A year-round destination, dancing in sunlight and ready for action 12 months of the year? Such a place does exist, and thankfully, it’s not too far away. Does this magical place break the bank? No! Combine a Gran Canaria break with a little pre-planning and take advantage of a few tips, such as booking airport parking, and you’ll be saving before you jet off. I used Bristol Airport parking on my trip to the Canaries recently, so I know what I’m talking about!
Photo Credit: Creative Commons
The Canary Islands are a go-to favourite for holidays drenched in sun, so there are some great deals to be had. The beaches are fantastic, with many to choose from, no matter which island you choose, but for me, Playa Del Ingles on Gran Canaria is where I’d be heading.
Getting around Gran Canaria is easy, with a good bus network, but if you can, I’d really recommend hiring a car and getting out and about, with freedom at your fingertips. It would be a crime not to visit Maspalomas, with its famous sand dunes, and hiring a car allows you to do this, without relying on excursions. The capital, Las Palmas, is another must visit, and if you’re into history and architecture, this is for you. The stunning Cathedral de Santa Ana is beautiful, and a fantastic photo moment. There are also museums to wander around, a good break from the summer heat.
Speaking of cooling down, a great way I’ve found to do this, is to hit the beach and indulge in a few water-sports. Parasailing is a great activity, and if you’ve got a head for heights, you’ll love it! Alternatively, jet-skis are a blast, as well as banana boats. Take your pick! Playa Del Ingles is the best for sports of the splashing kind, but whichever beach you choose, there’s always the opportunity to kick back and relax.
As far as shopping is concerned, Gran Canaria has the usual tacky tourist souvenirs, and you’ll find them in the main resorts, again Playa Del Ingles will offer this, but head to Las Palmas for a real retail therapy fix, with large stores and markets to splash your saved Euros.
When the sun goes down, your choice of entertainment is anything from chilling out with a cocktail and the sunset, or partying on down at one of the many bars and clubs on the island. Whichever you choose, be sure to line that stomach first, before you hit the sangria. There are many international menus on offer, and lots of seafood dishes and tapas for something a little more authentic.
As you can see, Gran Canaria offers you the perfect, traditional summer holiday, and a good, old sunshine holiday deserves a rested start. Starting your holiday a few hours earlier, getting some added shut-eye and being relaxed the moment you enter the airport, is certainly a perk worth paying for – but worry not, it’s cheaper than you think! Combining airport parking with a night in an airport hotel will often save you money, when compared with expensive taxis and the stress of public transport. I recently stayed at one of the Gatwick hotels from HolidayExtras.co.uk and would repeat the experience tomorrow. Most large UK airports offer a selection, such as the wide range of Heathrow hotels, so check out what’s available near you, and start your holiday in the best possible way.
Sun, sea, relaxation and memories to last a lifetime – Gran Canaria is the perfect backdrop!
