Markets in Tenerife provide the ideal place to purchase some original Canarian products. In these picturesque, colourful and multi-ethnologic places you'll find nearly everything, from basic food produce to the ultimate fashion trend, all in a familiar relaxed atmosphere.

Most markets on the island are held in the morning from around 8:00 to 14:00, so you'll need to get there early and be prepared to haggle like a professional to secure the best bargains.

Every Sunday morning throughout the year, nearby Los Cristianos holds one of the biggest street markets on Tenerife. If you just follow the crowds, you'll soon end up at the eastern edge of the resort next to the Arona Gran hotel.

Every person entering the market does have to run the gauntlet of innumerable timeshare touts attempting to lure you to their development with offers of free car hire, free holidays or even cash rewards. Just smile, keep walking, and say no, and they'll soon move on to the next likely candidate.

Once inside the market it usually takes around 1.1/2 to 2 hours to see everything. A couple of words of advice, do not start to negotiate if you have no intention of buying, but do not be afraid to say no and walk away if the prices do not fall to a level that you are prepared to pay for an item. Common sense we know, but still easy to forget.

A much smaller street market is also held every Friday morning near to the marina at Golf del Sur. There's usually a variety of stalls, and is well worth a visit if you are staying at either Golf del Sur or Costa del Silencio.

On the first Sunday of every month, a Car Boot Sale is held at the tennis and bowling club at Costa del Silencio to support a local dogs home. You can normally expect to find all sorts of second-hand bits and pieces including books, clothes, cassettes and so on. There is usually a nice cake stall and also a stall selling old paintings and furniture.