Thisisgrancanaria.com Review

Based on looking at the website Thisisgrancanaria.com, it presents itself as a booking platform for various tourist activities in Gran Canaria.

While the site features popular attractions and offers seemingly comprehensive options for visitors, a strict review of its offerings reveals several areas of concern, particularly from an ethical standpoint and in terms of typical trusted online service practices.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Overall Recommendation: Not Recommended.
• Purpose: Booking platform for tourist activities in Gran Canaria.
• Primary Offerings: Boat trips, excursions, water sports, and other holiday activities.
• Transparency: While contact details are provided, key information like a clear “About Us” section detailing the company’s background, ownership, or mission is conspicuously absent. There’s no readily available privacy policy, terms of service, or robust refund/cancellation policies explicitly linked from the homepage, which are standard for trusted online booking platforms. The “Cookie Declaration” link is insufficient for full transparency.
• Pricing: Prices are listed with “RRP” and a discounted rate, but the basis for these RRPs is not clear, and there’s no transparent breakdown of what the price includes beyond the activity itself.
• Customer Support: Contact numbers and email are provided, but the depth and accessibility of support, especially for issues like cancellations or disputes, are not detailed.
• Security: No visible security badges or clear statements on how user data and payment information are protected, which is critical for an e-commerce site.

The website, Thisisgrancanaria.com, aims to be your one-stop shop for everything to do in Gran Canaria.

It promotes a wide array of activities, from “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria” and “Jeep Safari Gran Canaria” to “Private Yacht & Captain” and “Jet Ski Safari Gran Canaria.” While these activities might seem appealing for a holiday, the lack of transparency regarding ethical considerations, robust privacy policies, and comprehensive terms and conditions casts a significant shadow.

For instance, the promotion of “shows” and “nightlife” without clear content guidelines raises concerns about the nature of these entertainments.

A trusted platform, especially one appealing to a diverse audience, should prioritize clear ethical guidelines for its offerings and robust customer protections.

The absence of fundamental elements such as a detailed “About Us” page, comprehensive terms of service, or a clear privacy policy makes it challenging to assess the legitimacy and trustworthiness of Thisisgrancanaria.com fully.

Here are some better alternatives for ethical and transparent travel planning, focusing on general travel resources and tools rather than direct activity booking, to provide a foundational approach to responsible travel:

• Skyscanner:

  

  • Key Features: Comprehensive flight, hotel, and car rental search. Offers flexible date searches to find the best deals.
  • Average Price: Varies based on travel choices.
  • Pros: Excellent for price comparison. user-friendly interface. ethical travel by encouraging efficient travel.
  • Cons: Does not directly book activities. focuses on core travel logistics.

• TripAdvisor:

  • Key Features: Extensive user reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants, and attractions. forums for traveler advice.
  • Average Price: Free to use for research.
  • Pros: Rich source of real traveler feedback. promotes informed decisions. can help identify ethical local businesses.
  • Cons: User reviews can be subjective. doesn’t always vet the ethical practices of every listed business.

• Booking.com:

  • Key Features: Wide selection of accommodations globally, from hotels to apartments. flexible booking options. often offers free cancellation.
  • Average Price: Varies based on accommodation.
  • Pros: Reliable platform for accommodation. clear cancellation policies. good for planning stays.
  • Cons: Some properties might not be ethically sourced. user needs to verify ethical practices of individual listings.

• Google Flights:

  • Key Features: Fast and intuitive flight search. price tracking. allows exploring destinations based on budget.
  • Average Price: Varies based on flights.
  • Pros: Excellent for finding flight deals. integrates with Google services. helps in efficient travel planning.
  • Cons: Only focuses on flights. no direct ethical vetting of airlines.

• Lonely Planet Guides:

  • Key Features: In-depth travel guides for destinations worldwide. focuses on local experiences, culture, and responsible tourism.
  • Average Price: $15-$30 for physical guides. digital versions available.
  • Pros: Promotes cultural immersion and responsible travel. offers practical advice. good for ethical exploration.
  • Cons: Not a booking platform. requires manual planning of activities.

• Responsible Travel:

  • Key Features: Specializes in ethical and sustainable tours and holidays. rigorously vets tour operators for environmental and social impact.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on tour.
  • Pros: Strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable tourism. ensures positive local impact.
  • Cons: Limited selection compared to mainstream sites. might be pricier due to ethical commitments.

• Expedia Group for general travel search and comparison:

  • Key Features: Aggregates flights, hotels, car rentals, and some activity bookings. Offers package deals.
  • Average Price: Varies based on package.
  • Pros: Comprehensive travel planning. convenience of booking multiple services in one place.
  • Cons: User needs to apply their own ethical filter to activities. some activities offered might not align with ethical values.

