Maisie: Believe In Yourself

With a great agency at her side, MOT Models, Maisie has developed into the model she is today. You need a lot of self-confidence for this job, and she tells us how she got it. She also has some other tips for newcomers to the life of a model. But she is not only interested in modelling. There are several jobs in this field that are mostly hidden behind the scenes. Because of her enthusiasm for the whole industry, she could also imagine working in another field. Read more in the interview with Maisie Stock.

• Maisie’s Instagram

It’s Just About You

FIV: Thank you so much that you took some time for our interview. You are still young, so do you still go to school or study besides modeling?

MAISIE: I don’t study, I left collage when I was 17 and pursued modelling as I have always been into fashion.

FIV: When you were always into fashion it must be the perfect job for you, but where did the self-confidence come from for modeling with only 17?

MAISIE: I think I gained more confidence when I stopped caring so much about what everyone thought about me. If you doubt everything you do, it’s going to hold you back in life and you won’t grow. I realised the only persons opinion that matters are your own. The longer I modelled and did shoots the more confidence I got with posing and other little things. I had less confidence when I was trying to fit into other peoples and societies beauty standards, this made me extremely self-conscious and unhappy. But I noticed that I shouldn’t be trying to be the same as everyone as we are all beautiful and was born a certain way for a reason. Beauty standards change so much in this era, its hard to keep up! There is a ridiculous amount of pressure on the younger community. So, I hope everyone can look in the mirror and be happy the way they are. The world is a more beautiful with you in it. My agency, MOT Models, boosted my confidence from when I joined and I’m lucky to be working in such an amazing team with wonderful people which feels like a little family.

photo: Tomila Katsman

Life Next To Modeling

FIV: That’s great that you have such a nice agency especially because modelling is very demanding and also time-consuming. How can you combine your job as model with school, studies or private life?

MAISIE: There can be gaps in between work so being flexible is key which is why I work my part time job around my modelling schedule every week. School has to come first but once you have gained what you need and feel like you’re ready to leave education, it’s good to continue learning on your own and having active interests that you are keen to learn about. Doing activities and working gives me a healthy balance and keeps it interesting.

FIV: So can you do other hobbies on the side or do you already see your job also as a hobby?

MAISIE: No I see my job as work but work I enjoy. With my free time I love being around nature as I grew up in the countryside, I like to go on walks to nice viewpoints with my hammock, I really appreciate time to myself or with my friends. I love the quiet compared to the city.

The Best About It

FIV: So since you are enjoying your model life. What do you like the most about modeling?

MAISIE: The thing I like the most about modelling is I get to the opportunity to meet lots of different amazing people from all over the world. You learn about lots of different things from people with another perspective that opens your mind. Every job is unique with different people and a different location so it never gets boring and you get to see and go places that you might of not have otherwise had the chance to see.

photo: Tomila Katsman

Beauty And Fashion

FIV: At the beginning you already mentioned that you were always interested in fashion. Do still know, how you became interested in beauty and fashion?

MAISIE: My first interest for beauty and fashion started when I was young. My grandad is an artist and I always wanted to be a fashion designer. He would teach me how to draw and I always loved the idea and freedom to be creative and create beauty in different forms. But now I am interested in styling instead of designing but who knows what might happen. I like to keep an open mind. My love and passion for drawing and art is still alive.

FIV:  So are there other professions that are interesting for you? I can imagine due to your love and passion for art, something in this direction.

MAISIE: There are a lot of different professions in the modelling industry as most are creative so I’m interested in a lot of different areas. I find photography very interesting and also styling. I would love to do this eventually in future as it seems fun and creative.

Starting Your Career

FIV: There are a lot of young people dreaming of a model life. What do you think is the best age to start modelling?

MAISIE: I’m not too sure if there is a right age to start. As I started when I was 17 and loved it, I have worked with models who started modelling from a young age or an older age so I don’t think there is a right age, its whenever you feel like you want to get in front of the camera. Everyone is different, modelling is fun and safeguarded with a proper agency it’s great for any age.

FIV: And what advice would you give to other younger models to start their career?

