European budget airlines have allowed more people to fly away on holiday, and for those who already took holidays overseas changed the annual two week break to that along with some shorter breaks during the year.

And the Canary Islands have benefitted just as much as anywhere else, with more people visiting this summer, and a good number expected over the winter months due to her well known good climate while much of Europe is shivering.

Recently revealed figures show that nearly half of those people flying to Gran Canaria for their holidays chose a low cost airline, and it was over half on some of the neighbouring islands.

Tenerife for example, received six out of ten tourists embarking on their Tenerife holidays via a low cost airline - and it wasn’t dissimilar for those taking Lanzarote flights.

Of the three most popular holiday islands in the Canaries, Gran Canaria received least tourists via the low cost carriers, but it was still nearly half of the total number of passengers who took flights to Gran Canaria in the first six months of the year.

Lower airfares have helped people who might not have otherwise been able to afford a holiday during the recent economic downturn, or had been worried about the costs while unemployment was rising, and without the cheap flights from the budget airlines the number of people taking Gran Canaria holidays over the last two years could have fallen a lot more than it did.

This winter some low fares are available for those wanting to take a holiday in Gran Canaria - the island is renowned for its winter climate and northern Europeans escape their winter for a week or two to enjoy the Gran Canaria weather.

Return ticket prices on easyJet for mid November for example can be had for as little as £65 return - with flights both ways at good times, not the early hours of the morning.

Even at Christmas - in the past the time when airlines were likely to charge the earth because they knew people would pay - a return flight departing December 22 from the UK is under £250. It allows far more people the option of spending Christmas in the sun should they want to.

Located off the coast of Africa and the third largest island in the Canary Islands chain, Gran Canaria is not far from Tenerife. Though it is the third largest of the islands, it’s the most populated. But don’t let that discourage you from choosing it as your holiday getaway. When you look at a map of Gran Canaria of the 230 kilometers of coastline, over 60 consist of exquisite beaches.

If you’re visiting you’ll find it’s a treasure trove of mountains, sand dunes and ancient monoliths. The terrain is diverse and offers opportunities for sightseeing by car, bicycle and foot. It’s often called a ‘mini-continent’ because of its diverse climatology. The climate varies so much from area to area that the island seems much larger than it actually is.

For Gran Canaria flights visit yourgrancanaria.net For those considering visiting there are independent videos to view on youtube

Crete Blog

If you’re considering a holiday on one of the Greek islands for this year or next, Paxos might be worth considering for a family holiday, or for a romantic getaway for couples.

According to Greek legendy, the island was created by Poseidon when he struck Corfu with his trident in effort to gain peace and quiet. The pebble beaches of Paxos are surrounded by sheer, precipitous cliffs that create scenery that is both breathtaking and expressive.

The sea around Paxos has vivid colours; it is pleasantly clean, clear, and cool. Dramatic fauna and flora are abundant, especially in spring. Ancient olive trees line the hillsides allowing the mind and senses escape to the treasure of comfort and beauty that awaits holidaymakers.

Seeing The Island

Paxos is charming and quaint and can be seen easily in a couple of days by motorbike or car. The three main towns on the island are Logos, Laka, and Gaios. All of which exhibit the classiul ac Hellenic Ionian style with bright and colourful homes lining the promenades.

The rural area environment has a landscape that features low stone homes surrounded by bountifnd lush gardens. There is always something beautiful to see and many photo opportunities while you’re sightseeing or walking. For those who like Crete holidays it’s familiar but at the same time unique enough to enjoy.

The three main resorts all have natural harbours - Gaios being the biggest and busiest.

Travelling further inland there are old churches and buildings and many hiking or biking trails if you seek to further explore the island’s rich history.

Hotels In Paxos And Things To Do

Travel around the entire island on a day or half day cruise. Picturesque wind-carved limestone cliffs, sculptural rock formations, and caverns line the way. Crystal clear, calm waters surrounding the island only add to the exquisite beauty. The weather and climate on Paxos is similar to the weather in Crete.

