Friday 30 September 2011

Holidays To Lanzarote - A Hassle-Free Vacation


Lanzarote, the fourth largest among the Canary Islands, is a nice place to treat your family for a holiday. Situated only a hundred miles away from the coast of Africa, and with a temperature ranging from 21-28 degrees centigrade, you can enjoy the nice warm weather which is great for sports activities, nature tripping, or even simply having a relax leisure time on the beach in this town of Lanzarote.

Lanzarote has a "lunar" type of landscape formed from the many volcanic eruptions around 19th century. When in Lanzarote, I would recommend that you visit the Caves of Los Verdes, which is the world's longest tunnel and was formed some 3000 years ago. You will also love the series of underwater caves in which some are still untamed by human exploration, and a cave that is huge enough to be used as a concert hall.

Have fun with the different types of sand beaches in Lanzarote. You'll going to enjoy the white sands of the North of the Island, the golden sands of Puerto Del Carmen, or be in the world's famous black sands of Playa Quemada. The white sand beaches in the North of Lanzarote, relatively from the sands blown from across Africa are also very popular as a surfing destination, since adept surfers would love the challenge of the strong wind coming from Atlantic Ocean.

Lanzarote is also a home for Club La Santa, a sport training club where many celebrity athletes choose to spend their trainings, especially those from Europe every time the weather there do not permit them to do such activities. The quiet and challenging roads of Lanzarote are a thumb up for most runner and cyclist. And if you are a non-active athlete, you can always try to have fun in the wonderful golf courses. In case you wanted to learn how to dive, there are also schools offering diving lessons; jet skiing, parasailing and a deep sea fishing.

Holiday Packages in Lanzarote is a hassle-free vacation for you and your love ones. This 60 km long and 20 km wide town, is lined up with a number of hotels ranging from 5 stars to 4 stars hotels as well as cheap lodges that gives comfortable accommodations making your stay in Lanzarote an unforgettable one. Puerto Del Carmen is the busiest of all places in Lanzarote, with their wide nice beaches, first-class restaurants, bars and clubs that caters for all ages, a nice classic ambiance but with modern facilities to cater your modern needs, surely, this place will going to one of your favourite destinations in the future. If you need a quieter environment, Puerto Calero is the place for you. They can offer you a more exclusive resort based around the marina and top quality hotels that provide a world-class accommodation.

Transportation won't be a problem for you since the Lanzarote Arrecife airport now operates excellently from it's newly constructed modern terminal and facilities.



Get to Know the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote


An incredible volcanic eruption of the largest proportions took place in, and formed, the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote. The eruptions lasted six years and started on the first of September in 1730. The Timanfaya Park is found to the southwest of Lanzarote centered around the Montanas del Fuego or Fire Mountains. The eruptions from this group of volcanoes caused devastation to an area of 200 square kilometers. Even though they finished erupting around 275 years ago in many places the ground is still warm to the touch. Dig a little below the surface and ground temperatures can boil water, burn wood and cook food. There is a restaurant and tourist center based in the middle of the Park where guides regularly pour water into a spout to see it return in a jet of steam only seconds later. A few meters away is a pit into which wood is thrown, only too burst into flames. The restaurant cooks food over a deeper hole that returns even higher temperatures.

Access to the Timanfaya Park is restricted to cars and tour coaches, an entrance fee must be paid at the gate. Once inside the park it is like being on the moon. Nothing seems to have changed too much since the eruptions. Volcanic rock is spattered across the landscape as far as the eye can see. When you arrive at the parking area there will be a number of coaches ready to take you on a tour deeper into the most dramatic parts of the park. As the expert coach driver takes you along the small winding roads are tape is played telling you about the history of the area. It takes little imagination to realize what life must have been like when the eruptions were in full swing. Half way through the tour the coach stops for a few minutes in the 'valley of tranquility' which is a valley full of brightly colored volcanic ash. After the tour you are free to wander around and see how hot the earth just below the surface still is. Then you can lunch at the Restaurante del Diablo built on the Islote de Hilario area within the park.

Before the eruptions of 1730 this area was the most populated and fertile area of Lanzarote. Many people were forced to leave the island or hide out in caves. Never able to return to their homes. After a trip to the Timanfaya Park it is easy to imagine how life must have been in Lanzarote hundreds of years ago. Just getting around, finding water and surviving would have been very difficult.

These days getting to Lanzarote and around the island is very easy. Lanzarote is only four hours flight time from the UK. There are a large selection of airlines regularly visiting Lanzarote. Cheap flights to Lanzarote can be found with a little research and a holiday to remember had. The main day to arrive and leave is Thursday. To get to the Timanfaya National Park from your accommodation you will either need to hire a car or take a coach tour. Both options are easily found in any of the main resorts.



Things to Do in Lanzarote - Grow to Love Cesar Manrique


To say that Cesar Manrique is an institution on Lanzarote would be something of an understatement - it's a bit like saying Real Madrid is the best football team in Spain outside Barcelona!

Not only is Manrique's influence to be seen everywhere you travel on the island now, his life-long passion for Lanzarote, its architecture, geology and volcanic history has probably contributed more to the island's development than can be claimed by any one individual since the island's modern founding in 1402 by the Normans under Jean de Bethancourt.

