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Discovering the Majestic Cliffs of Los Gigantes in Tenerife Introduction:
Author: John Beckley
Supporting Canary Green sustainable nonprofit
Los Gigantes Properties are proud to support Canary Green.
Recently, we linked with Canary Green and became a member of their High Five Club. We are delighted to be one of the many companies who have pledged to award this non-profit organisation with €1,000 a year, for five years.
Based in Tenerife, Canary Green is a dedicated, English-speaking team led by founder John Dale Beckley. The company strive to educate and raise awareness on sustainable tourism across the Canary Islands.
Canary Green’s mission is: ‘We are committed to a sustainable future.’
There is no time like the present to address the future, and sustainability is the word on everybody’s lips right now.
Over the past few years, the threat of climate change has made a dramatic impact on the decisions each of us make on a daily basis. Attributable increasing, shocking media coverage and undeniable harsh facts, we have all become more economically aware.
Trends such as ‘plogging,’ hydro cars and ‘meat free Mondays’ have taken the world by storm, and are only gathering momentum.
The Canary Green team have explored a number of these trends, showcasing a sprinkling of the splendor that lies on our doorstep here in Tenerife.
Sustainability doesn’t have to start and end within the sanction of our individual homes. In order to further our understanding of sustainability, we must think outside the box. 16 million tourists visit the Canary Islands every year. How many of us consider sustainability when travelling abroad?
The preservation of our precious local communities – both home and away – is of paramount importance, and this urgency is something we are all responsible for. It ultimately starts with respect; respect for the environment, respect for traditions, and respect for culture.
Respect is born from understanding.
Understanding is born from education.
Immersing oneself in the culture of our holiday destination is both rewarding and enriching.
Simple swaps such as steering clear of fast food chains in favour of an independent restaurant serving up locally sourced fish can go a long way. These little gestures help to cement a bond between local communities and tourists. The gift of supporting these small businesses is a prime example of giving something back.
Canary Green work alongside local businesses and communities to celebrate and promote their hard work and devotion. Their humble, unsung efforts keep our islands shining, and the spotlight shone by Canary Green has really highlighted the beating heart of Tenerife.
‘We want to improve the environmental well being of the Canary Islands community and in turn create a positive worldwide impact’ – John Dale Beckley
Canary Green share their sustainable discoveries from across the island through their various vibrant media channels. From horse rescue sanctuaries and eco-friendly whale watching, to vegan brunches infused by local flavors and ingredients and stunning restaurants decorated with recycled materials – Tenerife is taking massive strides in the name of sustainability.
To find out more about sustainable tourism in the Canary islands visit www.CanaryGreen.com to donate to Canary Green visit https://www.canarygreen.org/contribution/
Step Inside This Stunning Turn-Key Luxury Apartment in Los Gigantes
Has the idea of relocating been playing on your mind in recent months? Perhaps the recent turn of events has made you rethink your retirement plans and now the warm sunny shores of Tenerife south are looking more appealing than ever before. Whatever it is that has sparked your interest in island living, don’t miss out on an incredible luxury property that has the potential for becoming your dream home in the sun. Discover this amazing 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom turn-key property that is ready to become your future home.
Own a Slice of Paradise in Tenerife South
Located on the south-west coast of the island, this fully refurbished, modern apartment is ideal for a young couple who want to be at the centre of island living or as a retirement villa for those in search of the sun. It is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, away from the hustle and bustle of the town of Los Gigantes but still, a walkable distance from some of the best bars and restaurants in the area. The property boasts meditative ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see as well as a glimpse of the neighbouring island of La Gomera. It is easy to imagine walking out onto the sun terrace in the evening and being hypnotized by the fiery sunsets, typical of the area.
Key Features of this Calle Palmera, Los Gigantes Apartment for Sale
The recent renovations to the property have created an open-plan, modern appearance that exudes quality and refinement. No detail has been overlooked and despite being an apartment, it offers copious amounts of storage space throughout the home. The most stand-out feature is the fact that it is a turn-key property, meaning you can simply turn the key, unpack and let your dream life in paradise begin. Another noteworthy fixture is the lock-up garage, providing an extra level of security and peace of mind for those wanting to leave the property for long periods of time. But, what really sells this property is the fabulous private sun terrace which delivers unbeatable ocean views that can be enjoyed while dining al-fresco or soaking up the sun on the luxurious sun loungers.
