The Popularity of Tenerife as a Holiday Destination

 

The Popularity of Tenerife as a Holiday Destination

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, has long been a beloved holiday destination for travellers seeking sun, sea, and adventure. Its appeal lies in a unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a variety of activities that cater to all types of visitors.

Year-Round Sunshine

One of the key factors contributing to Tenerife's popularity is its consistently warm climate. With average temperatures hovering around 24°C even in winter, it’s no surprise that millions flock to the island to escape the colder months. The short flight time from the UK—approximately four and a half hours—makes it an easily accessible getaway for sun-seekers.
 

Diverse Attractions

Tenerife offers a diverse range of attractions that go beyond the typical beach holiday. The island is home to Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, which provides breathtaking hiking opportunities and stunning views. Nature lovers can explore the lush forests and volcanic landscapes, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy the tranquil beaches that line the coast.
 

Rich Culture and History

The island's rich cultural heritage adds to its charm. Visitors can explore historic towns like Santa Cruz and La Laguna, where traditional architecture and local cuisine thrive. The vibrant nightlife, with its array of bars and clubs, ensures that the fun continues well into the night.
 

Affordable Options

Tenerife is also known for its affordability. With numerous package deals available, including all-inclusive options that can start as low as £250 for a week, it attracts budget-conscious travellers. The island's competitive pricing for accommodation and activities makes it an appealing choice for families and groups.
 

Growing Concerns

Despite its popularity, Tenerife faces challenges related to overtourism. Recent protests by locals highlight concerns about the impact of mass tourism on the island's infrastructure and housing market. However, the regional tourism authorities continue to promote Tenerife as a safe and welcoming destination, assuring visitors that they can still enjoy their holidays without issues.
 

Conclusion

In summary, Tenerife's allure as a holiday destination is undeniable. Its combination of beautiful weather, diverse attractions, rich culture, and affordability make it a top choice for millions of tourists each year. As the island continues to evolve, it remains a captivating place for those looking to unwind and explore in a stunning setting.

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Citations:
[1] https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/spain/canary-islands/tenerife/tenerife-holiday-without-crowds-canary-islands/
[2] https://tenerifepropertygroup.com/how-has-tenerife-tourism-changed-its-image-over-the-years/
[3] https://www.arrivalguides.com/en/Travelguide/Teneriffe/barsandnightlife/casinos-107689
[4] https://www.mirror.co.uk/travel/europe/brits-defy-tenerife-locals-warnings-32774513
[5] https://www.travelgossip.co.uk/latestnews/should-brits-still-holiday-in-the-canary-islands/
[6] https://www.wingedboots.co.uk/magazine/8-reasons-why-tenerife-is-a-world-class-holiday-destination/
[7] https://buzztrips.co.uk/posts/a-different-look-at-the-problems-with-tourism-on-tenerife/
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskUK/comments/whqpk3/why_are_so_many_brits_on_tenerife/

 

 

Fishing in Tenerife

 

Fishing spots are in theory, in the most secluded places. In most cases the fishermen can be seen packed like sardines in the hot spots of Palm Mar and Playa San Juan.
If you walk along any coastal path you will find anglers, carrying out their pastime perched precarious above the waves on the not too comfortable weed covered rocks and gullies that form rock pools when the tide is out. How they manage to get to some of the spots is a feat in itself before they even cast a rod. You can see them below the Barcelo Santiago and beside Crab Island in Los Gigantes. It makes no difference if the sea is calm or the waves are crashing like cymbals, they will be there on an isolated rocky outcrop or the rugged stony shoreline that rises up to the jagged cliffs knowing there will be fish eating, hiding from predators and keeping out of the worst of the tidal flow among the nooks and crannies.

A couple of relatively isolated beaches that are worth seeking out are Diego Hernandez, a small beach about two hundred meters long, with calm waters and almost entirely composed of white volcanic sand. It is located between La Caleta and El Puertito and typically is for insiders – no more than around a dozen people at any one time visit the beach in a day.

