Club Vista Serena

What do you think.....

2009-10-23T20:12:00.004+01:00

...about Club Vista Serena? www.clubvistaserena.com

From time to time, I have a look at the reviews about our resort available to everyone on the Internet, just to see what people really think about us. It's good to get feedback from real people, the bad as well as the good :-)

Here are few that I have found on one of the review sites. What do you think? Do you agree? Did you have a similar experience? How would you rate and review our resort?http://www.clubvistaserena.com/testimonials.html

Ian from Edinburgh: We have stayed in a number of different complexes in and around Maspalomas over the years and Club Vista Serena was the last we stayed at, around three years ago. We enjoyed it then so booked ourselves in for 8 days in January 2009 before moving on for a week in Tenerife in an appalling (and much more expensive) apartment at Cristian Sur at Los Cristianos. When you arrive at Club Vista Serena it doesn't look all that special (and neither do the other little complexes around it) but the difference is immediate. They are most welcoming and the feeling when reaching your accommodation is how clean and well maintained it is. Everything works which is more than I can say for many other similar accommodations in the area. There were many thoughtful touches and all the extras like an iron (with spray starch and water spray), fan, tv with some UK channels, microwave and a decent fridge, were all there with no hidden extra charges. To be honest, the pool area is quite small but then so is the actual complex. We didn't use it this time, preferring our balcony. Neither did we use the bar area much though we personally found it to be friendly when we did. The only problem I encountered was that their brand new wi-fi system didn't seem to work and even if it had, it only seemed to cover the bar area in bright sunlight which made it useless. I used the "coin in the slot" computer while there which proved a lot more expensive but I'm sure that they will put the above problem right. Location may not suit some in that it sits about half way between Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas beach which usually means a taxi to everywhere but they aren't that expensive and we were able to walk into Playa del Ingles quite easily. The problem you might have is that if you are by the beach at Maspalomas it's quite a distance to Playa del Ingles and if you are in Playa del Ingles, it's quite a distance to Maspalomas so for me personally I found the location a good compromise. The point is, would we go back? The answer is "definitely."

Jules, Southampton: We've stayed at Club Vista Serena twice and loved it both times. Apartments are well equipped and spacious and have either a balcony or terrace where you can sit out and enjoy the Canarian sunshine. Whole resort is very clean, pool area never feels overcrowded, all in all a relaxing place to stay. Resort is located near other self catering resorts about 5 minutes drive to Meloneras where there's a great selection of restaurants to choose from. Pool bar also serves wide selection of cheap food which they'll even deliver to your apartment for you to enjoy on your balcony. Staff are very friendly and welcoming and always happy to help.

Sarah, London: This was our 2nd visit and we came back to exactly the same apartment overlooking the pool. We have 2 young children under 4 and the resort offered us the perfect place to relax. Our apartment balcony overlooked the baby pool and made for really easy entertainment - sun loungers for us, splashing about for the kids. Staff are all lovely, the place is beautifully cared for and landscaped, renovations are constantly underway and it feels small, safe and easy. Certainly a cut above the surrounding apartment complexes. The small reception shop is open 24hrs a day and makes life very convenient.

Anonimous Guest, England: Having read the various reports and widely ranging views I did wonder what to expect when we arrived. We found a small, quiet, clean resort. The apartments are small but well equipped. Note that satellite TV consists only of Eurosport and Sky News, no Sky Sports channels. The pool bar seemed popular although we didn't eat there and drinks were reasonably priced. Faro II shopping centre, a short walk away, isn't fantastic for shops or Restaurants although we had a lovely meal at Michel Angelo Restaurant. Give the Mexican Restauant a miss - that was poor. Very good facilities on last day if you have a late flight - check out 11am, luggage roon and courtesy showers/towels. They work very hard at keeping you entertained - probably 3 star+

Let me know about your stay @ www.clubvistaserena.com

The Historic and Cultural Wealth of Gran Canaria

2009-10-20T09:57:00.006+01:00

A large part of the historic and cultural wealth of Gran Canaria is represented in the Island's museums, where a large part of the Island's heritage is preserved, researched and exhibited. The broad range of subject matters that are covered by the museums include everything from the native past of the Island right up to its most recent contemporary history. You can also find houses that are kept in remembrance of the most illustrious sons of the island who have gained renown in various social and cultural disciplines as well as those houses where the popular customs and traditions of the island are preserved. Most of these places are well worth a visit simply by reason of the buildings themselves. These buildings are of artistic and historic importance and exemplify the varied and rich urban and rural architecture that sprung up here in the Canaries.

If you're here with the family, why not try the 'Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología'? It's a great place for the kids to learn about Science and Technology and have fun at the same time. Their motto is - 'FORBIDDEN NOT TO TOUCH'.

There are over twenty display areas devoted to the reconstruction and reproduction of mankind’s greatest scientific advances. The museum is housed in a building that has a surface area of close to seven thousand square metres, most of which is used as exhibition areas. Due to the interactive and didactic nature of most of the exhibits, the museum has become an indispensable resource for all students – as well as members of the public in general – who wish to learn more about the world of science. The museum also has a cinema projection room with a big screen.

It's open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 8pm.

Source: grancanaria.com

Pick up a bargain!

2009-10-14T13:23:00.005+01:00

Check out the Car Boot sale that is held every Sunday at the Faro 2 Shopping Centre in Maspalomas - Gran Canaria, in the carpark from 7 am to 3pm!

It's well worth a visit, and you never know you may pick up a bargain!!

If you're staying with us at Club Vista Serena - http://www.clubvistaserena.com/, you can easily get to the Faro 2 Shopping Centre. It's a 10 minute stroll away, and we can easily direct you on how to get there - all you have to do is ask!

Happy bargain hunting!

