Tenerife travel guide
by Claribel Rizas
Tenerife is the largest of the Spanish Canary islands and lies in the Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of Africa. Tenerife's beautiful mountainous regions, unusual black beaches and sparkling seas have all contributed to its status as a popular tourist destination, but the island has even more to offer than that.
In terms of travelling, Tenerife is relatively easy to get to. It is served by two airports: Tenerife North, Los Rodeos Airport (GCXO) and Reina Sof?a Airport (GCTS), both of which are well served by most airlines. If you aren't a fan of flying you can also take a ferry: they run most frequently from the Spanish port of Cadiz. The island itself is served by a fairly good road system; you can either rent a car and drive or take advantage of the island's bus network.
Tenerife's popularity as a holiday destination means there are lots of accommodation options to suit everyone. A popular option is to rent a villa or apartment for the week.Tthere are numerous companies which provide this service and use that as a base for your trip, alternatively most of the coastline is dotted with hotels. The Hotel Villa Cortez is particularly recommended for those looking for some luxury on their trip.
Tenerife's island location means the seafood is as good as you'd expect; fresh, tasty and with a wide range of options. Seafood is normally accompanied by another of the island's delicacies, 'Mojo' or a sauce whose content ranges from peppery red Mojo to Coriander and Garlic infused green Mojo. Tenerife also prides itself on the quality of its cheese which is one of the island's biggest exports.
If you're looking to get a real feel for life on Tenerife then the numerous festivals celebrated on the island are good times in which to visit. The Pilgrimages or Romer?as are normally celebrated by processions accompanied by local food, arts and crafts, dance, and sports; alternatively the larger, world-famous Carnival of St Cruz (held in February) attracts visitors from all over the world.
For those interested in the seaside Tenerife boasts pristine beaches, of which the almost ridiculously picturesque El Puertito comes most highly recommended. Along the seaside-theme the Eden Catamaran, a boat trip which takes you out in search of dolphins and whales, is also worth doing.
However, Tenerife isn't all about lounging about on the best; it also boasts a good nightlife. The most vibrant area is probably the Playa de las Americas resort, which has two areas (the 'Veronicas' and the 'Starco centre') solely dedicated to pubs, clubs and bars. Alternatively, for those looking for a more family-friendly evening the 'The Patch' in the same resort has family friendly cabaret bars, shops and restaurants.
Tenerife encompasses the best of island life: its tightly-knit community, unique lifestyle and, of course, the beaches. However, it is also cosmopolitan and modern enough to entertain even the most discerning traveller.
Claribel Rizas is a freelance writer with many years experience of Eurpoean travel. They recommend Monarch for cheap flights to Tenerife.