Alcoy - The city of bridges

Details

Created: Friday, 20 January 2012 17:24

Demographically, Alcoy has suffered in recent years.  This is undoubtedly due to the increase in tourism which has grown exclusively along the coastline.

The coastal area with its mild climate has converted the province of Alicante into one of the most important resorts in Spain and perhaps in Europe.

Despite Alcoy’s proximity to the coast, (only 40 to 50 miles), the climate changes dramatically.  This climatic difference is due to the mountain ranges which surround Alcoy and which rise majestically from the spectacular countryside.  Although the area is beautiful it is not exactly the type of climate that the Europeans prefer.

The town centre is located in a valley surrounded by the Mariola Biscoi, L'Ombrie, La Serreta, El Carrascal de la Font Roja, La Carrasqueta and Els Plans mountains.    Three rivers run through the centre, joining with the River Serpis and flowing out to sea at Gandia.

Despite these orographic difficulties the landscape is really beautiful with pine and oak trees covering approximately 85% of the mountainous terrain.

Demographically, Alcoy’s population has dwindled to just over 60,000 considerably less than 30 years ago and immigration to the area is low compared to the coastal resorts.  The language spoken is predominantlyValencian.

Historically the town has always been linked to industry, firstly the textile industry then to the metal and paper industries.  The importance of these three sectors was instrumental in the construction of the port in Gandia although nowadays new techniques have replaced these pioneering industries.

The town has benefited from tourism with the improvements in communications and the increase in hotel accommodation although it cannot compete with the sun and sea of the coastal resorts

Academically, Alcoy’s economy is strengthened by the Superior Polytechnic College which forms part of the Polytechnic Union of Valencia, and also by the College of Art and Design and the Conservatory of Music.

The bridges in Alcoy are another of its many attractions.  A dozen of them adorn the rivers in the area.

Two beautiful nature parks, the Font Roja and the Sierra de Mariola are found on the outskirts of the town, both recognized for the beauty of their landscapes.

The town holds a very important “fiesta”, the origins of which date back to the 13^th Century.  This is the famous Moors and Christians festival which is held every April .  This festival was declared to be of International Tourist interest in 1980 because of its spectacular costumes and floats.  The fiesta’s origins date back to 1276 and the Battle of Alcoy, when villagers clashed with the Muslim Alzraq’s troops.  During the battle it is said that St George appeared on his horse at the city walls and that his appearance was decisive in winning the battle.  St George is the patron saint of Alcoy.

The town is also famous for the Three Kings Parade held annually on the 5^th of January, which is the oldest in Spain and also for the Belen de Tirisiti, a puppet theatre which reflects popular religious themes of the 19^th Century.

Not to be forgotten are the famous olives stuffed with anchovies, which originated from and are commercialized from Alcoy.  Other famous local dishes include Olleta, Borreta and Pericana.

A coffee liqueur is the typical local beverage, drunk on its own or mixed with lemonade as well as an aniseed liqueur and a liqueur made from herbs collected from the local Sierra de Mariola.

In November 2011 a new motorway connection was opened connecting Alcoy with Alicante and Valencia and which should prove beneficial to the area.

F.J. Villaplana 

Exbenidorm

Humberto Armas Cable Ski impresario in Benidorm

In the 1960s, Benidorm was becoming known as a holiday destination and Spain was experiencing the birth of the package holiday.  A number of impresarios contributed with their particular grain of sand to build a modern Benidorm different from other Spanish beach resorts.  Among these impresarios was Humberto Armas.  Born in the Canary Islands, he created something unique in Spain, the Cable Ski.  Today, 45 years later the cable ski receives millions of visitors each year and is an important part of Benidorm’s tourist offer to the many that visit our shores.  Today it is Humberto’s son holding the reins; he has been at the front of the business, running it for the last five years.

How did you come up with the idea more than 40 years ago to start an activity such as this?

