A Top Vacation Destinations
Believe it, for it’s absolutely possible. Well, not really to the moon, but a moon-like landscape with amazing craters that dots the lands as you explore the islands. And it’s not just barren craters, but a chance to see different plants and flowers as you walk through lush, green forests. For the adventurous and sporty tourists, they can use quad bikes to travel the large sand dunes of the islands’ deserts. Your Canary Islands holidays may end at the top of a mountain, marveling at the stars above.
Scientists believe that the Canary Islands were formed millions of years ago. The Canary Islands’ mountains and volcanoes were product of the collisions between moving Earth crusts. You will see all these moon-like landscapes when you’re on your Canary Islands holidays. Small volcanic activities sometimes occur on the islands, reminder of its more violent past. Archeologists discovered that Guanches, people from the northeast part of Africa, came to the islands about 3,000 BC ago. These first inhabitants were most likely the people that the Romans saw in 40 BC.
There are seven main islands comprising the Canaries. Each of the capital cities of the islands of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife are also the canaries’ capital cities. The island of Tenerife is perfect for vacationers who love water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Gran Canaria island is dotted with magnificent woodlands and stretches of beautiful beaches. But Gran Canaria is also known for its dramatic volcanic craters, huge desert dunes, steep mountain peaks and a lot more. Your Canary Islands holidays will be memorable enough if you were to visit these two islands only, but of course, the other islands have other things to offer.
Amazing pristine white beaches, rich cultural and historical sites, diverse landscape, and lively festivals are not just what Canary Islands holidays is all about, there are a lot more. For example, did you know that the famous Spanish film director Pedro Almodvar chose the island of Lanzarote as the natural set for his film “Broken Embraces”? Pedro Almodvar, the famed Spanish film director, used the island of Lanzarote as his backdrop for his film “Broken Embraces”. There’s that so called “whistling language”, communicating through whistling, that is unique to the island. The UNESCO recognized the islands as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Canaries is also credited as the world pioneer in making sea water drinkable.
Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra once sang “fly me to the moon, let me sing among those stars…” while probably dreaming of Canary Islands holidays. You can also ask where else best to sing that song than on the Canaries. Arguably, the popularity of this song is surpassed only by the popularity of Canary Islands holidays. This high mountain peak is a romantic getaway for people who wants to have the clearest view of the stars at night.
The Canary Islands holidays is one holiday that you can enjoy with the whole family.
Tags: Beaches, canaries, canary islands, canary islands holidays, countries, destinations, getaways, holidays, islands, locations, Spain, Tourism, travel, Vacations, Vacations Spain
July 15, 2010
Hot Volcanic Holidays On Lanzarote
There are numerous holiday destinations around the world that were once borne from volcanic eruptions many of which are now dormant, but many more are still fairly active for example New Zealand or even Hawaii. But this fact hasn’t stopped the onslaught of tourism around the world or even in Europe for that matter for example Lanzarote.
Films and TV series shot on location on Lanzarote and around the other Canary Islands include:
- Broken Embraces
- One Million Years BC
- Los abrazos rotos
- Journey to the centre of the earth
Visitors today can rest easy though as none of the 300 plus volcanoes here are still active. In fact this whole region is now the most visited attraction on Lanzarote. But this unique island has much more to offer than just lava fields and spent peaks alone. As there are loads of beautiful beaches and fascinating spots to tour and explore.
Lanzarote Villas - Hotels And Apartments. Lanzarote without doubt cannot be criticised for a lack of holiday accommodation as there is a whole variety to suit any budget, the question to ponder however is which is the best resort to be staying in?
Whichever resort you choose whether the main two (Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen) or even Costa Teguise do a little research first to get the most from your break.
The third largest resort of Costa Teguise is located to the north of Arrecife airport on the south east coastline. It was created around 35 years ago with the help of C?sar Manrique, a popular local artist who had a hand in the creation of many of Lanzarote?s best known attractions too. He developed plans for an upmarket resort which is still anchored today by the five star Gran Melia Salinas hotel. Which is still one of the best hotels in Lanzarote and where guests can view some of his original canvasses adorning the walls of the public spaces.