No visit to Lanzarote is complete (or even possible) without coming across at least some of Manrique's work, so this article aims to give you the lowdown on 'all things Manrique'. Take it with you when you next visit Lanzarote, and make sure you visit some, if not all, of these great cultural venues.

Parque Nacional de Timanfaya

Whilst Manrique cannot lay claim to the natural art of the Lanzarote landscape created by the volcanic eruptions of the 18th Century, he was instrumental in having the area around Timanfaya (Fire Mountain) area designated as a National Park. He also designed the current Visitor Centre/restaurant that features panoramic views, along with a barbecue that is heated by the still bubbling volcano and hot earth some 6 metres below the surface.

Mirador del Rio

The word Mirador means look out, or view, or vantage point; the Mirador del Rio is situated at the northernmost tip of the island, about as high above sea level as it is possible to be without being on a cloud. Manrique was responsible for the 1973 conversion of the site from what was previously an artillery store. The Mirador del Rio is a spectacular viewing point, hewn out of cliff face, some 600 metres up in the air. It looks down, as if from the cockpit of a plane, on the neighbouring island of La Graciosa and the chinijo (or 'child islands') of Alegranza, Montaña Clara, Roques Del Este and Oeste.

In addition to outdoor viewing points on three levels, there is a restaurant with a semi circular window looking North to the neighbouring islands, and a souvenir shop.

Jardin de Cactus

Cesar Manrique was well known for his projects based around the natural form and history of Lanzarote, and the Jardin de Cactus is his monument to this range of plants that thrive so well in their natural state on the island. Manrique also chose to position the Cactus Garden in the town of Guatiza, an area surrounded by cactus fields that were traditionally used to cultivate the cochineal beetle for their red dye. This used to be big business for Lanzarote, before the advent of modern dyes.

The cactus garden is laid out within a pit in the ground that dates back to 1850. There are now nearly 10,000 cactus plants within the garden, and over 1,400 species of cactus. The planted gardens are interspersed with walkways, there is a cafe/bar serving light refreshments, and a souvenir shop.

Cesar Manrique Fundacion

The Fundacion is on the site of Manrique's former home in Tahiche, where he lived from 1968 to 1987. The house is built within 5 inter-connected lava bubbles in the ground which together create magnificent outdoor and indoor living space of some 1,500 square metres. There is also a large museum housing many of Manrique's paintings, sculptures and ceramics. The Fundacion is a very peaceful and serene place to absorb and admire the creative genius that was Cesar Manrique. The artist himself is said to have considered the foundation as the emblem of his life's work.

Los Jameos del Aqua

The Jameos del Aqua were created from a volcanic eruption in prehistoric times, and forms part of a large and complex infrastructure of caves in the North of Lanzarote. Cesar Manrique's involvement here was in the design, ideas and planning of restaurant and concert areas within the caves, as well as some of the floral and planting installations that are there now. There is also another cave system, the Cueva de Los Verdes that starts only a short walk away, so its worth doing both visits together - allow up to 3 hours for both.

And finally, of course, on our 'all things Manrique' tour, there are those roundabout 'Mobiles'..

Variously referred to as 'mobiles' or even 'thingys', these are pieces of art sculpture positioned in the centre of roundabouts across Lanzarote. They can best be summarised as very clever pieces of engineering (another skill of Cesar Manrique) that usually move in the wind (thus being in harmony with another big feature of life and the weather on Lanzarote), and have been influenced to a greater or lesser degree by the modern school of artists and sculptors.

Most people say they grow on you, and even more say that after many years, they still haven't got a clue what they are about. But you do have to look at them and marvel at the combined skills in physics, art, sculpture, engineering and conceptualisation that created them. Perhaps that, in a nutshell, describes the varied genius that was Cesar Manrique.



European Holiday To Lanzarote


It's always an exciting thing to travel around Europe, especially when you plan to fly to Lanzarote. This is one area of the Canary Islands that is beautiful and vibrant, and makes a great travel destination for any European trip. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when you fly to Lanzarote so you can ensure you have a stress-free, pleasant experience during your flights. Traveling with the following considerations in mind for making a choice in your airway service is a great way to eliminate planning and trip stress so you can really kick back and enjoy your experience.

First of all, it is very important to get the best rates for any airway travel, especially since airways are constantly getting more and more expensive. When you fly to Lanzarote, you will need to come up with a list of airways that offer the most competitive rates for your selected travel dates and times. A list of airways is a good place to start so you know exactly which ones to call and research, and this way have a good choice of flights that will give you good pricing and a good experience.

Secondly, you should also make sure the agency you choose to fly to Lanzarote has a variety of boarding options, so you can select the one that best suits your needs. You may be traveling alone, or you may be traveling with friends or family, in which case it may be more economical to choose cheaper boarding options. All airways that make it onto your list should offer a variety of boarding types including first class and coach class, so you can make the best selection.

Another important consideration when you fly to Lanzarote is how good the service will be. There are typically customer reviews of all different types of airways available. On top of that, you can contact the airways directly and get a sampling of their customer service, how friendly they are, and how responsive they are to your questions. These factors are a good indication of how it will be when you fly to Lanzarote, so it's a good idea to get a sampling.

