Thisisgrancanaria.com Review

Based on looking at the website Thisisgrancanaria.com, it appears to be a platform for booking various holiday activities and excursions in Gran Canaria. While the site offers a range of options, its overall reliability and ethical considerations from an Islamic perspective raise significant concerns, leading to a strong recommendation against its use for a discerning Muslim traveler. The activities promoted often include elements that are either directly impermissible or lead to environments that are not conducive to an Islamic lifestyle.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Overall Recommendation: Not recommended for Muslim travelers.
• Purpose: Booking holiday activities in Gran Canaria.
• Key Issues Identified:
  • Lack of Halal Focus: No clear indication or filters for halal-friendly activities.
  • Promotes Impermissible Activities/Environments: Mention of “shows,” “nightlife,” and “beach clubs” suggests exposure to podcast, immodest dress, and potentially alcohol.
  • Transparency: While contact details are provided, specific information on ethical tourism, privacy policies beyond a cookie declaration, or detailed refund processes is not immediately prominent.
  • Customer Reviews: While some activities show high ratings, these are internal to the site and don’t provide independent verification of the overall service.
  • Absence of Ethical Framework: No mention of sustainability, responsible tourism, or adherence to any ethical guidelines.

This website, by promoting a broad range of tourist activities including those associated with “nightlife” and “shows,” inherently steers users towards environments that often include podcast, immodest interactions, and alcohol consumption—elements that are unequivocally impermissible in Islam.

A Muslim traveler seeks to enrich their journey without compromising their faith, and a platform that does not explicitly cater to or filter for halal experiences will invariably lead to situations contrary to Islamic principles.

It’s crucial for platforms offering travel experiences to recognize the diverse needs of their users, especially those whose faith dictates certain boundaries.

Without such a framework, even seemingly innocuous activities can become problematic when tied to a broader, unrestricted holiday environment.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Travel Planning:

Since Thisisgrancanaria.com promotes activities that often lead to impermissible environments, it’s essential to look for alternatives that align with Islamic principles.

The focus should be on activities and planning resources that prioritize modesty, avoid podcast, alcohol, and immodest interactions, and support a wholesome experience.

1. HalalBooking.com

   • Key Features: Specializes in halal-friendly travel, offering filters for women-only facilities, modest dress codes, no-alcohol policies, and private pools. Covers hotels, villas, and some tours.
   • Average Price: Varies widely based on destination and property type, generally competitive with mainstream travel sites but with added halal compliance.
   • Pros: Directly addresses Muslim travelers’ needs. extensive filtering options. trusted platform for halal travel.
   • Cons: Activity options might be limited compared to general booking sites. primarily focused on accommodation, less on specific local excursions.

2. Muslim-Friendly Travel Agencies e.g., local agencies specializing in ethical tours

   

   • Key Features: Personalized tour planning, often including prayer facilities, halal food arrangements, and culturally sensitive itineraries. They can vet local operators for compliance.
   • Average Price: Higher due to personalized service, but offers significant value in peace of mind.
   • Pros: Tailored experiences. expert knowledge of local halal options. direct communication.
   • Cons: Requires more research to find reputable agencies. may not offer instant online booking.

3. Trusted Local Tour Operators Vetted for Halal Compliance

   • Key Features: Focus on cultural tours, historical sites, nature exploration, and family-friendly activities that can be conducted modestly. Requires direct communication to confirm specific halal requirements.
   • Average Price: Varies based on the tour and operator.
   • Pros: Direct access to local expertise. potential for customized private tours. supports local businesses.
   • Cons: Requires thorough vetting by the traveler to ensure compliance. not always easy to find online.

4. Responsible Tourism Platforms e.g., small, independent ethical travel blogs or guides

   • Key Features: Often highlight eco-tourism, cultural immersion, and community-based travel. While not explicitly halal, many principles align with Islamic values e.g., respect for locals, environmental preservation.
   • Average Price: Free to browse, costs depend on booked activities.
   • Pros: Focus on positive impact. promotes meaningful travel experiences.
   • Cons: Requires additional effort to verify halal compliance for specific activities. not a booking platform.

