| |
Guide to Tenerife, Spain
|
Click to go to Flight Prices for Tenerife
|
TenerifeSitting roughly in the center of the archipelago known as the Canary Islands, Tenerife is one of the most ideal vacation venues for travelers looking for a bit of a tropical Spanish zest. Water sports and activities are endless here, and the steady surf at portions of the coast is perfect for adrenaline addicted surfers around the world. Of course, calm waters and cool sea breezes are also available around Tenerife, and there are plenty of great eateries for those pre-hike meals. There are a number of volcanoes on the island, and you can see snow at the peak of Pico del Teide year-round, and while youre getting lost in undeveloped wilderness, you can be sure that you are in the midst of a paradise. From cable-car rides to strolls around the capital of Santa Cruz, Tenerife offers you an experience you cant find anywhere else, and you can bet it will be unforgettable!
When to go:
The climate in and around Tenerife is ideal no matter what time of year it may be. Whether you visit during spring, summer, autumn or winter, youll be feeling the cool, dry air hovering between 60-80F (15-25C). Tenerife sits in the middle of the Canary Islands, so it is somewhat shielded from most natural anomalies that may occur, but the island is bound to get some soakings throughout the year, which, luckily, dont last very long, and the sun is virtually out as soon as the last drop falls. The island is less crowded during the off seasons (winter, spring, autumn), however, if you wish to take part in any trademark events, youll have to brave the crowds (at least in Santa Cruz), but the benefits to doing so far outweigh any negatives.
Getting there and around:
The main and only international airport in Tenerife is known as Sur Reina Sofia, and it handles quite a number of daily flights (mostly to/from neighboring islands and chief mainland cities). If youre looking for a tour of the island right when you step off the plane, there are several independent operators who will be happy to arrange last minute accommodations if available. If youd rather opt for your own excursion, you can simply purchase a standard bus ticket to any number of towns (fare depends on distance). A few resorts offer complimentary pickup/drop-off.
To get around the main cities if youre not keen to walking the streets the main mode of transportation is a taxi. Buses are available, but if you dont happen to be in Santa Cruz, routes are not extensive, and walking a sizeable distance is almost mandatory. You can always arrange for a rented vehicle, though you may find yourself asking for directions more than youd first expected.
Attractions:
The chief attraction in Tenerife is the Playa de las Americas, a world-renowned resort on the southwest coast of the island based around a man-made beach (most of the beaches around Tenerife are indeed artificial, due to past volcanic activity) begun over 30 years ago. The resorts hotels are top-notch; great views are available from ocean-side rooms on the uppermost floors. The restaurants here are wonderful, with an international cuisine that will make anyone feel at home. If youre looking for a bit more solitude, you can visit the neighboring resort of Los Christianos, which, not surprisingly, has received quite an influx of vacationers over the past few years.
If youre a history or archaeology buff, theres no better place to visit on Tenerife than the Ethnographic Park. Here you will find the yet unexplainable reasoning behind six step-pyramids. An anthropologist known as Thor Heyerdahl spent much of his career studying the pyramids, and they continue to astound visitors to this day. In addition to the pyramids, you can make your way through a small, yet interesting museum and a replica of the ship /Kontiki/, used by Heyerdahl.
|
|
|
