Tenerife, Canary Islands

Imagine arriving on an island with the look and feel of a desert, the coastline of the Mediterranean and the cultural influence of Europe that leaves you breathless - that is the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain. I was very privileged to spend a few days here for our Gold Awards conference in September at the magnificent Gran Hotel Bahia Del Duque Resort. My first impression on arrival was a bit of mixed feelings but I left the island completely in love with a wish to return. There is something for all ages and interests. Hire a car and take a day trip to the capital of Santa Cruz to learn about the history of Tenerife, book a day trip to the winelands at the base of the volcano Mt Teide where you can do a bit of wine tasting and even stomp grapes or if your love is for the water take a kayaking excursion out to the cliffs of Los Gigalatos.

The highlight of my visit was a Whale watching catamaran cruise, we were blessed to encounter Sei Whales, Pilot whales and a massive pod of Dolphins who played and frolicked in the waters around us. For food lovers you can walk from your hotel to one of many of the lovely cafes and restaurants along the walkways next to the beaches for anything from light meals to fine cuisine, and some cocktails while watching the sun dip - a wonderful experience for the palate and senses.

You can get to Tenerife through cities in the UK and Europe and a short 4 hour flight down to Tenerife with one of the many low cost airlines. If you are looking for a destination with a difference then the Canary Islands should definitely be on your bucket list. On my return I fitted in a quick day stop in Paris, having booked myself L'Open tour hop-on-hop-off bus ticket I was lucky enough to see all of the must see sights and capture a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower. A whirlwind few days with a lifetime of memories.