Many people fish by the harbour in El Medano and Puerto Colon – harbours bring relatively deep water within easy reach of the shore and there’s often plenty of sport to be had just by dropping your line into these spots. Many anglers got their first taste of sea fishing from a jetty and it’s not difficult to see why it has such a special place in their hearts.
If you know where to look in Los Cristianos they can be found but in general are hidden from the tourists eye. More obvious are those who claim you can catch sharks from the shore at Las Americas. Fishing from the beach – especially when it’s an attractive one, has an appeal all of its own and can often be what first lures newcomers to sea angling.
The Shirley Valentine Beach once here there is nothing but a few fishing boats out on the horizon and the lapping of the Atlantic to disturb the peace. Perhaps fishing as a new hobby is to be seriously considered.

Of course, many still fish without a permit and if you are prepared to take the risk keep an eye on the Spanish – they pack up and leave as soon as they see the first signs of the law. Police checks are made on occasions and they can, if so minded, confiscate your fishing equipment as well as your catch. If you are really unlucky, you could end up with a fine of 300 Euro.
The Blue Marlin, the Needle Fish, the Atlantic Tuna, the Barracuda and the White Tuna. All of them carry on insisting that we don’t breathe a word to anyone about how well they live in the sea off Tenerife.

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Location! Is Tenerife really Paradise on Earth?

 

 

When you decide to buy a property, takes a completely different perspective than choosing a holiday destination. Everyone has their favourite holiday places but many of these have been overtaken by more appealing places or have grown into noisy haunts of the younger tourists.

Tenerife is changing into a new breed of long-term holiday destination or retirement leisure location for the Europeans and fellow northern Europe sunseeker. The tourist business in Tenerife has changed with far more visitors now coming form mainland Spain, with more British now long term residents or “swallows”.

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Tenerife may be best known for its sun, sandy beaches and sangria, but beyond its seaside resorts and lively cities there is a natural paradise many travellers never discover. Dramatic seasonal changes affect Parque Nacional del Teide. It is one of the top bird-watching areas in Europe. In winter, the low-lying areas fill with water and attract millions of birds from across Europe.

The property market in the Tenerife has changed radically in recent years, as buyers have become more sophisticated and informed, whilst technology ever advances to meet the demands of the modern world now connected and served by the Internet.

Many people just want stable, established, advanced state of development and a location close to northern Europe with affordability – and its right here in Tenerife!

This year’s winter has delivered a few more days of rain or cloudy weather – but actually not too bad. Each of the spells of poor weather have lasted a few days and have been followed by fresh and sunny days lasting much longer. Wonderful.

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Settled residents of these Islands do sometimes need to return to their home country to see how they really feel about Tenerife? Simply, it is the most consistently attractive and welcoming place within reach of the north European visitor, settler and worker. It has such good weather, peace and order, a fascinating pot-pourri of culture and a great variety of scenery and property for sale.

It is here for all to enjoy. Explore, find your favourite places and share the secrets with friends. Buy the best property you can afford and make the most of your place in the sun.

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Canary Islands Essential Information

 

 

 Canary Islands Currency

The currency of the Canary Islands is the Euro which Spain adopted on the 1st January 1999.

Banks

The banks in the Canary Islands are generally open weekdays between 9 am and 2 pm and also on Saturdays, but it is worth noting that on Saturdays during the peak season (June – October) they can  close one hour earlier.

Many travel agents, hotels and car rental offices and exchange offices, otherwise known as “Cambio” will change money for you but it is well worth comparing the commission charge and exchange rate as these as these can vary quite considerably.

As with many things you tend to pay a higher amount for convenience. and the same applies in the Canary Islands, so you will generally find that the best rates are available from the banks.

Make sure you have your passport available when exchanging currency as this will almost certainly be required.

Credit Cards

Credit cards and debit cards are also another way of accessing your funds from abroad and this can be very flexible as you’ll be able to access your cash anywhere there is a suitable ATM available.