2 perspectives - something for everyone

2009-10-07T13:43:00.006+01:00

A child's perspective:

Every year my parents and I spend our holidays on an island called Gran Canaria. We stay in some apartments called Club Vista Serena. It's a really nice place and all of the people are really friendly.

The beach there is like a desert but next to the sea and you can swim all the time. It’s called Maspalomas.
We go to the beach a lot because the weather’s always good and my mum loves to sunbathe. My dad’s not really into sunbathing so he takes me off to loads of places. I love visiting water parks and going on the slides. This year I can use the big slide, which loops around. I’ve also been along the coast with my dad on a boat from the port of Puerto Rico. We saw dolphins from the boat. What I like best about my holidays in Gran Canaria this year was seeing dolphins so close. And mum missed it all just because she wants to be really brown when she goes home. I think that’s just silly, especially when you can do fun stuff like watching dolphins...

Mum's perspective:

I think I’ll go back to Gran Canaria again this year. There are miles of beach just for me, perfect for an evening stroll and then a quick dip in the sea before dinner.

My husband takes the kids all over the place, going out in a boat to watch the dolphins and goodness knows what else... So, they leave me to sunbathe in peace (just amazing after a whole year of running around and stress...).More to the point, when travelling with a gang like mine, I’d rather be safe than sorry. I don’t want to experiment. So I think I’ll go back to Gran Canaria this year...

source:grancanaria.com

Let the fun begin!

2009-10-02T14:45:00.003+01:00

Gran Canaria can offer you a thousand and one alternatives to make your holidays one long party. The Island is young and fun providing a whirl of colours and flavours at any time of day.
Gran Canaria lives outdoors all year round. If you just can’t sit still, make the most of the coast, the ravines and the fantastic climate. You can take part in sports such as climbing, trekking, windsurfing, surfing or scuba diving, among others. If you want, you can enjoy more than a hundred days of holiday in this miniature continent, trying outdoor and adventure sports.

Gran Canaria throws parties all year round including the smallest villages, particularly in the summer. Pilgrimages, shows and local festivals welcome thousands of people offering endless parties and grand traditions.

Extroverts can find passionate, hair-raising activities in Gran Canaria trying adventure sports such as windsurfing, climbing, surfing or scuba diving. Do you also fancy a night out?
The Island’s capital and tourist area in the south offer an attractive nightlife. You can party the night away until the early hours of the morning in busy bars, pubs and discos.

Terraces offer the other main focus on this Island where the privileged climate means you can socialise in the open air, all twelve months of the year. Gran Canaria nightlife combines partying, great weather and lots of fun.

souce: grancanaria.com

WOMAD is back!

2009-10-01T13:32:00.008+01:00

Together with Australia, Spain has become the most popular country outside the UK for WOMAD festivals; and since 1989 the festival has visited Caceres in Extremadura, Granada, Barcelona, Madrid, Pamplona, and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.
A country with an insatiable appetite for fiesta, and with a warm and welcoming climate, Spain is a natural choice for festivals.
The Canary Islands make an idyllic setting for the festival, with blue skies, sandy beaches and stunning natural scenery providing an Atlantic Ocean holiday backdrop for this hugely popular event.

The event is presented entirely free due to the generous support of local government and commercial sponsorship, and is widely attended both by Canarians and many international visitors to the islands.

WOMAD (WORLD OF MUSIC, ARTS, AND DANCE) returns to the Canary Islands this November for another weekend of music, arts and dance from around the globe - all in the beautiful beachside city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The venue, as in previous years, will be the Parque de Santa Catalina - a city square close to the centre of Las Palmas, and just 200 metres from the Playa de las Canteras, one of the island's longest and most spectacular beaches.
This year, WOMAD Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will feature performances by many artists from around the world eager to share their music with you, DJ sessions, workshops for adults and children alike, plus, a Global Market and the Children's Procession, which will take place on Sunday afternoon.

Yippee! All parts of the festival are free and open to the public.

ARTIST LIST:

· Bibi Tanga and The Selenites (Central African Rep./France) · Eliades Ochoa (Cuba) · Imelda May (United Kingdom) · Justin Adams & Juldeh Camara with Justin Adams (United Kingdom) & Juldeh Camara (Gambia)· Melingo (Argentina) · Oumou Sangaré (Mali) · Roy Ayers (United States) · Zenet (Spain) · Vieux Farka Touré (Mali) · Najma Akhtar & Gary Lucas with Najma Akhtar (United Kingdom) & Gary Lucas (United States)·

Chiwoniso (Zimbabwe) · Depedro (Spain) · Forro in the Dark (Brazil/United States) · Laura Vane and The Vipertones (United Kingdom) · Manel (Spain) · Márcio Local (Brazil) · Siyaya (Zimbabwe) · Snowboy (United Kingdom) · Spiro (United Kingdom) · The Black Swan Effect (United Kingdom) ·

Las Palmas is at the north of the island of Gran Canaria, around 20 minutes drive from Las Palmas airport.
The Parque de Santa Catalina is a city square in the centre of Las Palmas. It is approximately 200m from the city's main beach, Playa de Las Canteras.

There is no camping available near the festival site. However, there are many hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars and shops in Las Palmas and other parts of the Island.
Make sure that your accommodation is in the city of Las Palmas itself if you want to be within easy reach of the festival, but if you're looking for a bit of sun and relaxation aswell - come and stay with us at http://www.clubvistaserena.com/

Please Note: Although it is unlikely that the event will be cancelled, or change dates or location, please note that WOMAD will not be responsible for refunding travel or accommodation costs should this occur. Please ensure you have travel insurance to cover you in these circumstances.