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Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Review & First Look

When you first land on Thisisgrancanaria.com, you’re greeted with a vibrant display of Gran Canaria’s “Top Activities.” The site immediately presents itself as a gateway to holiday experiences, showcasing popular options like “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour,” “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria,” and “Jeep Safari Gran Canaria” with discounted prices prominently displayed.

This immediate focus on popular, discounted activities is a common tactic for travel booking sites aiming to capture immediate interest.

The site appears designed to be visually appealing, with large images and clear calls to action, drawing users into the idea of an adventurous holiday.

Initial Impressions on Design and Usability

The website’s design is fairly modern and responsive, making it accessible on various devices.

Navigation is straightforward, with clear categories for “Boat Trips,” “Excursions and Tours,” and “Water Sports.” This intuitive layout is a definite plus for user experience.

The immediate presentation of popular activities with “RRP” and discounted prices aims to create a sense of value and urgency.

For instance, the “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour” is listed at “RRP €130 €119,” suggesting a saving.

However, the basis of this “RRP” Recommended Retail Price is not immediately clear, and without a transparent breakdown, it’s hard to verify the actual value proposition.

Lack of Essential Trust Elements

A critical area where Thisisgrancanaria.com falls short is the absence of key trust-building elements commonly found on legitimate e-commerce and booking platforms.

There is no prominent “About Us” page detailing the company’s history, mission, or team. Outsurance.ie Review

This lack of transparency about who is behind the operation can be a significant red flag for potential customers.

Furthermore, while a “Cookie Declaration” link is present, a comprehensive and easily accessible “Privacy Policy” and “Terms of Service” are notably missing from the main navigation or footer.

These documents are fundamental for any online business, outlining how user data is handled, what users can expect, and their rights and responsibilities.

The absence of such critical legal and informational pages raises questions about the platform’s commitment to user data protection and fair business practices.

For instance, reputable sites typically detail how they use cookies, how they handle personal information like email addresses and payment details, and what recourse users have in case of disputes.

Without these, users are left with limited understanding of their contractual relationship with the platform.

Customer Review Integration

The website does feature customer testimonials, such as “Fantastic experience for everyone.

It was amazing to see dolphins, turtles and whales in their natural environment.

Staff was brilliant too.” These reviews are often powerful social proof, but their integration appears static, with no clear link to a larger, verifiable review system like Trustpilot or Google Reviews. While star ratings e.g., “4.9 out of 5 stars” are displayed for individual activities, there’s no visible mechanism for users to submit new reviews or verify the authenticity of existing ones.

This lack of dynamic, verifiable customer feedback can undermine trust. Trendtvision.com Review

Thisisgrancanaria.com Ethical Considerations and Red Flags

When evaluating Thisisgrancanaria.com from an ethical standpoint, several significant red flags emerge.

While the platform offers various activities that might seem harmless on the surface, the overall lack of transparency, coupled with the promotion of certain types of entertainment, raises concerns about the platform’s adherence to ethical principles, especially for those seeking purposeful and responsible travel.

Absence of Ethical Guidelines or Commitments

A major ethical concern is the complete absence of any stated ethical guidelines, sustainability commitments, or responsible tourism initiatives.

In an era where conscious travel is gaining traction, reputable travel platforms often highlight their efforts to support local communities, minimize environmental impact, or ensure fair practices.

Thisisgrancanaria.com makes no mention of such principles.

For example, a platform committed to ethical tourism might explain how it ensures animal welfare in activities like “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria” or “Horse Riding Gran Canaria,” or how it supports local economies through its tour operators.

The silence on these crucial aspects suggests a transactional focus without deeper consideration for broader ethical responsibilities.

Promotion of Questionable Activities

The website mentions “shows” and “nightlife” in its FAQ section as popular activities in Gran Canaria.

While not directly booking these, their inclusion as a selling point without any qualification is concerning. Farmskins.com Review

“Nightlife” can encompass a wide range of activities, some of which may involve environments that are not conducive to ethical behavior, such as excessive consumption or immodest interactions. Similarly, “shows” can vary widely in content.

A platform committed to ethical principles would either avoid promoting such broad categories or provide clear disclaimers and guidance for users to ensure they choose wholesome and permissible entertainment.

The lack of filtering or ethical vetting for these types of activities is a significant drawback.

Data Privacy and Security Concerns

The absence of a clear, comprehensive Privacy Policy and Terms of Service is a critical ethical failure.

Ethical platforms are transparent about how they collect, use, store, and protect user data.

Without these documents, users cannot make informed decisions about sharing their personal information, including contact details and potentially payment information.

