Unashamedly taking it easy at the Barceló Playa Blanca

It was indeed here where the magic was created, an eye-watering buffet breakfast agony of choice with all kinds of Canarian delicacies including Iberico and Serrano hams, hot chorizo sausages and local cheeses all fighting for your tastebud attention and complementing the usual cooked and continental offerings.

- BY DEAN MELLOR

Lunch makes way for complete waiter service, with dinner a combination of buffet starters and desserts and a mains ordered from the kitchen, with more hot offerings and sides (had more than my fair share of papas arrugadas with red and green mojo sauces) available from the buffet.

All are washed down with a good selection of excellent all inclusive wines, though other reds, whites, rosés and cavas are available for an extra charge. Evenings are also given that extra class with solo or duo acts performing while you dine.

On the other side of the hotel is the Family Level with its own Atlantic buffet restaurant, with Royal Level guests having the option to dine here if desired. The usual options of breakfast only, half board and all inclusive can be chosen in each Level depending on tastes and budgets.