Thinking of taking a sunshine break on the popular holiday island of Lanzarote this year? You certainly won’t be alone if so, as during the course of 2009 close to 1.4 million tourists visited this unique little Canary Island. Located just off the coast of West Africa. With many planning their trip around specific events and festivals that take place on Lanzarote every year.

The island expects to welcome around 750,000 tourists from the UK during the course of 2010. And many of these visitors will be booking their own self catering accommodation - such as villas in Lanzarote - direct online. Often booking specific dates to coincide with their favourite island fiesta or festival.

For holiday makers the islands many Lanzarote villas and apartments to pick from across most seasons.

Carnaval kicks off in February and is arguably the most colourful celebration of the year. This fiesta has its roots in Roman history – as well as the traditions of Lent. And has long been seen as an excuse for letting your hair down before the upcoming period of abstinence. The event is staggered so it takes place at different times in different parts of the island. With the most riotous celebrations reserved for the capital city of Arrecife and the largest resort of Puerto del Carmen.

Iron Man hits the island in late May. This event is widely regarded as one of the toughest triathlons the world. As over 1000 super fit contestants battle it out over a course comprising a 3km swim, followed by a 180km bike ride – all topped off with a full marathon. The top 60 entrants win a slice of the prize money and a coveted slot in the Grand Final in Hawaii. Although plenty of entrants never even make it to the finishing line such is the gruelling nature of this competition.

Lanzarote is also a great destination for music lovers too as there are concerts and festivals taking place throughout the year. Among the best is Jazz Canarias which visits the island every July. And which showcases some of the best young talent from the world of jazz. In previous years featuring free live performances from the likes of the guitarist Kyle Eastwood –offspring of the famous actor Clint Eastwood. All of which takes place in the atmospheric setting of the historic former island capital of Teguise.

It’s also well worth booking up holiday apartments in Lanzarote during September. As the island plays host to the Costa Musica Festival. Which showcases an eclectic selection of dance orientated acts right on the beach at Playa Bastian in Costa Teguise. And in the past has featured acts such as the James Taylor Quartet and the Killer Barbies. Along with a host of leading DJ talent.

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