Is It Safe to Travel to Tenerife?

Tenerife is a beautiful island located off the coast of Spain in the Canary Islands and is known for its sandy beaches and balmy climate. The island has long been a popular holiday destination for tourists from all over Europe who are looking to soak up the sun and explore the many attractions that the island has to offer. But is it safe to travel to Tenerife in the current climate? The answer to this question is a resounding yes. While there are obviously issues with safety anywhere you go in the world, in general Tenerife is safe, and taking a few sensible precautions should ensure your safety during your stay.Despite its welcoming atmosphere, there are unfortunately some criminal activities that take place on the island, including mugging and pickpocketing. However, if you stay alert and follow some key safety tips, you can avoid becoming a victim of these crimes.

Things to Consider When Travelling to Tenerife

Before travelling to any destination, it is important to take some extra precautions and make sure you’re aware of possible risks and how to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are some key things to consider when travelling to Tenerife:

Know Your Surroundings

As with any foreign destination, it is important to familiarise yourself with your surroundings and be aware of any potential risk areas. Tenerife is a generally safe destination, but being aware of quiet or less well-lit areas can help you avoid becoming a target for crime.

Keep Valuables Secure

Due to higher volumes of tourists, pickpocketers are more active in Tenerife than in other parts of Spain. It is therefore important to keep your valuables, such as passports and wallets, secure at all times and be alert when in crowded or touristy areas.

Choose Reliable Transport

When travelling between destinations in Tenerife, make sure you choose reliable public transport options or hire a licenced taxi. Avoid taking unlicensed taxis or public buses, as they can often be unsafe and far below the required safety standards.

Be Aware of Scams

As with all tourist destinations, there are unfortunately a number of scams that take place in Tenerife. These include street vendors claiming to represent popular attractions and offering discounts tickets, as well as money lenders offering loans and promising extraordinary interest rates. It is important to be aware that if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Whenever possible, book tickets online or through official channels to ensure you are getting the real deal and avoid interacting with strangers who may be running scams.

Tips for Staying Safe in Tenerife

To ensure your safety during your trip to Tenerife, there are some simple steps you can take:

• Keep your valuables secure: Make sure you keep your valuables such as wallets and passports secure at all times.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Remain alert when travelling around the island and familiarise yourself with any potentially high-risk areas where crime may take place.
• Choose reliable transport: When travelling between destinations, choose licensed taxi services or stick to reliable public transport options.
• Avoid scams: Be aware of strangers offering discounts for attractions or money lending schemes — if something sounds too good to be true then it probably is.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are certainly safety risks associated with travelling anywhere in the world — including Tenerife — generally the island is safe enough for tourists to visit provided a few sensible precautions are taken. By staying alert and following the safety tips outlined above, you can ensure you get the most out of your experience and make the most of your time here in Tenerife.For more information on safety tips for travelling to Tenerife, visit The Spruce’s website for more detailed advice.

The Insider’s Guide to Tenerife: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, often gets labeled as a ‘touristy’ destination. However, scratch the surface, and you will find a wealth of hidden gems and secrets that only the locals know. From off-beat attractions to unique experiences and scrumptious local cuisine, Tenerife has something for everyone. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some of the hidden gems of Tenerife and how to experience the authentic essence of this beautiful island.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Most visitors to Tenerife flock to the beach resorts for sun, sand, and sea. However, there is more to the island than just the beach. For instance, the Barranco del Infierno is a spectacular gorge located in the Adeje region. The hike to the waterfall is a must-do for any adventure lover. Another off-the-beaten-path spot is the Casa de los Balcones in La Orotava, a 17th-century mansion boasting unique Canarian architecture and traditional crafts. From stargazing at Teide National Park to exploring the abandoned village of Masca, there are plenty of hidden gems for adventurous travelers.

Local Cuisine: Savoring the Tastes of Tenerife

No visit to Tenerife is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The island is known for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and Canarian potatoes. For a taste of traditional Canarian cuisine, head to a guachinche; it’s a humble eatery serving simple, hearty food and locally produced wine. Another must-try is the almogrote, a cheese dip made with garlic and olive oil that locals eat with bread. Don’t miss trying the mojo sauce, made with red or green peppers, garlic, and olive oil, and pair it with papas arrugadas, small wrinkled potatoes boiled in saltwater.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into the Culture of Tenerife

Tenerife has a rich cultural heritage worth exploring. For example, the Corpus Christi celebration in La Orotava is an extraordinary event, where the streets fill with intricate floral carpets. The Fiestas de Mayo in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is another carnival celebration that locals eagerly anticipate. For art lovers, the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes is a museum featuring contemporary art from the Canary Islands and beyond. Another must-visit is the Ethnographic Park, located in Valle de Guerra, which showcases the island’s agricultural history and traditions.

Local History: Uncovering the Fascinating Past of Tenerife

Beyond the beaches and the resorts, Tenerife has a fascinating past that is worth exploring. You can explore the 16th-century fortresses and churches, such as Castillo de San Juan in Santa Cruz or Casa Lercaro in La Laguna. Another interesting spot is the Pyramids of Güímar, which comprise six rectangular structures that are still shrouded in mystery. The Museum of Nature and Man in Santa Cruz offers an extensive insight into the island’s history, anthropology, and geology.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

Tenerife has no shortage of unique experiences to offer. For instance, don’t miss the opportunity to go whale watching from the Los Gigantes cliffs, where you can spot a range of dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. For adrenaline junkies, paragliding over the south coast of Tenerife or diving in one of the many lava tubes surrounding the island are a must. You can also explore the Las Mercedes forest reserve, which is home to nine different ecosystems and offers exciting walking trails.

Conclusion

Tenerife is a beautiful island that has much to offer beyond the typical tourist spots. By exploring its hidden gems, savoring its incredible cuisine, and experiencing its rich culture and history, you can connect with the true essence of Tenerife and create unforgettable memories. So, book your tickets, prepare your bags, and be ready to embark on a journey of discovery that will leave you enchanted.