MAISIE: I get quite a few direst messages from young girls, women and men asking how they can pursue a modelling career or how to get into the modelling industry. I would always say make sure the agency is legitimate as there are agencies who take a fee while joining which should never be the case. Also, different agencies will sometimes have a different look they are after so don’t lose confidence of one turns you down. Apply to a lot of agencies, and I am sure you will find one that suits you best. You don’t need any professional pictures or a portfolio, all you need is a clear picture of yourself with very little or no make-up. Don’t lose hope if you don’t get signed to an agency and it takes you a while to get a paid shoot as this is normal and will sometimes take a while to get clients and so. While you are on set watch the other models you’re working with and ask questions this will help you pick up ideas and get in the flow for posing. It is really important to feel safe, so finding a good agency to have your back is essential.

photo: Tomila Katsman

Future Dreams

FIV: To finish, of course we want to get to know your dream. What dream do you want to fulfil with this profession?

MAISIE: At the moment I like modelling but eventually I would love to get into styling. Modelling is perfect as I get to work with the stylist on set alongside me and get an understanding of what the profession holds. Being in the fashion industry already has helped a lot with networking and meeting the right people to fulfil my dream. I have met some lovely people whilst working, who said they will allow me to shadow them to gain experience but as I will be learning from them, I just need to make sure I can take the time off work whilst being financially secure.

Annie: Amazing, adorable, authentic

Milan, probably the most famous model and fashion city in the world, is the home of Ana María Parfene, or simply Annie. Despite a lot of competition in the popular city for models, she was able to build up a great career for herself after only three years of modeling, with which she wants to fulfill her dreams. Among others, she has achieved all this with her mother agency, 5.0 Models Management, and Indastria Models by her side. Besides her life as a model, you can also learn some great tips for your own career from her.

• Annie’s Instagram

Live, love, Milan

FIV: Hey Annie, it is a pleasure for us to have this interview with you. At the moment you are a Milan based Model, so we can learn a lot from you. What is life like in Milan?

ANNIE: Simply wonderful, I feel very identified with the lifestyle and culture that Milan transmits, cappuccino, pasta, pizza, art, fashion… I wouldn’t know what to choose! Since I’ve been working here my life and my tastes have changed a lot.

FIV: I can well imagine that life must be wonderful there, especially as a model, it must be exciting there, right?

ANNIE: That’s right, we all know that the heart of fashion is born in Milan, here there are opportunities for all kinds of jobs and models ; advertising campaigns, shooting, showroom, presentations, shows, ecommerce… every model should try to work here!

FIV: So you haven’t lived there all your life, so i guess you moved there at some point for your career?

ANNIE: I was born in Romania, but since I was two years old I have lived in Valencia, this year I started to travel to Milan for work.

Photo: Ana Maria Parfene

Beginning of her model life

FIV: I would be interested to know how long you have been modeling? Because you seem experienced to me.

ANNIE: Not much, actually it has been three years since I started to focus and follow my dreams and passions, it’s not relatively long if I compare myself with colleagues who have been in the industry since they were 14 years old hahaha.

When dreams come true

FIV: this is surprising, but you are doing a really good job, so what has been your biggest success or job so far?

ANNIE: I have made several campaigns for well-known brands in Spain as pikolinos, Lois, Teoxane, I have also catwalk for designers such as Custo, Dolores Cortés, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada and I am currently working in the showroom of Giuseppe Zanotti, I wouldn’t know which one to choose!

FIV: That sounds great and is an amazing achievement after only three years in the modeling business. Do you have still a dream that you would like to make come true?

ANNIE: Of course, more than one in fact hahahaha… I would love to be able to see the world traveling while working for well-known brands. I would also like to try acting, I’ve always thought that fashion and film go hand in hand.

Photo: Ana Maria Parfene

Friends and Emily Ratajkowski as motivation

FIV: For this job and these dreams, you should definitely have an interest in fashion. Have you always been interested in the fashion world or did it develop at some point through a role model, perhaps all by itself?

ANNIE: The truth is that my interest in fashion came when I started college, I have always been very flirtatious and asked my classmates for pictures, they told me that I should be in an agency and focus on fashion. They were my support and my impulse to dedicate myself to this world and of course my inspiration is Emily Ratajkowski, I adore her. Surprisingly when I was four years old I didn’t like to have my picture taken and now look at me… it’s my everyday life hahaha.

