Janine Kelso checks out attractions and hotels on the Spanish island ahead of the ABTA Travel Convention
The organisers of this year’s ABTA conference have already sold more than 300 tickets for the October event, aided by new pricing strategies where agents can book early to save money.
An ABTA spokeswoman said she was “really pleased” with the ticket sales, which are up on last year.
The association still has 40 free places available to agents who want to attend the convention. To qualify for free registration and accommodation, agents should be first-time visitors or be returning after a break of five years or more.
The headline sponsor Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is also sending 20 agents to the event.
This year’s event will be in Gran Canaria. Katerina Bomshtein, the tourist board’s UK spokeswoman, said: “We want to tell the British market Gran Canaria is different from how it was in the 1960s when there was only drinking and sun.
“We have so much more to offer, such as golf and spas. We also have a lot of new hotels and 47% of the island is UNESCO protected.”
The ABTA spokeswoman added: “When agents think of the Canaries, Gran Canaria may not always be their first choice, but there are some amazing hotels with great designs.”
An icebreaker party will be held at the Villa del Conde hotel on Monday October 6, while the mega fiesta will take place at the lighthouse on Tuesday October 7. The venue for the farewell party on Wednesday October 8 has yet to be finalised.
ABTA buddy scheme
Agents going to the show alone can be matched up with a friend. See thetravelconvention.com for more information.
Where to stay
The ABTA Travel Convention official hotels. Most of these hotels are a five-minute walk from the conference centre.
Lopesan Costa Meloneras: This four-star beachfront hotel has waterfalls at its entrance. Facilities include wi-fi, a business centre, infinity pool and spa.
Riu Grand Palace Maspalomas Oasis: Situated on the beach, this five-star hotel is near the lighthouse. It has four bars, three restaurants, a swimming pool, spa and wi-fi.
Seaside Palm Beach: With its 1970s retro-style, this is the only design hotel in the Canaries. Close to the beach and shops, there are three restaurants and two bars.
Grand Hotel Residencia: Overlooking the dunes, this five-star boutique hotel has a calm ambience. There is a restaurant, pool and spa.
Sheraton Salobre Golf Resort and Spa: Overlooking the Salobre golf course, this swanky five-star hotel affords fantastic views of the mountains, the dunes and the sea. Facilities include restaurants, bars, pools and a spa.
H10 Playa Meloneras Palace: This five-star hotel has three restaurants, three bars, two pools, a sports centre and a spa.
Riu Palace Meloneras: This four-star hotel has two restaurants, three bars, two pools and a gym.
Tips from a local
“Take a mountain trip, taking in the quaint villages of Tejeda and Artenara. Visit the charming northern villages of Firgas, Arucas and Teror.
“Head to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, including the Botanic Gardens. See the dunes of Maspalomas and go sailing. Explore the Cueva Pintada Archaeological Park.”
Maria Lezcano, from Firgas
