Do it yourself

If you are one of those people who misses home comforts (a good cup of tea is hard to come by in Tenerife), then opt for the three-star Hotel-Apart Colon Rambla. Along with all the usual amenities, every spacious apartment has a kitchen with fridge, cooker and all the bits. Set in a location overlooking the Rambla del General Franco (see below), the relaxed atmosphere and professional service will make your British cuppa taste all the finer.

Singles from £50 (Calle Viera y Clavijo 49, Tel: 272550, www.hotel-colonrambla.com)

THE BEST DINERS IN TOWN

Cutting edge eating

A little off the beaten track, Restaurante Libano is well worth the trek. Situated 100 metres or so up from Plaza del Paz, this welcoming Lebanese eatery serves a wide range of both meat and vegetarian dishes. While the traditionally prepared kebabs are sumptuous, I advise the gastronauts among you to try the Jaruf Menghen (lamb stuffed with rice, raisins, almonds and cinnamon) which is as delicious as it is difficult to pronounce.

Mains from £5 (Calle Santiago Cuadrado 36, Tel: 285914)

A local classic

If you wish to sample some authentic Canarian cuisine, then look no further than the Bodeguita Canaria. With a distinctly rustic decor and ambience, the menu features many local specialities including garbanzas (chickpeas), rabbit and cuttlefish. And be sure to order some papas con mojo (salty boiled potatoes in a hot pepper sauce), the original Canarian delicacy and a sure-fire way to gain the native diners’ respect. Mains from £4 (Calle Imeldo Seris 18, Tel: 293216)

Nice and easy

With a large Italian community resident in Santa Cruz, getting a good pizza is no problem. My favourite is Da Gi Gi, which serves a fine range of antipasti and pasta as well as freshly prepared pizzas. Although there are two restaurants in town to choose from, I’d opt for the one just off the seafront at Calle La Marina, whose pastel interior is decked with vivid, surreal paintings. For those who enjoy eating al fresco, there is also a shaded terrace. Pizzas from £3 (calle La Marina, Plaza Isable II, Tel: 248971)

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