Private tour in Santa cruz de tenerife John R
5.0
(9) reviews
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John R.
5.0
Guide rating
127
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My name is John and I am a qualified Canary Island Guide working on the island of Tenerife. I enjoy meeting people and showing off the delights of my island. I consider myself easy to get on with and always do my best to make your day interesting and relaxing. Although I am British I was brought up here in the islands when the rhythm of life was perhaps a little gentler. In fact, I have a preference for gentle, unhurried excursions with plenty of time for taking photographs and for clients to stretch their legs. My Scottish ancestors settled in the Canary Islands over two hundred years ago so I can tell you quite a lot about the real, native Tenerife with numerous anecdotes and interesting information one doesn't usually find in books or brochures. Tenerife has a fascinating history. Its people are unique and proud of their connections with the original pre-Hispanic Guanche inhabitants. During my excursions I can tell you something about the Spanish conquest, the island's volcanic eruptions, its history of trade with Europe and America, its charming traditional customs, its involvement with piracy from as far back as the 16th century and much, much more. I offer guided tours in my own vehicle or sometimes a hired vehicle if necessary. But they are always private and for you only. I will also hire transport and a driver if your group is larger. We will see the places you choose to visit be they old town centres, historic monuments, volcanic landscapes, vineyards or even beaches. The island is full of fascinating contrasts, the vegetations and colours changing from valley to valley, from the black sand beaches hidden under cliffs to the amazing lunar landscapes inside the Teide National Park, from the coastline banana plantations to the vineyards on the sloping hills. And, of course, it is blessed with folklore and delicious local cuisine. In fact, if we have the time and you request it I will always try to squeeze in a visit to a local inn so you can sample some of the Canary Island recipes and wines. Tenerife is a remarkable island and I very much look forward to meeting you and showing you around. I am a qualified Official Canary Island Tourism Guide, with License Nº 3736, as issued by the Canary Island Government. To prepare myself for the required exam I took a course specifically designed for guides in the Canaries at ESETEC, (Canary Island School of Technical Training). This enabled me to pass the required examination to qualify as a guide. I am not a mountaineer so would not be able to take clients mountain climbing, for example up the slopes of Mount Teide, but I can, of course, take you on the cable car and walking along the many mountain and coastal tracks in Tenerife.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message John R.
This private excursion takes us deep into the scenic north of Tenerife where we will visit the Malmsey wine museum, if it is open, to sample an excellent choice of wines in the town of Icod de los Vinos. Shakespeare often mentioned Canary wines in his plays, and early European merchants came to purchase Tenerife's wines in the 16th and 17th centuries. As an alternative, depending if you are staying in a hotel on the north or south side of the island, is to visit a vineyard instead. We also visit a banana plantation on the tongue of a volcanic lava flow which nestles by the sea under steep cliffs. We will have a chance to learn about banana growing and enjoy scenery which is simply beautiful. The original mansion on the estate is a delight. It is one of the hidden aristocratic treasures of old Tenerife and, if it is open, we can enjoy strolling through its vast, palmed patio and garden. If we have time you might like a tapas lunch nearby.
9.30am - Meet at the cruise ship port or at your hotel. Drive towards the scenic northwest of the island. 10am - Visit a banana plantation and wine merchant's mansion, if open for visits. (Sometimes closed in July and August). 12am - Arrive at Icod de los Vinos to visit the famous dragon tree and to sample wines at the Malmsey Wine museum. If it is closed, we shall head to a vineyard in the northern valleys. You might also like to enjoy some delicious Canary cuisine before returning you to the port or hotel. 3pm - Return to your hotel or to the cruise ship port.
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Our mode of transport is a modern, comfortable 5-seater, air conditioned vehicle. Please bear in mind that if you require a vehicle with more space, or if there are more passengers, I usually hire a larger vehicle. NOTE: It is best to ask me before booking a tour if there is availability for a larger vehicle. This may also mean an increased fee because the island is having record numbers of visitors, and rental cars are difficult to come by at a reasonable price just now .
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
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9 reviews
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