Make sure as well that the airway you choose has some kind of luggage guarantee or insurance for lost luggage. There is nothing worse than starting a trip to fly to Lanzarote and then realizing along the way that your luggage has somehow been lost or misplaced. It is the flight's responsibility to keep track of luggage, and if they don't do their job, they should be held liable for this fact.

When you fly to Lanzarote, you will be in store for a fun and exciting experience. It's just important to make it as fun as possible without having to worry about expensive prices, luggage difficulties, or other hassles that will detract from your vacation time. These hassles can all be avoided as long as you make sure to choose a flight that will suit your needs and give you the best service available.



Lanzarote Holidays For the Partygoer


Holidaymakers are often in awe of the beaches of Lanzarote, one of the seven Spanish-administered Canary Islands. And yet Lanzarote is fast becoming a destination of choice for the party-goer looking for a change from the Ibiza party scene. Read our guide to Lanzarote's best bars and nightclubs, to ensure that you enjoy Lanzarote to the fullest!

In Puerto del Carmen, one of Lanzarote's major resorts, Avenida de Las Playas - also called The Strip - is where you will find all the night spots. The avenue is lined up with hundreds of restaurants, bars and nightclubs such as Paradise, a favourite of the British crowd. Discoteca RUMM is renowned for playing the latest Latino House Music while Café Ola presents a more chilled atmosphere. Head to Charlies and you might be able to catch a few live bands as well.

If you are looking for something for a more relaxed night of fun, check Puerto del Carmen' great selection of Irish pubs such as Murphy's, The Dubliner and the Irish Harbour Bar, all famous for their live music nights. Other friendly pubs worth visiting are Titos Karaoke Bar, ideal for a night out with the whole family as well as Tropical.

Even though most of Lanzarote's nightlife is concentrated in Puerto del Carmen, you should also try venturing in Arrecife for a more local feel. Most of the bars in Arrecife are located in Calle Jose Antonio and in the Avenida de Naos, where you will find La Naos, one of Lanzarote's trendiest venues. The adventurous tourist might try the famous caves of Jameos del Agua which turn into an unusual underground disco three times a week.

Whether you are into live music, karaoke nights or clubbing, Lanzarote's nightlife has something to offer for everyone.



Museums on Lanzarote Holidays


There are a surprising number of museums on the small island of Lanzarote. Most tourists on Lanzarote holidays come to the island for the sun and the beaches. However, the museums here are very interesting and deserve to be investigated. They range from state-of-the art displays in modern buildings to those museums covering aspects of island life. There are also the decidedly quirky museums, like 'Nazaret', built for the film star, Omar Sharif, who as legend has it, lost it on a high stakes bridge game, just days after buying it. Whatever your interest, there's bound to be a museum covering some aspect of it, on Lanzarote.

The Airport Museum (Museo Aeronautico) is right next to the Arrecife airport at Playa Honda in Lanzarote. The museum is actually housed in the old terminal building that was in use from 1946 -1970. Different floors have different exhibition themes. These range from the History of Flights in The Canaries, Tourism and Travel Activity, to Control Tower and Weather Station displays. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10am. to 2pm.

In Puerto Calero's marina is The Whale and Dolphin Museum, which is a great hit with the kids. Inside you will learn everything about these fascinating creatures via life-sized replicas, scale models and audio-visual displays. You can touch real whale bone and teeth, listen to a recording of whale song and see an absorbing film showing whales and dolphins in their own natural environment. The museum is open all year round, Monday to Saturday and is recommended for those on family holidays to Lanzarote. As a further incentive, children under the age of 7 get in for free and the whole museum is wheelchair friendly.

The whole family will love 'Tiagua'. It offers an insight into the agricultural traditions of the island. Housed in one of the largest rural houses on the island, it is a working farm with free ranging farm animals and where the traditional Lanzarote crops are still being grown. Other attractions at this excellent museum are a chapel, a wine museum and a cactus garden. Visitors can buy the wine and the goats' cheese produced on the farm. Admission is 5 euros and 'Tiague' is open from 10-5 on Mondays through to Fridays and 10 to 2.30 p.m. on Saturdays.

Many tourists on holiday deals to Lanzarote make sure they visit the Museum of International and Contemporary Art, housed in the old historic fortress, the Castillo San Jose. The art museum houses top quality and important paintings and sculptures by some of the leading artists in the modern art movement today. As well as an art museum, it also boasts a stylish restaurant that overlooks the main port of Arrecife. Admission to the museum is free and it is open every day from 11 a.m. through to 9 p.m.



Thursday 29 September 2011

What Does Lanzarote Mean to Me?


Lanzarote means different things to different people. Different memories, different experiences, different events. It's an island that offers so much to many different people - people who live there and people who visit on holiday.

The big draw to Lanzarote is the weather. Northern Europeans often jump on a flight down to Lanzarote during the colder winter months to get some sun and absorb some 'feel good factor'. The island doesn't really have a summer season as such as the resorts remain active pretty much all year long to accommodate the annual footfall of visitors.

People visit Lanzarote for more than just the weather though.¨

For me, Lanzarote is compelling. It has a mystique that surrounds it that creates an irresistible draw. I find it very difficult to put my finger on the exact reasons for this, but the contrast of simplicity and magnificence truly captures my ideals.

