Press
To Moscow in a ‘Fiat 500’ (by Andrés Chavez – EL DIA newspaper, Tenerife)
When Angelo Iannaccone left the Italian town of San Benedetto del Tronto, more than half a century ago, with a “Fiat 500”, to study English in London, no one imagined that in 2011, many years later, he was to try to cover a much longer route thousands of miles away, a journey from Tenerife to Moscow. Of course no one imagined that he would fall in love and get married locally in Puerto de la Cruz, with Marta Martin Ojeda, that they would have children and would be able to organize such important congresses, one that was held a couple of weeks ago in the South of Tenerife, a congress gathering the most important astronauts from USA and RUSSIA who took a major turn in the history of space. For Angelo Iannaccone there is nothing difficult.
It took many years for Angelo to get a classic “Fiat 500”, it was found thanks to the zeal of his friend and my friend, Celio Rodriguez Zarza. Lalo Perez, son of the legendary Manuel Perez, a master of “car electrics” took care of the car from the electrical parts to the engine, the car came out ‘inpeccable’. The car is in Seville and start its voyage for Moscow today, car and pilot with little luggage and 30 days ahead. When he arrives in Barcelona, Angelo will have company, his son Ivan, who will act as co-pilot to reach Milan. From there to Moscow, alone through half of Europe and republics of the former Soviet Union.
In the car, flags and stickers, a very brief and very clear message: Tenerife-Moscow.
2. – Angelo, 68, is making history. The Russian touristic market offers great hope for In Tenerife. Thousands of Russians are coming to the island of Tenerife as tourists and, but above all, to buy luxury items. He is an expert in tourism. His agency organizes international conferences in several countries. His low profile character and great experience make him something very special. He knows the needs and requirements of all different nationalities. With an introduction letter from a famous Russian astronaut in his pocket, this Italian turned-Canarian will arrive in the capital of Russia with a small car built in the 60’s, neatly painted blue. A jewel that will become more valuable when they both return.
3. – The first idea was to get to China, but organizational difficulties made him desist from his efforts. Moscow was closer and was more affordable. We hope he will make it without problem, but just in case, Angelo has taken some spare parts and while in Italy he will make a final check of his car. Lalo Perez will always answer the phone for any questions Angelo may have. The most difficult thing is to find reliable road maps of Russia to make sure he reaches the Red Square with his car safely. When he succeeds, and he will succeed and when he comes back in summer 2011 I will write yet another article, perhaps the most exciting story of his life. Perhaps even more exciting than when he left his native land so many years ago to discover the world.