THE SEARCH FOR CANARIES IS ON
Greetings from Gran Canaria, one of seven major islands in the Canary Island archipelago. The Canaries are politically a part of Spain and seem very European, but are just off the coast of Africa. Western Sahara is really the closest other country and is only 90 miles away. This all makes for a scenic look that is hard to categorize. Nicely unique.
I arrived here on a rainy day which seemed to not be a big deal until I was told that it was the first rain of the 2017 year. After one more overcast day, today was glorious, sunny and warm. No wonder so many Europeans come here in the winter! And do they ever come here. I am in Playa del Ingles, one of the main areas for beaches and such. The town is totally about tourism, sort of a cross between Miami and Honolulu. And very gay, so I guess you could throw Palm Springs into the mix as well. But, it seems to work just fine. Everyone goes to the Yumbo Center, a weird 1980’s style outdoor shopping area. About 1/3 retail, 1/3 restaurants, and 1/3 gay bars. You can do anything from play miniature golf to dine in at least 50 different establishments, to hang out in one of the many bars of all sorts.
My next post will be about my first trip into the rugged interior of the island.
Sunset view from my room. Looking out to the dunes area. The next two shots are with my IPhone crossing the dunes to the gay beach. Believe me, the route to and from was also quite gay. I just cropped accordingly…..
Sort of a weird family-like sign for entry into what is mostly a very adult play area.
Yes, on the top level, that is a miniature golf place. I did not think that even existed any more, but it was popular here. Right below are two levels of drag show bars, and cruising bars. This has to be one of the weirdest places I have ever seen. But, if I were to look to the right there are shops, restaurants, and all sorts of normal places for tourists.
Dan – it is amazing to just sit and take all of this in. I can’t decide whether to be happy or jealous! I will look through these all several times and dream as I imagine how exciting the trips must be for you! Anxious to hear your first had reports. More comments to come – you are teaching us all how it’s done. 2018 book please!!
Another trip well done Dan. I can almost feel the tranquility in many of those shots. Wherever there is color it seems to pop. I especially like the colors of the lichens on the side of that barren mountain.
I think the bananas may be covered to speed up ripening and/or to keep pests out. Just a guess.