5. DIY Travel Planning with Halal Principles using search engines with specific keywords

   • Key Features: Involves extensive personal research to find halal restaurants, prayer spaces, and modest activities. Utilizing tools like Google Maps for mosques, and reviews for halal food.
   • Average Price: Most cost-effective as it’s self-planned.
   • Pros: Maximum control over itinerary. deep understanding of local options.
   • Cons: Time-consuming. requires significant effort and due diligence.

6. Ethical Travel Guidebooks physical or digital, e.g., Lonely Planet’s “Sustainable Travel” series or specific halal guides

   • Key Features: Provides information on destinations, culture, and sometimes includes tips for responsible travel. Some might offer specific insights for Muslim travelers if available.
   • Average Price: $15-$30 per guidebook.
   • Pros: Comprehensive overview of destinations. curated information.
   • Cons: Information might be outdated. not focused solely on halal compliance.

7. Online Forums and Communities for Muslim Travelers e.g., Ummah Forum, dedicated Facebook groups

   • Key Features: Direct peer-to-peer advice, recommendations, and real-world experiences from other Muslim travelers regarding destinations and activities.
   • Average Price: Free to access.
   • Pros: Authentic advice. insights into practical challenges and solutions. community support.
   • Cons: Information can be subjective and require verification. not a booking platform.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Review & First Look

Thisisgrancanaria.com presents itself as a comprehensive portal for booking holiday activities and excursions in Gran Canaria.

A first glance reveals a clean, image-rich homepage designed to showcase the island’s attractions.

The site immediately highlights “Popular Activities” with prices and user ratings, attempting to build trust and encourage immediate booking.

Contact information, including phone numbers and social media links Facebook, Instagram, are prominently displayed, suggesting accessibility.

The presence of a blog section and FAQs aims to provide additional information and address common queries, indicating an attempt at user engagement.

However, despite these features, a deeper dive into the site’s offerings and its underlying principles reveals areas of concern, particularly from an ethical and Islamic perspective.

The focus is heavily on leisure activities, some of which—like “nightlife” and “shows”—are inherently problematic for a Muslim seeking a permissible holiday experience.

The site lacks any explicit mention of halal-friendly options, nor does it provide filters or assurances that activities are conducted in an environment free from impermissible elements such as podcast, alcohol, or immodest interactions.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage

The homepage of Thisisgrancanaria.com is designed to be visually appealing, featuring vibrant images of various activities in Gran Canaria.

It immediately presents popular excursions like “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour,” “Dolphin Trip,” and “Jeep Safari,” complete with discounted prices and star ratings. Micro1.ai Review

This design strategy aims to capture visitor interest quickly and drive conversions.

The top section includes direct contact numbers and social media icons, which is a positive sign for quick communication.

However, the lack of immediate information regarding booking terms, cancellation policies, or a clear “About Us” section on the main page means a user has to dig deeper to find crucial details.

For a user seeking specific types of experiences, such as those aligning with ethical or religious guidelines, the site offers no immediate indicators that these considerations are even addressed.

Usability and Navigation

The website’s navigation is straightforward, with clear categories like “Boat Trips,” “Excursions and Tours,” and “Water Sports” visible in the main menu. This categorical organization makes it relatively easy for users to find activities of interest. The presence of a language selector for multiple European languages indicates an attempt to cater to a broad international audience. The FAQ section on the homepage is a useful addition, answering basic questions about visiting Gran Canaria. However, while navigation is simple, the content accessible through these navigation points doesn’t offer the granularity needed for ethical travel planning. For instance, there’s no way to filter activities by “family-friendly,” “modest,” or “alcohol-free,” which are critical considerations for Muslim travelers. This omission suggests a broad, secular approach to tourism that might not align with the values of all potential visitors.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Features

Thisisgrancanaria.com offers a range of features aimed at facilitating the booking of various holiday activities in Gran Canaria.

