Located off the north-west coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are extremely temperate receiving sunshine throughout the entire year. The principal islands for tourists are Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Tenerife so searching any one of these islands promises something for everyone. The Canary Islands have been described by many as tropical paradises. Around ten million holidaymakers each year tend to agree with this view, and with this volume of visitors you can see how a property in the Canary Islands attracts so many. There is a very high demand for rental properties on the Canary Islands, particularly if the property is comfortable and well maintained Aside from these facts the Canary Islands offer an inviting mixture of stunning beaches, warm seas, incredible volcanic scenery and good nightlife... they really have all the things you'd like to have on the doorstep of your home in the sun!
The following is a summary of perhaps the three most widely known Islands in the Canaries.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest Canary Island. It is also one of the more developed of the Canaries having good travel and tourist infrastructure in place. Tenerife has great beaches and consequently a thriving tourist industry. The island caters to those seeking night life in bustling resorts and also has one or two more quiet spots that would be more likely to appeal to families or those seeking rest and relaxation.
Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a beautiful island that is also somewhat quieter and smaller than Tenerife. It has been protected from over development and so you will find that none of the buildings are higher than two stories. Also most of Lanzarote's properties are coloured white. Lanzarote's planners have also dictated that the skyline be free from advertising hoardings. Lanzarote has an average annual temperature of 22 degrees.
Gran Canaria
As one of the first of the Canary Islands to embrace tourism, Gran Canaria has a well developed infrastructure. Tourism is well established on Gran Canaria: it has lovely long sandy beaches, tropical vegetation and stunningly beautiful desert/dune areas. As with all the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria' weather is excellent providing year round sunshine. If you are seriously considering buying a property in the Canary Islands you will be spoilt for choice.

1. Just off the African coast, on the same latitude as Florida, The Canary Isles enjoys year round sunshine.
2. The Canary Isles is a short four hour flight from Britain, with more than 200 flights per week all year round from 30 different airports in the UK.
3. As part of the EU, your investment in the Canary Isles is protected by European laws and building regulations. Excellent medical facilities and schools, both English and Spanish are available at reasonable prices. British pensioners have access to reciprocal medical treatment.
4. With a British population of around 30,000 residents you have easy access to British foods, newspapers, television, books, however with the large Canarian population you don't have to go far to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
5. The cost of living is much cheaper here than in the UK.
6. From Mount Teide at 12,000 feet with its dramatic volcanic landscapes to the sandy beaches and lush tropical forests, the Canary Islands offer a collection of microclimates.
7. Every town and village in Tenerife has its own fiesta where giant paellas are cooked, lively Canarian music is played, and local handicrafts are demonstrated.
8. There are a number of first class restaurants in the countryside specializing in Canarian and Spanish food. On the coast in any of the fishing villages in the South there is a mouth-watering variety of the freshest seafood available. You can also find Thai, Indian, Belgian, French, Moroccan, Lebanese, Chinese, Swiss, German, Italian, Vietnamese, Mexican and Japanese.
9. Every type of water sport is catered for from big game fishing, excellent windsurfing and diving to sailing and angling. On land there are many golf courses, tennis and bowling facilities, stables for horse riding, aqua parks, zoos, nature parks, and there are wonderful walks and trails for all levels of hikers.
10. Ask anyone who lives in The Canary Islands if they have any regrets and the usual reply is that they wish they'd come here sooner. The way of life in the Canaries is more relaxed. People have more time for other people they smile more, feel healthier, are more active and generally get more out of life.

Population: 1,600,000

Capital: Las Palmas, Tenerife

Area: 7770 sq. KM

Coastline: 1553km

Language: Spanish

Local Currency: Euro

Ethnic Groups: Spanish, British, German, Moroccan, Algerian

Life Expectancy: 78.93

Major Religion catholic

Government Type: Parliamentary monarchy

Independence 1492 (expulsion of the Moors and unification)

Legal System: civil law system, with regional applications; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction

GNI per capita: $18,000 (2000 est.)

Main export: machinery, motor vehicles; foodstuffs, other consumer goods