Enjoy 'spectacular scenery and stunning beaches' in the Canaries

Those planning to escape the chilly weather and take a cheap holiday abroad this summer may wish to consider a break in the Canary Islands.

Writing for the Independent, travel expert Simon Calder said there is plenty of "spectacular scenery" to explore there.

He described the southern shore of Tenerife as a "place of constant fascination" for him.

"The rocky coastline has been much built-upon. Yet even around Playa de las Americas and the other resorts that cluster together, you can find patches of shore where shoulders of rock shrug off man's attempts to colonise," Mr Calder noted.

Those travelling to the island will, he added, find several unspoilt hillside towns to explore, as well as dolphins and other aquatic creatures.

According to the American Express Global Foreign Exchange Services Currency Index, which was published earlier this week, Brits are as keen as ever to travel abroad, despite the current economic downturn.