A bit of history from World War II is just off the island. Inside the cave called Papanikolis, a Greek submarine found refuge and hid during the war.

There is plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel and relax. This island is wonderful for holidaymakers seeking relaxation and to get away from the rest of the world. The locals are all very friendly and happily greet visitors. A spectacular sunset can be seen by traveling to Erimitis, a bar which sits above the cliffs of the west coast.

Paxos is a worthwhile day trip if you don’t have a lot of time, but want to escape for a bit. There are many hiking and biking paths that go around the island via trails, coves, and beaches. There’s a few travel sites that have a map, often the same ones that have a Crete map.

You can easily take in the unhurried, traditional, and tranquil Greek lifestyle. Many people visit this wonderful island because of the miles of pathways that lead to unspoiled, secluded beaches and coves.

Hotels in Paxos fill quickly during peak travel season. Villa holidays are popular. Many villas have private pools and various villa companies include Paxos in their brochures, James Villas for example.

The island also has two hotels that often receive rave reviews from happy guests. The island of Paxos might be small compared to some islands like Kefalonia, but it offers an intimate charm and beauty for those who crave quiet, peaceful relaxation. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern living and escape from it all.

More information about the Greek islands are available on social media like reddit

Tenerife has topped Cosmos Holidays sales chart with a 60% increase year-on-year, report traveldailyco.uk

Majorca, last year’s number one, is now fourth in the sales list with Florida and Turkey before it.

Other Canary Islands have seen bigger rises in sales, particularly Fuerteventura (250%), Gran Canaria (100%) and Lanzarote (40%).

Menorca

The Algarve, Menorca, Shaem el Sheikh, Zakynthos and Mexico are also within the top ten.

“Whilst early booking trends indicated that this summer was all about the Eastern Mediterranean, the improved strength of the Pound against the Euro has resulted in a last minute surge of bookings to destinations throughout the Western Mediterranean and the Canary Islands,” said Monarch Travel Group Tour Operations Managing Director Hugh Morgan.

“After the challenges of the past 12 months, confidence has clearly been restored in the market and it’s great to see holiday durations lengthening from last year’s seven and 10 night durations to the traditional 14 night breaks.”

Good news for those considering a Gran Canaria for September- leading tour operators Thomas Cook and Thomson have some great deals available - visit yourgrancanaria.net to access both of them plus First Choice.

As the Daily Express report:

HOLIDAY firms are set to slash the price of package deals by hundreds of pounds after a slump in bookings over the summer, experts said yesterday.

A focus on the World Cup and fears over travel disruption have left tour operators with leftover stock.

Discounts on brochure prices are expected to reach up to 70 per cent.

Even families hoping for a break before school starts in September could save as much as 50 per cent on a week in a European destination such as Tenerife.

TUI Travel, owner of Thomson Holidays and First Choice, yesterday revealed a two per cent drop in UK sales over the past three months, normally its busiest time of year.

And it announced the volcanic ash cloud disruption had hit its last-quarter profit by £105million.

Chief executive Peter Long added: “It remains difficult to predict how the later-booking pattern will change over the next 12 to 18 months in the light of the current economic environment.”

A spokeswoman for TUI confirmed there would be “great value deals” during autumn. Among its best was a week on the Greek island of Rhodes in October, starting at £189 per person.

Thomas Cook was also expected to record a drop in sales today.

Long-haul holiday firm Hayes and Jarvis said the downturn in summer sales would mean a “glut” of heavily discounted deals, bringing down the cost of travelling to exotic countries in the Far East to under £500.

Could this really be right - that women spend £200 more on their holiday wardrobe than on the holiday itself?

Apparently so according to a new poll and reported on by the Daily Record.

Feel free to let us know by leaving a comment whether you spend more on clothes than your Gran Canaria holidays.

FROM flip flops to sarongs and evening dresses to bikinis, many women spend more on a holiday wardrobe than the trip itself.

