But whatever the economy is doing, it appears British holidaymakers still prefer to visit Spain and the Canary and Balearic Islands.

Whether it's for a weekend break or a week awa, the British head for the Balearic and Canary Islands in their droves.

Mallorca and Menorca, two of the Balearic Islands favoured by tourists are Mediterranean islands south of France and east of the Spanish mainland. Their convenient location makes them the perfect weekend getaway or holiday destination.

Mallorca and Menorca are hot holiday destinations for many reasons. Both islands are rich in Spanish culture and boast amazing white sand beaches. Marvellous 4 and 5 star hotels and resorts border their beaches and offer every amenity. Their shopping and gaming are as exciting as their adventurous night life.

Many celebrity couples own homes in Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Michael Douglas and wife Catherine Zeta-Jones own a castle style mansion on a secluded hillside near Deia in Mallorca. When asked why he and his family purchased there, Douglas replied 'The splendor of the landscape and history of the island bewitched me.'

Mallorca is a very modern island with modern delights, yet somehow manages to retain its old charm. Its many beaches are the envy of beaches world-wide. Each year royalty, celebrities and tourists alike revel in the relaxing atmosphere. The northern coast of Mallorca is spotted with high mountains, dramatic cliffs and private coves. Some of Mallorca's busiest beaches may become crowded during the summer. Those who do not enjoy crowded areas may opt for several smaller, more secluded beaches.

Menorca is the smaller of the two most visited Balearic Islands. Do not let its size fool you! Menorca is home to some of the nicest beaches, hiking trails and scuba diving tours in the world. Many shops teach scuba diving and take tourists to shipwrecks just off the coast.

If golf is more your sport, you are in luck. The Son Parc golf course is located on the northern side of the island and is home to the only golf course on Menorca. The full 18-hole course has lush turf, beautiful greens, sand traps and a flock of peacocks living behind the third green attract more than just golfers. The peacocks are accustomed to humans and often offer up an amazing display of colour.

Over on the Canary Islands, Lanzarote is the easternmost of the Canary Islands and an exceptional holiday destination. Lanzarote is volcanic in origin, like the other Canary Islands. It is 37 miles (60km) long and 12 miles (20km) wide. Its mild, dry climate and year round temperatures ranging from 21 degrees Celsius (69.8 degrees F) to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees F) make Lanzarote the perfect holiday destination any time of year.

Whether it's Menorca and the Balearic Islands, or Lanzarote and the Canary Islands, Spain has enough diversity to keep the tourists returning year after year for their holidays.