The mobile researcher’s guide to the Canary Islands...The mobile researcher’s guide to the Canary Islands 8 2.1 Geography The Canary Islands are located opposite the north coast

The mobile researcher’s guide to the Canary Islands

2007

April


2007

April

www.europa.eu.int/eracareers www.eracareers.es/fecyt www.octi.info www.feu.ull.es www.fulp.ulpgc.es

Table of contents 1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 6 2 The Canary Islands............................................................................................................ 7 2.1 Geography .........................................................................................................................................8 2.2 Climate ...............................................................................................................................................9 2.3 Population ..........................................................................................................................................9 2.4 The Province of Las Palmas ............................................................................................................10 2.5 The Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife ..........................................................................................13 3 Living in the Canaries ..................................................................................................... 17 4 Science and Technology in the Canaries ..................................................................... 19 4.1 The Canary Islands R+D+i system...................................................................................................19 4.2 Administrative structure of the public R&D system...........................................................................25 4.3 Canary Islands Integrated Canary Islands Integrated Plan of R + D + i +d (PICIDI) ........................25 5 Recognition of foreign university degrees ................................................................... 29 6 Working in research in the Canaries ............................................................................. 30 6.1 Research grants...............................................................................................................................30 6.2 Employment opportunities in research .............................................................................................34 7 Finding work in the Canaries ......................................................................................... 35 7.1 Employment Offices .........................................................................................................................35 7.2 University Foundations.....................................................................................................................36 7.3 Other institutions ..............................................................................................................................36 7.4 Chambers of Commerce ..................................................................................................................37 7.5 Temporary Employment Companies - TEC......................................................................................37 7.6 First-time employment opportunities ................................................................................................37 8 Economy........................................................................................................................... 39 8.1 Taxes ...............................................................................................................................................40 8.2 Canary Taxation Agencies ...............................................................................................................40 9 Health care ....................................................................................................................... 42 9.1 Hospitals ..........................................................................................................................................42 9.2 Health Clinics ...................................................................................................................................42 9.3 Private medical insurance ................................................................................................................43 9.4 Pharmacies ......................................................................................................................................43 10 Legal aid ........................................................................................................................... 44 10.1 Judiciary ...........................................................................................................................................44 10.2 Police commissaries ........................................................................................................................44 10.3 Courts for violence against women ..................................................................................................45 11 Lodging............................................................................................................................. 46 11.1 Hotels ...............................................................................................................................................46 11.2 Residence halls................................................................................................................................46 11.3 Renting.............................................................................................................................................47 11.4 Youth property exchange .................................................................................................................47 12 Services ............................................................................................................................ 48 12.1 Security related services ..................................................................................................................48 12.2 Telephone and Internet ....................................................................................................................48 12.3 Electricity..........................................................................................................................................49 12.4 Gas ..................................................................................................................................................50 12.5 Water................................................................................................................................................50 12.6 Special domestic services ................................................................................................................51 12.7 Personal belongings.........................................................................................................................51 12.8 Transportation ..................................................................................................................................51 12.9 Banks ...............................................................................................................................................54 12.10 Television .........................................................................................................................................54 13 Education ......................................................................................................................... 56 13.1 Schools ............................................................................................................................................56

13.2 Libraries ...........................................................................................................................................57 13.3 Spanish and other language courses...............................................................................................57 13.4 Musical education ............................................................................................................................58 14 Tourism, culture and leisure time.................................................................................. 59 14.1 Offices of tourism .............................................................................................................................59 14.2 Rural Tourism...................................................................................................................................61 14.3 Health and spa tourism ....................................................................................................................61 14.4 Dolphin and whale watching tourism................................................................................................62 14.5 Culture..............................................................................................................................................62 14.6 Gastronomy......................................................................................................................................63 14.7 Archeological sites ...........................................................................................................................64 14.8 Museums..........................................................................................................................................64 14.9 Music, theater and cinema ...............................................................................................................66 14.10 Sports...............................................................................................................................................66 14.11 Canary festivals................................................................................................................................67 15 Information of interest .................................................................................................... 68 15.1 Local holidays ..................................................................................................................................68 15.2 Regional press .................................................................................................................................68 15.3 Canary Islands Government telephone information assistance - 012 ..............................................69 15.4 Post Office........................................................................................................................................70 15.6 Roads...............................................................................................................................................70 15.7 Consumer information ......................................................................................................................70 15.8 Meteorology .....................................................................................................................................70 15.9 Women’s Issues...............................................................................................................................71 15.10 City Halls ..........................................................................................................................................71 15.11 Cabildos ...........................................................................................................................................71 15.12 Autonomous Community institutions ................................................................................................72


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1 Introduction The free movement of researchers towards, from and within Europe is recognized by the European Union. The European Network for Mobility Centers (ERAMORE) was created to assist these researchers. Spain is one of the countries that is active in the program. The Spanish network (ERAMORE-Spain) is run by the Fundación Española para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FECYT), and includes Mobility Centers from each Autonomous Community. Two centers are located in the Canary Islands, one found in each province: the first is in Las Palmas, and is associated with the Fundación Universitaria de Las Palmas, while the center in Tenerife is part of Fundación Universidad-Empresa. The main objective of the network, and for all of the Mobility Centers, is to provide information and support for those researchers who wish to move within Europe or outside of it. In addition more information is available in the FECYT document “Guide for the foreign researcher in Spain”. The objective of this Enclosure with respect to the Canary Islands is to provide specific information to foreign researchers, EC nationals or not, who have moved to our region. Its purpose is to offer succinct and useful information about the Canary Islands for those visitors who are coming here for the first time. The information covers a variety of topics of interest to the foreign or national who wishes to legally reside in Spain, ranging from all required documentation to other aspects of daily living, for instance, the health care system, education, and even cultural and leisure activities. Additional information or personal queries may be directed to:

Mobility Center Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Address: Fundación Empresa-Universidad de La Laguna Avda Veinticinco de Julio, 9 38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Telephone:+34 922 319 700 • Fax:+34 922 249 403 e-mail: [email protected] Web page: www.feu.ull.es

Mobility Center Las Palmas

Address: Fundación Universitaria de Las Palmas C/ Juan de Quesada, 30 35001 Las Palmas Telephone:+34 928 457 219 • Fax:+34 928 457 478 e-mail: [email protected] Web page: www.fulp.ulpgc.es/movilidad

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2 The Canary Islands The Canary Archipelago consists of seven islands. The names of the islands, going from east to west, are: Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. In addition there are six islets: Alegranza, Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Roque del Este, Roque del Oeste and Lobos. The archipelago is located northwest of the African continent, specifically between 27º 37' and 29º 25' North latitudes, that is, in a subtropical area, and 13º 20' y 18º 10' West longitudes. The geographical location is reflected in a one hour time difference with respect to the Iberian peninsula. The Canaries are approximately 1,000 km. from the nearest point of the Iberian peninsula. The Archipelago is much closer to the African coast: at its nearest spot it is just 100 km away, and 500 km from the farthest. The advantageous geographical situation allows the islands to be part of an intercontinental route, acting as a stepping stone for Europe, Africa and the Americas. Pirate ships which roamed the Atlantic Ocean used to stay in the region and threaten those ships visiting the islands. Its strategic geographic position has been valued by many countries through the years and has been the cause for several unsuccessful attacks. The Canary Islands are divided into two provinces: One province is named Las Palmas, and includes the islands of Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. A second province is Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and includes four islands: Tenerife, El Hierro, Gomera and La Palma. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of the province of Las Palmas, while Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the province with the same name. More information is available at: http://www.canarias.org http://www.turismodecanarias.com


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2.1 Geography The Canary Islands are located opposite the north coast of Africa within the Atlantic Ocean. The coasts are generally characterized by long sandy beaches, and are protected by reefs, capes and deep bays. Nevertheless, there are some areas where cliffs and other steep features abound, for instance, in the western and northern coasts of Gran Canaria. An essential element in any description of the Canary Islands must include the constant presence of volcanic relief. Volcanic effects are seen in three different regions: the central islands, the eastern islands, and the western islands. The volcanic origins of the islands had a very unique effect on the landscape, generating a variety of relief forms (tubes, cones, badlands, etc.). One of the most emblematic geographical irregularities found in the islands is El Teide, 3,718 meters high at its peak, the highest in all of Spain.

2.1.1 Natural Spaces The islands in general are characterized by important geographical irregularities in its natural environment, some of which are responsible for the protection of 40% of its area, totalling 301,162 hectares and growing. These protected spaces are dispersed throughout the archipelago and are found in varying degrees. This classification is defined in the Ley de Espacios Naturales de Canarias, and also considers National Parks, others categories such as National Monuments, of which 51 are found in the region, for example, the Barranco de Guayadeque in Gran Canaria; National Parks, (there are 11), such as the one in Lobos in Fuerteventura, (Parque Natural del Islote de Lobos), Rural Park, (seven), including Parque Rural de Frontera in El Hierro, Natural Integrated Reserve, (eleven), including the Reserva Natural de Benchijigua in La Gomera, Special Natural Reserve, (fifteen), including the Reserva Natural Especial de Guelguén in La Palma and, finally, Sites of Scientific Interest, altogether nineteen, in which the Acantilado de la Hondura, in Tenerife, is included. There are four National Parks in the islands: Parque Nacional del Teide, in Tenerife; Parque Nacional de Caldera de Taburiente, in La Palma; Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, in Lanzarote, and Garajonay, in La Gomera. Garajonay is also considered World Patrimony, granted by UNESCO in 1986, in recognition of the best example of a living laurisilva forest in the world. Areas in the Canary Islands have also been recognized as Biospheric Reserves. Los Tiles in La Palma, Lanzarote, El Hierro and just recently, the southwest part of Gran Canaria. Other specific distinctions in the Canary Archipelago are Places of Communitary Interest (LIC), 174, and Special Bird Protection Areas (ZEPA), integrated in the Natura 2000 Network, which was created from a European Union initiative. Red Natura 2000 is an ecological network whose objective is to guarantee the maintenance or re-establishment of natural habitats and species. More information is available at: http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/cmayot/medioambiente/biodiversidad/ceplam/index1.html

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2.2 Climate The Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands is characterized by a tropical climate. Although based on its latitude it should have a desert-like climate, in reality it is quite different. Its location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, bestows upon the islands the benefits from the trade winds, which, in addition to its unusual orography and ocean currents along its coasts create an exceptionally mild climate. The average annual temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, with little variation, except at the highest areas, where it is of course lower. Precipitation among the islands varies according to location. These figures range between 300 and 500mm annually. Add to these facts 300 days of sun per year and it is easy to see why the Canary Islands are considered to have one of the mildest climates in the world.

2.3 Population The Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) estimated the population of the region at 1,995,833 inhabitants as of January 1, 2006. The population by island follows:

• Gran Canaria: 807,049 inhabitants • Tenerife: 852,945 inhabitants • Lanzarote: 127,457 inhabitants • La Palma: 86,062 inhabitants • Fuerteventura: 89,680 inhabitants • La Gomera: 21,952 inhabitants • El Hierro: 10,688 inhabitants

The major cities in the region are: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna, Telde, Arrecife and Santa Cruz de la Palma.


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2.4 The Province of Las Palmas

2.4.1 Gran Canaria

Area 1,560 Km2 Population: 807,049 Coastal length: 256 Km. Hotel rooms: 143,085 Maximum height: Pico de Las Nieves – 1949 m. Capital city: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Protected spaces: 32

Gran Canaria is characterized by its round shape. The island covers 1,560 square kilometers, of which 42.7% is protected. Part of the island was conferred Biospheric Reserve status by UNESCO in 2005, in recognition of its natural spaces. Gran Canaria may be considered as the island which offers the greatest amount of environmental diversity because of its central location with respect to Macaronesia and the Canary Archipelago. The major natural attractions in the island are a result of its geomorphological configuration. The altitude of the island and the complexity of its relief allow for the identification of several micro-climates. These micro-climates, in turn, provide settings for a variety of habitats, such as the arid and damp settings in different slopes of the island. Its Irregular orography, a result of volcanic eruptions and erosive processes, offers the best developed system of ravines in the entire archipelago. Great contrasts are found along the coasts. Dune and oasis formations, yellow, grey or black beaches, cliffs and roques, are all part of the environment. The climate in Gran Canaria is determined by the influence of its geographical situation, as is the case for all of the islands in the region. The combination of trade winds and the local, cold marine currents impact the archipelago. The trade winds form an essential support for water which compensates for the lack of rainfall in the island and reduces summer temperatures. The average summer temperature ranges from 20º y 25º and in winter from 18º to 23º. An abundant natural richness is the result of its climatic diversity. Indeed, Gran Canaria and Tenerife are the two islands that offer the greatest variety of plants and the largest amount of island endemisms. More information is available at: www.grancanaria.com www.laspalmasgc.es

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2.4.2 Fuerteventura

Area 1.659 Km2 Population: 889.680 Coastal length: 304 Km. Hotel rooms: 34382 Maximum height: Jandía – 807 m. Capital city: Puerto del Rosario Protected spaces: 13

The island of Fuerteventura is part of 200 Km stretch of territory which begins at the islet of Alegranza and continues to the northern part of the island at Jandía. This extension is the longest continental platform in the archipelago. The island also has a very high percentage (28.8%) of protected territory. Although it is quite long, its limited height (approximately 807 meters at the Pico de la Zarza, near the maciff at Jandía), enforces a rather extreme aridiness in its landscape, which can even be defined as being semi-desert-like. Limited and irregular rainfall, combined with high temperatures throughout the year, characterize the Fuerteventura climate. However when it does rain it tends to occur in a torrential manner, resulting in a green grass covering, which is certainly unexpected feed for the local goats, used to worse pastures. There are 17 flora endemisms in Fuerteventura, all included in this scarce vegetation covering. In addition there are another 76 Canary endemisms, and 27 Macaronesia ones. The land-based vertebrate fauna is limited to bats, the Canary shrew, reptiles and birds, among which tarabilla (unique to Fuerteventura), the hubara (this animal is the island symbol) and the guirre stand out. The Fuerteventura goat deserves special mention. Although the goat is probably responsible for the disappearance of several vegetation endemisms, it provides excellent milk and is an important raw material for the local cheese, the quality of which has been recognized and has been granted its own Designation of Origin. More information is available at: www.cabildofuer.es www.fuerteventuraturismo.com


