Gran Canaria - a destination (Gran Canaria)

Member Name: loumains

Product:	Gran Canaria
Date:	17/01/09 (32 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Warm

Disadvantages: Unfinished, unloved

The date was set - September 20th 2008. The husband to be had been negotiate into a corner 'I'll fly up to 4 hours but no more than that', now it was just the location. We settled on Gran Canaria. We'd found a bargain and a half. 5 star half board accommodation in a spa resort close to the dunes in Maspalomas. So it was set - we'd spend our 10 day honeymoon on the island.
On return, these were the things that struck us. Firstly, the sights that line the routes to many resorts are less than idyllic. Gran Canaria is a hugely successful supplier of tomato exports. The stock is cultivated in vast, temporary-looking structures made of nylon sacking and canes or metal posts. Once past their prime, they are left to the elements. You will see a lot of them; derelict, graffiti-ridden and strewn with litter.
Once into resort, things start to look familiar - between 1980's Spain and today's Greek party zone. Maspolomas itself is a frenzy of building on a lovely stretch of beach. The dunes are stunning, the sea - blue. Shops are tax free and ladened with designer goods. Its restaurants are those you find wherever tourists visit in great number. Where is the soul?
If you desire anything other than sun-worshiping, please do leave the resorts. Go to Teror, Puerto Rico, Las Palmas...anywhere that isn't 'in resort'. This is an evolving island that hasn't found its feet. It has little character in the developed areas and will leave you disheartened and feeling cheated. If you venture out, you'll start to see the charm of the place and the residents. Otherwise, prepare yourself for a dusty Disneyland, half way through construction.

Summary: Great for sun and exploring, soulless resorts