Once known to the ancient Romans as the Fortunate Islands, the Canary
Islands were named after the large dogs (Canes) found living on the
islands. Located off the northwestern coast of Africa, the Canary
Islands are one of the most popular tourist destination on the planet,
especially with Europeans.
The seven islands that comprise the Canary archipelago. Their volcanic origin and special position in the
Atlantic ocean have granted them some unique features with regard to
geology and vegetation, resulting in a landscape that is unlike any
other found in Europe or Africa. These natural characteristics favour
the existence of a temperate climate with mild temperatures (22ºC -
72ºF average on the coasts) with little seasonal variation in
temperatures between day and night.
The climate of perpetual springtime, which permits enjoyment of
the beach during all the seasons of the year without extreme oppressive
heat, has also shaped the easy-going and good-natured character of its
inhabitants.
The appeal of the Canary Islands for most visitors, 50% of
whom return, is closely linked to the extraordinary climate of the
islands, but it also has to do with the more than 1,500 kilometers (930
miles) of coastline, the magnificent beaches, and the numerous sports
and water-related recreation available. The subtropical environment has
also provided the allure of volcanos, forests and other spectacular
scenery, with a variety difficult to imagine in such a small territory.
The people, their traditions and cuisine, inherited from a culture
blending traditions from Europe, Africa and the Americas, have also
played a large part. All of these factors have contributed to the
islands’ popularity, in addition to their easy accessibility, only a
few hours by plane from the great cities of the Old Continent, and a
complete tourist infrastructure, an example of quality for many places
around the world.
This article is written by contributors of world66.com, modified by travelers-online.com editors and licensed under a Creative Commons License .
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