The Beauty Of Tenerife

Tenerife is unique, having six distinct 'climatic zones' - this results in a diversity of plant and animal life rarely found anywhere else. Nature lovers will have a field day exploring the wonders of the flora and fauna of Tenerife.

What to Do and Where to Go

Singles, couples, working or retired, young or old, Tenerife beckons to all. For the sightseer, locations such as Los Gigantes, La Laguna and the Pyramids at Guimar top your list. The many festivals allow visitors not only a glimpse life on Tenerife, but also enables interaction.
The Pyramids at Guimar is very similar to those found in Peru and Mexico. The pyramids have been dated back to sometime in the 19th century. There is now an ethnographic park at the site. Visitors will find information on a Guanche cave found under the edge of one of the pyramids. There is also a small museum with information on the main researcher, Dr. Thor Heyerdahl.
Classical music lovers can plan to start their summer by being a part of the Music Festival of the Canary Islands. Held annually in June, the Music Festival is one of the major cultural events on the island.

If traditional folk music is more your thing, then September is the time to visit. The Sabandeno Festival features not only local Canarian groups, but also an offering from foreign groups as well.

A visit to Aquapark will be a hit with children. They will especially love Dolphin Lake where the popular dolphin show takes place. The thrill is multiplied with the number of rides and water slides available. Adults too can find a lot to keep them entertained for hours.

The highest point on Tenerife, El Teide (Mount Teide) is an official national park. From the point of this majestic mountain, climbers can view the lavic landscape. The brave souls who venture to the top can smell the sulphur from the now dormant volcano.

Not to be outdone, the black sand beaches of Tenerife are available year round for those taking holidays in Tenerife - many of these beaches have received Blue Flag recognition. (Blue Flag award is given to beaches that are not only environmentally friendly, but also well kept.)

Tenerife During the Recession

Tenerife is one of the few tourism destinations that seem set to weather the economic storm. Long known as the place for holidays, Tenerife has lost some of its pull. All this is about to change as the local government moves to bring the island back to its glory days.

Efforts are afoot to improve the physical infrastructure to bring it in line with more popular vacation spots. The Spanish government has earmarked over 300 million Euros for the regeneration of tourism in Spain and its territories. This means that some funds will be available in Tenerife for upgrading older hotels in Tenerife for example.

The new tourist attractions will serve to add to the allure of Tenerife. The almost year round perfect weather in Tenerife and breathtaking scenery continues to be popular. The beaches are an added attraction that beckons those seeking sun, sand and fun.

Most of the visitors to Tenerife are from the UK. Tourists from other European cities visit in droves as well. Apart from the economy, the weakening of the pound against the euro is also responsible for the declining number of tourists. This is all about to change if recent statistics are right.

Tourists looking to escape for a while from the turmoil of life will find it easy to do on this idyllic island. Natural beauty, calming breezes and serene oceans help to keep the maddening world at bay. Hotels are available to suit every pocket. The low cost flights to Tenerife also make holidays on the island affordable for most UK people.

Cyprus Holidays Hit By Europe's Tourism Slump

Cyprus tourism is suffering a steady decline with a bleak outlook. January 2009 showed a 7.1 percent decrease in the number of tourists visiting Cyprus, compared to the same month in 2008. The number of visitors flying in from Britain dropped 8.5 percent. German visitors dropped by 5.6 percent. Visitors from Greece fell by 4.1 percent.

It is no secret that the world's economy is continuing to fall by drastic amounts. The tourism industry is one of the strongest industries in the world. Like all other businesses, it is driven by consumers. Consumers are struggling financially, so consumer driven industries that provide nonessentials are the first to feel the powerful punch of failing economic conditions. Consumers around the world are looking for the best deals on travel and accommodation. Only the strongest tourism companies will succeed.

Cyprus Tourism

Cyprus is located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, east of Greece. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world at more than 2.5 million tourists per year. It is the third largest Mediterranean island. The year round mild climate makes Cyprus one of the best tourist destinations for a holiday, any time of year.



The primary spoken languages are Greek and Turkish. Because of the number of tourists who visit Cyprus each year, many people have made a point to learn other languages as well. English and Spanish are becoming more popular spoken languages. The beaches of Cyprus offer a great getaway from everyday life. The variety of resorts is sure to please even the pickiest tourist.

The rugged terrain of the Troodos Mountains stretches over much of the western half of the island. The Troodos Mountain range is made up of molten rock with many treacherous, jagged slopes. Cyprus is home to a wide variety of natural vegetation including conifers and broadleaved trees, such as cedar and oak.

Many of the streets and country roads alike are lined with native shrubbery or trees. The island itself is divided into four subdivisions. The largest part of the island is ruled by the Republic of Cyprus. The northern third of the island comes under the rule of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The United Nations controls the zone between the two.