From what’s visible on the homepage, the primary features revolve around presenting a diverse catalog of excursions and providing mechanisms for what appears to be direct booking.

Activity Catalog and Display

The site prominently displays a list of “Popular Activities” with clear titles, original and discounted prices, and star ratings e.g., “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour,” “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria”. This structured display helps users quickly compare options. Each activity listing includes a direct link to its dedicated page, implying more detailed information is available there. The categorizations like “Boat Trips,” “Excursions and Tours,” and “Water Sports” further organize the offerings, making it easier for users to browse. However, the brief descriptions on the homepage don’t provide sufficient detail about the nature of the activity, which is crucial for ethical assessment. For example, a “Supercat Boat Trip” might sound appealing, but without knowing if it involves loud podcast, alcohol, or immodest dress among participants, a Muslim traveler cannot make an informed decision.

Pricing and Discounts

The website highlights “RRP” Recommended Retail Price and discounted prices for many activities, a common marketing tactic to incentivize bookings. For example, “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour” is listed as “RRP €130 €119,” and “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria” at “RRP €42 €38.” This upfront display of potential savings can be attractive to budget-conscious travelers. The pricing is presented in Euros, which is appropriate for a European destination. However, the transparency around what exactly is included in these prices e.g., transportation, meals, specific equipment is not immediately clear from the homepage, requiring deeper navigation into individual activity pages. More importantly, there’s no mention of any specific ethical or halal pricing structures or guarantees. Whitestuff.com Review

Customer Testimonials and Reviews

The homepage includes a section featuring a customer testimonial, stating, “Fantastic experience for everyone.

It was amazing to see dolphins, turtles and whales in their natural environment.

Staff was brilliant too.” This serves to build social proof and trust with potential customers.

Additionally, individual activity listings display star ratings, with many showing high scores like “4.9 out of 5 stars” or “5.0 out of 5 stars.” While these reviews and ratings suggest customer satisfaction, it’s important to note that they are internal to the website and don’t link to independent review platforms e.g., Trustpilot, TripAdvisor, which would offer a more unbiased perspective.

Furthermore, these reviews do not speak to the ethical or religious compliance of the activities, which is a primary concern for this review.

Language Options and Location Focus

Thisisgrancanaria.com offers multiple language options, including English, Spanish, German, French, Polish, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Italian.

This broad linguistic support indicates an ambition to serve a wide European and international tourist base.

The website is explicitly focused on Gran Canaria, providing detailed links to specific locations within the island like “Playa del Inglés,” “Maspalomas,” “Meloneras,” and “Puerto Rico.” This localized focus allows the site to provide specific information relevant to the destination.

However, despite the comprehensive location and language support, the core issue remains: the content is universally tourist-oriented without any filters or considerations for faith-based travel needs, which is a significant drawback for Muslim users.

Contact and Support Information

The website provides clear contact information on its homepage and in the footer, including two UK phone numbers +44 800 920 2208, +44 7983 825883 and an email address . A physical address in London, UK, is also listed, which lends some credibility. Vivid.money Review

The presence of social media links Facebook, Instagram suggests multiple channels for customer interaction and support.

While these contact options are positive for general customer service, there is no indication of specialized support or understanding for inquiries related to ethical or halal travel, meaning a Muslim traveler would likely need to make extensive independent inquiries for each activity.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Cons

Based on a thorough examination of Thisisgrancanaria.com, several significant drawbacks emerge, particularly when viewed through the lens of ethical and Islamic travel principles.

The website, while seemingly functional for mainstream tourism, falls short in critical areas that would make it unsuitable for a discerning Muslim traveler.

Lack of Ethical and Halal Compliance

The most prominent drawback of Thisisgrancanaria.com is its complete absence of any ethical or halal compliance considerations.