This lack of transparency is not merely a legal oversight but an ethical one, as it puts user privacy at risk.

Trustworthy platforms typically detail their data encryption methods, their policies on sharing data with third parties, and user rights regarding their data, aligning with global data protection regulations like GDPR. The current setup offers no such assurances.

Lack of Transparency in Pricing and Partnerships

While prices are listed, the “RRP” Recommended Retail Price is presented without a clear explanation of its origin or how it is calculated. This lack of transparency can be misleading.

Ethical pricing ensures that customers understand what they are paying for and why. Vecteezy.com Review

Furthermore, there’s no information about the partnerships with local activity providers.

Are these providers vetted for their ethical practices, safety standards, or fair labor practices? Without this information, users cannot be certain that their bookings support responsible businesses.

A truly ethical platform would offer insights into its partnerships, perhaps featuring profiles of local businesses and their commitment to sustainable or ethical operations.

No Visible Customer Dispute Resolution

Beyond contact numbers, there’s no visible mechanism for formal customer dispute resolution or a clear complaints procedure.

Ethical businesses provide straightforward channels for customers to address issues, whether it’s a refund request, a service complaint, or a safety concern.

The absence of such a system can leave customers vulnerable and without recourse if problems arise during their holiday activities.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Features and Missing Ones

Thisisgrancanaria.com offers a relatively straightforward set of features aimed at simplifying the booking of activities in Gran Canaria.

However, a deeper dive reveals a significant number of missing features that are standard for modern, trustworthy online booking platforms, hindering both user experience and confidence.

Core Booking Functionality

The website’s primary feature is the ability to browse and book various activities. Myfirst.com Review

Users can navigate through categories like “Boat Trips,” “Excursions and Tours,” and “Water Sports.” Each activity page provides a brief description, star ratings, and the “RRP” alongside a discounted price.

This basic functionality is present and seemingly operational, allowing users to select an activity and proceed to a booking form though the full booking process, including payment gateway details, isn’t fully transparent without actual interaction.

Multilingual Support

The site offers multilingual support, indicated by language selectors for English, Spanish, German, French, Polish, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, and Italian.

This is a positive feature, catering to a broad international audience visiting Gran Canaria.

However, the quality of translations or the extent to which all content is localized is not verifiable without testing each language version extensively.

Contact Information

Basic contact information is provided, including two UK phone numbers +44 800 920 2208, +44 7983 825883 and an email address . A physical address in London, UK 20-22 Wenlock Road, London, United Kingdom, N1 7GU, is also listed.

This level of contact detail is a minimum expectation for any online business, offering a direct channel for customer inquiries.

Social Media Integration

Links to Facebook and Instagram pages are present, allowing users to connect with the platform on social media.

This is standard practice for online businesses to build community and provide additional touchpoints for engagement.

Missing Key Features

Here’s where Thisisgrancanaria.com significantly falls short: Sezane.com Review

• Secure Payment Badges/Information: There’s no visible indication of secure payment processing e.g., PCI DSS compliance badges, explicit mention of SSL encryption for payment pages. For any e-commerce site, assurance of payment security is paramount. Users need to know their credit card information is protected.
• Customer Accounts and Booking Management: There’s no evident feature for users to create accounts, view past bookings, manage reservations, or easily print tickets. This is a standard convenience offered by virtually all major booking platforms, providing users with self-service options.
• Detailed Activity Information: While descriptions are present, they often lack critical details such as:
  • Inclusion/Exclusion Lists: What exactly is included in the price e.g., transfers, meals, equipment rental? What is excluded?
  • Specific Meeting Points and Times: While general times might be mentioned, precise meeting instructions are crucial for smooth operations.
  • Age/Health Restrictions: Are there minimum age requirements, weight limits, or health conditions that preclude participation?
  • Cancellation and Refund Policies Per Activity: General policies are needed, but specific activities often have unique cancellation windows or fees.
• User Review System: As noted, existing reviews appear static. A dynamic, verifiable review system e.g., integrated with Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or an internal system allowing users to post and view reviews is missing. This impacts social proof and user trust.
• “About Us” Page: A dedicated page detailing the company’s background, team, values, and mission is absent. This transparency is crucial for building credibility and trust.
• Comprehensive Legal Pages: Beyond the cookie declaration, robust Privacy Policy and Terms of Service documents are not prominently linked or easily found. These are non-negotiable for online businesses.
• FAQ Expansion: While a basic FAQ section is present, it’s limited to general questions about Gran Canaria. A more comprehensive FAQ would address common booking-related queries, troubleshooting, and specific activity details.
• Gift Vouchers/Certificates: Many activity booking sites offer gift options, which could be a significant revenue stream and convenience for users.
• Wishlist/Favorites: A feature allowing users to save activities they are interested in for later comparison or booking would enhance user experience.
• Real-Time Availability: The website displays activities, but it’s unclear if the availability shown is real-time or if users will encounter booking conflicts later.
• Dynamic Pricing Transparency: While discounts are shown, the mechanism behind the “RRP” and how prices might fluctuate is not explained.

