Monday, 27th December 2010, Las Palmas Gran Canaria

We've had a full day here - arrival at 8am and departing 11pm, so lots of time in which to explore.

The sun was shining and temperatures had reached 18*C by the time the Captain made his daily announcement at 9am, so we decided to walk to the beautiful (for this part of the world) long beach not far from the port.  We've walked there previously, it's a great place for people-watching. (Remember the Speedos?)  This time we walked the entire length of the bay, aiming to reach what we thought was a large church.  At the farthest end of the beach the waves roll in, and there are several surf schools.  We stood and watched one class for ages before continuing our stroll and reaching the 'church' which was in fact a modern concert hall.  Very interesting - took lots of photos.  We must have walked about 5 miles during the morning and the temperature displayed along the sea-front rose to 27*.  Is it still freezing at home we wondered?

Back to the ship for lunch and liquid refreshment, then out again to take the red Hop On Hop Off bus for the tour round Las Palmas.  It's a much larger place than we imagined and the old town loks really picturesque - we'll explore that next time we're here.  In fact, Lord C. wondered, out loud, if we shouldn;t try to get a week's holiday here in February!

Dave left me at the quayside when we finished the bus tour, so that I could have a quick wander round the shopping mall close by.  On the way back I spotted someone I thought I recognised - spoke to her, and yes, it was Susan who we'd met last year onboard Balmoral.  (Greetings to Di and Jim, if you're reading this.)

After dinner Dave and I went off the ship again for a drink in a bar not far from the port.  We sat outside watching mainly local men playing cards and chess, and watching Arsenal v Chelsea on tv! 

So back to the ship and an early night for once - well, after a hot chocolate of course!

xx
Janet