Wendy’s Tenerife diary: "We're starting to get a little more freedom"

Royton-born Wendy Muldowney

Here, exclusive to the Chronicle, she offers an insight into life in Los Gigantes, during a tough lockdown.

She says: “After more then eight weeks,  we are starting to get a little more freedom of movement other than going to the supermarket or chemist . Everything else was shut . 

“The Spanish government explained that there would be various phases to the coming out of the lockdown.

“After being in phase 0 for two weeks, we entered into phase 1 last Monday , which  means we have the ability to visit a few more shops while respecting at all times the social distancing laws and by making appointments beforehand. The big shopping centres or warehouse type shops  still aren’t open.

“I have two small dogs that needed a trim before the lockdown -  now they look like walking sheepskin rugs. The doggie  parlours are open and  I went on the first day to make an appointment  to be told nd the first one available was four weeks away.

“The same for my hair . I look like I’m about 80 years old with all my grey coming through. o I definitely have lockdown locks so that will have to be sorted soon as hairdressing salons are now open under appointment only system.

“We also have the possibility of meeting family and friends . We could even go to a bar or restaurant terrace at 50 per cent occupancy providing we make a reservation first and the group isn’t more than 10 people . 

“So that’s a bonus . Although saying that , I am thoroughly enjoying cooking and have enjoyed watching various local people doing cooking demonstrations on the Internet . Very tasty and enjoyable.”

She went on: “The hardware stores have opened as a matter of urgency / professional use . I managed to buy loads of paint to decorate . This in itself has been full of trials and tribulations . Slowly but surely I am getting there . Had I still been working at the hotel, there was no way I would find time to cook , decorate , chuck out old stuff from my house . So it’s a good thing I’m not working.

“Here in Spain we have something similar to a furlough. It’s called ERTE . This entitles me to keep my job and receive 70 per cent of my wages during the state of alarm (lockdown) .  

“The Spanish president is looking to hopefully extend the lockdown till the end of June While still slowly going through the phases until we get to having a normal life again (or at least to a better standard than now). Obviously this will be for the benefit of our health and safety...so bring it on.
 
“It will be hard if the extension is accepted, especially for the children and elderly . Although they too now are allowed out for one hour a day at certain times to exercise/get some fresh air . Over here, the majority of houses don’t have gardens, possibly only small balconies.”
  
She added: “Police presence is still seen as they check how many people are in cars and,  if you are actually out with a purpose,  you have a receipt to show proof of purchase. 

‘If we behave, do as we are told and abide by the royal decree, then hopefully we will be able to get out and about properly soon. 

“Remembering of course, to wash your hands, use PPE mask and gloves and respect our families, neighbours, friends that live alone...

“So take care everyone, stay safe and hopefully see you all on the other side.”