**British Expat Stunned by Budget Full English Breakfast in Tenerife**
Tenerife—the largest and perhaps most famed of the Canary Islands—attracts millions of visitors every year, with sun-seeking Britons making up a sizeable proportion of its international arrivals. Recent data suggests that as many as 40% of all tourists to the island hail from the UK, drawn by the promise of year-round sunshine, picturesque beaches, and a vibrant, tourist-friendly culture. Yet, behind the scenes, the relationship between British tourists and the island’s hospitality industry is coming under increasing scrutiny, with rising food prices and the looming introduction of an ‘eco tax’ prompting discussion across social media platforms.
The local government in Tenerife recently unveiled plans to introduce an eco tax in 2026—a move designed to mitigate over-tourism while protecting the natural beauty of locations such as Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest peak. This legislative change comes amid mounting concerns about the strain large tourism numbers are placing on the environment. However, it is the cost of living that is currently at the forefront of many holidaymakers’ minds, as reports of rising prices for food and drinks are circulating widely.
Against this backdrop, one British expat, who has also become a well-followed travel commentator, has taken to social media to share his surprise at stumbling upon what he considers an unbeatable deal. In Los Cristianos—a well-known resort town on Tenerife’s southern coastline—the expat visited the eatery LA TASCA 7 and discovered a full English breakfast being served for just €4.60 (roughly £3.90).
The breakfast, which came served on a large plate, included two rashers of bacon, a pair of sausages, two buttered slices of toast, a fresh tomato, and two fried eggs. Notably, the dish was served without baked beans, the absence of which the diner attributed to personal preference. The meal was completed with the option of iconic HP brown sauce and a view of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, which seemed to particularly impress the expat.
Expressing his astonishment over the price, the expat remarked, “That’s the same as the cost of a pint in the UK, and here I am having a full English, in the sunshine, for the same money.” His light-hearted reaction included a playful query as to how the business managed to remain profitable while offering such low prices to customers.
The story garnered significant engagement online, with many British tourists sharing their own experiences of bargain breakfasts and drinks in Tenerife. One user wrote of their delight at finding similar value meals, stating, “Prices are good in Tenerife. I don’t know how people can say it’s expensive… A pint for €1.50 and a breakfast for €3—it’s brilliant.” Another person praised the affordability and atmosphere, recounting their enjoyment of people-watching on a sunny terrace after the local markets.
Nevertheless, there were contrasts in opinion. While many shared tales of affordable meals, some did raise sceptical voices, remarking that such low prices are not consistent across all of Spain. One commentator noted, “It used to be cheap for Brits. Not anymore,” while another highlighted, “Don’t expect those prices everywhere—Tenerife’s taxes are lower than on the Spanish mainland.”
Interestingly, the expat’s choice to opt for an English breakfast abroad ignited some friendly debate. A number of commenters questioned the practice, wondering aloud why someone would travel to Spain only to dine on classic British fare. Jokes abounded, with one user teasing, “You’re in Tenerife and eating English breakfast? Are you alright?” Another observed, “It always surprises me people go to an exotic country and order an English breakfast,” suggesting that embracing local cuisine is all part of the holiday experience.
The absence of baked beans—a staple of the traditional English breakfast—also became a talking point. Some defended the omission, while others insisted a ‘proper’ full English wouldn’t be complete without them, with one jesting, “Can’t trust anyone who doesn’t like beans, that’s just diabolical.”
As the holiday season approaches and economic pressures drive tourists to seek out the best value, the full English breakfast served against the backdrop of the Atlantic remains a captivating example of the island’s enduring appeal to Britons—combining both home comforts and the allure of the sun-soaked Spanish coast. For now, at least, such culinary bargains continue to offer a slice of familiarity at a price that leaves many British visitors pleasantly surprised.