If you're dreaming of volcanic beaches, moody Atlantic sunsets, and a break from the typical vacation scene, this one’s for you.
✈️ Day 1: Midnight Arrival & Tramp Stamps
Tenerife was cloaked in darkness when I landed. After being directed to the “Third Country” line at passport control (not to be confused with third-world, thank you very much), I waited for my turn. The agent scanned my passport, ensured I wasn’t a felon or heretic, and gave me a stamp—a proud new "tramp stamp" for my travel book.
Bags collected, I found the shuttle through LoveHolidays.com and boarded, just in time for Peter Cetera to serenade us with “It’s Hard for Me to Say I’m Sorry.” Very fitting, since we waited another hour for stragglers to join.
My hotel was located an hour away on the other side of the island. By the time I checked in—at 2 a.m.—I was running on fumes. The receptionist was chipper; I was not. I nodded through his rapid-fire information dump, dragged my bags to my room, and collapsed into bed.
💤 First Impression:
A surprisingly spacious room with a balcony… overlooking what seemed to be a guardrail. Classic parking lot view. Still, grateful to finally be horizontal.
🌴 Day 2: Island Reset
The day started in darkness again, but when I opened the curtains, a rich royal blue sky flooded the room.
I kept things low-key: explored the hotel grounds, did some writing and schoolwork, and took in the amenities of this all-inclusive resort.
🍽️ Food Situation:
Lunch went okay—I found some safe options—but dinner? A struggle. I had to stick with veggies and safe carbs like rice and potatoes. Not exactly gourmet, but the sunset view made up for it.
🌞 Day 3: Poolside & Posh (Sort Of)
The morning was filled with writing and work, but by afternoon, I ventured out.
Right outside Hotel Best Semiramis, you’ll find the usual tourist traps: T-shirts, keychains, and novelty mugs. I picked up a cute handmade jewelry box and a souvenir keychain, then headed back for a swim.
Poolside was a dream. The cabanas were draped in white linen, the drinks were flowing, and I had a gluten-free pizza that was chef’s kiss—though my stomach strongly disagreed later.
🥂 Formal Dinner… Kinda
I dressed up for what was labeled a “formal dinner,” only to be surrounded by people in cargo shorts and rompers. A little disheartening, but the grilled salmon and more pizza (again, risky!) somewhat redeemed it.
🌊 Day 4: Exploring the City & Saying Goodbye
My final day started with a stomach rebellion, but I managed to bounce back thanks to the safe snacks I had packed. I ventured downhill into the city—literally—navigating a series of stairs that led me to a charming, vibrant downtown area.
Shops offering couture, tarot readings, and massages lined the streets alongside tapas bars and international cuisine.
🖤 A Volcanic Beach Moment
At Playa Martiánez, I stood on the jetty listening to waves crash over black volcanic rocks. I kicked off my sparkly Crocs and slid my feet into the mushy, cool sand—utter bliss.
Down the promenade, I watched vendors selling knockoff bags quickly vanish at the sight of police, only to reappear minutes later with smiles and flirty greetings.
🥖 Lunch at Café de Paris
I used Google Translate to scan menus and found a safe bet: Café de Paris. Basic chicken and fries, followed by a few glorious bites of chocolate ice cream.
After that, I strolled along eclectic streets filled with Spanish charm, modern art, and vintage balconies. Near Europe de Palace, I found a rocky port with ocean-fed swimming pools—locals diving in, kids splashing, waves crashing like a soundtrack.
Then, it was time to return to the hotel to pack and rest before heading to the UK.
💡 Final Thoughts: Should You Go to Tenerife?
If you're looking for a relaxing island destination that offers volcanic landscapes, all-inclusive resorts, cultural pockets, and moody ocean vibes, Tenerife is worth your time.
✔️ Unique location
✔️ Beautiful sunsets
✔️ Affordable luxury
✔️ A solid mix of beach + culture
Food issues aside, this was a peaceful and much-needed getaway.
Rating: 10/10 – would return.
📍 Quick Tips for Visiting Tenerife
- Book all-inclusive if you're staying put—easy access to food, drinks, and entertainment.
- Bring your own snacks if you have food allergies/intolerances.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases or use Google Translate for menus.
- Stay near Puerto de la Cruz if you want charm over chaos.
- Don't bother dressing up unless you're into irony.
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