The island has a large number of banana farms, both in the north and in the south, where you can visit a real banana farm in Tenerife. The beginning of banana cultivation in Tenerife dates back to the 15th century, with the first banana plantations from Southeast Asia.
The crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean around Tenerife and the Canary Islands are internationally known for their quality and temperatures of 70 degrees. Filled with a rich diversity of marine life, the island is an undersea paradise for experienced or first time divers.
Papas arrugadas [wrinkled potatoes] are, without doubt, the binding ingredient not only of Tenerife's traditional food, but of all Canarian cuisine. A simple dish, based on the small, black potatoes grown on the archipelago itself.
Tenerife is where bananas, grapes, tomatoes and potatoes are grown in the Canary Islands, many visitors to the island would say, and indeed they are, but many other fruit and vegetables are cultivated there too. It is easy to see why bananas would...
The barraquito is a coffee cocktail unique to the Canary Islands that adds layers of sweetness and alcohol to the traditional morning drink. Local lore suggests it's named after a man who first started ordering the mixture with his meals at the Imperial Bar on the island of Tenerife.
With the emphasis on freshness, everyday Canarian dishes comprise grilled meats or fish (tuna, parrot fish, vieja, swordfish, sea bass), soups, stews and vegetables - many of which are surprisingly hearty. The best way to discover an authentic culinary experience is to eat like - and eat with - the locals.