Canary Islands exchange rates are dictated by the banks so this method can offer some of the best exchange rates. You will however be charged ATM charges so it would be best to make planned withdrawals as opposed to many small withdrawals.

Also check when any interest will be charged if using a credit card as many credit card companies will charge interest from day one on cash advances.

Medical and Travel Insurance

Your highly unlikely to be exposed to any tropical diseases when visiting the Canary Islands but all the same you need to be aware of the basics.

The worse problems that most people will experience will tend to be restricted to sunburn from to much unprotected exposure (so make sure you come armed with some good suncream), Dehydration (make sure you drink plenty of water) and insect bites.

On the Canary Islands you will be able to find many English speaking Doctors, and if you are unfortunate enough to have a tooth ache whilst on holiday, Dentists as well.Just ask you local travel representative or your hotel reception and they will be able to point you in the right direction.

The Canary Islands also have many local chemists (Farmacia) on the Islands and you will be able to identify these by the green cross sign outside their premises.

Many people travel without adequate health insurance but if you have ever been unfortunate enough to need emergency medical care or repatriation you will understand that the risk is quite simply not worth taking.

Medical insurance is a personal choice, and even though EU citizens can obtain a refund of most medical costs by using form E111 (available from Health Offices in your country many practises are private.

Electricity Supply

The electricity supply in the Canary Islands is rated at 220 volts AC/ 50 Hz, but unlike the UK the Canary Islands favour the European standard plug which has two round pins.

If you are planning to bring electrical appliances on your holiday be sure to bring a two pin adaptor but if you forget you should be able to purchase one from one of the local shops.

Occasionally power cuts do happen in the Canary Islands so it is always a good idea to bring along a small torch as well. This can also be useful if you need to walk along any unlit paths when going out in the evenings.

So Much More To Tenerife Than Beaches

 

It is understandable why so many people perceive Tenerife as being a favourite Spanish package holiday destination. However, I visited this diverse destination recently and I realised that the island offers so much more than that. In fact, 

Tenerife is very boutique, stylish, and hip. An entirely new island has started to emerge in recent years and the attractions, sights, and landscape will definitely entice you to want to pay closer attention to it.

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For example, most people probably don’t know that Teide National Park, which is one of the most rugged landscapes of Tenerife, was used by Bradley Wiggins, four time Olympic gold medal winner and Tour de France legend, as an important part of his Tour de France preparations and training programme. 

Other renowned sporting legends have used Tenerife as their training destination as well, including leading Spanish volleyball players, Gavira and Herrera, rower Paul Goodison, and cyclist Lance Armstrong.

Tenerfie is less than 200 miles from Africa, which is a lot closer than Spain, and is one of the few destinations that are within a 4 hour flight to the UK that guarantees year-round sunshine (or at least 300 days worth), which for a sun lover like me is perfect!

In addition, there many 5 and 4 star accommodations to select from, which is the ideal base from which to discover fascinating culture and history, great wines, and delicious food that are all part of this idyllic island escape. 

Costa Adeje is where we stayed, which is just 20 minutes from the South airport of the island – which I definitely recommend since it is quite convenient and there’s lots to do for the entire family. There are also many remote beaches that are away from the hot spots for tourists that are spread out across the island. 

 

 

A good tip is to a few locals for recommendations. When you venture out away from the beaches there are many stunning landscapes to enjoy, along with historic towns and small towns that reflect traditional Canarian life that over the years have not changed much.

I definitely recommend that you hire a car to get the most out of your island experience. Santa Cruz is located about 45 minutes away from Tenerife South airport, which is the capital city of Tenerife. 

For shopping that has a distinct cosmopolitan character, take a walk down the “ramblas,” and then head west to the town of La Laguna which is home to a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site in its historic centre. 

You will find many amazing Canarian mansion houses that are lined along quaint cobble streets, with plenty of designer boutiques for deal hunters and art galleries to browse through. 

