Roqueta 349
May 2021

Hello one and all to the May edition of ROQUETA.

It isn’t as easy collecting the content and articles for each edition as it is normally. Blame Covid of course.

Certainly, Spain and the UK seem to be taking very different pathways at the moment in delivering the jabs. Let’s hope sufficient steps at both ends as far as Menorca is concerned mean we get the green lights so that we have a strong summer season, albeit a little later than normal.

The big revelation is the number of new restaurants that are opening this year. And they look very promising with innovative menus to broaden the often-same styles of yesteryear. It seems we have some highly imaginative entrepreneurs and chefs out there, so let’s make sure we support them.

One of the biggest casualties of the pandemic seem to be all the local groups that normally meet regularly and are well attended. Or rather that they can’t at the moment. I know that we all enjoy the regular socialising that goes with the activity, the friendships that are shared, but also the huge amount of good works and monies that are raised for local charities. Fingers crossed that we are beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel, and we can all start meeting up again.

April has been unusually unsettled re the Menorcan weather this April, whereas in the UK they have been enjoying a sunny start to spring. One thing for sure however is that those in Menorca will need to be cleaning out the swimming pools, getting the fans out and complaining about the day after day of gorgeous heat. In the UK, most people will by then probably be wishing for just a few rays of sunshine and a trip to our golden Isle.

The social media sites that focus on Spain and Menorca have been hot discussing how anyone who wants to live here can do this legally. We carry two articles that may help enlighten the pathway, but even if you are already legally sorted out, Brexit and the administration heavy Spanish authorities make the red tape often awkward, ongoing and time consuming to navigate.

The advice given in the articles is seek professional advice always and be polite and patient. Don’t bury your head in the sand as if you get caught without the required documentation you can face a heavy fine or even get sent back to your country of your passport. Not worth it. And the weather isn’t so good yet so you are not missing out on anything waiting in line in the offices of the authority in question.

Plus, if you don’t already, start to either learn or brush up your Spanish speaking abilities. It does make a huge difference, and we know of plenty of help out there. Look out for the adverts in the magazine. And remember you are never too old or hopeless at languages, and if you join a small group, you can add it to your weekly activities and make new friends.

The lack of visitors has meant that nature has been able to take a breather, so the countryside and sea will be gleaming with freshness. Remember when you do visit to help keep it so by clearing up after any visits.

We make no apology for being a little wine and food heavy this month. We have some delicious and varied recipes and a really interesting article on Spanish white wines. Most only think of heavy Rioja red wines, so take this magazine with you on your next wine shop or restaurant visit and be enlightened by what delicious white Spanish wines await you.

Lastly from Angie and myself, stay safe, and follow the rules that are set out for good reasons. We are not far away now from hopefully saying goodbye or at least au revoir to this dreadful time we have all had to endure.