Category: Uncategorized

  • Want a website for your Lanzarote business?

    Want a website for your Lanzarote business?

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    Lanzarote landscape

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  • Jet2 discounts and promo codes – updated 6 March 2026

    Jet2 discounts and promo codes – updated 6 March 2026

    Save £75pp on all Summer 2026 holidays – limited time only, no promo code needed:

    Click here to book now

    Couples save £200 on city breaks until 31 March 2026

    Families save £400 on all Indulgent Escapes until 31 March 2026

    Groups save £600 on all Jet2villas until 31 March 2026

    Single parent? Book here and use promo code J2HSPF60 if not automatically applied. Until 31 Dec 2026.

    Solo traveller? Use code SOLO30 here. Until 31 Dec 2026

    All “until” dates are booking deadlines, regardless of dates of travel.

    All packages include: return direct flights, 22kg luggage, transfer & ATOL protection. Most hotels include breakfast or there are some great all-inclusive options.

    Plus, Jet2 fly from convenient UK airports such as Nottingham, Leeds, Luton, Stansted, Edinburgh and from April 2026, Gatwick. As well as having ATOL protection, you will have a rep who visits your hotel during most stays, a UK-based call centre to handle any questions you may have and a handy app where you can view your flight, check-in, add extra services and more – download it here.

    Can’t decide where to stay? See my hotel reviews here.

  • Lanzarote Holidays 2026

    Lanzarote Holidays 2026

    Please note that when a holiday falls on a Sunday, it is often “moved” to the following Monday. Here are all the Lanzarote holidays for 2026:

    DateHolidayType
    January 1 (Thu)New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo)National
    January 6 (Tue)Epiphany / Three Kings Day (Día de Reyes)National
    February 17 (Tue)Carnival Tuesday (Martes de Carnaval)Local/Regional
    April 2 (Thu)Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo)Regional
    April 3 (Fri)Good Friday (Viernes Santo)National
    May 1 (Fri)Labour Day (Fiesta del Trabajo)National
    May 30 (Sat)Canary Islands Day (Día de Canarias)Regional
    August 15 (Sat)Assumption of Mary (Asunción de la Virgen)National
    September 15 (Tue)Our Lady of the Volcanoes (Patrona de Lanzarote)Island Holiday
    October 12 (Mon)Spanish National Day (Fiesta Nacional)National
    November 2 (Mon)All Saints’ Day (Observed)National (Moved)
    December 7 (Mon)Constitution Day (Observed)National (Moved)
    December 8 (Tue)Immaculate ConceptionNational
    December 25 (Fri)Christmas Day (Natividad del Señor)National

    Local Municipal Holidays

    Each municipality in Lanzarote also selects two local holidays. These are usually centered around the town’s patron saint.

    • Arrecife: August 25 (San Ginés).
    • Teguise: July 16 (Virgen del Carmen) and August 5 (Nuestra Señora de las Nieves).
    • Haría: June 24 (San Juan Bautista).
    • San Bartolomé: August 24 (San Bartolomé).
    • Tías including Matagorda and Puerto del Carmen: February 2 (Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria).
    • Tinajo: June 24 (San Juan Bautista) and August 16 (San Roque).
    • Yaiza: July 7 (San Marcial del Rubicón) and September 8 (Nuestra Señora de los Remedios).

    Key Travel Tips for 2026:

    • Long Weekends (Puentes): Because many holidays fall on Tuesdays or Thursdays (like Epiphany and the December holidays), many locals will take a “bridge” day off to create a 3 or 4-day weekend.
    • Closures: On these dates, most banks, government offices, post offices and some local shops will be closed, though tourist-heavy areas like Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca will often keep shops and restaurants open. Hotels will operate as normal.
  • How do I navigate Lanzarote’s public transport system?

    How do I navigate Lanzarote’s public transport system?

    Buses are the main form of public transport on Lanzarote. Here are some useful phrases, as not all bus drivers speak English:

    • Intercambio = interchange
    • Estacion = (bus) station
    • Cambio = change
    • Pago con tarjeta = payment by card
    • Parada = (bus) stop
    • Fuera de servicio = out of service
    • Dias laborales OR lunes a viernes = Monday to Friday
    • Sabado = Saturday
    • Domingos y festivos = Sundays and public holidays

    The system is managed by IntercityBus Lanzarote. Here is everything you need to know to get around like a local.