The absence of these standard features creates a significant gap between Thisisgrancanaria.com and leading online travel agencies, impacting both user convenience and overall trustworthiness.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Cons Significant Drawbacks

Based on a thorough examination of Thisisgrancanaria.com, there are several notable drawbacks that significantly impact its credibility, user experience, and overall recommendation.

These cons are critical for any potential user to consider before engaging with the platform.

1. Lack of Transparency and Trust Elements

Perhaps the most glaring issue is the severe lack of transparency regarding the company itself and its operational policies.

• No “About Us” Page: There is no dedicated page explaining who Thisisgrancanaria.com is, their history, their mission, or their team. This absence makes it difficult to ascertain the legitimacy and credibility of the business behind the website. In an online environment, transparency is key to building trust.
• Missing Comprehensive Legal Documents: While a “Cookie Declaration” is present, there is no easily accessible or clearly linked “Privacy Policy” or “Terms of Service.” These documents are fundamental for any e-commerce website. Without them, users have no clear understanding of how their personal data is collected, used, and protected, nor do they know the legal terms and conditions governing their bookings, cancellations, or disputes. This is a significant red flag for data privacy and consumer rights.
• Unverifiable Reviews: While star ratings and a few testimonials are displayed, there’s no clear integration with a reputable third-party review platform like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or TripAdvisor or a verifiable internal review system. This makes it challenging for users to determine the authenticity of the presented feedback.

2. Ethical Concerns Regarding Activity Promotion

The website’s promotion of certain activities raises ethical questions:

• Broad “Nightlife” and “Shows” Promotion: The FAQ section explicitly lists “shows” and “nightlife” as popular activities. Without any specific details or ethical guidelines, this broad promotion can encompass activities that are not aligned with ethical principles, such as those involving excessive consumption, immodest interactions, or exploitative entertainment. A responsible platform would either vet these offerings rigorously or provide clear warnings about their nature.

3. Inadequate Information on Activity Details

The descriptions for individual activities, while present, often lack crucial details that would enable users to make fully informed decisions:

• Vague Inclusions/Exclusions: It’s frequently unclear what exactly is included in the price e.g., transfers, meals, equipment, guides and what additional costs might be incurred.
• Ambiguous Logistics: Precise meeting points, specific start/end times, and what to bring are not always clearly outlined on the activity pages, potentially leading to confusion or missed experiences.
• Lack of Age/Health Restrictions: For activities like “Jet Ski Safari” or “Buggy Tour,” critical information regarding age limits, physical fitness requirements, or health restrictions is not prominently displayed.

4. No Visible Secure Payment Assurance

The website does not display any prominent security badges e.g., SSL certificate logos, PCI DSS compliance to assure users that their payment transactions are secure and encrypted.

While HTTPS is generally used for secure communication, explicit trust signals are crucial for e-commerce, especially when handling sensitive financial information.

5. Limited Customer Support and Self-Service Options

While contact numbers and an email are provided, the extent of customer support is unclear. Wardow.com Review

• No Dedicated Support Center: There’s no comprehensive help center or FAQ section for booking-related queries, troubleshooting common issues, or understanding cancellation procedures.
• Absence of User Accounts: The lack of a user account system means customers cannot easily manage their bookings, view purchase history, or access their tickets without manual intervention, which is a significant inconvenience compared to industry standards.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Alternatives for Ethical and Reliable Travel

Since Thisisgrancanaria.com exhibits significant ethical and transparency concerns, exploring alternatives that prioritize user trust, clear policies, and responsible operations is crucial.

The goal isn’t just booking a trip, but doing so with peace of mind.

Here are some categories and specific platforms that offer more reliable frameworks for planning and booking travel, focusing on general travel resources rather than specific activity bookings to empower users with broader ethical choices.

1. Comprehensive Online Travel Agencies OTAs with Established Trust

While no OTA is perfect, major players have invested heavily in robust legal frameworks, customer support, and security. It’s important to always read their terms and conditions carefully for specific bookings.

• Booking.com

  

  • Why it’s an alternative: Offers a vast selection of accommodations and some activities with transparent reviews, clear cancellation policies often flexible, and secure payment processing. They have a well-defined privacy policy and terms of service.
  • Key Features: Extensive filter options, Genius loyalty program, free cancellation on many bookings, 24/7 customer support.
  • Pros: High transparency in policies, secure payment gateways, large user base with verified reviews.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming due to sheer volume. ethical commitment varies by individual property/activity.

