Here’s Why You Should Study Abroad in Tenerife
If you’re thinking of studying abroad in Spain, Tenerife is the perfect option as a stand-alone or side destination. La Laguna is one of the two UNESCO World Heritage sites on the island and home to one of the oldest and most well renowned universities in Spain.
Right off the coast of Spain, the island of Tenerife is the largest canary island. It holds treasures and experiences that will enrich your study abroad experience. Whether you’re studying in Spain to learn the language, about the Spanish heritage and culture, or to simply be in a beautiful setting, Tenerife will extend your perspective on the beauty and unique culture of Spain.
And if you’re in Tenerife for the winter, no need to worry! One of the main appeals of Tenerife is that it’s 80 degrees year round. Hello sunshine and warmth.
Why Tenerife?
An unknown paradise, many have not heard of the island and all that it has to offer. From beaches to water, adventure and land sports, Tenerife has the perfect mix of activities and education for college students looking for a unique study abroad trip. Ideal for students interested in Spanish culture and language, most people on the island speak Spanish, allowing students to practice in realistic, real-world setting. (English is still widely spoken, rest assured!). If you are majoring or minoring in international business, Spanish, or political science, this is an experience you simply can’t get from doing research, reports or taking classes.
Did you know Tenerife is an island famously known for stargazing? Calling all astronomy majors or minors: Tenerife has some of the clearest skies in all of Europe. Due to the unbelievable array of stars in the Tenerife sky, there is an astronomy observatory set up right on the island, which makes stargazing super accessible. The island offers state-of-the-art research facilities for research and observations that will enrich your education, knowledge of stars and what the universe is made up of.
Not only is there a wide variety of opportunities to learn about astronomy and Spanish culture, but Tenerife is a beautiful standalone destination. Imagine this: a place filled with delicious food, European architecture, a sky filled with stars, the third largest volcano in the world and beaches all around you. Tenerife is an island that’s full of life and excitement during day and night. Did we mention culture and food too? Read more about the top Tenerife festivals here and food here.
Point A to Point B and Back
There are several options for transportation from Spain to Tenerife. The most common way to get from Spain to Tenerife is to fly. Being only two hours, the flight allows you to get from Spain to Tenerife quickly. Getting around has never been easier- you can fly from any major city in Spain. There are hourly flights from Madrid, and daily flights from Barcelona, Seville, Malaga and other cities in Spain. The short flight allows you to take in the coastlines of both Spain and the Canary Islands from the air (I mean, how cool is that)? The flight is a way to transport you to two enriching learning sites with polar opposite environments.
Alternatively, you have the option of taking a ferry. There is only one ferry that goes from Spain to Tenerife, which makes the experience unique; the ferry operates 2 times a week leaving from a port in Spain and arriving on the island of Tenerife. Although travel time may seem daunting, the ferry ride is a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend time with friends, slow down and enjoy the great views. In addition, the ferry allows you to bring a car on-board, which is a great way to ensure that your will have reliable transportation around the island of Tenerife. The ferry is an affordable option for transportation if you are like most college students (and on a very limited budget).
All in all, if you choose Tenerife as a study abroad experience, you won’t regret it. This magical place is a truly unique destination like no other. It’s a place where you’ll be able to learn while still having fun. Mt. Teide, whale and dolphin watching, arts and culture, spa and wellness, adventure sports…you’ll never say ‘I’m bored’ while in Tenerife. (And did I mention it also has amazing food and wine?). Come see for yourself why Tenerife is truly a magical unknown paradise.
