Reader’s Letters – January 2026

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

FESTIVE FLAVOUR

Dear Ed,

I’ve just seen a gigantic snowman and a huge squirrel on Arrecife’s seafront, all lit up for Christmas. Very festive, I’m sure, but do locals even know what snowmen and squirrels are? I don’t think either have ever been spotted on Lanzarote.

Dan Reed

Ed: We rushed up to the mountains to try and make Lanzarote’s first ever snowman when they were briefly covered in white a few years ago, but it turns out that slushy hailstones are not much use for snowman-making.

BULKY RUBBISH

Dear Gazette,

Why do so many people dump bulky items near rubbish containers? I’ve just passed a collection area with a mattress and a broken microwave. Not only does it look terrible, but it can even obstruct the pavement.

Yours Kelly, via email

Ed: It’s illegal, Kelly, and can bring substantial fines. However, it’s not easy to catch culprits – some councils have installed cameras in areas where it happens frequently There’s also a custom of leaving items that could be re-used by others by the side of bins.

 There’s no organised recycling of this kind on Lanzarote – even the Punto Limpios throw everything in large skips – but it remains illegal. Contact charities if you’ve got decent items you want to get rid of.

LIGHT QUERY

Hi,

I was just reading about the new law requiring emergency lights in all cars in your December issue. How does this work for hire cars? Is it the responsibility of the car hire company to put the light in or does the hirer have to bring their own?

Thanks, Karen Ward

Ed: Hire companies are legally required to provide lights with all vehicles, Karen. However, if they fail to do so there is a possibility that the driver could be fined as well. Best to check in advance.

MOZZIE ADVICE

Hi,

We’re coming over in January and are a bit worried about mosquitoes. Are they a problem in winter? We’re staying in Puerto del Carmen.

D. Sewell

Ed: They can be, especially a few days after rain, but it’s entirely dependent on where you are. Keep windows closed at night, especially at twilight, and try and get a draught airing the room when you’re not there – they hate wind. Citronella sprays and plug-ins are available in local shops and many locals swear by a baby fragrance called Nenuco.

SWIM SAFE

Dear Gazette,

How safe is it to swim on Lanzarote at this time of year? We’ve seen reports of the terrible drownings, but would love to take a New Year’s dip while we’re over.

Rob & Kathy Moore

Ed: the resorts are usually safe for bathing – a green flag means it’s OK – and the water is warm enough to stay in comfortably for at least 20 minutes. Outside the resorts, check for weather alerts, stick to flagged beaches and do not think of swimming off the north coast at any time.