Discovering Fuerteventura's unknown side

A vast majority of travellers know Fuerteventura as one of the most beautiful islands of the Canary Islands, as well as one of the largest ones in the archipelago (it's actually the second largest).

Two facts that, while they are true, (as true as its volcanic nature) they're just the very top of the iceberg when it comes to this spectacular island, highly historic and with an unknown, exciting side to it that very few are familiar with.  At Your Hotel Destination we like to get to know the destination in depth, so we'll take the opportunity now in February to help you discover some of these facts that no one else has ever told you about this island.

The majos (or mahos) of Fuerteventura

Very tall (men and women alike) and very sturdy, that's what the majos, or mahos, were like, the earliest inhabitants of the island of Fuerteventura (and Lanzarote as well). They were the natives on this island territory until the arrival of the Norman conquerors (the same people who were present there during the 15th century). The native inhabitants were farmers and fishermen.

The majos lived in austere dry-stone dwellings grouped into small, well-located villages and were known for their hunting skills. A fact that led to the disappearance of many native species.

The so-called Betancuria

Did you know that the first city on the Canary Islands was located on Fuerteventura? Yes, it's true. The first capital of Fuerteventura – and the archipelago – was known as Betancuria (also called Erbania). Founded by the Normans in the beginning of the 15th century (many believe in the year 1402), this city was a nexus for transport of goods and propagation of medieval Christianity.

The main points of interest (those that will lead us to the earliest days of the city's history) are the church Santa María Betancuria, the Franciscan convent San Buenaventura, and items collected and on display in the island's Archaeological Museum.

Where to stay on Fuerteventura

As well as the other islands in the Canary archipelago, Fuerteventura is the perfect destination for those wanting to combine rest with authentic leisure.

Even if there are many hotels of all kinds all over the island's geography, our recommendations are three hotels that stand out due to their excellent quality/price relationship and (of course) their location in front of the sea. They are: hotel IBEROSTAR Fuerteventura Palace el hotel IBEROSTAR Playa Gaviotas and the beautiful hotel IBEROSTAR Playa Gaviotas Park.

A thousand and one ideas for enjoying Palma de Mallorca in Winter

With exceptional weather and unique natural beauty, the island of Mallorca is one of those places that, although considered a "Summer destination", knows how to overcome the Winter and keep it at bay. A season that on the island shows itself as cold weeks but is a perfect time to discover corners of extreme beauty capable of taking us to another world, to another dimension, to one in which relaxation calls out to us.

Discovering the secret corners of Palma

Of all the places to discover on the island, the Serra de Tramuntana marks a place that continuously enthralls. A unique place of immeasurable beauty in which can be found such beautiful towns as Valldemossa, Sóller, Fornalutx, Biniaraix, Esporles or Deià. The best idea for the winter months is to discover these secret paths taking one of the excellent hiking routes that are highly recommended in Mallorca.

Climb to Alaró Castle

Although it can be tiring at some points, the climb to Castillo de Alaró is another one of those plans made in Mallorca that always feel good in the winter months. With the promise of enjoying a good homemade dish once you arrive at the castle, the tour is highly recommended for all those who have a camera permanently around their neck since the panoramas that this point of interest gives you are wonderful.

A walk through Sóller (the train, port and so on)

Few things are as charming as covering the journey from Palma to Sóller in his legendary wooden train; the train that crosses the heart of the island and goes through the leafiest Tramuntana. In addition to being able to enjoy the island’s unspoiled nature, this route gives you unique moments. The most outstanding of which is he crossing through the Valley of Sóller, a point where you can see hundreds of orange fields ... The area’s star.

The magic of local markets

Sóller, Santa María, Sineu or Pollença are some examples of those local markets in which the traditions and authenticity that has made Mallorca a world tourist destination are maintained. The best way to enjoy them is carrying a Mallorcan basket and first thing in the morning.

Where to stay in Mallorca?

Mallorca is a benchmark of high quality hotels so finding the perfect accommodation is not a problem. That said, there is nothing better than opting for quality to be certain to avoid surprises. We recommend the hotels that IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts have on the island, namely IBEROSTAR Playa de Palma, IBEROSTAR Bahia de Palma and IBEROSTAR Cristina

A family hotel or an "Adults Only"? The eternal question

Even more than comparing different prices and options and choosing one destination over another, traveling as a couple or with friends means deciding most importantly which hotel to choose. Although the important thing for a lot of people is the price, the reality is that choosing a hotel specializing in families when traveling as a couple or with friends can ruin the holiday in a matter of half an hour.

So, without further ado, once again the eternal question is whether or not to choose a family hotel or an Adults Only? Beyond the purely obvious, the different points of one hotel and another are not always clear, so today we will try to give you some basic ideas so that you can make informed choices.

Hotels for everyone

Just because a hotel has the label "family friendly" doesn’t mean that couples, friends or singles can’t access it. This label is based on the fact of having specific packages for those clients who travel with their family and with children and require very specific leisure and food offers.

An example, for you to understand better, could be the Garden Special Families package in which Garden Hotels customers can access the list of hotels with the family friendly seal, their calendar of events (for adults and children) and a lot of activities that are perfect for a unique family holiday.

