boat yourself.

There are two types of boat hire, bareboat and flotilla sailing. A professional skipper hire is additionally available for either type of boat hire.

Bareboat charter is yacht charter holiday without a hired skipper, so one or more of the charter guests will be sailing the boat themselves. Sailboat charter on a bareboat yacht either requires a valid licence or proof of sufficient sailing experience. In some countries a second member of the charter needs to have sailing experience, too. Since there is no crew, the charterers of the yacht will also do any required provisioning, cooking, planning of itineraries etc

Flotillas are available for varying skill levels from Easy to Advanced level. Conditions such as wind, tide, distances and mooring methods determine the experience required to sail in each area. You can be as independent as you like, but your Lead Boat Crew are always nearby in case you need any assistance during your trip. They will also recommend the best anchorages, harbours, restaurants and places to visit.

A possible option for sailors who do not have too much experience would be a combination of skippered and bareboat charter. They could hire a skipper to sail the yacht for the first few days and gradually take over until they feel confident to navigate the boat alone. Another possibility would be a flotilla charter with a lead boat and a guide that gives assistance.

If you use a skill scale of “1 - 5” for sailing around Mallorca, we would regard it as a level “three” and this level increases to a “four” the further south you go away from the lee side affect of the island itself.

We started acquiring our sailing expertise by doing a flotilla sailing week back in 2004, around the Ionian Sea in Greece. Sailing in this area during summer is a “one” on the skill scale as there is little or no tide difference and you can time your watch by the wind. It blows between 13.00 and 17.00 each afternoon, otherwise it is relatively benign.

We moved up a notch in experience when we did a flotilla sailing week back in 2013, around the British Virgin Islands, with our two adult children. We have also sailed in a flotilla back in 2016, along the Eastern coast of Mallorca, this we would regard as a “three” on the skill scale. So, we were well acquitted to skipper our own flotilla 41ft yacht around Mallorca in July 2018. As with every skill base, you build up your competency over time. You are never too late to start.

After 7 days sailing we flew directly back to Dublin from Palma Airport.

A sense of Sailing in Mallorca, Spain

The official currency of Mallorca is obviously the Euro.

If you get an opportunity during your travels in Mallorca, to visit Palma, do so, as it is a unique experience in a beautiful southern Spanish city in a coastal setting.

Our general experience of the people from Mallorca, was that they are very friendly and they all seem to have a particular liking for small children. Within the port calls themselves the staff, all Spanish, were courteous and friendly. The taxis are very reasonable and work on a system of a radius from their town of origin. The shops and the restaurants were all clean, up to date and very inviting, with a wide variety of delicious food, especially seafood. The street sellers were non pushy and in no way intimidating. You get a unique perspective of the coastline from the seaward side while sailing.

Recommendations for Sailing in Mallorca, Spain

There is no language barrier, if you speak only English. The vast majority of both young and old speak English.

So it lends itself to undertaking trips that can be self directed. The hire cost of a car when you come ashore is very cheap in comparison to Irish prices.

If you have never done sailing before, think of it like glamping, for those familiar with glamorous camping terms. Counter-intuitively, the bigger the boat the easier it is to handle but this theory reached its point of diminishing return after boats of 50ft in length.

Generally, all overnight stops are at mooring buoys/anchor or alongside quays.

Overnight mooring costs are not paid in advance and are not included in the overall package cost. Payment can be made at the bar managing the moorings, or usually someone will come out to your boat to take payment. Dockage in marinas typically starts at one Euro per foot per night.

Our must see recommendation for a trip Sailing around Mallorca, Spain.

(1) The actual excitement and freedom of sailing itself, particularly in warm waters with the sun shining in all its splendour, is truly fantastic;

(2) Our second choice would be the availability of numerous excellent and very different ports and beaches;

(3) Our sail down and back to the Isla De Cabrera, a six hour sail each way, was very memorable, entering into the Bay is like a scene from Jurassic Park.

Cost per person, works out at the total cost of the one week boat hire 2,500 Euro divided by the number of passengers on board. The 41ft boat we hired had accommodation for six.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 4

Palma, Mallorca city break

This is an image of the Catherdral inMallorca.

We spent a 3 day city break in Palma, followed by a a chill out beach week in Camp de Mar in Mallorca, Spain.

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus recommended Mallorca hotels Video:-

https://youtu.be/UXGoky85a6E

A sense of Palma and Camp de Mar, Spain 2019

Hotel Saratoga

A city break to Palma, Mallorca

For a three or four day city break, Palma de Mallorca has it all. It is stylish and intimate, yet bursting with life and energy all year round, with luxury hotels, trendy and affordable restaurants, cafes, shops and nightlife as well as a thriving arts and culture scene. There is lots to see and do, with its bay and marina life adding a sense of being on a permanent holiday.

We have been to Palma a number of times and each time we discover new places to visit and things to do, but we always stay in the Saratoga Hotel. It is just around the corner from the main shopping street Jaume III and within easy walking distance of the cobbled alleyways of the old town (which is a shoppers delight) and the marina with its lovely restaurants. With a rooftop pool and bar, it is a great place to have a glass of wine and take in the views. The inner courtyard on the ground floor with a small pool and lots of sun loungers is a hidden oasis, and favoured by Art when retail therapy gets too much.

Hotel H10BlueMar

For a seven night break in a quaint Spanish beach location, Camp de Mar ticks all the boxes. It is a €35 taxi ride from Palma. A stay at the adults only H10 BlueMar hotel is our recommendation. It has an unrivalled proximity to the beach right across the boardwalk. The activity level can range from 0 to 8 depending on the degree of activity you wish to pursue. All water sports are available, golf can be accessed within walking distance and hill walking can both start or end in Camp de Mar. The hotel gym is functional and generally under utilised There is an excellent choice of restaurants close to the hotel, while the hotel restaurant itself is really welcoming at night and well worth a visit.

Our recommendation for a trip to Palma, Spain 2019:-

We suggest you stay at the Saratoga Hotel

Our recommendation for a trip to Camp de Mar, Spain 2019:-

We suggest you stay at the H10BlueMar Hotel

The average cost per couple / per week B&B is €1,300.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 5

Palma to Soller, train

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus Soller Video:-

https://youtu.be/QfcOesRbkHQ

Palma-to-Soller-Train, Spain 2019

A city break to Palma, Mallorca

This trip to Palma for a city break would be regarded as a rest and relaxation type holiday with relatively, very little activity required.

