Lanzarote Flights – Dealing With Delays
Delays are the bane of every traveller and tourist. But whilst some airports offer little in the way of distraction Arrecife airport in Lanzarote offers a surprisingly large amount of things to do for anyone hoping to escape the terminal boredom of a delayed departure. Including some interesting artworks, a museum and a tropical garden tour.
Arrecife airport is the sole international terminal on the island – servicing around 1.8 million passengers every year. The majority of whom arrive on flights to Lanzarote from the UK and Ireland. Either under the aegis of either a travel company such as First Choice or under their own steam as a result of booking their own flights online with low cost operators such as easyJet.
The airport is in fact located some 3km outside the capital city of the same name, close to a conurbation called Playa Honda. Which is well off the tourist track. But which in has a delightful seafront promenade, miles of beach and plenty of decent bars and restaurants. Taxis run from right outside the arrivals hall and Playa Honda is just five minutes away for anyone in need of a total escape.
Many travellers are unable to leave the confines of the airport when dealing with a delay though. Which is where Arrecife airport comes up trumps. As it actually offers a few interesting things to do other than just nurse a coffee or stroll around some shops.
The Airport Museum is located just across from the main terminal – and is housed in the original terminal building and control tower that dates back to 1941. When Lanzarote´s first ever airport (or runway) opened for business. The Airport Museum first opened in 2002 and houses loads of great old photos and interactive displays and exhibits. Visitors can even get into the original control tower and play at controlling flights. The Museum is open every day from 10am to 2pm and admission is entirely free of charge.
Any visitor to Lanzarote will have become familiar with the work of Cesar Manrique. The island born artist who helped to shape the controlled development of tourism on the island. Even at the airport his influence is inescapable. As the entrance way houses a massive sculpture – or wind toy.
Entitled Homage to Pepin Ramirez – who was the former island governor who helped to realise Manrique’s vision for Lanzarote.
Alternatively take a calming stroll around the airport gardens. With the aid of
the recently launched Botanical Guide. Which is available from the Information desk in the departures area. This isnt Kew by any means – but visitors can still at least enjoy being outdoors whilst taking a look at over 130 different species of local plant life.