As well as great weather all year round visitors will also find that there is a lot to do and see on the island, which helps to contribute to Lanzarote?s popularity as a holiday destination. Such as the many creations of the local artist C?sar Manrique – who developed visitor attractions such as the Cactus Garden and the Green Caves. Along with many natural wonders such as the Valley of 1000 Palms and the majestic sight of the Timanfaya Volcano Park.
Holidays in Lanzarote
Tags: canary islands, destinations, Lanzarote, Spain, travel
June 24, 2010
Holidays In Playa Blanca
The Canary Island of Lanzarote is a popular destination for tourists and home to a number of holiday resorts. But only Playa Blanca, which is situated at the far southern end of the island, can boast great weather all year round thanks to its great microclimate, as well as some of the best beaches on Lanzarote.
Playa Blanca was developed long after its resort rivals to the north. And until as recently as the 1980?s was still just a small fishing port and ferry harbour. From where boasts crossed the Bocaina Straits to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura. However its twin natural advantages of great weather and excellent beaches made it an obvious spot for tourist development. And throughout the 1990?s work commenced and a swathe of new hotels and villa developments were created.
Geographically Playa Blanca is basically made up of three small bays set within one much larger cove – providing plenty of shelter from the wind. And visitors can enjoy a stroll along the seafront from one end of the resort to the other. Thanks to the fact that it is united by a promenade that runs from the Faro de Pechuguera lighthouse through to the outer reaches of Papagayo.
Holiday villas in Playa Blanca have become increasingly popular every year with tourists and independent travellers seeking good value rental accommodation on the island. Especially during the winter months when the weather here is better than on the rest of the island. Many of the winter visitors tend to stay for longer periods or even the entire winter as well as short breaks.
Holiday villas in Playa Blanca also offer great value for money in relation to comparable rental properties in other resorts. And also come equipped with plenty of luxury extras such as hot tubs, satellite TV?s and high speed internet connections.
For guests who are able to tear themselves way from the pool the resort is home to some spectacular stretches of sand. Such as Playa Dorada, Playa Flamingo and the small town beach of Playa Blanca – from which this destination takes its name. And the breathtaking coves and bays of Papagayo – regarded as one of the best beaches in the Canaries – are just a fifteen minute stroll away. There?s a great selection of restaurants for visitors and Playa Blanca is also ideally located for anyone keen to visit Lanzarote?s number one tourist attraction of the Timanfaya Volcano Park. As this is just a fifteen minute drive.
Tags: canary islands, destinations, Lanzarote, Playa Blanca, travel
May 12, 2010
Lanzarote Volcanic Breaks
Whilst volcanic activity recently disrupted the travel plans of millions of tourists many are still jetting off to holiday hot spots around the world this year. Such as Lanzarote in the Canaries, an island that was forged by the fire of enormous eruptions during the 18th and 19th centuries. Which left a large slice of the island looking like something out of a science fiction film.
Lanzarote is an island that has been totally transformed by volcanic activity. Large scale eruptions rocked the island during the 1730s and went on for six years. Followed up by a further encore in 1824. As a result around 200km square of the islands surface area is now a lunar like lava scape. A surreal and eerie site that has caught the eye of numerous film makers over the years.
You may think that the fact that the island has volcanic origins may actually discourage some visitors and property investers but nothing could be farther from the truth. The barren terrain also provides numerous interesting activities and attractions for tourist and combine that with the excellent year round climate, countless sun kissed beaches its not surprising that visitors return again and again. Many retired couples have even invested in their own second homes which they let out during the bouyant summer season, but then use over the winter months as the climate is much warmer than the rest of Europe.
Lanzarote Holiday Villas And Accommodation. There is an excellent choice of accommodation on the island ranging from self catering apartments for the budget concious, through to hotels and private villas. The biggest question on most peoples lips however is where to stay.
Visitors can take their choice of three main holiday destinations. In winter villas in Playa Blanca tend to attract lots of bookings, as this part of the island enjoys a more clement climate during December and January. Whilst villas in Puerto del Carmen are more popular with tourists in search of decent nightlife, as there is a real abundance of clubs and bars here in Lanzarote?s largest resort.