A sense of Palma, Spain 2019

Recommendations for Palma, Spain 2019

A great way to spend four days in Palma, in our opinion, would be something along the following:

Day 1: Explore Palma - get an combo ticket and do the hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour of Palma, taking in all the sights, be sure to get off at Bellver Castle which is up on a height outside the city to take the few obligatory photos of the city and bay area. A walk around La Seu: Palma’s 14th century Cathedral is a must, with its imposing position overlooking Parc de la Mer and the bay. Follow the bus trip with a water bus trip around the bay and marina area, and dine in one of the lovely restaurants along the marina.

Day 2: Trip to Soller - take the vintage train from Palma to the town of Soller on the west coast which takes about an hour. The scenery is beautiful as the train worms its way through the golden valley which is famous for its orange groves. Interestingly before the Soller tunnel opened in 1997 the mountain-ringed Soller Valley was almost cut off from the rest of the island and had a stronger trading relationship with France than with Palma. In Soller it is worth having a look around the Neo-Gothic church of Sant Bartomeau, sit in Placa Constitucio soak up the atmosphere and linger over a coffee. Be sure to take the funicular tram down to the Port de Seller, it takes about 20 minutes and is a real experience. Don’t attempt to walk. It is too far in the heat. Lunch in one of the many restaurants along the sea front. There is a small beach there if you fancy a dip to cool off. It is possible to get a combo ticket which covers both the train and the tram journeys, saves a lot messing and works out cheaper.

Day 3: Beach day - reward yourself with a day on the beach. Take the No 3 bus out to Illetes, which is a beautiful safe cove to the west of Palma. There is a great restaurant on the beach, where the food is to die for. We have been known to be the first there in the morning, ready to start the day with a healthy breakfast, ready for a day of sun-bathing and swimming. A little bit of heaven on earth !

Day 4: I suppose all good things come to an end. So its time to pack up. If your flight is in the evening, it should be possible to leave your luggage in the hotel designated safe room and perhaps hit the shops for the last minute gifts, or if you are lucky enough to have been staying in the Saratoga, you can always linger by the pool with your glass of sangria……………..”What’s not to like about that !”

Our must see recommendation for a trip to Palma-to-Soller-Train, Spain 2019:-

Our trip by vintage train from Palma northwards up to Soller through the mountains.
Our visit to Palma’s multitude of excellent shops and restaurants was the highlight of our trip

The average cost per person / per week is €750.

The vintage train and funicular tram integrated ticket for the return trip costs €32 pp.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 6

Lanzarote (Rental Property holiday)

Back to Europe

Spent a 2 week break in Lanzarote, Spain.

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus Lanzarote- Rental Property Video:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/-VDW_dS-VC4

There are three possible holiday types that a visitor can have in Lanzarote.

An activity holiday, visiting all of the tourist destinations that the island has to offer;
The laid-back, inactive holiday type of Sleep, Food, Sun & Entertainment;
A holiday that is a mixture of both holiday options (1) and (2), above.

The advent of COVID-19 has changed the way any of the options above can now be experienced. Many of Lanzarote’s hotels, restaurants and shops are now shut due to COVID-19. As a consequence, we took turns cooking each night, supplemented by only 2 take-aways for a change over the course of the 2 weeks.

Mid December 2020, when Ireland opened back up briefly, Lanzarote was one of the very few destinations still open for travel, for EU citizens.

One has to ask oneself firstly, whether you are willing and able to travel and accept the changed requirements and circumstances that any holiday now entails as a consequence of COVID-19 ( refer to our website article on this very question:- https://www.justretired50plus.com/travel-in-the-covid-world )

As is the case in all of Spain, you are required to wear a face mask out in public at all times in Lanzarote.

Another question one has to ask oneself, if you do decide to travel, is whether to stay in a hotel or to rent a property for the duration of your holiday. ( refer to our website article on this very question:-

https://www.justretired50plus.com/choice-of-hotel-or-rental )

Lanzarote, Spain 2020

This is a blog from the perspective of a type (3) holiday above.

The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate. Temperatures are warm and show little seasonal variation. More recently, Irish people regard a trip to the Canaries like they used to regard a trip to the Lakes of Killarney, except with better weather and only a four hour flight away.

A sense of Lanzarote, prior to the advent of COVID-19

Famous artist Cesar Manrique left his imprint all over the island of Lanzarote, in the form of his off-the-wall installations. Checking out one of his creations is a must for every visitor to Lanzarote. For instance, head over to the north coast and stop in at Jameos del Agua, where Manrique converted underground lava caves into a concert hall and sophisticated bar. He built his own house into a lava field, which is quite extraordinary. The creation of the Cactus Garden was Cesar’s final project before his death.

A sense of Lanzarote, during the presence of COVID-19

As of October 2020 Ireland has harmonised with the pan-European traffic light system. Based on this new system, Lanzarote at the time of our travelling was designated as “Orange” as was Ireland. We had a choice to make whether to book a stay in a hotel or alternately to get a rental property. We chose the latter. On choosing our rental property, we made the decision not to stay in the most popular location, Puerto Del Carmen, on the island. Instead, we chose to rent a property in the quieter more southern town of Playa Blanca. We also decided to rent our own transport for the 2 weeks, with pickup of the people carrier at the airport and its return to the airport at the end of our stay, thus overall reducing our exposure to risk.

The house we rented comfortably accommodated all eight of us with 4 double bedrooms and three bathrooms. The property included its own heated pool and a heated small jacuzzi children’s pool. This might seem lavish, however, it turned out to be our permanent location for the entire two weeks, except for trips to the shops periodically, odd mornings on the beach and some site-seeing self directed tours.

We were blessed with the weather for the whole two weeks, blue sky and temperatures in the 19 - 21 degree range. It was an unusual holiday for us in that it was our family self isolating but instead of being caught up in the Irish Christmas mania, it was instead a lovely quiet family holiday in the sunshine. Just the antidote that we all needed to all of the COVID-19 doom and gloom going on at home in Ireland. As we had two small children with us under the age of 3 years, renting a property, turned out to be the right choice for us.

Most of the tourist venues on the island were closed to the public because of Covid-19, or at best, have very reduced access.

Masks have to be worn on the beach, except when you are swimming or sitting in socially distanced pods of your own contacts.

Public transport is very much reduced.

Restaurants that are open, enforce the mask at all times rule except when eating.

Luckily we are a close knit family and we get on well together. A holiday such as this during COVID times is not conducive to spontaneity or off the cuff meetings and getting together.

