Nothing elicits jealousy quite like posting sick pictures of your exotic island adventure in January! So, therefore, you’re all very welcome. However, the term “sick” has multiple meanings, and for this trip, it decided to show up in all forms.
The Canary Islands. Where the heck are they? Here’s a quick map.
The Canary Islands are located about 60 miles off the west coast of Africa and are actually part of Spain’s territory. They are known by many as the “Hawaii of Europe” because of the beautiful weather and unworldly landscapes. There are seven main islands and several smaller islands. The islands were formed by volcanoes and are comprised mostly of volcanic rock. Tenerife, the main island, is home to the world’s third largest volcano. Despite what you may think, the islands were not named after canary birds…the Canary Islands (or Islas Canarias) is actually Latin for the phrase “Island of the Dogs”! Woof.
The two largest and most populated islands are Tenerife and Gran Canaria. I chose to forego these islands and check out the lesser populated islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. These two are located in the Northwestern portion of the archipelago and were once connected. That was a long time ago.
Lanzarote
The island of Lanzarote was exactly what I was hoping for…space-like landscapes, scenic coastlines, and remote towns. It’s small enough to feel like you’re on an island. In one day, I explored the entire island by car. It only takes about an hour to get from top to bottom.
The black volcanic rock of the island is contrasted by pristine white buildings. It’s as if an artist sketched out a townscape but has yet to add color. Super rad. The rich blue and teal ocean also contrasts beautifully with the black and white.
I stayed in two different hostels: one in the remote fishing town of Orzola on the northern tip, and one in Playa Honda near the airport. Both provided a private room and sufficient accommodation for what I needed. And they only costed 30 euros and 55 euros, respectively. Although I didn’t get to see everything I wanted to on the island, here are a few of the coolest parts I did see:
La Geria Vineyards
The middle of the island is covered by miles and miles of grapevines planted in cone-shaped volcanic hollows. This growing system was adopted long ago because of high winds, lack of water, and infertile landscape. It’s a must-see if you visit Lanzarote (and no, you do not need to purchase a winery tour).
Jameos del Agua
One of the coolest caves I’ve ever seen. This set of volcanic tunnels were converted into an artistic tourism attraction by local artist Cesar Manrique. There is even a full auditorium in one of the caves where events are held.
Lago Verde / Laguna de los Clicos
There is a bizarre green lake located on the black sand beach of the El Golfo region. Nearby is a beautiful black-rock coastline with some super cool views and natural pools.
If I had more time, I would have ventured to: Mirador del Rio, Famara Beach, and Papagayo Beach.
Fuerteventura
Next, I hopped on a ferry to the island of Fuerteventura which is known for its beautiful beaches and surfing. The ferry was 20 euros and only took 25 minutes. I stayed in a surf hostel in the super cool town of Corralejo. This hostel was located on a street full of surf hostels, and it provided rentals for surfboards, wetsuits, yoga mats, and snorkeling. It was 60 euros per night, included a private bathroom, and free breakfast.
I spent most of the day venturing to the Corralejo sand dunes and beaches nearby. It was warm, sunny, and super windy (which is normal there). Pro tip: Boogie boards don’t work well for sand-surfing. The town of Corralejo was buzzing, so I spent some time at the local shops, restaurants, and bars. I would highly recommend staying in this town if you’re looking for a vacation spot!
Navigating Obstacles, Such as Probably-Covid
After a couple days of enduring what appeared to be a normal cold, I decided that canceling my nonrefundable trip wasn’t an option. However, when I got to the airport at the start of my trip, I started realizing that my “cold” wasn’t getting any better. After sleeping most of my flight, I landed with a discernible feeling: this feels a lot like when I had Covid…
Needless to say, I felt pretty shitty for a portion of my trip. At one point, I couldn’t get out of bed and questioned if I should just fly back home. However, things turned around relatively quickly, and I was able to do most of the things I wanted to do.
I dodged another obstacle, forgetting two important cards: California driver’s license and Spanish TIE card. Both could have gotten me into serious trouble, like not being able to rent a car, or not being allowed to board my flight! Thankfully, neither was the case.
My Spain phone service did not work in the Canary Islands, despite being the same country! WTF. Therefore, my phone was on WIFI-only mode. This was a huge challenge, but I managed to navigate the entire island with only street signs and directions! (How the heck did people travel before 2001?)
And finally, I fell victim to the overcrowded bus system in Fuerteventura. After visiting the Corralejo sand dunes and beaches, I waited 45 minutes for a bus that was too full to let me on. I decided to start walking back to my hostel (at this point, it was getting cold and I was still wet from jumping in the ocean). Somehow, I managed to hitch-hike a ride back to town…thank you Stefano for picking me up!
Despite all the obstacles, the trip was awesome. I would love to return one day and explore the other islands. Anyone want to join?
Plan your next adventure! I recommend checking out Going.com
That was awsome your trip to the Canary Islands, love learning about new places. So sorry that you were sick, hope it wasn’t as bad as the first time. You should be covid free for a while until a new strain surfaces.
We are having cold raining weather, but need it for the summer water. Greg is at home waiting for a good listing, Mark will keep him informed. As of now Aly and Darrell haven’t heard back on the offer they made last Tuesday which I find weird. The people were suppose to respond in 3 days. I guess they don’t care if they sell it.
Love you, grandma
Definitely not as bad as the first time! But it took me down a notch. It was still a great trip. You would really like it there. Thanks for the update! Keep me posted on everything else 🙂