Lanzarote's Branding Success:

Lanzarote's mixture of cohesive architecture and Cesar Manrique-inspired features give the island an identity. It has used design and art to brand itself in a way that the other Canary Islands haven't managed. Even the local wine in Lanzarote (Yaiza, Bermejo) comes in elegant and original bottles.

I can't think of another place where one artist has had such a huge impact and maybe Manrique is a one-off. However, Lanzarote's successful branding is an example that the other Canary Islands and their resorts need to study and emulate.

In Gran Canaria our resorts, with the notable exception of Puerto de Mogan, have grown over time and with little though to their overall appearance. Most hotel, bungalow and apartment complexes were designed as if there were to float in space. All our signs and lamposts are standard issue and little is original. The final effect is that our resorts are own white label rather than premium brand.

With the current plans to develop the area between Meloneras and Arguineguín and add new tourist areas in other parts of the island this lack of a Gran Canaria "feel" is something that needs to be addressed. 

There are plenty of talented local artists and designers on the island. How about a competition to come up with ideas that give our future resorts an identity? It would get everybody thinking about the future and foster the communal spirit the island needs.