A holiday during these COVID times necessitates that you more than ever have to get along with your travelling companions, stay within your pod, and don’t take any unnecessary risks.

Spanish is the language of the Canary Islands, however, the vast majority of people speak excellent English.

Our recommendations for a trip to Lanzarote, prior to the advent of COVID-19:-

We suggest you stay in Porto Del Carmen, as close to the old town as possible. We like to stay in the Fariones Playa or the hotel which has now reopened, which has a wonderful location on the beach.
Do the guided island tour, there is loads to see.
Have a drink (or two) in the Harbour Bar it is like a flashback to Ireland in the ’50's

Our recommendations for a trip to Lanzarote, during the presence of COVID-19:-

We recommend that you bring along lots of books to read and games to play.
A good WiFi connection is more of an essential than normal.
Take with you on the holiday lots of downloaded films or alternately bring along some IT portable mechanism to allow you to stream movies on demand.

The average cost per person / per week is €500 excluding flight, but this is Christmas high season, this price would obvious be a lot cheaper at any other time of the year.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

Anchor 7

Lanzarote's Fariones Hotel (4 to 5 Star Upgrade)

Youtube link to the JustRetired50Plus Lanzarote-Fariones_Hotel Video:-

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/YGT3CawAAxs

Lanzarote has something for everyone….and never fails to deliver. Within a four hour flight from Ireland you are brought to a whole different world, one of great weather, amazing beaches with clear water, a wide variety of attractions and activities and an endless variety of restaurants…….all available within a reasonable budget.

There are three possible holiday types that a visitor can have in Lanzarote.

An activity holiday, visiting all of the tourist destinations that the island has to offer;
The laid-back, inactive holiday type of Sleep, Food, Sun & Entertainment;
A holiday that is a mixture of both holiday options (1) and (2), above.

The advent of COVID-19 has changed the way any of the options above can now be experienced. Many of Lanzarote’s hotels, restaurants and shops are only now starting to return to pre-COVID-19 levels of occupancy and business levels. As a consequence, we took the opportunity, when Irish travel restrictions were finally lifted, to visit the recently re-opened Fariones Hotel in Puerto Del Carmen, Tias, Lanzarote.

Lanzarote is one of the very few all year around sun destinations still open for travel, for EU citizens.

As is the case in all of Spain, you are now required to wear a face mask indoors at all times in Lanzarote.

https://www.justretired50plus.com/choice-of-hotel-or-rental )

Fariones Hotel re-opened Sept 2020 after 5 star upgrade

All the bedrooms and public areas have been given a five star uplift. The hotel bedrooms are really comfortable, with air conditioning and nice toiletries, a little fridge, kettle and coffee maker with supplies- no need to bring shampoo/ conditioner etc. You can request the beds to be prepared as a double, rather than two singles. Two lovely arm chairs out on the balcony;
There are 5 star aromatic toiletries available in all bathrooms both public and private, throughout the property;
On the property the hotel gardens are now fabulous. The gardens have been upgraded, with lots of nooks and crannies with seating etc. Lovely new beach beds and chairs around the place. The pool has been extended as an infinity pool, and heated. A new walkway links Playa Chica to the hotel’s little beach and on to the big beach - so good for walking. A glass partition surrounds the hotel beach-side, so you need your hotel pass to get out/in. Meals on the terrace until very late into the evening, a small a la carte restaurant, and the usual self service. A new Thai restaurant opening mid-August;
There is now only security gate access, via your room card, to and from the beach;
A roof sun terrace with a pool is now available for all suite occupants;
If open during your stay, try the new asian Kaori restaurant, you will not be disappointed.
Hotel guests continue to have free access to the Fariones sports centre, only a 50m walk from the front of the hotel;
COVID-19 dictates that masks are compulsory at all times within the hotel. The only exception is when you are seated at your table for meals;
Under COVID rules, at time of writing, all pubs and restaurants must stop service at 11pm. Pubs and restaurants without outdoor service may not open. Only one family group allowed in lifts at any one time;
The square which is directly across the road from the Fariones Hotel entrance has come to life with a new Tea Room - La Golosa (Sweet Tooth); a wonderful new tapas restaurant - Taberna de Nino Varadero, an Italian and a new bar - the Lava Bar, with great music and cocktails. The hairdressers (on the far RHS) is being taken over by an Irish duo arriving soon;
The hotel is within 200m walking distance of one of the island’s primary diving locations, Playa Chica Pier.
If your holiday is during the winter months, allow extra duration for your stay to allow for unforeseen inclement winter weather. You can be unlucky to experience a Calima during your holiday break. Rest assured it will subside and calm will be restored.

Lanzarote, Spain 2021

This is a blog from the perspective of a type (2) holiday above.

A sense of Lanzarote, prior to the advent of COVID-19

Famous artist Cesar Manrique left his imprint all over the island of Lanzarote, in the form of his off-the-wall installations. Checking out one of his creations is a must for every visitor to Lanzarote. For instance, head over to the north coast and stop in at Jameos del Agua, where Manrique converted underground lava caves into a concert hall and sophisticated bar. He built his own house into a lava field, which is quite extraordinary. The creation of the Cactus Garden was Cesar’s final project before his death.

A sense of Lanzarote, during the presence of COVID-19

As of July 2021 Ireland has adopted the new EU Covid Digital Certificate programme which greatly enhances international travel. We had a choice to make whether to book a stay in a hotel or alternately to get a rental property. On this occasion we chose the former. On choosing our Hotel, we made the decision to stay in the recently upgraded 4 star to 5 star Fariones Hotel, Puerto Del Carmen..

We were blessed with the weather for the whole twelve days, blue sky and temperatures in the 24 - 27 degree range.

Most of the tourist venues on the island are now re-opening to the public because of Covid-19, or at best, have very reduced access.

Masks no longer have to be worn on the beach, however, people continue to sit in socially distanced pods of their own contacts.

Public transport is very much making an effort to return to pre-Covid-19 efficiency.

Restaurants that are open, employ the mask at all times rule except when eating.

A holiday such as this during COVID times is not conducive to spontaneity or off the cuff meetings and getting together.

A holiday during these COVID times necessitates that you more than ever have to get along with your travelling companions, stay within your pod, and don’t take any unnecessary risks.

Spanish is the language of the Canary Islands, however, the vast majority of people speak excellent English.