    1. Essential Tools for Planning

    • The Website: ArrecifeBus.com is the official site for timetables and route maps.
    • The App: Download the IntercityBus Lanzarote app (available on iOS and Android). It provides real-time “next bus” information and allows you to check your balance if you buy a travel card. You can also use Google Maps for bus times and journey planning.
    • Mapping: While Google Maps is generally reliable for routes, always cross-reference with the official app for the most accurate weekend or holiday schedules.

    2. Buying Tickets & Fares

    Fares are distance-based, typically ranging from €1.40 to €4.00.

    • Cash: You can buy single tickets directly from the driver. Important: Drivers usually cannot give change for notes larger than €10. Therefore, it is advisable to have some coins or a 5€ note ready.
    • Contactless Card: While some newer buses are rolling out debit/credit card readers, it is not yet universal. Carry cash as a backup. If you can pay by card, avoid foreign exchange fees but still use your own bank with Curve.
    • The “Bono” (Rechargeable Card): If you plan on taking more than 3 or 4 trips, buy the General Transport Card (Bono Bus).
      • Cost: €2 for the card, then top it up with €5–€50.
      • Benefit: It gives you a 10% discount on all fares and can be shared by multiple people (just tell the driver your destination and tap for each person).
      • Where to get it: At the main bus stations in Arrecife or Playa Blanca, or directly from many bus drivers.
      • If you’re a resident on the island, find out if you could get free public transport.
    Find your best hotel deal with ZenHotels

    3. Major Routes for Tourists

    Most routes radiate from the capital, Arrecife, or the Airport.

    • Airport (ACE) to Resorts: * Route 22/23: To Arrecife and Playa Honda.
      • Route 161/261: To Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.
    • Between Resorts: * Route 03: Connects Costa Teguise, Arrecife, and Puerto del Carmen (very frequent). However, you may need to change at Arrecife Intercambiador when travelling from Arrecife airport to Costa Teguise. Check notices, ask the driver or use Google Maps. Buses only depart from Terminal 1. However, all international flights operate out of this terminal. Terminal 2 is only used for inter-island flights, and is within walking distance of Terminal 1.
      • Route 60: Connects Arrecife and Playa Blanca.
    • Special Sunday Service: * Routes 11, 12, 13, and 14: These run on Sundays specifically to take people to the famous Teguise Market.

    4. Tips for a Smooth Ride

    • Wave the Bus Down: Buses will not always stop unless they see you clearly signaling (a simple hand wave).
    • Exit Strategy: Press the “Stop” button before your station. You must exit through the middle/rear doors, not the front.
    • Accessibility: Most buses are modern, air-conditioned, and have ramps for wheelchairs and strollers.
    • Timing: Buses are generally punctual, but frequency drops significantly on weekends and public holidays. Always check the “Sábados, Domingos y Festivos” column on schedules.

    Pro-Tip: If you want to visit Timanfaya National Park or the Jameos del Agua caves, public buses are limited. For these specific sights, a guided tour or a rental car is usually more practical than the “guagua.”

  • Got family visiting you? Check Lanzarote arrivals here.

    Got family visiting you? Check Lanzarote arrivals here.

    Check real-time flight arrivals at Arrecife airport here

    https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airports/ace/arrivals

    Flight delayed by 3 hours or more? Try AirHelp to help you get the compensation you may be entitled to.

  • Why are there so many cats in Lanzarote?

    Why are there so many cats in Lanzarote?

    High Reproduction Rates: Cats are very efficient breeders, capable of producing multiple litters per year. In a warm climate like Lanzarote’s, with a long breeding season, a lack of population control can lead to exponential growth in the number of stray cats. A single unspayed female can contribute to a large number of offspring within a few years.

    Abandonment: Unfortunately, some pet owners abandon their cats, especially around tourist areas or when they leave the island. These abandoned cats then contribute to the stray population.

    Lack of Widespread Neutering and Spaying: While there are dedicated animal welfare organizations on Lanzarote that implement Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, the scale of the problem often exceeds the resources available. Historically, and sometimes still, there hasn’t been a comprehensive island-wide effort to sterilize a significant portion of the free-roaming cat population.

    Food Availability: Tourist areas, restaurants, and even well-meaning tourists sometimes provide food for stray cats. While done with good intentions, this food source can sustain larger populations of cats and encourage them to congregate in certain areas.

    Climate and Environment: Lanzarote’s mild climate allows stray cats to survive year-round without the harsh conditions faced in colder regions. The volcanic soil can also resemble cat litter, making the environment more accommodating for them.

