TENERIFE

Tenerife is the largest and most populated island of the Canary Islands, a true corner of paradise that fascinates millions of visitors every year. Located in the Canary archipelago, off the northwest coast of Africa, Tenerife is an ideal destination for those seeking a mild and dry climate, spectacular nature, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Its climate, mild throughout the year, is one of its strengths: temperatures rarely drop below 20°C in winter and exceed 30°C in summer, thanks to its privileged position near the equator and the protection of the internal mountains. This makes Tenerife a perfect destination for any season.

The mild and dry climate

Tenerife’s climate is known for being particularly favorable, with an annual average temperature of around 23°C. Its geographical location makes it an island where winter is mild and summer is never excessively hot. Ocean breezes help maintain a pleasant atmosphere even in the hottest months, while the presence of Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, creates a kind of natural barrier that separates the wetter, greener areas of the north of the island from the drier, sunnier areas of the south.

The natural beauties of Tenerife

Tenerife is an island of natural contrasts that surprises with its variety of landscapes: from rocky coasts and golden beaches to green laurel forests in the mountainous areas. Among the most extraordinary natural wonders is undoubtedly Mount Teide, which dominates the island with its impressive height of 3,718 meters, making it the highest point in Spain. Teide, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the main tourist attractions and a symbol of Tenerife. The national park surrounding it offers hiking trails that allow you to explore impressive volcanic landscapes, with solidified lava formations, craters, and a panoramic view of the entire island. You can also reach the summit by cable car, offering an extraordinary visual spectacle. Teide is not just a natural icon but also an ideal place for astronomical observation thanks to the clear sky and its high altitude.

The crystal-clear sea and water activities

Tenerife is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, ideal for those who love the sea. Its beaches, both golden and black sand, are perfect for those looking to relax and for water sports enthusiasts. The calm and clean waters, along with favorable weather, make the island a paradise for surfers, windsurfers, kitesurfers, and sailors. Coastal areas like El Médano are famous for their constant winds, attracting athletes from around the world. Snorkeling and diving are also popular, thanks to the rich marine fauna and clear seabeds. The volcanic cliffs and marine reserves offer a perfect setting to explore underwater life. Tenerife’s beaches, such as Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, are also known for their calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

The tourist areas of Tenerife South

Southern Tenerife is the most touristy area of the island, thanks to its sunny nature and the presence of numerous resorts, restaurants, and activities for all types of visitors. Towns like Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Las Galletas are the main tourist centers. Playa de las Américas, in particular, is an ideal destination for those seeking fun, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment activities. The golden sand beaches are perfect for sunbathing or taking long walks along the coast, while restaurants and shopping centers offer a wide variety of leisure options. Costa Adeje is a little quieter but equally fascinating, with luxury resorts and a panoramic sea view.

In these towns, you can find a wide range of activities: from boat trips, which allow you to spot dolphins and whales, to jeep excursions, which take you to discover the impressive interiorscapes. Siam Park, considered one of the best water parks in Europe, is a must-visit for families and fun lovers. With its pools, slides, and attractions, the park offers a day of pure entertainment, but also the possibility to relax in green areas or sunbathe.

Excursions and other activities

Tenerife is not just about sea and relaxation but also an island rich in excursions and unique experiences. Besides visiting Mount Teide, other excursions can take you to discover picturesque mountain villages like Masca, where you can hike in enchanting natural settings, or to the Anaga Rural Park, a natural reserve that houses one of the oldest and most unique forests in Europe. Trails through the mountains and valleys offer spectacular views of the island.

For adventure lovers, the island also offers possibilities for quad biking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding. In Tenerife, you can also go paragliding for an unforgettable experience that provides spectacular views of the entire island. Lastly, there are also kayaking excursions, especially along the rocky coast, where you can discover hidden corners and sea caves.

Services and healthcare

One aspect that stands out is the quality of the services offered on the island, which meet high standards in various fields, from healthcare to transportation, and education.

The healthcare in Tenerife is one of the most valued aspects. The island offers a healthcare network that combines public and private hospitals, with modern and well-equipped facilities capable of providing high-quality medical care. The Spanish public healthcare system, which residents can access, is well organized and guarantees timely medical care at reasonable prices. Private hospitals and clinics are also easily accessible and offer a level of service that meets even the highest needs. In case of emergency, the emergency service is operational 24 hours and is easily accessible, and general practitioners are also easily contactable for routine or specialized consultations. The presence of numerous healthcare centers and facilities dedicated to rehabilitation and wellness ensures that the healthcare needs of residents are excellently met.

Eating and gastronomy

The gastronomy of Tenerife is another major highlight. The island has a culinary tradition that blends typical Canarian dishes with Spanish and international influences. Local restaurants offer delicious dishes prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients such as fish, seafood, meat, and fruits and vegetables grown on the island. Typical dishes such as papas arrugadas with mojo (salted potatoes served with spicy sauces) and gofio (toasted cereal flour) are just some examples of the local cuisine that can also be easily found in small restaurants and taverns. Tenerife also offers a wide range of international cuisines, satisfying the tastes of all types of visitors. Additionally, the island is famous for its local wines, which are appreciated worldwide, thanks to the quality of the grapes grown in its volcanic soils.

Transport network

The transport network of Tenerife is well-developed and allows easy travel across the island. The public bus system, managed by TITSA, is efficient and covers all the main tourist towns, cities, and smaller villages. Lines are frequent, even in the most remote areas, facilitating access to all parts of the island. For those who prefer private transport, renting a car is a convenient option, with numerous agencies available throughout the island. Additionally, the island has an international airport (Tenerife South), which connects it with major European and international destinations, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

General costs and tax regime, The tax regime of the Islands differs from that applied in the rest of Spain and is one of the most favorable in Europe, thanks also to the IGIC (Canary Islands General Indirect Tax), equivalent to VAT, set at 7%, well below the rates applied in the rest of Spain or many other European countries. This makes consumer goods, services, and economic activities more affordable, favoring good purchasing power for residents and even attracting international investors.

Bureaucracy and institutional assistance

One of the aspects that positively impacts those who choose to live in Tenerife is the simplicity of bureaucracy. The Spanish administrative system, and particularly that of the Canary Islands, is relatively simple and agile, with few bureaucratic procedures to obtain residency, work, or open a new business. Public institutions tend to be very attentive to citizens, and people moving to the island for work or retirement are welcomed with a series of services aimed at facilitating their integration, including language support, assistance with tax procedures, and access to social services.

Schools and education

The schools of Tenerife are another of the island’s strengths. The quality of education is high, both in public and private schools. For international families, Tenerife also offers numerous international schools that teach in English, German, French, and other languages, following the curricula of countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, or the United States. Public schools, which follow the Spanish educational system, are also of good quality and offer comprehensive education, with a special emphasis on language teaching and academic preparation.

Culture

Finally, Tenerife’s culture is a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. The island is famous for its traditional celebrations, such as the Carnival of Santa Cruz, one of the largest and most spectacular in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year. In addition to tradition, Tenerife is also a lively cultural center, with numerous events, music, art, and theater festivals that animate the island throughout the year. Museums, art galleries, and cultural centers are well-developed, offering opportunities to delve into local history and discover new forms of artistic expression. The local culture is enriched by the presence of a cosmopolitan population and numerous international cultural exchanges.

In summary, Tenerife is an island that combines a high quality of life with controlled costs, thanks to a high-level healthcare and educational system, an efficient transport network, a favorable tax regime, and a public administration attentive to citizens. A place where you can enjoy a calm and serene life without giving up cultural and professional opportunities.