It was 1962, I was studying in Hamburg (Germany) and read an article in a local newspaper that they were trying to water ski without using a speed boat and I was fascinated.  I consulted with an engineer, and then became obsessed with the idea of bringing this over to Spain.  At that time Sr. Manuel Fraga was the Tourist Minister for Spain and he recommended that I take a look at Benidorm and San Antonio in Ibiza as possible locations.  I wasn’t impressed with San Antonio, because of the clients and the calmness of the water so I came to Benidorm, had a look at the Rincon de Loix area and thought it was perfect.

Once you had chosen the location, how did you convert your dream to reality?

I paid a visit to Don Pedro Zaragoza who was the Mayor of Benidorm at that time and he endorsed the project, he gave it the O.K.  The building permits took two years to finalise and the construction took six months.  The construction costs were very high, there was no pier or jetty in the area and the towers had to be built with blocks of cement weighing 120 tonnes.  Thousands of small blocks were constructed along the Avenida Mediterraneo, they were placed into small three wheeled vehicles and taken down to the shore; from there they were placed into small rowing boats and taken the last few metres out to sea.  Local fishermen from Villajoyosa where brought in to help during the construction.

In Germany they already practised this sport but how was it received in Spain?

The patent is actually German and there are more than 100 Cable Skis in Germany.  Today it is rare to find a country that does not have a cable ski.  In Spain, there is a cable ski installation in the reservoir in Segovia, another one in Marbella but the one here in Benidorm is unique because it is located in the sea a few metres from the shore and the only one with a diesel motor.

How did the locals react to the installation of the Cable Ski?

People had no idea what it was at first and many local fishermen were reticent.  In fact the skiers move the water and the fish which is actually favourable for fishing.  We also have a good safety record and have not had any accidents over the 45 years which has meant that the local administrations have allowed us to continue to operate from this location.

How many people visit the Cable Ski in Benidorm?

Thousands enjoy the cable ski each season, between 50.000 – 100.000 people.  The price is reasonable and allows the visitor to practise water skiing exactly the same as if with a speed boat.  Many tourists come to Benidorm primarily to water ski and then take advantage of the other activities on offer.

How have things changed over the years?

The Cable Ski started with the classic mountain skis, i.e. with two skis, now that has evolved into the single ski or wakeboard which is really popular with the younger age group.

Has the skier profile changed too?

There has been an increase in National visitors, i.e. Spanish visitors, before the visitors  were mainly German or other nationalities that practice Alpine skiing in their own countries.   Now we have clients from Alicante, Valencia, Madrid, the Basque Country and Asturias along with French and British skiers.  Many Russians are now living in the province and we even have Spanish pensioners using our facilities.

Have the installations changed much over the years?

Yes.  We have renovated and improved the connection between the skier and the cable.  We have also renovated the towers, with all of these improvements it means that it is easier and safer to practice water skiing in the kilometre long circuit.

Do you think that Benidorm has taken full advantage of its coastline in regard to the practise of water or nautical sports?

Benidorm has beautiful weather and beaches but has not taken advantage of the tourism connected to nautical sports and one of the reasons for this is that Benidorm does not have mooring facilities that other areas have.   The Town hall has always financed courses for children in different sports but each year we see less diving and surfing has completely disappeared.  They should encourage more nautical sports as apart from it being a healthy activity it is much better than the trend today of “Botellon” or binge drinking.

How do people from other areas and countries find out about the Cable Ski in Benidorm?

Normally via the internet although the best publicity is word of mouth.

After 45 years you must have some great anecdotes?

Of course.  There is one in particular that I remember well.  When women first started wearing bikinis in Benidorm, it was only the foreigners that wore them.  One day a French woman lost the top half of her bikini and all the Spaniards ran to cover her up.  Later on when women started to sunbathe topless the local women collected signatures to stop them bathing topless on the platform.

Did they succeed?

I have no idea.

Has there been any other interesting occurrences’ over the years?

Yes, various skiers have met in Benidorm while practising water ski from our platform and later married.