Source: womad.org

Gran Canaria - an Island of Culture

2009-09-30T10:04:00.008+01:00

Music
In Gran Canaria you can enjoy concerts, recitals and festivals of all styles of music throughout the year. Music forms an integral part of island life, with music being heard in the various theatres and auditoriums, in the streets and squares and at the traditional festivals of the island.

Classical Music
Spain's first Philharmonic Society is in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and it was founded in 1845. The people of Gran Canaria evidently have an enormous love of classical music, as you can see from the continuous programme of classical music events, which includes the Canary Islands Classical Music Festival, the Alfredo Kraus Opera Festival (named after the Canarian-born tenor), the Philharmonic Orchestra of Gran Canaria season of concerts, the Zarzuela Festival, the Guitar Festival, among others.

Modern Music
Gran Canaria is one of the few places where the World of Music, Arts and Dance (Womad) is held, which is one of the most important world music festivals. Rock, jazz and celtic music festivals, as well as concerts and recitals that include everything from the most traditional to the must current sounds, complete an extensive programme of musical events that take place throughout the entire island.

Dance, Theatre and Cinema
The various theatres on the island have continuous programmes of events, including theatre and dance shows that feature the best companies and professional artists on the scene. This array of cultural events is supplemented by a variety of specialised festivals, such as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Theatre and Dance Festival, Festival in the South -Drama from 3 Continents in Agüimes and the International Comedy Festival in Ingenio. As far as cinema is concerned, special mention must be made of the International Cinema Festival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: The best motion pictures from all over the world are entered in this festival, which is attended by celebrities of the “seventh art”.

Painting and Sculpture
Until the mid-19th century, the artists of Gran Canaria merely followed the various European schools of the time, without making any original contribution. However, from that time on, the island’s native artists put their own distinct stamp on the various universal artistic currents, such as modernism, expressionism, indigenism and abstract art. The artists that enjoy the greatest international recognition are Néstor de la Torre, Manuel Millares and Martín Chirino, names that have become part of the history of art.

Exhibition centres
In the various exhibition centres and museums on the island the visitor will find works of art that were produced on the island as well as works that were produced by exponents of more universal artistic currents. Some exhibition centres are the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno (CAAM) modern art gallery, La Regenta Art Gallery, Christopher Columbus' House, Centro Insular de Cultura, the San Antonio Abad exhibition rooms and CICCA.

Source: grancanaria.com

Anybody fancy a bit of......

2009-09-25T14:16:00.004+01:00

ROPA VIEJA!!!

Gran Canaria is known worldwide for its excellent climate, its magnificent beaches and its astonishing landscapes.

However, in the inland it keeps some treasures yet undiscovered for the visitor and are related to their inhabitants, their culture and their way of life.
Among them, its gastronomy has been ellaborated along several centuries with excellent raw materials (meat, fish, fruits and vegetable) combined in original and tasty recipes.

If you've been to Gran Canaria, and you've tried some of the dishes, why not try and cook some of these dishes at home? The best idea would be to come over here www.clubvistaserena.com and try the authentic stuff...but give it a go!

"Ropa Vieja"

Ingredients: 1/2 Kg. of chickpeas, 1/2 Kg. of beef, 1/2 Kg. of chicken, 1 Kg. of potatoes, 3 garlic cloves, 1 pepper, 1 onion, 1 tomatoe, 1 small cup of white wine, 1 small cup of water or broth, paprika, black pepper, thyme, cloves, bay leaf, salt and oil.

Method:
1. Leave the chickpeas to soak overnight to tenderize them.

2. Wash them on the next day and place them in a pot along with the meat, salt to taste and water.

3. Once cooked, drain everything off and shred the meat. Next fry the meat and the chickpeas until they get crispy and set them aside.

4. Separately, make a frying base by first chopping up the onion, the pepper, the peeled tomato and the garlic cloves. Fry it all with the oil and add the black pepper and the cloves.

5. Once this base is ready, introduce the paprika, the wine, the thyme, the bay leaf and a small cup of water or broth.

6. Next, add the meat and the chickpeas and then leave it some minutes on the heat.

7. Finally, fry the diced potatoes and mix all the ingredients. You can also add to this dish certain vegetables like carrots or green beans.

souce: gran canaria.com

The jewel in the crown...

2009-09-24T12:02:00.008+01:00

...the 'Playa de las Canteras', the pearl the city does not hide. A long sand tongue that stretches for miles along the bay. A place of special charm, in the middle of the Island's Capital city Las Palmas.

Locals say that Las Canteras is one of the Nation’s best urban beaches, and they have every reason to believe it. This is a beach blessed with fine weather practically all year round. A type of beach-style Central Park, where sports can be practised any day of the week. Don’t forget your swimming attire and your surf board!

Furthermore, the island is a large marine life reserve. Its sea bottom is home to a thousand fish species. On firm ground, it shelters tourists, fisherpeople, and surfers, and it has a peculiar attribute, what locals know as “La Barra” - a long rock formation spreading not far from the sand. A singular line of volcanic rock that protects a large chunk of the beach from the tides, and which turns our bay in the best place this side of the globe where to swim and walk practically on the water in days of low tide.

When a stroll is the undisputed choice, we recommend the long walk along the sand, passing through coffee shops and ice-cream parlours. The first thing you will encounter are the Puntilla sidewalk cafés and the fresh-fish restaurants. At the other end of the beach, the surfing environment around the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, with more sidewalk cafés and bars by the sea.

Las Canteras is known by all as the Changing Beach. It will never be the place you saw a day before. This is one of its special traits.

So now you know, the treasure of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria lies hidden only 5 minutes from the Bus Station Santa Catalina.

If you're staying at Club Vista Serena http://www.clubvistaserena.com/, make sure you ask one of us about Las Canteras, and we can point you in the right direction.

Source: grancanaria.com

FORE!