Our recommendations for a trip to Lanzarote, prior to the advent of COVID-19:-

We suggest you stay in Puerto Del Carmen, as close to the old town as possible. We like to stay in the Fariones Playa or the Hotel Fariones which has now reopened, and has a wonderful location on the beach
Do the guided island tour, there is loads to see.
Have a drink (or two) in the Harbour Bar (When it re-opens) it is like a flashback to Ireland in the ’50’s.
It is now possible to walk unobstructed from Calero via Puerto Del Carmen and Playa Honda all the way to Matagorda and onto the airport. There are ample opportunities for refreshment along the way.

The average cost per person / per week is €700 excluding flight, but this is August high season, this price would obvious be a lot cheaper at any other time of the year.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

An image of Lanzarote on a map of Africa

An image of a map of the Island_of_Lanzarote.

Granada and Alhambra

Granada and Alhambra palace in Andalusia, Southern Spain

We spent seven days visiting the tourist attractions that Andalusia, Southern Spain has to offer.

Link to video image montage of our Andalusia, Granada visit:- https://youtu.be/xynH6axuc5c

Link to video image montage of our Andalusia, Seville visit:- https://youtu.be/61MusGhsiuo

Link to video image montage of our Andalusia, Cordoba visit:- https://youtu.be/MXAuSoxjDm0

Link to video image montage of our Andalusia, Ronda visit:- https://youtu.be/WEcEc7O51hY

Link to video image montage of our Andalusia, Malaga, Antequera & Loja visit:- https://youtu.be/zxjEicI3QeY

Andalusia, Southern Spain 2022

In considering a trip to Andalusia, we decided to take a guided tour with the Travel Department, with the same guide on-hand throughout the entire holiday.

The tour comprised a seven nights stay in a four star hotel in Loja on a half-board basis. All of our daily coach trips began and ended at our hotel.

After our seven nights at the Mirador hotel we flew directly back to Dublin from Malaga Airport.

Loja

We visited the Andalusia region of Southern Spain during April 2022. We based ourselves centrally in the small town of Loja.

Staying in the Mirador Hotel in Loja, a new hotel with wonderful panoramic views of the town of Loja, which lies in a narrow valley divided in two by the Genil river and dominated by the Sierra de Loja.

Historically, Loja, situated on the western edge of the fertile plain of Granada, acted as a defensive centre under the Moors, who exploited the town’s geographical location to guard the fertile plain against attacks.

There are a number of churches of interest, going back to the 16th century, with architectural features reflective of the Renaissance, Gothic and Mudejar eras.

Antequera

Famous for its megalithic sites dating back to 3,750 BC. ‘Dolmen de Menga’ is the largest and most important of the dolmens that make up the group. It is 25metres long and 7 wide. It was a funeral chamber formed by immense monoliths that weigh up to 200 tonnes. Before visiting the sites it is advisable to go to see the 15 minute video in the Sala Exposiciones Munoz Rojas which explains how the dolmen were excavated and build. A really worthwhile and insightful video.

There is much to see along the drive from Luja to Antequera. Leaving the snow-topped Sierra Nevada (rising to 3,200 metres) behind, there is an abundance of olive trees. The Andalusia region produces 80% of Spain’s olive oil. Other vegetation include almond trees, sunflowers, strawberries, asparagus and orange trees.

Cordoba

Cordoba should not be missed on any Andalusian itinerary. As UNESCO World Heritage town, Cordoba boasts a unique cultural and historical value that can be hardly found in any other town. When Cordoba was capital of the Umayyad Caliphate, it attracted many intellectuals and cultivated science and knowledge.

Nowadays Cordoba is mostly famous for its Great Mosque-Cathedral, a symbol of the town. The almost 1000 pillars inside the mosque, built on a Visigoth cathedral, create the famous ‘Forest of Columns'.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted the mosque into a cathedral, calling it the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption.

They built a Gothic cathedral inside the mosque. A visit of Cordoba’s mosque will definitely leave you in awe.

But Cordoba is not only famous for its Moorish heritage, but also for the Jewish quarter with its narrow streets and white-washed house fronts. The ‘patios’, the interior courtyards of these quaint houses are yet another attraction of Cordoba.

Ronda

Ronda is a beautiful hill top city. It features the oldest Bull Ring in Spain. The city is perched on a mountainous gorge carved by the Río Guadalevín.

Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo. The bridge connects the two parts of the town over the 328 feet El Tajo gorge. A hike to the bottom of the gorge affords a visitor great views.

Seville

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a must when visiting the South of Spain.

It’s a seductive mix of Mudéjar palaces, ornate baroque churches, colourful tiles, and winding cobblestone lanes. There’s a romance to it.

Set on the Guadalquivir river, Sevilla boasts one of the most impressive Morrish and cultural heritage in the entire Andalusia region. It also used to be one of the richest towns in Spain, as its port was a commercial hub for all the boats arriving from las Americas. At that time Seville had the monopoly of foreign trade in the world. Still, nowadays its former wealth and economic activity are palpable in many areas of the city.

The popular neighbourhood of Triana is said to be the birthplace of flamenco. Several schools are offering introductory courses or restaurants have specialised on flamenco shows joined by a traditional Andalusian meal.

The Alcázar is really one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures — a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colours.

It is an UNESCO World Heritage site, a residence of the Spanish Royal family. It’s even a filming location for the HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’. It has exquisite tile work and over the top intricate Islamic architecture.

The Plaza de España is one of the famous architectural landmarks in Seville. It stands out in a city already overflowing with beautiful architecture.

It was built for the Ibero-American World Fair of 1929, where Spanish speaking countries enjoyed a year long mutual admiration festival.

For us, the best part of Seville is getting lost in its narrow streets and admiring the rich heritage of almost every building that you come across in the old city centre. Its very Spanish outdoor culture of bars and restaurants is a joy to experience. In our experience Seville is marvellous city and we think Seville is one of the top places to visit in Andalusia.

Malaga

Located on the famous Costa del Sol, Malaga is the southernmost large city in Europe. The town boasts of one of the best climates in Europe all year round and is the birthplace of the legendary Pablo Picasso and actor Antonio Banderas.

If you compare Malaga to Seville, we think that Seville is all about pride of the Andalusian identity and culture, whereas Malaga has been more open to foreign influences due to the long history of its port and influx of tourists.

In general, the atmosphere is very lively and people are extremely warm-hearted. It will be so easy to feel at home in Malaga. Even though Malaga and its adjacent Costa del Sol are internationally known for its top-quality golf courses and sandy beaches, the port town boasts an impressive cultural heritage such as the Moorish fortress, the Roman Theatre, and many prestigious museums (Thyssen, Picasso Museum, Centre Pompidou and many more…).