For many people that visit Lanzarote its about the main three resorts, which in themselves are all very different in terms of their appearance and offerings. For me a holiday is about a nice beach, nice food, a beer and a resort that has enough to create an atmosphere but not somewhere that is going to keep me awake at night. That resort is Playa Blanca.

Outside of the main holiday resorts Lanzarote is a gold mine of natural wonder and artistry. The Timanfaya National Park on the west coast reminds us back to the 17th and 18th Centuries when Volcanoes shaped Lanzarote as we know it today. Add on top of that the brilliance and imagination of the famous Canarian Artist, Cesar Manrique, and you have the perfect blend of man and nature.

For me, Lanzarote can be described as a timeless retreat. Yes, it thrives on Tourism which it bases its economy on, but it has managed to combine an importance balance of combining tourism whilst retaining its identity. Again, thanks to Manrique, you won't find many high rise buildings or billboards whilst driving around Lanzarote. Instead you will see quaint looking towns and villages of white washed buildings sporting green or blue doors and window frames.

So in summary, Lanzarote to me feels like home. It has a hold on me that I cannot truly explain. Yes, the weather certainly helps, but the way of life and the raw beauty of the island is quite amazing. It's a mixture of back to basics with current times. It's a blend of tourism with traditional Canarian way of life. It has a magnificent, yet humbling, history that remains prominent in attractions throughout the island. It's a place where you can step back, and remind yourself of what life is really all about.



Why Lanzarote is a Popular Holiday Destination in the Winter Months


We all know the feeling, when the clocks change in October and the nights start to draw in. The temperatures drop and come 5pm it feels like bed time! Just imagine what it would be like to escape to on a holiday to Lanzarote, where the temperatures are still around 23 degrees and the nights stay light until around 7pm!

Lanzarote is a popular winter holiday destination due to its all year round climate. Although there is a bit more rain during the winter months (although not alot compared to home!) the weather is generally much, much warmer than back here in the United Kingdom.

This is thanks to the fact that Lanzarote is just 80km from the coast of Africa and the Sahara Desert.

The south of the island of Lanzarote tends to be a little warmer than the north. The north, probably due to the open Atlantic and sharp cliffs that rise from the sea, is often cloudy, damper and a little cooler. Although it's only a small island it's amazing how different the weather can be in the different localities.

It is very possible to sit out on the beach, enjoying a very warm sun during November and December. It's a somewhat satisfying experience when you think back to your friends and family freezing in the U.K. winter months.

Although the days are very pleasant the evening temperature can drop a little, which means you probably need to pack a jumper or two in your suitcase.

It's amazing how much better a bit of winter sunshine can make you feel. Many people in the U.K. suffer from SAD syndrome that makes them lethargic and tired in the winter months. A short winter holiday in Lanzarote can give your body a boost during the winter months and revitalise your enthusiasm and energy. It may sound daft but it's certainly true!

There are not many destinations, within Europe, that offer you the winter weather of Lanzarote. The other Canaries offer good weather, but Lanzarote generally tends to be the drier of the islands.

We make an effort to go every year for a nice relaxing break before the madness of Christmas!



Why I Highly Recommend Lanzarote As This Years Holiday Destination


Lanzarote is very popular with holiday makers and tourists from all over Europe, and its easy to see why. The laid back culture, year round sunshine and unique volcanic landscape all make for a captivating and memorable week or fortnight away.

The landscape, a result of volcanic eruptions over 35 million years ago, may seem sparse, dry and barren to some, but for others it offers opportunities - a chance to get close to history and what was a very turbulent past.

Of course, it isnt just the history of Lanzarote that attracts the tourists. Tourism is a big part in the economy of Lanzarote and given how busy the islands only airport is, in Arrecife, its plain to see just how big a part it plays.

There are a number of large, very high quality hotels on the island, but for those who were thinking of spending a little less there is a huge selection of self catering complexes and private villas and bungalows available for rent. With low cost airlines making frequent flights to Lanzarote it is also very easy to get there. The flight time to Lanzarote from the UK is a shade over 4 hours and yet the difference in climate and temperature makes it feel like you are much, much further away!

When on the island the three main resorts certainly dont let the holiday makers down. There is definitely something for everyone from all night clubs to fine dining and bars. There is a huge selection of family friendly restaurants and establishments and the entertainment ranges from UK tribute artists to traditional Canarian acts.

Of course, one of the things that people go on holiday for is the combination of sun, sand and sea (and lets throw in Sangria for good measure). Lanzarote doesn't fall short in the beach department. The main resorts all have a number of large and well maintained beaches to choose from and although the sea can be a little cool at certain times of the year, it is usually crystal clear and ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts.

Still not convinced? If you want to do a little more than just lie around on the beach then why not take an excursion or trip to one of the attractions on the island. The Timanfaya National Park gives you a glimpse into the islands history. This volcanic park is made up of hundreds of craters and in places the temperature, just a few feet under the ground, can get up to 600 degrees! Other attractions that were born out of the volcanic past, along with a little creativity from the local, late artist Cesar Manrique are Jameos del Agua and The Green Caves. Along with Mirador del Rio which is a lookout over the Rio straights and to the neighboring island of La Graciosa.

And it doesnt stop there. There are so many things to do, for couples and families of all ages including extreme water sports, submarine trips, scuba diving, quad biking and much, much more.

