There is a forest fire on Gran Canaria at present

See pictures at http://www.canarias7.es/multimedia/galeria.cfm?id=1676&n=1

Things are looking bad in the mountains but it is not affecting the south coast, apart from smoke

Due to go to Maspalomas in a couple of weeks.

Anyone know if the fires are affecting that area?

I have friends in Gran Canaria and they have been evacuated from their home as a precaution. They are in the hills above Maspalomas. I very much doubt that it will travel down as far as that.

Very sadly Palmitoes Park has been devastated and they think they have lost some of the animals in the fire.

Sarah

due to fly out on thursday, getting a bit concerned about it. we are staying in meloneras.

assuming we`re still going, anyone know the exchange rates at the moment?

I got back from G Canaria last night. I stayed in the south of the island at Masplomas. The forest fires are not affecting the resort or Playa del Ingles attall
However there is a strong hot wind called the Sirocco which is making it very uncomfortable with temperatures during the day of over 100 degrees centigrate only going down to high seventies at night.
Hopefully this wind will pass in thenext few days and things will return to normal. Walking the streets during the day is awesome!! Imagine being in a Tumble drier, its so hot and windy you need to carry water with you just to go round the corner to the shops, within seconds your body is covered in sweat, wearing trousers or tight clothes is not an option!!!!
Mind you the wonderful news to report from G Canaria is that you will get a lovely suntan in hours without having to lie in the sun for days!!!!
It didnt spoil my holiday and anyone heading off in the next few days is guaranteed sun and thrills and spills
Dont worry, pack lots of shorts and loose fitting clothes and you will be allright

thank you so much for taking the time to post that info.
I feel better about it now, I have young kids and Ive been very worried about them getting burnt.

could you tell me what the exchange rates were like in maspolomas.

fires now looking like they are under control. ALL of south coast is UNAFFECTED maspalomas, playa del ingles puerto rico all normal. temps going down to low 40s high 30s today and nights are more bareable hoorah!

thanks neilthebeaver. good to hear that is the case

i feel really petty keep asking this considering the serious fire problems but if anyone knows the current exhange rates in GC I would be grateful.

If you want to get the best exchange rate for sterling/euros forget about changing money in Masplomas, you will be ripped off and have to pay commision.
The best exchange rate can be obtained from any Western Union franchise on your local High street. They dont charge any commission and you get a much better deal than any bureau de change in the UK.
I travel to spain every six weeks and have found them to be the best for good exchange rates and they will buy your unused whole euros on return from your holiday.
Masplomas is a very civilized resort to stay in and you are spoilt for choice if you want to eat out cheaply
Enjoy!!!!!!