Special transports to the Canary Islands: How pianos, Harleys, and Co. arrive safely in the south

July 2, 2026

Shipping standard household goods in moving boxes to the Canary Islands is an everyday job. Things get complicated when special items or vehicles are to be transported across the Atlantic. A fine grand piano or a heavy Harley-Davidson cannot withstand the rough sea voyage without special precautions, nor does the Canarian customs authority forgive bureaucratic errors. For tax purposes, the islands do not belong to the standard EU customs territory. Therefore, logistical and legal hurdles lurk here that must be known in advance. Transporting pianos and grand pianos: Climate shock and species protection A piano consists almost entirely of natural materials that are extremely sensitive to fluctuations in humidity. When transporting it to the archipelago, two completely different problems must be solved: the physical climate and international law. Protection from the Atlantic air During the weeks-long journey in a sea container, the instrument is exposed to massive temperature fluctuations and extremely high humidity. Once on the islands, the weather changes depending on the place of residence: from salty, humid coastal air to extreme dryness during Calima weather conditions in the hinterland. The instrument should be specially packed so that no problems arise inside the container. After being set up in its new home, the piano should remain untouched for at least two months. The wood works and adapts to the new environment. Anyone who orders the piano tuner too early is wasting money – the instrument will immediately go out of tune again. The ivory certificate Especially with older, high-quality pianos or grand pianos (often built before 1975), the coverings of the white keys are made of real ivory. This is where the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) applies. Since the Canary Islands are considered a third country for customs purposes, the freight is strictly controlled upon import at the ports of Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Anyone who imports a piano with ivory keys without the correct documents risks the immediate confiscation of the entire instrument on suspicion of illegal ivory trading. The solution: Simply leave the paperwork to the experts. We at Phoenix Trans Internacional are very familiar with the strict CITES guidelines and customs regulations. We know exactly which certificates and proofs are required and ensure that your valuable instrument arrives absolutely legally and safely on the islands. Motorcycle transport: Securing at sea and Spanish registration A Harley-Davidson or a comparable custom bike does not travel on its side stand. Strict safety regulations for dangerous goods (IMDG Code) apply to the sea route. Loading into the container It can get rough on the Atlantic. The motorcycle should be well packed and secured for the crossing. The machine is secured with straps in such a way that it cannot bounce independently and break loose in heavy seas. Safety requirement: For fire safety reasons, the tank must be emptied to a minimum, the battery disconnected, and the terminals insulated. Customs and the infamous ITV inspection Importing a vehicle to the Canary Islands inevitably entails bureaucratic processes. Anyone living permanently on the islands must re-register the motorcycle. Every vehicle must be declared to Canarian customs via the Documento Único Administrativo (DUA). Those who wish to officially relocate their primary residence to the Canary Islands may, under certain circumstances, import the motorcycle tax-free as moving goods (Franquicia por traslado de residencia). Various conditions must be met for this. After customs clearance, there is a maximum period of 30 days to register for Spanish license plates. A full inspection by the Spanish MOT (ITV) is absolutely necessary for this. Important for Harley riders: Spanish inspectors are extremely strict regarding modifications. Non-original exhaust systems, different handlebars, or custom parts may have to be entered into the Spanish vehicle documents with great bureaucratic effort. Whether it’s a sensitive instrument or a heavy custom bike: For demanding special transports to the Canary Islands, Phoenix Trans Internacional is your customized solution. With decades of experience with island customs, the appropriate special equipment, and the know-how for sensitive freight, we ensure that your most valuable possessions arrive completely stress-free and safely in their new home in the south.

