Despite the current economic downturn the holiday island of Lanzarote still expects to welcome well over one million foreign visitors during the course of 2009.  The majority of them from the UK.  As the island remains a favoure holiday spot with tourists.  Much to the delight of the many thousands of overseas owners of holiday apartments in Lanzarote.

Fortunately most families still refuse to cut their annual vacations even if money is tight.

The Canarian archipelago, comprising a total of seven islands, is four hours away from the UK by plane.  And some of the best known economy airlines fly there, such as Jet 2 and Thomas Cook.  Which means it is usually fairly easy to get a flight to the island for as little as £200 return.  Making it a big favourite with overseas investors – many of whom rent their property in Lanzarote to holidaymakers. The bulk of flights from the UK operate on Mondays and Thursdays.

Lanzarote only has the one international airport at Arrecife.  Which is located around 3km from the island capital of the same name.  This serves as the hub for ´domestic’ flights between the other six Canary Islands as well as the rest of Spain.  Facilities at the airport are a little limited by mainland European standards.  For example there are no bureau de change facilities or shops in the arrivals hall.

In addition, there are no shuttle buses running between the airport and the main resorts.  Which means that independent travellers will either need to take a taxi to their Lanzarote hotels or hire a car.  Taxis are available directly outside the main arrivals hall.  Although it is well worth noting that there can be a considerable queue during busy periods – such as Thursdays.  When arrivals should allow up to twenty minutes wait.

On the upside, getting to most accommodation such as Lanzarote villas or apartments is usually pretty quick.  As the island is very small – measuring less than 60km from end to end.  So transfer times are speedy.  For example, Playa Blanca, which is the furthest resort from the airport can be reached in around 35 minutes.  Whilst the other two main resorts of Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen are both within a ten minute radius of Arecife airport.

Lanzarote provides visitors with plenty to do.  There´s over ninety beautiful beaches, the majority boasting golden sands.  Whilst the island also boasts a unique volcanic scenery, thanks to the eruptions of the 1730´s which carpeted around a quarter of Lanzaroe in lava.  A local artist called Cesar Manrique worked with this volcanic terrain to create some great attractions, such as the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden.  Which should feature on any visitors itinerary.

Pop along to the Lanzarote guidebook website for the very latest availability of villas in Lanzarote. If you fancy a holiday home of your own you can also find some great information about property in Lanzarote there too.