Latest news with #Lanzarote
Forbes
23-07-2025
- Science
- Forbes
Ocean Warming Throws Angelshark Mating Out Of Sync
As seas heat up, female angelsharks are prioritizing survival over reproduction, leaving their male ... More counterparts waiting alone at breeding sites. getty In the warming waters of the Canary Islands, female angelsharks are making a difficult choice: either skip the mating season, or risk overheating. New research reveals that rising ocean temperatures are disrupting the natural mating patterns of these Critically Endangered sharks, potentially jeopardizing the future of the species. The study, led by scientists from Lancaster University and the Angel Shark Project: Canary Islands, used acoustic tracking to monitor the movements of more than 100 individual angelsharks between 2018 and 2023. Over those five years, researchers consistently found both males and females gathering in the La Graciosa Marine Reserve off Lanzarote each November and December. But 2022 broke the pattern. It was in this year that an extreme marine heatwave pushed sea surface temperatures above 74.8°F (23.8°C), with conditions staying hotter than 72.5°F (22.5°C) nearly three times longer than usual. This heatwave overlapped with the angelsharks' entire breeding season, which typically kicks off in late autumn when waters are cooler. The result? While male presence peaked on schedule, female sightings were scarce. In fact, females largely abandoned the species' traditional mating grounds, and the data showed a strong link between female angelshark activity and cooler water, suggesting that 72.5°F (22.5°C) may be close to their upper thermal limit. Dr David Jacoby, Principal Investigator from Lancaster University, likened these marine heatwaves to 'wildfires of the ocean,' with far-reaching impacts that are only beginning to be understood. Why does this matter? Angelsharks, like most sharks, are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature depends on the surrounding water. Unlike males, who seemed determined to find a mate regardless of conditions, females may be more sensitive to temperature spikes due to the energy demands of reproduction. Carrying and developing young requires a lot of metabolic regulation, and excess heat may push their physiology past a safe threshold. Faced with the choice between reproduction and self-preservation… the females appear to be choosing the latter. Jacoby noted that the observed behavioral differences between sexes during extreme temperature events could have serious implications for the species, and lead author of the study Dr. Lucy Mead, a researcher at ZSL's Institute of Zoology and Lancaster University, agreed: 'The fact that environmental extremes are driving differing male and female arrival times at coastal mating sites is of particular concern for this Critically Endangered species.' Squatina squatina, commonly known as the angelshark, is a Critically Endangered species of shark ... More that looks more like a ray due to its flattened body and broad pectoral fins. It's a bottom-dwelling species once commonly found along the northeast Atlantic coast, from Scandinavia to northwest Africa, including the Mediterranean Sea. Today, it's vanished from much of its former range. getty The Canary Islands represent one of the last strongholds for angelsharks ( Squatina squatina ), which were once widespread across European coasts but have now vanished from much of their former range. Here, adults and juveniles are still regularly seen, and the species has become a flagship for the local diving tourism industry. But even in this refuge, sightings are becoming less reliable. In just a few years, the number of hot days in the region has steadily increased from 30 days above 72.5°F (22.5°C) in 2019 to 85 such days in 2022. These elevated temperatures now extend well into what used to be the cooler season, narrowing the window when mating can safely occur. 'Our concern is that key areas may become inhospitable for females,' Mead said. 'These findings have important implications for how we conserve this highly threatened species in a warming world.' The team believes conservation strategies must begin factoring in these behavioral shifts, especially as climate extremes become more frequent and severe. And co-lead Eva Meyers from the Leibniz Institute stressed that this research underscores why long-term monitoring of critical habitats like the Canary Islands is so vital. 'These findings are a reminder of how climate extremes are already reshaping the behaviour of threatened marine species,' Meyers stressed, calling for more urgent protection of these areas, not only for angelsharks but for the broader marine ecosystems they support. Angelsharks are ambush predators that help maintain balance in coastal food webs, so if their populations collapse, the effects could ripple outward in unpredictable ways. 'It's important to understand how changes in the ocean's physicochemical conditions can affect the [all] species that inhabit coastal ecosystems,' agreed Dr. David Jiménez Alvarado of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. 'These environmental shifts may alter the habitat use and behaviour of key predatory species that play a crucial role in maintaining trophic balance. Since many of these species are already globally threatened, studying how climate-related stressors impact their ecological function is essential for developing effective conservation and management strategies.' For threatened marine species like the angelshark, which are already teetering on the brink, even small shifts in behavior can have large consequences. As the world focuses on land-based climate impacts, it's easy to overlook what's happening beneath the waves. But the ocean is warming too — and quickly. The choices angelsharks are making now, between mating and survival, reflect a sinister truth: marine life is adapting… but not always in ways that ensure its future. If we're serious about conserving ocean biodiversity, we need to pay attention to these warning signs and act before more species are pushed past their limits.
