While in other parts of the globe cities are built within a few hours, in the town of Sardina del Norte speed does not exceed the rhythm of the waves reaching the harbour. Sardina is an enclave in northern Gran Canaria, away from the great golden sand beaches in the south. It does not appear much in tourist brochures, and neither does it seem too keen in becoming known.
In other parts of the world, artificial islands are raised with a hundred thousand tons of sand, while in Sardina del Norte the only artificial thing is a television set hanging from the ceiling at a harbour restaurant. The topic of conversation on the street cafés is certainly not the evolution of the stock market. No limos there. The real luxury is the fish served at the bars down the hill that leads to the beach.
There are no millionaires with lavish yachts on the piers of Sardina del Norte. But if millions are an issue to you, you will find them below the sea. Millions of fishes, of all species. The sea bottom in this practically unknown part of Gran Canaria is one of the richest in the islands. A multi-millionaire sea bottom, which explains the many divers from all parts of the island who gather here every weekend.
You will not catch any diver or fisherman discussing stock options or variable income in Sardina del Norte. Neither is there a discussion group on the Dow Jones. Why on earth should there be one? All that would only get in the way when you have such a sunset entering through your window, with a full ocean sleeping almost at the foot of the bed.
Perhaps this is the reason why so many locals prefer to speak using as few words as possible. Even seagulls express only what is necessary in Sardina. In keeping with that tradition, we will say no more. Well, just how to find the spot. The road will be marked as soon as you reach Gáldar, in the north of the island. Take a detour and drive through banana plantations, greenhouses, and groups of houses around a small road splashed with some palm trees. The port of Sardina lies there, at the end of that road.
And remember. If you own a jet, save the boasting. Locals will simply pay no attention. Better to boast about the catch of the day. You know, while in other parts of the globe they are determined to build skyscrapers the size of mountains, others on the opposite end just wish to be left alone, with the sea as neighbour. For in the end, as the saying goes, the centre of the world is right where you want to put it.