The website promotes a wide range of activities without filtering or explicitly stating if they align with Islamic guidelines.

Activities mentioned, such as “shows,” “nightlife,” and general “beach clubs,” often involve elements forbidden in Islam, including:

• Podcast: Many tourist activities, especially boat trips and evening entertainment, feature live or recorded podcast.
• Alcohol: Nightlife venues, some boat trips, and even general dining experiences commonly involve alcohol consumption.
• Immodest Dress and Interactions: Public beaches, certain tours, and party-oriented activities can expose individuals to environments where modesty is not observed, leading to impermissible free-mixing.
• Gambling/Entertainment: While not explicitly gambling, the atmosphere of certain “entertainment” or “shows” could lead to frivolous spending or expose individuals to practices that are not wholesome.

The website does not provide any mechanism for a user to filter for or identify activities that are alcohol-free, podcast-free, or conducted in environments that uphold modesty.

This omission means a Muslim traveler cannot trust the platform to guide them toward permissible experiences, making it an unreliable resource. Printclever.com Review

Absence of Detailed Activity Information for Ethical Vetting

While the website lists activities with brief descriptions, it lacks the in-depth information required to assess their ethical suitability.

For instance, knowing if a “Dolphin Trip” includes loud podcast or if a “Private Yacht” rental comes with a crew that respects privacy and provides halal food options is critical.

The descriptions are generic and focus on the recreational aspect rather than the practicalities and environment of the activity.

This forces the user to undertake significant independent research for each potential booking, which defeats the purpose of using a centralized booking platform.

Without clear information on things like prayer facilities availability, halal food options, or separation of genders where relevant, the utility of the site for Muslim travelers is severely limited.

Limited Transparency on Policies and Terms

Beyond a general “Cookie Declaration” and copyright notice, the website does not immediately provide prominent links to detailed terms and conditions, privacy policies, or clear cancellation and refund policies.

While these might exist somewhere on the site, their lack of immediate visibility on the homepage or in readily accessible navigation points raises questions about transparency.

For online bookings, users need to be fully aware of their rights and obligations, especially regarding changes, cancellations, or disputes.

A reputable booking platform typically makes this information easily accessible.

The absence of comprehensive and easily findable legal disclaimers or user agreements can be a red flag for consumer protection. Lootbar.gg Review

Internal Review System Only

The customer reviews and star ratings displayed on Thisisgrancanaria.com appear to be internal to the website.

While high ratings like “4.9 out of 5 stars” are visually appealing, the lack of integration with external, independent review platforms e.g., TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, Trustpilot means that the authenticity and unbiased nature of these reviews cannot be independently verified.

Relying solely on internal reviews can create a perception of selection bias, where only the most positive feedback is showcased, potentially masking any negative experiences or ethical concerns that might not be highlighted in a simple star rating.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Alternatives

Given the significant ethical and practical concerns raised by Thisisgrancanaria.com for Muslim travelers, exploring alternatives that prioritize halal compliance, transparency, and a wholesome travel experience is paramount.

The focus should shift from general tourist booking platforms to those that either specialize in ethical travel or allow for stringent self-vetting.

Alternatives for Halal Travel Planning

1. HalalBooking.com: This is arguably the leading platform for truly halal-friendly travel. It offers extensive filters for no-alcohol properties, women-only facilities, private pools, and ensures halal food options. While it primarily focuses on accommodation, it also provides insights into destinations that are conducive to an Islamic lifestyle. This platform is built from the ground up with the Muslim traveler in mind, making it a highly reliable choice.

2. Trip.com with specific halal search terms: While not exclusively a halal platform, larger travel aggregators like Trip.com allow users to search for hotels and activities. By strategically using search terms like “halal food Gran Canaria,” “mosque Gran Canaria,” or “alcohol-free resorts Gran Canaria,” users can sometimes find relevant options. However, this requires significant manual vetting and cross-referencing with other sources to ensure true compliance. It’s a general tool that can be adapted for halal needs, but not a dedicated solution.