Lanzarote, in my view, is the perfect paradise in which you are able to unwind, relax and escape from the real world.



Lanzarote - Leading Destination For Quality Holiday Villas and Apartments


More and more holiday makers from the UK, Ireland, Germany, Spain and elsewhere are discovering the dramatic yet serene beauty that forms a backdrop to the main holiday resorts on Lanzarote. It is now the Canary Island's second most popular island after Tenerife, which of course is much larger.

Most people will choose to stay in villas in Lanzarote, with villas in Playa Blanca particularly popular. This also applies to Costa Teguise, which also has a good range of all inclusive hotels, and is also renowned for water sports. Costa Teguise is located very near to the capital, Arrecife, and the airport.

There are also a lot of apartments in Lanzarote, with the highest availability of these in Puerto del Carmen, also quite near to the airport. Puerto del Carmen is well known for it's 'strip', the Avenida de las Playas, which is 6 kilometres long, and hosts a large number of bars, restuarants and night clubs where you can party until 6 am. Despite this, Puerto del Carmen is also very popular with families and older people - mind you, these days, they are sometimes the age group that party the most!

There are many attractions and places to visit all over Lanzarote, and all can be easily reached from your Lanzarote villas or apartment. The most famous is the Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, where the heat of the still-active (but dormant!) volcano is used to cook at the Restaurant that is at the heart of ther visitor centre. You can take an escorted coach ride around the park, and enjoy a fascinating narration about the last eruption of the volcano in the 17th century.

For many it will be the beaches that attract people to Lanzarote. They are truly spectacular, especially around Papagayo and Playa Blanca in the South, and at Caleta de Famara, in the wider North west of the island. The main resort beaches at Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca are very safe for bathing.



Industry in Lanzarote


Despite the lack of rainfall and poor agricultural soil, the people of Lanzarote contrive to produce onions, tomatoes and potatoes for export. Also grown are melons, peach, beans, lentils, chickpeas and maize. The wine of the island (Malvasia) is good, rather like dry sherry, and can be 17 percent proof. Sufficient is produced for it to be exported.

Until recently, Tenerife and Gran Canaria were the only islands with full holiday facilities. Now, Lanzarote is rapidly developing and it aims to attract holiday makers from every corner of the world. During the last twelve years, tourism has been progressing successfully and cruise ships are able to dock, car and passenger ferries arrive regularly. A modern airport in Arrecife provides frequent flights to the UK and the rest of Europe. Most of the tourist complexes are in the south, where the best beaches are found, but other holiday areas are dotted towards the northern end of the island. Luxury hotels, villas and apartments, restaurants and entertainments of international quality maintain a high standard. Much of the economy in Lanzarote is therefore generated around the tourist industry.

Practically none of the cultivation is irrigated in Lanzarote, so it must rely on what rainfall and moisture there is. The people of Lanzarote have overcome this difficulty by covering the soil with black volcanic ash (picon) to a depth of about ten to fifteen centimetres. The ash stops evaporation and also absorbs the early morning dew, which provides moisture for the underlying soil. The soil and ash have to be replaced every twenty to thirty years. All round the island, the pattern of the landscape is black ash, small volcanic humps and oases of neat white modern buildings, with green palm trees, making a graceful contract to the sharper outlines.

Fishing helps the Lanzarote economy. The fleet operates mainly off the neighbouring coast of North Africa. Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote is a busy port with a fish-canning industry and a huge desalination plant which is the life blood of this Canary Island, turning the sea water into much needed drinking water for daily use. Large salt pans at Junubio produce about 10,000 tons annually and most of it is used in the conservation of fish, though it is also refined and used for kitchen and table salt.



Holidays in Lanzarote


Lanzarote is very popular holiday destination with average daily temperatures ranging from 21°C in January to 29°C in September. The place is situated off the African coast, only 3 and ¾ hours by flight from London. Lanzarote offers year round luxury holiday choices, perfect for both summer and winter destination.

Lanzarote is a family friendly place and offers something for everyone. Its varied landscape and Atlantic location provides a selection of safe shallow beaches or dramatic swells. There are plenty of coastal activities to enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing and parasailing. Lanzarote Resorts have safe beaches and lots of activities to keep the kids happy. Lanzarote is attracted by couples who love shopping and nightlife. Puerto del Carmen has the busiest nightlife with pubs, restaurants and nightclubs. You can buy perfumes and cigarettes at cheaper rates as Lanzarote enjoys a special duty free tax status.

The stunning white sand beaches such as those at Playa Blanca and Papagayo attracts couples and families. Apartments are furnished very well and equipped with dishwasher, microwave and fridge/freezer. Leisure facilities include windsurfing school, tennis court, health and fitness centre, playground, pool and table tennis to make your holidays more enjoyable. Sands Beach Resorts offers well-appointed accommodation with apartments having modern amenities, including a kitchen, to ensure you an utmost comfort.

Lanzarote hotels provide a variety of recreational facilities, including private swimming pools, indoor Jacuzzis, clubhouses and tennis courts. All the staffs are cordial and helpful and it is pretty quiet and very relaxing.

If you are looking for a cheap holiday in Lanzarote, it will be better for you to go in early May or late October as this season is not so busy.