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2.4.3 Lanzarote

Area 846 Km2 Population: 127. 457 Coastal length: 191 Km. Hotel rooms: 44840 Maximum height: Peña del Chache – 671 m. Capital city: Arrecife Protected spaces: 13

Lanzarote is the easternmost and northernmost of all the Canary Islands. UNESCO declared the island to be a World Biospheric Region in 1993, and the protected area in the island is representative of one of the main ecosytems in the world. Almost half of the island´s area (41.4%) is protected, including the 9,112 hectares in its islets. The islets include the Chinijo Archipelago, a group of small islands located to the north of Lanzarote, of which, only La Graciosa is actually inhabited, while the rest are part of the national parks in the Canary Islands. The spectacular display of nature in Lanzarote is the product of its geological and geomorphological configuration. The island offers the most attractive display of volcanism in the entire archipelago. Lava, lapilli, and recent volcanic ash are all present in the island landscape and are the product of volcanic eruptions between 1730 and 1736, covering 5,107 hectares. La Geria ecosystem is located next to Timanfaya. This area has been adapted by man for farming, while conserving and even improving its ecological conditions. The sub-desert-like climate of Lanzarote creates aridness in the landscape. The island is characterized by scarce and irregular precipitation, high temperatures and very intense winds. Nevertheless, the natural and artificial sand coverings allow the vegetation and farming to be more extensive than those typical of a sub-desert area. The flora of the island have produced 16 island endemisms, to which 71 more endemisms from other islands in the archipelago must be added, as well as 19 from Macaronesia. The typical fauna is closely related to the characteristics of its landscape. Abundant badlands are frequently blocked by volcanic tubes which occasionally are flooded, thereby creating jameos, the natural habitat of the blind crab. More information is available at: www.cabildolanzarote.com www.turismolanzarote.com

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2.5 The Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

2.5.1 Tenerife

Area 2034 Km2 Population: 852.945 Coastal length: 342 Km. Hotel rooms: 114005

Maximum height: Teide – 3718 m. Capital city: Santa Cruz de Tenerife Protected spaces: 43

The island of Tenerife is the largest and highest in the entire Archipelago. Mt. Teide is found in its center, and it is the not only the highest peak in all of Canaries but in Spain as well. At 3,718 meters elevation, it is an excellent framework for research, observation and recreation or volcanic activity which characterize the islands. It is geographically located in the central part of the Canary Islands, and its climate and landscape are similar to a Saharan region. Nevertheless, its climate is mild and subtropical throughout the year. The local ocean currents and the trade winds influence the temperatures, whose winter average is 18 º and 25º in the summer. Tenerife has become one of the best areas for astronomical observation in the world. The archipelago’s location above the equator, far from tropical storms, and the establishment of observation centers well above altitudes of 2,400 m. (consequently above the “Sea Clouds” which prevents the introduction of atmospheric contamination) provide the clouds in Tenerife with exceptional clarity and quality, accentuated by the climate which offers the greatest number of observation hours during the year. The tremendous landscape and climatic diversity of the island generate richness in its ecosystems (more than 48% of its surface is protected by law), where each ecosystem has its own flora and fauna. The island has a perimeter of almost 400 kilometers, and includes an orography full of contrasts and scientific interest due to its volcanic origin, which provide shelter to a large number of animal endemisms. Some of the endemisms which stand out are the pinzón azul, palomas, lagartos, murciélagos and musarañas, as well as marine species. The altitude and orientation influence vegetation in Tenerife, and it is seen at different levels: cardones, tabaibas dulces andbalos, palmeras, sabinas, laurisilva and pino canario, in addition to many species which are present in the demanding climatic conditions in Las Cañadas. Of these, 50 are endemic to the Canaries and some of which are exclusive to this geographical area. More information is available at: www.cabtfe.es www.webtenerife.com www.sctfe.es


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2.5.2 La Gomera

Area 370 Km2 Population: 21.952 Coastal length: 100 Km. Hotel rooms: 5494 Maximum height: Garajonay – 1487 m. Capital City: San Sebastián Protected spaces: 17

The ruggedness of its relief is the one geographical characteristic which stands out most in La Gomera. The area of the island barely reaches 369 square kilometers (of which, 33% are protected by law) and is the home to ecological treasures which were declared Humanity Patrimony by UNESCO, such as the Garajonay rain forest, which has also been a National Park since 1981. The complex orography of this island lies in its round surface, which is characterized by a dense system of large ravines, distributed through a round shape, and influences a very fragmented landscape. Its mild climate includes rainfall, and its distribution is directly linked to the orography. The relief and the climate also affect its rich vegetation, terraced in levels and strata, which contain a high percentage of Canary endemisms and a considerable amount of species only found in this island, of which many are relics from the past that have been lost elsewhere on the planet. The fauna in La Gomera is as rich as the flora. Its nearness to Tenerife has allowed many animals to be brought here and have resulted in the creation of unique species and breeds due to evolution. More than 40 nesting birds, three types of bats, three types of reptiles, a frog species and at least 2,000 different insects and other invertebrates are present. The most interesting species of fauna are found in the forests. The original inhabitants of La Gomera developed a special way of communication, through whistling, to overcome their interior isolation. This technique was in place prior to the Spanish colonization of the islands, and allowed simple messages to be sent from one isolated point to another located near a ravine or valley without the need to traverse the slopes which separated them. More information is available at: www.cabildogomera.org www.gomera-island.com

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2.5.3 La Palma

Area: 708 Km2 Population: 86.062 Coastal length: 166 Km. Hotel rooms: 7800 Maximum height: Roque de Los Muchachos – 2423 m. Capital City: Santa Cruz de La Palma Protected spaces: 20

The island is located in the northwestern part of the archipelago. Its fertile land is one of the youngest in the region and has been affected by recent volcanic eruptions. The soil is recognized it as its main economic resource. This protection and its other natural characteristics have earned La Palma recognition by the UNESCO as a Biospheric Reserve. La Palma is a rugged and steep island which drastically changes in altitude without notice and is affected by Atlantic storms. Its volcanic lava reaches the ocean, and has created a low and rocky coast, with small coves of black sand. Approximately 35% of the island area is protected by one of the established categories in the Canary Natural Spaces Law, and a fair amount of this belongs to the area belonging to the Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente. La Palma has the highest rainfall index in the Canaries, which explains the greenness of its landscape. Its average annual temperature is between 16º and 21º, without significant variations. It is possible, however, to find sub- zero temperatures and snowfall in the highest altitudes during winter. The trade winds affect the eastern and northern side of the island, where sea clouds are formed which help in the development of the laurisilva vegetation and produce multiple varieties of flora. La Palma is also known as the Green Island because of the high density of vegetation found there. Over 1,080 species can be found on the island, where the most important ones are the pine forest (pinus canariensis), laurisilva (recognised as a World Biospheric Reserve), drago, palmera, cardoncillo, violeta, taginaste, tagasaste, tomillo, gacias, etc. With respect to its fauna, La Palma, like the rest of the islands, offers a rich variety in invertebrate species, and possesses some island endemisms, although the diversity in vertebrates is rare. The sky is another of the great natural endowments of La Palma, and it is protected by Law. The atmospheric conditions present in Roque de los Muchachos have converted the island into a worldwide reference in astrophysics and as a meeting point for the international astronomy community. More information is available at: www.cablapalma.es www.lapalmaturismo.com


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2.5.4 El Hierro

Area: 268 Km2 Population: 10.688 Coastal length: 110 Km. Hotel rooms: 968 Maximum height: Malpaso – 1501 m. Capital city: Valverde Protected spaces: 7

El Hierro is the westernmost and smallest of the seven islands in the Canary Archipelago. The area is limited to 269 square kilometres, and is characterized by a rugged orography. Its maximum altitude is 1,501 meters, at the Peak of Malpaso. Its height and its nearness to the trade winds generate a variety of microclimates. The climate in El Hierro is influenced by the interaction of ocean currents from the Saharan banks and the trade winds, creating mild and uniform conditions. The rainfall adds value to the land found inside this district, which is fertile for agriculture. El Hierro received distinction as a Biospheric Reserve, and 58.1% of its territory is protected. Parque Rural de Frontera contains an important part of the protected space in the island, although there are other areas which are also included, such as coastal halophilous to laurisilva in El Golfo and the savins and pine groves in the summits. The island has jagged coasts and cliffs, thus explaining the absence of natural sandy beaches. There are, however, opportunities to bathe in areas with volcanic origins. With regards to endemic vegetative species, El Hierro is no different than the rest of the islands in the region. A large number of species are present, some belonging to the archipelago, while others exclusive to the island. Some of the more important ones are El Sabinar, a formation of sabinas whose tangled forms have been molded through centuries of hostile winds and climatic conditions which are common in the western part of the island; in addition to tabaibas. Among the characteristic fauna in the island, the giant lagarto deserves special attention. This species has been the subject of significant scientific research. In addition, the pigeons in the laurisilva have escaped extinction by staying in these legally protected refuges. More information is available at: www.elhierro.es www.islaelhierro.es

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3 Living in the Canaries Visas /consulates/residence/pre-travel information Prior to your arrival in Spain, check the necessary procedures to live in Spain which are described in the “Guía del investigador extranjero en España” (in Spanish) or in the English version. Information regarding the necessary procedures to live in Spain which are described in: http://www.mir.es/SGACAVT/modelos/extranjeria/ If you live in the province of Las Palmas, you can contact one of the following Immigration Offices:

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria) Address: Plaza de La Feria, 24; 35071 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone: 928 999 260 Office Hours: Monday to Thursday from 9.00 to 5.30 and Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

• Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) Address: Avda. Primero de Mayo, 64 35600 Puerto del Rosario Telephone: 928 991 000 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

• Arrecife (Lanzarote)

Address: Blas Cabrera Felipe, 6; 35500 Arrecife de Lanzarote Telephone: 928 991 000 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

If you live in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the offices are found in the following locations:

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Tenerife) Address: C/ la Marina, 20 Telephone: 922 999 300 Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 9.00 to 5.30 and Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

• San Sebastián de la Gomera (La Gomera)

Address: Pl. de las Ameritas, 2 Telephone: 922 997 002 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

• Valverde (El Hierro)

Address: Avda. Dacio Darias, 103 Telephone: 922 998 000 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 2.00

• Santa Cruz de La Palma (La Palma)

Address: Avda. Marítima, 2 Telephone: 922 998 002 Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 2.00


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Additional information concerning immigration is available at this web site: http://extranjeros.mtas.es/es/index.html Additional information concerning the list of all Consulates located in the Canary Islands can be obtained at www.canarias.org/esp/nacionalidad/mundocan.asp.

Science and Technology in the Canaries

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4 Science and Technology in the Canaries

4.1 The Canary Islands R+D+i system The R+D+i public system includes title institutions that generate knowledge through activities in Research and Development. Its main objectives are basic and applied research, although the system also corroborates with other agencies which offer support and intermediary services. The Canary System of Innovation is made up of the following agencies: public administration and centers and the innovative business sector. This system takes on a triple helix relationship as it incorporates three interrelated components: research, development and innovation. The main actors in the R+D+i public system are the two regional universities in La Laguna and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, including their research centers and technological centers. There are several research centers throughout the archipelago which have links with the Public Administration at the regional level. These centers include the Canary Institute of Marine Sciences (ICCM), the Canary Institute of Agrarian Research (ICIA), the Technological Institute of Canaries (ITC) and the Canary Foundation for Health and Research (FUNCIS). All of these centers report directly to the Regional Public Administration. Another which shares ownership is the Astrophysics Institute of Canaries (IAC). There are also some research centers with island administrative ties, such as Technological Institute of Renewable Energies (ITER) or the Volcano Center. Two other centers with national support are the Institute of Natural Products and Agro-biology (IPNA) or the Canaries Space Station. See detailed list figure 4.1.1. These institutions play an important role not only in the training of researchers but also in the generation of scientific knowledge. They are an important source of technology for the production sector, and this technology is directly transferred from these entities through intermediary organisms. These actors participate in the transfer of knowledge and results of the research being carried out between R+D centers and businesses. These businesses, consequently, have established a stable network of cooperation through the promotion of group research activities which improve training via an exchange of experiences and the capacity to embark upon joint R+R+I projects. Other agents, aside from businesses, are the Public Administration, which plans, finances and/or invigorates and develops support systems or infrastructure for innovation. Business directors and innovating entrepreneurs are also agents which focus their activities specifically on innovation, using different formulas, one of which includes providing financing and risk of these private activities or services, specialized in supporting agencies and businesses associated with innovation. Research and innovation within the Canary Islands is presently being carried out in several sectors, including alternative and renewable energies, biomedicine, biotechnology, fish hatcheries and other marine resources, medicinal uses, Canary plant dietetic and cosmetic products, such as aloe vera or other marine algae. The diverse natural heritage of the Canary Islands, one rich in endemisms, makes up an important source of biodiversity within the EU. Other research and innovation is being carried out in the technological areas of information, activities related with gas, broad band telecommunication services and


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multimedia production. All of these activities are taking place in this archipelago, and not only in an interesting laboratory with an excellent reputation in technological experimentation, but what can be seen as an excellent opportunity for European innovative technologies. This region possesses a fundamental instrument to increase competitiveness in the European industry and the dissemination of technologies. For instance, the tourism sector, chief motor of the Canary economy, developed activities which help achieve sustainable tourism based on the introduction of new technologies and innovative ideas. Worth mentioning are the advances in actions which were undertaken to favor R+D+i manager profiles and other supporting personnel during the last year. The incorporation of technological experts and PhD’s, in addition to the innovative program for invigorators are two of the most active methods used to favor innovation and the incorporation of qualified human capital in businesses. Activities related with the dissemination of the system have increased, where the elaboration and development of the program stands out. Of special note, among other activities, is the regions participation in the national Science and Technology Week. Special attention needs to be drawn to the development of a network of relationships between a system of human resources favored by a series of instruments such as training, seminars, meetings, conferences, etc. that encourage networking as a source for collaborations, initiatives and group projects.


