Posts Tagged ‘Tenerife’

The Return of the Sun Dried Expat

Monday, May 14th, 2012

The first time I visited Tenerife way in the early 1970’s, the island of Tenerife was unquestionably Spain. People talked Spanish, meal times were quite different from the actual stuff dished up back in England, most people living there were- acutally they were Spanish. Roll on a handful of decades and exactly what do we have?

Great images from the Eze Group

Particular small villages enjoy a absolutely mixed ambience to them, without any real prominence achieved ; a Danish man existing adjacent to a German, who may have an Irishman on the other side ; is a common variety of circumstance. Many, slightly older, more longer settled areas are still Speaking spanish, however some neighborhoods are incredibly British and I suggest rather British. British businesses, English speaking cafes (sometimes including full British public house along with horse brasses and carpet), English language dining establishments usually displaying signs with complete English breakfast dished up all day’ chalked up with regard to their non -Spanish customers.

The English began showing up in modest numbers in the 70’s increasing on a yearly basis until finally the influx of British migration began to abate along with the global financial mayhem from the recent years. Countless factors merged to produce this specific invasion (generally with blood); affordable vino, higher retirement benefits, all year round sunshine, higher house prices at home and a perception within a lot of Brits that things back home were not as they used to be. This sense of a land transforming for the worse is really a European wide phenomenon although no place felt as profoundly as in Great britain.

Village after village packed with the English and living like only we English can do ; devoid of regard to the life style or environment around us. Just how much everything has switched presently, the formerly absent sounds of Spanish is certainly coming back, the fried breakfast as well as pint of lager are now infrequently found, a bizarre thing is happening. The Brits are vanishing; not totally but some seaside communities, formally full with Brits, are either empty or rather more Spanish speaking compared to what they were even a year or so ago.

Just as a mixture of reasons caused their arrival an odd mixture is responsible for their disappearance. The cost of living has rocketed, the Euro can make stuff far more expensive and the drop in house prices back home has made the very idea of possessing a Spanish house, once inside the reach of the masses, now a distant aspiration.

Even so there’s a cause for the return of those, not too homesick Britons; a cause other than that of just money. Simply put a lot of people as a result of numerous years of residing abroad have started to realise that matters are generally not perfect over here, and they’ve simply arrived back home to be around the things they recognize best.

If you want to find out more about Tenerife tourism, then visit our site, we at Eze Group know all there is to know about this beautiful island.

2011: The record year for Tenerife tourism by Brits

Friday, May 4th, 2012

Last year was a great year for tourism in Tenerife. Not just a great year, in fact, but a record breaking one. Along with figures relating to their tourism industry last year, the Tenerife Tourism Corporation has announced that in 2011, more Britons than ever visited their island on holiday.

The figures released in February 2012 regarding last year’s record breaking tourism showed that 10.6% more Brits visited Tenerife than the year before, totalling 1,658,315. September was the month that saw the highest increase that, based on the year before, saw an increase of a staggering 34%! Before 2011, the last time the island saw record breaking figures was back in 2005.

But how are these figures laid out. Well, hotels saw the number of tourists increase by 14%, with another 7.6% increase in other forms of accommodation. It was not just the summer that saw an increase either; the 2010/2011 winter period also saw a rather impressive climb in numbers by 6.3% compared to the previous year. Although last year’s figures were only released in February 2012, the Tenerife Tourism Corporation are confident that already the 2011/2012 winter season is set to be another record breaker.

But it was the summer that boasted the highest increase in British tourists to Tenerife, equating to a rise of 21.2%. The Travel Trade Industry Director of the Tenerife Tourism Corporation, Pia Louw, has responded to these findings by saying: “We’re extremely pleased to see a come-back in British tourists, which demonstrates confidence is gradually being restored. Nonetheless, in such uncertain conditions and in such a highly competitive environment, we will continue to work hard to maintain our position as a top holiday choice for UK visitors, which represent our most important source market.”

These figures come at the perfect time, as they were revealed at the same time as the Tenerife Tourism Corporation announced their new four-year tourism strategy which will no doubt help this fantastic increase to continue over the years to come.