Special transports to the Canary Islands: How pianos, Harleys, and Co. arrive safely in the south Read Post »

San Juan in the Canary Islands: Fireworks, Traditions, and the Leap into the Sea

June 17, 2026

When the sky over the Atlantic explodes in every imaginable color and thousands of people rush toward the surf all at once, summer has officially arrived in the Canary Islands. The Noche de San Juan—the night from June 23rd to 24th—is far more than just a fixed date on the archipelago’s calendar. It is a deeply rooted festival that perfectly bridges the gap between centuries-old rituals and a modern festival atmosphere. Anyone spending this night on the islands today will experience a fascinating spectacle: while the sky is illuminated by state-of-the-art pyrotechnics, you can still feel the magic of ancient customs in the sand. Of Sun Worshipers and Indigenous Peoples: Evolving Roots Even though the festival now bears the name of Saint John the Baptist, its origins predate Christianity and are, at their core, purely pagan. The Summer Solstice: Ancient cultures worldwide celebrated the longest day of the year. Fires were lit to strengthen the sun and ward off evil spirits. The Legacy of the Guanches: The indigenous people of the Canary Islands were sun worshipers. For them, the solstice was a festival of great significance. They climbed the highest peaks and lit signal fires to pray for rain and fertility. When the Spanish conquerors brought the Catholic feast day of Saint John to the archipelago, the old rites merged with the new faith. Today, in the 21st century, this festival has adapted once again: the wild fires of yesteryear have transformed into spectacular light shows in many places. San Juan Today: Between Rockets and Ritual Purification Anyone heading to the beach on June 23rd today will see a very different picture compared to twenty years ago. For safety and environmental reasons, private bonfires (hogueras) are strictly forbidden on many of the main beaches. However, this doesn’t dampen the mood—the traditions have simply shifted. The Modern Sea of Lights (Fireworks) Instead of thousands of small clouds of smoke, the horizon is now lit up by gigantic, organized high-altitude fireworks. Municipalities outdo each other year after year with their shows. People gather on the beach with picnic blankets, candles, and music, looking up at the colorful sky together and celebrating the beginning of summer like a massive open-air festival. The Leap into the Atlantic One custom, however, cannot be replaced by pyrotechnics: at the stroke of midnight, the hour of water arrives. No matter how chilly the Atlantic might be, the beaches empty out instantly as everyone runs into the sea at the same time. The ritual midnight bath is the very heart of San Juan. Water has always been seen as a source of life and purification. The Beach Custom: To wash away the bad luck of the past year, people walk backward into the sea and let three (or seven) waves wash over them while making a silent wish. The Hotspots: Where People Celebrate Today Gran Canaria: The island splits into two massive party zones on this night. In the north, Playa de Las Canteras in Las Palmas is the epicenter. Since San Juan is also the city’s birthday, there is an absolute mega-fireworks display here. Those who prefer warmer temperatures head south: thousands of people also flock to the beach in Maspalomas and at Playa del Inglés. Against the backdrop of the vast dunes, the municipalities organize major concerts and fireworks—the subsequent midnight bath in the south almost feels like the Caribbean thanks to the milder temperatures. Private fires are, of course, strictly taboo around the dunes due to nature conservation. Tenerife (Puerto de la Cruz): Here, the tradition is still kept alive in a very classic way. At Playa Jardín, there is often still a large, official bonfire organized by the municipality, combined with live music. On the morning of June 24th, the famous Baño de las Cabras (Goat Bath) follows, where shepherds wash their herds in the harbor basin—a genuine, centuries-old custom of the indigenous people. Inland: Those looking for authentic, traditional fires are more likely to find them in the mountains and inland villages today. There, neighbors often still light the classic wooden piles in the barrancos (ravines), away from the strict beach regulations. Three Small Rituals for Your Good Fortune If you want to experience the night like a local, you can take part in the small, private rituals that originated in the ancient herbal magic of the solstice: The Note in the Fire: Before midnight, write down everything you want to let go of in your life (worries, bad habits, anger) on a piece of paper. Throw the note into the flames precisely at midnight. The Flower Water: In some rural regions, a bowl of water with wild herbs and blossoms (such as St. John’s wort or rose petals) is placed outside overnight to capture the energy of the solstice. The next morning, people wash their faces with it for beauty, protection, and health. A Wish to the Stars: During your nightly swim in the sea, look up into the clear Canarian sky and make your most important wish for the rest of the year. A Festival That Unites Whether in the glow of an ancient torch or the light of a modern rocket: the beautiful thing about San Juan in the Canary Islands is the community. There are no barriers or exclusive zones. Locals and travelers sit side by side in the sand, sharing a look upward, and ultimately leaping into the very same waves together.