These hotels also have specific services for children such as on adapted pools, specific menus and mini parks located in the hotel. Does this mean that you can ‘t stay there if you are on holiday as a couple? No, of course you can but you should be aware that there will be more music, more rhythm, more activity and more children than an adults only hotel.

Only for adults

The hotel market revolution in recent years has been the creation of hotels for adults only. These hotels from large chains, that can only be accessed once you have reached the age of majority, are characterized by their tranquility, their romantic touch and by offering a set of exclusive services to enjoy a unique holiday.

To perfectly understand the concept there is nothing better than getting to know about the package offered by the Garden Adults only from the Garden hotel chain. This idea will help you to be sure about the hotel and why not the leisure offer. The best thing is its location, its surroundings and its romantic rooms with views.

A sunny holiday season: Riviera Maya, Punta Cana or Tenerife

The month of December begins and with it comes the stress of not knowing what we are going to do at Christmas. The questions that are asked in any house are the usual ones: how should we spend it or where and with whom should we spend it. Although opting for a traditional white and very cold Christmas would be the most stereotypical (and therefore the easiest decision), there is nothing like breaking free from always doing the usual thing and throwing yourself into spending your holiday on the beach, in your swimsuit and well tanned.

They say that anything goes when spending an alternative Christmas ... Yes, really anything from a few days of relaxation in our country’s warm destinations (like the South, the Canary Islands or even the Balearic Islands) to crossing the pond to enjoy a tropical Christmas surrounded by coconut palms and sunsets on the beach.

Christmas in the Canarias: head to Tenerife

Yes, we know, it takes time getting used to going from a cold Christmas to one on the beach, so it’s a good idea to try the experience little by little and without leaving our country. The perfect destination is the Canary Islands. With Tenerife as the most complete destination (especially for those traveling with the family), the Canary Islands offer a few alternative days off in which to enjoy a holiday at more than twenty degrees.

Although there are several hotels that offer special prices at this time of year, there is nothing better than opting for a hotel full of extras such as the Hotel Catalonia Oro Negro. With a unique location (a few meters from the beach of the Americas and next to one of the best golf courses in the area), this hotel in the Catalonia chain is ideal for a family holiday or with friends.

Everyone to the Maya Riviera

The next step when deciding on a beach destination with lots of sun for these Christmas holiday is to choose a place like the Maya Riviera. With its kilometers of white sandy beaches, with its blue, temperate waters and its unique choice of things to do (such as enjoying a dinner on the beach or welcoming in the New Year in a pareo or Bermuda shorts), this destination is especially beautiful if you are hoping to spend a highly romantic Christmas.

For travelers looking for relaxation as a couple and for those who prefer to spend these special days with the family, there is nothing better than opting for a hotel like Catalonia Riviera Maya Resort & Spa; a hotel located in Puerto Aventuras with unique views that show all the beauties of the Caribbean Sea.

Punta Cana, a real Christmas

Another of those sea and sun picture postcard destinations that are found in the Caribbean is Punta Cana, one of the jewels of the Dominican Republic and a place in which to enjoy all the beauty that unspoiled nature has to offer.

Much more than just enjoying long walks between mangrove swamps or experiencing dreamy sunsets, a perfect holiday in Punta Cana starts with the ideal hotel. We recommend the exclusive Catalonia Bávaro Beach Golf & Casino Resort.

Three day plan for an Autumn break in Tenerife

With the arrival of the first below zero temperatures and with the summer holidays far away (more than we would like), is when we are seduced the idea of a quick break to warm places like the island of Tenerife. Although a lot of people have kept some holidays for these dates (since travelling is much cheaper then and there is a lot less hustle and bustle), the fact is that most of us have to make do with a quick break of 2 or 3 days to recharge our batteries.

The question is obvious: are three days enough to enjoy the island of Tenerife to the fullest? Yes, the answer is certainly yes, and even if you don’t try our small three day itinerary for this beautiful Canary Island. Take note:

Unspoilt Nature and History

Los Gigantes, island of Tenerife

Although it seems small, the island of Tenerife has its crumb; so it is very difficult to see it in its entirety in three days (especially since you have to eat, rest and do a lot of other urban visits). At this point it is necessary to choose to do what really interests and impresses us (though if you are already a repeat visitor you may want to investigate on your own). Some of the must-sees are listed below:

- The Teide National Park

- The cliffs of Los Gigantes

- Icod de los vinos

- Otovara

- Playa de las Americas

- Puerto de la Cruz

Eat like a Marquess

Another of those factors that attract both Spaniards and foreign tourists to the beautiful island of Tenerife is its gourmet food which in the Canary Islands is rich ... very rich.  It is possible to combine your visit to the main parts of the Island and at the same time give yourself gourmet treats. You can’t leave Tenerife without tasting delights such as ‘almogrote’, tuna in a marinade, meat with potatoes, rabbit in ‘Salmorejo’ or ‘mojo colorado’ and picón.

