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     | Visitors seeking 
shelter from the cold winter have long known about the sun-drenched Canary 
Islands. About 60 miles from the North African coast, Gran Canaria enjoys a 
mild, springlike climate year round. Of the seven islands in the small chain, 
Gran Canaria is the largest, and boasts Las Palmas as its capital. Golden 
beaches, some of which are very near the city, offer a serene contrast to the 
lush and rugged interior terrain. For a real treat, admire the fine beaches from 
the top of Bandama, one of Gran Canaria's extinct volcanoes. | 
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