San Juan in the Canary Islands: Fireworks, Traditions, and the Leap into the Sea Read Post »

Which of the 8 Canary Islands suits which lifestyle?

June 2, 2026

The Canary Islands are often mentioned in the same breath, but anyone who knows the archipelago beyond tourism understands: each island has its own completely unique character, specific climatic conditions, and its own distinct dynamics. Moving here is not just a change of location. Choosing the right island determines significantly whether you will settle in long-term and truly arrive in your new everyday life. This overview helps you find the island that matches your lifestyle and habits perfectly. 1. The All-Rounders: Tenerife and Gran Canaria Suitable for: Families, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and cultural enthusiasts Teneriffa and Gran Canaria offer the most developed infrastructure. Anyone looking for familiar city life, international schools, seamless medical care, and a wide cultural offering is in the right place here. However, for both islands, one rule applies: North and South are two completely different worlds. Tenerife: The largest island impresses with extreme contrasts. While the green North (around Puerto de la Cruz and La Laguna) is very traditionally Canarian, shaped by culture, and often a bit cooler, the South (Adeje, Los Cristianos) offers a year-round guarantee of sun and a highly international community. Thanks to the Teide massif, hikers will also find an enormous territory here. Gran Canaria: Often referred to as a “miniature continent,” a similarly strong division is evident here. The North around the capital, Las Palmas, is the economic and cultural heart – an urban hotspot for digital nomads with big-city flair, colonial architecture, and the famous city beach Playa de Las Canteras. However, the weather here is often more changeable. The South (Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés), on the other hand, is the ultimate destination for sunseekers: absolute sun guarantee, the famous dunes, and a massive, multicultural resident community await you here, albeit in a strongly tourist-oriented environment. 2. The Decelerated: Fuerteventura and Lanzarote Suitable for: Water sports enthusiasts, individualists, peace seekers, and aesthetes The two eastern islands are located closest to the African coast. The landscape is rawer, flatter, and strongly shaped by the elements of wind and volcanism. Fuerteventura: A paradise for surfers, kiters, and beach lovers. The endless, bright sandy beaches in the north (Corralejo) and south (Jandía) offer plenty of space. Life here is noticeably slower, unhurried, and strongly focused on the ocean. Anyone looking for endless expanses and able to handle the steady trade winds will find deep peace here. Lanzarote: An architectural and visual masterpiece. Shaped by the legacy of artist César Manrique, the white villages harmonize perfectly with the dark lava fields. Lanzarote primarily attracts peace seekers, creatives, and individualists who appreciate a stylish, decelerated environment. 3. The Green Oases: La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro Suitable for: Nature lovers, hikers, and fans of authentic village life The western islands of the archipelago have remained largely untouched by mass tourism. Here, life is lived in harmony with a spectacular natural environment. La Palma: The “Isla Bonita” fascinates with steep slopes, dense pine and laurel forests, and one of the clearest night skies in the world. Nature is still in transition after the 2021 volcanic eruption but remains an absolute eldorado for hikers. La Gomera: Just a short ferry ride from Tenerife, La Gomera offers an almost mystical mountain world with the Garajonay National Park. For decades, the island has attracted people looking for an alternative, decelerated life away from any hustle and bustle. El Hierro: The smallest of the classic seven islands is a pioneer in terms of sustainability, generating a large part of its energy from renewable sources. El Hierro is raw, windswept, and features spectacular diving spots. An ideal environment for people looking for conscious seclusion. 4. The Untouched Paradise: La Graciosa Suitable for: Purists, dropouts, and people looking for absolute deceleration Since 2018, La Graciosa has officially been the eighth inhabited island of the Canaries. Anyone moving here seeks a conscious reduction to the essentials and a life in harmony with the elements. The Lifestyle: There are no asphalted roads on the entire island – you move on foot, by bicycle, or with one of the few licensed all-wheel-drive taxis. Life takes place in the charming main village of Caleta del Sebo, where the fine sand leads right through the streets. Shoes are rarely needed here; community life is honest, neighborly, and wonderfully unhurried. The Nature: Since the island belongs entirely to the Chinijo Archipelago Nature Park, the landscape is strictly protected and characterized by wild beauty. Dream beaches like Playa de las Conchas offer an untouched backdrop. The Exclusive Peace: Logistics run entirely via ferry from nearby Lanzarote. What sounds like an extra effort is at the same time the best protection for the island’s unique character: as soon as the excursion boats depart in the late afternoon, the paradise belongs entirely to the few residents and the absolute silence of the Atlantic. Conclusion The decision for an island is always a balance between desired infrastructure and the degree of connection to nature. While Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer maximum flexibility in everyday life, smaller islands or sandy La Graciosa require a willingness to embrace a more minimalist and decelerated way of life. No matter where your journey takes you: A move across the Atlantic requires precise logistical planning – especially if the destination is one of the smaller islands without a direct flight connection. We at Phoenix Trans Internacional support you in bringing your belongings safely to your island of choice. We know the customs and port regulations of the islands and ensure smooth processing so that you can start your new life under the Canarian sun relaxed.