2009-09-23T13:45:00.005+01:00

Gran Canaria brings you golf tourism in the perfect setting. The island has a clear advantage over other golf destinations: the great climate makes it possible to play 365 days a year.

Gran Canaria has a deep rooted golfing tradition. The island was a pioneer in Spain in this sport. The first golf course in the country was inaugurated in Gran Canaria in 1891. This course, used initially by British tourists and residents, was in the middle of the capital city, in the area which is now the central zone of Escaleritas. In 1957, the golf course moved to Bandama, a few minutes drive from the city, where it still bears the name of Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas.

The first members of the oldest club in Spain belonged to the significant English colony in Gran Canaria during this period, when European tourists first started visiting the Island.

However, not only tradition lies behind golf in Gran Canaria. Over the last few years, a complete infrastructure has been developed around this sport. The island offers a wide variety of courses, adapted to the tastes of the most demanding golfers.

Golfers can find nine courses on the island all within a 50 kilometre radius. Within a short distance, you can combine several courses in different settings. All of them have been developed by the most prestigious international designers and offer exceptional features for the game. This is why Gran Canaria has become the home of prestigious national and international tournaments over the last few years. It has also consolidated its reputation as an important golf destination among European players.

Gran Canaria’s exceptional geographical diversity, its splendid beaches, singular historical, cultural and gastronomic wealth and the wide hotel offer has made our island a favourite spot for holidaymakers looking for something a bit different, not too far from home, with all the advantages of an island which is part of the European Union and the daily incentive of feeding your senses with a whole new world of sensations.

Playing golf in Gran Canaria is more than just playing a sport – it’s an oasis of peace where you can calmly enjoy your game and the good climate.

Golf Courses in Gran Canaria:

Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas

El Cortijo Club de Campo

Oasis Golf

Maspalomas Golf

Salobre Golf and Resort

Anfi Tauro Golf and Anfi Tauro Golf Pitch and Putt

Meloneras Golf

Las Palmeras Golf

Source: grancanaria.com

Discover the natural treasures of Gran Canaria....

2009-09-22T13:41:00.019+01:00

....Trekking!

Gran Canaria is commonly known as the “miniature continent” on account of the natural environment that the island offers to its visitors. The mild weather conditions that reign throughout the year is an invitation to practise a large variety of sports right in the heart of nature.

Gran Canaria is a real paradise for nature lovers, especially for trekkers. This is undoubtedly the ideal way of discovering the natural and historic treasures hidden within the island’s 32 protected natural areas, trekking the extensive network of trails.

The island is almost circular in shape, with the highest point sited right in the middle of the island. This has led to its characteristic cone-shaped relief, criss-crossed by deep gorges fanning out from the centre, and large depressions caused by volcanic activity or erosion. Its legendary climate really is extremely mild and, depending on where you are and the altitude, you could experience any one of the different micro-climates that divide the island.

The island terrain is criss-crossed by an intricate network of foot paths ranging from easy forest paths and bridle paths to tracks and trails that are strictly for expert hikers.

The size of the island and its rugged relief, have created short, but very steep routes. Depending on their layout, these trails can go from “coast to highlands” with very gentle slopes and almost in a straight line when they run along a gorge, or concentric or transversal, which tend to be more circuitous and steeper, as they cross these features of the land.

For sports enthusiasts, there are inexhaustible opportunities to combine the practice of their favourite sport with the enjoyment of the verdant landscapes of the interior or the spectacular areas along the coast. (source: grancanaria.com)

Club Vista Serena....come and stay with us, it's the right place to be! www.clubvistaserena.com

Relax and take care of yourself....

2009-09-17T13:31:00.005+01:00

Health tourism is one of the oldest forms of tourism known in the world. The first tourists who came to Gran Canaria were Health Tourists. They had been attracted to the islands by the stories of miracle cures that were circulating throughout Europe, and even by the advice of the doctors themselves, who recommended the climate and mineral waters of Gran Canaria.

Today, a century and some decades later, Gran Canaria maintains its prestige as a health resort and a place to rest, having developed a wide range of services and facilities for consultations and the treatment of different disorders or just to pamper your body and relax as an alternative to conventional tourism.

On the island, you can find spas whose waters are rich in minerals and blended with sea water that are ideal for rehabilitation treatments. In these spas you can find all kind of techniques and services ranging from algae wrap, sea mud, hydrotherapy, salt bath, bandages with aromatherapy, mud bath to thalassotherapy, thermotherapy, pressotherapy or lymphatic drainage, reflexotherapy, chyromassage, specific massages, vichy shower, turkish bath, jacuzzi, sauna, swimming pool with jets, among many others

But Gran Canaria is a destination for health tourism for more reasons than just its specialised centres. The entire island is a paradise where you can forget about stress, exhaustion, the need to break away and all the ailments that are provoked by the daily hustle and bustle. All you need is a therapeutic walk on the golden sands of the island's expansive beaches, or a swim in its warm and crystal-clear waters, or to be oxygenated by some contact with nature, where you cannot help but relax.

Club Vista Serena is all about that too, carefree and relaxing holidays in the sun! http://www.clubvistaserena.com/

Source: www.grancanaria.com

Music Festival In Gran Canaria!

2009-09-16T13:54:00.006+01:00

It's here again...the Heineken Campus Rock Festival. On the 26th September 2009, the following acts will be performing in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:

El Canto del Loco
Nena Daconte
Taxi
Sidonie

Campus Rock started way back in 1993 under the name UNIVERSIDAD ROCK '93 (University Rock). It was originally for students, teachers, and the university community. Almost 16 years later, Heineken Campus Rock is now a classic for the lovers of Spanish Pop-Rock.

If you're on the Island around the 26th, why not give it a go?

Join us on Facebook!

