Simon Calder’s ‘top destination’ this summer is ‘awesomely unique’

Journalist and travel expert Simon Calder recently recommended some of his favourite European summer destinations on BBC Breakfast. The beautiful holiday spots are also the most affordable options according to the expert, who recommended Lanzarote, as his “top destination” this year.

Simon suggested heading to the island of Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands, this summer as it has good food, stunning beaches and is “very cheap”.

Where is Lanzarote?

The Canary Islands, in Spain, are formed by seven volcanic islands: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.

Lanzarote, located 70 miles off the coast of Africa, is one of the most popular holiday destinations due to its unique black sand beach and its affordable prices.

Despite being Lanzarote one of the smallest islands, there are direct flights from the UK every day, including London Gatwick to Lanzarote for under £40 with easyJet in June or from Manchester, also under £40, with Ryanair at the beginning of May.

What to visit in Lanzarote?

With its all-year-round sunshine and warm weather, Lanzarote is the perfect option for a relaxing summer holiday.

According to Spain-holiday, the island’s volcanic landscape “gives the impression that you are in a lunar environment” and has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected status.

Some of the most beautiful beaches are Playa del Papagayo, Playa Flamingo, Playa de las Conchas and Playa Quemada.

Travel experts from Guide to Canary Islands shared the best places to visit during the summer break including Puerto del Carmen, “a great place for nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants”.

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Teguise is one of the most beautiful towns while Cueva de los Verdes, Jardín de Cactus, Timanfaya National Park, Jameos Del Agua and the Volcano Natural Park are the main attractions.

What have travellers said about Lanzarote?

On the travel blog Oliverstravels, the island of Lanzarote was described as a “fascinating volcanic island”.

Summer is one of the best seasons to visit when “a constant breeze keeps temperatures manageable for family holidays”.

“Winter is ideal for outdoorsy types, looking to scale volcanoes and cycle up mountains and temperatures rarely dip below 16 degrees. Just a four-hour flight from the UK, Lanzarote offers easy and affordable short-haul winter sun,” the travel experts said.

British travellers who recently visited the holiday spot took to the comments section on Tripadvisor to share their thoughts.

A visitor from Glasglow with username @itchyfeet2014 said that Playa de Papagayo is “a stunning beach”.

“We had heard of this amazing beach but only visited it this year. What a stunning location! Good snorkelling and swimming are to be had in this beautiful bay. Not to be missed!”

Another one, named Leslie, recommended visiting the Jameos del Agua, and “what a magical adventure,” she said. “I was so thrilled to see the little white cave crabs – how awesomely unique! It is beautiful!”

Simon Calder also recommended Costa Blanca, also in Spain, which is the “most affordable” option if travellers opt for a package holiday, and Majorca, in the Balearic Islands, also one of the “cheapest” locations this summer.

The travel guru revealed, however, that his personal favourite is North Macedonia, which is “fantastic” and very cheap.

Simon explained: “The all-time bargain destination this summer is going to be the new destination of North Macedonia, flying out of Manchester to Lake Ohrid which is lovely.

“That’s £386 per person. It’s fantastic. I’ve been there. It’s absolutely gorgeous, with lakes, and mountains. Friendly people, and great 1990s prices for pretty much everything. Get a cheap deal going there.”

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