• Expedia

  • Why it’s an alternative: A global leader in travel bookings, providing flights, hotels, car rentals, and some local tours. Benefits from extensive legal teams and customer service infrastructure.
  • Key Features: Package deals flight+hotel, loyalty program, detailed booking confirmations, robust privacy and terms pages.
  • Pros: Established reputation, wide range of services, detailed legal information.
  • Cons: Can sometimes offer too many choices. ethical considerations for specific activities require user diligence.

2. Ethical & Sustainable Travel Platforms

For those prioritizing responsible travel, these platforms specifically curate options with ethical considerations in mind.

• Responsible Travel Bycastello.com Review

  • Why it’s an alternative: This platform is explicitly focused on ethical and sustainable tourism. They carefully vet their tour operators for environmental, social, and economic responsibility.
  • Key Features: Handpicked trips, detailed ethical policies, focus on local communities, transparency about tour operator practices.
  • Pros: Strong ethical foundation, peace of mind regarding responsible impact, often unique and authentic experiences.
  • Cons: Niche focus means fewer options than mainstream sites, might be pricier due to ethical commitments.

• Intrepid Travel Check for availability in Gran Canaria

  • Why it’s an alternative: A leading small-group adventure travel company with a strong commitment to responsible travel, including animal welfare policies and local economic support.
  • Key Features: Small group tours, local leaders, focus on authentic experiences, clear sustainability reports.
  • Pros: High ethical standards, immersive experiences, community-focused.
  • Cons: Primarily offers multi-day tours, not single activities, so may not fit all needs.

3. Peer-to-Peer Accommodation and Activity Platforms with Caution

While these offer unique experiences, due diligence is paramount.

• Airbnb Experiences
  • Why it’s an alternative: While primarily known for accommodation, Airbnb also offers “Experiences” led by locals. These can range from cooking classes to guided walks.
  • Key Features: Diverse local experiences, host profiles and reviews, secure booking and payment system.
  • Pros: Authentic local insights, direct communication with hosts, generally clear policies.
  • Cons: Quality and ethical stance depend heavily on individual hosts. always check reviews and host background.

4. Independent Research and Direct Booking

For ultimate control over ethical choices, research specific local operators directly.

• Local Tourist Boards/Official Gran Canaria Tourism Sites:
  • Why it’s an alternative: These government-backed sites often list certified local operators and provide general information about responsible tourism in the region.
  • Key Features: Official information, verified listings, local insights.
  • Pros: Highly reliable information, direct links to local businesses, supports local economy.
  • Cons: Don’t offer direct booking, require more personal research.

When choosing any alternative, the key is to prioritize platforms that demonstrate transparency in their operations, clear policies on data handling, and a visible commitment to ethical practices.

Always look for a comprehensive Privacy Policy, Terms of Service, and explicit information on how they handle customer data and disputes.

How to Avoid Unreliable Travel Websites

Avoiding unreliable websites is crucial for protecting your personal data, ensuring your bookings are legitimate, and safeguarding your financial information.

Here’s a pragmatic approach to vetting travel websites, drawing on lessons from what Thisisgrancanaria.com lacks.

1. Scrutinize Transparency and Legal Information

The first line of defense is a thorough check of the website’s transparency.

• Look for “About Us”: A legitimate company is proud to tell you who they are. A well-developed “About Us” page will detail their history, mission, team, and perhaps even their physical location and registration. If this is missing or extremely vague, consider it a significant red flag.
• Locate Privacy Policy and Terms of Service: These are non-negotiable. Every reputable website, especially one handling personal data and transactions, must have clearly linked and comprehensive Privacy Policies and Terms of Service. Read them. They should outline how your data is collected, used, stored, and protected, as well as the rules governing your transactions, cancellations, and disputes. If these are absent, incomplete, or hard to find, move on.
• Find Contact Information: Look for multiple contact methods: phone numbers and test them if possible, email addresses, and a physical address. Be wary of sites that only offer a contact form or a generic email address. A real business has real contact details.

2. Verify Security Measures

Your financial and personal data are at stake, so security is paramount. Chiclefrique.com Review

• Check for HTTPS: Ensure the website uses HTTPS Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure in its URL, indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. This means the communication between your browser and the website is encrypted. While not a guarantee of legitimacy, its absence is a major red flag.
• Look for Payment Security Badges: Reputable sites often display logos from trusted payment gateways e.g., Visa Secure, MasterCard SecureCode, PayPal and security certifications e.g., McAfee Secure, Norton Secured, PCI DSS compliance. These indicate that they adhere to industry standards for payment processing.

