Dangers and Nuisances

Dangers and Nuisances The Canaries are not really dangerous and the worst that is likely to happen to you is an attack of sunburn or hangover. Violence against tourists is very unusual. Common sense at all times should spare you any grief. The most common crime in the Canaries is theft of hire cars. Should you leave your car overnight in the street of one of the big resorts or towns, there is every chance that your car will be broken into. Do not leave anything of value in your car (even locked in the boot) or in your hotel room. Use the safe that is generally offered by any hotel.

Pickpockets and Bag snatchers are also a problem and they have got their act together. Beware of people that brush up close to you or jostle you and don't leave bags and camera equipment unattended for even a moment. Don’t become another petty-crime statistic.

Avoid dingy, empty city alleys and back streets or anywhere else for that matter that doesn't feel right at night.

If you are the victim of theft, you must report it to the police and get a report copy, if you want to make an insurance claim. If your passport is stolen or lost, you must contact your consulate to get a replacement issued.

There are not many nuisances but noise in the major resorts can be a problem. If it does get too noisy... use earplugs or head for more tranquil areas.

Lager Louts
Another nuisance you may encounter are the loud and drunken louts that can become quite unpredictable. If you are going to Gran Canaria to 'party', bear in mind that certain resorts can get quite rowdy at times.

Sunburn
Finally, regardless of the time of the year that you choose to visit Gran Canaria, don't be fooled by cool breezes – even on cloudy days! You are after all next to the Sahara and you will burn quickly – particularly if you are fair skinned and don't see a lot of sun back home. Put on a sun lotion with a high protection factor (every 1-2 hours). In this case, too much is better than not enough!
Sunburn... a real threat!

Our tip:
A zippable backpack is a pretty safe way to carry your belongings but a concealed money belt or shoulder wallet will certainly keep your money and documents out of the clutches of pickpockets.