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4.1.1 R+D+i Canary system actors

Universities

Universidad de La Laguna - ULL

(Santa Cruz de Tenerife)

Vicerrectorado de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico

Fundación Empresa Universidad de La Laguna (FEU)

OTRI

Instituto de Lingüística Andrés Bello

Instituto Universitario de Astrofísica

Instituto Universitario de Bío-Orgánica Antonio González

Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Políticas y Sociales

Instituto Universitario de Desarrollo Regional

Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias

Instituto Universitario de la Empresa

Research Institutes

Instituto Universitario de Tecnologías Biomédicas

Centro de Estudios Africanos

Centro de Estudios Canadienses

Centro de Estudios Criminológicos de Canarias

Centro de Estudios de Ciencias del Deporte

Centro de Estudios de la Mujer

Centro de Estudios Ecosociales

Centro de Estudios Medievales y Renacentistas

Centro de Estudios Sexológicos

Study Centers

Centro de Estudios Universitarios para la Educación en la Diversidad

Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - ULPGC

(Las Palmas)

Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación

Fundación Canaria Universitaria de Las Palmas [including Unidad de Promoción de la Innovación (UPI)]

Instituto Universitario de Ciencias y Tecnologías Cibernéticas (IUCTC)

Instituto Universitario de Microelectrónica Aplicada (IUMA)

Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria Institutos de Investigación

Instituto Universitario de Sistemas Inteligentes y Aplicaciones Numéricas en Ingeniería (IUSIANI)

Centro de Innovación para la Sociedad de la Información (CICEI)

Centro de Biotecnología Marina (CBM)

Centro de Biodiversidad y Gestión Ambiental (BIOGES) Centros de Investigación

Centro Tecnológico para la Innovación en Comunicaciones (CETIC)


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Other centers according to topic

Research topic Name of center Island Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables (ITER) Tenerife

Renewable energies

Instituto Tecnológico de Canarias (ITC) Gran Canaria/Tenerife

Instituto Canario de Ciencias Marinas (ICCM) Gran Canaria

Centro Oceanográfico de Canarias (Instituto Español de Oceanografía) Tenerife Sustainable development

Fundación Centro Canario del Agua Tenerife

Fundación Canaria de Investigación y Salud - Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Biomédicas (FUNCIS-ICIB) Gran Canaria/Tenerife

Unidad de Investigación del Consorcio Sanitario de Tenerife del Hospital Universitario de Canarias Tenerife

Instituto Canario de Investigación del Cáncer (ICIC) Virtual Biomedicina and health care

Instituto de Investigación y Ciencia de Puerto del Rosario (INIPRO) Fuerteventura

Granja Agrícola Experimental de Arucas Gran Canaria

Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo Gran Canaria

Granja Agrícola Experimental de Lanzarote Lanzarote

Granja Experimental de Ganadería en Garafía (Dpto. de Veterinaria de la ULPGC) La Palma

Laboratorio Insular de Agrobiología (IPNA-CSIC) La Palma

Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias (ICIA) Tenerife

Agriculture and agri-food

Instituto de Productos Naturales Agrarios (IPNA-CSIC) Tenerife

Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) Tenerife/La Palma

Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial (INTA) Gran Canaria Astrophysics and associate technologies

Centro Espacial de Canarias (Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial) Gran Canaria

Observatorio Vulcanológico del Parque Nacional de Timanfaya y Casa de los Volcanes Lanzarote

Centro Geofísico de Canarias (Instituto Geográfico Nacional) Tenerife

Centro Meteorológico Territorial en Canarias Occidental (Instituto Nacional de Meteorología) Tenerife Environmental Sciences

Centro Meteorológico Territorial en Canarias Oriental (Instituto Nacional de Meteorología) Gran Canaria


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4.1.2 Universities in the Canary Islands There is one university for each province in the Canary Islands:

• Universidad de La Laguna (Santa Cruz de Tenerife): www.ull.es

• Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Las Palmas): www.ulpgc.es

More information about the universities in the Canary Islands is available from the Dirección General de Universidades e Investigación at the following web site http://www.gobcan.es/educacion/dgui/ You can also visit the offices and obtain more Information at the Consejería de Educación, Cultura y Deportes:

Universidad de La Laguna (ULL) The Universidad de La Laguna is located in the northeast section of the island of Tenerife, in the municipality of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Most of the campuses (Main, Anchieta, Guajara and Ofra) are located in the municipality of La Laguna, although there are scattered centers in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The university population during the 2005/2006 academic year included 1,939 professors, an administrative staff of 819 and 29,307 undergraduate and graduate students. The capacity for research at the Universidad de La Laguna is undeniable, and it is clearly backed up by its annual statistics. It is the leading institution in the region according to the number and amount of financed projects from FEDER announcements in the European Union and also in national and regional funding. This figure has tripled in the last three years. There are 1,816 active researchers as of January, 2007. Astrophysics, biomedicine, psychology and investigation in natural products are some of the university strong points. In addition, the Universidad de La Laguna has one of the highest indices among Spanish universities in the presentation and defense of doctoral theses, another sign of the presence of young and ambitious researcher in the islands. The university has also recently decided to improve its scientific infrastructure. One of the main goals of the university is to consolidate greater collaboration among the Canary Islands private sector and its research groups, resulting in the promotion and transfer of research results. The university has set as a priority the preparation of a guide to the scientific/technological opportunities present in the Universidad de La Laguna. Another project under way is a compilation of a research group registry, which will serve as a means to motivate activity in less competitive areas and promote other established groups.

Las Palmas C/ Pérez Galdós, nº 4 Edf. Rodríguez Quegles 35071 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Tfnos: 928 30 72 59 Fax: 928 39 00 35

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Avda. Buenos Aires, nº 5 Edf. Tres de Mayo , Planta 6ª 38071 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Tfnos: 922 59 27 71/59 25 00 Fax: 922 59 21 10


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At present there are eight university institutes in the Universidad de La Laguna, all dedicated to different research areas, in addition to nine study centers (See table 4.1.1). More information is available at: www.ull.es/ullasp/investigacion/index.asp

Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) The Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria began offering degrees during the 1989-1990 in response to a social movement in Gran Canaria which demanded a university for the province of Las Palmas. Although a relatively new university, the ULPGC has achieved in only a few years recognition as an important Spanish university, standing out in areas such as Information and Communication Technologies, in programs offering international mobility and its strong commitment to local society, backed by solid financing and high scientific productivity. A teaching staff of more than 1,500 professors, offering 55 degree programs and 37 doctoral programs attends to the needs of more than 24,000 students, all within a geographical area of influence of approximately one million inhabitants. The Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria shares scientific projects and participates in research collaborations with universities and research centers throughout the world. The ULPGC has nine university institutes and research centers (See section 4.1.1) and nearly 150 research groups, spread throughout all knowledge areas. Research activity joins the efforts of nearly 1,000 researchers and 1,000 graduate students, in addition to a Scientific and Technological Park. Research activities which stand out include Cybernetics, Telecommunications, Medical Technology, Oceanography, Marine Cultivation, Renewable Energies and Conservation of the Natural Environment. Data from 2004 reveals that the ULPGC has managed 102 R+D project from open announcements, reaching a sum of 5.3 million Euros. Research activity produced 5,679 conference talks, 746 books and 1,721 publications in journals with impact ratings (JCR+DURSI) during 1999-2004. The Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación (VIDI) is responsible in providing institutional support to research and defining policy related with R+D+I. The Unidad de Promoción de la Innovación is in charge of promoting the research capacity of the university, advising businesses and researchers in areas such as financing and providing support in project presentations. More information is available at: http://www.ulpgc.es/index.php?pagina=investigacion&ver=inicio


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4.2 Administrative structure of the public R&D system

The Canary Islands Parliament passed the Promotion and Development of Scientific Research and Innovation Law during 2001. This law contributed to a significant advance in the regulation of research in this Community. According to the framework of this Law, the responsible organisms in scientific research matters, technological development and innovation are:

a. The Committee on the Coordination of Science, Technology and Innovation.

This committee is associated with interdepartmental planning and coordination in matters concerning scientific research, technological development and innovation. The Committee is responsible for setting priorities in research, development and innovation policies in the Canary Islands Autonomous Community. It is also responsible for coordinating the activities of different consejerías. In this sense, its plans will be submitted to Parliament in accordance with Ley 5/2001 de 9 julio de 2001, de promoción y desarrollo de la investigación científica y la innovación.

b. The Office of Science, Technology and Innovation. This office supports the

Committee on the Coordination of Science, Technology and Innovation in the planning, coordination, evaluation and follow-up of scientific research activities, technological development and innovation in the Canary Islands region. It will also have specific functions in the coordination of those competent organisms in material from the Autonomous Community Administration, the State Administration, other remaining Autonomous communities and the European Union.

c. The Advisory Board of Science, Technology and Innovation. This Board is

assigned to the Vice-presidency of the Government, and is the advisory organisation for the Committee on the Coordination of Science, Technology and Innovation. Its role is to promote the interconnectivity and coordination among society, production and business sectors, research centers, the scientific community and the Canary Public Administration in matters concerning research, technological development and innovation.

4.3 Canary Islands Integrated Plan for Research, Development, Innovation and Dissemination (PICIDI)

The Office of Science, Technology and Innovation was asked in 2005 to take the first steps in a project that would lead to the elaboration of the new PICIDI (Canary Islands Integrated Plan for Research, Development, Innovation and Dissemination). During 2006 the studies which supported the document as well as the preparation of a budget were finalized. In October, 2006 the Plan and Budget were opened to discussion and are expecting approval in 2007. The new Plan, known as the PICIDI, proposes a new focus linked to the development of the knowledge society in the Canary Islands. The aim of this plan is to advance with respect to prior Plans in several areas, namely in its simplification and


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financing, besides incorporating a set of new action measures which are related with established objectives. The objectives of the new PICIDI are characterized by the increase of the capacities and the quality of the Canary Islands System of Science, Technology and Innovation, the promotion and development of the knowledge economy and innovation in the Canary Archipelago, in addition to the improvement in the management and the outreach of I+D+i. These objectives are based on five major Strategic Approaches: 1. Improving and closing distances of regional policy to the political agenda of Europe is a fundamental strategy of the new Plan, since the growth and creation of employment objectives in the European Union require economic structural changes towards knowledge-based activities. This change requires improvement in the low levels of research and technological development, especially in the private sector; promoting innovation through products, processes and services that can withstand international competition; increasing regional capacity to generate and absorb new technologies and offer more support to risk-taking. 2. The creation of an activity time-line to participate in the knowledge economy is another one of the key elements, given that the knowledge society is an opportunity for the regions since it is not based on the creation of wealth exclusively through tangible goods, but also makes up a new action framework based on technological development. This is especially true in the area of information and communication technologies, in addition to biotechnology. Today’s New Economy is characterized by the existent interrelationship between productivity and the capacity to generate knowledge and process information. 3. Improve the transfer and circulation of knowledge is a key point because a society’s culture can stimulate or inhibit innovation. As a result, it is essential to establish solid links between society, science and business. One undisputed requirement for innovation is its circulation, a condition which is recognized in the new Oslo Manual. A proper presentation to the public that informs enterprising agents about how technological possibilities increase the utilization of these innovative technologies and contributes to improving competitiveness and efficiency of businesses, accelerating at the same time innovation outreach. This way, all of the innovating systems will see their development increase. 4. The promotion of entrepreneurial initiatives and lifelong learning are the essential elements to reach higher levels of competitiveness and efficiency. Innovation policies must be based in the innovative business as a central axis and, besides having businesses adapt to new business models, it is necessary to incorporate new business projects (reflecting added value) into the market, transforming R+D+i projects into innovating businesses. Innovative projects are usually associated with greater risk, hence the justification for public funding aid and especially private financing. The pace with which the knowledge society moves requires qualifications and the competencies that integrate know-how with the capacity to learn how to become an entrepreneur and undertake new projects is a piece associated with the capacity to innovate as a multiplier element. 5. Cooperation and opening up of markets are other essential aspects, since alliances are excellent strategies for knowledge and lead to the improvement of competitiveness. Achieving excellence and a regional critical mass are essential to fight for the distribution of resources. An innovating ecosystem in a global economy requires a greater window opening if it wishes to internationalize the system with a strong established local base. In this respect, the Canary Islands must position itself internationally and its R+D+i system can significantly contribute to this, creating an innovating region at a high level of quality. Besides, it must play an important proactive role in the cooperation of the development of Africa. Three Strategic axes are proposed in order to make the new Canary Plan of R+D+i+d operative. These axes will guide the initiatives and measures that will allow the


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Canary Islands to continue advancing towards the knowledge society on the horizon and convert the Archipelago into an “Innovating Ecosystem”. People, human capital and their capacities: Training must be increased to improve competitiveness. The incorporation of people and their participation in processes involving innovation is extremely important, because it brings about the creation of new knowledge. Equally important is mobility, because it is an intrinsic process of knowledge creation. New organizations: Newly created businesses with a technological base or in other emerging areas need support. In addition, all economic entities that are adapting to a flexible management model, which are innovative and reflect lifelong training must be favored. This policy would allow for the creation of sustainable value and competitiveness in a global setting starting with the proper use of technological resources. An innovative territory: Consolidate the Canary Islands as an “innovating ecosystem”, that is, a science, technology and innovation system based on the increase of an associated critical mass in networks and the private and public collaboration for regional development. These three axes materialize in a series of programs and initiatives, and the details follow: Strategic axis 1: People and Human Capital. 1.1. Training, Competencies and Mobility. • 1.1.1. Pre-doctoral and post-doctoral training. • 1.1.2. Research stability. • 1.1.3. Offering incentives in research. Reinforcing dedication to research. • 1.1.4. Research stays in other centers. • 1.1.5. Research stays in businesses: personnel sharing. • 1.1.6. Incorporation of PhD’s and technological experts into businesses. •1.1.7. Attracting talent. Temporary or permanent incorporation of prominent researchers from other regions or countries. Strategic axis 2: Adaptation and Creation of Organizations. 2.1. Knowledge for Innovation. • 2.1.1. Support in the consolidation and establishment of research groups. • 2.1.2. Support for emerging groups and ground-breaking projects. • 2.1.3. Offering incentives to groups with outside projects. •2.1.4. Organization of consolidation activities in order to obtain a return on plan investment: National and Framework Program. 2.2. Strategic Investment Opportunities for Innovation. • 2.2.1. Tourism. • 2.2.2. Biodiversity and Global Change. • 2.2.3. Marine Resources. • 2.2.4. Space and Astrophysics. • 2.2.5. Transportation and Logistics. • 2.2.6. Environmental Sustainability: Energy and Water. • 2.2.7. BIOMED. • 2.2.8. Agro-feed. • 2.2.9. Education and Scientific- Innovating Culture. 2.3. INNOVA: Innovation to improve productivity and competitiveness. • 2.3.1. Centers of innovation and development. • 2.3.2. Technological Parks. • 2.3.3. Incentives for SMEs that innovate. • 2.3.4. Invigorators of innovation. • 2.3.5. Creating initiatives and investment: Investment forums. 2.4. EMERGE: Support for technological entrepreneurship. • 2.4.1. Business promotion units: technological bases.