  • Did you know this about César Manrique?

    Did you know this about César Manrique?

    Art and Nature in Harmony: Much of the island’s aesthetic appeal is due to the work of Lanzarote artist, architect, and environmentalist César Manrique. He successfully campaigned to prevent high-rise development, which is why the island’s buildings are mostly low-rise and whitewashed, creating a visually pleasing and harmonious environment.

    • Cultural Attractions: His influence can be seen in cultural centres where art is seamlessly fused with nature, such as Jameos del Agua, the Mirador del Río viewpoint, the Cactus Garden, and his former home, the César Manrique Foundation. The airport is also named after him!

  • Review of Barcelo Teguise Beach, Costa Teguise

    Review of Barcelo Teguise Beach, Costa Teguise

    In January 2024, I was lucky enough to have enough hotels.com credit to book this hotel for one night with breakfast for virtually nothing – just around £8 in taxes. Upon arrival, the hotel looks stunning with two swimming pools and a spacious open-air lounge area as well as a sparkling clean lobby. You can choose from several restaurants and bars just within the hotel. There’s an ATM and car hire rental in the lobby too. You can avoid high fees with Curve* by downloading it free here or Revolut*

    Food and drink prices (if not included in your package) are a little on the expensive side, but the food quality is outstanding. The breakfast buffet is amazing with cava provided free of charge. They also had food from all over the world, both hot and cold. I particularly liked the pastries and fresh fruit, as well as unlimited coffee and cava. There was something for all tastes.

    Get a great deal on Barcelo Teguise Beach here when you book a London flight & hotel with lastminute – If you’re travelling from further north, try OnTheBeach for a great package deal.

    The rooms are stunning – you get a Lavazza machine, kettle, plenty of toiletries which is handy if you forgot to pack some, a TV with plenty of UK channels, a large comfortable bed, and some free water bottles to get you started. The Wi-Fi is a little slow but fast enough for video calling. Being adults only, all guests must be aged 18 or over.

    The room was a good size with a nice desk, balcony, plenty of storage space, a safe, and fridge/mini-bar – which I would avoid using as there are plenty of bars and supermarkets in the area that sell drinks at a fraction of the price! The only thing that some people might not like is there is NO separate bathroom. The sink is outside in the room. The toilet is closed off, and so is the shower, but you can see through the top and bottom parts of it. Of course, if you’re on your own, it makes no difference, but it might be uncomfortable if sharing with someone you don’t know that well! The only other negative thing is, if you’re from the UK, my room didn’t have a USB charging point. Therefore, you will need to remember an adapter or have an EU-USB plug. You can buy one here* that has 3 USB ports as well as a UK plug socket

    The room did have lots of outlets and reading lights on either side of the bed which is handy if you’re sharing. The hotel itself can be a bit of a maze, although there are elevators if you have mobility issues or large amount of luggage. A welcome drink is normally offered upon arrival, which is nice. Reception staff are friendly and always try to help with any requests you may have.

    The hotel has a commitment to eco-friendly practices, and you can see this in every aspect of your stay – things are made from recycled materials, if possible; there is eco lighting (lights sense a person and only light up when people are around,) no plastic bottles and you are encouraged only to have four-minute showers. This rule is not enforced, of course!

    On the plus side, the location is great – from the back entrance, it leads straight to the beach (take the sports bar exit.) From there, you can turn left for shops and bars, and then walk back around to the town centre. If you turn right, there is a nice scenic walk that will take you to the Barcelo Active side of town, and eventually Arrecife. However, the bus from outside Tekkers would be much more convenient!

    Within a few minutes or less of the hotel you will find Hennessy’s, serving a range of drinks and snacks, Namaste, an Indian restaurant with amazing reviews and The Cutty Sark Bar serving a range of traditional British dishes. For those preferring something more local, El Patio Restaurant is just 400 metres away.

    In terms of shopping, Fund Grube is just 350 metres away and sell a variety of clothing items, toiletries, tobacco, spirits and souvenirs. However, always compare prices because although they offer good deals, they are not always the cheapest. Many other tourist shops selling fragrances are close to the hotel, simply walk towards Tekkers.