2009-09-15T14:47:00.004+01:00

Club Vista Serena now has a profile page on Facebook, so come and join us!

You can find me under the following name: Rachel Vistaserena

I have this photo set as my picture, so it's easy to find me:

Whether you want to make a reservation, have a question, or just want to chat....send me a request to attach you as a friend, and we'll keep in contact.

Gran Canaria is more than sun, sea, and sand

2009-08-18T14:04:00.009+01:00

I've just uploaded a load of pictures onto Vista Serena's Facebook Profile page of a day trip that I had to Roque Nublo, and I thought it would be nice to make a mention of it in our blog too.

Many tourists come to Gran Canaria in search of a bit of sun and fun. What many don't do is investigate what other things Gran Canaria has to offer.

This was my first visit to Roque Nublo, and it won't be the last. When you're walking 1500 metres above sea level, you can easily forget that you're in Gran Canaria. When you think of Gran Canaria, you think of the sea and sand, but Gran Canaria actually offers a variety of landscapes. All you've got to do is go out and find them! You'll find dramatic canyons, rugged rock formations, numerous lakes, vineyards, pine and laurel trees, volcano craters and small streams and waterfalls running all year round. Enough to take anyone's breath away!

One of the most emblematic symbols of Gran Canaria, and situated at its very geographical centre, is ROQUE NUBLO.

Be prepared to walk though, and climb a bit too. It's not a difficult walk. If I did it, then anyone can do it, but it is quite a way. You can park the car next to the road and start walking. It takes about an hour and a half to get to the rock, but you can't get lost. As it's a landmark here on the island, there's always someone there visiting, so just follow the crowd. Believe me, it's well worth a visit...just for the views! Take a look at the photos below. And when your visit is over, and you've made your way back to the car, buy something to eat and drink at the stall that is always there. They've usually got lots of typical Canarian food there for you to try, as well as the much needed Coca Cola :-)

Have your say!

2009-08-14T19:56:00.004+01:00

I've just found this review about Club Vista Serena on one of the many review sites on the Internet. I think it includes just about everything....have your say....what do you think?

"Swapped a week’s timeshare to stay at the Vista Serena in Maspalomas. Location may not suit many as it is a long way from Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas beach which unless you have a car would mean a taxi everywhere; however this was not a problem for us as we had taken our car across on the ferry. In fact we were in a really nice quiet part of town but as others have said those looking for a noisy, lively holiday location should look elsewhere. Upon arrival we were met in reception and given refreshments while they checked to see if our apartment was ready. It was and we were in 2B which was on the ground floor close to the bar area and the swimming pool. The complex is small and very tastefully decorated with all of the apartments painted in lovely pastel colours of blue, green and peach. The layout gives you privacy if you want it; however during the time we were there not all of the apartments were in use.The apartments were well equipped with irons, hairdryers, mircrowaves and should you want them free DVDs. There are also some UK TV channels, a book swap and free WIFI also you can have use of the hotel PC at a small extra cost. There is a tiny supermarket on site which stocked a small amount of most things to get you started.The pool area is quite small but there were plenty of sun beds to go around and nobody felt they had to book these with their towels, which can be a problem in some complexes. There is not much for children apart from the pool and a table tennis area. Although a short walk away is Holiday World which is a complex with fairground type rides, video and games machines and a couple of restaurants. We used the bar for a few drinks as we went out most of the time but the staff were friendly and the menu looked good. Food is served under a large canopy next to the bar with specials served each night. The bar closed early and most nights was not open beyond 11pm. As we went out every night we were given a key to let ourselves in the side entrance. Reception closes at 3.00am so we didn´t have a need for the key as we were back most nights by 1.30am. (Aguilas, Tenerife)

Travel quotes - some funny, others meaningful

2009-08-11T12:52:00.004+01:00

What does travel mean to you? Here's a few quotes that I've found that either made me smile, or made sense to me...

The average tourist wants to go to places where there are no tourists (Sam Ewing)

Anywhere is within walking distance, if you've got the time (Steven Wright)

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all of your money. Then, take half of the clothes and twice the money (Susan Heller)

However far your travels take you, you will never find the girl who smiles out at you from the travel brochure (unknown source) http://www.clubvistaserena.com/about-club-vista-serena.html

One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things (Henry Miller)

But why, oh why, do the wrong people travel, when the right people stay at home? (Noel Coward)

If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home (James Michener)

and last, but not least...I'm sure that many of us can relate to this one...

If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel (Will Kommen)

Happy Holidaying!

Travel Tips for your holidays in Gran Canaria

2009-08-07T09:44:00.016+01:00

After working here at Vista Serena for 6 years now, I see things, sometimes on a daily basis, that our guests do, or forget to do when they come here on holiday, that if they hadn't done them or if they had remembered to do them, would have made their holidays a lot more care free.

Here's what I suggest....

First of all, if you have any special requests about the type of apartment you would like to stay in, the time to make those requests is when you make the booking. For example, many of our guests arrive, and they find out which apartment they have been allocated, and they're not entirely happy. If you have a preference, let us know about it. If you don't let us know, then we can't help you, and we will accommodate you in an apartment that we have available. My Dad for example, has stayed at Vista Serena a few times now, and when he makes a booking, he always requests an upstairs apartment looking onto the pool. 9 times out of 10, we can fulfil his wishes. We do the same for all of our guests. If you have small children, and you want to be able to keep an eye on them from the pool, you can request a downstairs apartment near the swimming pool. If you are in a wheelchair, and you need a downstairs apartment, let us know. One of our apartments has even been adapted to make it a little easier for a wheelchair user. If you want a South facing apartment, so you can get a little bit of sun in the afternoon on your balcony or patio, then tell us. That's what we're here for! On the enquiry form that you can fill in on the website, there's a space for 'Special Requests' - all you have to do is use it :-) http://www.clubvistaserena.com/booking.aspx

Second thing...clothes. Gran Canaria enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. Don't pack too many warm clothes. You won't need any during the Summer months, you're better off packing more t-shirts and shorts. As it's a little hotter in the Summer, during the day, you might have to change your clothes a couple of times. I know I do, because I get a little sweaty ;-) In the Winter months, you probably won't need a jumper during the day, but more than likely, you'll need to wear a jacket or something if you go out at night. It can get chilly, but never as chilly as my home town of Sheffield. We don't need central heating and carpets over here you know!