3. Evaluate Customer Reviews and Reputation

Social proof is powerful, but it needs to be verifiable.

• Search for Independent Reviews: Don’t just rely on testimonials on the website itself. Use external review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, or industry-specific forums. Look for a consistent pattern of positive reviews over time, and pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback.
• Check for Red Flags in Reviews: Be suspicious of sites with overwhelmingly positive, generic reviews that sound too good to be true, especially if they appear suddenly. Conversely, a high volume of unaddressed complaints about booking issues, hidden fees, or non-existent customer service is a clear warning sign.
• Longevity and Online Presence: Use tools like Whois.com to check the domain registration date. Newer domains with limited online history or social media presence can be riskier.

4. Assess Pricing and Activity Details

Unrealistic offers and vague information are often indicative of problems.

• Be Wary of “Too Good to Be True” Deals: While discounts are common, prices significantly lower than competitors for the same activity might indicate hidden fees, bait-and-switch tactics, or even fraudulent activity.
• Demand Detailed Activity Information: Reputable booking sites provide comprehensive details for each activity: what’s included and excluded, exact meeting points, specific timings, age/health restrictions, and clear cancellation policies for that specific activity. Vague descriptions suggest a lack of professionalism or an attempt to obscure important facts.

5. Trust Your Gut and Research More

If something feels off, it probably is.

• Grammar and Spelling: Frequent typos, grammatical errors, or awkward phrasing can indicate an unprofessional operation.
• Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious of email offers or pop-ups from unfamiliar sites promising incredible deals.
• Compare Across Platforms: Always cross-reference prices and availability on multiple reputable sites. If an activity is only available on one obscure site, proceed with extreme caution.

By diligently applying these vetting steps, you can significantly reduce your risk when planning your travels online and ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate and trustworthy platform.

Thisisgrancanaria.com Pricing and Value Proposition

Thisisgrancanaria.com positions itself as a competitive option for booking Gran Canaria activities by prominently displaying discounted prices.

The typical pricing structure presented is an “RRP” Recommended Retail Price crossed out, alongside a lower, “discounted” price.

For example, a “Gran Canaria Buggy Tour” is shown as “RRP €130 €119,” and a “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria” as “RRP €42 €38.” This strategy aims to create an immediate perception of value and savings for the consumer.

Pricing Structure Analysis

The model used is straightforward: list a seemingly higher original price and then a lower, more attractive current price.

• “RRP” Ambiguity: The primary issue with this pricing model on Thisisgrancanaria.com is the lack of clarity surrounding the “RRP.” It’s not specified who sets this RRP, what it’s based on e.g., direct booking price with the operator, average market price, previous price on the site, or when it was last updated. Without this transparency, the perceived discount might be arbitrary or even misleading. Reputable sites usually either state the original price and its validity clearly or simply list the current price without an unverifiable “RRP.”
• Flat Rate for Activities: The pricing appears to be a flat rate per person or per activity unit, with no obvious tiered pricing based on group size, time of day, or other common variables found in activity bookings.
• Currency Display: Prices are displayed in Euros €, which is appropriate for a European destination. However, the site’s UK contact details suggest a strong UK customer base, and it doesn’t offer dynamic currency conversion based on user location, which could be a minor inconvenience for international travelers.

Value Proposition Scrutiny

The website’s value proposition hinges on offering “the best activities in Gran Canaria to make your holiday perfect” at competitive prices. Ssl.com Review

• Convenience: The site attempts to offer a convenient, centralized platform for booking various activities, saving users from navigating multiple local operator websites. This is a core value proposition for any online booking agent.
• Perceived Savings: The discounted prices aim to convey immediate financial benefits. However, as noted, the transparency around the “RRP” makes it hard to truly ascertain the extent of these savings.
• Variety of Activities: The platform lists a decent range of popular activities, from boat trips to safaris and watersports, suggesting it caters to diverse interests.

What’s Missing in the Value Proposition and Price Transparency

• No Price Guarantees: There’s no mention of a “best price guarantee” or “price match” policy, which is common among leading online travel agencies that aim to instill confidence in their pricing.
• Lack of Inclusions/Exclusions Clarity: For many activities, the price listed is just a number. It’s often unclear what exactly is included e.g., transfer to/from hotel, specific equipment, meals, guide services, taxes, tips. This lack of detail can lead to unexpected hidden costs or dissatisfaction if expectations aren’t met. A true value proposition includes clarity on the complete package.
• Refund and Cancellation Policy Clarity: While pricing is shown, the terms under which refunds or cancellations are processed are not readily available on the activity pages or linked clearly from the booking process. The absence of this critical information diminishes the perceived value and increases booking risk for the customer.
• No Loyalty Programs or Bundling Discounts: Unlike many travel platforms, there’s no visible loyalty program, referral bonuses, or options to bundle multiple activities for additional savings. This limits the long-term value for returning customers or those planning extensive trips.

