The Canary Islands offer excellent value sunshine breaks all year round.  As their location off the coast of West Africa creates a warm and sunny welcome for holidaymakers – whatever the time of year.

During the summer months the islands are especially popular with guests from mainland Spain.  Who escape to the cooler climes of the Canaries in order to escape the searing heat of the Peninsula. But during the winter Northern European tourists tend to flock here.  As the islands offer an escape from the gloomy winter weather of home.

Lanzarote is particularly popular with visitors from the UK, Germany and Eire.  And despite the economic crisis still expects to welcome hundreds of thousands of guests from these countries this winter.

Part of the islands appeal is its affordability.  This winter, flights to Lanzarote are, for the first time, available at proper budget prices.  Thanks to the arrival on the scene of the leading low cost flight operator Ryanair.  Who have launched 16 new services to the island.  Taking advantage of a temporary suspension in airport taxes as Spain seeks to kick start its faltering tourist sector.

Accommodation can also be found at very reasonable rates too.   With holiday apartments in Lanzarote available from as little as £160 per week.  Whilst two bedroom villas in Lanzarote with private pools can be rented from around £400 per week.

Where are the best spots to stay on the island?  During the winter months the further south one heads the better.  As even on a small island such as Lanzarote there is a pronounced microclimate.  Making Playa Blanca and Puerto de Carmen the best resort options.

Playa Blanca is located around forty minutes from the airport – so the transfer time is longer than to Puerto del Carmen by some distance.  But on the upside the resorts boasts great beaches, excellent restaurants and loads of things to see and do.  Visitors can even hop over to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura on ferries that run regularly from the harbour area.

Puerto del Carmen offers better nightlife than Playa Blanca.  As this resort is home to the highest concentration of bars, restaurants and clubs on the island. And has also recently been revitalised by a €16 million cash injection.  As local authorities have invested to improve the resorts infrastructure and overall tourist offering.

Either option will ensure that visitors are basking in temperatures of 20 degrees plus this winter.  A welcome alternative to rain, sleet and snow.