Malaga itself is a perfect destination for a city trip but also the perfect base to explore the beautiful surroundings of Costa del Sol and the mountainous backcountry. In this area, there are some amazing and unusual things to do in Andalusia. One of these is the Caminito del Rey, the most dangerous walking trail in the world!

Granada

Granada, also known as the Moorish pearl, is an absolute must-go place to visit in Andalusia. Hardly any other Andalusian town has such a rich and varied cultural heritage as the former capital of the Moorish Al-Andalus empire.

Granada means ‘pomegranate’ in Spanish, and is the symbol of the city. And be sure to give yourself enough time to pop into the bazaar-style shops, which may make you feel as though you’ve been transported to north Africa.

Indeed Granada combines the cultural heritage of the Arab legacy, Jewish influence with Renaissance architectural gems.

From all the Andalusian cities, the Moorish influence is the most palpable in Granada. This is probably due to the fact that Granada was the last town to be conquered by the Spanish Catholic Kings.

If you visit Calle Elvira in the historic city centre with its numerous Arab inspired tea shops, leather shops etc., you could think for a second, that you are in Morocco.

The most prominent attraction of Granada is without any doubt the Alhambra. The most beautiful part of the Alhambra, the Nasrid Royal Palaces, has limited access, so you need to make sure to book your tickets days in advance to visit this gem. This should surely be on your top things to do in Andalusia.

The Albaicín neighborhood, together with the Generalife gardens and Alhambra, is now an UNESCO heritage site. The neighbourhood seems to be lost in time of the Moorish Medieval times and offers some of the most spectacular views on the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada peaks.

Another neighborhood worth visiting and a gorgeous place to visit in Andalusia, Spain, is the Sacromonte area. It used to be inhabited mostly by gypsies living in cave-homes and was one of the poorest quarters in Granada. Nowadays the former cave-houses have been turned into restaurants and bars offering some of the most unique Flamenco experiences in the region.

A sense of Andalusia, Southern Spain 2022

It is now more than a millennia since Andalusia led the world in scholarship and art under the Moors, who took control in 711ad. Their reign ended in 1492 after Christian crusaders rolled down from the north, in the Reconquista (reconquest of the Iberian peninsula by Christians).

Surprisingly, the Moors’ art was respected and embraced by their conquerors. A large number of Andalusia’s glorious fortified palaces and cathedrals incorporated Moorish design. You can visit the Royal Alcazar in sultry Seville, gaze in awe at the mighty Alhambra in Granada, and see the stunning Mezquita in Cordoba.

The cross-cultural heritage is probably the ingredient that adds a lot to Andalusia’s attractiveness. The name ‘Andalusia’ comes from the Arabic word ‘Al-Andalus’, who reigned in Andalusia for almost a century. The Moorish legacy is still visible and palpable in every Andalusian corner.

Besides the Arabs, Andalusia’s culture and history has been influenced by the Phoenicians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Vandals, Hews and North Iberians that settled in the area after the ‘Reconquista’.

Compared to the rest of Spain, Andalusia is a traditionally agricultural region relying strongly on the tourism sector. The strong identity and the regional pride on Andalusia’s rich culture including flamenco, Moorish architecture, to some extent, bullfighting, wine production and gastronomy make Andalusia a vibrant destination to visit.

Many of the mentioned cultural phenomenons are often perceived as typically Spanish, their origins, however, are entirely Andalusian.

The best time to visit Andalusia, in our opinion, is in spring and autumn. The temperatures are still mildly warm and cities and beaches are less crowded.

If you plan to visit in the summer months (June to September), We recommend staying along the coast as the Andalusian countryside is one of the hottest regions in Europe.

Our must see recommendation for a trip to Andalusia, Southern Spain 2022:-

(1) Our visit to Alhambra in Granada, an UNESCO heritage site, was the highlight of our entire trip.

(2) Our second choice would be visiting Seville, and the Alcázar palace.

(3) Our third would be Cordoba, with its amazing ‘Mezquita’ great Mosque-Cathedral.

As always, the people we met on the tour and our Travel Department guide, Alex and driver Pepe, enriched the whole experience.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at home, on your return.”

“Happiness is found in the journey and rarely in the destination, alone.”

An image of Travet Dept scheduleof travel.

An image of Travet Dept scheduleof travel. part 2

Back to Europe

Gran Canaria 2023

Gran Canaria in the Spanish Canary Islands

Our Irish opinion of visiting the tourist attractions that Gran Canaria, Spain has to offer.

Link to video image montage of our entire Gran Canaria visit:- https://youtu.be/aBT4X2JfNSg

Travellers to Europe have been faced with soaring temperatures in recent days. This coincides with the most popular time of the year to visit Europe, travel industry insiders say that while extreme weather has caused travel disruptions in the past, particularly in countries not set up to withstand it, this extreme heat can also cause heat exhaustion deaths.

“Is the climate crisis already here?, and will it manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters in the coming years?.”

It adds credence to the long held theory that travellers at this time of year will in future consider more northerly European holiday destinations into the future.

(This blog is not meant to be critical of Gran Canaria as a future holiday destination)

The over riding influence during our recent 2 week trip to Gran Canaria was the extreme high temperatures we experienced for the entire holiday. We visited during July 2023. The whole of North Africa and Southern Europe experienced an un-seasonal heat wave during this time. Normally, at that time, temperatures would be in the high 20’s centigrade. However, during our trip we experienced temperatures in the high 30’s and even into the low 40’s centigrade.

These extreme temperatures are not really conducive to a comfortable sun holiday. Instead, a northern European holiday maker is advised to stay out of the direct rays of the sun between the hours of 11:00am and 17:00 during the hottest part of each day. Allied to the lack of any cooling winds, the only really comfortable place to spend peak heat hours is in the shade on the beach or alternatively indoors in air conditioning.

Likewise, taking any of the huge variety of tourist trips was not an option for us. However, based on our previous visits to Gran Canaria we can still relate our overall observations of the island experience and make recommendations based on our previous trips to the island.

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023

Gran Canaria is one of the eight volcanic Canary Islands in Spain, it is located off the northwestern coast of Africa, in the Atlantic Ocean. Even though geographically it is closer to Morocco and the African continent, it is part of Spain but not classed as part of the EU.

We have visited Gran Canaria and the other Canary Islands many times during our Irish winters. Generally in the months of September to March, the actual timing depending on the severity of the Irish weather. The climate, during these months, is always temperate and sunny and ideal for a beach style winter break from Ireland.