Photo: Ana Maria Parfene

Getting Jobs in Milan

FIV: Great, so you definitely don’t lack motivation and inspiration. Can it still tend to be harder to get jobs as a model in Milan because of the competition?

ANNIE: It is true that there is a lot of competition, but it is also true that there is a lot of demand. Personally I have had no problems working in Milan, in fact I have worked a lot and well, it all depends on how much you trust yourself and what you set out to achieve.

How to become a successful model

FIV: I am very happy for you that things are going so well for you and that you can gain some experience. Can you give New Faces any advice on what they can or should look out for in order to become a successful model?

ANNIE: The first and most important thing is to get information and find an agency that is professional, serious and that you feel comfortable to start with. There are many nowadays but that does not mean that all of them are good… The second thing is to make a good book with basic clothes and natural beauty, it is important that clients can see how you really are. Finally, trust and believe in yourselves, attitude is what really opens opportunities.

Photo: Ana Maria Parfene

5 tips from Annie for you

FIV: And finally you might have any top 5 tips or must-haves for models?

ANNIE: The first tip I can advise a model is not to compare herself with her colleagues, each model goes at her own pace. Second, learn to enjoy the process of evolution in the modeling career, we all receive a lot of “NO” from clients. The third is to transmit naturally the role that each new job requires of us, because it is never the same, today you may have to transmit a sweet character and tomorrow the opposite! Fourth tip, maintain a balance between body and soul, food, sport and mental health is very important, if you fail one, you fail all in this world. Finally, be realistic with the possibilities and limitations of each one and do not reach the level of obsession about the fact that you have not gotten X job. I have always believed that when one door closes, three new opportunities are born, you have to know how to take advantage of them.

Photo: Ana Maria Parfene

• Instagram: Shawn Johnson East 
• Youtube: Shawn Johnson East 
• Blog: Shawn Johnson East 

Youtuber, Influencer, Athlete and future mother

FIV: Hi Shawn! With more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram, you are part of the most appreciate influencer from Nashville. When did you start blogging and what central message do you hope to impact to followers through your posts?

Shawn; I started blogging 3 years ago and have tried to focus on being as real and vulnerable as I can with my followers. I feel like we live in a world that only accepts perfection, Andrew and I are almost anti that, showing that life isn’t perfect but it can be beautiful in its own ways. I think overall, we do our best to project positivity in all of our posts.

FIV: As an American gymnast and the 2008 Olympic balance beam gold medalist, you are a successful and amazing athlete ! What have been your keys to success? What advices could you give to people who dream of making their dreams come true like you?

Shawn: I would say you have to fall in love with something in order to succeed. Falling in love with it means you accept all the challenges and sacrifices that come with it. As far as my keys to success, having fun and working hard have been rewarding to me. Always remember to have fun, always.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByBt_64hrKa/

FIV: Youtube is one of your favourite playground. What are the biggest challenges of being a Youtuber?

Shawn: Some of the biggest challenges would be sharing your life with the world and still trying to save some of it for yourself. It’s tough to find that healthy balance of sharing the appropriate amount without giving everything away. On top of that, it’s difficult to maintain relevancy and continue making videos that our audience wants to watch!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvA4ghAOpc0

Beauty tips – The best products to get the perfect skin

FIV: You are used to work with beauty brands like Estee Lauder to get the perfect skin. Which products do you recommend?

Shawn: Although I love all of Estee Lauder’s products, the Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup has been one of my favorite foundations for a longtime! It’s full-coverage and lightweight so really makes my skin look amazing.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwxihyMB71x/

Sport training – Daily workout routine

FIV: One part of your instagram account and youtube channel is about sport training. What is a good daily workout routine for you?

Shawn: I’ve gotten into a routine where I try to workout at least 30 minutes a day. I find that doing High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has been the most rewarding for my body. It helps relieve a lot of the aches and pains that come with pregnancy!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsYxOtJBfqO/

Love – How to make a couple last ?

FIV: You and your husband are so cute and beautiful! How did you meet each other? Do you have any advices on how to make a couple last?