Wednesday 28 September 2011

Activities You And Your Family Can Enjoy During Your Holidays To Lanzarote


The exceptionally warm and dry weather of Lanzarote contributes largely to the incredibly fast growing popularity of the island among the tourists and it is little wonder that you have come to this site looking for information regarding Holidays To Lanzarote.

With a low level of rainfall, Lanzarote the fourth largest and most eastern of the Canaries group of islands enjoys a wonderful warm weather all-year round. The number of tourists visiting the island, either holiday-maker or sports enthusiasts is over a million every year. But amazingly, despite the heavy numbers of tourists arriving and a wide array of hotels, restaurants and shops sprouting in the island to cater for them, Lanzarote has been able to maintain its laid back and relaxed atmosphere you might be looking for. The laid back non tourist trap feel is due mainly to the strict implementation of its building and infrastructures plan, restricting the bulk of the tourists to the three main resort areas in one part of the island while keeping the other part as a rural idyll.

Though the south is the busier part because of the sprawling line of hotels and shops teeming with visitors, you will still be amazed at how organized and planned the infrastructures are. High-rise villas and infrastructure is discouraged, so generally, you will find an array of low-rise villas, none taller than a palm tree and mostly with a garden of tropical plants and flowers. Most villas are also furnished with a homely touch, a very ideal spot if you want to have peace and calmness on your vacation getaway.

Aside from being a peaceful paradise, there are actually a vast number of activities you'll enjoy while in Lanzarote. There are the numerous water sport activities that Lanzarote is famous for and you can go biking, horse riding, play golf or tennis, or if you are interested in history and culture, there are lots of excellent places worthy of a visit.

You can check the amazing Cactus Garden, there are over 1,400 various types of spiny cactus species that will surely fascinate you. The garden is actually a former quarry, transformed into an astonishing garden by the famous Spanish/ Canary Island artist Cesar Manrique who added unique artistic details. Lanzarote surely owes to Manrique most of its artistic tourist spots which have placed Lanzarote on the artistic historical map of the world.

As for getting around I definitely recommend that you get yourself a rented car if you plan to explore most of the wonders of Lanzarote.

The list of activities to indulge and enjoy during your Holidays to Lanzarote does not end when the sun goes down. There are lots of bars and clubs proving the party is still ongoing, with entertainment provided by live entertainments, from both local and foreign artists and performers, you can party the night out until 2 a.m. There are also Licenced Casinos that are open until 6 am. Certainly, you're going to have a great time during any Holidays to Lanzarote.



The Warmth and Charm of Lanzarote Holidays


It would be hard for a sun seeker to find a more perfect destination for their holidays than Lanzarote. Holidays on the most easterly of the Canaries are an opportunity for lazing on white sandy beaches, sampling the delicious local food and drink and taking in the gorgeous scenery. Lanzarote holidays are the ideal way to unwind.

The island itself is situated not far from the coast of North Africa, and as a result, enjoys year-round warm weather and low rainfall. In January, visitors can expect temperatures of about 21°C, rising to around 29°C in August. In an average year, just five and-a-half inches of rain falls in Lanzarote - holidays are unlikely to be a wash out.

Perhaps Lanzarote's biggest asset is its gorgeous sandy beaches, which boast soft white sand - despite the island's composition from volcanic rock. With a wide choice of beaches, from the busiest to the loneliest and most idyllic, tourists will have no difficulty finding the best places to relax or indulge their love of water sports such as windsurfing, snorkelling or diving. Among Lanzarote's most popular beaches are Playa Blanca and Papagayo, which attract individuals and families year upon year.

Lanzarote holidays are a great way to escape from the overdevelopment found in areas such as Spain's Costa del Sol - the island's authorities have banned high rise hotel and office developments, as well as billboard adverts, so the views really do stretch on and on. The only exception to the no high-rise rule is found in the island's main town Arrecife - in the form of the Arrecife Gran Hotel. Redeveloped a few years back, the impressive sight of the hotel acts as a landmark and, as the only tall building in Lanzarote, it is all the more noteworthy for its exclusivity.

With over three million tourists opting for holidays in the Canaries every year, Lanzarote is never going to be short of demand for its hotels, bars and restaurants. The enthusiastic testimonials that fill holiday websites and magazines are only a spur to this - as are the large number of UK citizens who have settled on Lanzarote to live; enough to make possible the production of an English language paper on sale six days a week.

Best of all for British tourists, Lanzarote holidays can offer some of the best deals online, both when it comes to cheap flights and great prices for accommodation. As far as flights go, budget airline Ryanair has recently made even more available. In October 2009, it began offering 39 new routes to the Canary Islands - 15 of which flew to Lanzarote, 16 to Gran Canaria, and another eight to the island of Tenerife.



Eco Friendly Holidays in Lanzarote


The ongoing (if unproven according to some experts) effects of global warming are causing an ever increasing number of tourists and holidaymakers to re-assess there choice of holiday destination. Coupled with the current economic squeeze (which will be here for some time to come) choosing a holiday destination closer to home can be both cheaper on the pocket and at the same time be more environmentally friendly.

As a major holiday destination the island of Lanzarote (which is in the Canarian archipelago) quite possibly at first glance may not appear to have altogether the best of green credentials, however, there are a number of ways in which it does well to beat other destinations hands down for holidaymakers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and remain environmentally conscious.

