Island Population Grows 5.4% in 2008
Lanzarote´s official population has grown by 5.4% during the course of 2008. According to figures just released by Spain’s National Institute of Statistics. With a total of 139,506 people now residing on the island permanently.
The INE figures show that the number of registered residents on the island rose from 132,336 people to 139,506 during 2008. With the municipality of Yaiza, which encompasses the fast growing resort of Playa Blanca, registering by far the largest percentage increase in population. Up 18.8% from 10,894 to 12,947 residents.
Population increases were also recorded in the island’s other six municipalities. With Tias registering a 6.7% increase – up to 19,487 people from 18,263 in 2007. And Teguise up by 6.3% from 17,688 to 18,798. With increases also recorded in Arrecife (3.9%), Tinajo (2.8%), Haria (2.8%) and San Bartolome (1.4%).
Arrecife remains the most populous district on the island – with a total of 59,040 people. Followed by Tias (19,487), Teguise (18,798), San Bartolome (18,300), Yaiza (12,947), Tinajo (5,746) and Haria (5,188).
The INE figures also chart the growth in the islands population over the last decade. Which has expanded over the last decade from 84,849 officially registered residents in 1998 to today’s figure of 139,506.
Over this sale period the population of Tias has nearly doubled in size whilst in Yaiza the population has nearly quadrupled over the last ten years.
Monarch Announce New Gatwick Service
Monarch airlines has announced a further addition to their scheduled service of flights to Lanzarote. In response to what the company describes as “Strong demand from customers taking advantage of early flight booking offers.”
The new additional service from Gatwick Airport starts on May 1st with flight tickets available from £52.99 one way, including taxes.
Commenting on the additional services, managing director of Monarch’s scheduled service division, Liz Savage said “We have already seen strong demand for our Summer 2009 services, and particularly the Spanish Islands which have been left underserved by the failure and withdrawal of a number of airlines during 2008. Monarch currently offers a fantastic schedule of flights to the Canary and Balearic Islands and is already market leader on many of these routes. The addition of the extra flights will mean that more people can now take advantage of Monarch’s low fares and get away for less next summer”.
Admission Charges at LagOmar
A number of tourists have recently reported that admission is now being charged at LagOmar – the former home of the famous actor Omar Sharif designed in part by the ubiquitous César Manrique. Which now operates as an upscale restaurant.
Until recently visitors to the site could enjoy a stroll around the impressive grounds and gardens gratis. However, that all now seems set to change, with the proprietors seeking to charge a fee for admission.
January Sales Underway
Sales season in Lanzarote starts on Wednesday January 7th and will continue until 6th March. With substantial discounts being offered by stores for at least one week and in some instances for the full two month period.
All the major chain stores, such as Zara and Mango, will be taking part, making it an ideal time to browse the bargains on offer at venues such as the Biosfera Shopping Centre. As is usual during sales season, consumer rights are fully protected.
Lanzarote´s Spectacular Sights
A recent poll conducted in Spain to identify the most spectacular monuments within the country has selected two of the main attractions Lanzarote has to offer.
Compiled by Telecinco.es, the Spanish television company, there were thirty-six places of exceptional beauty selected by the public, including Timanfaya Natural Park and the Jameos del Agua.