These trips, to any of the islands of the Canary Islands, would be regarded as a rest and recuperation type holiday with relatively very little activity required.

Our recent trip was for 14 nights, staying in the five star El Greco hotel in Puerto Rico, which is situated on the south west coastline, about a 45 minute transfer from the airport.

We have stayed in the El Greco hotel many times over the years. It is a wonderful hotel, situated right across the road from the beach. We dined out every night in a different restaurant - Italian, French, Chinese, Thai and traditional Spanish cuisine. All our meals were excellent and reasonably priced in comparison to Dublin prices. The hotel typically has a very high concentration of Northern European guests.

Day trips are available to all the tourist spots on the island if a visitor wants to get a sense of this small island within the Canary island group situated on the Eastern edge of the Atlantic almost abutting Africa.

After 14 nights at the 5 star El greco Hotel we flew directly back to the cold and wet of Dublin.

Our Observations from our July 2023 trip:-

- The island of Gran Canaria is very multicultural;

- It is a duty-free island……..part of Spain but not in the EU;

- You need to ware flip flops on the beach when the weather is very hot………..unless you prefer you get your feet burnt;

- The islanders are very accustomed to tourists and tourist interactions and are very friendly;

- If you hire a car, the road infrastructure is good, particularly the main coastal route circumnavigating the majority of the island’s coastline.

- If you visit during the winter months of October to March, be prepared for inflated prices to match Scandinavian tourists’ disposable incomes;

- They have all kinds of restaurants as a result to their multicultural resident and tourist population, and the quality of local cuisine is generally very good;

-Due to the ‘all year round good weather’, foreign property ownership is on the rise;

- If you intend to reside long-term on the island, be sure to reside in a residential area and not a tourist area. The reason for this is two-fold (1) cheaper to reside in residential locations (2) life in a residential area conforms better to a standard working week type life style. Life in a tourist area is generally denoted by tourists burning the candle at both ends, usually noisy;

- The island caters for all tourist budgets from 1 star to 5 star;

- If wheel chair bound the footpaths can be a real challenge, featuring lots of areas of weather destruction to the tile covering and dangerously steep roadside sloping;

- Supermarkets on the island are very well stocked;

- The island has embraced renewable energy production from both wind and solar;

- Travelling from an EU 27 member States country, the Canary Islands are classed as duty-free, as such, perfumes and cigarettes etc are considerably cheaper than those available within the EU.

Things to do while visiting Gran Canaria:-

Visit the unique Maspalomas Dunes

Probably the most beautiful place in the south of the island is the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, covering over 400 hectares. It might be said that the sand arrived here from the Sahara, but that is not true. The sand was deposited during the ice age and the wind created the dunes you see today.

The dune system is one of the most important natural spots in Gran Canaria and it has suffered degradation with a constant loss of sand, mainly due to urban development and human impact. To protect the dunes, Gran Canaria is limiting access to the public. People can still visit the dunes but only via the marked walking paths.

Puerto Rico, where we based ourselves is in the south-west of the island. We stayed in El Greco Hotel, where we had a really lovely two-bedroomed bungalow, nestled in a tropical garden and across the road from the beach, with AC, a small but well fitted-out kitchen, a pool and a poolside jacuzzi. Walk out to the Puerto Rico beach from where a lovely beach promenade will lead you along the cliff face to a man-made bay – Playa Amadores. Take a dip or just chill in the warm sun, then grab something to eat and soak in the energy of the drowning sun.

Visit close by Puerto de Mogan. If you’re here in early summer, everything will be in full bloom. The white houses have colourful edges, which match the endless sea of flowers. The swimming here in the bay and the marina are great and not too crowded.

Stroll around Las Palmas old Town

Las Palmas is the main city in Gran Canaria, and it is the largest city in the Canary Islands. This city, with more than 500 years of history, has a lot to offer. One of the best things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is to stroll around the old town which is divided into two parts: Vegueta and Triana.

Vegueta was the original settlement where life in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria began. In this part of the town, you will find the main historical buildings and museums. Did you know that Christofer Columbus lived here for a short while before heading to America. His home is now a museum, called Casa de Colon, and it is open to the public. The best way to explore Vegueta is to join the walking tour with a local guide.

Triana is the posh side of Las Palmas and it is the shopping Mecca of the region, with its vast array of shops, restaurants and markets.

The most impressive building in Las Palma is the Cathedral of Santa Ana. For a small entrance fee you can go up the bell tower to have a panoramic view of the city. For those who cannot make the stairs, a lift takes you to the top as well. The Cathedral of Santa Ana was the first church on the Canary Islands and it is worth visiting,

Things to do in Las Palmas

Climb the Santa Ana Cathedral for a different perspective of the City;
Visit the Museo Casa de Colón;
Visit the Vegueta and Triana neighbourhoods;
Visit the colourful houses of San Juan from the San Roque neighbourhood;
Relax in the warm sand of Playa Grande beach;
Stroll along the Las Canteras seafront;
Enjoy the sunset from the Mirador de la Cruz;
There are photo opportunities all around Las Palmas.

For the wine lovers

Bodega Señorío de Cabrera is a small hillside vineyard located on the outskirts of Telde on the east side of the island. Be sure to take the tour and tasting, it is well worth a visit.

Sample Delicious Rum at Arehucas Rum Distillery

Located next to the Arucas town, you will find Arehucas Rum Distillery, one of the oldest rum cellars in Europe which has been producing rum since 1884. It started as the sugar factory San Pedro and later became a distillery.

Arehucas Rum Distillery now produces some of the finest rums in Europe and it is worth a visit.

San Pedro, the only coffee plantation in Europe is situated in Finca los Canstanos. Be advised that the opening hours are limited. Be sure to take the tour and tasting, especially if you’re an avid coffee drinker.

A sense of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023

The official currency of Gran Canaria, Spain is the Euro.

If you get an opportunity during your travels in Gran Canaria, hike to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak on the island.

Our general experience of the people from Gran Canaria, Spain is that they are very friendly and they all seem to have a particular liking for small children. The taxies are very reasonable and frequent. The shops and the restaurants are all clean, up to date and very inviting. The street sellers were non pushy and in no way intimidating. Once in the hotel itself, El Greco, it could not be faulted for service and the general excellent of the guest experience.

Recommendations for Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023

There is no language barrier, if you speak only English. The vast majority of both young and old Spaniards speak English.