Air travel is said to be a major contributor to green house gases so to begin with the fact that the islands location is only four hours flight from the United Kingdom (and a little more for mainland Europe) means that it is half the distance, and therefore half the fuel consumption, of the Caribbean. That doesn't mean you have to compromise on the weather though, as Lanzarote can vie with tropical islands for all year round good weather. With an average of only twenty days rainfall per annum there is also no monsoon season to deal with, and you can enjoy day time temperatures of approximately 20º Celsius even in the mid winter months.

Across the island many of the self catering apartments and holiday villas on Lanzarote already use eco-friendly solar panels to produce heated water for their swimming pools as opposed to electrical heating, whilst larger consumers of water, which tend to be the leisure attractions such as the island's two golf courses, use recycled liquid to ensure that demand on the desalination system is minimised wherever possible. Alternative energy sources such as wind power are also popular, with commercially several large turbines generating a sizeable proportion of the island's electricity requirements and this is also reflected in the smaller turbines used by individual premises.

But it isn't simply businesses and accommodation on Lanzarote that adopt the green ethos and operate on a more eco-friendly basis. Eco friendly development has been in place for many years on the island and even the tourist attractions have been both planned and developed to work as much in harmony with their surroundings as is reasonably possible. This low impact ethos was the result of one man's visions, and as such his creative intervention in the island's development came just at the right moment.

The internationally renowned architect and artist, Cesar Manrique, was actually born on Lanzarote and returned to his home after a spell in New York in the late 1960's. His unique talents and his blend of architecture with art were employed in the creation of the seven centres of art and culture that help to provide visitors with an insight into the lives of past and present residents. These centres have been devised to be both visually appealing and environmentally sensitive so if you are visiting Lanzarote make some time to visit some of these modern but harmonious additions to the surrounding landscape.

However, Manrique's creations were only one side of this geniuses talents, he was also well ahead of the crowd and was instinctively tuned and had a perceptive vision of how tourism could if remaining unchecked would spoil the natural beauty of the island. Especially if unrestricted development was allowed to get a foothold. So he worked alongside the government of Lanzarote to ensure that any buildings constructed were only of a certain height and that advertising was banned from public spaces.

The combination of all of the above factors have turned Lanzarote into an ideal holiday destination for the environmentally conscientious. There are even several places to stay that run entirely on solar and wind energy, as these alternative sources of power have gained in popularity and effectiveness in recent years.

Eco holidays in Lanzarote are a true reality and are here to stay.



What to Do in Lanzarote


Lanzarote is a holiday hot spot island located 80 miles off the coast of Africa. The year round sunshine and glorious beaches make it one of the most popular Canary Islands. The Island is small at only 37 miles long but millions of people flock to Lanzarote each year.

Like all the Canary Islands, Lanzarote is a volcanic island and enjoys low rainfall and year round sunny climate. It is a favorite winter holiday destination. Parts of Lanzarote make for interesting scenery due to the recent eruptions in the 18th century. Some people have described the scenery as from another world.

The Lanzarote authorities are extremely strict about what can and can't be built in Lanzarote so don't let the lack of high rise buildings and billboards surprise you. The local landscape is stunning! Most people arrive at the island by airplane, with most of the travelers arriving from the UK into Arrecife airport. The airport is located on the south of the island in Puerto Del Carmen.

There are lots to see and do in Lanzarote from the wine museum to the Castillo de San Jose. The Castillo De San Jose now houses a restaurant and a modern art gallery and is a surreal place to wander around with military artifacts all over the building and surrounding grounds.

The Lanzarote aquarium is a must see site for any visitor. It is the biggest aquarium on the Canary Islands and features all manner of marine species.

To really see the island the visitor should hire a car. A car will allow you to travel around the island and visit the areas that the public transport simply can't reach. With the extra freedom you should have no problems visiting all of the islands beaches and secluded areas.

Lanzarote beaches range from black sand beaches to glorious white sand beaches. The black sand is due to the islands volcanic past. Puerto Del Carmen or Playa Grande as it is known, is one of the islands busiest sandy white beaches and is located just near the resort of the same name. The beach offers water sports and sun bathing as well as conveniences such as ice cream stands and public toilets.

Playa Blanca is located on the south of the island and has two of the islands man made beaches that are definitely worth a visit. These two beaches are glorious and have water sports such as banana boats and para gliding.

This is just two of the beaches that are only a half hour drive apart. Visit the rest of Lanzarote for a truly wonderful vacation.



Warning - Be Sure to Read This Article Before Making Any Lanzarote Travel Plans!


Dreaming of the perfect getaway? Consider a trip to Lanzarote, the easternmost Canary Island located just 80 miles off the coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. This remote island is famous for white sand beaches and volcanic landscape, a remnant from eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries. The island is owned by Spain, so brushing up on your Spanish prior to Lanzarote travel is always a good idea.

There are many beautiful accommodations in Lanzarote. The island features luxurious hotels, comfy bungalows and villas and rental apartments. Many resorts feature beach-front properties that put you just footsteps away from Lanzarote's gorgeous beaches. If the village lifestyle is more your thing, look for accommodations near the town of Macher, a quiet local village.