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• 2.4.2. Offering Incentives to SMEs in innovation. Strategic Axis 3: Innovating Ecosystem. 3.1. Setting, Communication, Cooperation and Collaboration. • 3.1.1. Empowerment of Networks and Internal Clusters. • 3.1.2. Incentives for the multidisciplinary collaboration among groups and between universities. • 3.1.3. Incentives to participate in national and international platforms. 3.2. Financial Access. • 3.2.1. Risk Capital Businesses. • 3.2.2. Business Angels Networks and Informal Financing. • 3.2.3. Increasing knowledge intensive business services (KIBS). 3.3. Management and Governance. • 3.3.1. Information systems and knowledge management. • 3.3.2. Simplification of management and procedures: e-administration. • 3.3.3. Access to information and documentation: Digital libraries. • 3.3.4. Intermediary service networks for the transfer of knowledge. • 3.3.5. Evaluation of centers and groups. • 3.3.6. Evaluation of Plan: follow-up. 3.4. VIERA Y CLAVIJO: Dissemination and Scientific Culture. • 3.4.1. Canary Islands Science Week. • 3.4.2. Assistance in the organization of scientific events. • 3.4.3. Incentives for the dissemination of scientific culture: Museums and foundations. • 3.4.4. Aid in the dissemination and promotion of science.

Recognition of foreign university degrees

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5 Recognition of foreign university degrees Formal recognition for academic purposes of official foreign academic degrees and titles by authorized centers in Spain is possible. University studies from countries outside of Spain can be recognized with their Spanish equivalents of: TEACHER, ARCHITECT, ENGINEER, GRADUATE and DOCTOR when an equivalent, current official Spanish university title exists and its degree programs are available when the application is presented. Procedures The first step is to present your application. Your degree program is adapted to the official Spanish model, and then registered at one of the following agencies:

• Governmental Departments or Subdepartments or other official inspection services within the Autonomous region where the applicant is going to reside.

Las Palmas Department Plaza de La Feria, 24 35071 – Las Palmas de G.C. Telephone: 928 999 200

S/C de Tenerife Department C/ Méndez Núñez, 9 38071 – Santa Cruz de Tenerife Telephone: 922 999 000

• MEC (www.mec.es)

C/ Los Madrazos, 15-17 Paseo del Prado, 28 C/ Serrano, 150 C/ Torrelaguna, 58 These addresses are all in Madrid

• Embassies, Consulates and any other official representations which are

authorized by the Spanish Government outside of Spain. A list of consulates is available at www.canarias.org/esp/nacionalidad/mundocan.asp

• Post Office locations: A complete list of the offices is available at

http://www.correos.es/contenido/13-MenuRec2/06-MenuRec26/1030-Oficinas.asp For more information visit http://www.mec.es/mecd/titulos/convalidacion.html


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6 Working in research in the Canaries

6.1 Research grants Several types of different grants, aid and scholarships are available which foments participation among researchers in R&D activities which are developed in the Canaries. These grants and aid are awarded by different organisms or entities, and this chapter summarizes those of greatest interest for foreign-born researchers.

6.1.1 Grants from the Canary Island Autonomous Community

Consejería de Educación, Cultura y Deportes Dirección General de Universidades

1. Graduate degree grants for use in carrying out doctoral theses:

Category A: Graduate degree grants are given to those candidates in (category A) who possess basic training in scientific and technical research from those university degrees whose research capacity has been recognized and wish to carry out a Doctoral Thesis. Category B: Graduate student grants destined for the completion of Doctoral Theses (category B) whose purpose is to offer basic training in scientific and technical research to those university degree holders who do not possess researcher sufficiency status but want to carry out a Doctoral Thesis.

1. Research aid: - Research projects: Aid to carry out research projects. - Publications: Aid to publish research which contributes to the promotion of scientific

culture and technology as well as the spreading of scientific research. For more information, see www.educa.rcanaria.es/dgui

Grants from the Universidad de La Laguna The University of La Laguna has a research aid program, which includes assistance to promulgate with the ULL academic staff with outstanding professors and researchers from other research centers. Additional services include:

• TRAVEL ASSISTANCE • AID FOR SPECIAL COURSES AND SEMINARS • ULL GRANTS

For more information, see www.ull.es/investigacion/apoyo.html

Working in research in the Canaries

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Grants from the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Program for visiting and invited professors

The University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, through its Vice-rectorate of Academic Arrangement and Professorial Staff establishes the Visiting and Invited Professor program in an open announcement, in order to encourage timely integration with research groups from the ULPGC those professors with demonstrated reputation from other Spanish and foreign universities.

For more information, see www.ulpgc.es

Instituto Astrofísico de Canarias - IAC Students and doctoral students

The aim of this grant is students in their last year of study whose last exam chances occur between July 1st and September 30th. There are two types:

• Grants for introduction to astrophysics research • Technological development grants in the IAC

Researcher training

This aid is set aside for local university degree holders. For more information, see www.iac.es

Canary Health Services and Research Foundation – (FUNCIS) FUNCIS announcements are published annually. These scholarships are distributed according to available financing, and focus on three areas:

Type 1 scholarship: Research projects in public centers and privately arranged centers, all located within the health care area. Type 2 scholarship: Further studies in foreign recognized centers of excellence, to provide training for local resident professionals. Type 3 scholarship: Additional training for university degree holders for foreigners who train in the Canary Islands Region. Type 4 scholarship: Financing of equipment and other material which supports financed research. Type 5 scholarship: Training for scholarship students in Canary Islands Hospital Center research units.

For more information, visit www.funcis.org


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Gobierno de Canarias Visits The objective of this aid is to promote the mobility of the researcher among public and private regional, national or international centers. The policy of the government is that this aid reaches the widest variety of applicants. The requirement of visiting other centers helps in training and perfecting teaching and research personnel in public research centers in the Canaries. A second outcome of this policy is to enhance existing research group relationships in the region with those at the national and international level. For more information, see www.gobcan.es

Cabildo Insular de Gran Canaria Research scholarships in specific areas for Gran Canaria

The aim is to offer research opportunities on topics of interest to the island of Gran Canaria. The Consejería de Educación y Patrimonio del Cabildo de Gran Canaria, annually announces these scholarships. Candidates should have appropriate degree to carry out this research, and as a result become better prepared to enter the job market.

For more information, see www.grancanariacultura.com

Fundación Doctor Morales The aim of this foundation scholarship is to improve the training at the highest level possible of university graduates or doctors, in other prestigious research centers, either national or international, and under the direction of recognized researchers. Therefore this foundation has decided to announce scholarships, within a R+D framework, preferably in the field of Health sciences, although this is not a requirement and other scientific or technical fields will be considered. For more information, see www.infolapalma.com/tazacorte/becas.htm

6.1.2 National scholarships and grants - Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia (MEC):

o Announcement regarding Complementary Activities. o Announcement of grants to facilitate the collaboration of Spanish researchers

with researchers from the National Institute of Nuclear Physics of Italy. o Announcement of grants to facilitate the collaboration of Spanish researchers

with researchers from the National Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics of France (IN2P3).

o Grants for the hiring of technical personnel. o Grants for researcher hiring at the Ramón and Cajal Program. o Grants for researcher hiring at the Juan de la Cierva Program. o Individual researcher training scholarship (FPI). o University professor training grants (FPU). o PETRI aid. o I3 Program. o Research and training grants in educational innovation, documentation and

computer science in educational documentation and research centers. o Individual linguistics scholarships: Comenius b (Socrates Program).

Working in research in the Canaries

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o Cátedra Príncipe de Asturias. o Native Spanish language assistants in foreign education centers. o Aid to promote Master degree programs overseas. o Spain-Brazil collaboration scholarships. o Argo Grants.

- Instituto de Salud Carlos III

Grants for the fostering of biomedical research and health sciences from Instituto de Salud Carlos III.

- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas

Scholarships for training and specialization in research lines of interest to the industrial sector.

Individual researcher training scholarship. - Instituto Español de Oceanografía

Individual researcher scholarship. - Instituto Geológico y Minero de España

Individual researcher training scholarships. - Ministerio de Industria, Turismo y Comercio (MITYC)

“Tourism in Spain ” grants - Spanish Language Resource Center

Spanish teachers educational resources. - Fundación Rafael del Pino

Rafael del Pino Foundation scholarships for graduate studies in Spain and abroad. - Fundación ENDESA

ENDESA scholarships for Iberoamérica culture heritage. 6.1.3 International scholarships and grants - American Cancer Society (ACS)

Audrey Meyer Mars international research scholarships in clinical oncology. - International Union Against Cancer (UICC) / American Cancer Society (ACS)

International research scholarship for young cancer researchers. - Peter Gruber Foundation

Research scholarships in astrophysics from the Peter Gruber Foundation.


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- Fulbright

FULBRIGHT scholarships for further studies in any discipline in the United States.

- La Caixa

LA CAIXA – CANADÁ grants for graduate studies in Canadian universities. - Fudación Carolina Instituto de Lengua Española

Aid for graduates and PhD’s for further studies in any discipline at any Hispanic university in the world.

- Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación

Scholarships for Canadians interested in further studies in Spain. - Teacher network

On-line master’s degree: Spanish as a foreign language teacher training (FOPELE).

- Comission on Cultural, Educational and Scientificc Exchange between Spain and the United States

Spanish culture scholarships in the United States. - European Union

Marie Curie program: activities designed to promote training and mobility in human resources.

Leonardo da Vinci grants. - Fundación Academia Europea de Yuste

European graduate studies scholarships. Other services: - Red Iris: This network has a service which is dedicated to the announcement of public and private research opportunities in addition to grants, prizes, research programs, etc. - Era-Careers: Publishes R&D employment opportunities and other research grants throughout Europe

6.2 Employment opportunities in research Almost all of the universities, university institutes, research centers, foundations and public organisms which were previously mentioned (See section 4.1.1) offer information concerning grants or other aid for those researchers wishing to work in the Canaries.

Finding work in the Canaries

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7 Finding work in the Canaries

7.1 Employment Offices The Canary Employment Service (SCE) is an autonomous institution which is part of the Consejería de Empleo y Asuntos Sociales del Gobierno de Canarias. The SCE offers job placement services and training courses for active and unemployed workers. Employment office network in the Canary Islands Province of Las Palmas

Name Address D.P. LAS PALMAS VELÁZQUEZ, 10 ARRECIFE JOSÉ ANTONIO, 108 ARUCAS MÉDICO ANASTASIO ESCUDERO RUIZ, 1 GÁLDAR CAIFA, S/N INGENIO ARTESANOS, S/N LAS PALMAS ARENALES SUÁREZ NARANJO, 78 LAS PALMAS-PUERTO DE LA LUZ PIZARRO, S/N ESQ. SECRETARIO PADILLA LAS PALMAS - CIUDAD ALTA PLAZA PLÁCIDO ÁLVAREZ BUYLLA, S/N LAS PALMAS-RAFAEL CABRERA PRESTACIONES MATÍAS PADRÓN, 97 LAS PALMAS-RAFAEL CABRERA EMPLEO C/ REPÚBLICA DOMINICANA, 4 PUERTO ROSARIO C/ TENERIFE, 37 SAN FERNANDO DE MASPALOMAS PROLONGACIÓN AV.DE TIRAJANA-MASPALOMAS VECINDARIO C/ ORCHILLA, 1 TELDE C/ JUAN DIEGO DE LA FUENTE, 40 ARRECIFE DE LANZAROTE-ISM VELACHO, 12 PUERTO NAOS ARGUINEGUÍN-ISM AVDA. DE LOS TÚNIDOS, S/N LAS PALMAS-ISM C/SIMÓN BOLÍVAR, 15 (SÓLO REG.ESP.MAR.) PUERTO ROSARIO-ISM ALMIRANTE LALLERMAND, S/N CNFO. LAS PALMAS CRUCITA ARBELO CRUZ, S/N Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Name Address D.P. TENERIFE C/ TOMÉ CANO, 12 LOS CRISTIANOS - ARONA EDIF. EL VERODAL MONTAÑA CHICA OFICINA EMPLEO DE GRANADILLA AROZARENA S/N GÜÍMAR AVDA. S/CRUZ, 42 ICOD DE LOS VINOS LAUREL, 26-28 LAGUNA,LA C/ ALFREDO TORRES EDWARS, S/N TACO-BARRANCO GRANDE C/ AVETORO,2 LLANOS DE ARIDANE,LOS C/ CONVENTO, 31 OROTAVA LA AVDA. MAYORAZGO DE FRANCHY, 19 PUERTO DE LA CRUZ EL PENÓN EDF ESMERALDA, 1 L-5 SAN SEBASTIÁN DE LA GOMERA AVDA. QUINTO CENTENARIO, S/N SANTA CRUZ PALMA A. CABRERA PINTO,16 SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE-GENERAL MOLA GENERAL MOLA, 37 TENERIFE-TOMÉ CANO C/ TOMÉ CANO,12


