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ASTOUNDING STAY at FUENGIROLA 

FUENGIROLA is located in the middle of Marbella and Malaga, about 15 minutes’ drive from Malaga airport on the West. It is nearby to Benalmadena and Torremolinos, towns along the coastal highway, Costa del Sol. This town is right at the scenic Sierra de Mijas foothills with the best microclimate in Costa and the Spanish mainland.
 
Tourism Domination

The ever-growing demands of tourism have brought drastic changes to this town in terms of its property structure and development. However, its sandy and beautiful beaches have been very well maintained to the tourists’ delight. Its 8 km of enticing beaches make this town Europe and Spain’s favorite holiday resort.

There are cafes, restaurants and bars lined along the town’s renovated promenade close to its windy beaches of clean sand, with plenty of water sports such as sailing, fishing, pedalos, windsurfing, and diving expeditions.

Although Fuengirola may be a small town, it is quite close to other towns which allow a visitor more than one sight for a holiday.

Local Highlights

Quality golf courses are abundant here in a 30 km radius for the avid golfer. The huge Aquapark at the outskirts of town will cool you during the hot summer, although it is limited to certain months of the year, namely from April to September. The local zoo is just 10 minutes away from the town center which underwent a complete refurbishment in 2001.

There are many short day trips around this region, such as the Arabic castle of Sohail at the seafront, the Roman Baths near the train station, the town’s bullring, and the harbor.

The picturesque Mijas village will give a spectacular view of the town and region via a walk. This ancient village is located near the Sierra de Mijas hills.

Gastronomy

There is such a wide selection of foods here in Fuengierola that one is spoiled for choice; from fast western foods like Burger King, to the local cuisine (Tapas Bars), and even Asian fare. One will not be disappointed with the cuisine here.

Nearer the sea front is an area where the food selection is as varied as is the price. This place is called the Fish Alley by the locals.

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Enchanting GALICIA in the North West of Spain

Galicia is Spain’s”land of the 1,000 rivers” which wind all over the mountains to the coast forming the”Rias”. This region is simply the most picturesque areas in Spain with a cooler climate for vegetation, and numerous charming villages that are comparable to Ireland’s hamlets.

Santiago de Compostela is Galicia’s capital comprising four modern provinces; namely Lugo, A Coruña, Pontevedra, and Ourense, including Ferrol and Vigo cities. Although the population is distributed all over, it stands at about 3million people, mainly at the coastal regions. That’s abot100 people for every square kilometer, which is more than other Spanish regions on average.

Offerings of Galicia

The climate is great whether it is summer or spring. The spectacular coastline has picturesque villages alongside small charming harbors, orchards, and lush meadows abound to give that idyllic atmosphere. It’s always a pleasure to drive along the coastline and countryside with spectacular sceneries all over the province.

Natural Beauty

There is a diverse offering of natural beauty here when it comes to the coast and beaches. On the one hand, award winning beaches here are considered to be Spain’s best offering of fine sand and sea, natural beauty, and cleanliness. In contrast the dangerously high cliffs at the coastal areas are named”coasts of death” have cost many fishermen their lives as they seek out Spain’s best seafood delicacy”Perecebes.” Not only does a fisherman require a lot of oxygen to dive deep for this delicacy, the rocks and punishing waves prove to be quite a challenge to overcome.

Highlights of Sights

The Santiago cathedral is where the faithful pilgrims converge from France at the annual pilgrimage walk. This religious and spectacular event attracts crowds by the thousands, all for different reasons. Its structure is a masterpiece of Baroque style giving an aura of magic with the layout of stones and winding roads all around the old quarter.

Here in Coruña city, you will see the oldest lighthouse that has been functioning since days of old. This was back in the Roman period where it witnessed every ship entering its bay and every wreckage that occurred over the centuries. It is also one of the significant fishing ports for Europe.

Galicia’s prettiest town is O’Grove at the center of the Rias Baixas region. It is 25 km away from Pontevedra on the west.  O’Grove is another quaint and attractive fishing village facing the mainland, and protected from the Atlantic Ocean tides and waves.

Visitors are warmly received with the splendid selection of restaurants and bars for all budgets and taste buds; the common love of this place is the fresh seafood that is abundant here. It is clear that there is absolutely no complaint.

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Places for tourists in Spain –Impressive Ronda
 

Ronda is situated at the edge of a canyon measuring 120 meters deep and 70 meters wide, right in the midst of the Seranía de Ronda mountain range. Although it has only 40,000 inhabitants, no one regrets over the 60 km distance from Marbella to this incredible place in the whole of Spain.

