Traditions and culture in Tenerife

Despite having been a package destination holiday of choice for millions of British holidaymakers over the past few decades, the island of Tenerife retains a true Spanish feel, as well as its own unique identity.

Though now the principal island of the autonomous community of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has absorbed many influences over the years, having been in the hands of several countries prior to coming under Spanish rule.

This gives the lush and green north an interesting character, reflected in the local traditions, food and architecture, best displayed in the old harbour town of Puerto de la Cruz.

However, as much of the island boasts an empty volcanic landscape, modern tourism is the defining feature of today, with up to 1.6 million Brits heading to a cheap hotels, resorts and sun-soaked beaches each year for a Tenerife holiday.

In a drive to keep standards up and to maintain Tenerife's unique charm, the island's officials have fortunately decreed that any new developments must be of a certain standard.

Things to do in Tenerife

Tenerife is first and foremost a holiday destination for those looking for a relaxing break away.

Indeed, alongside the many beaches and secluded bays, most of which boast safe swimming, some of the most popular activities on offer include water-parks, animal parks and, of course, golf.

Most of the island's buzzing nightlife centres within Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with the small city home to some boisterous bars and nightclubs, as well as some surprisingly excellent theatres and art galleries.

However, anyone keen to get out and about, the mountainous centre of the island, which includes some now-inactive volcanoes, while those investing in a car hire are free to explore its many roads.

Weather in Tenerife

One of the major draws of Tenerife is its year-round warm climate.

While the beaches may attract sun-seekers by the million, the average temperature on the island never gets unbearable, with highs of 28 degrees Celsius relatively common during the summer months and 22 degrees Celsius as low as it gets in the winter, making it the ideal destination for some summer sun.

Destination checklist for Tenerife

The island of Tenerife has a population of 853,000.

Tenerife is due south of the UK and therefore there is no time difference.

The official currency is the Euro.

Spanish is the official spoken language, though English is widely spoken.

The island's international dialling code is +34.