So you are contemplating a short break or holiday in the sun, well you will not be let down if you choose Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain. As it is only about one hundred and thirty miles from the African coast (yet it is still considered European), so the sun and wonderful weather is just about guaranteed. Although it is a Spanish island, it still has that distinctive Canarian feel to it.

Though smaller than either Tenerife and Fuerteventura (about 30 plus miles across) Gran Canaria tourist attractions are enough to keep the most seasoned visitor happy. There are plenty of good beaches of fine white sand and wonderful rolling dunes to while away your holiday, whether you have elected for a winter or summer visit to get away from the cold northern winter.

Most of the holiday resorts and tourist attractions are to be located on the southern end of Gran Canaria island, where you will find plenty of good accommodation of every possible type available, all at very good prices, as the many millions of tourists every year will testify. You can holiday in some of the major towns such as, San Agustin or Playa del Ingles (this has become a favourite destination for gay tourists) and Maspalomas or choose one of the many less well known, purpose built tourist areas spread throughout the southern region.

When you get fed up lying on the beach or pool side, many and various day tours offer you the possibility to view some of the real Gran Canaria as it offers a very varied countryside and lots of interesting and sometimes spectacular features from the huge central mountain ranges to the sub tropical forests.

Typical holiday attractions for the whole family are also myriad on Gran Canaria, including aqua parks, botanical gardens, interesting local museums and theme parks. As you are never far away from the beautiful, clear blue seas, boat tours and energetic Gran Canaria water sports are plentiful in both style and type, so you could always attempt something a little different for a complete change, after all, you are on vacation!

One of the most popular delights of most vacations is to sample the local food and cafes or restaurants in Gran Canaria are plentiful and quite varied, with local seafood at the top of most visitors list. International style restaurants offer food for all tastes for the not quite so adventurous, plus small cafes, takeaways and fast food chains can be found in most areas. Many good local bars also purvey snacks alongside the very cheap drink on offer.

Flying to Gran Canaria is relatively easy now through the international airport with flights from all over the UK and Europe (both scheduled and charter) with typical flying times of just over 4 hours from northern European towns and cities. Airport transfer times are not very long due to the small scale of the island, but at high season times you would do well to pre book them well in advance to make sure.

Being a low tax island, Gran Canaria shopping is very popular with many real snips to be found, especially in branded electronic goods, jewelry, cigarettes and drink. Do not forget to keep an eye on your import allowances though, you do not want to get arrested on your way home.

For more holiday, tourist advice and help please visit Gran Canaria