Holidaymakers who are keen to laze on Lanzarote’s sun-drenched beaches and soak up its relaxed atmosphere will be pleased to hear about new flights being launched by Aer Lingus this autumn. From the 25th of October this year, the Irish airline will be running flights three times a week between Gatwick and Lanzarote’s Arrecife airport, making year-round sunshine, breathtaking scenery and cheap Lanzarote hotels even more accessible.

This news follows an announcement earlier in the year on airport tax discounts that will be offered by the Spanish government for qualifying airlines flying to Spanish destinations. This is an attempt by the government to give tourism a boost, both on the mainland and Spanish islands, in the hope that it will encourage even more new routes to these popular holiday destinations. With the credit crunch taking its toll on holidaymakers’ pockets, Lanzarote – like a number of other European destinations – experienced a drop in visitor numbers. Its airport saw a reduction of 3.3% in December 2008 compared with the previous year, which sparked concern about the health of the local tourist economy.

News of the new London - Lanzarote route will certainly be welcomed by the island. At the same time it’s great news for holidaymakers as well, offering sun-seekers the chance to enjoy an idyllic island getaway at an appealing price. The new flights start from £34.99 one way, meaning this popular Canary Island destination is shaping up as an excellent choice this winter. There are also some fantastic deals on Lanzarote hotels to be had. A bungalow for two in a four star resort at the end of October, for example, can be found for as little as £14 per person per night, while all-inclusive hotel options can be booked for around £27 per person per night. So, with troubled financial times meaning great deals both in the air and on the ground, an autumn sunshine break is well within reach this year.