The best way to book Lanzarote travel is through a vacation club. By paying an upfront fee, you can access deep discounts to the island's best properties. As an added bonus, you will also receive discounts to luxury hotels around the world. With a vacation club membership, you can use membership discounts to return to Lanzarote for years to come or to explore other island getaways.

Once on the island, you will find activities to suit all lifestyles. Boat and fishing tours are popular choices for all tourists. The north coast of the island is known for surfing, sailing, windsurfing and power boat racing due to rougher seas and stronger winds. Tour operators provide hiking tours of the island's volcanoes, which give views of the area's lava tubes and caves. Of course, relaxing by the beach or pool is always a tempting option for those seeking a relaxing vacation.

Lanzarote is a great vacation spot for all types of families. Grab a vacation club membership, book Lanzarote travel and you'll be on your way to a dream vacation in no time.



Uniqueness Is vital for you to Efficient Business card printing


View the original article here

Tuesday 27 September 2011

Sunday 25 September 2011

Lanzarote Tourist


Many people come to Lanzarote for the weather and to relax by a pool or on the beach. However Lanzarote has far more to offer tourists than its fabulous climate.

No visit to this stunning volcanic island is complete without a visit to Parque Nacional de Timanfaya home of Lanzarote's only live volcano - Montaña Del Fuego. A trip to the National Park can be made by car or organized tour however it is not possible to drive "the lunar route" - the path made by lava from the last eruption. If you do drive to the park there are tour buses to take you on this incredible route with commentary in English explaining the history of the area. Whilst in the park you will witness three experiments to demonstrate that the volcano is still live. (I will not spoil this experience by going into any detail.) You will also see restaurant "El Diablo", set on top of the volcano and designed by Ceaser Manrique, the food served here is heated by Fire Mountain itself!!!

Ceaser Manrique was an architect who had a great influence on the island of Lanzarote from ensuring the lack of high rise buildings to the many cultural attractions on the island designed by him. Of particular interest are Mirador Del Rio (set in the side of a cliff forming a beautiful viewpoint of La Graciosa, the island off the north of Lanzarote), Jameos Del Agua and the Manrique Foundation.

Jameos Del Agua is a definite must see set in the north of the island. It is a natural lava tunnel that Ceaser Manrique has transformed into a spectacular setting. Here you will find a small underground lake, the only place in the world you can see the blind, white, albino crab! These tiny creatures usually live deep in the sea but were brought into this lake by volcanic eruption. The site also boasts a James Bond style swimming pool that was designed by Ceaser Manrique for the King of Spain and as such can only be swum in by him! This beautiful attraction also houses a Museum about volcanic activity worldwide and an auditorium with natural acoustics were concerts are held. At night Jameos Del Agua transforms into an ultra chic club.

It is also worth mentioning that literally across the road from Jameos Del Agua are the Green Caves - Cueva de los Verdes. These caves hold the secret of Lanzarote and were where the Canarians hid when Lanzarote was invaded by pirates. Well worth a look for those steady on their feet.

The Manrique Foundation was actually Ceaser Manrique's house which he created in five volcanic bubbles. This stunning architecture is very difficult to describe and has to be seen to be believed. The Foundation also has a lot of Manriques works of art on display. This said the Foundation will equally be enjoyed by those with little or no interest in art.

There are many other masterpieces of architecture and design, by Ceaser Manrique, on the island. Monument "Al Campesino" can be seen from the road near San Bartolomé and is a sculpture dedicated to the farmers of Lanzarote. Jardin de Cactus is a spectactular cactus garden near Mala with many, many species of cactus set in beautifully landscaped gardens.

One of the most attractive of Ceaser Manriques creations is the stunning LagOmar in Nazaret. This was once Omar Shariffs residence which he reportedly lost in a game of cards! It is not possible to enter the house but the grounds are now home to one of Lanzarotes finest restaurants, a couple of bars, a stunning swimming pool and beautiful grottos. This is a lovely place to sit with a drink and absorb your surroundings.

Aswell as all the aforementioned attractions Lanzarote has many beautiful villages such as El Golfo - with the green lagoon and black volcanic sand, Arrietta - with a beautiful beach, and Femes - high on a mountain with panoramic views. The island also boasts two picturesque marinas - Rubicon near Playa Blanca and Puerto Calero near Puerto Del Carmen.

On top of all this there are a variety of tourist attractions:

Rancho Texas is an excellent zoo by day, home to tigers, sea lions, birds of prey, crocodiles, buffalos and much more. The bird of prey display is particularly impressive with wings practically skimming your head - please don't stand up! At night the park hosts the islands country and western night with a fabulous barbeque, line dancing and lasso displays.

The yellow submarine - Submarine Safaris - goes from Puerto Calero and the forty minute dive is an experience for all the family over the age of two. You will dive to the sea bed and see a multitude of fish and marine life as a diver comes round the porthole feeding the fish.

Catlanza also goes from Puerto Calero and is a truly relaxing way to spend an afternoon. The catamaran sails up to the stunning Papagayo beaches where it anchors giving you the chance to swim, snorkel, have a ride on a jet ski or simply top up your tan.

It is also possible to get a day trip , or simply go on the ferry yourselves, to Fuertaventura so you can send a postcard home from a different island and confuse your friends and family!

So as you can see there is much more to Lanzarote than sun, sand and ............. sangria!!