Tenerife

Tenerife

I confess that when I was invited to Tenerife, I knew that it was part of the Canary Islands, but I didn’t know that it was the name of one of the islands. I thought it was the city I was going to.

As it turns out, most North Americans are unfamiliar with these islands, although they are a popular destination for both Europeans and pro cyclists.

Therefore, I am not surprised that noone guessed where I was, although a few of you were close.

Brief History

Tenerife’s story begins long before European eyes ever set upon it. The island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches, were a Berber-related people who arrived from North Africa thousands of years ago and developed a rich, isolated culture. They revered the mighty Teide volcano — known to them as “Echeyde” — believing it to be the home of an evil spirit called Guayota, who they thought imprisoned the sun god within its depths. Standing at 3,715 metres, Teide is not only the highest peak in Spain but the third tallest volcanic structure on Earth from its ocean base, and it continues to dominate the island’s landscape with breathtaking, almost otherworldly presence.

When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the late 15th century, they encountered fierce resistance before finally subduing the island in 1496. From that point, Tenerife’s fortunes became tied to the great Age of Exploration. Its principal port, Santa Cruz, grew into a vital stopping point for Spanish fleets sailing to and from the Americas — by the 16th century, it was a bustling hub of trade, provisions and commerce connecting the Old World to the New.  Today, Tenerife blends that deep volcanic and colonial history with vibrant culture, world-class beaches, and the extraordinary lunar landscapes around Teide — making it one of the most captivating islands in the Atlantic.

This small 6th-century church captivated me with its antiquity and reminded me of the great mystery of living and dying and our interconnectedness, in the here and now.

Wonderful moments

Every morning begins with a brisk, mostly steep walk up from the marina. In Los Gigantes, where we are staying, the charming, quiet streets contrast with the dramatic and towering cliffs. (some dropping 600 metres straight into the sea) The cliffside walks are amazing with waves crashing, light constantly changing, and winds blowing. And it seems you can walk forever.

Getting to spend six hours or so outdoors most days in a new environment is significant. It brings to mind Oliver Burkeman’s point of view on seeing “the magic in the ordinary…walking to notice the everyday rather than a productivity project. A brilliant way to restore mental focus.

In fact, not just to look at the beautiful views but to look closer at the volcanic stones that make up walls and sometimes sidewalks or the little ChiffChaff bird on the palm tree in the first photo. (hard to see) Or just the sheer enjoyment of  the vastness of sea and sky and mountains and feeling the wind in your face. It reminds us that we are alive and well and there are more important things than AI, social media and news for us to focus on.

NOTES

1. First of all, thank you for your willingness to play the game I started last week. I heard from many of you both through comments and email. It was so much fun to hear your guesses and chat with you about my mystery location. 
2. Secondly, my deep appreciation for taking the time to accompany me on my meanderings. I am grateful to each of you for your care and consideration. Many of you have been here for almost eight years now. Amazing. A deep and warm bow to each of you. 
3. Many thanks to my cousins who are responsible for this trip. Whatever were you thinking? You realize that I will now want to come back.
4. Finally, I hope you are all doing the best you can in whatever circumstances you find yourselves. If it is a tough time, please ask for the help that you need. Remember that we are all here to help and be helped. The former is easier, and the latter can be learned and is necessary for all of us. 

PS May I suggest that every day we make time for a little music, doodling, sketching – anything that lifts our spirits and brings some joy and sparkle into our daily lives. Take heart and enjoy your precious moments. Bye for now, Trudy