Rock Nublo-the highest point in Gran Canary

Few days ago when we were in Tejeda we could not hike the highest peak as the whole area was covered by fog,so today we decided to go back and do it,and the weather was just perfect and clear.

To get to Rock Nublo (South of Tejeda) we had to use  local windy narrow ,2 way roads as most of the inland roads,the views along the route were stunning and we stopped to take it all in whenever we could.

The distance from our place in Las Palmas to the Rock is only 30 Miles but it took us almost 2 hours with stops in the view points and because of the 2 way road where some times we had to back up and let a bus or another vehicle pass.

Finally we arrived to Rock Nublo,it took us “only” 3 attempts to park in the parking area that is very small and there is no way to park  along the road ,so we had to pass the parking lot ,turn around on the narrow road and head back hoping some one will leave just in time for us to squeeze in.

From the parking lot it is a 1Mile hike straight up the the Rock,but it is worth the effort.

Tenerife the biggest of the Canary Islands can be seen at the background.

360 degrees views can be seen from the top,we sat on top facing a great scenery ,pulled a sandwich and a beer from our pouch and smelled a sweet aroma carried by the wind coming from the direction of 3 guys smoking weed….what a combo…

On the way back we had a great lunch ,Shula had grilled fresh fish and a cream soup,I had pork chops with salad and a beer,we also shared a local ice cream ,all for 22 Euro including tip….this is cheap from where I come from.

We took a different road to get back “home” stopping at view points and in a small coffee bar for a cappuccino and got down from the mountains before dark (that is very important).

I do not know if this was the “cherry “ on top of the cake but it sure was close.

Great Street Carnival Las Palmas

It looks like this Island lives to enjoy life ,after all the celebrations we attended in the last week this was sure a very powerful performance by  the Islanders.

Every one ,no matter fat,skinny,beautiful,ugly ,old or young was in the streets having fun.

Allot of effort was invested in the costumes and the make up,they took it very seriously and it was easy to get connected and get moving with the beat.

The parade started at 5PM from the center of the old city all the way to the Port in the North side of Las Palmas,I do not know when it ended because at 10PM we couldn't take the noise any more and stand on the little bench we found to be able to take some pictures.

At first groups on foot walked the streets,each one with different music and moves but every one was smiling,happy and enjoying himself.

The beauty queens were on a platform pulled by a 4X4 and very brave having almost nothing to wear in this cool weather, I hope they did  not get ammonia.

Then came the big trucks carrying liquor on board ,load speakers with high volume music and groups of happy half drunk people.

Following each truck were crowds with costumes singing the songs played from the vehicles,all in good mood and in order.

It looked like the whole Island was marching the streets either as a performer ,on the side walk or on the balcony of the buildings along the route.

Some of the audience were still young to understand what is going on but they were there with the  parents and one day they will be marching.

It was a strong,colourful,happy and a laud parade,every one was willing to pose for a picture with or with out one from the crowd I have never seen such an event and sure are happy we did.

And here are some well known characters from the past.

Accordingly to the internet these celebrations will go on and off till Spring…..Wow,one thing is sure booze shops are having a ball…

Beauty contest Las Palmas Gran Canarias

The beauty contest as a part of the on going February Carnival took place in a huge amphitheater park near the Port of Las Palmas an event that started at 9PM and ended at 1AM –and it was spectacular.

We were considered about the rain but the locals said that it rarely rains and if so only for a few minutes, in any case we had our light rain coats with us (Hope for the best but be ready for the worst),and we were glad we had them handy as it did rain lightly periodically.

We had to purchase tickets for this event (10 Euro per person)at  the kiosk near by opened that opened at 5PM ,so we parked in a garage in the area (very expensive) got the tickets and  strolled the beach area to “kill” some time till the extravaganza starts.

As we are having our Cappuccino with full wheat bagel we experienced one of the most fantastic sunsets ever,luckily I have my camera on stand by bases at all times, I would not want to miss this one.

 

The Piazza in front of the park was full with food boots and decorating lights and gave the right atmosphere before the show.

Before entering the arena we took a bite at the local food boot one of many located at the entrance ,their fast food diet is mostly Fish,Meat ,Sausages Potatoes and of course beer what made it difficult for us to grab some some thing on the go,but finally we found someone that talked English and he prepared some salad for us with a fish sandwich.

It started on time with a worm up for the main event with a story of Aladdin and the 40 thieves.

The colors,customs and the music were great ,people were dancing at their sits,clapping hands and singing like there is no tommorow.

Everything worked as a Swiss clock and very smoothly

After a short break came the main event and 10 beautiful girls came one by one on the stage with these phenomenon ,gorgeous dress built on a platform with wheels letting them walk from the entrance to the stage with no help,turn around and go back all during hit songs and support from the audience, there is no way I can describe the customs but bring them pictures up.

   

   

Click to enlarge…

And the winner is…who cares they were all winners,beautiful and happy.

This small Island really knows how to put a show,well organized,on time and no hassle at all although there were thousands of people going in and out,even to the bathroom there was a organized line….

I believe this show could easily go to Vegas.

We hit the sack at 2AM and were happy to learn that the Great Parade will take place on the next day starting at 5PM what gives us time to sleep it over.