First the basic stuff you should know, Tenerife is largest of the Canary Islands, Spain, so the language is Spanish. The climate is fantastic, hot in the winter and very hot in the summer, although the north and south of the island vary considerably, the north is more humid (and therefore greener), with the south very dry and desert like. The reason for this is to do with the fact that Tenerife is closer to Africa than Spain, plus the prevailing winds rising over the massive Mount Teide volcano, create these two micro climates on this small island.

With two airports Tenerife is well served for international and internal Spanish flights, although most UK holiday makers arrive in the south at Reina Sofia which is more convenient for the holiday resorts, with most transfers taking less than one hour (especially if you get 1 of the local maniac taxi drivers).

The Tenerife resorts cater for every taste, from basic package holidays, through to luxury hotels and villas, in fact whatever your budget you will find accommodation to fit your pocket. Fine restaurants abound, as do the ever present takeaways and burger bars. Evening entertainment can be found to suit all tastes, whether you just want to karaoke the night away, go clubbing till dawn, watch the sports channels in a "pub" or go to a show, you will not be lacking for choice.

Most visitors never stray far from the swimming pool or one of the many fine beaches (some with the famous local black sand) during the day, which is a shame as there is so much on offer. Lots of trips and outings can be found on Tenerife, offered with local pick up points or hire a car (very cheap to do) and drive yourself and family. The most popular day out has to be a visit to Mt Teide (don't worry it hasn't erupted for a few million years) to see the most unbelievable views and lunar landscape of the old lava flows, you can drive to the base and catch a cable car nearly to the top and don't forget to take some warm clothes, it can be very cold up there.

The other attractions include all the usual tourist favourites, such as aqua parks, zoos, museums and the many sports on offer including first class golf. Being an island it would not surprise you that water sports and boat trips are widely available, with top notch wind surfing, sailing and scuba diving to the more sedate pleasure boats offering glimpses of whales or dolphins and party cruises.