FAQ
How long will it take me to drive from the airport to the South of the Island?
Are clothes washing facilities available in the Properties?
Are cash points available in Gran Canaria?
Are clothes washing facilities available in the Properties?
What is the weather like in the south of Gran Canaria?
While I am out for the day, will my money and valuables be safe in the villa?
Apart from the obvious things, such as money, passport, driving licence, etc., we would say the next most important item is the directions and key instructions to the property.
Purchase your teabags & coffee at your local supermarket before travelling – Both are rather expensive here in the Canary Isles and there is a limited choice. Ground coffee, the Spanish favourite breakfast drink, is similar to the UK in selection and price. Breakfast cereals etc and a good selection of other English products are readily available here in the local supermarkets.
Reading material – Books, magazines etc. Most of the UK publications of popular magazines are available on the island but they tend to be a touch out of date relative to the UK.
A small first–aid kit with aspirins, plasters, antiseptic, etc., would be an advantage and of course your personal medication.
A back pack is a very useful item and comes in very handy for the day trips, shopping sprees and walks and a concealed money belt.
The current used in Gran Canaria and throughout the Canary islands is 220 Volts AC 50Hz (Similar to the U.K.) and plugs have two round pins as found on the European continent.
If you intend to use your UK hairdryer etc you will require a simple plug adapter and this is best bought in the UK as they are not readily available in Gran Canaria.
Power cuts do occasionally happen, so bring a small torch with you.
Sun creams:Stock up, before you travel, with high factor products. The sun in the South of Gran Canaria is very strong even in the middle of winter. Gran Canaria is on the same latitude as Tampa in Florida, U.S.A. If you find, after you arrive, that you require additional sun creams we highly recommend that you only use the chemists (farmacias) for your purchases.
Maps or Information on Gran Canaria. There are several publications available.The web site Amazon.co.uk has a very comprehensive range available.
Spanish Phrasebook.
Games : Scrabble or cards etc.
Clothes : Most travellers arriving in Gran Canaria for the 1st time invariably pack too many clothes.
In summertime, most holidaymakers only wear light apparel for the daytime. Short sleeve shirts or Tshirts, shorts, etc. In the evening very light clothes are the most comfortable and appropriate.
Wintertime : Again, light clothes for the daytime. The noon temperatures can reach 26/30C in January and February. Evening : the nights are cooler and slightly warmer clothes are called for. If you intend to explore the mountain areas of Gran Canaria then the slightly warmer clothes would be useful. A cardigan or jumper is generally all that is additionally required if you are dining outside or eating at a partially enclosed restaurant.