To me, there is little more that I could ask from Gran Canaria. The island has it all: golden beaches, beautiful scenery, a wonderful climate, varied resorts and an endless selection of activities.

I stayed in Playa del Ingles, a bustling and vibrant resort in the south. With its never-ending stretch of stunning beach dotted with cocktail bars and eateries, the resort is perfect for relaxing. If, like me, you seek some excitement after lazing in the sunshine, there's a great range of watersports to wake you up. As for the evenings, I fell in love with the incredible selection of bars, restaurants, shows and nightclubs. This place is buzzing with atmosphere and entertainment.

For a quieter, more relaxing holiday I go to the neighbouring resort of San Agustin, a secluded gem which can be easily reached by a short bus ride from Playa del Ingles. A vast contrast, the sands change from golden to black and the beach splits into three sections cut by jagged cliffs. The most relaxing moment of my holiday had to be strolling along the promenade at San Agustin listening to the waves crashing against the rocks, then indulging in a glass of sangria in a quaint tapas bar overlooking the beach - simply magical!

If I could recommend one thing to do in Gran Canaria, it would be to visit the breathtaking sand dunes at Maspalomas. Protected as a nature reserve, I haven't seen anything like it, with dunes stretching up to 10 metres high, where just a few steps from the path, I felt like I was in the middle of the Sahara Desert! Explore on foot (but avoid barefoot as the sand gets hot!) or there are camel safaris, which show the best views of the vast sands and diverse flora and wildlife at the edges of the stunning lagoon.

I was fortunate enough the visit at the end of June, when the locals celebrate the Fiesta de San Juan. The street party atmosphere was like nothing I have ever experienced - beach bonfires, fireworks, music, dancing and a traditional dip in the sea at midnight - making this a night I will never forget!

I can't recommend this island more - I love it!