3. Booking.com with careful filtering and review checks: Similar to Trip.com, Booking.com offers a vast database of accommodations. Travelers can use filters like “kitchenette” to self-cater halal food, and meticulously read reviews for mentions of prayer facilities or the general atmosphere. The challenge remains the need for independent verification and the absence of explicit halal filters for activities.

Alternatives for Ethical and Responsible Tourism

1. Intrepid Travel: While not exclusively halal, Intrepid Travel focuses heavily on responsible and sustainable tourism. Their tours often emphasize local immersion, cultural respect, and minimal environmental impact. Many of their small-group tours can be adapted to personal needs, and they generally avoid activities that are overtly problematic e.g., excessive partying. A Muslim traveler would still need to inquire about specific itinerary details to ensure full compliance. Somnox.com Review

2. G Adventures: Another leader in ethical adventure travel, G Adventures offers a wide range of small-group tours. Their emphasis on community engagement, local experiences, and responsible travel practices aligns well with Islamic values of respect and stewardship. Similar to Intrepid Travel, direct communication and vetting of specific itinerary elements would be necessary for a Muslim traveler to ensure full adherence to their principles.

3. Local Tourist Information Centers Official Gran Canaria Tourism: The official tourism websites for destinations like Gran Canaria often provide extensive information on attractions, cultural sites, and nature parks. These platforms typically do not promote nightlife or morally questionable activities as their primary focus. A Muslim traveler can use these official resources to identify permissible sites and then seek independent, ethical tour operators for transportation or guided access.

4. Independent Travel Blogs and Forums Focused on Muslim Travel: Websites and online communities dedicated to Muslim travel often feature first-hand experiences, recommendations, and advice on navigating various destinations ethically. Blogs like “Muslim Travel Girl” or forums on platforms like Ummah.com can be invaluable resources for discovering halal-friendly activities and operators that are not found on mainstream booking sites. This approach relies on peer reviews and community knowledge, which can be highly effective for niche travel needs.

   

Each of these alternatives offers a more robust framework for ethical and halal-conscious travel planning compared to Thisisgrancanaria.com.

The key takeaway is to prioritize platforms that either specialize in halal travel or are committed to responsible tourism, allowing for thorough vetting of activities and environments.

How to Avoid Unethical Travel Platforms

Many websites, like Thisisgrancanaria.com, cater to a general tourist demographic without considering specific faith-based needs.

To avoid platforms that promote or facilitate impermissible activities, a proactive and diligent approach is essential.

It’s about being smart with your search, vetting sources, and understanding the red flags. Hotelvalue.com Review

Red Flags to Watch For

When evaluating a travel platform, several indicators can signal that it might not be suitable for ethical or halal travel:

• Prominent Display of Nightlife, Bars, or Clubs: If the homepage or main activity categories heavily feature “nightlife,” “bars,” “pubs,” or specific “club tours,” it’s a strong indication that the platform caters to an audience whose recreational choices may not align with Islamic values.
• Lack of Filtering Options for Ethical Preferences: A major red flag is the absence of filters for “alcohol-free,” “halal food,” “women-only facilities,” or “prayer facilities.” Ethical platforms often provide these options to cater to diverse needs.
• Generic Activity Descriptions Without Environmental Context: If descriptions of activities like “boat trips” or “excursions” are vague and don’t specify the atmosphere e.g., whether podcast, alcohol, or immodest attire are prevalent among participants, it suggests a broader, un-vetted environment.
• Emphasis on “Party” or “Entertainment” without Qualification: Terms like “ultimate party experience” or “lively entertainment shows” without further detail about the content or atmosphere should be treated with extreme caution, as they often imply impermissible elements.
• Absence of Ethical Statements or Responsible Tourism Commitments: Reputable ethical travel platforms often have clear sections on their commitment to responsible tourism, cultural sensitivity, environmental protection, or supporting local communities ethically. Their absence can indicate a purely commercial, unregulated approach.
• Only Internal Reviews with No External Verification: If customer reviews are only internal to the website and there are no links to independent review sites e.g., Trustpilot, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, it raises questions about the authenticity and completeness of the feedback.