Which of the 8 Canary Islands suits which lifestyle? Read Post »

Moving to the Canaries with Pets: An Insider’s Guide for Dogs & Cats

May 15, 2026

Moving to the Canary Islands is a dream for many, and four-legged family members are, of course, part of that dream. But take note: although the islands are Spanish territory, their isolated location means they are treated as a “special zone” with strict controls regarding animal transport. As local insiders, we’ll tell you exactly what matters so that your dog or cat’s move doesn’t end in bureaucratic chaos. 1. Identification and Papers: The “Passport” Before the journey begins, the formalities must be correct. Nothing moves without the blue EU Pet Passport. Microchip: This is absolutely mandatory and must be ISO-compliant. Registration: A quick insider tip: as soon as you arrive, you should register your pet in the Canarian database (ZOOCAN). This is a huge help if your darling decides to go on an “exploratory tour” down into a barranco (ravine). 2. Rabies Vaccination: Timing is Everything The Canarian authorities do not mess around when it comes to rabies. The 21-Day Rule: The initial vaccination must have been administered at least 21 days before landing in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, or any of the other islands. Validity: Ensure that the vaccination is documented in the passport without any gaps. 3. The Journey: Plane or the “Cadiz Route”? As insiders, we know that the choice of route determines the stress level. By Flight: Most airlines transport animals. Small dogs can often travel in a bag under the seat, while larger ones travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold. Caution: In summer, the tarmac in Las Palmas or Tenerife South can become extremely hot – try to book early morning flights! By Ferry (from Huelva or Cadiz): Ideal if you are traveling with your car anyway. Be sure to book a “Pet-Friendly Cabin” well in advance so your dog can spend the 30–40 hour crossing with you in the cabin. 4. Health on Site: Beware of the Sandfly Since the Canary Islands belong to a subtropical climate zone, there are insects and parasites here that are virtually unknown in Northern Europe. This includes Leishmaniasis, which is transmitted by sandflies. Prophylaxis: Use high-quality collars or spot-ons specifically designed to protect against the Phlebotomus (sandflies) found here. Heartworm: In the Canaries, heartworm disease (Dirofilariasis) is a serious topic. An insider must: discuss a monthly prophylaxis with your vet as soon as you start living here. A move with pets requires good planning, but the reward is endless hikes through pine forests or relaxed evenings on the finca. Conclusion: With the right timing regarding vaccinations and transport, nothing stands in the way of island happiness on four paws.

