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International travel has been affected everywhere; some places more than others. The Canary Islands are no exception. The worldwide economic downturn has caused Canary Islands residents to see their own islands in a new light.

The Canary Islands have been a popular destination for International travelers for several decades. The area, in fact, relies upon tourism as its economic mainstay. Over thirty percent of its gross domestic product is generated by tourism. An average of ten million visitors vacation on one or more of the Canary Islands every year.

The wavering economy hasn’t stopped tourists from traveling to the Canary Islands. Tourism numbers haven’t climbed, but haven’t taken a devastating dive either. Still, it appears that those who are holidaying in the Canaries are being more thrifty with their vacation dollars.

It also appears that native islanders who reside there year-round are traveling less. This may be the result of fewer tourism dollars being spent within the country. Those who own the businesses which cater to the international visitors have less of their own money to spend on outside travel.

Many Canary Islands residents are instead choosing to appreciate anew what international visitors have long been drawn to. They are opting to take “staycations” and visit the attractions in their own backyards.

The islands’ biggest draw is typically the balmy weather. However, outside visitors also appreciate the rich history and the diverse geography of the Canary Islands.

Canary Islands residents, on the other hand, don’t need to leave home for good weather. They are instead seeing the islands through the eyes of outsiders.

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of seven islands. Gran Canaria and Tenerife are the largest of the islands, and home to both of the Canary Islands’ joint capital cities. Both islands are popular tourist destinations, along with Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The four make up the largest and most populated of the archipelago.

The smaller Canary Islands of La Gomera, El Hierro and La Palma also draw a significant number of visitors each year. They have fewer clubs and resorts than the larger islands. Instead, they tend to attract tourists who desire smaller crowds and more adventurous vacations.

All of the islands are of volcanic origin. Many are home to diverse ecological preserves and boast flora and fauna that cannot be found anywhere else. Ancient structures and preserved ruins can be found on a number of the islands. It is these attractions that are appealing to the Canary Island “staycationer.”

While similarities exist between all seven islands, significant differences are abundant too. Many of the islands feature regional cuisine and specialty local wines. Residents from one island can visit another and get a very different cultural experience without spending a lot of money.

Local events also draw visitors from one island to another. The various islands are home to golf, water sports, motorbike and other popular tournaments and races. These types of events have grown substantially over the past decade and many draw thousands or more spectators annually.

Those who choose to remain on their own islands can still enjoy the culture in their backyards. Camping destinations draw locals for quick, easy getaways. The slow economic market means that good deals can often be found on lodging, particularly cabins, condos and private rentals.

It’s likely that as the economy recovers, the Canary Islands will see an upswing in international visitor numbers. Until then, local businesses that thrive on tourism dollars may have to rely more heavily on native islanders to stay afloat.