subject: Lanzarote: The Real Do's And Don'ts [print this page] There are literally hundreds of holiday guides telling us where to go and what to expect when we get to our chosen destination. However many of these guides seem to simply scratch the surface, pointing us to the hotels in the area but not mentioning which ones are full of bed bugs! It is great to know the way to the nearest beaches but what if you turn up with your children and discover that it is the local nudist beach? The only way to avoid this is to really research your destination, from customs to back street restaurants; it pays to be clued up. Nowhere is this more important that the Canary Island of Lanzarote where there are so many fantastic hidden gems. If you are planning on visiting the resort over the next few years, make sure you read on to discover the real 'need to know' aspects of a Lanzarote break.
First of all, although the island is Spanish the locals are regard themselves as Canarian. It is important to know a little about the roots of the Canarian history so it does pay to spend an hour trawling through the internet to find out some facts just in case you get quizzed by a local! If you do happen to be visiting Lanzarote during festival season it is recommended to try and get involved in some of the celebrations. There are costumed parades, street carnivals and feasts to enjoy along with displays of music and dance. The religious aspects of the fiestas are also fantastic to observe, religion is very important on the island and the dedications to patron saints are definitely a memorable holiday experience.
Everyone enjoys picking up some fantastic holiday bargains but aside from alcohol and cigarettes in Duty Free, do you know where to go for your other Lanzarote bargains? The island offers a special duty free tax status which ensures that perfume, alcohol and cigarettes are much cheaper here than anywhere else in the EU. Each of the resorts in Lanzarote boasts their own shopping areas with designer boutiques and high street favourites. Those looking for the usual array of holiday gifts will be spoilt for choice with markets and souvenir shops around the island offering the usual 'tat' that we love to buy.
The local people are renowned for their friendliness and welcome all visits to the country. Anyone attempting to speak Spanish will be welcomed, even if you are reading from a phrasebook it is definitely a sign of respect! Always remember than Lanzarote is a very religious country therefore anyone visiting the churches should remember to cover up their legs and shoulders. Those dining out should also remember to tip their waiter, anything around 5-10% is deemed to be customary.