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Things for families to do in Tenerife

Saturday, March 17th, 2012

People from all around the world visit the island of Tenerife each year for holidays but it is extremely popular with people from other European countries. Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and despite being part of Spain it actually sits just of the African coast. This location means the island has fantastic temperatures throughout the year and is one of the hottest and most accessible holiday destinations for people in Europe.

People aren’t just attracted to Tenerife by the high temperatures and the southern location as the island has lots more to offer people who visit for a holiday. Tenerife has lots of beautiful towns and resorts for people to visit and experience as well as plenty of beaches spread around the outside of the island. The beaches on Tenerife are some of the best in Europe and a really good place for families to spend large parts of their holiday.

A great thing for families to try when in Tenerife is taking a trip to a water park such as the Siam Water Park. Siam is not just the best in Tenerife but one of the best in Europe too and it is an exhilarating place to spend a day or two. There are plenty of pools and slides around the park which are suitable for children of different ages but the Tower of Power is the highlight. This slide has a staggering 28 metre drop which is sure to get the heart racing and the adrenaline going.

For something which can only be experienced in a few places throughout the world, Loro Parque is the answer. The park has an amazing collection of around 4000 parrots as well as lots of other beautiful birds. That isn’t all though as there is also a zoo now where animals including gorillas, penguins, dolphins and killer whales live.

Families looking to try something completely new can visit the Scubayaci Dive Resort PADI Tenerife. Once at the resort people of all skill levels can go diving with fully qualified instructors in some of Tenerife’s best spots for diving.

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The Year Round Sunny Island

Monday, March 12th, 2012

The island of Tenerife delights in a superbly sunny climate the heat lessened because of the prevailing wind and heated as a result of its southerly position. The island boasts a typical winter time temp of 22 C increasing toward a warm but not objectionable 28 C during the summer. Small surprise this tropical isle is regarded as the Island of Endless Spring.

The area has taken well over 50 million years of constant geological action to make. Forming it’s present-day form roughly 3 million years ago. Tenerife is basically a small grouping of small volcanoes collected around the wonder inspiring and beautiful Mnt Teide (the most significant mountain peak in Spanish territory) Nonetheless don’t worry, Teide erupted for the last time in 1798.

Even though nearby El Hierro is without a doubt still dangerous even as we speak having precipitated evacuations even as recently as the later part of 2011. Volcano expertes inform us that we should be safe for the moment, but the understanding regarding volcanoes happens to be an uncertain discipline on the best of times. We surely have the volcanic activity that these particular isles derive from to thank for much of our gorgeous vistas along with breathtaking scenery.

This unique volcanically formed geology has produced several unquestionably amazing natural structures; the amazing Anaga mountain found in the amazing north eastern corner of the isle is really a host to exceptionally extreme gorges coupled with valleys, the exceptionally exquisite Valle of Orotava (a federal park) along with the valley of Guimar are Two deep valleys formed as a result of significant geological motions, the undeniably massive coves found at Los Gigantes, all help to make Tenerife an awesome natural spectacle.

Its location combined with the years of geological activity have equally conspired to make a really great assortment of vistas in such a small area. This unique selection offers subsequently to the island growing an entire combination of mini- climates, every one possessing a varied natural structure. As an illustration Tenerife hosts more than 1,500 different types of plants.

Some Spanish scenes fromEze Group Tenerife

The sea if full with well over 600 varieties of fish combined with different species of turtle, whale as well as dolphin. The warm temperate sea meets the warmer mild island, Tenerife truly does warrant it’s designation of old, “The Blessed Island”.

All this wonder should be safeguarded therefore it’s comforting to discover that over half the island’s land is protected by law and additionally protected strongly through the Canary Network for the Safety of Natural Places. The isle is furthermore the site of more than 40 particularly guarded sites of outstanding scientific attraction.

The island is a definitely lovely spot to pay a visit to, or if perhaps a somewhat more long lasting move could be an option; Tenerife is a superb place to relocate to. Warm, delicate and almost with out rainfall or even strong wind. Do come sample the winter sun’s rays for your self?