So it lends itself to undertaking trips that can be self directed. The hire cost of a car is very cheap in comparison to Irish prices.

Our must see recommendation for a trip to Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023:-

(1) Our visit to Gran Canaria’s multitude of excellent restaurants is the highlight of our trips there.

(2) Our second choice would a hire car self directed tour the island. The island itself is very small and a complete circumnavigation is eminently possible in one days driving, even allowing form generous stops on the way.

(3) If you are eating out in Puerto Rico, our recommendation is to eat at Fusion Nube restaurant.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at your home, on your return.”

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In the spirit of staying abreast of the new emerging generative Artificial Intelligence products, we asked ChatGPT to write a Blog for us about Gran Canaria. For the purpose of comparison, here is the question we posed to ChatGPT and its answer in return.

A Chatgpt AI generated blog text

Our command line question that we posed to ChatGPT:-

AI Query:- write a travel blog on Gran Canaria in the style of https://www.justretired50plus.com

ChatGPT’s answer to our query:-

Title: Exploring Gran Canaria: A Tropical Paradise for Adventurous Souls

Introduction:

Welcome to the vibrant and breathtaking island of Gran Canaria! Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this enchanting destination offers a world of adventures, picturesque landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you seek golden beaches, dramatic mountains, or bustling towns, Gran Canaria has something for everyone. Join me on an unforgettable journey as we delve into the heart of this captivating island and discover its hidden gems.

Day 1: Embracing the Island's Natural Beauty

Our adventure begins with the exploration of Gran Canaria's natural wonders. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Roque Nublo, a magnificent volcanic rock formation that stands proudly amidst lush forests and breathtaking views. As you hike up to its summit, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment and awe as you take in the panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Afterward, head to Maspalomas, known for its stunning sand dunes and pristine beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, feel the soft sand between your toes, and bask in the warm sunshine. Don't forget to capture the perfect sunset photo as the golden hues paint the sky in a mesmerizing display.

Day 2: Discovering Historic Towns and Charming Villages

Today, let's immerse ourselves in Gran Canaria's rich history and authentic culture. Start by visiting the charming old town of Vegueta in Las Palmas, the island's capital. Wander through its cobbled streets lined with colonial-style houses, visit the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana, and explore the intriguing museums showcasing the island's past.

For a taste of local life, venture to the picturesque village of Teror. Admire the traditional Canarian architecture, visit the Basilica de la Virgen del Pino, and explore the bustling Sunday market where you can sample delicious local produce and handcrafted souvenirs.

Day 3: Unleashing the Adventurer Within

Gran Canaria is a paradise for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, let's embrace our adventurous spirit and explore the island's diverse landscape. Embark on a thrilling off-road jeep safari through the rugged interior, where you'll witness stunning canyons, lush valleys, and hidden villages.

If you're up for a challenge, head to the picturesque village of Tejeda and hike to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak on the island. From the top, marvel at the sweeping views of the volcanic terrain, rolling hills, and shimmering coastline that stretch before you.

Day 4: Indulging in Culinary Delights

No travel experience is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Gran Canaria offers a delectable fusion of flavors influenced by its Spanish and African heritage. Start your culinary adventure by sampling the island's traditional dish, papas arrugadas, wrinkled potatoes served with mouthwatering mojo sauces.

For seafood lovers, head to the coastal town of Puerto de Mogán and indulge in a seafood feast at one of the charming waterfront restaurants. Savor the freshest catches of the day while admiring the picturesque harbor views.

Conclusion:

Gran Canaria truly captures the essence of a tropical paradise, combining natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, embarking on exciting outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the island's vibrant culture, Gran Canaria offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So pack your bags, prepare for new discoveries, and let Gran Canaria's enchantment unfold before you.

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Back to Europe

Menorca

Menorca in the Spanish Balearic Islands

Our Irish opinion of a two week vacation in Menorca, Spain. Menorca is the second biggest island of the Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean Sea.

In brief, our 14 day Menorca trip was as follows:

Day 1- 4: Mahon (Mao), the modern day capital of Menorca;
Day 4 - 8: Ciutadella, the historical capital of Menorca
Day 8 - 14: Cala Galdana, for a week long beach holiday;
Day 14: Return flight from Mahon to Dublin.

Link to a stills image and video montage of our two week trip around the island of Menorca in the Balearic Islands

To view the video select:- https://youtu.be/vJpxH4dEH6k

Mahon in Menorca (Video) https://youtu.be/oruwB60VURE

Ciutadella in Menorca (Video) https://youtu.be/Rb2DNn2afbc

Cala Galdana in Menorca (Video) https://youtu.be/Ky-DsO9451Y

A casual cycling tour south of Mahon on the island of Menorca (Video). https://youtu.be/qTwyxX9Lp_o

A Xoriguer Gin factory tour (Video). https://youtu.be/YeuivcPpt4o

A sense of the Spanish island of Menorca

The official currency of Menorca is the Euro.

This small island north west of the more famous island of Mallorca controls its tourist access and impacts by having nearly 50% of its land protected. It is also a UNESCO declared Biosfere Reserve. This makes this island spotless and a paradise for the tranquil traveller.

With over 130 sandy beaches, Menorca is a wonderful destination for the beach and nature lovers. While the beaches in the north are more wild, the southern beaches are white and reminded us of the Caribbean. It is a fantastic destination for families visiting Europe.

Recommendations for a fourteen day trip around the Spanish island of Menorca

There is no language barrier, if you speak only English, however, the people of Menorca really appreciate if you make an effort to converse, even in rudimentary Spanish.

As a general rule, drive on the right, pass on the left, and don’t be shy about stopping to view the many scenic photo opportunities along the way.

Remember to explore Menorca’s charming towns, such as Mahon and Ciutadella, which have well-maintained cycling paths. So hop on your bike, breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air, and let Menorca’s beauty unfold before you!

Geographically speaking, Menorca is small and distances between locations are fairly short, but driving times in Menorca are often longer than you would think. The most beautiful parts of Menorca are often along remote coastlines and take the longest to reach. So in order to experience the island properly, do not expect to see all of Menorca in seven days. There are a number of ways to get around Menorca, Public transport, Car hire, Bike hire, Taxi hire and boat rental.

One of the best ways to see Menorca is to self-drive along the narrow roads of villages and country lanes, with the main spinal arterial road running East / West between the cities of Mahón and Ciutadella. You’ll have the flexibility to stop off along the roadside at whatever takes your fancy.

