The Internet has made it easy for tourists to eschew the services of travel agents and tour operators and book their own breaks direct online. Creating an upsurge in independent travel to popular holiday destinations such as Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. Where tourists have been enjoying the year round warm climate for over forty years.

Lanzarote is the third most popular of the Canaries – the island chain located off the coast of Africa that became synonymous with package tourism during the 1980´s. But the days of Club 18-30 and full English breakfasts all round are long gone. As the islands also offer more upmarket alternatives these days.

You could argue that you are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation on the island and whilst many visitors prefer to stay in private villas in Lanzarote or one of the varied range of self catering Lanzarote apartments, more discerning travellers have started to consider hotel accommodation.

Amongst the best known of these is the Gran Melia Salinas – which was constructed during the 1970´s and which is located in the resort of Costa Teguise. A local artist called César Manrique was involved in its design and his trademark touches - such as a huge white lagoon like swimming pool - are evident throughout. So ensuring that the Salinas is still widely regarded as one of the best hotels in Lanzarote.

The best known hotel on the island though is undoubtedly the Arrecife Gran, which could in fact even be described as notorious. As developers sneaked this up during the 1980s in complete contravention of island planning laws. And as a result it was declared illegal by the local government – who simply left it to rot on the seafront for many years, before taking the decision to allow transformation of this eyesore into an upmarket hotel.

The Gran Melia hotel is owned by Spain´s Sol hotel chain, who also have another 5 star establishment in the southern resort of Playa Blanca. The Gran Melia Volcan is situated right next to the upmarket Rubicon Marina development, which provides an atmospheric environment for dining out or strolling around the shops. The Volcan also has a unique entrance hall atrium which is designed to echo the islands most famous landmark – the volcanoes of the Timanfaya National Park which are located just a short drive away from the resort.

Around half of all visitors to Lanzarote prefer self-catering accommodation to hotels and there’s a wide selection of Lanzarote villas for them to choose from across the island. Apartments in Lanzarote also provide a good value alternative for these seeking to book a break in the sun on a budget.