Tenerife is a favourite for European wintering because it combines very good climate, a comfortable pace of life, a safe social environment and a wide range of activities, making it a particularly attractive destination for those who want to spend the winter in the sun and warmth. A conversation with a Latvian Tenerife enters its third winter
Tenerife has become one of the most popular winter destinations for Latvians and other Europeans in recent years, and often not just for a short break, such as a week, but for several - even several months. To better understand why this Canary Island is so popular, Novatours asked Kristine, a Latvian who is wintering in Tenerife for the third year in a row.
Right at the beginning of the conversation, Kristīne smiles and confesses that the main reason why Tenerife has captivated her so much is simple - the sun. Not an abstract one, but a real, everyday sun, which is quite rare in Latvian winters. “Here you don't have to wait for the sun, it's everyday. And of course, it comes with the bonus of pleasant and guaranteed warm weather. Even in the hottest month of the year (February), the island has no less than +20...+24 °C warmth.”
Tenerife is one of the few European destinations with a truly stable climate all year round. This is thanks to the ocean winds that surround the island and the Teide volcano in the middle of the island, which creates different microclimates, offering a choice between the warm southern region and the cooler, greener north. This stable climate is one of the reasons why Tenerife is known as the “island of eternal spring”.
Many holidaymakers go to Tenerife with a computer in their backpack because the island offers an excellent environment for remote working. There are countless cafés with stable internet access, accessible co-working spaces and an atmosphere that doesn't create tension, but instead helps you to keep your rhythm and calm. Moreover, the time difference with Latvia is only two hours, which allows you to adapt your work schedule, attend meetings and communicate with colleagues without the inconvenience of jet lag.
“Even though I have to start a little earlier than I would in Latvia because of the time difference, I love it,” says Kristīne. “I start the day by jumping straight into the work, which makes me more productive. But in Latvia, when the working day is over, I still have time for swimming, walking and other activities. And last but not least, we have evenings are still sunny and warm.”
Local supermarkets and markets offer fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood, while Spanish cuisine gives island life a special flair. “I love being able to cook my own meals - everything from fresh tuna and avocados to local cheese and wine is here,” says Christine. Many people choose apartments with a kitchen, which allow them to live just like at home, but with the sun outside their window and the chance to enjoy walks along the ocean in their free time.
A climate suitable for health and well-being
Many people go to Tenerife for its health and emotional well-being. The moist, warm sea air, the salinity of the ocean, the gentle sun and the stable temperatures act as a natural therapy those with respiratory problems, asthma, seasonal depression or joint pain. The climate is not only pleasant, but also mild and balanced.
“I noticed a change in my own well-being,” says Kristīne. “I always felt heavy and tired in Latvian winters, but here it only takes a few weeks for my body to feel light again. I feel that I have much more energy. It's not just the effect of a change in environment, it's a real physical difference.”
Convenient transport
Tenerife is easy to get around, both daily and at weekends. Public transport is well developed, with regular buses connecting the coastal resorts, the interior and major cities. The roads are well maintained, making car rental a popular choice for both holidaymakers and travellers who want the freedom to go wherever their feet take them. Kristīne says that mobility is one of the reasons why everyday life on the island flows so naturally. Everything is accessible within half an hour or an hour - the beach, the mountains, the towns, the markets. This creates a sense of freedom, which is sometimes lacking in Latvia in winter.”
Additional conveniences include direct flights between Tenerife and Riga, making it quick to fly to the island and just as easy to return to Latvia for a work event if needed. No waiting for connecting flights at other airports, no complicated connections - a major advantage for those planning a long stay but want a convenient connection to home.
Not boring
Tenerife has a wonderful Contrast - Sun and beaches in the south, green forests and culture in the north, and the majestic Teide volcano in the centre. “There really is no boredom here. On weekends we go to see the interior of the island: mountain villages, wineries, small restaurants with local delicacies. And if you want activities - surfing, hiking or even whale watching.” Christine emphasises that during a long stay she particularly appreciates natural diversity - volcanic expanses, mountains, forests and, of course, the magical ocean.
Tenerife is an island where winter simply doesn't exist - just sun, warmth and summer calm. It is Europe with all its comforts, but with a tropical feel and a rhythm that naturally slows down. Remote working, ocean walks, mountain scenery and fresh local produce all blend easily here. That's why many people who come “just for a week” soon realise: this is a destination where you can live longer, feel lighter and find the winter sun when you need it most.
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