CANARY ISLANDS

I just got back a few days ago from spending 5 days, 4 nights on the island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, just off the coast of Morocco/the Sahara Dessert. The whole weekend was absolutely wonderful and full of surprises. I had no idea where we were going until we were boarding the plane Everything was planned from the flight to the rental car to the hotels and restaurants. As an American, the Canary Islands weren't really on my radar for vacation spots, so I was completely delighted by this charming island. When we first arrived, I was a bit nervous as the buildings looked like a rainbow of block houses built in the 70's, but as we drove further into the into the city, I saw the charm that made this island such a special place. The beautiful Spanish colonial buildings, verandas and cobblestone streets are just a few things that make Gran Canaria a beautiful place to visit. As we explored the island over the following four days, I was blown away by the stunning views, incredible cliffs, enchanting forests, arid dessert and delicious food. The weather was a perfect break from the cold in London, and I bathed in the warmth of the sun every second I could. My favorite stops along the way: exploring the mountain villages, the local Sunday market in the town of Teror, eating the local sweets in the beautiful mountain town on Tejeda, exploring the windy western coastal roads by car and running across the sand dunes of Maspalomas. We've been back in London for a week and a half now and I'm already dreaming of going back.

{photos by Julia Ferguson of Room for Dessert}