The Cyprus holidays industry has had a very positive effect on the economy. The Republic of Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004 and officially adopted the euro as its currency on January 1, 2008. Cyprus' economy is one of the strongest in the region. The economy on Cyprus is operated on a free-market basis. Its highly developed infrastructure makes Cyprus a very inviting location for offshore business. The recent discovery of oil in the seabed between Cyprus and Egypt is expected to further increase the wealth of the region.

Economic forecasters expect the world's economy to begin a slow, steady rise by the second quarter of 2010. The effects of economic upturns will have a more noticeable impact on the tourism industry as consumers resume their travels abroad. Only time will tell how long it takes to get the world's economy back on track.

Ski Holidays Safety For 2010

The ski holidays season is over, but already bookings are being made for the 2010 season.

Here we look at how safety is more important than ever given the speeds skiers can achieve today:

Today's skiing technology has ramped up the speeds you can reach on the slopes. For novice and average level skiers, however, it is dangerous. Here are a few safety tips to keep you injury free on your next skiing trip.

Dress for the Occasion

Many people hit the slopes trying to look cool instead of trying to keep warm. Dress in layers and remove them as needed. Keep in mind that your clothes, including your mittens and gloves, will get wet as you ski. Picking the proper clothing is the first lesson in how to ski safely.

Wear a Helmet

While some people will not wear a helmet for fear of looking uncool, massive head trauma is far less cool than even the silliest looking helmet. Nearly every sport that involves the danger of injury requires the use of a helmet. Biking, football and baseball all make use of helmets. Wearing a helmet is the single easiest way to protect yourself when skiing.

Use the Right Equipment

Too often, people use high tech, fancy equipment designed for professionals when they are just learning to ski. The best way to make sure your equipment is suited to your needs is to check in with a pro shop before you start skiing. Especially if you are borrowing equipment from a friend, make sure a professional inspects it to ensure it is in good working order and suits your needs.
Check to make sure your bindings are latching properly. Also, be sure to inspect your tension gauges and heel plates. Ideally, your equipment should be serviced by a professional once every 10 days of use.

Know Your Limits

We are all tempted to push ourselves in sports. Performance in skiing is not gauged the same as running or swimming. Going as fast as you can is not the goal. When you are first starting out, simply attempt to make it down the hill uninjured. Build your speed gradually and sensibly. Keep in mind that an injury will stop you completely, so go at your own pace.

Keep on the Beaten Path

Skiing is meant to be adventurous. Resist the temptation, however, to make it dangerous. Stay on the marked paths and don't venture off by yourself. Listen to instructors when they tell you the proper procedure for going up and down the hill. A big part of safe skiing is simply following the rules and regulations set by the resort.

Start Gradually

Even if you are an advanced skier, you need to warm up. Just like any form of exercise, it is important to stretch and ease into safe skiing. Start on the bunny hill and work your way up to Daredevil Peak. There is no shame in starting slowly. You have the whole day during your ski holidays to impress your friends with your skills. Ease into your day by approaching skiing like any other workout and start with a warm up session.

Ski with a Companion

It seems like a solo sport. Skiing down a hill is not the best time for a long conversation with a friend. When you ski with a companion, though, you have someone looking out for your safety. Likewise, you can look out for the safety of your friend. Read up on ski holiday safety with articles and news on the internet.

Make sure you both have your cell phones with you. Be sure the phone batteries are charged up. Also be sure the phones are located in a safe spot where they won't fall out of your pocket and break. This will ensure you can find your companion if you get separated on the slopes.

A fun skiing trip is one that is free from injuries. If you learn how to ski safely, you will have a great time on your next skiing trip. Use your common sense and err on the side of caution to ensure your trip is filled with a few safe thrills instead of painful spills.

More details for European ski holidays is available at yourandorra.com and includes

French ski holidays

Swiss ski holidays

Austria ski holidays

Andorra ski holidays

Larnaca - The Gateway to Cyprus

The city of Larnaca on the island of Cyprus is known as 'the international gateway to Cyprus,' and is rich with history and beautiful sights. Her eclectic mix of old and new makes it a worthwhile addition to every tourist's list of places to visit.

Larnaca is located on the southeastern coast of the Republic of Cyprus. It is home to the island's largest international airport. This makes it a natural tourist destination, as well as a starting point for visitors who want to explore other parts of the island.

Larnaca, in addition to its international airport status, is also Cyprus' second largest port. It is well known for its pristine and captivating seafront. It's home to the Larnaca Marina, one of the island's four official seaports. If Larnaca is the "gateway to Cyprus," then the Larnaca Marina is the "window" on Larnaca. The busy port boasts a quaint village bustling with constant activity.