Strategies for Vetting Travel Websites

To ensure a travel website aligns with your ethical standards, employ the following strategies:

1. Read the “About Us” and “Responsible Travel” Sections: Look for clear statements about the company’s values, mission, and commitment to ethical practices, sustainability, or cultural sensitivity. A platform that genuinely cares about these aspects will highlight them.
2. Scrutinize Activity Details: Don’t just read the headlines. Click into individual activity descriptions and look for specific details. Are there mentions of meals? If so, is halal food guaranteed? Are there any indications about the environment e.g., “quiet boat trip” vs. “party boat”?
3. Check for “Halal” or “Muslim-Friendly” Keywords: Use the website’s search function or internal filters for terms like “halal,” “modest,” “alcohol-free,” or “family-friendly.” If these terms yield no results or irrelevant ones, the platform likely doesn’t cater to these needs.
4. Examine Photo Galleries and Videos Closely: Visual content can provide clues. Are people dressed modestly? Are there scenes that clearly depict alcohol consumption or loud podcast? Are the environments suitable for families seeking a wholesome experience?
5. Look for External Certifications or Partnerships: Some ethical travel operators might be certified by organizations promoting sustainable tourism, or be members of associations that uphold certain standards. While not directly halal, these can be indicators of a more conscientious approach.
6. Cross-Reference with Independent Reviews: Always check external review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, or even specific Muslim travel forums. Look for feedback that mentions the ethical aspects of the tours or accommodations.
7. Contact Customer Service with Specific Questions: If in doubt, reach out to the platform’s customer service with direct questions about halal options, alcohol policies, or modesty guidelines for specific activities. Their responsiveness and the clarity of their answers can be telling.

By employing these vigilant strategies, Muslim travelers can significantly reduce the risk of booking experiences through platforms that do not align with their faith and values, ensuring a more fulfilling and permissible journey.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Pricing

Thisisgrancanaria.com clearly displays pricing for its activities directly on the homepage, presenting both an original “RRP” Recommended Retail Price and a discounted price.

This approach is standard in the online booking industry, designed to attract customers with perceived savings.

However, when evaluating the pricing structure, it’s crucial to consider not just the monetary cost but also the value proposition in an ethical context, especially since the platform lacks transparency on halal compliance.

Pricing Structure and Display

The website shows prices in Euros € and uses a common “strike-through” pricing method to highlight discounts.

For example, the “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour” is listed as RRP €130, now €119. This is a common psychological tactic to encourage immediate booking.

The pricing is presented per activity, implying a one-time payment for the chosen excursion. Computerkeys.xyz Review

There’s no mention of subscription models or recurring fees for using the platform itself.

It operates on a transactional basis for each booking.

What’s Included and What’s Not Explicitly Stated

While the prices are shown, the homepage doesn’t provide a comprehensive breakdown of what’s included in that price. For instance, is transportation to and from the activity included? Are meals or refreshments provided, and if so, are they halal-certified? Is equipment rental covered? These details are critical for a traveler to budget accurately and, more importantly, to ensure ethical compliance. Without this clarity upfront, a user has to click into each individual activity page, and even then, detailed halal information is unlikely to be present. This lack of explicit inclusion details adds an element of uncertainty.

Value Proposition for the Ethical Traveler

From an ethical and Islamic perspective, the “value” of the pricing becomes questionable.

Even if an activity is financially affordable, its true cost can be high if it compromises one’s faith or values.

Since Thisisgrancanaria.com does not offer any assurances regarding the halal nature of the activities or the environments they take place in, the perceived monetary savings become irrelevant if the experience itself is impermissible.

For example, a discounted “Supercat Boat Trip” might seem like a good deal, but if it entails loud podcast, alcohol consumption, and immodest dress among other passengers, the “value” for a Muslim traveler diminishes to zero, regardless of the price point.

