Winter’s not exactly over yet but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream of summer, sandy beaches and cocktails. Especially after two years of travel restrictions and a lot of nose swabs, we’re ready to do some serious vacationing. And we’re clearly not the only ones who can’t wait. Airline operator Ryanair seems to be thinking of sunnier weather as well and has therefore released a top 5 with its favorite destinations for the summer of 2022. And it’s promising to be a summer to remember.
What’s striking about Ryanair’s top 5 is that all of the destinations are islands. Without exception. And even more striking is the fact that, except for one, they’re all located in the Canary Islands. Whether it’s pure luck or not, we’re not sure but then again, there’s a lot to like about a sunny island. So whichever destination you choose, make sure to pack your sunglasses and a good book.
1. Lanzarote
In the North-East of the Canary Islands lies Lanzarote, called Tyterogaka in the local Guanche language – which means as much as “one that is all ochre” referring to the all-dominant color on the island. Nature lovers might also know the island because of its Timanfaya National Park which was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1993. The perfect destination if you love a good hike.
2. Tenerife
Of all the Canary Islands, Tenerife is the largest and also the most populated. It’s rather notorious for being visited by the older part of the population yet it’s also much more than that. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, for example, is an event not to be missed and contrary to what you might think, there are several nature reserves on the island, including Teide National Park and Macizo de Anaga. Although the many beaches are certainly one of its biggest advantages.
3. Fuerteventura
And yet another island in the Canary Islands. With its 3.000 hours of sunshine a year, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Fuerteventura is popular amongst tourists. Spend one year in Brussels and you’ll know enough. Thanks to the Trade Winds, it’s the perfect spot for surfers and all other water adventurers alike.
4. Gran Canaria
Last but not least in the Canary Islands list: Gran Canaria. When you’re looking for a city boasting great weather, yummy food and a huge cultural history, the island’s capital Las Palmas is the one for you. Outside the city, you’ll find a landscape characterized by grand contrasts, from sandy white beaches to deeply black colored rocks, where it’s great hiking.
5. Santorini
And then, finally, the exception in the top 5, the one island that isn’t part of the Canary Islands but instead lies in Greece. Santorini’s part of the Cyclades island group and widely known for its white houses in front of a sparkling blue background, where sea and sky merge seamlessly. It’s also the place where the so-called Minoan volcanic eruption originated, putting an end to the Minoan civilization on Crete. Clearly a destination where culture and pleasure can be easily combined.