It seems that heading for foreign climes, or even simply taking a staycation in the UK, is all the catalyst most women need to hit the shops.

A London Clothes Show poll revealed the average woman spends around £200 more on the contents of her suitcase than the cost of the break.

Despite the fact they probably bought the same holiday togs a year earlier, most girls will still kit themselves out with new swimwear, shoes and summer cover-ups.

We put the findings to the test with two Scots women who love their holidays but have different opinions about just how much cash they need to splash before they hit the airport.

Adele Cunningham

The Clyde 1 DJ loves shopping at the best of times but getting ready to go on holiday simply gives her even more of an excuse to hit the shops.

The 31-year-old, from Glasgow, said: “I am always shopping and, if I am honest, most of my wages go on clothes and shoes.

“I have been doing a lot of fashion shows recently as well and I always end up buying everything I see.

“I am not going on holiday next until October but I have already started buying things I see that I think will be nice for my holiday.

“It wouldn’t surprise me in the least if I end up spending far more on stuff to take on holiday with me than the holiday itself.”

When planning what to pack in her suitcase, Adele doesn’t just think about new dresses, shorts, tops and swimwear, she wants to make sure she has all the perfect accessories for when she hits the beach, the shops or the nightlife.

She said: “I have already bought lots of bikinis and maxi dresses. I am loving maxi dresses at the moment and I am thinking about the usual kaftans, sandals and jeans.

“But I also think it is important to have the perfect beach bag, the right sunglasses, evening bag and even things like scarves and things for my hair.

“I just feel it is important to look and feel nice when you are away, especially if you are with your boyfriend.”

Given that Adele takes a bulging suitcase with her full of brand new clothes, shoes and accessories, you would think that when she has finally arrived at her destination she would take a break from buying.

Not Adele though - a holiday is simply another opportunity to shop.

She said: “I went away with the girls for a week to Gran Canaria earlier this year and ended up buying another eight pairs of shoes. They were just sandals and wedges but I had to pay an extra £30 just to get them home because my suitcase was so heavy.

“I know I will be bad when I go to Florida as well, even though I will have spent a fortune before I go.

“I will probably ask my boyfriend Callum to take a half-empty suitcase with him so I can fill it up.

“I know it is all a bit silly, too, because I know I will never wear half of it while I am over there.”

At least Adele admits she is pretty good at clearing out her clothes and giving away lots to charity.

She said: “We are just moving into a house with three bedrooms and each one has mirrored wardrobes which I know I will fill with clothes and shoes.

“I do clear out quite often and give stuff away, even if it has never been worn.

“I am bad for buying something then finding myself going back and looking at it hanging in my wardrobe and thinking it is too good to wear, which I know is daft.” To read the full article and another example click here

Viva Espana! Struggling Spain is bouncing back with increased bookings, according to a report in the Daily Mirror.

After reports that Brits were still shunning the Costas to save money, online travel and leisure retailer lastminute.com this week revealed that destinations in Spain and the Canary Islands are among its biggest-growing breaks year on year.

Gran Canaria has seen the largest boost, with bookings up 479%. Fuerteventura has also seen many more visitors in 2010, bookings were up 340% compared with July 2009.

The other Canary Islands have also seen visitor numbers rise – Lanzarote is up 132% and Tenerife by 92%. Mainland Spain has also attracted more visitors than in 2009, with bookings to the coastal region of Costa Blanca up by 160% this year.

Spain has historically been popular with UK holidaymakers but bookings were hit last year due to the strong euro.

Lastminute.com’s Mark Bower says: “We’re thrilled to see Spain and the Canary Islands back in our best sellers.”

There’s a part of Gran Canaria that has become known by holidaymakers visiting the island as ‘Little Venice’ – the village of Puerto de Mogan.

Away from the bigger resorts it’s a haven of tranquility and still has the air of a traditional village, but with the advantage of good modern accommodation with both a hotel and self catering accommodation available.