The website’s pricing focuses solely on the recreational monetary cost, without any consideration for the ethical “cost” of participation.

Gran Canaria as a Destination for Ethical Tourism

While the island itself offers natural beauty and cultural aspects that can be explored ethically, the dominant tourism infrastructure often caters to a mainstream audience, which might present challenges for Muslim travelers seeking strictly permissible experiences. I-to-i.com Review

It’s crucial to differentiate between the potential of the destination and the offerings of platforms like Thisisgrancanaria.com.

Natural Beauty and Permissible Activities

Gran Canaria boasts stunning natural attractions that are inherently permissible to explore. These include:

• Roque Nublo: A dramatic volcanic rock formation, ideal for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.
• Pico de las Nieves: The highest point on the island, offering breathtaking vistas.
• Local Villages and Markets: Exploring the traditional towns and local markets e.g., in Teror or Agaete can offer a glimpse into Canarian culture, provided one focuses on permissible goods and interactions.
• Beaches with caution: While some beaches are known for their lively atmosphere, quieter stretches or specific times of day can allow for enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline in a more modest manner, especially for families.

These activities, focused on nature, culture, and history, are generally permissible and can be enjoyed without compromising Islamic principles, provided the traveler exercises diligence in their overall conduct and choices.

Challenges in the Mainstream Tourism Environment

The challenge for Muslim travelers in Gran Canaria often arises from the mainstream tourism infrastructure, which is heavily influenced by Western leisure concepts.

• Nightlife and Entertainment: Gran Canaria is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, including bars, clubs, and shows, which are explicitly promoted by platforms like Thisisgrancanaria.com. These environments typically involve alcohol, loud podcast, and immodest interactions, making them impermissible.
• Resort Culture: Many resorts cater to a broad audience, and while some may have family-friendly sections, they rarely offer dedicated halal facilities, such as women-only pools, prayer rooms, or guaranteed halal food.
• Food Options: While local cuisine may include seafood, finding officially certified halal meat can be challenging outside of specific Muslim-owned establishments, which may require significant research.
• Public Beaches: While beautiful, public beaches often feature immodest attire and mixed-gender environments, which can be uncomfortable or impermissible for some Muslim travelers.

Recommendations for Ethical Travel in Gran Canaria

For a Muslim traveler considering Gran Canaria, a self-planned approach with strict adherence to Islamic guidelines is recommended, rather than relying on general booking platforms.

1. Focus on Nature and Culture: Prioritize excursions to natural landmarks, historical sites, and quiet towns.
2. Self-Cater or Research Halal Food: Consider booking accommodations with kitchenettes to prepare your own halal meals, or diligently research and patronize authenticated halal restaurants.
3. Choose Accommodations Carefully: Look for private villas or apartments, or consider hotels with a more family-oriented or subdued atmosphere, and always confirm policies on alcohol and modesty.
4. Engage Local Guides Vetted: If seeking guided tours, opt for independent local guides whom you can communicate with directly to ensure the tour respects your ethical boundaries.
5. Avoid Public Entertainment: Steer clear of advertised shows, beach clubs, and nightlife, which are almost universally problematic.
6. Seek Out Prayer Facilities: Research local mosques or designated prayer areas in advance.

By adopting these strategies, a Muslim traveler can enjoy the natural beauty and permissible cultural aspects of Gran Canaria while navigating around the widespread mainstream tourism offerings that conflict with their values.

FAQ

What is Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Thisisgrancanaria.com is an online platform that offers booking services for various holiday activities, excursions, and tours in Gran Canaria, aiming to provide a comprehensive guide for tourists visiting the island.

Is Thisisgrancanaria.com suitable for Muslim travelers?

No, Thisisgrancanaria.com is generally not suitable for Muslim travelers as it does not provide any specific filters or assurances for halal-compliant activities, and it promotes general tourist activities including nightlife and shows that may involve impermissible elements like podcast, alcohol, and immodest interactions.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer halal food options?