Other important details to highlight include:
- Spacious master bedroom with access to a sun terrace and ensuite bathroom
- Modern family bathroom
- Large guest room with access to a balcony
- Floor to ceiling built-in wardrobes in both bedrooms
- Open plan fully furnished kitchen
- Indoor-outdoor living space with stunning ocean views
- Private lock-up garage
- Direct access to public transport
- Walkable from the town
Los Gigantes – An Oasis of Calm in Tenerife South
In the 1960s, Los Gigantes was declared an area of National Turistic Importance and it has since proven its beauty and charm time and time again. The breathtaking natural coastline, the wealth of activities on offer as well as the varied selection of bars and restaurants make it a desirable destination for all ages. It is the ideal location for those in search of a beachside property away from the overcrowded resorts and it is also an enclave for supporters of sustainable living.
There is so much to see and do in Los Gigantes:
- Enjoy a beach day at Playa de la Arena
- Play Golf at world-class courses just 10 mins away
- Discover a kaleidoscope of marine life on a scuba diving adventure
- Hike the wild terrain the encircles the seaside village
- Gather with friends and watch the world go by in one of the beachfront cafes
Buying Property in Tenerife – Everything You Need to Know
It may be nerve-wracking to think about the complexities of buying a property in Tenerife but our team of English speaking agents are on hand to guide you through the process, every step of the way. All you need to do is simply imagine yourself living inside the property. Does it feel like home? Is it close to the correct local amenities? Is this a long term investment? Does the home include all the fixtures you require or will you have to carry out renovations? These are important questions to address before you make an offer but are easy to resolve on a guided property viewing.
Los Gigantes Luxury Apartment at a Glance
- Walk Score of 74 – Easily Accessible on Foot
- 2 Double Bedrooms
- Floor to Ceiling Built-in Wardrobes
- 2 Spacious, Modern Bathrooms
- Fully Furnished, Contemporary Kitchen
- Open Plan Living Space
- Built-in Storage Solutions
- Private Sun Terrace with Ocean Views
- Outdoor Dining Space
- Lockable Private Garage
- Direct Access to Public Transport
- Quiet and Peaceful Location on a Cul-de-Sac
- 40 mins from Tenerife South Airport
Book a viewing today to get a first-hand view of this premium island real estate. Contact Nicky or Kerrie on +34 922 86 13 13 or via email.
End of Transition Period Q&A for UK Nationals living in Spain
Information correct as at 29 December 2020.
What happens if I am not registered as resident by 31 December?
If you are unable to complete the registration process before 1 January, you will still be protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, as long as you were legally living in Spain before the end of 2020.
That means that you were living here and meeting the EU free movement conditions of working, being self-employed, or having sufficient income and comprehensive healthcare cover to support you during your retirement or studies. For information on the citizens’ rights elements of the Agreement visit: https://www.gov.uk/…/withdrawal-agreement-explainer-for….
Your rights come from your living legally in Spain before 31 December, not from possessing the residency card itself. We recommend you have as much documentation in place to demonstrate that you were legally living here before the end of the Transition Period as possible. That might include, but not be limited to, a padrón certificate, utility bill, healthcare policy, work contract or flight ticket.
If you are having difficulties with your residency application, there are three organisations, who have received funding to support UK Nationals with this, so please do contact them for help. You can find their details here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-spain#visas-and-residency
What should I do if I can’t get an appointment?
COVID restrictions have meant that there are fewer appointments available in some areas, but you should keep trying. You should also remember that you can complete the first stage of the residency process by submitting your documents electronically if you have a digital certificate.
You can find out how to get your digital certificate here: https://www.sede.fnmt.gob.es/en/certificados/persona-fisica. If you do not have a digital certificate you can also use a third-party representative to submit your documents for you.
Meanwhile, you should make sure you have as much documentation in place to demonstrate that you were legally living here before the end of the Transition Period as possible. That might include, but not be limited to, a padrón certificate, utility bill, healthcare policy, work contract or flight ticket.
Is my green certificate still valid or does it need to be exchanged for a TIE?
The green residency certificate – both A4 and credit card-sized – remain valid documents to demonstrate your status as a resident and your rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.
The Spanish Government emphasises that the biometric TIE is more durable and may simplify some administrative processes and border crossing. If you decide to exchange your green certificate for the TIE, there is no deadline for doing so. See https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/brexit/howtoprepare/Paginas/190108residence.aspx
Will I still be able to access healthcare in Spain?
People who have settled in the UK or EU before 31 December 2020, will continue to have life-long reciprocal healthcare rights provided they remain covered under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement. That means if you live in Spain or moved there before the end of 2020, your rights to access healthcare in Spain will stay the same for as long as you remain resident. Visit gov.uk/healthcareinspain for more information.