The roads are well sign posted, and they drive on the right in left hand drive vehicles. If you’re comfortable with that concept, then you will be absolutely fine.

Cute, colourful villages make for great pit stops and photo opportunities at every turn.

Our two week trip around Menorca

Our Two-Week Adventure on the Tranquil Island of Menorca

Introduction

Welcome to the Balearic gem that is Menorca! As an Irish couple with a passion for travel, we embarked on a two-week journey to this enchanting island. Menorca, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Mallorca and Ibiza, has a unique charm that captivated us from the moment we stepped off the plane. So, let’s dive into our Menorcan escapade, inspired by the spirit of all our JustRetired50Plus worldwide travel blogs.

Our two week trip around Menorca

Day 1: Arrival in Mahón (Maó)

Getting There

We flew into Menorca Airport (also known as Mahón (Maó) Airport) – the island’s sole gateway. Conveniently located near the capital city of Mahón, it’s a breeze to find flights from various European and British airlines.

The capital of Menorca, Mahon is home to everything from a gin distillery to a fish market and one of the largest natural harbours in the world.

Days 1-4: Eastern Adventures

Mahón: Our base for the first few days. We explored the charming old town, sipped gin, and marvelled at the Georgian architecture along the harbour. We have no hesitation is recommending Xoriguer Gin factory tour as an excellent mornings entertainment.
The Fish Market s situated right in the centre of the old town. It is a central focal point for locals and tourists alike to meet, chat and savour the the very Spanish presented ‘Friut de Mare’.
Menorcan Gin. We couldn’t visit Menorca without tasting Xoriguer Gin, a local specialty. The distillery in Mahón has been producing this unique gin since the 18th century. During our trip we had a sunset ritual every evening where we found a spot along the coast to watch the sun dip into the. Mediterranean. The colours were mesmerising – a fitting end to each of our Menorcan adventures accompanied by either Gin Cocktails or Sangria.
Take one of the many boat trips available in the Port of Mahon.
Es Castell: A short drive away, this sleepy town surprised us with its British influence – remnants of the 18th-century occupation. Don’t miss Fort Marlborough overlooking the sea.
Binibeca: A charming fishing village with whitewashed houses and narrow alleys.

Days 4-9: Western Adventures

Ciutadella and Beyond

We took a one hour public bus ride from Mahón central bus station to the western side of the island, where Ciutadella awaited us. This historic city stole our hearts with its labyrinthine streets and Gothic cathedral. During our 5 nights there we stayed at the adults only Artiem Audax hotel, right across the street from a gorgeous sandy beach.

Unmissable Experiences

Plaça des Born: Ciutadella’s main square, surrounded by neoclassical buildings.
Castell de Sant Nicolau: Climb up for panoramic views of the harbour.
Cala Pregonda: A rugged beach with red cliffs – a photographer’s dream.

Ciutadella’s historic centre was a highlight on our Menorca itinerary. Its stunning city hall, 19th-century palaces of Salort and Torre-Saura, and 14th-century Santa Maria of Ciutadella Cathedral are all well preserved, architectural gems. Our visit coincided with their feast of St John celebrations, taking place during the last week of June each year. You can experience the real sense of community that the people of Ciutadella have, allied to a man roaming the streets dressed as a sheep and open air displays of fabulous horsemanship. While in Ciutadella we also visited their gothic Cathedral built on the original site of a mosque; the Diocesan Museum located in the church and convent of Socors; the ancient Real Alcazar and the town hall.

Days 9-14: Southern Beaches and Hidden Coves

Cala Galdana

We choose Cala Galdana as our location to experience Menorca’s coastline locations. Galdana was only a 25 minute bus journey, on the 52 bus, from Ciutadella. The island boasts over 70 paradise like beaches and Calas (small coves), each more beautiful than the last.

Galdana has more than 14 different restaurants to choose from. These eateries cater for all types of diets and preferences.

Cala Galdana, is regarded as one of the best beaches in Menorca, with its aquamarine water and glistening sandy beach, and getting out on the waves is both fun and exciting.

What's the best way to explore Menorca by bike?

Cycling in Menorca offers a delightful way to explore this Balearic gem. Whether you’re a leisurely rider or an adventurous cyclist, Menorca has something for everyone. Here are some top cycling routes to consider:

Cavalleria Lighthouse Circular Route: This 39.4 km ride near Ferreries and Es Mercadal takes you through picturesque landscapes. Expect paved surfaces and a moderate level of difficulty1.
Faro de Favàritx and Talatí de Dalt: Explore the Parque Natural de s’Albufera des Grau on this 44.3 km intermediate ride. Enjoy coastal views and ancient talayotic settlements1.
Torre de Alcaufar and Mirador de Punta Prima: A gentle 26.3 km route along the Menorca cycling trail. Mostly paved surfaces and suitable for all skill levels1.
Faro de Punta Nati and Cala Morell: For the adventurous, this 45.3 km gravel ride on Camí de Cavalls offers stunning coastal vistas. Be prepared for some challenging sections1.
Cala de Santandria and Cala Blanca: An easy 27.7 km ride along Camí de Cavalls. Perfect for all fitness levels and mostly on paved surfaces1.

Modern day Menorca is a product of its ancient geological heritage

If you envision an underground line (from Mahon to Ciutadella) splitting the island geologically into north and south of the line. North of the line region is characterised for having the most ancient materials of the island and is therefore more roughed and less populated. South of the line, the mainly limestone rocks forming an almost horizontal platform with a slight incline towards the sea, carved out by numerous gullies which have dissolved the rock and developed a fluvial network which flows out into beautiful coves. Consequently, the south coast is more accessible and thus more populated.

Our must see recommendation for a trip around the island of Menorca, Spain

(1) The cities of Mahon and Ciutadella are architectural and cultural delights;

(2) Plan your trip to the island around one of its many festivals;

(3) With over 130 sandy beaches, there is a beach type for all appetites;

(4) If you get a chance, cycle anyone of the many cycle routes available to suit all skill and ability levels.

With the American Dollar parity to the Euro during our trip in June 2024, there has rarely been a better time to visit Menorca.

Conclusion

Menorca, with its low-key vibe, pristine beaches, and rich history, left an indelible mark on our souls. Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, this Balearic jewel won’t disappoint. So, as the sun sets over Menorca, we say, “Hasta luego, until next time!”

Note: All opinions and recommendations expressed are our own, devoid of any possible coercive sponsorship or advertising funding.

“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at your home, on your return.”

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