Traditional Shopping

Since you have to pack your case on the last day there is nothing better than using the time you have left to indulge in one or two little whims. On the Canary Islands handicrafts are a highlight so don’t forget to stroll around Puerto de la Cruz or the beachbars of Costa Adeje to carry home a piece of handmade jewelry.

Hotels for a short break in Tenerife

Hotels in Tenerife are of all colors, shapes and for all tastes. There are hotels for families, for couples or for a few days of relaxation with friends. Many of them, moreover, have unique views and really exclusive services, some of which we’ll show you in our new article.

IBEROSTAR Grand hotel Mirador: With over 1,000 meters of spa, the IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel El Mirador – being one of the jewels of Costa Adeje - is the best choice for those looking for relaxation that goes beyond the local strolls and gourmet tours.

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey: Those who prefer gourmet trips to Tenerife can do no better than to choose the IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey. This hotel has a cooking class in which to learn chef’s tricks and unique recipes.

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Salomé: The IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Salomé is our last recommendation.  It is a hotel with a unique setting located right in front of the sea.

Barcelona in October: appointments and events featured

One of those destinations that seems to come to life with the arrival of October is Barcelona. A naturally vibrant city, Barcelona offers a thousand and one different things to do such as a visit to the temple of the Sagrada Familia, the Paseo de Las Ramblas, neighborhoods like the Gotico or the Borne and coastal areas such as Barceloneta.

To truly enjoy Barcelona we should go a little beyond the purely monumental and the guidebook highlights. How can we do this? We can invest a few hours of our trip to savor the outstanding leisure events listed in the city’s Autumn program. Do you plan to give yourself a quick break to the Catalan capital and want to enjoy the best concerts and theater? We list below the most important events of the coming weeks:

International Manga Fair in Barcelona (picture: frikisviajeros.com)

Manga de Barcelona

Lovers of this genre will find the best Manga movies, the most legendary books or even unique gods for Cosplay fans in the Salón del Manga de Barcelona. This event, which takes place between October 29 and November 1 in Fira Barcelona is the perfect excuse to visit the other most authentic and personal side of Barcelona.

"Father" by Ernesto Alterio

One of the most important theater works taking place this October is presented by Ernesto Alterio in the Romea Theater. Entitled "The Father", this play is directed by Florian Zeller and other top actors take part.

The Gastromic Fòrum of Barcelona

If you love fusion cuisine and the most avant-garde recipes you can’t miss a date with Barcelona’s gastronomic Forum, ​​an event that will take place in Fira Barcelona from the 23rd to the 26th October and which will include everything from competitions to themed workshops including tastings, live cooking shows and courses taught by expert chefs and winemakers.

Hotels in downtown Barcelona

• Petit Palace Barcelona: Petit Palace Barcelona  is a charming hotel located a few meters from Paseo de Gracia and perfectly connected to the main areas of Barcelona. Ideal accommodation for those traveling solo, as a couple or with friends.

• Petit Palace Boquería Garden: One of the most prominent urban hotels in central Barcelona is the Petit Palace Boqueria Garden and yes ... it’s just a few meters away from the legendary Boqueria market.

• Petit Palace Museum: La Casa Garriga Nogues is home to the Petit Palace Museum, a hotel which is part of the Petit Palace chain and which offers WiFi, free bicycles and iPads for guests in every room.

Ole Tropical Tenerife, a perfect choice to extend the summer in Tenerife

Whether or not we’ve had a holiday, the truth is that saying goodbye to Summer is always difficult for everyone. With almost endless days, temperatures good as could be, cocktails full of flavor and delicious fruits, this season is the best for unwinding and relaxing but it is not the only one. What is the alternative? Autumn ... yes, it’s the new Summer.

Although temperatures are cooler and the days somewhat shorter (not as much as in the height of winter), Autumn is the perfect choice for those who haven’t yet taken their holidays or for those wanting some days to relax in the form of a quick break.

Which is the ideal destination? Tenerife, the island of eternal Summer. A destination where you find wonderful beaches, local crafts, volcanoes (like the well-known Teide) and gastronomy so scrumptious you want to lick your fingers.

Costa Adeje, Tenerife

With the destination already selected, choose from some of the many sun and beach hotels on the island. What’s our recommendation? Trusting in top chains like Olé Hotels, brands in which comfort, service, quality and price always go hand in hand; a string that is characterized by offering hotels like Olé Tropical Tenerife famous for its excellent location.

Located within walking distance of the Playa de Troya (one of the most beautiful of the Costa Adeje) the hotel Olé Tropical Tenerife is perfect for those who want to pass their time relaxing with family or friends since it has a children’s playground and a wide range of leisure activities with no shortage of live performances, dance sessions, cocktail tasting and so on.

The essentials of the island

Beyond its obvious volcanic beaches and traditions (we all know that the ascent to Mount Teide is part of the experience), the island of Tenerife is a place that never sleeps; one of those destinations where we find almost everything and there is no shortage of ‘Must sees’. These are:

- A visit to the popular Loro Parque

- Go up to the viewpoints of Anaga

- Enjoy the Orotava Valley

- Visit the historic site of Garachico