Shawn: Andrew and I actually have a pretty crazy love story. Oddly enough, we met through Andrew’s bigger brother, Guy, who was an Olympic Cyclist. I met Guy at the London Olympics, where I spoke with him about considering to attend Vanderbilt, and he instantly thought to connect me with his younger brother, Andrew. It only took a few special dates for me to know that Andrew was the one for me. If you guys want more details about our love story, check out our Youtube page – we actually did an entire series about our relationship! The advice Andrew and I always give is know that a relationship is not not easy and you have to be committed to working at it. We do our best to show people that relationships aren’t perfect – that being said, if you’re willing to work hard and love that person and all of their flaws, that’s when a relationship truly grows.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwaP0GChxgS/

Pregnancy – How to prepare yourself for childbirth ?

FIV: Congratulations on your pregnancy! Do you realize that you are going to be a mother? How do you feel?

Shawn: Thank you!! I honestly still can’t believe it, it’s the biggest miracle and Andrew and I couldn’t be more excited to meet baby East.

FIV: On your Youtube channel, you have shared many videos about your pregnancy. As an athlete, what is your daily sport routine to prepare yourself for childbirth?

Shawn: I just try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’m focusing on eating, sleeping, and working out a healthy amount. I try not be too intense with my workouts, but getting at least 30 minutes in each day is my goal. I want to keep my muscles fresh throughout this pregnancy. The healthier I keep my body, the healthier the childbirth will be!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLIjWetSyUk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVPxzgkWPwc

• Instagram: Shawn Johnson East 
• Youtube: Shawn Johnson East 
• Blog: Shawn Johnson East 

Tips and tricks for amateur photographers

Training the eye for a successful motif is very important, because it can turn a hobby photographer into an ambitious expert. However, it also takes a certain talent to recognise an intuitive vein, a good motif and to know how best to implement it. At the same time, a photographer needs the right knowledge of image composition, because only the combination of intuition, the training of the eye and comprehensive expert knowledge leads to extraordinary images that get the photographer’s heart pumping. One of the basic technical principles is to choose the best point of view. Most photos are taken at eye level because most people are standing when taking pictures.

There’s nothing wrong with these photos and they look natural. But now and then another position can be even more effective, for example when the photographer kneels or chooses a higher position and shoots the subject more from above. Who has the time to test the position height before the shooting, should take the opportunity calmly, because these changes of the point of view create completely new views. The situation is similar with Negative Space. Photographers understand this as the part of the image that is not the main motif. Its design has a great impact on the subject itself and is therefore important when it comes to good photos. This’empty’ space fixes the viewer’s gaze on the motif. That’s why people like to work with blurriness in empty space instead of with many small details.

the craft of photography

You want to take pictures but don’t know what to look out for? Use your camera and start practicing. In photography there are many important points to watch out for. Jamie shows you in a short clip, the 9most important photography beginners tips. Just black and white photography and working with light, makes your next Instagram profile more beautiful.

Black and white images – contrast is the key

The majority of people love and enjoy the colours of the photos. But black and white photos have their own rules and show their own unique world. That’s why it still exists, even though the technology has been outdated for ages. In addition to the unique beauty that black and white photography can offer, black and white photography also has the advantage that it incredibly trains the eye for lines, structures and image composition. The colour usually draws attention to details or shapes that are unimportant for the composition of the picture. The pure black and white contrast shows more the structures, the negative space and the depths of the image. That’s why a hobby photographer should take a black and white shot of his digital camera and go through nature for a while and, above all, shoot a whole series of portraits. Because not only nature shots gain their uniqueness through the black and white contrast, but also people show their uniqueness in a wonderful way in these pictures.

All photographers love their equipment and like to experiment with it. However, it is precisely in order to train one’s own eyes that amateur photographers should concentrate on one lens for a longer period of time and explore all the possibilities offered to them by this tool. This own limitation ensures that the photographer does not deal with more accessories or aids but with the subject itself and thus tests new perspectives or stylistic devices, which considerably trains the sixth sense of an ambitious photographer.