The third largest resort of Costa Teguise is located to the north of Arrecife airport on the south east coastline. It was created around 35 years ago with the help of C?sar Manrique, a popular local artist who had a hand in the creation of many of Lanzarote?s best known attractions too. He developed plans for an upmarket resort which is still anchored today by the five star Gran Melia Salinas hotel. Which is still one of the best hotels in Lanzarote and where guests can view some of his original canvasses adorning the walls of the public spaces.
Lanzarote offers visitors plenty to do and see as well as year round sunshine – which has helped to establish it as the third most popular of the Canary Islands after Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Boasting a whole host of attractions such as the natural wonders of the Timanfaya Volcano Park, the green lagoon at El Golfo and the Valley of 1000 Palms. As well as the creations of a local artist called Cesar Manrique, which include the Mirador del Rio, Cactus Garden and the Jameos del Agua. Along with close to a hundred great beaches and picturesque pueblos such as Yaiza and Haria.
Get the low down on Lanzarote
Tags: canary islands, destinations, Lanzarote, Spain, travel
April 22, 2010
Villas and Holidays In Playa Blanca
The Canary Island of Lanzarote continues to be one Europe’s favourite holiday break and can be deluged under a swathe of travellers in the high season. Given its popularity sometimes it is without a doubt hard to choose exactly where to stay but a little research can go a long way in helping you make your current final choice.
Lanzarote in the Canary Islands boasts a number of very high quality holiday resorts. But Playa Blanca leads the way when it comes to great weather – thanks to the fact that it is located right at the southern tip of the island. Whilst also offering visitors a fantastic selection of breathtaking beaches to explore. Making this the fastest growing resort on Lanzarote.
Tourist development only started in earnest in Playa Blanca during the 1990s and until then this really was little more than just a sleepy little fishing village. From where visitors could hop on board ferries that cross the Bocaina Straits to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura. All that has changed now however – as the combination of great weather and beaches soon caught the eye of hotel and property developers. Resulting in a rash of new building work during the 1990?s.
Geographically Playa Blanca is basically made up of three small bays set within one much larger cove – providing plenty of shelter from the wind. And visitors can enjoy a stroll along the seafront from one end of the resort to the other. Thanks to the fact that it is united by a promenade that runs from the Faro de Pechuguera lighthouse through to the outer reaches of Papagayo.
Holiday villas in Playa Blanca have become very popular with tourists over the last few years, as they offer decent value for money. And are the best choice during the winter months when the climate here is more favourable than elsewhere on the island.
Playa Blanca villas also often offer better value for money than in other resorts on the island – thanks to the fact that there is such a large supply here for tourists to chose from. And all come with private pools and plenty of added extras such as Jacuzzis and internet connections.
Whilst many guests find it hard to leave the poolside during their stay there are some great beaches around the resort to explore. Such as the small town beach of Playa Blanca (the resorts namesake), Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo. As well as the real star of the show – the stunning set of coves and bays of Papagayo (parrot in Spanish). Which take just fifteen minutes to reach on foot from the centre of the resort. The islands number one tourist attraction, the Timanfaya Volcano Park, is also just a short drive away. And is an absolute must see for anyone visiting Lanzarote.
Tags: canary islands, destinations, Lanzarote, Playa Blanca, travel
April 11, 2008
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, are really a group of seven islands that are volcanic in origin. They are actually located south west of Spain and north west of Africa and enjoy the mild weather patterns that exist through the coastal areas off Morocco. Historically they have served as a stopping off point for explorers from Spain that were heading for the New World and were also a resort type location for traveling dignitaries and famous people throughout history. The actual name of the Canary Islands is not believed to be from birds as may be expected, but rather from canines or dogs, which in Latin is Insula Canaria. Early Roman explorers likely were referring to the large wild dog populations found on several of the islands in the group. It is also believed in legend and myth that the lost city of Atlantis is located within the geographic area of the Canary Islands, further adding to the mystery of the location.
The seven islands that make up the Canary Island chain are La Palma, Hierro, Gomera, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. Each of the islands has its own cultural influences and special attractions, but in general the year round weather and beautiful scenery make all the islands popular tourist destinations. The average yearly temperature in the islands is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for year round outdoor swimming, hiking and enjoyment. Most of the islands have moderate to light rainfall during the year with no typically rainy seasons or poor vacation times. (more…)
Tags: canaries, canary islands, regions-of-spain