Tenerife is certainly a undeniably amazing, year round, vacation holiday destination. The Eze Group are Tenerife’s number one vacation company.

Spanish Battle To Keep The Modern Vacationer

Tuesday, March 6th, 2012

Spain has kept it’s spot one of the top rank of holiday destinations during the last Three decades. It plays host to millions of travellers each year, topping 59 million annual vistitors for most of the decade. Despite the fact that France continually pipped it for the title of most traveled to, the french had their visitors way more evenly spread all through the entire year. Spain has been since the early 70’s Europes leading spot to take a summer holiday, nonetheless against growing competition it struggles to hold it’s summer season dominance.

Consistent improvements are being carried out by The Spaniards to bring ever bigger amounts of holidaymakers. This is a neccessity to the sensitive Spanish economy, because the tourism niche draws in many 100’s of millions of dollars into the nation’s economic system, as most other sectors slide ever deeper towards recession.

Previously holidaymakers frequented Spain simply because of its dry hot summers, which in turn resulted in a quiet period with regard to vacation in addition to linked enterprises during the winter months. These days however Spain has made great progress toward becoming a year round holiday destination by way of huge expenditure paying rewards around cultural tourism and even winter sports (there are many mountains in addition to winter season holiday resorts all over the mainland).

Some scenes of Spain fromthe Eze Group

Today each season receives significant visitor traffic, apart from seashore holidays and also other natural points of interest, Spain can offer incredible and widespread nature parks, amusement parks, mall establishments, plus a rising traditional and cultural vacation industry.

Night life in Spanish towns and cities is often viewed as amongst the best on the planet. The siesta lifestyle lending itself to evening life, meaning that while many other European towns are in bed asleep Spanish cities are just coming to life. A good mix of European and Arab culture additionally gives great variety to the legendary fiestas, a tremendous way to submerge your self in Spanish society and tradition.

Along with the modern day traveler having a broad variety of vacation spots along with ever more affordable air fare Spain knows that it will need to at this point up it’s game if it’s to stay at the top of Western european visitor choices.

The contemporary traveler is much more well informed and much more choosy around where they spend their limited and hard earned vacation budget. Options have expanded and so have the spread of things a traveler wants from his break in the sun. The present day Spanish tourism bureaucracy governing bodyis well aware of these facts as a consequence continuously looks for fresh and better strategies to entice the tourist.

The incontrovertible fact that given the opening of places in several other continents and also the expectations of the modern traveler the reality that Spain nevertheless holds it’s position in the first rank of destinations says much regarding the advantages of The country of Spain and also the the energy of the Spanish authorities to keep Spain in the for front of the tourist’s mind.

Tenerife Hub for just about all the updates, news and data a holidaymaker may possibly require while on Tenerife, brought to you by The Eze Group – Tenerife’s major leisure company.

Tenerife – the beautiful Island

Friday, March 2nd, 2012

The island where spring never ends.

Getting on for 6 million tourists come to Tenerife annually. Over a million people live here. Some of our guests are what you might call regulars, some visit us only once. But if you were to question visitors and residents about the beauties and wonders of the island, only a small number actually get to see and enjoy all this amazing place has to give.

This huge and many would say beautiful island has been pushing up out of the earth since the place we call Europe came into being. It still pushes and forces, sometimes causing volcanic bursts of activity, sometimes earthquakes, sometimes massive movements of land. Living memory has no fatalities, but the science of volcanoes and earthquakes is in it’s infancy, the residents of Tenerife watch and wait, under the shadow of the Atlantic’s tallest mountain. Who know’s if it has more growth in it, or whether like some other volcanic peaks it’s set to fall into the see or sunder into pieces.

This tectonic and volcanic activity has led to the islands being a geologists and naturalists dream. A rucksack carrying naturalist can study flora and fauna that could normally encountered across thousands of miles, on view here in a mornings brisk hike. Desert, tropical vegetation,alpine like scenery and not forgetting the moonscape of Teide, can all be found here in close proximity to one another. The huge movements of earth and the incredible temperatures have forged rock formations and geographic features that please both the tourist and the professional geoglogist – all in an area the size of Greater London.

