Canary Islands in Spain

The Canary islands or Islas Canarias consists of an island group just off the African coast that was once believed to mark the limit of the western world. These islands (they include Tenerife, Lanzarote etc) are volcanic based - as may be seen from the dark rocks, and ancient volcanic features. They are about 1400km from mainland Spain and are Spanish controlled. The islands have a distinctive character and a booming tourist trade - here it is warm all year around and there is the possibility of bathing in warm, clear seawaters on Christmas day, while thinking of relatives at home defrosting their windscreens.

They have developed as year-round resort islands, with plenty of well-serviced beaches overlooked by seafront hotels. The visitor will find plenty of activities from beach events to night clubbing. Many of the bars along the sea fronts are owned and managed by Irish and British people who came on holiday and liked it so much that they stayed. Visitors can expect to find everything from McDonalds to Cowboy themed events (complete with cowboys, beans and bacon). The islands are also famed for their duty free shopping although it must be said, that visitors should not be taken in by bargains that are too good to be true. Some shops show electronic goods in their windows with amazing low prices- however this is just to tempt the shopper for the actual camera accessories like batteries, cables, lens, carrying bag are added extras that significantly add to the initial price. That said, the goods probably would be cheaper than the equivalent item at home. Kids are also well catered for. Hotels organize kids clubs, family friendly cabarets and pools will have a children only section.

The islands volcanic origins may be seen in such places as La Cueva de los Verdes on the island of Lanzarote, which forms part of a spectacular chain of underground tunnels. The same island features underground chambers that have been transformed into concert halls. You may also enjoy watching guides throw water into rock crevices that produce mini geysers moments later.

The islands volcanic soil combined with climate ensure that unusual and rare plants grow.


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