The Independent
22-07-2025
- The Independent
The best hotels in Lanzarote for spas, families and all-inclusive holidays
Forget everything you think you know about Lanzarote. Gone are the days of its 'Lanzagrotty' moniker, in exchange for exceptional value stays, high-end luxury hotels, oh-so-cool rural retreats and a grown-up sophistication thanks to its tourism know-how. The government made a conscious effort a decade or so ago to combat the mass tourism that was plaguing the major resorts and has invested in improving facilities across the island. To match, hotels, apartments, villas and B&Bs have upped their game too. But Lanzarote is not an expensive destination and there is incredible value to be had for family holidays, romantic getaways, luxury stays, and sunny beach breaks. The island's popular resorts such as Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are packed with family-friendly facilities and amenities, watersports and long promenades to while away the hours. Lanzarote also has around 100 beaches to choose from with both golden and black sand. For the best luxury hotels in Lanzarote, the best budget hotels in Lanzarote and the best family hotels in Lanzarote, see our guides. Best hotels in Lanzarote 2025 At a glance 1. Hotel Fariones Puerto del Carmen The Hotel Fariones has legendary status, as it was one of the first proper hotels to be built on the island in the 1960s. It went through a complete transformation in 2020 and has remerged once again as the go-to for visiting elite, from heads of state to movie stars – although the guest book is kept strictly hush-hush. You can tell its history, as popular Playa del Carmen essentially grew up around, so it occupies the best seafront location. While this is a family-friendly and pet-friendly hotel, it has a grown-up feel, with the effortlessly cool design eye of Canarian interior designer Rafael del Castillo touching every corner. All 213 rooms and suites have sea views, and there are adapted junior suites for those with reduced mobility. As well as a spa, there are stand-out dining options and even tours to the hotel's own winery. Address: Calle Roque del Este, 1, 35510 Lanzarote, Las Palmas 2. Hotel Palacio Ico, Villa de Teguise If you're not necessarily looking to be by the coast, then Hotel Palacio Ico might be a good shout. It's located in the beautiful old town of the island's former capital of Villa de Teguise. These days, the town is famous for its weekly market where you can stock up on local produce, handicrafts and souvenirs. The hotel itself is a Canarian manor house dating from 1690 that's been sympathetically converted into a boutique hotel of just nine gorgeous rooms – each with its own style, but all with wonderful original features. Food is served here at the Michelin-recommended in-house restaurant overseen by chef Víctor Valverde. It offers tasting menus that make the most of seasonal, local produce. Address: C. el Rayo, 2, 35530 Teguise, Las Palmas 3. Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada hotel, Playa Blanca This is very much a resort hotel with multiple wings to the main building right on the golden sands of Playa Dorada. Choice is of the essence with several board and room types and both family-friendly and adults-only areas. Club-level ocean view rooms and suites top the list of the most covetable rooms affording mesmerising views of neighbouring Fuerteventura and Isla de Lobos, plus the benefits of Preferred Club status, where you gain entry to extra pool areas, restaurants and lounges. For kids, there's a waterpark, and for adults, a soothing spa and a range of activities such as yoga. The hotel is also moments from Playa Blanca town and Marina Rubicón. Address: Av. de Papagayo, 24, 35580 Playa Blanca, Las Palmas 4. Jardines del Sol hotel, Playa Blanca To say that these are apartments is to sell them short, as the accommodation at Jardines del Sol is made up of white-washed bungalows. They are all extremely well equipped – so much so, you could easily live in them – with full kitchens, including washing machines and dishwashers, spacious lounge-diners and private sun terraces. They also benefit from filter taps in the kitchen to cut down on buying the usually necessary bottled water. There are three pools – one for kids, a restaurant and bar, plus beautiful gardens, and all are around a 20-minute stroll to the main strip of Playa Blanca. 5. Finca Malvasia hotel, Tías This stunning group of apartments, suites and a villa is set amongst the vines of the prestigious La Geria wine region. Opened by two designers from London, the hotel beautifully and sympathetically blends the volcanic landscape with all mod-cons in a stylish mid-century vibe. All accommodation options come with private terraces with views over the lunar-like countryside. The kitchenettes are well equipped and there are BBQ areas for dining al fresco. Special details include a Lanzarote guide curated by the owners. The hotel can also arrange wellness treatments on site and off-site wine tasting, walking and surfing excursions. 