Puerto de Mogan’s similarity to the Italian city of canals is no accident. The vision of the designers of the beachfront part of the city was to re-create the quaintness of Venice in a Spanish environment.

It’s located on the southwestern coast of Gran Canaria. The island is the second largest most populous in the Canary Island chain. Visitors from Europe, the UK and further afield for its sunshine, beaches, charm and rich culture.

The island is home to over 800,000 residents. It sees well over twice that many annual visitors. Tourism is an important part of the economy.

A majority of tourist activity takes place along the eastern coast of the island. Much of it is centered around the capital city of Las Palmas.

The western side is less populated and concentrated. This is one reason that Puerto de Mogan’s developers decided to adopt an Italian theme. Created by an Italian designer, it’s one that is unique to the island.

Visitors to the beachside downtown area will be hard pressed to find a motor vehicle of any kind. Instead, Puerto de Mogan caters to the pedestrian.

Designers created arched walkways reminiscent of many Italian cities. Visitors can stroll the bricked walkways which link the town’s shops, restaurants and quaint residences and hotels.

The real nod to Venice, though, is the town’s canals. They run through the village and out into the marina area which opens into the Atlantic Ocean.

While many of Gran Canaria’s popular resort towns feature modern high-rise buildings. This was another deliberate design choice by town visionaries.

The main hotel sits comfortably in the surroundings, and for those considering a week or two’s holiday it can be booked in the UK via Thomson Holidays or independently.

No buildings exceed two stories tall except for a small handful of older ones. Any modern construction is limited by law to two stories or less. This feature adds to the unique charm of the beach town.

Locals survived for centuries on fishing. The city is still home to many native fishermen. However, most of the economic activity comes from tourism in today’s world.

Daytrippers tend to stick to the waterfront area of the city. Tourists who want to stay for a spell and spend a little bit less money can venture further inland. Away from the pricey, tourist driven restaurants and boutiques, visitors can find more authentic cuisine and homier accommodation.

The village is family friendly, with activities for people of all ages. For swimming and sunbathing it’s fairly sheltered, so the water is warm and currents are gentle, helped by the good Gran Canaria weather.

Other popular water activities include snorkelling, boating and jet skiing, as well as surfing if you venture a bit further out.

Puerto de Mogan is widely well known for her Friday market. The open air market draws hundreds of locals as well as tourists every week. Shoppers can find just about anything, from hand made clothing to native produce, fresh fish, and locally made craft and gift items.

A visit to to see Puerto de Mogan is well worthwhile if you’re not staying there during Gran Canaria holidays - most of the coastal towns are connected by a highway.

Some of the eastern towns are even connected by ferry for ease of travel. It’s time well-spent, whether it’s a day trip or a longer stay.

For a Gran Canaria map visit yourgrancanaria.net

Comments from people who have been to the island are often posted on social network sites such as mixx

studentsinEurope.com - a site for American students - recently ran an article for their readers about the Canary Islands, and had this advice for Gran Canaria:

Gran Canaria: This is the largest in population and the capital of the Canary Islands.

Rum: How can you go to an island without trying the local rum? The Canary Islands have loads of factories, though the island of Gran Canaria hosts the most well known. Try the island specialty, ron miel — a sweet liquor made from rum and honey — if you’re feeling adventurous.

To stay: While the Canary Islands are well known for their resorts and high class hotels, most students and cheapskates are better off staying at a hostel. And why not? You’ll meet fellow travelers, be more likely to find the best party in town and save loads of money while you’re at it. Here are some of the top rated on the islands:

Centro Internacional de Windsurfing (Gran Canaria): If you love water sports but can’t afford to pay for Gran Canaria hotels and do all your adventure sports, this is the hostel for you. At $20 a night, you’ll get access to their swimming pool, WiFi, TV room and more. They also have their own windsurfing and diving school on the premises, and their location on one of the best windsurfing beaches in the world makes it an ideal hostel for outdoor adventurers.