Ronda is a surprising town famous for its splendid bridge and stone bull ring with Moorish buildings. Its central square is big and lively with delectable cuisine from the mountain ranges nearby.

Renowned writers have been inspired by this splendid town with its varied civilizations as history base, which Ronda has been careful to preserve the legacy.

The Different Epochs of Ronda

Ronda is very famous for its varied epochs which form its history from the Romans, Moors, and the Christian Reconquest. There have been a few pre-historical discoveries around Ronda like the historical ”Dolmen de Chopo” tomb, as well as the wall painted Pileta cave which displays some insights of the civilization that existed back then.

The Roman-based Acinipo is a well-maintained amphitheater that is noteworthy for a feel of the medieval time.

The Moors called Ronda ”Izn-Rand Onda” while it was a more significant town during the Mussulman era which accounts for the existing Arabian bathes, Puente Viejo bridge, as well as two palaces: the ”Casa de Mondragón” and the ”Casa del Gigante” which is also known as the Giant’s House. Another miniature palace here exhibits the Nazarian architecture with stone relics of a giant, implicating Phoenician origins.

There stands the collegiate of ‘Santa Maria la Mayor’ which was built over the site of a Moorish mosque.

Sightseeing in Ronda

There is always plenty to explore around Ronda, with the Puente Nuevo bridge topping the must-see list. This bridge spans over the Tajo River at about 100 m looking like an ancient Roman aqueduct, but it was really built by an architect called José Martin during the 18th century.

Ronda's Toros Plaza is a must- see as its original bull ring was totally built from stones in 1784 by Jose Martin also. Its style is very neoclassical and solid, which is very appropriate for such activities. Pedro Romero who was Spain’s legendary bullfighter also founded the famed bullfighting school”Escuela Rondeña” competing with another Sevillanian counterpart who was established earlier.

Ronda’s bullfight ring, the Real Maestranza, is the oldest in Spain that can hold 5,000 spectators. It has a main entrance made of stone with 2 levels of seating and 68 arches. The bull ring arena measures up to 66 m across to claim the title of being the largest in Spain.

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THE OTHER FACE OF MAJORCA   

Holidays in Majorca

Tourists from all over the world choose Majorca as a holiday destination every year. Majorca is generally seen as a destination where you can only relax on the beach and bathe in the warm, clear waters. But Majorca is more than that. Few know the other face of the island. Few know that there is the possibility to do other things, that the island is not just a place where you can entertain yourself by going into nightclubs and bars. Majorca is a place where culture, tradition, and customs are playing an important role in its life; the life of the island. If you wonder what else describes Majorca, here are just a few of its special places.

Museums in Majorca

You can start your holiday by visiting the Palau March Museum. This is the place where tourists can admire contemporary sculptures, as well as old books. The Pollentia Monographic Museum is special because it is dedicated to only one thing: an ancient Roman city. Majorca also has a museum dedicated to its history: The Majorca Museum. Here you will find out everything you want to know about the history of the island. The Spanish Contemporary Art Museum is perfect for those who love avant garde art. It hosts pieces created by artists who represent the early avant garde period, such as Pablo Picasso or Salvador Dali. For those who love nature, the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences and Botanical Garden might seem like paradise. This is the departure point for your journey into the flora and fauna of the Balearic Islands.

Monuments in Majorca

The museums in Majorca are impressive, but so are the monuments that are spread all over the island. La Almudaina Royal Palace, is the former residence of King Jaime II. It is an excellent example of Moorish architecture, as the construction of the monument ended in 1281. The Palma Market is a civil building that will take your breath away through its aspect. The building has a rectangular base, but the special thing about it is the fact that its interior is formed out of a roof which has an ogive dome sustained by columns.

Accommodation in Majorca

Do you really want to enjoy your holiday? Then choose a villa for accommodations. Villas in Majorca are decorated in a very pure traditional style and offer wonderful conditions. They are spread all over the island, just choose the one that you like the best. However, it is going to be a difficult choice: they are all very beautiful.

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Places for tourists in Spain –Tourism in Spain

Over the years, Spain has been a favorite country for thousands of tourists who want to explore and enjoy what nature handed the country. The natural attractions of this country include beaches, islands, mountains, beautiful valleys, and landscapes that are magnificent. This country has two coast sides: the Atlantic side, and the Mediterranean side. This contributes highly to why most people make this country their choice for holidays.