6. Barceló Teguise Beach hotel, Costa Teguise As locations go, you can't get much better than this, as it is on the beachfront and bang in the middle of the Costa Teguise resort. The intimate thermal spa circuit is well worth the €10 entry fee, and there are soothing treatments also available, as well as a small but bright and airy gym. Opt to go all-inclusive to give you free range of both the buffet and à la carte restaurants on site, plus your usual all-in drinks and snacks. Rooms and suites are a vision of white, and some come with balcony hot tubs and far-reaching sea views. Don't miss the hotel's dedicated playlists, including a selection of four-minute shower songs. Check-in comes with a complimentary glass of cava to start your holiday off on the right foot. The weekly market is a short stroll behind the hotel, and one of the island's best restaurants, SeBe, is just a 10-minute walk away. Address: Pl. el Janubio, 1, 35508 Costa Teguise, Las Palmas 7. Cesar Lanzarote hotel, La Asomada One of the new breed of luxe rural Lanzarote hotels, Cesar Lanzarote – a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts – could be the star in any Wes Anderson movie. Former home to the parents of local starchitect César Manrique, the design-forward hotel brims with artistic touches, from frilled lampshades and candy-stripe sun loungers, to natural wood and raffia room decorations. Views from the pool terrace, which also includes an outdoor gym, stretch to the sea and mountains across the palm and vine-dotted gardens. Rooms and suites are cosy and comfortable with walk-in showers, some of which include dreamy stand-alone baths, and all come with private terraces. The Cesar restaurant serves an à la carte lunch menu and seasonal, local tasting menu in the evening – it's also where the à la carte and buffet breakfast is served. 8. Paradisus by Meliá Salinas Lanzarote hotel, Costa Teguise The Paradisus brand by Meliá has really nailed the modern all-inclusive with their Destination-inclusive offering. It means that you not only get to enjoy classic all-in benefits such as restaurants and bars, but also cultural activities that connect you to the destination around you. In the case of the adults-only Salinas Lanzarote, it includes local wine tastings, Manrique architecture tours and volcanic experiences. If you're here for relaxation, you'll find Playa de los Charcos and Playa de las Cucharas beaches on your doorstep. For a special occasion, opt for The Reserve suites and villas, where you'll have exclusive access to private pools, lounges and more. There are fully accessible rooms for those with limited mobility. Address: Av. de las Islas Canarias, s/n, 35508 Costa Teguise, Las Palmas 9. GA7 Colores hotel, Montaña Blanca This LGBTQ+ friendly rural retreat offers a mix of rooms and studios near the famous Montaña Blanca – a good spot for hiking. Set around a tempting swimming pool and sun terrace, rooms are all different in terms of décor but each is chic and comfortable. The studio apartments also come with spacious private enclosed terraces as well as kitchenettes. The hotel is pet friendly and you'll probably meet one or two of the owners' four-legged residents during your stay. You can opt in for dinner, while breakfast is included and served in the airy indoors/outdoors dining room. There's also a bijou spa with hot tub, sauna, and steam room, and massages are available on request. This hotel's calling cards are its laid-back, friendly and inclusive vibe. Address: C. las Rosas, 96, 35559 Montaña Blanca, Las Palmas 10. Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park hotel, Playa Blanca Located plum on the seafront in Playa Blanca means stunning views over the water to Fuerteventura and Isla de Lobos from most of this hotel. Built to resemble three zocos – semicircular constructions used in Lanzarote grapevine growing – the hotel is set up for all sorts of travellers. There's an aquapark, club and two pools specifically for kids, a spa and sports facilities for adults, and a range of dining options including a cool food truck serving hot dogs, ice creams and beers. Guests on the Star Prestige option also enjoy access to an exclusive pool, sun terrace and restaurant areas and other benefits, such as the possibility of late check out. Iberostar prides itself on its sustainability credentials and Lanzarote Park is no exception with zero single-use plastic, 100 per cent renewable electricity and refillable filtered water fountains around the hotel. 11. La Casa de los Naranjos hotel, Haría A beautifully restored 19th-century Canarian manor house turned boutique hotel, La Casa de los Naranjos (House of the Oranges) has just eight thoughtfully designed rooms with antique furnishings, freestanding bathtubs and sweet little touches that make each room feel unique. The serene communal areas include a traditional Canarian interior patio, an orange grove, a tranquil terrace and Lanzarote's oldest private library, complete with vintage books and an Underwood typewriter. Located in the quiet town of Haría, this place is an escape from the rowdier resorts on the coast. Breakfast is made to order to offer guests a more bespoke service and to limit food waste. Address: Calle Rincón de Aganada, 4, 35520 Haría, Las Palmas, Spain Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert Canary Islands travel writer, Ross Clarke, who used to live in Gran Canaria and has been travelling to the Canary Islands for many years. Ross holds a WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and writes about food and wine for several publications, ensuring a personal and informed perspective. When picking which hotels to include, Ross considered his own experience staying in the hotels and evaluated location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller. FAQs