All of the seven Canary Islands have their own airports - Tenerife has two; Reina Sofia in the south and Los Rodeos in the north. Most island connections are served by BinterCanarias (www.bintercanarias.com) and Islas Airways (www.islasairways.com).

An alternative means of travelling from island to island is by ferry. Three companies operate the various routes: Trasmediterranea (www.trasmediterranea.es), Lineas Fred Olsen (www.fredolsen.es) and Naviera Armas (www.naviera-armas.com). In Tenerife the ferry terminals are in Santa Cruz and Los Cristianos.

There is no rail network in Tenerife, although a tram service operates between the northern cities of Santa Cruz and La Laguna (www.tranviatenerife.com).

Vehicles drive on the right. In general the state of the roads is of a high standard with smooth surfaces and clear markings. However, several roads through inland villages and mountain passes are extremely narrow and extra caution must be employed. On roundabouts, drivers give way to the left.

Bus: The public-run bus service TITSA (www.titsa.com) operates an efficient and extensive network of routes throughout the island. Even the more remote villages usually have a bus link. Tickets can be bought at any of the main terminals. Discount tickets are available for longer journeys.

Car hire: Several major car hire companies are represented at the two airports and in the main urban centres. Drivers must be over 21 to hire a car.

Motorcycles: Riders of motorcycles over 75cc must be at least 18. Crash helmets are compulsory.

Regulations: Two red hazard triangles and a reflective vest or jacket must be kept in all vehicles - the latter in the car, not in the boot. Parking laws are rigorously enforced and towing is prevalent. The speed limit for motorways is 120kph (80mph). In built-up areas it's 50kph (30mph) and on other roads it's 90kph (56mph). Safety belts are compulsory front and rear. Drink driving is a serious offence in Tenerife. The legal limit is just 0.25%, equivalent to less than one pint of beer or two glasses of wine.

Emergency breakdown service: Real Automóvil Club de España (RACE) (tel: 902 404 545; www.race.es).

Documentation: Most foreign licences including Canadian, EU and US are accepted. Minimum third party insurance is compulsory. An original driving licence must be carried in the car at all times.

Most of the coastal resorts have central pedestrianised areas. Metered taxis are readily available and taxi ranks abound. The public bus service is a cheap and reliable way of getting around. A modern tram service operates between Santa Cruz and La Laguna.

The following chart gives approximate driving times in hours and minutes from Playa de las Americas to other parts of the island.

Santa Cruz                  0.50
Reina Sofia airport      0.15
Los Gigantes              0.35
Mount Teide               1.0