Fact #1 Requirements for Models

Of course, the cliché is a bit true that all models have to be thin, because except for the curvy models, you should be in shape as a model. But what is important, the so-called hunger models nowadays no agency wants to have more. It is now much more about living healthy, athletic and balanced. As a model you need certain measurements of course. 90-60-90 is not so outdated in the model business. But for the German market models can also be ‘curvier’, which means that a 94 hip or a 65 waist are perfectly adequate. The reason why there are these measurements is only the fact that designers for their shootings or catwalks usually tailor to a certain size, in which the models must then fit.

The problem with the measurements is usually that many of the bone and body structure are not even designed to achieve these dimensions. Therefore, you must not be too strict with the dimensions, because the size is sometimes eclipsed by a beautiful face. Of course, size is very important, but there are also many professional models who are actually too small, but who have such an expressive face that they still work well. So, in summary, it’s all about the mix when it comes to modeling. The measurements should be right within a certain range, the height should not be under 1.71m for women and the face must be convincing. It is also important – model does not mean beautiful. There are many models with an androgynous or special face, which we would not classify at first glance as beautiful, but which still work great as a model!

Fact #2 Model agencies and how do they actually make their money?

Model agencies are the be-all and end-all for aspiring models. They help you find photographers for first test shoots, arrange jobs and organize everything around modeling. But which agencies are good and professional and which should you rather avoid? There are some key data by which you can identify a good agency. A professional agency will never take money from you. Even if this is fixed in the contract, this is not legal. A good model agency will also not tell you that you have to starve yourself or force you to do things you don’t want, for example a haircut, self-tanner or other things.

A good agency will not let you sign a contract with a minimum duration or that states that you are not allowed to work for other agencies. As a professional model it is normal to be represented by several agencies from different countries. So-called ‘exclusivity contracts’ are not legal, because you are self-employed and can be represented in as many agencies as you want. Important, when you apply, you don’t need a big portfolio of you. Simple polaroids are enough. But how do agencies actually earn their money now? That is quite simple, because model agencies mediate you to jobs and get from the customers 20% agency commission of your fee, so to speak, as an agency fee. So if you earn 400.00 Eur net on a job, your agency gets 80.00 Eur from the client. Important, nothing will be deducted from your fee, but the customer pays the commission, not you!

Fact #3 Build Book as New Face

As a NewFace it is important to build up a large extensive book. For this, most test shoots with photographers. In the so-called TfP Shootings, all involved (photographer, visa, model) use the images for their book, but no one has to pay the other. Here it is important that the quality of the pictures is right. So only look for good photographers, or discuss the shootings with your agency beforehand. Shootings with a natural setting, not too much make-up, not too fancy clothes or accessories are best for your book, it should be about you and show you from a good side.

Depending on how professional the photographers are, it may also be that they want money from you for a test. This is only worthwhile with the best, but then it is a good investment in yourself. You have to be careful with photographers who want to take too salacious photos of you or organise the shoot without your agency. If it is a professional photographer, he will have no problem communicating with your agency in advance. If you are on a shoot and the photographer expects something you don’t want, say no, because you don’t have to do everything and beautiful pictures are only taken when you feel comfortable in your own skin.

Day trips – what Tenerife has to offer

Tenerife is very small. You can drive the whole island by car within 3 hours. The tourist harbors are located in the south of the island, just like the airport. There are also many possibilities to go jet skiing for a very reasonable price. In the north, where we also lived, the locals are more at home. Here you can find great traditional food, beautiful white and black beaches and a great old town. The house we stayed in is located about 10 minutes by car from the city of Puerto de la Cruz. There is also the world famous ‘Loro Parcque’ where you can admire many exotic animals. It is like a zoo in principle, but you are immersed in a whole new world and can admire everything from penguins, white lions and dolphins. The park is also famous for its great shows with seals, dolphins and even the huge orcas. Also there I was very often as a child. Another great day trip is in the south of the island. The ‘Siam Park’. A huge terrain on which you can find many waterslides. From wild trips in large rubber tires to an exotic, cozy river on which you can drift, you will find everything here. For all the first time I have a very special recommendation – be sure to buy the Fast Pass. This is a little ribbon with which you can simply pass the rest of the queue on every slide, and I believe it is worth it, because if you are unlucky (especially at the weekend) you stand in the sun for an hour. Also good to know. Be sure to put some cream on it! You underestimate the sun gladly especially if you have fun all day long