Macu Esteve.

We interview the Head of animal care and education in Terra Natura Benidorm

The close relationship that exists between humans and animals.

We talked to Enrique Sanchez, the head of animal care and education in Terra Natura.

He told us about the day to day activities in the park with the various different species, the specific care needed for the animals and about the staff who take care of them.

How many different species do you have in Terra Natura?

We have 1,500 animals in total from 300 different species.

How many of the staff work directly with the animals?

There are 22 members of staff that take care of the animals along with one veterinary surgeon all of whom work within their special field.  All animals cannot be cared for in the same manner, each requires specialized care, elephants for example require very different care than mammals and birds.

What sort of day to day care do the animals need?

Their shelters are cleaned daily as are the fields and enclosures where they roam.  They are fed with the special diet each species needs to survive.  They are given medical care if and when it is needed and also surgery when required.  The keepers or carers clean and dress any wounds that need cleaning under the supervision of the veterinary Surgeon and this is always carried out with two animal keepers who follow strict guidelines of prevention and safety.

What is so special about the care given to these animals?

The animals are treated just like human beings; they require periodic medical checks to maintain optimal health.  We have to ensure that they receive all the vitamins they need, that they receive all the correct nutrients from their diet as well as administering any medication needed.

How many people are required to do this?

We have a team that complements each other.  Some work in maintenance and others in other departments.  The gardeners for example are responsible for maintaining the vegetation in perfect condition for the animals’ habitat.   The animals,  are the main attraction and everything is done for their wellbeing.  We also have special staff who prepare the individual dietary requirement for each animal here in the park.

What training is required to become an animal keeper?

In my opinion and based on my experience this is a vocation.  It is hard work and you spend long hours with the animals, taking care of them at all times.  Currently there are no specific studies what is needed is experience and a love of animals.  You may have had experience working in a pet shop or you may have already had experience working in a zoo.  There are many different species of animals and you cannot compare one to the other.  It is essential that  staff are willing to work hard, have a positive attitude;  are responsible and willing to work as a team.

What about the long term plans of the Park?  Are there plans to expand the facilities or to increase the number of animals?

We are open to any proposal.  We belong to the AIZA the Iberian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and to EAZA, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria. These association members are among the most important zoos and parks on a National, International and European level and uphold quality proving that they are more than just a place to visit. Therefore the park has two functions, environmental education and captive breeding of endangered species, as a way to ensure survival.    We aim to make the public aware that when they pay for their entrance tickets that they are contributing to the protection and conservation of different species.

How do you work with the animals? Is there a training program or are they trained in any way?

We train with them, we don’t train them.  We respect their characters and their natural behavior in the wild and we use positive reinforcement, never punishment.  This way we interact with them, show them plenty of love and affection and we are rewarded with their love and affection.

Leticio Murillo

Exbenidorm

Interview with David Moore

Details

Created: Tuesday, 13 April 2010 15:30

Choreographer at the Benidorm Palace.

Over the past five years David Moore, a Parisian choreographer has masterminded the shows at the Benidorm Palace.

David is currently putting the final touches to his new show “De Luxe” while still overseeing the nightly performances of the current show “Crescendo”.

Rehearsals for the new show are already underway and the opening night should be during the second week of May.  “De Luxe” promises to fuse different dance styles and different eras together.

 David when did you first work with the Benidorm Palace?

The first time we worked together was in 1978 but it was only for a few months.  Then in 1999, I was asked to choreograph a show to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Benidorm Palace.. That show was based on Egypt and the Mediterranean.  Over the years there were various other projects, then in 2007, I was asked to produce the whole show; choreography, costumes, scenery design etc.

 How have the shows evolved over this period of time?

 The shows were very different before, they were divided into two sections, one part dedicated to the Spanish Ballet and the other to the International Ballet.   Since 2006, the shows have been mixed and it has worked very well. The show should include something for everyone, for the Spanish visitor as well as for the visitors from other countries.

 How and when are the shows changed?