In conclusion, while Thisisgrancanaria.com tries to present itself as a value-driven platform through discounted pricing, the lack of transparency around the “RRP,” the vagueness of inclusions, and the absence of clear refund/cancellation policies significantly undermine its overall value proposition and raise concerns about true cost and accountability.

Potential users should proceed with caution and perform independent research to verify prices and inclusions before booking.

Gran Canaria Tourist Activities: Exploring Ethical Options

Gran Canaria is undeniably a popular tourist destination, offering a wide array of activities from its beaches to its mountainous interior.

While Thisisgrancanaria.com highlights many of these, a crucial aspect for any traveler, especially those seeking ethical and purposeful experiences, is to discern which activities align with their values.

Many popular tourist activities can have environmental or social impacts that are not immediately apparent.

Understanding the Landscape of Gran Canaria Activities

Gran Canaria’s tourism sector is diverse, catering to various interests:

• Coastal Activities: This includes traditional beach leisure, as well as watersports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and boat trips dolphin watching, catamaran cruises.
• Cultural & Leisure: Theme parks, local markets, and evening entertainment shows, nightlife are also part of the island’s offerings.

Ethical Considerations in Popular Tourist Activities

When engaging in tourist activities, it’s vital to consider their broader impact:

• Animal Welfare: Activities involving animals, such as “Dolphin Trip Gran Canaria” or “Horse Riding Gran Canaria” and “Camel Safari Park,” require careful scrutiny. Ethical animal tourism ensures that animals are treated humanely, live in appropriate conditions, and are not exploited for entertainment. Look for operators who prioritize the animals’ well-being, educate tourists, and adhere to strict ethical guidelines. For dolphin watching, for example, ensure the operator practices responsible viewing distances and does not disturb the animals in their natural habitat. For riding animals, check for signs of animal health and proper care.
• Environmental Impact: Activities like buggy tours, jeep safaris, and jet-skiing can have significant environmental footprints. Off-road vehicles can damage fragile ecosystems, and watersports can contribute to noise pollution and marine disruption. Ethical operators will emphasize environmental protection, adhere to designated routes, and minimize their carbon footprint. Support businesses that promote conservation and educate tourists on preserving the natural environment.
• Cultural Respect and Local Impact: Engaging with local markets, trying local food, and participating in cultural tours can be enriching. However, “shows” and “nightlife” can sometimes be exploitative or promote behaviors contrary to local values. Prioritize activities that genuinely support local communities, showcase authentic culture, and avoid contributing to superficial or harmful entertainment. Ensure that the economic benefits from your activities flow back to the local population and not just to large, foreign-owned corporations.
• Safety and Regulations: Any adventure activity carries inherent risks. Ethical operators prioritize safety, adhere to local regulations, use well-maintained equipment, and employ trained professionals. Verify that tour operators are licensed and insured, and that they provide clear safety briefings.

Choosing Ethical Options for Your Gran Canaria Trip

To ensure a more ethical and responsible trip to Gran Canaria, consider these steps:

1. Prioritize Nature-Based, Low-Impact Activities: Opt for hiking in national parks, exploring natural beaches responsibly, or guided nature walks. These activities generally have a lower environmental impact and promote appreciation for the natural beauty of the island.
2. Research Animal Encounters: If you choose an animal-related activity, research the operator’s animal welfare policies. Look for certifications from recognized animal welfare organizations. For marine life tours, select companies that emphasize observational ethics and conservation.
3. Support Local, Sustainable Businesses: Seek out small, locally owned businesses that have clear commitments to sustainability and fair labor practices. This ensures that your tourism dollars directly benefit the local economy and communities.
4. Educate Yourself: Learn about local customs, environmental challenges, and ethical guidelines for tourists. Websites like the World Tourism Organization UNWTO and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council GSTC offer valuable resources on responsible travel.
5. Be Mindful of Consumption: Reduce waste, conserve water and energy, and choose local products.
6. Avoid Activities Promoting Questionable Content: Steer clear of “shows” or “nightlife” options that lack transparent information about their content or might be exploitative. Focus on wholesome and culturally enriching experiences.

By being a discerning traveler and actively seeking out ethically sound options, you can ensure your visit to Gran Canaria is not only enjoyable but also leaves a positive footprint on the island and its communities. Evisatravel.org Review

FAQ

What is Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Thisisgrancanaria.com is an online platform that offers booking services for various tourist activities in Gran Canaria, including boat trips, excursions, and water sports, aiming to simplify holiday planning for visitors to the island.