Level with Arizona, the sea saves us from the heat of summer and at night keeps us warm. A low rain at sea level but ample rainfall in the mountains, means Tenerife is lush in places and never given to drought. It is in the way of neither storms or monsoons (unlinke other less fortunate places at this latitude). It has mild almost non-existent winters and the sea gives itself to water sports during all months of the year.

This cooling sea of home to many types of fish as well as large sea mammal. Whales, dolphins and sea turtles are common just of the coast. Hundreds of species of plant live here in the many varied microclimates that the islands topography has provided. Tenerife is home to numerous unique plant regions and sub-regions, making it a very special place for tourist and scientist alike.

About 50 percent of the island is placed under protection from the Canary Island Network for the purpose of Defended Organic Regions. We have Forty three places under exceptional safeguard. We have the national park of Teide but in addition 2 rural safeguarded parks at Anaga and Teno, 4 natural reserves and special natural parks, 9 specifically safeguarded areas no fewer than 14 natural preserved monuments, together with Half a dozen locations of specific scientific safeguards.

Nature has given us so much, and thankfully we on Tenerife seem to be willing to protect our gifts. We now ask you why don’t you come and spend some time with us on our beautiful island home?

Looking to find the best information about Tenerife tourism, then visit us at Eze Group Tenerife, your experts for everything the island has to offer.

Dragon Tree – Tenerife’s Natural Symbol

Friday, February 17th, 2012

The Dragon Tree, or as it is referred to in Spain’s Canary Islands, the Dracaena Draco, is Tenerife’s natural symbol. While it is not officially a tree, it does look a lot like one when it grows to full maturity.

It is actually placed in the asparagus family. It begins with a branch like plant that takes years to grow. Normally it will take from 10 – 15 years for a branch to produce another growth from it. This is why you cannot tell how old the tree is by rings like other trees. You will have to estimate by counting the branching points of the tree. It will take sometimes the full 10 years to reach just 4 feet.

The tree forms spike lily like flowers and is followed by coral colored berries. Once the buds die off the tree begins to grow again. Many as an ornamental tree for their landscape and gardens use the Dragon Tree. With it’s slow growth and beauty it will be part of their landscape for years to come.

Dragon Blood which is a reddish resin taken from the bark and leaves of this tree is used to stain Stradivarius violins because it requires rich stain and it is also used on many other items. The tree is used not only for ornamental purposes but also for medicinal use.

It’s a very good tree either for your ornamental garden or landscape due to its beauty and it’s an easy tree to grow, which can withstand drought. It’s really interesting to see the flowers and berries while growing. It would be a real beauty to look at this tree if you could add this in your landscape.

A visit to Canary Islands would make you understand and appreciate the slow growth and beauty of the Dragon Tree. You should really have one in your garden to enjoy it throughout the year. Dragon Blood could be used as a great wood stain. It would be great to visit Canary Islands in Spain to have a look at the famous Dragon Tree.

Cecelia Owens loves travel and she does freelance writing for the top South African travel comparison website, BestFlights.co.za offering Flights to Tenerife.

An introduction to Canaries cruises

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

Canary Island cruises are great for those wanting to combine dramatic landscape views with the best on-board facilities. Not just for those who have never visited the islands before, Canaries cruises offer a whole new perspective to seeing these volcanic islands whilst enjoying this archipelago’s year-round sunshine.

Canary Island cruises departing from the UK will often take in other en-route ports on the way there and back. Additional ports include Lisbon and Madeira, although some longer and more extensive cruises that take in the Canary Islands will also call in at Mediterranean ports like Athens (Greece), Messina (Italy) and Cairo (Egypt).

The cruise around the actual Canary Islands, however, usually take in at least four out of the seven islands, with the most popular islands being Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma and Lanzarote. Although they are in close proximity to each other and clearly grew from the same volcanic origins, each individual island offers different culture and scenery which help to keep this Canaries cruise interesting.