36

TACORONTE C/ SEBASTIÁN MACHADO, S/N VALVERDE - EL HIERRO C/ SAN FRANCISCO,18 LOS CRISTIANOS-ISM PUERTO, S/N ICOD DE LOS VINOS-ISM PLAYA DE SAN MARCOS, S/N SAN SEBASTIÁN DE LA GOMERA-ISM AVDA. FRED OLSEN, S/N SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA-ISM AVDA. BAJAMAR, 14 TENERIFE-ISM AVDA. ANAGA, S/N PUERTO DE LA RESTINGA-ISM C/ LA ORCHILLA S/N (LA RESTINGA) CNFO. LOS REALEJOS LOS CUARTOS, 42

7.2 University Foundations The University Foundations in both provinces have job placement offices for university students and graduates. Fundación Empresa Universidad de La Laguna

Avda. Veinticinco de Julio, 9 38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife ℡ 922 31 97 16

922 24 94 03 www.feu.ull.es

@ [email protected] Fundación Canaria Universitaria de Las Palmas

C/ Juan de Quesada, 30 35001 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria ℡ 928 45 96 46

928 45 80 09 www.fulp.ulpgc.es/estudiantes/

@ [email protected]

7.3 Other institutions Fundación Canaria para el Desarrollo Social (FUNDESCAN). FUNDESCAN is one of the centers associated with FUNCATRA (a placement agency with ICFEM). This center has created a specialized Professional Orientation and Placement Office (GOIP) in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. They also offer Professional Employment Orientation (OPEA) providing unemployed workers with resources which help in their job search, taking care to improve their qualifications. Internet Options It is also possible to learn about job openings from specialized Internet web sites, such as:

Web site Internet address Laborae www.laborae.com InfoJobs www.infojobs.net Acamboide www.acambiode.com Laboris www.laboris.net Computrabajo www.computrabajo.es JobLine / Monster www.jobline.es / http://www.monster.es Infoempleo www.infoempleo.com

Finding work in the Canaries

37

7.4 Chambers of Commerce The Chambers of Commerce provide many useful services, including access to a complete listing of positions wanted, opportunities as a sole proprietor or counseling in your own job search. Cámara Oficial de Comercio, Industria y Navegación de Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Plaza de la Candelaria, 6 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife ℡ 922 10 04 00

922 10 04 15 www.camaratenerife.com

@ [email protected] Cámara Oficial de Comercio, Industria y Navegación de Las Palmas.

C/ León y Castillo, 24 35003 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria ℡ 928 39 10 45

928 36 23 50 www.camaralaspalmas.org

@ [email protected] The CSPT (Chamber Service for Professional Training) was formed by the countries 39 Chambers to assist businesses and unemployed workers. If you are interested in forming part of the Chambers database, go to the following web page and follow instructions on how to insert your curriculum vitae: https://www.camaras.org/publicado/scop/public/index.php

7.5 Temporary Employment Companies - TEC These companies offer short term employment to workers and receive a commission based on the workers salary. Many workers choose to work for TEC’s because they offer positions which do not require university studies. Information about the Canary Island offices of the leading national temporary employment companies follows. Temporary Employment Companies located in the province of Las Palmas: http://www.paginasamarillas.es/resultados.asp?activ=ETT&prov=LAS+PALMAS&pgpv=1&mode=simple Temporary Employment Companies located in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife: http://www.paginasamarillas.es/resultados.asp?activ=ETT&prov=S%2E+C%2E+DE+TENERIFE&pgpv=1&mode=simple

7.6 First-time employment opportunities Dirección General de Juventud del Gobierno de Canarias offers special services for eligible youth who need assistance with their job search. These individuals may review available job openings, request guidance during their search or even receive assistance if they decide to form their own company.


38

Dirección General de Juventud

Las Palmas

Profesor Agustín Millares Carló, 18 Edificio de Servicios Múltiples II, 4ª planta 35071 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone 928 306 397 Fax 928 306 324 [email protected]

Dirección General de Juventud Santa Cruz de Tenerife

C/ San Sebastián, 53 Edificio Príncipe Felipe, 3ª planta 38071 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Telephone 922 474 154 Fax 922 473 533 [email protected]

Economy

39

8 Economy The Canary Islands have historically been entitled to a commercially free regimen based on exemptions from consumer tax, low indirect tax pressures and the absence of state monopolies. These economic and fiscal peculiarities have their origin in the 19th century, and were consolidated in the Canary Islands Economic and Taxation System (REF) in 1972. The fundamental idea behind the REF is to promote the social and economic development of the archipelago. When Spain joined the European Union, the REF was significantly modified by Laws 20/1991, 7 June, and 19/1994, 6 July, which included an important set of taxation and economic incentives which were oriented towards generating investment decisions and stimulating the modernization of the production and commercial sectors.

Canary Islands Special Zone (ZEC)

The ZEC is a low- taxation area which is created in the framework of the Economic and Taxation System of the Canary Islands (REF), whose objective is to promote economic and social development of the archipelago and diversify its productivity structure. The ZEC functions as a type of consortium between the Spanish State Governments and the Canary Islands Government. The Consortium is assigned to the Treasury department. The activities of the ZEC focus on supervising and counselling ZEC entities, in addition to promoting and facilitating necessary services so that the ZEC and the chosen entities function properly. Finally it is also its responsibility to manage the Official ZEC Entity Registry (ROEZEC). The ZEC was authorized by the European Commission in January, 2000. The Spanish Government then had to adapt the Canary REF regulations to the ZEC, according to the terms in the authorization. The time period to take advantage of the benefits of the ZEC is initially up to 31 December, 2008, extendable under prior authorization by the European Commission.

Reserva para Inversiones en Canarias (RIC).

The Canary Investment Reserve, hereafter RIC, is a fiscal instrument which is linked to the REF, and was devised with the aim of stimulating investment with the entities own resources, that is, an opportunity for those businesses which do business in the Canary Islands to self-finance their own investments. The RIC allows up to 90% of undistributed corporate profits to be reduced from the corporate taxable base in the calculation of Corporate Taxes. The amount applies to the investment that these entities, located in the Canary Islands, use from their profits to endow their own local investment, and offer clear tax-saving opportunities.


40

8.1 Taxes General Indirect Canary Tax (IGIC) This state tax is applied to the production of goods and services carried out by businessmen and professionals, in addition to the import of goods. Tax rates vary according to the situation. For more information, visit: www.gobiernodecanarias.org/hacienda/Informacion/Tributaria/Legislacion/Tributos_REF_IGIC/index.jsp

8.2 Canary Taxation Agencies AEAT (Agencia Estatal de Administración Tributaria) is the Spanish public organism that is responsible for the management of the state taxation and customs system. It also manages the resources of other Public Administration agencies at the national or European level. The following table offers information on different island delegations if you need to receive specific information or file taxes. Las Palmas

Office Address Telephone/Fax Special Office Code: 35600

Pz. de los Derechos Humanos, 1 35071 Las Palmas 928 302 000

Santa María de Guía Code: 35010

C/ Lomo de Guillén, S/N., 35450 Santa Mª de Guía 928 896 548

San Bartolomé de Tirajana Code: 35020

Av. Touroperador Tui, Parcela D, lote 31 Urbanización Campo Internacional 35100 Maspalomas, San Bartolomé de Tirajana

928 148 101 928 142 875

Office Address Telephone/Fax Fuerteventura Code: 35018

Av. 1º de Mayo, 92 35600 Puerto del Rosario 928 852 200

Lanzarote Code: 35004

C/ Vargas, 6 35500 Arrecife 928 802 419

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Office Address Telephone Office Code: 38600

Av. de José Antonio, 8 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife 922 842 000

La Laguna Code: 38023

C/ Padre Herrera, s/n 38207 La Laguna 922 261 609

Pto. De la Cruz Code: 38028

Polígono San Felipe. Edificio Bocatauce 38400 Puerto de la Cruz 922 386 611

Arona Code: 38006

Arquitecto Gómez Cuesta s/n 38660 Arona 922 797 009

Office Address Telephone Gomera Code: 38036

Av. de Colón, 15 38800 San Sebastián de la Gomera 922 871 374

Economy

41

Hierro Code: 38048

Av. Dacio Darias, 105 38900 Valverde del Hierro 922 550 779

La Palma Code: 38037

Ctra. de Bajamar, 10 38700 Santa Cruz de La Palma 922 411 216


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9 Health care A widely developed health care network is present in the islands, and includes both hospitals as well as private and public clinics which guarantee medical care for the regions population and the millions of tourists who visit throughout the year. Several medical groups and surgery units from various specialties in the region also have earned a national and even international reputation. The Consejería de Sanidad of Gobierno de Canarias is responsible for the coordination of all health care services in the Canary Islands, and fulfills these duties with the Canary Healthcare Center Agency (Servicio Canario de Salud (SCS) in Spanish).

9.1 Hospitals A list of the largest hospitals in both provinces follows:

Las Palmas Santa Cruz de Tenerife Gran Canaria Tenerife Complejo Hospitalario Materno Insular

928 444 500 928 444 000

Hospital Universitario Ntra. Sra. de Candelaria 922 602 000

Hospital Universitario de Gran Canaria Doctor Negrín 928 450 000 Hospital Universitario de

Canarias 922 678 000

Fuerteventura El Hierro Hospital General de Fuerteventura 928 862 000 Hospital Ntra. Sra. de Los

Reyes 922 553 536 Lanzarote La Palma Hospital General de Lanzarote 928 595 000 Hospital General de La Palma 922 185 000

La Gomera Hospital Ntra. Sra. de

Guadalupe 922 140 200 For more information visit: http://www1.evolucionsalud.com/hospital/canarias.htm

9.2 Health Clinics The Canary Healthcare Center (SCS) attends to the health care needs of the population and is made up of an extensive network of health clinics located throughout the entire Canary Archipelago. A complete list of these clinics is available at:

http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/sanidad/scs/aplicaciones/salida/formulariocs.htm

Health care

43

9.3 Private medical insurance It is also possible to pay for private medical insurance. However, it is first recommended that you compare prices and the initial coverage offered in the contracted insurance. Here is a list of some of the insurance companies which offer health care policies in the Canaries.

Ocaso Seguros www.ocaso.es La Previsión Mallorquina www.laprevisionmallorquina.es Asisa www.asisa.es Mapfre www.mapfre.com Adeslas www.adeslas.es Mutua Tinerfeña www.mutuatfe.es Sanitas www.sanitas.es Asepeyo www.asepeyo.es Caser www.caser.es

9.4 Pharmacies Prescription and non-prescription drugs are sold in pharmacies in Spain. Pharmacies remain open the same hours as other merchants. Specific pharmacies are on call during the weekends, and any pharmacy will list the name and address of those pharmacies on call that week. This information is also available in the local press. In addition there are pharmacies which are open 12 and even 24 hours. Pharmacies not only offer name brand medicine but also generic brands which are less expensive than their commercial counterparts and contain the same active ingredients. Homeopathic products are also distributed in pharmacies. Some herbalists also sell alternative natural medicines. Information concerning hours, on-call pharmacies, and addresses can be found at www.farmaciascanarias.com or check the local press.


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10 Legal aid Any type of judicial problem can be discussed at a police commissary where you can receive assistance. This chapter offers information about the judiciary, police commissaries that are available to the public and the recently created courts to address violence against women issues.

10.1 Judiciary The Portal de Juzgados y Tribunales offers useful information in its section dedicated to citizen interests, specifically in procedures. Information is also given about free legal advice, specifically the requirements to qualify and the steps to follow in order to receive this advice for those who do not have enough money to initiate a case or defend themselves against one. Information on how to request the application for the service, where to present it and which services are granted is available. In addition individuals can access a complete dictionary of legal terms. A list of the Legal Orientation services throughout Spain by Autonomous Community can be reviewed. Another source of information is the web page from the Viceconsejería de Justicia y Seguridad del Gobierno de Canarias, under the section dedicated to citizen interest. Here expanded information regarding free legal services is available or you can consult judicial proceedings where a lawyer is not necessary (for example, when the hearing when claims do not exceed 900 €) or when to access the law regarding victims of domestic violence. A list of all judiciary agencies in the region is available at Directorio Judicial.