If you would like to enjoy a picturesque country adventure, head north-west to the “Isla Baja” region, which is the perfect place for outdoor activities. The towns there have retained the richness and traditional flavour of its local architecture and scenery is amazing. 

If you are searching fro something that is a bit more lively, North of Tenerife is Puerto de la Cruz, which is a cosmopolitan and lively town that has an excellent rage of hotels that are perfect for shopping and strolling around.

You can try out the cable car ride that traverses up Mount Teide if you are feeling adventurous, which is surrounding by intense volcanic colours and distinct rock formations. 

People who are braver souls than I am can go forth on foot for a 4 to 6 hour walk. However, there are less rigorous trails which reveal a very rich historic legacy and natural beauty, strolling among spectacular vistas, woodland paths, and ancient watercourses.

When you are ready to eat make sure to try out traditional Canarian cuisine, especially the fresh grilled fish, which is absolutely delicious. The vast coastline that surrounds the island features abundant marine life, that regularly appears on the traditional restaurant menus. 

 

 

If you are searching for Michelin stars, you will find the “MB” restaurant in Tenerife, which is located at Abama Golf & Spa, which is a world-renowned luxury resort. In recent years, fine dining has taken off, with a number of Spanish chefs demonstrating their culinary talents to both travellers and locals.

The island has eight outstanding courses for golf enthusiasts, which all have their own distinct character and are very different from one another. Buenavista Golf course is located near the Vincci Buenavista Golf and Spa hotel in Isla Baja, is a golfer’s paradise, but you will need a steady hand to navigate around the lake and waterfall. 

If you would prefer to be around hot stones instead of 18 holes of golf, there are numerous luxury hotel spas located on the island that have volcanic themed treatments that offer the ultimate in rejuvenation and relaxation. 

If you have children, you might not be aware that Tenerife is actually the island that has the most theme parks. 

From roller coasters to zoos to water parks there is guaranteed to be plenty of fun and options for you to choose from that helps to keep your kids entertained.

It is definitely true that you want to explore a bit further then there is plenty more to discover than what first meets the eye on this enchanting island.

Find out more at Tenerife Forum.

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10 Little Known Facts About Tenerife

Tenerife attracts many tourists from all over the world, eager to enjoy its pristine beaches and year-round sunshine. Perhaps you've already discovered its beautiful, volcanic shores, and have become a frequent visitor. If not, here are 10 facts about Tenerife that you probably didn't know, and might just convince you to make it your next vacation destination.

Las Vistas

1. Being the largest of all the Canary Islands, you'll have access to an enormous number of outstanding resorts, sand beaches, and hotels that will surpass all your expectations.

2. Tenerife shares the same flag with Scotland. However, its nearly 365 days of blue skies guarantee that it doesn't have the same climate.

3. The popular film, "Clash of the Titans," was filmed in Teide National Park.

4. Mount Teide, the most obvious landmark of Teide National Park, is the third largest volcano in the world.

5. You won't have any difficulty finding a place to lay your towel on the 1.2 miles of pristine, natural sand that comprises El Médano, Tenerife's longest beach.

6. William Shakespeare so enjoyed Tenerife's home-grown wine that he actually made reference to it in two of his plays. He also negotiated as part of his annual salary, to receive a barrel of Malmsey wine.

7. Mount Teide, is widely credited with casting the world's largest sea shadow. Talk about impressive!

8. Tenerife's Siam Park, Europe's largest water park, boasts 7 world records including the world's biggest man-made wave and the largest Thai building in the world outside of Asia. It also received recognition by TripAdvisor as the best water park in the world in 2015.

9. Miami-Dade County, located on the very southernmost tip of Florida, is Tenerife's "sister community."

10. Finally, though more of a myth buster than a fact, the black sand beaches that Tenerife is most famous for, are not dirty as many believe. It's simply the color of the fine, volcanic sand found in the area. You won't walk on the beach and end up with black-stained feet.