This holiday destination has a lot to offer to its visitors and locals as well. Besides the natural richness, it has monuments and museums that hold the country’s important historical periods that have been preserved here. This aspect makes Spain both relaxing and a learning ground for everybody who visits. Most locals depend on tourism to support themselves, and tourism contributes to the economic growth.

Madrid is the capital of Spain and is located at the heart of the country. The fact that it is the country’s capital makes it attractive to tourists as well as Spaniards themselves. The prospects of employment are high and the cost of living is generally affordable. This has seen to the increase in population in the city, considering that there are tourists and foreigners who after visiting the city decide to make it their home.

Apart from Madrid being more affordable to live in than most European capitals, it has some of the world’s best art galleries and museums. It also has parks, exhibition halls, leisure centers, and theatres. This makes holidays so much fun as there will never be an idle moment for the entire time where you won’t have something to do, or something to see.

Tourism plays a major role in this city as thousands of tourists come here all year-round to behold what it has to offer, as well as to bask in the sunny, sandy beaches of Spain. The beaches are a major attraction especially because you can experience differing climates on the Mediterranean or Atlantic coasts. Medical and educational facilities here are of high quality, and are available affordably to everyone.

Tourists who have chosen Spain as their perfect holiday destination should be aware of the probability of them being impressed enough to consider staying there for the rest of their lives. The natural richness lures many people to never return to their homelands, choosing instead to live here. Visiting the country for a few weeks will highly determine what you decide.

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 Places for tourists in Spain –Idyllic Costa Almeria

The Costa Almeria is situated southeast of the peninsular of Iberia with the Mediterranean waters rushing onto its 322 kilometers of rugged and serene coastline, guarding its fine beaches and clean waters. This site is one of Spain’s best coastlines of fine sand along the Mediterranean.

Overview

Costa Almeria is part of the Costa Almeria province, which is very unique in its landscape of barren wastelands against its idyllic coast. It is a favored spot for tourists looking for serene beaches, history, charming fishing ports and the hustle and bustle of modernism. But this place also offers nature’s best with its unspoiled beauty for those who are nature lovers.

Almeria is the capital of Costa Almeria, which is very historical. Tourists are attracted to the various commercialized spots such as the towns of Almeria, El Ejido and Roquetas del Mar, but there are also serene and charming coastal spots like the Mojacar, Garrucha, Vera, Turre and Bedar mountain villages. More and more tourists are flocking to enjoy these picturesque sights and cultures.

East of Almeria spans the natural Cabo de Gata Park, which lines the coastline with its natural wonders of fauna and flora. Though the park does not have many inhabitants - mainly village fishermen - this area has been growing in popularity for its nature walks over beaches and coves along the coast.

The town, Cabo de Gata, is serene and quite unimpressive, so one might want to go to other livelier tourist towns like San Jose, La Isleta or Los Escullos to the north, to enjoy more intriguing coves and clean beaches.

Mojacar

This has to be the best tourist spot in Costa Almeria as attested by its popularity. Its spectacular location in the Sierra Cabrera Mountains makes it unrivalled in its natural beauty, attracting many tourists of various types, such as painters, artists, photographers and poets, besides the obvious holiday makers.

This Arabic looking town was once a Moorish fortress settlement and is now filled with a labyrinth of narrow alleys and concealed corners complete with charming bars and quaint tourist shops. It is said that Walt Disney was sired right here in Mojacar before he migrated to the US.

Vera

This northern town has long stretches of sandy serene beaches that welcome nudist sunbathers, as this place is growing more popular with nature lovers.

Roquetas del Mar

This is considered one of Costa Almeria’s best tourist spots. It plays a significant role as the area’s fishing village with natural parks and well-known offerings of cuisine. Its best local specialty is the lobster and pasta selections, which are definite local favorites, besides the fresh fried fish.

This tourist spot, only a 15-minute drive from the capital, Almeria, is classified as a National Tourist Interest center; one can enjoy the annual festivities held here.

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Worthy Sights at Costa Calida 

COSTA CALIDA means ‘warm coast’, and refers to the region lying southeast of the Iberian peninsula, with Costa Blanca to the north and Costa Almeria to the south. It is about 40 kilometers east of Murcia with an enviable climate plus lovely beaches. It is a growing tourist spot as well as the locals’ favorite choice for a delightful holiday.

Here at Costa Calida you will be immensely satisfied with 250 kilometers of fine beaches, whether it is the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, romantic coves or crystal blue waters that you prefer. This place is guaranteed to give a true coastal holiday maker some real satisfaction. 

Its growing popularity for golfing stems from the amazing presence of La Manga Golf Resort, which has three championship quality courses coupled with bright beautiful sunshine throughout most of the year. 