10.2 Police commissaries If you are interested in requesting information about the local police a list is available at the Ministry of the Interior, where telephone numbers and addresses are given: http://www.mir.es/MIR/Directorio/Servicios_Perifericos/Cuerpo_Nacional_de_Policia/Comisarias/Islas_Canarias/ Other useful links can be found at: - Guardia Civil - Dirección General de la Policía - Policía Local de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Policía Local de Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Legal aid

45

10.3 Courts for violence against women These specialized courts were introduced to hear domestic violence cases against women. The identifying characteristic of these courts is that only women can use them, although men will not find themselves discriminated against since the procedure that is followed is the same as in any other case. Additional information on these courts is available at the Observatory of Domestic Violence, in addition to web page Instituto Canario de la Mujer. More information at:

Committee to investigate violence against women

Instituto de la mujer

900 100 009


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11 Lodging

11.1 Hotels The hotel industry in the Canary Islands is fully developed since tourism is a major source of income in the economy. Consequently it is easy to find lodging that meets your needs in price and quality. These web sites will be useful while searching for a place to stay: Las Palmas Gran Canaria http://www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo/11423.0.html?municipio=0&idioma

=1&destino=11424.0.html&ficha=11425 Fuerteventura http://www.canary-travel.com/Fuerteventura/DondeAlojarse-es.html Lanzarote http://www.lanzaroteisland.com/hoteles/ Santa Cruz de Tenerife Tenerife http://www.canary-travel.com/Tenerife/DondeAlojarse-es.html La Gomera http://www.canary-travel.com/La_Gomera/DondeAlojarse-es.html La Palma www.infoisla.org/lapalma/alojamientos.php El Hierro http://www.canary-travel.com/El_Hierro/DondeAlojarse-es.html A list of all the hotels in the region can be found at www.alojamientoscanarios.com/

11.2 Residence halls University housing is another possibility. These residence halls also offer other services aside from lodging. The following table summarizes housing information, telephone numbers and the web sites which belong to the residence halls at the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the Universidad de La Laguna. Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Residence hall Number of rooms Group Contact information

Residencia de Estudiantes

Tafira 100 rooms Colegio Sagrado

Corazón

Autovía del Centro s/n, km. 5.5. (Tafira Baja) Telephone: 928 356 200 Email: [email protected]

Residencia Campus de

Tafira 252 single rooms Universidad de LPGC

Campus Universitario de Tafira 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone: 928 451 148

Apartamentos Campus de

Tafira 77 double room

apartments Universidad de LPGCCampus Universitario de Tafira 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone: 928 451 148

Residencia Universitaria Las Palmas

26 double, 6 single rooms Universidad de LPGC C/ León y Castillo, 16 (Las Palmas)

Telephone: 928 451 148

Bungalows Tafira

4 one-room bungalows Universidad de LPGC

Campus Universitario de Tafira 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone: 928 451 148

Note: residence hall lodging is offered for the short term, not for the entire year.

Lodging

47

Universidad de La Laguna

Residence hall Number of rooms Group Contact Information

Residencia Universitaria Parque de las

Islas

280 single rooms Universidad de La Laguna

Camino de las Mantecas, s/n. Campus de Guajara 38200 - La Laguna Telephone: 922 651 802 E-mail: [email protected]

Colegio Mayor San Fernando

115 single and double rooms


C/ Delgado Barreto, s/n. Campus Central 38200 - La Laguna Telephone: 922 319 943 E-mail: [email protected]

Colegio Mayor San Agustín 136 single rooms Universidad de La

Laguna

C/ Nava y Grimón, 27 38201 - La Laguna Telephone: 922 319 979 E-mail: [email protected]

Colegio Mayor Santa María

143 single and double rooms


C/ Delgado Barreto, s/n Campus Central. 38200 - La Laguna Telephone: 922 319 607 E-mail: [email protected]

Additional information can be found at the following web pages: • University Lodging Service at the Universidad de Las Palmas de G.C.:

www.fulp.ulpgc.es/sau

• University Lodging Service at the Universidad de La Laguna: http://www.ull.es/alumnado/coleg_ull.html

11.3 Renting Real estate companies offer the fastest way of finding a place to rent. However, they charge one months rent for their services. Real estate agencies in your area can be found at the following web sites: • http://www.gobcan.es/vivienda/index.html • http://www.laspalmasgc.es/lpgc/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=130&ssS

ourceNodeId=27

11.4 Youth property exchange The aim of the Youth Property Exchange Program (Bolsa de Vivienda Joven) is to ease access to properties for younger individuals in any one of several ways, such as offering free rental fees, purchasing and financing of properties belonging to individual owners, and other guarantees, such as a series of legal and economic advantages for the individual in question. More information about this program is available at the web page of the Consejería de Empleo y Asuntos Sociales: http://www.juventudcanaria.com/es/areas/vivienda/index.php


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12 Services

12.1 Security related services Dial 112 in case of an emergency anywhere within the Canary Islands. This number can be used for personal security (i.e. police), for health care services (requesting an ambulance) or any other emergency (fire brigade, traffic, etc.). This number is free and can be accessed from any type of telephone, public or private, land or mobile. Each unit has its own direct telephone number, according to the type of emergency, and can be dialed from anywhere in Spain. They will then contact the appropriate local authorities: • Guardia Civil 062 • Bomberos 080 • Policía Nacional 091 • Policía Local 092 • Servicio Canario de Salud 112 • Cruz Roja 928 222 222 • Salvamento Marítimo 900 202 202 In addition, each local authority has its own telephone number within its own territory if direct communication is needed. The following table provides local telephone information in both provinces.

Province National Police Guardia Civil Local Police Red Cross

Las Palmas Policía Nacional Guardia Civil Policía Local Cruz Roja

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Policía Nacional Guardia Civil Policía Local Cruz Roja

12.2 Telephone and Internet If you want telephone and/or internet service in your residence you can contact one of the major telephone operators that work in Spain. Usually it takes 7 to 15 days for its installation. The telephone can be rented or bought. If you only plan on making local phone calls it is better to contract a mobile telephone. However, if you plan on making frequent international calls or surf the Internet it is probably better to obtain a land phone with an ADSL or cable connection. A complete list of companies that operate in Spain follows:

Services

49

Land phone Web site Contact information Telefónica www.telefonica.es http://www.telefonica.es/contacto/index.shtml ONO www.ono.es 1400 BT Telecomunicaciones www.bt.es 1433 Euskaltel www.euskaltel.es 1717 (particulares) / 900 840 200 (empresas)Jazztel www.jazztel.com 1565 Neo-Sky www.neo-sky.com 902 263 326 Tele2-Comunitel www.comunitel.es 1552 Tele 2 www.tele2.es 800 760 067 Orange www.orange.es 1414

Operator-assisted calls: Dial 1009. This number will allow you to request telephone calls where you reverse the charges, third-party billing, personal calls, and programmed time calls. International and national calls Information on area codes: http://blancas.paginasamarillas.es/prefijos/prefijos.jsp

11.2.1 Mobile telephones The main mobile telephone companies that operate in the Canaries are:

Company Web site Contact information Orange www.orange.es 1474 (móvil o fijo) Movistar www.movistar.es 1485 (desde fijo) / 609 (desde móvil) Vodafone www.vodafone.es 1444 (desde fijo) / 123 (desde móvil) Yoigo www.yoigo.com 1707 (móvil o fijo)

Go to this web page for addresses and telephones of general interest: http://blancas.paginasamarillas.es/telefonos/mapaprov.jsp

12.3 Electricity The electricity sector is currently undergoing deregulation. Consequently, one or several companies may be offering this service in the area where you live. UNELCO is the electricity supplier in the Canary Islands, and it belongs to the Endesa S.A. Group.

• Customer service 902 307 308 • Breakdowns 902 519 519


50

12.4 Gas It is still common to find residences in the islands that use bottled butane gas. In order to request this service contact DISA GAS S.L.U. in either the Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife province. They can be reached at 902 280 282 or you can visit their web page at www.disa-gas.es.

• Information: 928 218 000 • Incidents: 928 209 000

12.5 Water Water is a relatively inexpensive resource in the Canary Islands, even though dry periods affect the region from time to time. This experience has created a conscious island effort in conserving water and the establishment of saving spirit resulted in wells and water-storage facilities which collect water all-year round. It is especially important not to waste water during the summer months, since the intense heat can result in rapid drain on the built-up reserves. Usually water is distributed by local companies. Bills are sent every two months. Failure to pay can result in a suspension of service. Emalsa is the largest water distribution company in Gran Canaria. They can be contacted by telephone at 902 361 740 or through their web page www.emalsa.es. EMMASA has the same position in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. They can be reached at 922 606 400 or by web at www.emmasa.com. Information on other water companies follows: Gran Canaria Elmasa Eléctrica de Maspalomas, S.A. Telephone 928 778 899 www.elmasa.es

Aguas de Telde Gestión Integral del Servicio, S.A. Telephone 928 697 700 / 928 697 712 www.aguastelde.com

Canaragua Telephone 928 271 844 www.canaragua.es

Lanzarote

Fuerteventura

Inalsa Insular de Aguas de Lanzarote, S.A. Telephone 901 514 400 www.inalsa.es

Consorcio de Aguas de Fuerteventura Telephone 928 850 837 www.inalsa.es

Services

51

Tenerife Teidagua Telephone 900 200 563 www.teidagua.com

Entemanser Telephone 922 711 503 www.entemanser.com

Icodemsa Icod Empresa Municipal, S.A Telephone 922 815 685 http://www.icodemsa.com/

Canaragua Telephone 902 114 511 http://www.canaragua.es

La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro Servicio Municipal de Aguas Check with the respective city hall

12.6 Special domestic services Finding domestic help at reasonable prices is not that difficult. Workers usually charge by the hour, and the schedules and rates are agreed upon before starting. There are no additional complications. Some of these workers also take care of children or the elderly. Word of mouth is the most common means of finding domestic help in the region.

12.7 Personal belongings Furniture and personal effects from countries within the European Union are exempt from custom taxes. Contact the Spanish Consulate in your country for more information about bringing personal belongings to Spain.

12.8 Transportation

12.8.1 Airlines

Airports in the province of Las Palmas www.aena.es

Gran Canaria Autopista Gran Canaria, s/n Telde 928 579 000

Fuerteventura C/ Matorral s/n Puerto del Rosario 928 860 500

Lanzarote C/ Guacimeta, s/n San Bartolomé 928 846 000


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Airports in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife www.aena.es Tenerife Norte “Los Rodeos”

Los Rodeos 38297 - La Laguna 922 635 855

Tenerife Sur “Reina Sofía”

El Médano s/n,(Reina Sofía) Granadilla de Abona 922 759 200

La Palma El Pueblo 38730 – Breña Baja 922 426 100

La Gomera Playa De Santiago 38810 - Alajeró 922 895 333

El Hierro Valverde 38900 - Valverde 922 553 700

12.8.2 Land transportation

Buses Gran Canaria

Urban bus transport services in Gran Canaria are provided by two companies: Global Salcai Utinsa and Guaguas Municipales. The former offers bus services outside of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria while the latter has routes inside the capital.

Global Salcai Utinsa

Viera y Clavijo, nº 34 Telephone 902 381 110

www.globalsu.net

Guaguas Municipales

C/ Arequipa s/n

Telephone 928 305 800 www.guaguas.com

Lanzarote

Estación de Guaguas de Arrecife Vía Medular s/n 928 811 522

Fuerteventura

Estación de Guaguas de Fuerteventura Avda. Juan Carlos I, 12

Tenerife

TITSA is the company that is responsible for urban transportation in Tenerife. Information regarding timetables, routes and prices are available at

Transporte Interurbano de

Tenerife SA

Telephone 922 479 500 www.titsa.com

Services

53

La Gomera Estación de Guaguas de La Gomera Avda. 5º Centenario, San Sebastián de la Gomera

922 141 101 El Hierro Cooperativa Insular de Transportes C/ Molino 4, Valverde

922 551 175 La Palma

Transportes Insular Oficina Compañía de Transportes Avda. Indianos 14, S/C de la Palma 922 411 924

Taxi Taxi service in the Canary Islands is the same as in the rest of the country. Each municipality has its own public taxi service. Taxis will normally stop in the road; however you can also find designated taxi stops or request a taxi by telephone (radio-taxi service). All taxis use a meter, and the prices for special services (such as airport trips, after-hours, or holidays ...) should be posted within the traveller’s sight.

Euro - Taxis 928 462 222

Radio Taxis Las Palmas 928 461 818

Gra

n C

anar

ia

Taxi Radio 928 465 666

Radio taxi Ucanca 922 255 525 922 255 555

Aeropuerto Tenerife Norte 922 258 795

Tene

rife

San Marcos 922 641 459 922 641 112

Car rental There are many car rental companies in the Canary Islands. A short list of some of the major companies follows:

• CICAR: www.cicar.com • AVIS: www.avis.es • REISEN: www.autoreisen.es • EUROPCAR: www.europcar.es • HERTZ: www.hertz.es • RECORD www.recordrentacar.com


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12.8.3 Maritime Transportation Three companies are active in inter-island transportation: Naviera Armas, Líneas Fred Olsen and Trasmediterránea. Information concerning their routes, timetables, prices and office location can be obtained by visiting their web pages:

• Naviera Armas: www.naviera-armas.com • Líneas Fred Olsen: www.fredolsen.es • Acciona Trasmediterránea: www.trasmediterranea.es

12.9 Banks Local savings banks are present in the islands, in addition to all of the national banks. They are open to the public, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 until 2:00.

Entity Contact La Caja de Canarias (Caja Insular de Ahorros de Canarias) www.lacajadecanarias.es

Caja Canarias www.cajacanarias.es Caja Rural de Canarias http://www.ruralcanarias.com/ Caja Rural de Tenerife http://www.ruralvia.com/isum/Main?ISUM_Portal=5

12.10 Television The Canary Islands are no different than the rest of Spain when it comes to television. There are free channels and pay-per-view channels. The free channels include two state channels and three private national ones. Each Autonomous Community also has its own channel and their local market share is significant. Nevertheless, several new local channels have also appeared, and have gained a minor share of the audience. Parabolic antennae are common in many buildings, especially residential ones, and allow channels from all over the world to be seen. Land Digital Television is currently being installed in the region. It is a new system that allows viewers to have access to many more channels and also offers interactivity, based on Internet technology. Satellite Digital Television is also available through a platform known as Digital+. This platform offers a wide variety of channels, even offering channels by category, and is available at different prices and quality levels.

Media Status Web page Televisión Española TVE1 Public, Free, National www.rtve.es Televisión Española TVE2 Public, Free, National www.rtve.es Antena 3 Public, Free, National www.antena3tv.com Cuatro Public, Free, National www.cuatro.com Tele 5 Public, Free, National www.telecinco.es La Sexta Public, Free, National www.lasexta.es TV Autonómica Canaria Public, Free, Local www.tvcanaria.tv

Platforms Status Web page Imagenio Public, Pay, National www.telefonicaonline.com/on/es/imagenio TDT Public/Private, Free, National www.tdt.es

Services

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Digital+ Public, Pay, National www.plus.es


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13 Education

13.1 Schools Schools in the Canary Islands

The following web page lists all public and private schools in the Canary Islands, in addition to private bilingual centers.

http://www.gobcan.es/educacion/DGC/DirCentros/scripts/default.asp?categoria=37

Click on province (provincia) and center (tipo de centro) to obtain a list of centers which meet your needs.

