Readers’ Lanzarote Letters

Our readers regularly send us messages and emails regarding Lanzarote, here are some of your thoughts that we printed in the May edition.

Readers are reminded that views and comments expressed within the Ed’s Postbag page are those of the contributors and may not necessarily reflect the opinions or standpoint of our staff. It should also be noted that we are an independent publication free from political persuasion or governmental censorship.

We publish your letters! Have something you want to say or something to get off your chest? Send your letters to editorial@gazettelife.com to have your thoughts featured.

WHAT CAN TOURISTS DO?

Hi,

As a British holiday maker who visits Lanzarote twice a year for holidays, staying in hotels around the Matagorda area, we hire a car from Cicar, we eat out almost every day, we never go all inclusive, we don’t drink alcohol at all, we do smoke, I’m afraid, but always bin the butts. We visit various attractions every time we come and have been to them all many times.

What is it we can do to make it better for the locals because I don’t want to stop coming to Lanzarote as I just love the place, but neither do I want to play a part in destroying your gorgeous island.

I consider myself a “quality” holiday maker because I cause no trouble, spend plenty of money and try my best not to cause any harm to the people or the place, but I do understand the problems the islanders have. You should put a daily tax visitor tax on and use that money for sustainability project. We are due out on 25th and feel saddened that our presence upsets the locals, but we fully understand why.

Kind Regards,
Steve Pickles

Ed: I can assure you that your presence upsets absolutely nobody, Steve. No one is asking tourists to do anything other than treat the island with the respect, affection, and loyalty that you clearly demonstrate. The tourist tax is an idea that’s gaining support, but like the whole issue of overtourism, that is a matter for our local authorities to decide. We hope you enjoy your stay!

WATER CUTS

Dear Gazette,

Have you researched the repeated water cuts going on this island this year? I can’t see an article in this subject. We must have had 10 water cuts in the last 6 months sometimes lasting up to 5 days. I can’t get a straight answer from Canal Gestión. It would just be nice to know why and if there is anything being done about it.

Phil, via Email

Ed: We’ve covered the issue several times, Phil. It’s a long and depressing story of mismanagement, under- investment and buck-passing and, although temporary measures have been taken, there’s no sign that the long-term issue is being seriously addressed, probably because doing so will cost a lot of money.

BINBAG MOUNTAIN

Dear Editor,

As an owner of an apartment on the lovely Barranco Seco complex, C/ Pedro Barba, Puerto del Carmen, unfortunately all the owners and guests have to walk past awful, disgusting bins to enter and exit the complex on a daily basis and usually the pavement is also covered with broken glass and spilt wine, I do know that some owners and nearby residents have contacted the Ayuntamiento about the problem to no avail.

Welcome to Lanzarote!!!

Regards,
Norman Latham

Ed: What a mess, Norman. It looks like a local business needs to be reminded of its recycling duties.

DIFFICULT SUMMER AHEAD

Dear Gazette,

It’s baffling how they’re pushing for more tourism while ignoring the fact that soon there won’t be enough water or food for anyone, including themselves. This shortsightedness could eventually force people to leave the island altogether. It is unheard of how the government does not think about the consequences of its decisions.

Regards,
Ana

NEW FAN

Dear Editor,

I was introduced to the Gazette while I was in Lanzarote in March and found it a very informative magazine to read with all the different stories along with phone numbers that you may need while on the island, I come to Lanzarote twice a year and will now always pick up a copy when I am there.

Many thanks,
Gary Lewington

Ed: Thanks Gary. Praise is always welcome. Hope to see you back soon.