There is nothing quite as exciting as discovering somewhere new on holiday. Trying out new restaurants, exploring the attractions and wandering for hours makes for the ideal short break, especially when the weather is lovely and warm. I love to travel and aim to visit a new city or country at least once a year. That said, I am also a bit of a creature of habit, and there is one destination I have returned to repeatedly that never loses its appeal.
I first went to Playa Blanca in Lanzarote aged just nine, and it has since become my family's ultimate go-to retreat. If you have visited before, you will know it feels very much like a second home. British and Irish tourists are everywhere, numerous seafront bars screen football while serving pints and full English breakfasts, and the streets are lined with familiar shops including Spar, Mango, Aldi and Lidl. But the glorious sunshine, stunning beaches, distinctive landscape and lovely villas make it exceptional, so it is hardly surprising that my family and I always look forward to our visits there.
Familiar Destination, Different Atmosphere
We have been so often that all the typical tourist attractions have been crossed off our list. Timanfaya volcano, the cactus gardens and Mirador del Rio — a spectacular viewpoint nearly 500 metres above sea level — are all worthwhile visits, but nowadays when we go it is purely for unwinding. However, after our return earlier this month, I spotted a major difference, and unfortunately not a positive one.
Like most holidaymakers, there is only one thing occupying my thoughts when I travel — and that is the food. Playa Blanca has an abundance of outstanding restaurants catering to every possible taste, from traditional Spanish tapas and paella to sushi, curries, pasta and countless other options. There are certain places we return to without fail, as well as exciting newcomers constantly appearing on the scene. It is really unusual to have a disappointing meal anywhere across Playa Blanca.
Quieter Restaurants and Possible Causes
However, this year many of the restaurants we went to were noticeably quieter than usual. The island itself appeared no less busy than normal, but even during peak periods, the dining spots we passed or visited had noticeably fewer customers. Asia Playa Blanca, a personal favourite, was practically empty when we dropped in for lunch one afternoon. One family arrived, took their seats and promptly left — a disheartening sight, especially given the exceptional standard and presentation of the Japanese cuisine.
La Bodegon, a superb tapas spot along the waterfront, also seemed to be serving considerably fewer customers than I have seen before. While Lanzarote has pleasant weather throughout the year, visitor numbers typically drop during winter — but this was May, and the streets were as packed as ever. The slump in restaurant footfall could be down to the construction of several large, all-inclusive hotels near the resort over the past few years. For families in particular, opting for half-board at one of these properties is likely far more cost-effective and convenient than hunting down a different restaurant each evening.
Recommendations for Visitors
If Playa Blanca is on your travel radar this year, a wander through the old town and a visit to a couple of local restaurants is highly recommended. Top picks would include Imagine India, La Casa Roja and Primari for curries, paella and Aperol Spritz respectively. The staff are wonderfully friendly and attentive — you will often be treated to a complimentary Limoncello or honey rum at the end of your meal — and you might just stumble upon your new favourite dining destination.