Moving to the Canaries with Pets: An Insider’s Guide for Dogs & Cats Read Post »

Safely Packed: Pro Tips for Glass, Art, and Electronics on the High Seas

May 3, 2026

Anyone preparing their belongings for transport to the Canary Islands faces a unique challenge. The sea route involves movement, temperature fluctuations, and multiple handlings. To ensure your most valuable items arrive undamaged, using the right technique is essential. In this article, we share our professional experience to ensure that glass, art, and electronics travel safely in the container. 1. Glass and Porcelain: The Art of Padding Glass is fragile, but with the right layering, it remains well secured. Important: Wrap each piece individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap. Plates should never be placed flat, but always upright in the box – this distributes the pressure much better. Tip: Fill all hollow spaces in the box completely with packing material. Nothing should be able to move when the box is lightly shaken. 2. Art and Paintings: Protection against Pressure and Moisture Artworks are sensitive to external influences. Packaging: Use special picture boxes or build a protective layer from sturdy double-wall cardboard. The corners should be additionally secured with corner protection profiles. Caution: Avoid direct contact between bubble wrap and oil paintings, as this can leave marks. Instead, use acid-free wrapping paper as the first layer. 3. Electronics: Avoiding Statics and Shocks Flat screens and computers are highly sensitive to vibrations. Original Packaging: If possible, always use the original packaging with the matching polystyrene inserts. Alternative: If this is no longer available, wrap the devices in anti-static film and use extremely thick layers of padding. Screens must always be transported upright – never lay TV sets down flat. Important: Due to the risk of fire, many shipping lines no longer accept lithium batteries (such as those from e-bikes, e-scooters, or power banks) in the container. These must be declared in advance or transported via hand luggage. A move across the ocean is not comparable to a move within the neighbourhood. The load must be secured in the container so that it remains stable even in rough seas. Professional packaging is the best insurance for your property. Tip: We at Phoenix know exactly what matters when it comes to stowing your goods. We ensure that your cargo arrives safely. Conclusion: With a little patience and the right material, the sea route is absolutely safe for your treasures. Do you want to bring your belongings to the island stress-free? Phoenix Trans Internacional accompanies your move with expertise and care – from safe packing to arrival at your new home in the Canary Islands.

Safely Packed: Pro Tips for Glass, Art, and Electronics on the High Seas Read Post »

Your Car to the Canary Islands: Transport, Customs and the Spanish License Plate

April 15, 2026

Anyone moving to the Canary Islands or spending an extended period here often doesn’t want to be without their own vehicle. However, the process usually raises many questions: How does the car get to the island? What happens at customs? And why is the Spanish ITV so crucial? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about importing a vehicle. 1. Transport: From domicile, via the port to the destination The journey to the Canary Islands inevitably involves crossing the sea. But even before that, we ensure a worry-free transport from the vehicle’s location to the respective departure port. Shipping: After transport to the port, the vehicle is safely loaded onto the ship and begins its journey to the Canary Islands. Destination ports: Arrival usually takes place at the large terminals of the islands, such as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Santa Cruz de Tenerife. 2. Customs clearance: The infamous DUA Since the Canary Islands are a special fiscal zone, every imported vehicle must clear customs. This involves creating the so-called DUA (Documento Único Administrativo). Important: If you officially move your residence to the Canary Islands, you may be exempt from import tax (IGIC) and potentially registration tax under certain conditions. We help you meet all the necessary deadlines! 3. Registration and the ITV (The Spanish MOT) This is the stage where most private individuals struggle. Before you can receive Spanish plates, the vehicle must pass the ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos). This process requires bureaucratic handling in advance. Why the ITV is so important: Without a passed ITV inspection, there is no Spanish registration. Not only is the technical condition checked, but also whether the vehicle complies with Spanish standards (e.g., Certificate of Conformity/COC paper). Tip: We handle the entire appointment process at the ITV. This saves you time, spares your nerves, and guarantees a smooth process. 4. The Finale: Spanish license plates After customs and the ITV, we handle the formalities at the Tráfico (Traffic Department) and the Town Hall (road tax). Only then can the plates be swapped. Conclusion: Bringing a car to the Canary Islands isn’t rocket science if you know the bureaucratic hurdles. Want to register your vehicle stress-free? Phoenix Trans Internacional handles the entire process for you – from transport to the finished license plates on the Canary Islands.

Your Car to the Canary Islands: Transport, Customs and the Spanish License Plate Read Post »