Culinary delights in the Canaries

If you want to experience culinary delights with traditional Spanish and Canarian cuisine, you should definitely visit these two restaurants! The first is the ‘La Bodeguita de Enfrente’ in the Ctra Provinvial del Norte 2015 in 38390 Santa ùrsula and secondly the ‘Tito’s Bodeguita’ in the Camino del Durazno 1 in 38400 Puerto de la Cruz! There you will find the best local food from fish over meat and tapas, there is everything the heart desires! Another great tip, especially for breakfast or brunch is the ‘Mesón El Monasterio’. The principle there is unique. It is a very large complex with various restaurants, but all of them belong together. You can have wonderful breakfasts and the special fact, since the restaurant is located in the mountains, you have through an open glass facade a beautiful view of the whole of Puerto de la Cruz and the sea. On the other hand there is also a great restaurant for lunch and dinner. It is very ‘rustic’, but in the charming Canary style. Particularly, it is directly after the restaurant a kind petting zoo. Goats and donkeys are there in an accessible enclosure. Chickens, chicks, ostriches, etc. walk freely on the grounds. So described it sounds very adventurous, however, it is a wonderful atmosphere with great flowers and palm trees fenced. Definitely worth a visit!

The best beaches and real insider tips!

Now, however, to the tips that are decisive for a holiday. Where are the most beautiful beaches? The most famous and beautiful white beach in Tenerife is the ‘Las Teresitas’ located in the north of the island near the city of Santa Cruz. It is a very long white beach, with palm trees and seethrough water. You feel like in the Caribbean. There are also not the usual waves for Tenerife, because the beach is shielded by some stones about 50 m from the beach. There the waves bounce off and the water right on the beach is therefore very quiet and clear. The beach is probably the most famous, so there is always something going on. However, he is never overcrowded. You can lend there already from 2 Eur per day. Now a secret tip. This beach is also located in the north of the island, however, near the town of Puerto de la Cruz. It is the ‘Playa El Bollullo’. To achieve this is something adventurous. You first drive through a road between banana plantations, where only one car can be found. Nevertheless, here is two-way traffic. Once you have made it to the parking lot of the beach, a small walk will take you down the rocks. Once you have reached the bottom, you will find a beautiful black sandy beach, situated between large rocks. There is also a small restaurant where you can buy cold drinks and snacks. Here, you should be careful. The waves here are partly very large. You should not underestimate them! Also a very important tip for this beach and generally black sand beaches. Absolutely shoes or flip flops! After a certain time, the sand is so hot that you burn your foot sole when you walk. If you have enough of sand, I can recommend the saltwater pool in Puerto de la Cruz. It is a very large outdoor pool, with super beautifuly made pools, so that not even the feeling of the normal outdoor pool comes up. The water in the basins is from the sea and therefore salty. Since the swimming pool is directly at the sea is always huge waves in the pool purely. A real spectacle to see. The swimming pool has so many great and extraordinary facts, which tempt you to a visit.

I hope I gave you a little insight into what this beautiful little island has to offer. A visit here is definitely worth it. Also I will be back there in August and visit all the great places I have described here. If you have questions, comments or want even more tips, please write me in the comments. Until next time I wish you a wonderful week!

Yours Iva

day trips – what Tenerife has to offer

Tenerife is very small. One can drive with the car within 3h once around the complete island. The tourist strongholds are in the south of the island, as also the airport. There are also many possibilities to party or to go jet skiing for a very reasonable price. In the north, where we also lived, the locals are more at home. Here you will find great traditional food, beautiful white and black beaches and a great old town. The house we lived in is about 10 minutes by car from the city of Puerto de la Cruz.

Loro Parcque: World famous zoo

Here is also the world famous ‘Loro Parcque’ where you can admire many exotic animals. It’s like a zoo in principle, but here you can dive into a whole new world and admire penguins, white lions and dolphins. The park is also famous for its great shows with seals, dolphins and even the huge orcas. Also there I was very often as a child.