Next, bring your driving license if you have one. You might not even be planning to hire a car, but if you bring it with you, at least you'll have the possibility once you are here. The island of Gran Canaria is relatively small, you can drive round the whole island in about 4 hours, but there's loads of beautiful places to see, and most of the time, if you don't want to pay loads of money out on organised excursions, you'll need a car to see it. By staying at Vista Serena, it's the perfect opportunity to get out and about and see a little of the island that you're visiting. You're not fastened down to any timetables here, so you can do what you want when you want. If you want the names of a few hire car companies, just get in touch with us, and we'll be able to help. www.clubvistaserena.com/contact.html

If you're staying here at Vista Serena, remember, you don't need to pack any books to read. That'll save a bit of weight on your luggage! We have a book corner at the complex, just under the Reception area, and you can borrow as many books as you want. All we ask is that you put them back after you've read them.

Next tip? Bring you're toiletries from home. I know they take up a bit of space and weight, but things like shampoo, conditioner, body lotions, sun cream, deodrants, etc... are all cheaper back at home. Well, back in England anyway. Whenever I get someone coming across from the UK, I always ask them to bring me a shampoo and a conditioner over because they're so expensive over here compared to the UK. Once we get a Wilkinsons over here, it'll be another story :-), but I doubt that it will ever happen. Once you're holiday is over, you can leave the left overs here, that means you'll have room to take another bottle of Vodka home with you :-)

Here at Vista Serena, you won't need to bring a travel kettle or a travel iron, or anything like that. All of the apartments are well kitted out, and if there's anything you think you need extra, we've got a list of items available that we can take to your room. All you have to do is ask.

And my last tip for the day...our check out time on your departure day is 11am. If you have a late flight, or you've got kids who'll need a 'siesta' during the day, you may want to stay on in your room. If there's no-one checking into your apartment, we might be able to help you for a small fee of 30 Euros, you could prolong your stay in the apartment. However! Don't leave it until the last day to enquire about it. Tell the Receptionist as soon as you get here, that means that we will have a week or 2 to sort something out. If it's not possible, we have a luggage room where you can leave your suitcases, and there's also a courtesy shower so that you can spend the day round the pool and clean yourselves up later before you go to the airport.

Hope this helps. Happy Holidays!

I hate 'All Inclusive' holidays!

2009-08-05T10:00:00.006+01:00

I don't know whether it's because I work on a self catering resort http://www.clubvistaserena.com/index.html, or because I'm too fussy, or if it's because I work in tourism, but I have to admit, I DON'T LIKE ALL INCLUSIVE RESORTS! I realise that in this day and age, they are probably the most economical option for a family holiday, and I'm not saying that I'll never do an ALL-IN, but it doesn't mean I have to like them.

My Mum, her partner and his daughter came out to Gran Canaria last month for 2 weeks. They stayed in an All-Inclusive resort near Amadores. Me and my partner paid to stay for a night at the same hotel, and I can tell you one night is enough.

I'm not saying that the staff were horrible (they all seemed to work really hard actually), or that the installations were bad (the pool was great, there was a small gym, a childrens club, etc) but it's just the whole set up that I don't like.

First of all...

My mum and her partner spent 2 weeks getting up at a ridiculous hour (on their HOLIDAYS!), just to make sure they got a sun-bed by the pool.
There's a huuuuuuge variety of food, but it's not the greatest.
You have to serve yourself. I know it doesn't sound too bad, but I don't know, when I think of being on holiday, I want someone to look after me.
As you've already paid the money, you don't want to miss out on anything. You can have all the self control in the world, but when things are put there on a platter for you, you think, why not! I've paid for it. The best part is, you're not even thirsty or hungry!
You don't see anything of the place where you're staying. As you've got everything included - why go outside of the complex and spend more money? You spend 2 weeks doing the same thing day in day out - eating, drinking, sunbathing and sleeping.
You go from one routine, right into another. Many of us complain about being at home and working. We get up in the morning, we go to work, we finish work, we go home, we go to bed, and we get up in the morning, and it starts all over again. Well, in all-inclusives, it's the same. You get up in the morning to put a towel on a sun bed. You have breakfast. You sunbathe, you have lunch. You sunbathe some more, time for tea and cakes. More sunbathing, time to get ready for dinner. You have dinner, then you go for a drink. You watch the entertainment provided by the hotel team, you drink some more, and then you go to bed. The next day, it starts all over again!
You have to stick to timetables - I know there's food and drink available all day, but there's a timetable for breakfast, one for lunch, and one for dinner.

I know all this sounds pretty negative, and I'm sure all-inclusives work for plenty of people, but I'm not one of them. I want to be able to do what I want to do when I want to, and I want to see things! If I go on holiday, I want to learn something about the place where I go. I want to eat where the locals eat, drink where the locals drink, appreciate the place where they live. http://www.clubvistaserena.com/self-catering-hotel-service.html

But then again, that's just me...perhaps others would disagree???

Could it have been any hotter in Maspalomas???

2009-08-04T10:30:00.003+01:00

The weather in Gran Canaria over the past few days would have been a sun worshipers dream come true!

