The Canary Islands - where the sun, sand and water converge to create the perfect vacation destination. The islands themselves were created by volcanic activity spanning several hundred years. Their location provides tourists with a climate that's as near to perfect as it gets, year-round. The perfect ambient temperature creates near perfect diving and boating conditions any time of the year.

The Canary Islands have been a very popular vacation spot for millions of people from around the world for decades. The majority of tourists to the Canaries have been British, Spanish, Italian, German and American. In recent years, not many Russians have made the Canaries a priority in their vacation plans simply because travel was not as convenient. November 2008 will see an end to the travel issues facing thousands of Russians who would like to add the Canary Islands to their list of vacation destinations.

Gran Canaria

The island of Gran Canaria is the third largest of the Canary Islands. The international airport and and official offices are located in the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The primary language spoken is Spanish and the island's population is just over 802,000. Gran Canaria is a round island with roadways encircling it and extending toward the mountainous areas.

Biking and hiking are two of the most popular land-lubber activities. Biking and hiking guided tours are available to those who wish to view the island in its natural light. Maps and audio tours are available for the more adventurous traveler. Audio tours are in the form of MP3, cassette tape and CD. The cyclist or hiking party listens to audio descriptions of the area surrounding them while following the instructions on a map. Non-guided tours are self-paced and generally less expensive.

Vacation Areas of Gran Canaria

The Capital city of Las Palmas is home to more than 375,000 residents.

The southern coast of the island is home to Playa del Ingles, or 'Englishman's Beach' as it is translated. The beach in this area of the island is a natural beach but has been supplemented with sands from the Sahara desert from neighboring Africa. Some of the beach towns along the southern coast of the island include San Agustin, Puerto de Mogan and Maspalomas. The old highway links Puerto de Mogan with Las Palmas for easier travel.

Flights from Moscow to Gran Canaria

Russia's strengthening economy opens many new doors for its residents. This fact coupled with the new air route from Moscow to Gran Canaria's international airport gives Russians a new easy-access vacation spot. In years past, only the wealthiest of Russia's population could afford the lengthy trips with multiple exchanges at airports. Anticipation of the new air route is wide-spread among much of Russia's frequent travelers.