Tenerife, the largest of the islands, has a dramatically rugged coastline made up of golden and black sand beaches. Being a highly populous island, day visitors from cruise ships to the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, can expect plenty of cafes, cut-price shops, and lots of fine architecture to keep them busy. Gran Canaria’s capital, Las Palmas, is equally as busy, with many day trippers going further out to other nearby villages or even the desert to experience the island’s peaceful charm and natural diversity.

Lanzarote has the richest volcanic scenery in the Canary Islands, and no matter where you are on or off the island, you can see the tall peaks of the glorious Los Ajaches mountain range. The capital of La Palma, Santa Cruz, is said to have the Canary Island’s prettiest port, which is understandable when you find yourselves walking around 16th Century buildings and local markets. Also home to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, cruisers may also find themselves staring into the depths of the island’s massive crater. But whichever route you take around the Canaries, and whichever islands you explore, what is certain is that the views are simply majestic.

There are some great Lanzarote holidays around online.

Tenerife’s volcanoes

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011

Just off the coast of northwest Africa lies the archipelago of the Canary Islands, the largest of which is Tenerife. The Canary Islands are all volcanic in origin, which is why it is not at all surprising that Tenerife is home to not only the tallest point in Spain, but also the third tallest volcano in the world.

Mount Teide is just shy of a staggering 12,200ft tall, which explains why it is not just Spain’s tallest point, but also the third tallest volcano in the world. This stature helps to explains why Mount Teide is responsible for bringing in just over half the island’s annual 5million tourists. Visitors will be glad to hear, however, that Teide Mountain itself last erupted in 1798, and is therefore classed as dormant.

Standing in the UNESCO designated World Heritage Site called Mount Teide National Park, there are many walks and excursions tourists can take to view the volcano, and to see over to the other Canary Islands. There is also a cable car that takes people right up Mount Teide, although a permit is needed to get access to the summit.

On the island of Tenerife are many other vents that all make up the Mount Teide volcano. The most recent volcanic activity the island has seen was in 1909 when the El Chinyero vent erupted on the northwest side of the Santiago rift. Previous to that, the other recorded eruptions have all been in the same area of this Santiago rift, and much of the lava flows and general effects of these are still visible today.

The hikes through and climbs up the volcanic peaks of Mount Teide offer amazing island views, as well as views of Tenerife’s neighbouring Canary islands. A trip to Tenerife would not be complete without seeing the unique flora and fauna of the national park, and exploring the many sharp precipices and deep crevices it has. Although Tenerife is well-loved for its package holidays and beaches, there is clearly so much more to his geologically fascinating island.

For cheap Tenerife holidays, look no further.

Holidaying on a budget in Tenerife

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011

It’s fair to say that many of us find ourselves a bit strapped for cash every now again, but still crave that break away to rejuvenate. Tenerife, the largest of the Spanish Canary Islands located just off the west coast of Africa, attracts over 5 million tourists every year, and with such competition between hotels and resorts, makes it a great destination for budget holiday makers.

Tenerife holidays already have great prices, but there are a few things you can do to ensure you get a real bargain holiday. Booking a holiday really early or last minute can both help ensure you get the best rate on the market. All-inclusive packages are also great for those on a budget, as the cost of flights, accommodation, food and activities which are included are usually cheaper than if you pay as you go when there.

Tenerife may be one of the world’s busiest holiday destinations, but there are still many quaint old towns and villages to check out for free. Those after a bit more adventure should shy away from organised day tours, and instead opt to hire a car or bike to explore the island which is much more purse friendly.

Tenerife’s a fantastic island to explore, offering landscape and beaches waiting to be found for free. There’s so much to explore on the island, from natural volcanic black sand and epic craters to 19th century Guimar Pyramids, making Tenerife ideal for those seeking a budget, but interesting, holiday destination.

A holiday sometimes just isn’t complete with a trip to one of the family-friendly attractions, like the Siam Park and Aqualand water parks and the Jungle Park animal attraction in Tenerife. Look out for competitive tourist information centres when on the island as they often have the best competitive prices. But if you feel they’re trying to rip you off, just book online direct with the tourist park if possible.

For cheap holidays Tenerife, look now further.