Is my EHIC valid after 31 December?
A new EHIC has been developed for those eligible under the Withdrawal Agreement to protect the existing healthcare rights of people living, working and studying in the EU prior to the end of the transition period.
Residents who have a registered S1 form and students will need to get the new UK-issued EHIC which will be valid from when they receive it and for travel from 1 January 2021. They can apply on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-ehic-european-health-insurance-card/
The Withdrawal Agreement also protects UK and EU nationals who find themselves in a ‘cross-border situation’ over 31 December 2020 (for example, someone whose holiday begins before but ended after the 31 December 2020). These people will be able to continue to access ‘needs-arising treatment’until they leave that country by travelling to another EU MS or returning to the UK. If treatment is needed people will need to contact NHS BSA (https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/contact-us) for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) which shows that they are entitled to treatment in the EU. They may need to provide evidence that they travelled to the Member State before 31 December 2020 and did not leave the country before they required treatment.
The Government always advises that anyone travelling overseas, whether to the EU or elsewhere in the world, should take out comprehensive travel insurance. This remains our advice.
UK residents visiting Spain should visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/healthcare-for-uk-nationals-visiting-spain for the latest information.
Can I still exchange my driving licence from 1 January?
All valid UK driving licences will be recognised for driving in Spain until 30 June 2021. We have consistently advised UK nationals to exchange their UK licence for a Spanish one. As long as you registered the details of your licence with the Spanish traffic office and the licence was verified by 30 December 2020, you have until 30 June 2021 to complete the exchange.
If you were not able to start the process before 30 December you should sign up to email alerts on gov.uk/livinginspain to be informed of the latest developments on the future exchange of driving licences. In the meantime, you can use your valid UK licence until 30 June 2021.
If you have exchanged your UK licence for a Spanish one you will not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in the UK. If you move to live in the UK, you can exchange your UK licence without having to take a test.
Can I continue to claim my pension in Spain?
If you are legally living in the EU, EEA or Switzerland by 31 December 2020 you will get your UK State Pension uprated every year for as long as you continue to live there. This will happen even if you start claiming your pension on or after 1 January 2021, as long as you meet the qualifying conditions explained in the new State Pension guidance.
For more information visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-spain #pensions
I have a second home in Spain. Can I still come and stay there in the same way?
UK business visitors and tourists will still be able to travel to the Schengen area for stays of up to 90 days in every 180-day period. From 1 January you will require permission from Spain for any stay longer than that and this may require applying for a visa or permit. You should contact the Consulate General in the UK for further information. This will limit the time you can spend in your property, but your property rights will not change.
Can I still travel back to the UK with my dog?
There will be no change to the current health preparations or documents for pets entering Great Britain from the EU from 1 January 2021.
From 1 January 2021 onwards, the UK will have Part 2 listed status under the EU Pet Travel Scheme, meaning that people travelling from England, Wales or Scotland with their pets and assistance dogs will need to follow new requirements in order to travel to Spain.
For further information visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-from-1-january-2021, where you will also find contact details for the pet travel hotline.
Will there be changes at the border when I come into Spain? Do I need to do anything differently?
If you live in Spain, you should always travel with both your valid passport and proof of your residence status (TIE or green EU residence certificate). From 1 January, UK Nationals will not be able to use the passport lanes for EU/EEA/EFTA/Swiss citizens and should use the lanes for Third Country Nationals (TCNs).
The COVID situation is evolving and travel restrictions can change quickly, so you should sign up for alerts to https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain, so that you are kept up to date with the latest information.
Can students continue their studies in Spain?
UK nationals who are resident in Spain by the end of the transition period will continue to be treated on an equal basis to Spanish students in terms of eligibility for student support if they wish to go to a Spanish university, even if that is after the end of the transition period. UK nationals who move to Spain to study a full degree from 1 January 2021 must apply for the relevant visa before traveling and may have to pay the fees applicable to non-EU citizens.
Are there any changes to mobile phone roaming?
If you have a UK mobile phone, you should be aware that there may be new roaming charges from 1 January 2021. You should check with your provider for details.
Where can I find more information?
For the latest information on living in Spain, including on residency, driving and pensions visit gov.uk/livinginspain
For the latest information on healthcare visit gov.uk/healthcareinspain
For the latest travel advice for Spain visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain
You can also keep up to date through our Facebook channel www.facebook.com/britsinspain.