Hostal 7 Soles: If you want to stay right in the city of Gran Canaria without busting the bank, the Hostal 7 Soles is probably your best bet. At $27 a night, the hostel might lack atmosphere, but you’ll be right next to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and within walking distance to the city’s best clubs and bars. The rooms are clean and linens are included. Plus, there’s a TV room, free Internet, and a swimming pool. Not so bad, if you ask me.

A blog for the other Canary islands of Lanzarote and Tenerife are also available at yourlanzarote.net and yourtenerife.net

There was a good article at http://golfholidaybreaks.net and it’s worth paying them a visit if you’re considering visiting Gran Canaria for a golf holiday - they commented:

Gran Canaria island has the second most courses in the Canary Islands, with seven full courses, most of which are located on the southern side of the island. The Maspalomas course is probably the most acclaimed course on Gran Canaria and a contender for best course on all the islands, boasting some very challenging terrain with some of the largest sand bunkers of any course around the world.

Melenaras Golf has become a popular course also and is situated right on the Atlantic Ocean, offering amazing views throughout the year. There’s more detailed information in our Golf Breaks in Gran Canaria guide.

Tecina Golf is a highly regarded course on the small island of La Gomera. It is the only golf club on the island, but offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and the gorgeous Barranco de Tapahuga. Tecina Golf is considered a great course for a relaxing afternoon game. To read the full article click here

An interesting article appeared on parisaround.com recently about Masapolmas recently, and they commented:

At the southern tip of Gran Canaria the island’s most popular holiday resorts, Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas sit side by side. Playa del Ingles is the larger and caters predominantly for low budget package holiday tourists whilst Gran Canaria is a more upmarket and quieter resort.

Although the two resorts join at the eastern end of a beautiful, four mile stretch of sandy beach, they are separated inland by a 250 hectare area of sand dunes. The area is a nature reserve and habitat for several rare species of flora. Some dunes are over ten metres high and when you are in the deep valleys between them, it is easy to imagine that you are lost in a vast area of sandy desert. In reality, most of the dunes area is more like a fertile oasis and there is even a large lagoon of great ecological value. It is an important nesting site for many species of birds.

One novel way of exploring the dunes is from the back of a camel. The rides are a popular tourist attraction that takes you through a picturesque section of the dunes, starting and finishing at the camel station that is within easy walking distance of the centre of Maspalomas.

The beach itself is divided into sections and has blue flag awards. The nearest section to Maspalomas is the family section. Further on is the naturist section and beyond this is a section used by the gay community. All sections have areas where beach parasols and sun-loungers are set out for hire. There are also several beach bars for each section but the beach is so huge that the buildings do not spoil its natural beauty.

The sea is of course, the Atlantic ocean, and very big waves are common. The beach can also get very windy at times but this southern tip of Gran Canaria enjoys warm sunny weather the whole year round so it is unusual for a day in Maspalomas not to be nice enough to enjoy the wonderful beach and be able to take a dip in the sea.

Maspalomas has a delightful promenade that is full of bars, shops, and restaurants. Many of the shops are designer stores and boutiques and two five-star luxury hotels are to be found very close by. There is a fabulous choice of reasonably priced restaurants in the area, several providing free live entertainment whilst you eat.

Although Maspalomas does not offer the same level of vibrant nightlife as its neighbour, Playa del Ingles, what it does offer tends to be more sophisticated. As well as bars with live music in the form of jazz, salsa, and a wide range of pop, there are also several bars providing karaoke fun. Most of the nightclubs offer free entrance, although their drinks can often be quite pricey.

A holiday in Maspalomas offers plenty of sporting activities. Whale and dolphin spotting boat trips are available as well as game fishing safaris. Golfing holidays are popular and there is an excellent, eighteen hole golf course bordering the dunes nature reserve.

For families, the nearby Aqualand provides over thirty water-slides including a gigantic one known as the Tornado which has appeal for adults as well as children. To read the full article click here

For more information about Gran Canaria holidays including a map of Gran Canaria visit yourgrancanaria.net