So what are you waiting for? Finalize your vacation itinerary to visit Tenerife over your next holiday. You'll never regret it!

Visit the Tenerife Forum site for more information, or if you're on Facebook, Like our page to receive daily updates.

 

Tenerife: The Island of Eternal Spring

In a bygone era when the expressionless face of a doctor would proudly announce that, “A dose of sunshine is what is needed to remedy your affliction”, and sent you packing to the island of Tenerife, little did he know how popular this little island would become for that very sunshine he prescribed and how it would grow to become one of the most popular tourist islands in today’s world.

 

Unfortunately, due to the hedonistic club scene fuelled by alcohol and yet more alcohol, it quickly earned the nickname Tene –grief, but the island has been undergoing a transformation and now, the island of Eternal Spring is better known as a world class destination boasting beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, top quality restaurants, amazing nightlife and everything else a visitor could wish for in terms of activities and pleasures.

So why not join me on a short trip around the island and experience some of its delights?
With Tenerife being less than 800 square miles, it’s astonishing that it has 12 micro climates in different areas within short drives of one another.
In colder months, snow can cause road closures, while a short drive away, visitors sunbathe on sandy beaches.
Another contrast is that although the Mercedes Mountains are cloaked in lichen and moss, the black rivers consisting of petrified lava find their way through the seemingly lifeless body of desert known as Las Cañadas, located at the centre of the island.

Resorts, Towns & Villages

The tourist resorts of Los Cristianos, Las Americas and Costa Adeje are the main resorts in the south of the island and still have evidence of the banana plantations that once existed pre-tourism days.

 

Near these three main resorts in the south, there are numerous towns and villages filled with charm such as Los Abrigos which is the embodiment of the typical Canarian fishing harbour where the daily catch is sold directly to the quayside restaurants. Or there is the windsurfer’s paradise called El Medano with its golden sandy beach and perfect coastal wind that makes it such a haven for water sports.

 

Another sport that thrives on the island owing to the perfect year round weather is the game of golf. For this reason you have the resorts of Golf del Sur and Amarilla Golf which are purpose built around professionally built and manicured golf courses. The resorts are very much self-contained and come complete with bars, restaurants and all kinds of entertainment venues.

On the west coast, you can find Los Gigantes which is famous for its giant cliffs and are usually better when viewed from the ocean to experience their sheer size and is also close to the village of Masca which is a hikers dream. Perched on mountainous ridges, visitors flock to admire the beauty of this village. It’s the closest you’ll get to Shangri-La on this side of the Atlantic. There are some excellent excursions available so why not take a look at what's on offer.

 

The resort of Puerto de la Cruz in the north was the first and original resort on the island until the south became a permanent fixture. Its flora and fauna are a welcome change from its dry and arid looking sisters in the south. The harbour houses old cannons which once guarded against ruthless invaders who were quickly sent on their way.
Garachico offers even more history with its colonial styled mansions which are surrounded by narrow cobbled streets. During the last volcanic eruption in 1909, it received the last of the lava flow from Teide which adds more to the adventure of exploring this little town.

Other Places to Visit

Known as the third largest volcano in the world, Mount Teide dominates the island and is the dividing line between north and south. During winter months, it is snow covered and as you descend from the volcano, the landscape reveals itself in all its glory, from the lunar type scenery at the summit that was used in Clash of the Titans, to the delightful vineyards of La Orotava.

Santa Cruz

I couldn’t complete this article without mentioning the capital of the island, Santa Cruz. Once a drab and weary looking place, it has now become a cosmopolitan, bustling and chic place to visit. It is also home to one of the biggest carnivals in the world and has now become a very popular port of call for many cruise liners. With its many galleries, museums, cafes and shopping centres, it makes the perfect trip.

About the author

Peter runs Tenerife Forum and is convinced he has found his very own Shangri-La on the island of Tenerife.
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