The Canary Islands have been attracting visitors to their glistening shores for many years. Presented as a perfect island paradise package, it’s hard to see why anyone would not want to visit. Yet, even these holiday jewels have suffered at the hands of the economic crisis. Throughout 2009, falling visitor numbers have been continually reported and as the crowds disappear the islands have seized this opportunity to undergo a refresh. It is hoped by all that this will encourage more visitors and stimulate the economy. In the meantime, holiday-makers who want to take advantage of fewer crowds and cheap Canaries hotels would be advised to do so now.
When compared with the same time the previous year, visitors to the Canary Islands, including the popular Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, were down 15% between January and May this year according to a recent BBC report. An unfortunate combination of a weakening pound and the demise of certain major airlines and tour operators servicing the islands has contributed to the current problems.
The islands have not been sitting idly by, however. Local authorities are taking decisive action in the form of public investment of up to 120 million euros over the next four years to give the islands a ‘facelift’. They are not the only ones taking action, either. Hotels are using this time to improve their facilities to help prepare them for busier times. This form of reinvention has been identified as one way to combat the recent troubles and help restore the Canaries to the top of the holiday charts.
Future visitors to the islands will be able to enjoy the fruits of these labours. For now, tourists can enjoy great deals on Canaries hotels that are as low as £15 per person per night in Playa De Las Americas, Tenerife – and enjoy a quieter holiday experience at the same time.