Siam Park: Tip for the day trip

Another great day trip is to the south of the island. The ‘Siam Park’. A huge park with endless water slides. From wild rides in big rubber tires to an exotic and comfortable river on which you can let yourself drift, you will find everything here. For all those who are here for the first time I have a very special recommendation – be sure to buy the Fast Pass. This is a ribbon that allows you to pass the rest of the queue on each slide and believe me, it’s worth it, because if you’re unlucky (especially on weekends) you’ll stand in the sun for an hour or more. Also good to know. Be sure to put some cream on it! One underestimates the sun, especially if one has fun all day long

Culinary delights on the Canaries

If you want to experience culinary delights with traditional Spanish and Canarian cuisine, you should definitely visit these two restaurants! The first is ‘ La Bodeguita de Enfrente’ in the Ctra Provinvial del Norte 2015 in 38390 Santa ùrsula and the second is ‘ Tito’s Bodeguita’ in the Camino del Durazno 1 in 38400 Puerto de la Cruz! There you will find the best local food from fish to meat and tapas, there is everything your heart desires!

Delicious breakfast? My tip: Mesón El Monasterio

Another great tip, especially for breakfast or brunch is the ‘Mesón El Monasterio’. The principle there is unique. It is a very big complex with different restaurants, but they all belong together. One can have a wonderful breakfast there and the special fact is that as the restaurant is located in the mountains, one has a wonderful view to the whole Puerto de La Cruz and to the sea through an open glass front. On the other hand, there is also a great restaurant for lunch and dinner. It is very ‘rustic’ there, but in the charming Canarian way. Especially here is that right next to the restaurant there is a kind of pecker zoo. Goats and donkeys are there in a walk-in enclosure. Chickens, chicks, ostriches etc. run around freely on the area. So described it sounds very adventurous, but there is a wonderful atmosphere with great flowers and palm trees fenced in. In any case it is worth a visit here!

Travel Vlog Tenerife

Christiana Moons made a wonderful Travel Vlog of Tenerife in 2017 – 10 weeks alone in Tenerife:

The best beaches and real insider tips!

But now to the tips that are decisive for a holiday. Where are the most beautiful beaches? The most famous and also most beautiful white beach in Tenerife is ‘Las Teresitas’ which is located in the north of the island near the city of Santa Cruz. It is a very long white beach, with palm trees and crystal clear water. It feels like being in the Caribbean. There you won’t find the huge waves that are usual for Tenerife, because the beach is shielded by some stones about 50 m away from the beach.

beach, waves and the sea

There, the waves bounce off and the water right at the beach is therefore very calm and clear. The beach is probably one of the most famous, so there is always something going on there. But it is never crowded. You can rent sunbeds from 2 Eur per day. Now to an insider tip. This beach is also located in the north of the island but near the city of Puerto de la Cruz. It is the ‘Playa El Bollullo’. To reach this beach is a little bit adventurous. First, one drives through a street between banana plantations where there is only room for one car. Nevertheless, there is traffic on both sides. Once one made it to the parking place of the beach, a little walk down the rocks is waiting for one.

Tip: Beautiful black sand beach

But once you have reached the bottom, a beautiful black sandy beach awaits you, situated between big rocks. Here, there is also a small restaurant where one can buy some cold drinks and little things to eat. But one should be careful here. The waves here are partly very big. One should not underestimate them! Also a very important tip for this beach and generally black sand beaches. It is indispensable to have shoes or flip flops with you! After a certain time the sand is so hot that one burns the sole of one’s foot when walking on it.

XXL Saltwater swimming pool in Puerto de la Cruz

For those who have enough of sand at some time, I can recommend the salt water swimming pool in Puerto de la Cruz. It is a very big outdoor pool, with super beautifuly made pools, so that the feeling of the normal outdoor pool in Germany does not arise at all. The water in the pools is from the sea and therefore salty. Because the pool is directly at the sea, huge waves slosh into the pool again and again. A real spectacle to watch. So the swimming pool has a lot of great and extraordinary facts that tempt you to visit.

I hope I could give you a little insight into what this beautiful little island has to offer. A visit here is worthwhile in any case. I will be there again this year in August and visit all the great places I have described here. If you have any questions, remarks or even more tips, feel free to write them in the comments. Until next time I wish you a wonderful week! If you want to read a travel guide for the beautiful city of Cologne, please have a look at here.

Yours truly, Iva

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