Meet the GC Locals No 8: Anthony Blandford

Is Gran Canaria your designated place in the sun? Somewhere you’d like to make a new life in? If so, you’re sure to be interested in our latest Gran Canaria Locals interview, with Anthony Blandford.

1. ¡Hola, Anthony! Where are you based on Gran Canaria and what attracted you to this particular area?

I’m based in the south of Gran Canaria, close to Maspalomas. The location is great as you are very near to some of the best beaches on the island and there’s always something to do day or night. There’s a good mix of locals, expats and people on their holidays which creates a pleasant atmosphere.

2. What tips would you give people relocating to the island?

Be adventurous, explore, and try everything! There are so many hidden gems a little off the beaten track if you’re prepared to put in the extra mileage. I’ve been on Gran Canaria for over three years now and I’m still discovering fascinating new places all the time.

A few months back I found a fantastic beach that’s only accessible by foot and requires you to climb down a steep cliff to get there, but it’s well worth the effort as you have the place to yourself most of the time. Or just recently I ate in an old vineyard that’s been partially converted into a restaurant, and the risotto was the best I’ve ever tasted. There’s so much more to see and do than just the obvious but it’s not going to come and find you!

3. If you were to liken Gran Canaria to an ice cream, which one would you compare it to and why?

It has to be gofio ice cream. I’m struggling to come up with a witty reason why that hasn’t already been said but it’s a uniquely Canarian flavour. So, I’ll leave it to the people reading to fill in the blanks…

4. What are some of your favourite island hobbies?

Well, of course I wouldn’t be living here if I wasn’t a big fan of the beaches of. Las Canteras, Playa del Inglés, Pasito Blanco, and Anfi are my favourites. Around the centre of the island, close to Roque Nublo and Pico de las Nieves, there are some great hiking trails and, on a clear day, the views are really spectacular.

Some of my other preferred Gran Canaria pastimes are tapas and wine of a Thursday night in the capital’s Vegueta. Then there’s watching films at the Moonlight Cinema in Meloneras. And I can’t end this answer without mentioning football with CD Tablero.

5. Finally, Anthony, what do you do workwise on Gran Canaria?

I’m a personal trainer and I run bootcamps for men and women of all ages, sizes, shapes and fitness abilities. You get to meet some really interesting people from all over the world. The warm weather is a real motivator and I try to work outdoors as much as possible to take advantage of Gran Canaria’s fantastic natural surroundings.

Were you raised on Gran Canaria? Or have you gone local on the island like us? If so and you’re keen to participate in this series, drop us a line.