Is Thisisgrancanaria.com a legitimate website?

Based on its online presence, Thisisgrancanaria.com provides contact details and lists activities with prices.

However, it lacks crucial elements like a comprehensive “About Us” page, detailed privacy policy, and terms of service, which are standard for fully legitimate and transparent online booking platforms, raising concerns about its overall credibility.

What types of activities does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer?

Thisisgrancanaria.com offers a range of popular activities such as Gran Canaria Buggy Tours, Dolphin Trips, Jeep Safaris, Private Yacht & Captain experiences, Jet Ski Safaris, Catamaran Trips, and Horse Riding.

Are the prices on Thisisgrancanaria.com competitive?

The website displays prices with “RRP” Recommended Retail Price and a lower discounted price.

While this aims to show competitiveness, the basis of the “RRP” is not clearly explained, making it difficult to verify the true extent of the savings or compare effectively with other platforms.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com have an “About Us” page?

No, Thisisgrancanaria.com does not prominently feature a dedicated “About Us” page that details the company’s background, mission, or team, which is a significant transparency concern for a commercial website.

Where can I find the Privacy Policy for Thisisgrancanaria.com?

A comprehensive Privacy Policy is not clearly linked or easily found on Thisisgrancanaria.com.

While a “Cookie Declaration” is present, a full privacy policy detailing data handling is absent, which is a major drawback for user data protection. Qonto.com Review

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com have Terms of Service?

No, readily accessible and comprehensive Terms of Service are not prominently displayed or linked on Thisisgrancanaria.com, leaving users without clear contractual terms for their bookings and interactions with the platform.

How can I contact Thisisgrancanaria.com?

You can contact Thisisgrancanaria.com via two UK phone numbers +44 800 920 2208, +44 7983 825883 and an email address . A physical address in London, UK, is also provided.

Are there customer reviews on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Yes, the website displays star ratings for activities and a few customer testimonials.

However, there is no visible integration with a third-party review platform or a dynamic system for users to submit new reviews, making verification of their authenticity challenging.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer multilingual support?

Yes, Thisisgrancanaria.com provides language options for English, Spanish, German, French, Polish, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, and Italian, catering to a diverse international audience.

What are the ethical concerns with Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Ethical concerns include the lack of transparency about the company, the absence of clear policies on data privacy and terms of service, and the general promotion of “shows” and “nightlife” without ethical guidelines or clarity on content, which may include activities not aligned with responsible principles.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com mention sustainability or animal welfare?

No, Thisisgrancanaria.com does not explicitly mention any commitment to sustainability, responsible tourism practices, or animal welfare policies for activities involving animals, such as dolphin trips or horse riding.

Are bookings on Thisisgrancanaria.com secure?

The website uses HTTPS for secure communication, but there are no prominent displays of additional security badges e.g., PCI DSS compliance to specifically assure users about the security of their payment transactions.

Can I create a user account on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Based on the visible features, Thisisgrancanaria.com does not appear to offer a user account system for customers to manage their bookings, view past purchases, or save preferences.

How do I cancel a booking on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Information on how to cancel a booking or the specific cancellation policy is not clearly outlined on the activity pages or prominently linked from the main navigation, which is a significant missing feature for customer service. Oakleafe.claims Review

What are some ethical alternatives to Thisisgrancanaria.com for travel planning?

Ethical alternatives include reputable online travel agencies like Booking.com or Expedia for general travel, and specialized platforms like Responsible Travel or Intrepid Travel for ethically-focused tours, which offer greater transparency and commitment to responsible practices.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com provide detailed inclusions for activities?

The descriptions for activities often lack comprehensive details regarding what is explicitly included in the price e.g., transfers, equipment, meals and what might be excluded or incur additional costs, leading to potential ambiguities for the user.

Is it safe to provide personal information on Thisisgrancanaria.com?

Due to the absence of a clear Privacy Policy and comprehensive Terms of Service, users cannot fully understand how their personal data will be handled, stored, or protected.

This lack of transparency means exercising caution when providing sensitive information.

Does Thisisgrancanaria.com offer gift vouchers or loyalty programs?

Based on the website’s current features, there is no visible indication of gift voucher options, loyalty programs, or any incentives for returning customers.

How can I verify the legitimacy of online travel booking sites in general?

To verify legitimacy, always check for a clear “About Us” page, comprehensive Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, multiple contact methods, secure payment badges HTTPS, PCI DSS, and independent reviews on external platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews.

Be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true” and sites with vague information.

Tangbuy.com Review