Instruction manual

Casa De Fortuna/8 Page 4
for those chillier evenings in the winter months of December to February if it is
needed.
Water:
Water is the island‟s most precious commodity. Please use it sparingly. The
tap water in Lanzarote does not carry any germs but since all water is reclaimed
from the sea by the very expensive process of desalination, it has a very high
mineral content and can cause stomach upsets as you will not be used to it.
Whilst tap water is fine for cleaning teeth etc., you are advised to drink only
bottled water. Bottled water is available from all supermarkets and the various
brands are quite widely varying in price. Our experience shows very little in
taste between the brands so there is little point in buying the most expensive
brands. The water in the square bottles such as Agua De La Palma or Sierra
Cazokla is far easier to manage in the fridge. Chafariz is available for around €1
for a 5-litre bottle and the Marcial Supermarcado offers the SPAR own brand
which is similarly priced.
Because of the scarcity of water, you are requested to use it sparingly – do not
leave the tap running whilst brushing your teeth, please use a glass. The hot
water tank is quite small and takes a while to heat up so please shower rather
than bath if you want to remain friends with the rest of your holiday party! We
even switch the shower off between soapings and rinses to ensure that
everyone has some hot water.
Mosquitoes:
You will be delighted to know that the villa has been fitted with charming
shutters with integral mosquito nets. These open outwards and can be locked
from the inside for security when shut. This means that you will be able to
open windows and the main bedroom patio door without the fear of the „little
horrors‟ invading the rooms! At certain times of the year, mosquitoes are
present on Lanzarote and the main problem is that you usually don‟t notice
them until you are bitten. Mosquito bites can be very uncomfortable.
Currency:
Since the Canary Islands are Spanish owned, the local currency is the Euro
although you will still find some shops marking items up in Pesetas.
Customs Allowances:
Since 1992 the Canary Islands have been in the E.U. However there is still a
duty free allowance that you cannot exceed when going back to the U.K.