Canary Islands holidays versus those in Lapland

Every traveller has his or her own preferences. Some prefer rustic retreats to regions like Lapland, while others wouldn't dream of anything short of a luxurious resort vacation somewhere on the beach. Of course, both of these settings have their merits, and deciding which is best suited for you ultimately comes down to a matter of personal taste. However, most travellers tend toward the beach escape, as this sort of vacation usually offers a broader base of activities and entertainment options that cater to the masses. With this in mind, a person who appreciates the rugged outdoors will definitely want to make room for an excursion to Lapland. This stretch of Swedish, Norwegian and Finnish countryside features lush forests, fertile valleys and rolling hills.

Lakes crop up here and there, and many host rustic lodges. Activities in this area are seasonal and include anything from hiking through the hills to snowmobiling across the plains. It's also possible to catch the Aurora Borealis if you visit at the right time of year. But attractions like these are of little consequence to diehard beachgoers, for whom there is no substitute for visiting Tenerife, Lanzarote or Gran Canaria. This Spanish holding lies in the Atlantic off the west coast of Africa, and it is part of what is easily one of the most popular resort archipelagos in the world. Each of the seven major destinations has its own appeal. Gran Canaria is home Las Palmas and has some of the most advanced infrastructure. One of the most popular activities here is heading out to explore the sand dunes, which are reminiscent of those seen in the Sahara Desert. While here, you can also visit the historic architecture of Las Palmas' old quarter. Canary Islands holidays will also take you to Lanzarote, which is stacked with spectacular volcanic landscape and a few luxury resorts.

Timanfaya National Park is a popular daytrip destination. Fuerteventura features charming villages and its own set of natural parks, but it is best regarded for its beach resorts. But for most travellers who spend time in this part of the Atlantic, Tenerife is the best place to visit. This is the largest landmass in the archipelago, and it features a robust Spanish culture. Idyllic beaches lie to the north, and the tallest mountaintop in Spain is also found here. Festivals throughout the year only enhance the activities scene, and there's always something on. Mount Teide is even capped with snow during December and January, so those who long for a hint of winter but would rather not commit to Lapland can find it here. In any event, debating the merits of a cold-weather vacation versus those of a getaway to the Atlantic archipelago is ultimately moot. The fact is that there's plenty of time for both, and most travellers find that each type of retreat has its place. In either event, finding luxurious accommodation with all the creature comforts is no problem it all, so the decision of where to go ultimately comes down to weather and environment.