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A Short Return to El Hierro – the Remotest of the Canary Islands
A few days ago, I had an exciting moment on a trip to my favorite Canary Island, El Hierro. When we arrived, it felt like home. Maybe we will end up here one day, and here are some of the reasons why. I wrote a little about El Hierro during…
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Las Flores del Mar: Gastronomy and Playfulness in El Hierro
El Hierro is an island of spectacular volcanic beauty. The lively inhabitants are strongly connected to Latin America, and this amazing environment now boasts a restaurant that mixes these colorful vibes with an excellent Italian twist. Las Flores del Mar (The Flowers of the Sea) is run by a charming…
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The Intense Fire Night of Tenerife
Every midsummer, Tenerife celebrates Noche de San Juan. Processions of burning torches head towards the sea in an ancient tradition that includes jumping over bonfires and midnight bathing in the ocean. The celebration dates back to the island’s native Guanche days, and the shortest night of the year is a…
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The Strong Women of Icod de Los Vinos
I haven’t been blogging for a while due to my studies. But yesterday, my husband returned home with some photos of a local folklore group that I just have to share. The photos really reflect the women’s position in the local society. Guess who rules? 🙂 © Photos and captions…
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So What if Your Classmates are More Successful than You?
I have just learned that my former classmates will be reuniting later this year. I won’t be able to attend, but I would be there if I were home in Davao. It’s fun to meet old classmates, talk about the past, and learn more about what they are doing now.…
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Homes and Earthquakes
I am now living in Spain, and like many Filipinos abroad, I plan to retire in my home country. However, the Philippines is in the “Pacific Ring of Fire” and is at risk of earthquakes. Our nation has endured a lot when it comes to natural forces wreaking havoc in…
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The Heart of Joy in Icod de Los Vinos, Tenerife
The carnival in Icod de Los Vinos may not be among the grandest in Tenerife, but the vibrant joy is as colorful as can be. The locals love to party, and many volunteers make great efforts to maintain the significant Latin American influence. This winter has been colder than usual…
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A Venezuelan Break in the Christmas Preparations of Icod de Los Vinos
The ties between Icod de Los Vinos and Latin America are strong. During the Christmas preparations, people from all over the town gathered to celebrate Venezuela. A chilly Sunday in December suddenly became warm as people danced spontaneously to the music. It is nice to have breaks in the daily…
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Free Wine and Wild Street Sledding in Icod de Los Vinos
Free wine for everyone and an old tradition of steep street racing make the festival of San Andrés in Icod de los Vinos something very special. Local youth with small sledges race down the steepest streets in town while the new wine flows. Wow! What a fiesta! The wineries of…
