Tenerife - The Canaries: Finland'S Favorite Getaway

Finnish tourists who want to escape from the dark, cold days of winter are increasingly finding a tropical escape in the Canary Islands. The nearly year-round sunshine is one good reason to visit the Spanish islands for the Fins.

The convenience of a common currency is another good motivator to put away the parka and head south.

Since about 1/3 of the Gross Domestic Product of the Canary Islands comes from tourism Euros, Finns can count on being catered to. Plus it's hard to resist the Islands' allure of miles of sparkling white sand beaches.

Beaches aside, the Canary Islands are rife with other natural wonders to include in their itinerary.

The landscape of the island of Lanzarote is so unusual, it has been referred to as "lunar." Because its terrain was shaped by volcanic eruptions, it's as if Lanzarote is on another planet entirely. The warm, dry climate that appeals to sun seekers produces a geography that has seen little erosion over the centuries. The result is a landscape that has remained virtually unchanged since the volcanic eruptions that molded Lanzarote's surface.

After a day of taking in the breathtaking beauty of the island, tourists can dine and dance in one of Lanzarote's famous night clubs. Playa del Carmen is known for the best party spots that cater especially to music lovers. Bringing the kids too? There are many places that also welcome families.

Tenerife, a favorite with Finnish tourists, is another of the Canaries that should not be missed. Many of Tenerife's tourists choose the resorts of Los Christianos or Playa del las Americas in southwestern Tenerife. The entire island, however, boasts world class hotels and eclectic B & Bs, so you'll have no trouble finding accommodations that suit your taste.

Another of the Canary Islands' famous volcanoes, Mt. Teide, is Tenerife's most well-known landmark. Though it has lain dormant since 1909, evidence of Mt. Teide's power is still apparent. Cable cars are available so visitors to Teide National Park can ascend this ancient mountain. Those who are a bit hardier and have a knack for adventure can make the 3,718 meter ascent on foot. No climbing gear is required. In fact, the only route allowed is a marked and well-worn path that carries hikers on a 6-hour trip to the summit.

Teide National Park is also home to some 30 species of animals, including several that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The dry heat, high altitude, and varied landscape of the park make its flora and fauna truly wondrous sights to behold.

Tenerife also holds a broad appeal for the recreationist. Golf lovers can try for a hole-in-one on any or all of its nine courses. Northeast trade winds make the island an exceptional location for sailing, windsurfing, and kite surfing. Hiking trails and bicycle routes snake around the island for an up-close view of Tenerife's beauty. And of course, the blue-green sea water and tropical temperatures are perfect for a relaxing, refreshing swim.

With regular flights into both Tenerife and Lanzarote, travel to the Canaries for Finnish tourists is convenient and simple. For Finns who want to leave the chill of winter behind and find a dose of paradise, the Canary Islands are perfect for a winter getaway.