Education in the Canary Islands Pre-university education in the Canaries is the same as in the rest of Spain, and is broken down into the following categories:

• Kindergarten/Pre-school (ages 3 to 6, non-compulsory) • Primary School (age 6 and on, compulsory) • Compulsory Secondary School (age 14 and on, compulsory) • Secondary School (age 16 and on, non-compulsory) • Vocational Education (age 16 and on, non-compulsory)

Education

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13.2 Libraries The Association of Canary Public School Librarians has created a directory which is made up of 398 libraries, broken down as follows: − 32 university libraries − 62 specialized libraries − 157 public libraries − 147 public school libraries Additional information on all Canary Islands libraries is available at http://biblioteca.ulpgc.es/. You can also visit a second web page: http://www.mcu.es/bibliotecas/MC/CBPE/index.html

13.3 Spanish and other language courses One of the most common options for studying Spanish prior to your arrival is to attend courses at the Instituto Cervantes. Find out where the nearest center is by visiting their web page at www.cervantes.es. The Escuela Oficial de Idiomas is a network of language centers which are located in all provinces in Spain (www.eoidiomas.es). These language schools are associated with the Consejerías de Educación (see section 13.1, searching under TIPO DE CENTRO: Escuela Oficial de Idiomas). The EOI offer specialized language courses to adults. They also offer Spanish courses for foreigners during the academic year at very reasonable prices. Other options are available in the islands. The Universidad de La Laguna has a center, known as the Servicio de Idiomas, which students can attend. Spanish for foreigners is one of their courses, and they are given each term. For more information, visit www.feu.ull.es/sidiomas. The Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria also has an Aula de Idiomas. One term courses in Spanish for foreigners are offered, depending upon the student’s level. The university also has a housing program to complement the courses. For more information, visit: http://www.cursoshispanicos.ulpgc.es/. Both of these university language centers offer other language courses. English, Italian, Portuguese, French, among others, are given at varying levels of difficulty. Students initially take a language examination to determine which course is right for them.


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13.4 Musical education Musical studies can be continued from your own country or even begin here at a Conservatory of Music. A complete listing of Conservatories in Spain is available at http://www.adolphesax.com/Html/conservatori.htm. In addition, contacts for both provinces follow. Las Palmas

Conservatorio Superior de Música de Las Palmas C/ Maninidra, 1 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Telephone 928 361 244


Conservatorio Superior de Música de Santa Cruz de Tenerife C/ Pedro Suárez Hernández, 2 Telephone 922 660 600

Musical Education is also taught at the municipal level. For more information, consult the local city hall.

Tourism, culture and leisure time

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14 Tourism, culture and leisure time Tourism is one of the main motors of the Canary economy. This sector has helped lower unemployment and improved the island infrastructures during the last decade. Traditional tourism development in the Canary Islands focused on low-cost activities based on leisure activities related to the beach. However, recent changes in tourist demand have changed and now different activities are being offered. This is the case for rural tourism, health and spa tourism or even dolphin and whale watching tourism. This decision has converted the archipelago into a unique tourist site.

14.1 Offices of tourism Las Palmas

Gran Canaria Fuerteventura Agüimes Pza. San Antón, s/n 928 124 183

Antigua C/ Alcalde Juan Ramón Soto Morales, 10 928 163 286 928 163 576 Arucas Pza. de la Constitución, 2

928 623 136 Betancuria C/ San Diego de Alcalá, s/n 928 878 092 Gáldar Pza. de Santiago n,1

928 895 855 La Oliva Avda. Marítima, 2 928 866 235 Ingenio C/ Pascual Richart (Casa de Postas), 2

928 783 799 Pájara Avda. El Saladar, s/n 928 540 776 Mogán Avda. de Mogán, s/n

928 158 804 Puerto del Rosario C/ Almirante Lallermand, 1 928 530 844 San Bartolomé de Tirajana Paseo Marítimo.

Centro comercial Anexo II, local 20 , 928 768 409

Aeropuerto Insular 928 860 604

San Nicolás de Tolentino C/ Doctor Fleming, 57 928 890 378

Tuineje C/ Nicaragua, s/n 928 162 723ext. 37

Lanzarote Santa Lucía de Tirajana Avda. de Canarias, s/n Vecindario 928 125 260

Arrecife Muelle de los Mármoles, s/n 928 844 690

Santa Brígida C/ José Antonio, 13 928 648 181

Playa Blanca El Varadero, s/n 928 519 018

Telde C/ León y Castillo, 2 828 013 312

Playa Honda (San Bartolomé) C/ Merlin, 1 928 820 308

San Bartolomé Aeropuerto. Terminal de Llegadas 928 820 704

Teguise Centro Comercial Los Charcos, Local 11 Avda. Islas Canarias, s/n 928 827 130


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Tenerife Santa Cruz de Tenerife C/ Imeldo Seris, 83 922 531 107

Los Realejos Pza. San Agustín, 7 922 346 181

Adeje C/ Rafael Puig de Lluvina, 1 922 750 633

Puerto de la Cruz Pza. de Europa, s/n 922 386 000

Arona C/ Tavio Alfonso, 5 922 725 203

San Cristóbal de la Laguna C/ Carrera, 1 922 601 106 Pza. del Adelantado 922 631 194 Santiago del Teide Avda. Marítima 922 860 348

El Paso Avda. Jose Antonio, 18 922 485 130 La Palma El Sauzal C/ La Constitución, 3 922 570 000

Santa Cruz de la Palma C/ O'Daly, 22 922 412 106 922 423 340 La Gomera

Granadilla de Abona Pza. de El Medano, s/n 922 176 002

San Sebastián de la Gomera C/ Real, 4 922 141 512

Icod de los Vinos C/ San Sebastián, 6 922 812 123 Valle Gran Rey

C/ La Calera, s/n 922 805 000 El Hierro

La Orotava C/ Carrera, 2 922 323 041

La Victoria de Acentejo Pza. de la Iglesia, s/n 922 580 031

Valverde C/ Doctor Quintero Magdaleno, 4 922 550 078

Los Llanos de Aridane Pza. Sotomayor, 31 922 401 899

Useful links Canary Islands Government Consejería de Turismo de Canarias http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/turismo/index.jsp

Cabildos Cabildo de Gran Canaria http://www.grancanaria.com

Cabildo de Tenerife http://www.cabtfe.es

Cabildo de Fuerteventura http://www.cabildofuer.es

Cabildo de la Gomera http://www.cabildogomera.org/index2.htm

Cabildo de Lanzarote http://www.cabildodelanzarote.com

Cabildo de La Palma http://www.cablapalma.es

Cabildo de El Hierro

http://www.elhierro.es


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Tourism Associations Patronato de Turismo de Gran Canaria http://www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo

Patronato de Turismo de Tenerife http://www.webtenerife.com/PortalTenerife/Home

Patronato de Turismo de Fuerteventura http://www.fuerteventuraturismo.com

Patronato de Turismo de la Gomera http://www.gomera-island.com

Patronato de Turismo de Lanzarote http://turismolanzarote.inerza.net

Patronato de Turismo de La Palma http://www.webtenerife.com/PortalTenerife/Home

Patronato de Turismo de El Hierro

http://www.elhierro.es/index.php?desktop=0010

14.2 Rural Tourism The diversity of natural ecosystems found in the Canaries, coupled with the richness of its traditions, its craftsmanship and rural life make the islands an ideal place to spend a vacation while reconnecting with Nature. A great variety of reformed traditional houses have emerged throughout all of the islands. Rural tourism is an example of how to combine respect for Nature and traditions with modern accommodations, thereby creating accessibility to rural areas. But development is not only limited to rural tourism. There are plenty of opportunities for new types of leisure activities: bicycle touring, horseback and camelback riding, excursions, gastronomy courses and craftsmanship. Information on all of these activities, with specific programs and contact information are available at the centers for tourist initiatives and tourism associations in each island.

For more information, visit www.saturno-canarias.com www.ecoturismocanarias.com

14.3 Health and spa tourism The Canary Islands recognize the importance of your health and have converted the regions facilities into another reason to visit the Archipelago. The Canaries offer in each of their seven islands impressive displays of natural beauty, which, together with many spas and health care centres, attend to your relaxation and well-being. Hotels have also recognized the importance of their visitors´ comforts and have provided their own infrastructure with these services, including modern gymnasiums, saunas and massage services, all in the interest of making your stay the healthiest possible. The best way for you to benefit from your stay in the region is to take advantage of activities which will improve your physical health or participate in activities to stimulate internal relaxation. The Canary Islands offer much more than just climate, the ocean, food and natural landscapes; it is possible to combine health and spa activities with tourism. Many establishments are now available which offer visitors beauty and health treatment options. Thalasso therapy, macro therapy, drainage, reflex therapy, algae, mud, arcillas, massages, saunas, thermal baths and jacuzis, form part of a complete solution to improve your body in a natural and professional setting. For further information concerning spas in the Canary Islands, visit www.canarias-turismo.com/es/productos/relax.php.


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14.4 Dolphin and whale watching tourism The Canary Archipelago is an exceptional place to observe cetaceans. Its optimal weather conditions throughout the year, the ease in predicting sightings, its accessibility to different areas, and the infrastructure and existent capacity are all important factors that come into play when understanding why the region provides a stable environment for communities of tropical blackfish and mule dolphins (the area contains 25 of the 79 existent species). The southwest coast of La Gomera may be the only place in the world where such a large variety of whales and dolphins can be found. More than 20 species are seen on a regular basis, usually quite close to the coast. The area provides an opportunity to not only observe these species but also to study their natural habitat. Dolphin and whale watching tourism is characterized by offering its enthusiasts a wide variety of sea related activities. Businesses that offer these excursions also provide additional services, thus creating a playful yet educational setting for the entire family. This activity continues to attract interest throughout the year, with limited changes in its intensity.

14.5 Culture If the Canaries are viewed from a cultural perspective, then it is synonymous with a racial mix, an inherited trait from its historical role in the transport of travelers to an open society where all visitors are welcome. History has left a rich treasure in archeology, art, architecture and ethnography: a testament to the cultural evolution in the region. This historical patrimony represents the islands identity, and its richness has been accompanied by diverse cultural and artistic contributions, bestowing the archipelago with a collection of unique characteristics in such a small territory. A number of cultural exhibits and popular festivals are available throughout the year: expositions, museums, exhibits and internationally prestigious events, seen in classical music festivals, opera, theater and dance, film and jazz. Different towns also showcase folkloric traditions through traditional dances and music, using instruments such as the timple, a small guitar variety. Original clothing, hemstitching, pottery and musical instruments are just some areas which represent the wide variety of craft in the islands. There are still relics from aboriginal times and even times prior to Columbus. Some of the most important archeological discoveries are found in Cenobio de Valerón and Cueva Pintada de Gáldar in Gran Canaria, and Túmulo and Necrópolis de la Guancha in Tenerife. Regional sports can not be forgotten, where Lucha Canaria (a form of wrestling), el Juego del Palo and Salto del Pastor are favorites.


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Related web sites

14.6 Gastronomy The Canary racial mix with the Americas is evident in the local gastronomy. The main ingredients are gofio, a toasted wheat, corn and barley flour which also shares the role of being the local culinary symbol, and is served as an accompaniment to any dish. These items are found in watercress stew, in the broths which are part of fish (sea bass or cherne) casseroles. Some of the best flavors to discover from the sea include: seasoned catfish, sea bass, small marine snails, limpets, pejines and octopus. Sancocho is one of the most delicious dishes, often prepared with cherne. Equally delicious meals are provided by the land. Small wrinkly potatoes (papas arrugadas) are typically served with traditional sauces (mojo picón). Another standard dish is puchero canario, a light vegetable stew. Meat dishes can not be left out: some which stand out are: young goat fricassee, rabbit and lamb. As mentioned previously, gofio is offered in several varieties, included with sugar, while being served with other dishes. Cheeses from the Archipelago are sought out by visitors to the islands. Consumer demand for cheese production is satisfied locally. Fuerteventura, Arico (Tenerife), El Hierro, La Palma, Valsequillo and Guía (Gran Canaria) are just some of the best-known cheese-producing areas. Of course all of the islands offer their own variety. Imagine all of these gastronomic wonders accompanied by wines which were acclaimed by Shakespeare. Some of the best known are the whites from La Geria (Lanzarote) and those produced by Wine Regulation Councils and Designation of Origin found in the wine producing areas in Tenerife: Abona, Valle de Güimar, Tacoronte-Acentejo, Valle de la La Orotava and Ycoden-Daute-Isora. Other islands which also have their Councils are Gran Canaria, La Palma and El Hierro. Bananas, (number one producer in all of Europe), tomatoes, papayas and mangos are also grown in the Canaries. Dessert can not be forgotten as we settle down with some local pastries to be washed down with some Arucas rum of different fruit liqueurs. Related web sites Gastronomy of the Canaries http://www.grancanaria.com/patronato_turismo/4785.0.html

History of Canaries http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/educacion/culturacanaria/historia/historia.htm Cultural Agenda of the Canary Islands http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/cultura/ Photos of the Canary Islands www.canarias-foto.com/es Culture – Cabildo de Gran Canaria http://portal.grancanaria.com/portal/home.cult


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14.7 Archeological sites The Canary Islands possess an important archeological heritage which lets us travel into the past and experience how the original inhabitants of the archipelago went about carrying out daily activities. These ruins offer opportunities to learn more about this group, a topic which has fascinated researchers, and also reveal how much we still need to learn. The main archeological sites are listed below, although additional information can be obtained by visiting the web pages of each island Cabildo or checking the following link: http://www.canarias.org/esp/turismo/unica.html# Gran Canaria Barranco de Guayadeque (Agüimes) Necrópolis de Arteara (San Bartolomé de Tirajana) Cuatro Puertas (Telde) Poblado de Tufia (Telde) La Restinga / Llano de la Brujas (Telde) Cenobio de Valerón (Santa María de Guía) La Cueva Pintada (Gáldar) Bocabarranco / El Agujero / La Guancha (Gáldar) Necrópolis de Maipés (Agaete) Bentayga / Cuevas del Rey (Tejeda) Poblado de Caserones (Aldea de S. Nicolás)

Tenerife Aripe (Guía de Isora) Barranco de El Muerto (Santa Cruz de Tenerife) Barranco del Pilar (Santa Cruz de Tenerife) Masca (Buenavista del Norte) Molinos de Barranco Grande y Cuevas Blancas (El Rosario) Morro Grueso (Adeje) Roque de Malpaso (Arona) Roque de Vento (Arona) Yacimiento arqueológico Los Cabezazos (Tegueste)

Lanzarote Yacimiento arqueológico de Zonzamas (Teguise)

La Palma Cueva de la Zarza (Garafía) Belmaco (Villa de Mazo)

Fuerteventura Barranco de Cavadero (La Oliva) Cueva de Villaverde (La Oliva) La Pared de Jandía (Pájara) La Montaña de Tindaya (La Oliva) La Atalayita (Antigua)

La Gomera Fortaleza de Chipude (Vallehermoso) Cueva de Guadehum o Cueva del Conde (San Sebastián)

El Hierro

El Julán (Frontera)

14.8 Museums

A partial list of the regional museums network follows:


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Las Palmas

• Casa Museo Pérez Galdós: This museum is located in the childhood home of novelist Benito Pérez Galdós, and represents a typical Canary residence from the 18th century. An important collection of the writer’s documents are conserved in the museum, which includes his library and personal files. Address: C/ Cano, 6, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Telephone: 928 366 976. For more information, click here.

