An island of contrasts and surprises, that’s Tenerife, even as Hurricane Xynthia threatened to wreak havoc, the sun beat down brightly and temperatures nudged up into the high 20 degrees. As the storms move on and through mainland Europe, it’s business as usual in resilient Tenerife, and the snow capped peak of Mount Teide looks a picture from Wimpen head office in Playa Paraiso.

It takes a lot to throw Canarians out of their stride, even Carnaval season went on largely unaffected, a few events were moved to other days but the street parties carried on. Making provision for just a few days of severe weather each year is a tough balancing act but Tenerife makes a good job of it. The barrancos(ravines) channel the water down to the coast and as soon as the rain stops the council workers and emergency services swing into action. Santa Cruz, the northern capital, suffered quite a deluge but even on the national Carnaval holiday the street cleaners were out early in the morning to mop up.

The snow on Teide can be seen from all around the island, it’s a proud and defiant symbol of the enduring qualities of Tenerife and its people. It’s quite a feeling to lay on the beach soaking up the sun as you look up and see the snow glinting in the skyline. The rainfall will also bring its reward, the lusher, greener north of the island emerges revived from the pine forests of the La Orotava valley to the many vineyards that make Tenerife wine such an export favourite. Raise your glass and say cheers to Tenerife, there’s plenty more sunshine to come.

If you like a party, the Canary Islands are the place to be in the spring, it’s Carnaval season and everyone is invited to join in. As always it will be a riot of colour, music, dancing, and maybe the odd little drink or two.

It all kicks off with the daddy of then all, Santa Cruz , second only to Rio in size and splendour. The main events begin on Friday 12 February, and from then on it’s a constant round of competitions to find the Carnaval Queen, and the winning Murgas (musical satire) with similar competitions at childrens level. Wednesday 17 February is the night the sardine gets paraded through the city accompanied by wailing mourners, and Saturday 20 February is the big all day street party that runs into the early hours of next morning. the final day.

Then all the regional  events kick in, those staying or living at Las Rosas and El Marques will be close to the action for the Los Gigantes Carnaval. This runs from Thursday 26 February to Monday 1 March, Sardine night, with the big Coso (parade) on Sunday 28 February.

If you are lucky enough to be at Los Claveles in Los Cristianos, your dates are Friday 5 March to Monday 15 March, sardine night, with the Coso parade on Sunday 14 March.

These Carnaval celebrations really show off Tenerife at its best, they are fun, lively and very infectious. You can’t fight it so give in to the rhythm and get up and dance.

How nice to see 4 generations of a family on holiday at the  Las Brisas Gold Crown Resort in Lanzarote. Owner Mrs Joan Deacon, along with her Daughter, Grand Daughter & Great Grand Daughter, recently enjoyed some time at the Resort – now that´s what you call a real family holiday!!!!!

Looking out to the iconic cliffs of Los Gigantes on the sun trap that is the west coast of Tenerife, El Marques is always a great place to stay. Now you have the chance to dip in and enjoy a few days with our half board menu.

It couldn’t be easier, just reserve your stay for a minimum of 3 days, they don’t even have to be consecutive. Then the set menu awaits you, a full English breakfast with tea or coffee, and later, soup of the day, a choice of two main courses and a desert. All for just 13 euros per person.

We love to welcome families, and have a childrens menu at just 7.50 a child, or if you fancy something from our a la carte menu, just ask about our amazing prices. See you soon.

There is so much to admire about Lanzarote, from the rugged volcanic landscape to the careful development of low rise buildings and respect for the environment. Now a new wider audience will come to appreciate the wonders of this island with the March 18 cinema release of Los Abrazos Rotos (the broken embraces) starring  Penelope Cruz.

Last year Penelope and her favourite director, Pedro Almodolvar spent weeks on the island filming at several iconic locations that will give the film an amazing backdrop.

Many people have already fallen in love with Lanzarote, Wimpen Leisure Management have 2 stylish managed resorts in Playa Blanca, Las Brisas and Las Casitas. To see what makes these resorts such a draw to wise investors, take a look at the newly revamped Wimpen website, and prepare to be impressed.