Dear Islander,
If you are lucky enough to find an “escritura” for a Balearics mooring in your Christmas stocking, I would suggest that you resist the temptation to sell it for some holiday cash, as it may be worth a lot more later on.
The government announcement of two new 30 year marina concessions, and the indication that six more are to follow in short order, has I guess, already got the Euro signs rolling in the eyes of certain entrepreneurs, whose lust for profit has been suppressed during the last few years.
During this period some lapsed (or soon to be lapsed) concessions have hung in the political balance, and coupled with the recent figures from ANADE (The Balearics Yachtsman´s Association) which indicate a 15% shortfall in required moorings, and four to six year waiting lists - I would bet a hundred quid to a stale mince pie, that the only way is up, for mooring prices in the foreseeable future!
Now, as its the season of goodwill, we have dedicated page 5 of this issue to some very worthwhile charity appeals, so we hope that you will have a few Euros left after your Christmas shopping to give to a worthy cause!
And as we go into 2007, we have teamed up with a few people to bring some slightly different features into The Islander for the new year.
On the technical / yachting side, we have tied in with HISWA (Dutch Marine Manufacturers Association) to bring you up to date with new builds and equipment innovations from their Netherlands members, who are retaining their dominant position in the superyacht market.
On the lifestyle and leisure side, we have three new contributions, the first being an “EU Citizens Corner” which will be a regular feature, giving useful and topical information, straight from the newly formed department, which was created to give support to all of us Euro/Balearic settlers.
For “Things2Do” we have joined forces with Digame the “What´s On In Mallorca” guide, who will give us monthly listings of music and leisure events, and great places to eat out.
Also you will find Mark and Lucila´s “Sofasurfers” film review, covering the latest DVD releases for your home, or on-board entertainment pleasure.
We really hope that together with the “New Books In Preview” section (page 24) contributed by Morag from the “The Bookworm” - we will have something for everyone´s leisure time as we roll into next year.
But most importantly, we hope you will continue to read The Islander.
Feliz Navidad!
Peter Franklin