Tourist Attractions

A special natural spectacular wonder is the Mar Menor, which is a large lagoon of salt water formed naturally due to its unique geographical positioning that sectioned off the Mediterranean Sea. With complete protection from the rough waves of the Mediterranean, this strip of beautiful coastline allows many varieties of water sports to be enjoyed here in the lagoon’s calm waters.

There are a few tourist spots that are growing in popularity along this coastal strip, such as Puerto de Mazarron, Cartagena and Aguilas.

Puerto de Mazarrón

As with most tourist spots, Puerto de Mazarrón functions as a lively resort town by the sea offering excellent accommodation facilities and a great and active nightlife. This seaside offers one of the best unspoiled coastline beaches in this region. It started off as a fishing village and has kept growing in its fishing industry to become important and vital to the town’s local economy. One of the interesting events in this fishing village is the auctioning of the day’s catch, truly a spectacular sight and experience, although one has to be up at dawn to catch the festive commotion.

The true beauty of this bay area is the surrounding Sierras Moreras mountain range, as well as the Almenara Mountains that create the ideal climate of sun and fun throughout the year.

The coastal town attractions include impressive structural buildings such as the ruins of a castle, the Velez Castle, the town hall and some churches.

Aguilas


This charming town is a quaint ancient fishing port of Roman origin that lies southwest of Mazarron as you travel along the coastline.

Here you can visit the famed gardens of Plaza España, San Jose Church, an amazingly ornate Town Hall, a 1579 castle and an ancient harbor. These are really worthy sights to visit.

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INTRIGUING DISCOVERIES at MOJACAR 

Mojacar is a very picturesque section of Costa Calida that is very calm, without much change over the years despite some big developments around it. It is situated in Almeria province at the south east side, enjoying great protection from the Cabrera Mountains; it is one of Spain’s ancient villages begging for discovery. Its old quarters, Mojacar Pueblo, are 2 kilometers away from Mojacar Playa beach situated precariously on a rocky hillside offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean sea, countryside and mountains.

History

Mojacar’s history stretches as far back as 4000 years. The various civilizations that visited it include Phoenicians, Romans, Carthaginians, Moors and Greeks; this accounts for its multi-cultural influences still existing today.

Mojacar flourished only during Moorish rule when the town walls were enlarged and made stronger with the construction of the castle, although Mojacar suffered much bloodshed before that. When Mojacar’s population declined in the mid 19th century, it did not fare well economically as severe droughts raged relentlessly and it was located in the midst of desert land. When the poor economy continued, Mojacar was offered for sale in the 1960s with the hope of a revival. This offer attracted many artists who captured Mojacar’s natural beauty on canvases which, in turn, attracted tourists who brought in foreign investment that revived the town.

Attractions

Mojacar’s beach is the main point of attraction with many wealthy overseas expatriates relocating here in the past 30 years. It is said that Mojacar is the birthplace of the legendary Walt Disney; the interesting folklore relates that he was an illegitimate son born to a local washerwoman who went off to America because of the stigma, but gave him up for adoption; the adopting parents were none other than Elias and Flora Disney. The rest is history.

There are no official records to prove or disprove this folklore, especially since the Mojacar archives were destroyed in Spain’s Civil War.

Mojacar’s iconic symbol is a cave called the Indalo where prehistoric drawings were found close to Velez Blanco. These drawings show a male figurine lifting a rainbow above his head, which the locals symbolize as good luck, making it a popular icon everywhere in Mojacar.

For those who love an interesting discovery, especially at every turn, Mojacar will hold enough charms for you as it has an intriguing network of cobbled streets that wind their way around the town.

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SCENIC PALMA at MALLORCA 

Palma was appointed the capital of the Balearic Islands in 1983 when the islands were newly formed as another of Spain’s autonomous regions. Since then, there is no turning back for Palma as it continues developing as a cosmopolitan favorite for its 325,000 inhabitants, and indulges in commercialism to boost its wealth and fame.

Scenic Location

It is easy to get to Palma as it is located just 11 kilometers away from Mallorca's truly modern international airport. The local bus proves to be the cheapest mode of transport to Palma, although there are taxi services at the airport. Another option is to try the ferry services which are connected to the local bus plying the route to the city.

There is a municipal office that provides sufficient information on the city and the island with free town maps and accommodation lists, as well as more information on local modes of transportation. Leaflets showing places of attraction are also available here for the tourists’ convenience.

