Description

Gran Canaria is located at the southeastern part of Tenerife, Spain. The climate and the landscape of this small island varies from one end to the other. The northern part of the island is likely to be cooler while the southern part tends to be temperate Because of its varying climate and landscape, Gran Canaria is popularly known as “Miniature Continent”. Gran Canaria is speckled with beaches, which are the main attractions of this island. Apart from beaches there are many places of interests including Palmitos Park, Arguineguin, a fishing village, Banana Park, Cueva Pintada, an archaeological park etc.

Shopping

Gran Canaria can aptly be termed as a shopper’s paradise. This small island houses an assortment of shops where tourists are left with spoilt choice of goods. CITA is one of the ancient and popular shopping complexes in Gran Canaria. This shopping complex offers everything at one stop. For the best porcelain articles travelers should not miss visiting Ceramica Mogan. Arting Canarias is the shop that deals with authentic local artifacts. Genuine electronic goods can be bought at Media Market as the goods are moderately priced here. A Tuesday Market is held where tourists can purchase vegetables to jewelry. Fancy jewelry, beach ware, alcoholic products, dehydrated fish and sculptures mark the best buys.

Restaurants

Dining is simply a pleasure at Gran Canaria, especially for meat lovers. Fish is the chief ingredient in most of the dishes. Travelers inclined to savor the best Italian cuisine should visit Café de Roma. Mexican menu lovers can really get fully packed at Cantina Corralejo. Local and global fish dishes are served at el Pescador, which is worth a try. Gamborinus deals with varieties of delicious local gourmet. Chinese culinary doesn’t feel out of place at Gran Buda. Other suggested restaurants include Terraza, Tu Casa, Munich II, Marina and much more.

Night Life

Gran Canaria is the place made for extensive party seekers. Night venues in the island get into life only at late hours and extend till early morning hours. There are everything a tourist can expect- discotheques, casinos, clubs, music bars, karaoke bars etc. Some suggested venues include Kasbah, La Floridita, Heineken and El Coto.

Activities

Canarian weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Here tourists can enjoy boat sailing, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, fishing, camel riding, jeep safaris etc. Those looking for much strenuous activities can indulge in hiking and mountain biking. Golfers will love Gran Canaria because there are many golf courses to entertain golfers.

Communications

The international access code for Spain is +34. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code. Pay phones are blue or green and coins or phone cards can be used. Phone cards are available at post offices, tobacco shops, and newsagents. GSM is operated through 900/1800 and covers the entire country by three telecom operators. Internet is accessible at internet cafes in most towns and resorts.

Contacts

Spanish Tourist Office, Madrid: +34 91 366 5477 or www.spain.info
Spanish Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 452 0100
Spanish Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7589 8989
Spanish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 747 2252
Spanish Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 3555
Spanish Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 344 3875/6/7
Spanish Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 283 9900
Spanish Consulate, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 472 5804
United States Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 587 2240
British Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 700 8200
Canadian Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 423 3250
Australian Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 353 6690
South African Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 436 3780
Irish Embassy, Madrid: +34 91 436 4093
New Zealand Embassy, Madrid: +34 915 230 226
Emergencies: 112/061

Currency

EUR

Attractions

There are many places of interests in Gran Canaria, which enthralls both adults and children. Palmitos Park is a massive bird sanctuary, where a traveler can witness birds of various species, especially flamingos. Being amidst nature this park offers excellent views of mountains and other magnificent views of nature. Arguineguin, a unique fishing village, retains its old values and charm. This ancient fishing village also houses a beach and a harbor. Other sites that are worth a visit include Banana Park, Cueva Pintada, an archaeological park, Jardin Canario, a botanical garden and many other sites, which really keep tourists stunned.

Language

Spanish

Language Description

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely understood in main tourist areas. Galician, Catalan, and Basque are spoken in the some areas.

Tipping

It is customary to tip 5-10% for most services rendered. 15% tip at restaurants is the norm, although bills are inclusive of service charges. 10-15% of the bill amount is paid as tips to drivers of metered taxis.