• Casa de Colón: This museum contains thirteen salons which are permanently available to the public, a library, and research center dedicated to specific studies, in addition to changing seasonal activities. Address: C/ Colón, 1, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Telephone: 928 312 373. For more information click here.

• Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM): Located in an old large house from the Vegueta neighborhood in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, this museum focuses on historical and geographical research among the Asian, American and European continents. Address: C/ Los Balcones, 11. Telephone: 928 311 824. For more information click here.

• Museo Canario: This scientific Institution dates to 1880. It presently houses one of the most complete collections of Cro-Magnon remains. Address: C/ Dr. Chil, 25, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Telephone: 928 315 600. For more information click here.

• Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología: This museum houses more than twenty areas which are dedicated to reconstruct and reproduce the most important scientific advances, all part of an interactive scientific dissemination center, whose slogan is "Please touch". It also has a large screen viewing area. Address: Parque de Santa Catalina s/n, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. For more information click here.


• Museo de Historia de Tenerife (Museo Lercaro): This museum offers a general description of the social, economic, institutional and cultural development view of the islands from the 15th century to the 20th century. Address: C/ San Agustín, La Laguna. Telephone: 922 209 320. For more information click here.

• Museo de La Ciencia y el Cosmos The main objective of this museum is to stimulate the curiosity and interest of the general public in science. Activities including astronomical observations, lab demonstrations, planetary sessions, and film projections are just some of its attraction. Address: C/ Vía Láctea s/n La Laguna. Telephone: 922 263 454. For more information click here.

• Museo de La Naturaleza y el Hombre. This museum fulfills several missions. It is not only used for research but also the dissemination of nature, flora and fauna. Address: C/ Fuentes Morales s/n. Telephone: 922 209 320. For more information click here.


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14.9 Music, theater and cinema A complete guide to leisure time activities in both provinces is available at www.ociocanarias.net. You can also visit the web pages of the local theaters:

Theaters Web page City

Auditorium of Tenerife www.auditoriodetenerife.com Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Alfredo Kraus Auditorium www.auditorio-alfredokraus.com Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Guimerá Theater www.teatroguimera.es Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Pérez Galdós Theater www.promocionlaspalmas.com Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Cuyás Theater ww.teatrocuyas.com/ Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

A partial list of regional festivals follows:

• Canarias Music Festival: The Canarias Musical Festival started in 1985, the same year as the “European Year of Music” Festival. It has been held every year since then, beginning 7 January and ending in the last week of February. A select program of classical music is offered for two months. Visit www.culturadecanarias.com for more information.

• WOMAD Canarias Festival: This festival takes place in November and includes music, arts and dance from all over the world. More information is available at www.womadlatino.com

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria International Film Festival: This festival normally takes place during March and April each year. More information is available at www.festivalcinelaspalmas.com

• Canarias Jazz Festival: Visit www.canariasjazz.com

• Gran Canaria Opera Festival: Visit www.festivaldeopera.com/

• Tenerife Opera Festival: Visit www.puntoinfo.idecnet.com

14.10 Sports The Canary Islands, as in any other part of Spain, possess several modern infrastructures for any kind of sport. The Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport lists information regarding sporting installations and infrastructures. Visit http://www.csd.mec.es/csd/instalaciones . Both the Universidad de La Laguna and the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria maintain sporting facilities for many activities, either in the open air or under cover. Football, basketball, volleyball and sailing are a few examples that are available. The vast supply of beaches in the region allows residents and tourists to participate in water sports such as surfing and windsurf. Polo Izquierdo beach in Gran Canaria has been the setting for the World Windsurf Championships. Other notable beaches are Médano in Tenerife, Las Cucharas in Lanzarote, and Sotavento in Fuerteventura. Sailing, scuba, water skiing and underwater fishing are other popular activities. .


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14.11 Canary festivals Most of the festivals that are celebrated in the Canary Islands have religious origins, even though this aspect of the festival has essentially disappeared. Several others commemorate an aboriginal tradition; for instance those celebrating the arrival of a new season or a specific time of the year. Other festivals (those of a pagan nature) are exclusively celebrated in the Archipelago, such as the Fiesta de la Rama or El Charco. The most important festivals in terms of religious importance are the days commemorating the Virgen de la Candelaria and Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, both in Tenerife; the Virgen del Pino, in Gran Canaria; the Virgen de las Nieves, in La Palma; the Virgen de la Peña, in Fuerteventura; the Virgen de los Dolores, in Lanzarote; the Virgen de Guadalupe, in La Gomera, and the Virgen de los Reyes, in El Hierro. Almost every one of these festivals has its own romeria, where the locals dress up in the traditional clothing of their island village, otherwise known as the traje de mago. These outfits resemble the type of clothing worn by the earlier islanders who worked in the fields. Carnival is one of the most important tourist activities within the Canary Archipelago at present, especially in the capitals of each province. Both Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria receive great multitudes of tourists who wish to participate in the Carnival. Both the Church and Civil Authorities disapproved of this festival during centuries because of the nature of the festival and its pagan origins. The local authorities decided to rename the celebration as Winter Festival until 1976, even though the Carnival was recognized as a National Tourist Event. Independent of its name, the festival has conserved its satiric traditions directed towards all public institutions, led by the murgas and their songs. Tourist or local, if you need to go wild for a few days your best bet is in Carnival. More information is available at the Canary Islands Government website www.vivecanarias.com


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15 Information of interest The purpose of this section is to offer a summary of diverse information which may be of interest to the visitor, for example, addresses of public organisms or local road conditions. The following website offers telephone numbers and addresses of general interest.

http://blancas.paginasamarillas.es/telefonos/mapaprov.jsp Province of Las Palmas: http://pdf.paginasblancas.es/GC_A4_informativas.pdf Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife: http://pdf.paginasblancas.es/TFA4_informativas.pdf

15.1 Local holidays In addition to national holidays, the following table lists the regional festivals in the Canary Islands:

Month Day Holiday February 2 Día de la Candelaria (Tenerife) February -- Shrove Tuesday (*)

May 30 Día de Canarias August 5 Ntra. Sra. De Las Nieves (La Palma)

September 8 Ntra. Sra. Del Pino (Gran Canaria) September 15 Ntra. Sra. De los Dolores (Lanzarote) September 16 Ntra. Sra. de la Peña (Fuerteventura) September 25 Ntra. Sra. De los Reyes (El Hierro)

October 9 Ntra. Sra. De Guadalupe (La Gomera) * Shrove Tuesday varies each year because of its religious dependence. It is held the day before Ash Wednesday in the same week as Good Friday, coinciding with the third full moon of the year.

15.2 Regional press The local press with the largest circulation follows:

Newspaper Web page Content Province

Canarias 7 www.canarias7.es Local Las Palmas

La Provincia Diario de Las

Palmas www.editorialprensacanaria.es/ Local Las Palmas

Canarias Ahora www.canariasahora.com Local Las Palmas

El Mundo La Gaceta de

Canarias www.lagacetadecanarias.net

Local and National

Ambas provincias

Diario de Avisos www.diariodeavisos.com Local Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Information of interest

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La Opinión www.laopinion.es Local Santa Cruz de Tenerife

El Día www.eldia.es Local Santa Cruz de Tenerife

15.2.1 Canary digital press Local news, including all sections of the traditional media are also available on-line through their own web site.

Digital Newspaper Web Page Content Offcanarias www.offcanarias.com Regional

Canarias Ahora www.canariasahora.com Regional Canarias24horas www.canarias24horas.com Regional

15.3 Canary Islands Government telephone information assistance - 012

Citizens and residents can dial 012 to quickly obtain information on activities related with education, security, legal affairs or taxes, among others. The Canary Islands Government offers this telephone services 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This telephone service allows the user to ask for general information on the Canary Islands Public Administration, and access other services, such as: • Doctor appointments: Request appointments with family doctors, pediatricians,

nurses and midwives at the Health Clinics belonging to the Canary Health Service. • Education: Obtain information on financial aid, vocational education, PTA´s, teacher

listings, among others. • Suggestions: Make proposals to improve the functioning of the Public Administration. • Employment: Gain access to information on available training and employment

opportunities. Register personal data with the Employment Offices. Both services are carried out with telephone calls.

• Minors and family: Ask for an appointment to obtain a family status card. Information on adoptions, guardianship or custody is available, including children at risk, or suggestions and requests for the physically handicapped, disabled or senior citizens.

• Taxes: Dial 012 to resolve questions about regional taxes (IGIC, Capital transfers, etc.).

• Youth issues: Receive answers to questions about sex, sexually transmitted diseases, property opportunities for younger buyers, voluntary organizations, youth cards, etc.

• Subsidies: Allows businesses and individuals to obtain information on different calls for subsidies and financial assistance, and inform applicants of their case status. Reasons for incomplete applications are also provided.

• Energy: Information on the expiration dates of butane gas installations, on panel installation and installation inspector examinations.

• Transportation: Information on air and sea trips, as well as other types of public land transport.


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15.4 Post Office The most important telephone numbers within the Post Office are:

Customer service 900 506 070

Call-in telegrams Las Palmas: 928 222 000

Tenerife: 922 222 000

General information 902 197 197

You can find the nearest post office location by visiting the Post Office web page at: www.correos.es/contenido/13-MenuRec2/06-MenuRec26/1030-Oficinas.asp

15.6 Roads You can check on road conditions or ask other questions at these telephone numbers, or check the web page of the Traffic Department www.dgt.es

Traffic Department Information

Center 900 123 505

Provincial Traffic Headquarters

928 381 818

Traffic Department

Tenerife 922 227 840

15.7 Consumer information Use these telephone numbers for questions regarding consumer information:

National Consumer Goods Board

914 311 836

Ministry of Health and Consumer Goods

915 961 090

Office for the insured 902 102 900

You can also go to the Municipal Office of Consumer Information (OMIC in Spanish). This office provides answers to citizens´ questions as well as offering specific courses. It also cooperates with the Local Police in the inspection of commercial establishments and street trading. Contact the city hall in your area for more information (see table of City Halls).

15.8 Meteorology The National Institute of Meteorology is responsible for providing weather forecasts, which are available on-line at (www.inm.es) or by calling the following telephone numbers:

International 906 365 388

National 906 365 365

Province 906 365 335

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 928 430 600

Maritime Forecast 906 365 373

Meteorology Information 906 422 868


922 213 222

Information of interest

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15.9 Women’s Issues The aim of the Instituto de la Mujer (Women’s Institute) is to promote conditions of social equality for both sexes and encourage women’s participation in political, cultural, economic and social issues. Additional information can be found at:

Instituto Canario de la Mujer 928 306 330

Women’s Support Service Consejería of Employment and Social Affairs

900 506 968 Women’s Counseling Service

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria City Hall 928 289 630

Centro Municipal de la Mujer S/C de Tenerife City Hall

922 205 415 Committee for the investigation

of abuse to women 900 100 009

General Information Instituto de la Mujer

900 191 010

15.10 City Halls The City Hall office is a local administrative organism and is the one which is most easily accessed by citizens. Its responsibility is to oversee the activities of the municipality. A list of all city halls is available at: http://www.gobcan.es/otros/igs_otros_enti.jsp

15.11 Cabildos A Cabildo (Island Council) is a Spanish public administrative entity only found in the Canary Islands. Its history goes back to 1927, when the Cabildo Law was passed. Cabildos assume intermediate administrative responsibilities between provincial representatives and the Autonomous Communities.

Cabildo de Gran Canaria www.grancanaria.com/

Cabildo de Fuerteventura www.cabildofuer.es/

Cabildo de Lanzarote

www.cabildodelanzarote.com/

Cabildo de Tenerife www.cabtfe.es/

Cabildo de La Gomera www.cabildogomera.org/

Cabildo de El Hierro www.el-hierro.org/

Cabildo de La Palma www.cablapalma.es/


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15.12 Autonomous Community institutions

Audit Office www.acuentascanarias.org/

Advisory Board www.consultivodecanarias.org/

Public Deputy www.diputadodelcomun.com/

Parliament http://www.parcan.es/

Documents

The mobile researcher’s guide to the Canary Islands...The mobile researcher’s guide to the Canary Islands 8 2.1 Geography The Canary Islands are located opposite the north coast