First Day in Paradise: How tourists relax upon arriving in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a dream destination for millions of travellers each year. Whether visitors arrive from nearby European countries or after a long-haul journey, the first day on the islands is all about shaking off the travel fatigue and sinking into holiday mode.
From the moment they step off the plane, there’s a sense of warmth, both from the climate and the welcoming vibe, that sets the tone for a perfect holiday. While every traveller’s style is different, there are several common ways that tourists choose to relax and make the most of their first hours in this Atlantic paradise.
Settling into Accommodation
For many, the first order of business after arriving is checking into their chosen accommodation, whether that’s a beachfront hotel, a stylish boutique apartment, or a rustic villa tucked away in the hills. The Canary Islands cater to a wide range of preferences, from luxurious five-star resorts with sprawling pools to cosy, family-run guesthouses that offer a taste of local hospitality.
Once the keys are in hand or the check-in is complete, visitors often take time to explore their surroundings. This might mean unpacking just enough to feel settled, taking in the view from a private balcony, or enjoying a welcome drink offered by the hotel. There’s a unique pleasure in those first moments of arrival, standing in a sunlit room with the curtains wide open, feeling the warm breeze drift in, and hearing the distant sound of waves.
Entertainment Without Leaving the Room
Some visitors prefer to unwind through entertainment that requires no extra travel. Streaming a favourite show, playing video games, enjoying online casino gaming, or other forms of online entertainment can offer a low-effort way to relax before exploring the islands in earnest.
In particular, online casino games like slots and blackjack have become immensely popular in recent years. Bettors can now buy in and wager online not only with fiat currency but also using cryptocurrency like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The best crypto casinos online offer gamers enhanced anonymity, quick transactions and low fees and have seen massive growth because of these benefits. For many, enjoying entertainment from the comfort of their room is the ultimate way to go from travel mode to holiday mode in no time at all.
In the Canary Islands’ warm evenings, it’s also common for guests to sit outside on their balcony or terrace with a drink in hand, enjoying the ambient sounds of the night, perhaps the murmur of the sea or the faint music from a nearby square.
Exploring the Resort
Not everyone wants to spend their first hours horizontal. Many people, especially those with a curious streak, use their arrival day to get acquainted with the area. This could mean a casual walk around the local streets, noting shops, cafés, and attractions for later visits. In popular tourist towns, street musicians, colourful markets, and lively plazas create an immediate sense of place.
Some visitors enjoy finding a scenic viewpoint to take in the landscape, whether that’s overlooking the coast or gazing at dramatic volcanic hills. Even a gentle wander can help shake off jet lag and give a sense of orientation, making the days ahead easier to plan.
A First Taste of Island Cuisine
After travel, appetites often make themselves known. One of the joys of the Canary Islands is the abundance of fresh, flavourful food, and many holidaymakers head straight for a nearby café or restaurant. For some, it’s a light bite, perhaps a plate of papas arrugadas with mojo sauce or a fresh seafood salad by the water. For others, the first meal marks the true start of the holiday, with leisurely dining and a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing tropical juice.
Food in the Canaries blends Spanish influences with local traditions and African hints, and the relaxed dining culture makes it easy to ease into the pace of island life. Some visitors choose to head to bustling local markets, sampling cheeses, fruits, and sweet treats, while others enjoy the convenience of room service or a poolside snack at their hotel.
Relaxing by the Pool
For those staying in resorts or hotels, the pool often becomes the natural first stop. After all, it offers a holiday setting without the need to travel further afield. Poolside relaxation is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sunshine but prefer the convenience of on-hand facilities and the option of shade.
Some guests might order a cool drink, settle into a sunbed, and let the afternoon drift by. Others may prefer to alternate between a refreshing swim and lounging in comfort. For families, the pool can be an easy way to keep children entertained after the journey without committing to a bigger excursion.
The Pull of the Beach
For beach lovers, there’s no question about how to spend the first few hours. The Canary Islands are famous for their coastline, and the temptation to dip toes into the Atlantic is irresistible. Whether it’s the golden sands of Gran Canaria, the black volcanic beaches of Tenerife, or the pristine stretches of Fuerteventura, the scenery alone has a calming effect.
Some visitors make their way directly to a sun lounger, book in hand, letting the ocean breeze do its magic. Others can’t resist a quick swim, washing away the stiffness of the journey. Even those who aren’t ready for a full beach day might enjoy a sunset stroll along the shore, letting the rhythmic waves set the holiday mood.
Early Nights and Fresh Starts
For all the excitement of arriving somewhere new, the journey can take its toll. Some travellers choose to end their first day with an early night, ensuring they wake refreshed and ready to explore. With the islands’ pleasant climate, it’s often possible to sleep with the windows open, letting the fresh air and quiet create a peaceful atmosphere.
An early night also allows for a sunrise start the next day, perfect for catching the first light on the ocean or enjoying the cooler morning hours for activities like hiking or exploring.
The First Day Sets the Tone
However people choose to spend their arrival day, it inevitably shapes the tone of the holiday. Some prefer to dive straight into activities, others opt for a slow, restorative pace, but the common theme is a sense of unwinding and settling into the Canary Islands relaxed rhythm.
From the welcoming warmth of the accommodation to the irresistible call of the beaches and the gentle pleasures of a first island meal, the first day is less about ticking off a to-do list and more about letting the place work its magic. By the time the sun sets, visitors have already begun to feel the unique pull of the Canaries, an invitation to slow down, savour the moment, and truly escape.
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