The Canary Islands enjoy a worldwide fame as having one of the best climates in the whole world. Gran Canaria’s weather is mild, with pleasant temperatures, rarely too high and almost always constant. The average temperatures oscillate in the summer months between 26 ºC and 28 ºC (79 – 82 °F), often exceeding 30 °C (86 °F), and in the winter months between 22 ºC and 24 ºC.

But this weekend was something out of the ordinary!

I was working in the Reception on Saturday 1st August, and I can honestly say, if it wasn't for the air-conditioning that we have on the resort, we would all have melted :-) I have to give a mention here to the cleaning ladies that were working this day - Dunia and Nico. They did a tremendous job to work in that heat and they both deserve a medal. The temperature was well into the 40's and the warm breeze made it feel like 50 degrees!

There were a couple of guests staying on the resort from the exchange company RCI, who were due to leave on the Saturday to go to another resort. But, because they were going to a resort without air conditioning, they wanted to stay at Club Vista Serena for another week. Thankfully, I managed to organise something for them with RCI, and they left happy, but I must admit, putting air conditioning in all of the apartments was one of our better ideas :-)

In order to control the usage of the units, we do make a small charge of 3 Euros per day or 19 Euros for the week, but at times like this, it's worth it!

If you're coming over to Gran Canaria in the Summer months, then I recommend that you find a place with air-conditioning, so you can sleep easy at night zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

My Day Job at Club Vista Serena and Why I Love It!

2009-07-04T18:10:00.004+01:00

I've been working here at Club Vista Serena in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria for 6 years and do you know why I'm still here?

It may surprise some of you, but no, it's not because of the weather. I must admit, coming from Sheffield in England, the weather does make a difference, but it's not everything.

It's the people! The guests who stay on the resort who then become friends, but most of all, the people I work with.

If you've ever stayed at Vista Serena, you'll know what I'm talking about. It's just a great team, and it's a team who cares. From Carmen, Tony and Jose in the Reception, to Dunia and Nico in the cleaning team, to Luis who takes care of the resort maintenance, even us 3 girls in the office :-) (Rachel, Ruth and Anja). Everybody wants you to have a great holiday, and we try and do what we can to make that happen.

I don't know whether you've seen the reviews that past guests have written about Club Vista Serena that are floating about on the Internet? Or, if you've been to stay at the resort, whether you've see the Guest Book on Reception. If you have, you'll see what I mean: http://www.clubvistaserena.com/testimonials.html

"Friendliness of staff makes the holiday. Hope to see you again soon" Gus Millar and Isabel Rankin

"We would like to say a special thank you to all the receptionist ladies who were most helpful at all times" Maureen and Graham Stanley

"Thanks to all the staff once again, especially best wishes to Anja, Carmen, Rachel, Ruth, not forgetting Tony and the rest of the staff who make our stay here fantastic" Pat and Gary Green

"The warmest welcome we have experienced anywhere!" Sam, Eric, Edward, Grace and Anna Redfern

"The most friendly resort around! Linda and Bob Mullen

"We would just like to thank you all for making our stay at Vista Serena such a happy one, once again. We had a really lovely time, and it was so good to see you all again. You all do everything you can to make guests welcome" Gill and Ray Batchelor

And it really is like this, and not because we're paid to do it, it really is genuine. I think that's why our guests feel 'at home' when they stay with us, and that's why I feel good at work. My friends who I work with make all the difference! http://www.clubvistaserena.com/about-club-vista-serena.html

The credit crunch - how to get the most out of Gran Canaria without spending a fortune!

2009-07-02T14:38:00.007+01:00

For many of us, we've been forced to watch where we put our money and what we spend it on, but for a lot of us also, we're not prepared to give up our 2 weeks in the sun! We work hard all year round, so we deserve a little bit of pampering!

If you're on a budget, you can still have an enjoyable holiday! You might be surprised by what's on offer!

First things first, if you can avoid travelling during the school holidays, you'll save time, money and hassle. That's something many of us know already, so I'll not dwell on this.

At Club Vista Serena we offer home from home accommodation at really affordable prices - a weeks stay for 2 people in a beautiful apartment can cost as little as 266 Euros, that's 19 Euros per night per person!

If you're the type of traveller that looks for something different than a package deal, or an all-inclusive holiday, you've come to the right place! We can offer self catering, bed and breakfast, or half board - all you have to do is ask http://www.clubvistaserena.com/self-catering-hotel-service.html

The first thing to do if you're flexible on dates, is find a cheap flight. We always do our best here to accommodate our guests, so if you can get the cheap flight deal first, I'm sure we'll have the availability here on the resort to accommodate the dates of your flight. If you find a cheap flight, don't lose it!

To get the cheapest rental rate with us, pay for your accommodation upfront when you make the booking, you can get up to a 10% discount!

Many people then worry about how they can get to our complex from the airport and how much a taxi would cost. We work with a taxi transfer company, so we can offer you a set price of 36 Euros for upto 4 passengers - that works out at just 9 Euros each!

Now, for many people, the big cost of their holidays is their spending money. There's nothing to worry about here either, all you have to do is be wise and careful!

Work out a daily budget, and stick to it. There's nothing worse than getting towards the end of your holidays and not being able to totally enjoy it because you're worried about running out of money.

If you're from the UK, as I am, you'll have noticed that the currency conversion rate isn't that fantastic anymore, but there are ways of getting round it.

When the exchange rate was better, we didn't think twice about the price of things, but now that's changed, we have to be more aware.

Where does most of our money go when we are on holiday? Easy, food and drink.

So, you have several options...http://www.clubvistaserena.com/facilities.html#services

You could come and visit us on a half board basis. If you were planning to eat out every day anyway, eating with us at the Celebration Bar and Restaurant, could make things cheaper for you. For 17.50 Euros per person per day, you can enjoy breakfast and dinner, without worrying about where you have to go, or how much it is going to cost.

