Canary Islands, Spain

June 12, 2024 | Mike Mikus | Africa, Europe

As we traversed northward from West Africa the oceans are fading to blue, and the desert landscapes transitioned to tropical foliage. We have spent the last two days in the Canary Islands, located just north of west Africa, the archipelago is made up of seven primary islands

It is believed that the islands’ name was derived from the Latin phrase “Canariae Insulae” which means “Islands of the Dogs”, which is likely a reference to the abundance of monk seals which are frequently called “sea dogs”.

Always Remember to Look Up When People-watching

Ironically (not unlike some of the Hawaiian islands) in the evenings the parakeets deluge the palm trees along the costal cities. While they feed in the mountains during the day, they flock to the coasts to sleep and mate in the tepid evening breezes. While their songs are far from that of their cardinal brethren, they do put on an extended audible performance during sunsets and sunrises, before returning to the mountains for breakfast.

Our adventures took us to Tenerife (pronounced te-ne-ɾi-fe) the largest of the islands. In addition to many beautiful small towns and cobblestone villages, the island also boast of having Mount Teide, the world’s third largest active volcano.

Prior to the mid-1800s, these beautiful islands were controlled by France and Portugal, their 2.5 million residents are now Spanish citizens. Their language is Spanish with a heavy Portuguese influence.

Our first stop was to head to the colorful town of La Laguna, spending several hours wandering the old town streets. As the ancient clock tower chimed in, we found ourselves casually enjoying a fresh crescent and cappuccino before heading out to our afternoon destination, the costal community of Puerto de la Cruz for tapas.

Within minutes of arriving we were able to find the beachfront area visited last year by our dear friend Weeziebug. Having seen her photos, we knew we wanted to visit this jewel. Grabbing an ocean view table at an outdoor cafe, we enjoyed one of the best Prosecco’s we have ever had. Just delightful.

Not to be outdone, the tapas arrived shortly thereafter, and consisted of calamari, prosciutto, and an unbelievable shrimp in a garlic butter. Yummo!

Upon taking advantage of the never-ending picturesque setting, with tears in our eyes, and a belly full of tapas, we headed back towards the ship. Luckily, we had left early, and were anxious to explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the charming port town which we had docked at earlier and would be calling home during our remains days on this island paradise.

We had forgotten how much we enjoyed loosing ourselves in our thoughts and surroundings as we wonder the cobblestone streets of European towns. Every turn offers new, and much sought-after sights, sounds, tastes and smells.

After several scenic stops for yummy tapas, cocktails, and the likes, we hunkered down until late in the evening, enjoying a jazz guitarist in a park. So peaceful, and it is so funny how, even on land, one can still fear the rocking of the sea.

The following morning, we headed out to find a European breakfast. We just love people (and puppy) watching at the little quiet outdoor tables scattered throughout the picturesque cobblestone streets and nestled in the hidden alleyways. And it is so nice to get back to the western culture and our favorite cuisines.

As we delighted in our tapas, a fellow traveler inquired as to when was the first time that we realized that we may be big foodies. We all got a chuckle as I recalled a road trip years After visiting the world’s largest frying pan, we soon found ourselves at the world’s largest potato roadside stop. Boy, those memories still make me hungry!
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After an afternoon of shopping and sightseeing, we headed back to the ship for the customary sail-away party on the top decks. As we watched the colorful buildings and charming European rooftops fade from site, we commented that this too, was a “must return here someday” vacation haven.