The Canary Islands have been a hugely popular tourist destination for many Europeans, with the area attracting visitors from all over the continent. Germans, French, and even the Spanish flock to the region regularly to enjoy some getaway time, although the British lead in terms of visitor numbers.
According to data, Statista found that between four and five million Brits had continued to travel to the archipelago region throughout the 2010s before the pandemic hit. The region may consist of seven islands that help form it, but there are four destinations that are clearly favoured; Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
Further data shows that Tenerife is the most popular island in terms of inbound tourists, with over 2.8 million having been experienced in 2021. While this figure was not based on just British visitors, it was found that they accounted for much of the tourism across the island. Over 620,000 from the UK travelled to the island in 2021.
Travelling and holidaying are two incredibly popular pastimes for Brits, with many liking to enjoy this experience as much as possible. Some have even managed to combine it with other passions that they have, such as following their favourite sports teams, enjoying cultural activities, or even combining it with gambling activities.
There are examples in which some head to different locations around the world where they can visit casinos and play the variety of games that they have already been able to enjoy restriction-free at home on the list of available non-GamStop casinos that offer players a positive experience because of how safe and secure they are.
The Canary Islands is just one region that continues to appear as a choice for many British people, and there are a few reasons why this is the case.
Why are the Canary Islands so popular with British tourists?
Given the proximity of the islands, the ability to travel to them is one of the biggest reasons why they have proven to be so popular with Brits. For visitors travelling from London, it would take them around four hours on average. Flights are typically cheap and are available all year round, thus making them holiday-friendly for those with families or only able to travel at certain times of the year.
The Canary Islands also typically have great weather all year round, too. They offer warm conditions and nicer climates than the UK can typically offer, making them a great quick gateway location that does not cost a lot of money compared to some of the world’s other destinations.
Additionally, the islands are a great place to do a range of different things, too. They offer a host of different activities that cannot always be experienced at home. Visitors can sit around a swimming pool in January and bask in the sun if they wanted, rather than sitting at home in potentially freezing and snowy conditions. They can also go on hikes and explore diverse landscapes, including the Teide National Park in Tenerife, which is home to Spain's highest peak.
Those that opt for Gran Canaria can visit some of the most incredible beaches, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife; while Fuerteventura also offers its own wonderful beaches that can help tourists relax and enjoy life as they relax.
Lanzarote is also popular because of its landscapes, however, the island has recently caused an issue as its president claimed they “did not want British tourists” before allaying fears and stating “they are always welcome”. Brits do not appear to have been left deterred, either, as they continue to book holidays to the destination in their numbers as it was claimed to be “business as usual” for travel operators.
Brits will continue to head to the Canary Islands.
Given how popular the Canary Islands have been for British tourists over decades and decades, the region will always remain extremely popular. With a relatively short flight and an experience that can be inexpensive compared to other destinations, as well as a favourable climate all year round, there really is not a better place for Brits to go when seeking an escape from the dark and gloomy skies of the UK in desperation for sun, sea, and sand!
