Tenerife, the largest of the Spanish held Canary Islands, lies off the west coast of North Africa. Stepping off the plane at Norte Los Rodeos airport one immediately senses the relaxed serenity that pervades the island as a whole. Perhaps more so than in any other Spanish province, the Canaries exemplify an old world charm which is all too rare in this age of rapid development. This is especially true of Tenerife, where the cities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Puerto De La Cruz literally take you back in time.
For the gaming aficionado I can think of no more pleasant a place to spend a holiday than Tenerife. There are three major casinos on the island, managed by the Cabildo de Tenerife, the local regulatory body. These are located in the principal population centers of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto De La Cruz, and Playa De Las Americas.
Entry into the casinos requires identification and passports for foreign nationals. An entry fee of 500 pesetas (about $3.00) is also required for each visit. As privacy is of major concern, patrons of the casinos cannot be reached once inside the doors and no information of any nature is disseminated to any person or organization. Attire is casual; recently relaxed to a point that jeans and open necked shirts are allowed. T-shirts and sandals, however, will leave you standing on the steps!
Generally the following games are offered in all the casinos: American and French Roulette, Blackjack (six decks in the shoe), Poker, Tri-Joker, Video Poker, and Slots.
Unless you are a diehard "Las Vegas" or "Atlantic City" gambler, used to huge crowds, flashing lights, and disinterested service, you will definitely appreciate the ambience and professional atmosphere of the Casinos of Tenerife.
CASINO SANTA CRUZ
105 Rambla General Franco, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife
This small European style casino is located on the lower floor of the elegant Hotel Mencey. There is little parking at the hotel but the casino may be reached by an inexpensive taxi ride from anywhere in town. Hours are from 6PM to 3AM weekdays and 9PM to 5AM weekends.
CASINO PLAYA DE LAS AMERICAS
9 Avenida Del Mar, 38570 ADEJE, Tenerife
The Casino is located in the Gran Tenerife Hotel at Playa De Las Americas, a new and growing resort area at the southernmost part of the island known as the "Las Vegas" of Tenerife; a name which implies not so much the gaming aspect of the town, but the continued sprawling growth of high rise condominiums which seem to spring up daily.
If your thing is pseudo Miami Beach, construction cranes, and scantily clad ladies of every possible nationality then Playa De Las Americas is for you. Hours are from 3PM to 2AM on weekdays and from 8PM to 4AM on weekends
CASINO DE TAORO
22 Parque Taoro, 38400 Puerto De La Cruz, Tenerife
Located on the top floor of the soon to be re-opened, grand and graceful Taoro Hotel, the casino is surrounded by lush gardens. It is situated on the grounds of a lovely park high above Puerto De La Cruz and offers a breathtaking view of the city below.
In addition to gaming the establishment has a first class restaurant and bar, together with a "Vegas style" lounge which features dancing and popular music. Interestingly, the casino has developed into what might best be termed a "club" for the elite of Puerto De La Cruz; a social gathering place where business and gaming meld together. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the service superb. Hours on weekdays are 8PM to 3AM, and 4PM to 4AM on weekends.
