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Fuerteventura "A peaceful haven with sun-kissed sandy beaches and an unhurried atmosphere, Fuerteventura is perfect for getting away from it all." Soft, white sands, rolling waves and attractive resorts make Fuerteventura, the second largest of the Canary Islands , a natural playground for beach lovers and watersports enthusiasts. If you don't want to do anything more energetic than lie on the shore and soak up the sun, Fuerteventura is a wonderful place to unwind – days can almost come to a complete standstill and evenings seem to roll on endlessly towards the cobalt blue horizon. Fuerteventura has a wealth of beauty spots, found around the golden coastline and throughout the dramatic, volcanic interior whilst cosmopolitan resorts flaunt an array of excellent restaurants and bars to round off those relaxing days. Beaches Fuerteventura is home to some of the finest beaches in the Canaries – 152 unspoilt stretches of silky sand and translucent seas, many of which lie completely empty. The coastal breeze makes the embracing waters excellent for windsurfing and other watersports. The long rolling expanses of gleaming white dunes that make up Corralejo National Park are an unofficial naturist reserve with plenty of room to perfect your all over tan without being disturbed. Shopping The Canary Islands are duty-free and the prices for some goods may be better than at home. The biggest bargains are on spirits, tobacco, perfumes and cosmetics. For more unusual souvenirs and gifts there are baskets made from banana leaves, aloe vera products, local lace and embroidery. Nightlife Evenings in Fuerteventura are typically a low key affair with discos and nightclubs a little thin on the ground. Instead, much of the evening entertainment is based in the hotels. Corralejo boasts a handful of bars, several discos and a good selection of restaurants while Caleta de Fuste has a wide range of bars and restaurants catering for most tastes and budgets. Evenings in Jandia amount to good food, accompanied by a bottle of wine and friendly company whether in a local tapas bar, international restaurant or in the nearby Canarian fishing village of Morro Jable . Cool evenings, laid back cafés and low-key nightlife are the perfect balance to long days spent on the beach. Sightseeing Fuerteventura isn't all about beaches. Head inland and explore the barren, volcanic landscapes or follow in the footsteps of Berber pirates and pay a visit to Betancuria, the former capital, built on the sides of an extinct volcano. Now a little village in a green valley surrounded by hot, windswept scrubland, it has the appearance of being a mirage. You could also enjoy a day trip to the neighbouring island of Lanzarote . Visit the famous Timanfaya National Park while you're there, known for its volcanic peaks and geological wonders. Local Specialities The main crops on the island are tomatoes and potatoes, so expect to find these used in many of the regional specialities such as 'puchero', a Canarian stew and 'papas arrugadas', small, salted potatoes cooked in their skins and dipped in 'mojo', a sauce of parsley or red peppers mixed with oil and garlic. The ever popular 'paella' features heavily on the menu as does ocean-fresh seafood including sardines, tuna and squid - waiters will often bring a tray for you to choose from. Follow this with some of Fuerteventura 's famous goats' milk cheese, 'majorero'. Money Matters There are €1.50 to the £1.00 as at 7th September 2005. Banking hours are Monday-Friday 08.30-14.00. Major credit cards are accepted at most shops, hotels and restaurants. Dress Code In most hotels and aparthotels gentlemen are required to wear long trousers to dinner. Please Note Most hotels or apartments ask customers to vacate their rooms between 10am and 12 midday. For late afternoon or evening flights, late check out rooms may be available. Please see Your Holiday, Your Choice options with your accommodation information.
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