city: Spain

Christmas Shopping at Las Arenas

Step into Christmas for a day of festive fun in Gran Canaria. You'll have plenty of time to shop ‘til you drop at the island's largest mall, and call in to see the impressive sand nativity sculptures, too. Miguel, one of our expert local guides, says ‘International artists join forces to create a life-size nativity scene sculpted entirely from sand. It's a unique work of art attracting more than 200,000 visitors every year. The sculptors use around 2,000 tonnes of sand to create their masterpieces.'With the bells ringing, we'll first make our way to Las Arenas Shopping Centre in the capital for a spot of Christmas shopping. Home to dozens of stores over three floors, you'll find lots of high street favourites and plenty of options for dining and relaxing, too. Expect dazzling decorations, bountiful bargains and an atmosphere jolly enough to put a smile on even the Grinch's face. What's more, TUI guests will enjoy a 20% discount on the ice-skating rink at the mall throughout the festive period.From 1st December to 7th January, your Christmas shopping trip will also include a photo stop at the world-famous sand nativity scene on Las Canteras beach. It's the perfect way to get in the Christmas mood. As is the sight of the twinkling 40-metre-high Christmas tree that greets you on arrival at the mall. Miguel says ‘Once Christmas has been and gone and the sand nativity has been dismantled, don't worry about the January blues because the best time to hit the shops is when the January Sales begin.'