 We create and produce a new show every year, which opens approximately for Easter or at the end of April.  The process of creating a new show is a team effort.  I work closely with costume and scenery designers as well as with other choreographers.  The team is an interesting mix,  for example: - Javier Valverde and Paloma Aznar are both Flamenco dancers who have just returned from a tour of Russia.  Horal Van buuren is a famous choreographer, World Latin dance Champion and has also appeared as a judge on American Dance programs.  We also work with Manuel Fiabane and Nicci Swift for the costume and scenery designs.

Each new show starts with an idea, a theme, and from there we then design the stage settings and costumes.  Sometimes when we are working on a particular show, new ideas spring up which can be used for the next show, the creative process has many roads.

The Benidorm Palace audience is so varied and of different age groups.  How do you satisfy them all?

The age group is very important when creating a show.  If a choreographer did not cater for the younger age group, then these live night club shows would not exist.

Television has introduced the world of dance and shows to the younger audiences and in their own homes.  Shows such as Fame, Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing with the Stars and all the other spin offs have proved very popular.   In our shows we must include something for the 18 year olds, so we include music from the Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga or Rap music, without forgetting the older members of the audience, who may prefer Paco el Chocolatero or David Bisbal.

A clear example of this is in the current show “Crescendo” which contains a routine set  to the music of YMCA a hit for the band Village People.  This number gets some of the  audience singing and dancing along, but does not have the same impact on the older and younger age groups.

Is it difficult to direct and produce a show such as “De Luxe”?

I work hard to ensure that the Benidorm Palace has a fitting show.  The Palace has a reputation to maintain, it has always been known for its professionalism and for the spectacular shows produced.

How many artists perform in the shows such as Crescendo or De Luxe and how long are the rehearsals for a show of these characteristics?

 There are approximately 50 artists and rehearsals can last six or seven weeks.  It is a difficult process which requires flexibility.  We have to remember that some of the dancers will be dancing at night in the current show, while the newer members will only be rehearsing.

 What is the theme of  “De Luxe” and its duration?

 The show will have two parts; the duration of each part is one hour and fifteen minutes with an interval in between.  Each part will contain a mixture of dances and styles.

 Is the Benidorm Palace a good place for dancers to train and develop their skills?

 If a dancer comes to work at the Benidorm Palace, they must be aware that the training will be difficult and complete.  They will have to perform the various dance styles included in each show whether ,  Classical, Flamenco, Contemporary, Revue, ballroom, Latin or Irish.

You could say that it is a variation of Fame without the cameras as dancers are expected to learn styles they haven’t studied or dominate.  A school where dancers have to be quick learners as the final product is not a dance school production.

What is the secret of Benidorm Palace’s success?

 One of the reasons is the staff.  The staff have passion; they are dedicated and always available 24 hours a day to ensure that the Palace runs efficiently.  On the other hand the shows have changed and evolved, the product changing with the times.  The stage format and size of the venue mean that sometimes we can’t do the things we would like to do, therefore there are many headaches when creating some of the scenery and how we stage the numbers.

 You mentioned that the Benidorm Palace has adapted its shows to new trends and kept up with the times, is this something unusual in night clubs today?

 Not everyone is aware that you must change.  There are still clubs that continue with the format that Lina Morgan made popular, but we must attract and cultivate a new audience.  The audience today is more demanding, they’ve seen more, so for me it is a challenge to push and go further, to contact people from afar who have different experiences from my own.

 What other places do you consider to be in the forefront for this type show?

 Paris, Las Vegas and Berlin.  In Paris the night clubs and shows are more traditional, in Las Vegas, there is a good variety for everyone and in Berlin too, there are some interesting things to be seen.

 Many artists remain active after years in show business.  Is the stage addictive?

 Yes, it’s addictive.  My whole life has been connected to show business, whether as an actor, dancer or choreographer.  As a child I attended school in the mornings and at night performed with the National Ballet.

 Macu Esteve.