Sunshine break that put a spring in our step
COSTLY PCR tests. Specialist travel insurance. Fear of countries on the Green List suddenly turning Amber. Like many, I thought a family holiday abroad was going to be nigh-on impossible or at least not worth the stress. But persevere we did – to the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas in Corralejo, Fuerteventura – and thank goodness we did, as we rediscovered how transformative holidays still are.
We plumped for an all-inclusive resort where we could take stock and relish the small things, the previously unacknowledged precious moments of being with your family; to swim in a pool in the sunshine; to run through the waves with your children.
For a brief week, all the uncertainty and worry that has come with the pandemic felt a long way away.
The hotel was traditional in its styling but, more importantly these days, it was clean. Scrupulously so. Hand-sanitiser stations were everywhere, while the staff could not have been more attentive.
The hotel boasts two pools, both bracingly cold but which proved extremely welcome on typically hot days. There was also a heated outdoor Jacuzzi, very much in demand when the temperatures dropped a tad.
All meals were taken buffet-style in the main restaurant, while local beers, wines and spirits were also included in the price.
If you have been craving activities and want to squeeze more out of a break, Tui organises a number of trips exclusively from the resort. For the more adventurous there is a combined 4x4 and catamaran tour that allows you to drive along deserted beaches, then set sail on the high seas.
Want to stay put? Pick up some rackets and head to one of four tennis courts available on site, all free to use and with equipment supplied, or else relax in the spa.
As the sun set on yet another lovely day and the view from the balcony over the pool, beach and sea stretched before us, we realised that holidays are precious and that the world is waiting for us to visit.