¿Cómo estás? ¿Que tal?
A little introduction
Gran Canaria is one of Islas Canarias' islands which overall is composed of a total of 8 major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa) and many smaller islands (Alegranza, Isla de Lobos, Montaña Clara, Roque del Oeste and Roque del Este).
Each island is unique by the type of crowd they attract and the activities they offer. This makes it crucial to wisely choose your island depending on your trip purpose. Gran Canaria, for example, is more likely to attract an elder crowd, families and lovers; whereas other islands like Tenerife attract young people because of the party atmosphere.
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Language: Spanish, few people speak English
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Currency used: Euro - €; ** life is not expensive though at least for vacationers**
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Visa requirements: They are part of Schengen so a Schengen visa will allow you to get there. (No visa needed for European, Commonwealth passports holders, American etc)
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How to get there: You can only fly there 🤷🏾♀️, I think some cruises also stop by
Islas Canarias, Spanish but African...
Yes, those islands have for long been fought over and the reason? Their proximity to the African continent and specifically to Morocco. If they were to belong to Morocco, it would make much more sense but you know colonization...
The little story says that the first inhabitants were the Berbers, an ethnic group mostly indigenous to North and West Africa. While visiting Gran Canaria’s historic village, you will find out some similarities to the African culture and history but also how close Islas Canarias' culture is close to the more general culture (Latino, African etc)
Ex: Lucha Canaria is nothing else than the Senegalese wrestling (the theory according to which all continents were once one makes more sense because you find this same practice within the Mexican culture: Lucha libre )
Laamb, Senegal
Lucha libre, Mexico
Lucha Canaria, Islas Canarias
Myths about Gran Canaria to cross off your list
1. It is expensive!
The notion of expensive or cheap is relative but I think we can agree that even though it is an island, it is still in Spain which is relatively cheaper than other European countries. In my opinion, Gran Canaria was an affordable holiday destination and should not scare you away. My family and I went during Christmas and we were happy with the quality/ price ratio.
++ I am of those who think you can make everything cheaper if you want to, so $ should not be a barrier. You do not need to break the bank to enjoy your holidays.
2. Another insignificant myth but important if you go in December
It is an island close to Africa BUT it does get cold, at least in December. It is not freezing cold but it is chill enough to get you sick, so do not forget your jacket or pretend to and shop in Gran Canaria 😊.
However, I was surprised by how efficient the transportation system was given that it is an island! There is always an easy way to get around the city either by bus or walking, and getting from one city to another is also quite easy.
From the airport, you can either take
>> a taxi (fare is usually 60 €+) to any part of the island
or
>> the bus, (quite comfortable to be honest) , for 7€ which will drop you at the main station and take you to where Las Palmas action lies: Santa Catalina
>>If you rented a car, you will be good. (Manual are cheaper than automatic unless you get a good deal with your car rental company)
UBER DOES NOT WORK IN GRAN CANARIA