It's a bit of a cliché, I know but Tenerife really is an island of contrast and it certainly has something for everyone. If clubbing and nightlife is your scene, then there are a multitude of places to chose from in Playa de las Americas - head for the Starco Centre or Veronicas.

However, for me (as I'm a little past it!), I tend to frequent the more sedate bars where I can be serenaded by everyone from the Drifters or Elvis to Dolly Parton (not the real ones of course!). There's an abundance of restaurants to choose from including some very classy Italian, Lebanese and the such but, as I'm in Spain I head for the Spanish restaurants. We always find tapas a good option, especially when there are a few of us, and often leave the waiters to choose for us, so we get something different each time. Don't forget though that you are in the Canaries, so you should try some of the local delicacies as well - Papas Arrugadas are little potatoes, traditionally cooked in sea water until they are wrinkled and deliciously salty, served with a spicy Mojo sauce or garlic Alioli.

I've never been one for just lying around (although the beaches are fabulous!) so I like to get out and about, and slap bang in the middle of Tenerife is Mount Teide, the island's largest volcano (there are over 400 on the island…not active, of course!). I love going here. The air is crisp, the landscape incredible and the views of the surrounding Islands simply breathtaking!

For my history fix, I like to head to the capital, Santa Cruz, a proper Spanish city with amazing architecture, winding lanes and fantastic café bars and restaurants. Your phrase book will come in handy as this is as far removed from the holiday resorts as you can get, and if you visit around February, one of the biggest carnivals in the world! And it's all accessible by an easy bus journey from the south of the island!

This is a beautiful, fascinating island and once you've tasted the “real” Tenerife, I can pretty much guarantee that, like me, you'll be back for more!