What currency do I need in Lanzarote? The official currency in Lanzarote – and across all of Spain, including the Canary Islands – is the Euro (€). When is the best time of year to visit Lanzarote? The best overall time to visit Lanzarote is the shoulder season of March to May and September to early November. Here, you can expect warm weather (21–27°C), plenty of sunshine and low rainfall, plus fewer tourists and lower prices. June to August is a busier period, with higher temperatures (27–32°C) and hot and dry weather. School holidays also make this a more expensive time. If you're seeking a more active holiday, December to February is an ideal time for walking, cycling and sightseeing, with temperatures of around 18–22°C and cooler evenings. What is the nicest area of Lanzarote? Playa Blanca on the southern coasts is arguably one of the 'nicest' spots in Lanzarote, with a relaxed vibe that's suitable for couples, beautiful beaches and restaurants and ferry access to Fuerteventura. Haría & the northern interior and coast is home to stunning volcanic and coastal landscapes, whitewashed villages and fewer tourists, making it ideal for those seeking a more authentic, local experience. Costa Teguise is a great choice for families and water sports, with calm beaches and a relaxed, resort feel, while La Geria is an inland choice that wine lovers and those seeking a rural retreat will love. Elsewhere, Puerto del Carmen is a lively choice for those seeking nightlife and bars in a destination that's also close to the airport. How to get the best deal Package deals from travel providers like Tui and Jet2holidays can offer affordable holidays that cover everything from flights and accommodation to hotel transfers. Most also offer extra savings – such as single-parent discounts, last-minute deals and free child places – to help bring the cost down. But, if you don't mind a little more planning, you may find that booking your travel and hotel separately is actually cheaper. Booking platforms like Expedia and have thousands of listings all over the world with competitive rates and extra discounts. For example, you can book some of our featured Lanzarote hotels, including the Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park hotel and the Cesar Lanzarote hotel, and save an extra six per cent on your booking using our exclusive Expedia discount code. Here's an extra tip: should you find a cheaper rate, it's also worth checking with the hotel directly to see if they will match the price or offer a discounted rate.
Telegraph
16-07-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
I was £4,000 out of pocket for five months because my travel insurance mistook euros for pounds
Dear Gill, On February 8, the final night of a family holiday in Lanzarote, I became unwell with a violent sickness. At the airport, the following morning, I required wheelchair assistance to reach the gate where staff called for a medical assessment. An ambulance was called and I was taken to hospital where I spent four days recovering from a serious bout of gastroenteritis. My wife liaised with the emergency assistance company nominated by our insurer, Good to Go, with whom I had an annual Gold level policy. We were told that we should pay for the treatment and all costs would be met once we submitted invoices on our return. On my return, I duly completed the claim form and prepared an Excel spreadsheet listing the 29 attachments (invoices, bank statements, medical treatment notes, etc) which were sent by recorded delivery to Global Response (IMG), the insurer's claims handler, on February 14. It is now July and my claim for just under £4,000 remains unpaid. Please can you find out why there has been this inordinate delay. – Paul Furlong Dear Paul, Since Paul's submission in February, IMG's agents have claimed that the delays were due to missing original documents (since found in their offices) and issues with verifying the accuracy of his policy's medical health declaration with his GP's submission. After Paul complained about the delay, IMG's 'Quality Assurance Team' reviewed his case and sent a rambling cut-and-paste letter saying it was waiting for a flight booking confirmation (already supplied) and that there remained disparities between the amounts on the hospital bills and the bank statements supplied. It turned out that the claims handler hadn't clocked that the hospital's bills were in euros and the bank statements were in sterling until Paul pointed out this simple explanation for the discrepancies. I contacted the Ancile Insurance Group (Good to Go Insurance is one of its brand names) and asked it to find out why IMG was taking so long to authorise payment of Paul's claim. Within a week of my complaint, Paul's claim was paid out in full, together with an extra 10 percent in compensation for the mismanagement of his case. Ancile admits there were 'internal administrative errors' and acknowledges that communication could have been clearer. 'We've since addressed the issues raised and have made broader improvements to the claims process,' says a spokesperson, 'including communication, streamlined document handling, and simplified currency conversions'. If you are admitted to hospital abroad, try to obtain a printed signed copy of the doctor's report confirming your illness and treatment and the originals of all paid bills before leaving the hospital, as obtaining copies later can prove troublesome.
