'Are there any shoe shops in Los Lllanos de Aridane' is one question I was recently asked. And the answer is 'yes for sure, it's the biggest city on the island and you'll find plenty of shops of almost every kind.'
And then, 'Oh, I don't want to go to Los Llanos, I don't like big cities.'
Well actually although it is a city with a dual carriageway running almost right through its centre, at the heart of it is the wonderful Plaza de España which is surrounded by a pedestrain precinct. So although it's a vibrant city and certainly more commercial than Santa Cruz, it still manges to feel tranquil and more like a village than a city.
The Plaza de España is the place to go and sit and chat, have a glass of wine or coffee and get down to some serious people watching.
When we were there last week, the magnificent Indian laurel trees which populate the Plaza were in the midst of being pruned. The trees were brought from Cuba in the mid nineteenth century and whilst the pruning can seem severe, they've seen it all before. And probably heard it all before too.
And then there's the culture. If you take a wander in the back streets, particularly the ones that rise up from the Plaza de España, you'll discover all the tiny, multi-coloured cottages jammed in along the narrow streets, one after another.
Around the plaza are the grand mansions, some of them housing the municipal offices. And some huge murals too!
Around most corners there's also a great view of the Caldera which is a good reminder that this is La Palma - La Isla Bonita!
You might also bump into a bar on your travels, often a in restored old house so there's plenty of atmosphere and a warm welcome too. Street cafes abound, mostly in pedestrianised areas. This is a great chance to try out the tapas - the 'little snacks' - or a 3-course meal.
Certainly worth seeking out is the Archaeological Museum Benahoarita which is full of fascinating treasures. It's currently open from 09.00 to 20.00 hrs, Monday to Saturday. On Sundays until 14.00 hrs, on fiestas, it's closed. They also hold photographic exhibitions so even if you've been once, you might want to drop by for a second visit. It's a great way to discover the history of La Palma.
For anybody who has any doubts, Los Llanos is more than just a tangle of streets - it's got a heart and a soul and that's for tourists and locals alike!