The city is actually one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. It was first settled by the Phoenicians. It is referred to in the Hebrew Old Testament, dating it back to somewhere in the first few centuries B.C. Originally known as "Kittim," the city's name was also interchangeable at the time with the whole island of Cyprus. It was also interchangeable in early Hebrew literature with non-Jewish cultures like the Romans, Macedonians and Assyrians.

Not only is it one of the oldest inhabited cities; it is also one of the oldest ports. The Hebrew Old Testament also makes reference to the "ships of Kittim" in the book of Daniel. Even in Biblical times the city was an important port and meeting place worthy of mention in history.

Larnaca is a veritable cornucopia of history, and evidence of its past civilizations still lies buried all over the city. Visitors to the region can view many of its unearthed artifacts housed at the six museums in Larnaca. The artifacts are a testament to the many cultures that have shaped the city and contributed to its current flavour.

The city is famous for its many cultural events. Festivals take place frequently and regularly. One its most well-known is Kataklysmos (Cataclysm) or Festival of the Flood, a three week festival that takes place on the seashore. Kataklysmos and other local festivals usually encompass music and dancing and, of course, food.

On the subject of food, traditional cuisine is a big part of the local culture. Visitors to the city will find a dazzling array of both traditional and modern cuisine and restaurants in the region. Many dishes combine old world Mediterranean spices, meats and seafood with modern ingredients and technology for dishes that are uniquely "Cyprus."

Ancient ruins are as plentiful as modern structures and even non-history buffs find these fascinating to visit. The ruins of ancient Kition are home to what remain of five temples from the 13th century. The area is also home to a number of stately and magnificent centuries-old churches, like the Church of Ayios Lazaros.

When you look at a map of Cyprus Larnaca is located centrally in proximity to a number of day trip and excursion areas. Ecologists and novice archaeologists can stay in the city and travel to more remote locations during the day to take in some of Cyprus' other sites. Its proximity to so much of nature and history is one of the many things along with the weather in Cyprus that make Larnaca Cyprus' "gateway." to a great holiday.

Tenerife Holidays Gets Hot For Summer 2009

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. The Canaries are located off the Northwestern coast of Africa. The climate mix of very warm Gulf Stream air and a cool Atlantic breezes makes this an ideal holiday spot. The beaches offer soft sand that alternates from black to gold. The remnants of long ago volcanoes have created an usual and diverse landscape.

Tenerife's capital city is Santa Cruz, which has a population of over 220,000. It is titled the island of the 'Eternal Spring' because of its agreeable climate. The variety of activities and excursions on this island is impressive. Hot air balloon tours are available, as are Jeep tours. Tenerife offers countless animal attractions and a lush botanical garden.

Tenerife features the celebrated Loro Parque. This impressive zoo features animals from around the world in natural settings. Each species resides in a habitat that is created through specialists and experts. Tenerife also features large water parks for families and these are often marked up on a map of Tenerife - the available swimming groups and scuba diving schools can provide a wonderful session of training for those who long to swim in the clear waters.

The volcanic activity has created a unique sea floor that scuba divers enjoy year round. Mount Teide offers visitors a glimpse from the highest elevation in the region. This towering mountain rises over 3,700 meters above sea level. You can quickly go from the comfortably warm temperatures on the sandy beaches to throwing snowballs at this peak.

The island features two predominant areas for visitors to enjoy. The southern part of the island offers the warm temperatures and tropical settings. The northern part of the island is smaller and less populated with milder temperatures. Visitors can find high quality man-made beaches around many of the large resorts.

Tenerife features a dozen Blue Flag beaches according to some blogs - these serene stretches have been analyzed and evaluated for cleanliness and environment friendly operation. Tenerife offers visitors five national parks for hiking, bicycling and walking. The scenery is unique and gorgeous.

History buffs will adore exploring the ancient Pyramids of Guimar. These fascinating six-step pyramids weren't formally discovered until 1998. The structures have an amazing resemblance to the Aztec and Mayan pyramids found in South America. There are six of these pyramids across the island. The locals dismissed these structures as piles of volcanic ash for centuries. It wasn't until specialists removed the debris and the structures were cleaned up that the world realized what an archeological find the island offered.

The Tenerife Opera House holds a Festival of Opera in English. The famous carnival festivities create a bustle of energy and excitement with crafts. Delicious cuisine is readily available in every village. The entire island engages in a variety of traditional celebrations.

The area around the lava runs has developed over time. This feature creates a natural grouping of colors and proportions that have welcomed a plethora of flora. A brief sampling of the vegetation naturally growing in Tenerife is:

* Silver Thistle

* Teide Broom

* Tower of Jewels

* Echium virescens

* Pterocephalus Lasiospermus

A complete variety of activities and thoroughly modern amenities ensure holidays in Tenerife will create memories treasured for a lifetime, and if the survey is right more people will be enjoying the Tenerife weather and history this summer.