The Sun
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
We took our paddling pool to the next level with Lidl's £8.99 floats – they have strawberry, avocado & ice lolly shapes
A WOMAN has raved about Lidl's fun pool floats for making paddling pools even more fun. The bargain hunter said she had popped into the supermarket and walked away with three of their £8.99 'floaties.' 3 3 She told fellow shoppers how impressed she was at their size, and said: "Wasn't expecting them to be as big as they are.' The Lidl pool floats also come in a range of fun designs. Taking to the Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK, she shared: 'They have all shapes, we got the strawberry, avocado and ice lolly shape.' She also uploaded a photo of the inflatable strawberry float, and then showed it in action all blown up in her paddling pool, which she had bought on Very. The bargain find looked perfect for keeping kids entertained over the summer holidays. It could also be used if you love sun bathing with a book or cool frozen drink. Her post has racked up numerous likes, and many people said they had either rushed to stock up on the floats or were desperate to get them. One person said they had bought one for their recent holiday to save cash when they were out there. They wrote: 'Took one off them to lanzorate with us, save paying prices out there lol.' A second added: 'worth a visit to Lidl.' Five Lidl rosés you need this summer, according to a wine expert - a £6.99 buy is as light & crispy as £22 Whispering Angel And a third commented: 'We had them last year they were great.' Another person said their Lidl floats were still in perfect condition over a decade later. They said: 'Had these 10 years they are still going strong from lidl. 'We got them from uk to take to spain as they are so expensive abroad they were that strong. 'We brought these ones back normally they burst or don't bother bringing stuff like this home but glad we did been such a good buy.' 3 POOL SAFETY Swimming instructor Nikki Scarnati previously went viral after begging parents not to buy their kids blue swimming costumes. She said the colour made it almost impossible to see youngsters playing in the water. The parent also urged mums and dads not to wrap their kids up tightly in a towel after going for a dip as it restricts their limbs. If they were then to fall into a pool, there is a high chance they could drown, she added. IF you've ever shopped in Aldi or Lidl then you'll probably have experienced its ultra-fast checkout staff. Aldi's speedy reputation is no mistake, in fact, the supermarket claims that its tills are 40 per cent quicker than rivals. It's all part of Aldi's plan to be as efficient as possible - and this, the budget shop claims, helps keep costs low for shoppers. Efficient barcodes on packaging means staff are able to scan items as quickly as possible, with the majority of products having multiple barcodes to speed up the process. It also uses 'shelf-ready' packaging which keeps costs low when it comes to replenishing stock.
Daily Mail
24-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Lanzarote reveals the 'type of tourist' it wants in major new tourism plan
Lanzarote is planning to launch a major new tourist campaign as the Canary Island declares it 'doesn't want just any tourist'. The new campaign has been designed to promote 'ethical and responsible tourism' reports local publication, the Canarian Weekly. At the campaign's launch, Oswaldo Betancort, president of the Lanzarote Cabildo, said: 'We are sending a very clear message. 'Lanzarote doesn't want just any tourist, but rather those who love and enjoy the island, who respect its uniqueness and contribute to its preservation.' The island, which received over three million tourists in 2024, is also aimed at Lanzarote's local residents. Hector Fernandez, a tourism lead in Lanzarote, said: 'This campaign isn't just for tourists, it's also aimed at our local population. 'The message will be integrated into our work with airlines and tour operators to reshape how tourism is viewed on the island. It's a chance to change the entire paradigm of Lanzarote as a destination.' The island's new focus is set to be on its 'delicate and beautiful territory' rather than nightlife. 'We are creating a globally unique model of ethical and responsible tourism,' added Betancort. 'The aim is for visitors to understand, even before they land here, that they are entering a delicate and beautiful territory that needs to be protected.' Lanzarote is the third-most visited of the Canary Islands with the majority of tourists attracted by its beaches. A volcanic island, Lanzarote's unique landscapes have been compared to Mars of the surface of the moon. In May, local residents took to the streets to protest against the island's tourism industry. Protests also took place in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera.