If you're not bothered about dinner, then just have breakfast - only 7 Euros per day per person.

If you prefer the self catering option, then be wise about where you buy things from. If you think you'll be making things in the apartment, then do a shop at a big supermarket. That's where all the locals buy their food from, so it's got to be cheaper! If you want to eat out while you are there, then look for less touristic areas. Our receptionists can help you out here as they are the ones that live here, and I can assure you, they (we) won't pay above the odds to eat out.

I know that watching what you spend isn't the greatest thing to do while you are away, but it's only a case of being more aware. If you're not prepared to pay for something in your home country when it seems to expensive to you, why should you do it while you are on holiday?

Once you become more aware, it will be like second nature to you, and then all that is left is to sit back, relax, soak up the sun, and ENJOY!

Self Catering versus All Inclusive

2008-06-06T11:25:00.011+01:00

It’s decision time again. You’ve chosen the destination and the dates, all that’s left it the accommodation. What do you go for? Self Catering are All-Inclusive?
Since I work on a self catering resort of apartments, and I’ve only ever been to an All-Inclusive hotel once in my life (it was a 2 night stay, and I didn’t particularly enjoy it very much), I think my view is a little biased so instead of using this as a marketing technique to try and convince you that the Club Vista Serena self catering apartments are the best, I’m going to try and be as neutral as I can and let you decide. However, if after reading this, you get the sudden urge to make a booking with us, just click on one of the links to the booking or enquiry page on our website http://www.clubvistaserena.com/, and get in touch LOL :-)

Self Catering PROS

Most flexible type of holiday, you can eat and sleep when you want and are not forced into leaving your accommodation at set times of the day.
A greater degree of freedom and control over your location, holiday type, accommodation and budget.
Self-catering generally gives you more space and privacy
Preparing your own food means that you can fit in with your family's likes and dislikes.
During a week’s holiday, dining in, rather than going to restaurants for every meal translates into a huge savings on food alone.
In addition to a fully equipped kitchen with microwave, refrigerator-freezer, dishwasher etc, the holiday property may have a washing machine and dryer.
A personal touch – in small, self catering resorts, you’re a person, rather than a room number

Self Catering CONS

Preparing your own food also means that you are unlikely to get a break from the cooking and washing-up
If you decide to eat out each evening, this may make things a little more expensive
If you are in a very rural location, you may find lack of facilities nearby hard to deal with

All Inclusive PROS

You don’t have to worry about the price of food and drink
If you have kids, an all-inclusive holiday may be the most economical solution
You don’t have the hassle of trying to find somewhere to eat each night
Once the holiday is paid for, that’s it, you need very little spending money

All Inclusive CONS

It can get a bit claustrophobic as you tend to stay on-site during all of your stay to “get your moneys worth”.
Restricted meal times. Even if you feel like a lay in, you can’t because you’ve got to get up for breakfast – you’ve paid for it after all!
You tend to stay in the holiday complex and not explore the area. Most of these complexes are owned by large companies, so little money goes out to the local economy.
If you go all-inclusive, you’ll miss out on Club Vista Serena :-)

The decision is yours!……….Click on the title of the blog to leave us a comment at the bottom of the page!

Canarian Festivity

2008-06-03T08:30:00.010+01:00

Buenos días a todos,
Last Friday 30th May, was bank holiday here in Gran Canarian. Why? Becuase it was the "Canarian Day" It is bank holiday in all of the seven Canarian islands. Each of them used to dress different, each of them has its own identity, but still they're just "one".

In this day there are a lot of things going on. We have "romerías" everywhere.

These are like parades where people dressed up in an old style, like Canarians used to do many many years ago.

The people who work in the agriculture bring their best things to offer to the Virgin.

Then there events going on.

Folk things are being represented everywhere. Different dance styles, live folk music, and old games from children.

It is a nice day, but.... to tell you the truth, this day it is just an excuse for people to get drunk and party all day and night long.

Here is Vista Serena, the staff also decided to live their own "Canarian Day" and they dressed up to work. Have a look to this picture.... don't they look cute? :-) hihihi

Why don't you book for next year and join us for the Canarian 30th of May 2009? We always have special offers for this time. Experience all the magic of going back in time and find more of our culture!

Have a good week. Hasta la vista.

Ruth

30 de Mayo, Día de Canarias

2008-05-28T15:58:00.002+01:00

Hola a tod@s,

Estoy de vuelta. Ya lo sé , hace muchisimo tiempo que no me he puesto en el blog. Pues yo estaba 3 semanas de baja (por dolores faciales y que sigo teniendo hasta que me arreglan toda mi boca).

El viernes libraré (un fin de semana larga). El 30 de mayo es el Día de Canarias, y también el día de San Fernando (el pueblo donde nació mi marido). Así que el viernes estaré en la fiesta vestida de canaria. Allí se celebrará el gran asadero popular de pescado, con gofio y papas arrugadas, amenizado por parrandas y la Banda de Agaete. Iré con mis amig@s, a nosotros no nos gusta hacer cola durante 2 horas para obtener un platito de pescado o una cerveza, así que nosotros llevamos nuestra propia comida (ensaladilla rusa, tortilla de papas, papas arrugadas y toda la bebida) y haremos nuestra barbacoa. El sábado pasado fue la Romería, eso si que era bonita, todas las carrozas con comida para entregar a la iglesia y la gente vestido típico de canarias. Entre cada carroza había un grupo de músicos. En la nuestra iba 200 personas, cantando, riéndose, bebiendo y comiendo. Después de la ofrenda seguimos la fiesta hasta las 3 de la mañana .....

Anja