Based on the website’s homepage, there is no explicit mention or filtering option for halal food options, nor are there any guarantees that meals included in tours would be halal. Ceptrum.net Review

Travelers would need to verify this independently for each activity.

Are there any ethical concerns with activities promoted by Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Yes, ethical concerns arise because the website promotes activities like “shows” and “nightlife” which commonly involve podcast, alcohol, and immodest environments, directly conflicting with Islamic principles.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com provide independent customer reviews?

No, the website displays customer reviews and star ratings that appear to be internal to the site, with no direct links or integration with independent, third-party review platforms like Trustpilot or TripAdvisor.

How transparent is Thisisgrancanaria.com about its policies?

The website’s homepage does not prominently display detailed terms and conditions, privacy policies, or clear cancellation and refund policies beyond a basic cookie declaration.

Users would need to navigate deeply to find this information.

What are the main types of activities offered on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

The main types of activities offered include boat trips dolphin trips, catamarans, private yachts, excursions and tours jeep safaris, camel safaris, and water sports jet ski, parasailing, fly-boarding.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer discounts on activities?

Yes, the website frequently displays discounted prices by showing an original “RRP” Recommended Retail Price crossed out, alongside a lower current price for many of its listed activities.

Can I book family-friendly activities on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

While the website mentions Gran Canaria being family-friendly, it does not provide specific filters or categories for “family-friendly” activities that explicitly ensure an environment free from impermissible elements for Muslim families.

What languages does Thisisgrancanaria.com support?

Thisisgrancanaria.com supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, Polish, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Italian.

How can I contact Thisisgrancanaria.com?

You can contact Thisisgrancanaria.com via two UK phone numbers +44 800 920 2208, +44 7983 825883, an email address , and through their Facebook and Instagram pages. Lesswastecoffee.com Review

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com have a physical office?

Yes, a physical address in London, United Kingdom 20-22 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7GU is listed in the footer of the website.

Is Thisisgrancanaria.com a trusted platform for booking?

While it presents contact details and displays activities, its lack of transparent policies, reliance on internal reviews, and absence of ethical filters mean it falls short of being a fully trusted platform, particularly for ethically conscious travelers.

What are some halal alternatives to Thisisgrancanaria.com for travel planning?

Better alternatives for halal travel planning include dedicated platforms like HalalBooking.com, researching ethical local tour operators, and utilizing online forums and communities for Muslim travelers for peer recommendations.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer custom tour packages?

The website primarily lists pre-defined activities and tours.

There is no clear indication on the homepage that it offers custom or bespoke tour package creation.

How can I ensure an activity booked through a general platform is ethical?

To ensure an activity is ethical, you need to thoroughly scrutinize activity details, read reviews for mentions of atmosphere, directly contact the service provider with specific questions about alcohol, podcast, and modesty, and prioritize bookings through platforms that align with ethical travel principles.

Are there any hidden fees with Thisisgrancanaria.com bookings?

The website displays upfront prices, but it is not immediately clear if all taxes, booking fees, or additional charges e.g., for equipment or transportation are included in the listed price without delving into each activity’s specific page or terms.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com provide information on local prayer facilities?

No, the website does not provide any information or guidance on locating local mosques or prayer facilities in Gran Canaria, which is a crucial aspect for Muslim travelers.

Is Gran Canaria itself a good destination for Muslim travelers?

Gran Canaria offers natural beauty and cultural sites that can be explored ethically, but its mainstream tourism infrastructure, including nightlife and resort culture, often presents challenges for Muslim travelers seeking strictly permissible experiences.

Careful planning and independent vetting are essential. Gsdcouncil.org Review

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com have a cancellation policy?

While a cancellation policy is likely in place, it is not prominently displayed or easily accessible from the homepage, requiring users to actively search for this crucial information within the website’s deeper pages.