with the addition of Spain and the Canary Islands to the European Union and with its status as islands, the archipelago has its own economic regime stipulated in the law of economic and fiscal regime. This economic resurgence in the 19th century, plus the continuous traffic of English ships in and out, are key to the development of the tourist industry, the current mainstay of the island’s economy. Gran Canaria begins to become popular among Europeans as a place of rest for tourists and the infirm, and shipping companies refurbish their ships to cater for travellers. These very British shipping companies drive forward the creation of hotels on the island, including the Hotel Santa Catalina (1890), in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which is still today, the most emblematic hotel in the capital. In the surrounding areas an urban architectural framework is also created that remains a timely reminder of the capital’s historic past. Ensuing European wars then hold back the development of tourism, which would have to wait until 1957 to see the first incoming flight of a packed Swedish company Transair AB 54 seater, this the first of a series of charter flights to Gran Canaria that gets organized tourism off to a start. Up to now the tourist activity has not looked back and today Gran Canaria is not only a continent in miniature for its climate and terrain, but because it offers those who come to visit endless possibilities to relax or to enjoy their pastimes. INTERACTIVE TOURIST GUIDE
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