    Unfortunately, the spa was closed for renovations, so I did not experience this. The swimming pools looked nice but were a little cold. There were plenty of sunbeds, and no “sunbed wars” happening at all. The tables by the sun loungers enable you to scan a QR code and drinks will be brought to you. There is an on-site gym that all guests can use, too. Entertainment and activities vary, although I did not try any of them, as I was only there for one night. Similar to Barcelo Active, interactive screen or an app can tell you what the day’s schedule looks like.

    Already got flights? Get best prices for the hotel with Trivago.

    Ordinarily, this hotel costs around £115 per night including breakfast. Other dining options are available including half-board and all-inclusive. I think this is good value if you’re using all the facilities on offer, the location and quality compared to other hotels in the area. I did not receive any other free items except a bottle of cava in the afternoon. You can get a great deal with hotels.com too when you go via TopCashback* and pay with an Amex* – right now you can get 6,000 points with my link when you spend £2,000 within the first 3 months of getting approved

    *affiliate links – I receive a small commission if you use one of these links and that helps me make this content and run my social media accounts.

  • Hotel Lava Beach (Lanzarote) review

    Hotel Lava Beach (Lanzarote) review

    Updates for 2026:

    • Activities changed slightly and some are now in the afternoon as well
    • There is a USB outlet on the side of one of the beds
    • Some bathrooms have 2 sinks

    Having only opened in 2021, Hotel Lava Beach is a stunning, modern hotel located close to Arrecife airport and Puerto del Carmen. Check-in is from 2pm, which is useful if you have an early flight. You are welcomed with a drink of your choice. Reception staff are available 24 hours a day and speak fluent English as well as other languages.

    Rooms are lovely and spacious. All the amenities that you would expect from a five-star hotel are included, and beds are very comfortable. What I like about the balcony is that it is both spacious and covered so if it is raining, you can continue using it. The balcony also has two chairs and a sun lounger. The view of the sunsets from the
    balconies are great too.

    Wi-Fi in the hotel generally worked well. However, it did vary slightly depending on your location and how many other guests were using it at the same time. The TV had some UK channels including ITV2. Other amenities such as a small notepad and pencil were provided. A small fridge along with some complimentary drinks, including beer and wine were also provided. In terms of coffee, you are given an allowance of pods to use in the machine. If you wish to purchase more, you can do so at reception for a cost of 80c per pod. However, tea and hot water are always available. As you cannot drink the tap water on the island, some complimentary mineral water was provided by the cleaning staff daily. Should you need more, you can purchase them from a few local shops in the area.

    Rooms are cleaned daily, and you need not bring many toiletries with you as a dental kit, shaving kit, soap, shower gel and conditioner are all provided. The rainfall shower leaves you feeling invigorated, and afterwards you can wrap up in the free bathrobe and slippers.

    The grounds are just as good as the rooms themselves. You can enjoy the mini-golf, tennis court, cactus garden or enjoy one of the heated pools. There is also a gym, hairdresser, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi available from 10am-8pm. Massages are available at an extra cost. You can charge all additional costs to your room since a credit card is authorised at check-in.

    I would recommend the half-board option, as it works out cheaper than paying for the dinner buffet separately. The breakfast and dinner buffets are both amazing with a very wide range of food and cava at breakfast also. There are some vegan and vegetarian options too. Should you have any allergies, let staff know and they will prepare something specially for you.

    The cactus garden leads to the promenade, where, if you walk for around 40 minutes, you will arrive at Puerto del Carmen town centre. The number 3 bus also goes from Sol Lanzarote at a cost of 1,40€, or a taxi costs 4-5€. Here, you will find a larger selection of shops and bars.

    There are some fitness activities that normally take place in the mornings. For book lovers, the hotel even has its own library with a wide range of books in English, German, French and a few other languages. If you are thinking of booking an excursion, most Viator tours will pick you up from your hotel, as it has a very central location.

    For travel to or from the airport, I would recommend checking Holiday Extras as they offer a wide range of shared and private transfers. Having a transfer booked saves waiting in the queue for taxis or renting a car. The journey (in a private transfer) is 10 minutes at most.

    Links mentioned:

    Promo code for Holiday Extras – automatically applied – great for transfers, airport lounges, insurance and more.

    Book Lava Beach with easyJet holidays and get a 23kg bag and transfer FREE, plus they have sales and promo codes from time to time.

    Compare car hire deals with Travel Supermarket – they search the market so you don’t have to. You can also purchase extras such as lounge access and travel insurance.

    Compare other hotel prices in the area with Trivago – take advantage of their Book & Go option for a simple, hotel-only booking if you already have a flight.