WELCOME TO THE TENERIFE AGE OF CHANGE

Whether we live local on the island or a passing tourist enjoying the sun, sand and relaxation of Tenerife, over the years we have seen so many changes that have taken place. There has been a huge amount of investment and development both in the North and the South. 

Development in La Caleta (South) just up from the beautiful area of El Duque, is hosting more luxurious hotels and pushing hard to attract new tourists with all inclusive deals. Costa Adeje has created a huge tourist attraction with Siam Park which is one of the leading Water Parks in the world. This has been followed by Siam Mall, attracting holiday shoppers, so it proves investment and confidence within Tenerife is on the up!

In the North, you can witness new innovative buildings such as the stunning Auditorium which has had the welcome attendance from Stephen Hawkins and ex- USA President, Bill Clinton. The Auditorium is used for classical musical festivals and in the month of May, by the Armed Forces where their display of outdoor military museum is on show.

In La Laguna, Santa Cruz the creation of The Museum of Science brings visitors the facilities of a traditional Museum and also an area 'hands on' theme. The museum offers Planetarium sessions, informative talks, educational workshops and displays, with debates on Sci-fi films. This new investment shows Tenerife engaging into new areas of interest and being forward thinking with their creative ideas.

What this tell us about Tenerife is that their investments and innovation is paying off in today's tourist choices and more and more people are flocking to Tenerife as one of the top holiday places to be. Statistics show that even the Brexit has not discouraged the UK tourists from heading back to this much loved and cared for island. 

The Auditorium Building in Santa Cruz

So what are the changes over the years?

Let me take you on a journey of how the island looked in years gone by and what it looks like today! You can see more photographs by visiting Robert on Twitter @1966Ph.

Memory Lane...

Playa De Las Americas has been heavily populated with hotels, restaurants and bars which attract host of holidaymakers year on year. The area would struggle to fit any new buildings. Ten years ago, this was the place to stay as it had it all but on a negative note, this area will stay in a time warp as there is no room for innovation or change. Don't get me wrong, holiday makers love this place but it is not part of the new Tenerife with up to date arrivals of new technology and tougher competition. Visitors are heading further towards Costa Adeje which is seen as the number one place to stay, putting Playa De Las Americas firmly below them in popular choice.

If you are looking for a quieter town, away from the noise and crowds, El Medano is popular for wind surfers and has a small beach. There is a few shops but not your typical offering of bars and full English breakfast. It is more traditional of the island with local food and unspoilt, which is lovely to have this comfort as a means to escape from the tourist attractions.

Planning ahead, its likely that future visits will take me North, especially Puerto De La Cruz as it seems to be drawing me to it. Prices are more competitive although it is not as popular and the weather can be a little cooler. The place is 'greener' with exotic plants and there are some interesting places to visit which will take you away from the packed beaches and blistering sunshine. 

Thank you to Robert for helping with the 'old and new' Tenerife photographs. I am extremely grateful for his kindness. 

If you would like to keep up to date with new blog posts, please feel free to follow me on Facebook @tapasintenerife or Twitter @dawnmcintyre04 

Stay safe folks and enjoy this island!