Attractions in town

Palma is stunning and impressive with its vibrancy as an urban city of festive shopping alongside its refurbished ancient buildings that are surrounded by its equally ancient city walls. Its location away from the sea sets it apart from other tourist enclaves and its harbor plays a significant role in the city’s economic status. The harbor is also set apart by the leading highway, but one can also arrive in beautiful Palma by sea.

Here you will see most of the spectacular cathedral standing tall above the old quarter and the medieval wall remnants. This is where the bulk of the city’s history lies, from the 9th century Moorish influence to the Re-Conquest in the 13th century along with its astounding rise to wealth and fame since it functioned as the major port of call in the 15th century between Africa and Europe.

It is easy to get around Palma from its town center with the La Seu cathedral as the main landmark. It is so huge that it is very prominent on the waterfront and is the most ancient part of the city. There are zigzagging alleys which move down to the seafront before forming busy thoroughfares to the modern town centre.


Available Accommodation  

There is a really luxurious hotel for those who want the best-of-the-best stay located in the exclusive Bonanova residential area. It offers beautifully landscaped gardens with a wide selection of facilities, such as the best spa in Palma de Mallorca. This classy hotel may be quite hidden from the crowd, but it is very well equipped with the necessary technology for communication for its guests’ comfort and enjoyment. It offers spectacular sea views from its impressive air conditioned balcony.

There are other top quality hotels in Palma that have been refurbished in stylish Majorcan design from former 13th century buildings or one that is uniquely styled like a boutique. All hotels have excellent facilities and amenities for the guests’ comfort and convenience and they are located near the town’s interesting sights and seafront.

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The AMAZING AND FUN-FILLED Costa Blanca 

The name COSTA BLANCA is also well known as ‘the White Coast’, one of Spain’s top tourist spots in the Alicante province of the Valencia autonomous region.

This place has grown so popular that its promotional name, COSTA BLANCA, is now synonymous with its reputation as a preferred holiday haven with its 200 kilometers of coastline.

There is plenty to offer the visitor at Costa Blanca where seaside resorts line the southeast of this Iberian peninsula. Every visitor or local will find something that is suitable to their idea of the perfect holiday with its wide range of attractions from beautiful sandy stretches, tranquil villages in whitewash, vibrant nightlife, theme parks, world famous attractions and accommodation to suit every taste and budget.

The Main Attraction

Thousands and thousands of tourists flock to this region every year. The coastline has been re-developed to cater to the increasing influx of visitors so as to ensure a healthy tourism industry. Costa Blanca is a very lively and vibrant tourist spot with hardly any quiet places for serenity. The attractive climate of this region makes it a holiday haven for the whole year with temperatures between 16 and 32 degrees and sunshine almost every day.

Tourism peaks in summer with a temperature of 40 degrees, while the sea is perfect at 25 degrees. There are many who come outside the summer months to avoid the crowd, as well as the hot summer sun. Golf enthusiasts love this place, which offers many 18-hole courses, while the British bowling clubs are increasing in popularity with the locals as well as visitors.

Other Tourist Spots

There are many lovely popular tourist spots outside the Costa Blanca, such as Javea, Gandia and Denia, as well as Torrevieja in the south. Though smaller in size, Moraira, Calpe and Altea are growing in popularity as Spain’s preferred resorts.

Another town, Benidorm, attracts close to 5 million tourists annually, both local and foreign, with a British majority. In the 1960s, this sleepy fishing town was not very lively, but now there are quite a number of skyscrapers here; it is a match for even London or Milan.

There are a wide range of holiday attractions for every age group here in Benidorm, which boasts of three blue flag beaches, live entertainment, plentiful bars, discos and restaurants and theme parks that can be reached from the Alicante airport.

Getting to Costa Blanca

It is very easy to get to the Costa Blanca today with online bookings such as Lowcostholidays.com, one of the major travel companies offering great value holidays in Costa Blanca. Accommodations are decently priced from budget to luxurious options. There is so much Benidorm can offer for a great holiday that you will have to try it to believe it yourself.

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QUAINT TOWNS of JAVEA and MORAIRA 

GREAT FUN TIMES at Costa de la Luz

EXPLORING the CHARMING TOWNS OF El Arenal and El Hornillo

UNIQUELY TROGLODYTIC GUADIX  

BOUNTIFUL CHOICES in CIUTADELLA

Have a great holiday in San Antonio

Why San Antonio?

While travelling in San Antonio, it is better to know which hotel you should get - in order to be close to the night activities here and have quite moments at the same time, you should try Bellamar hotel. It is placed in Bahia district and believed to be a 4* hotel. A room in Bellamar hotel has a great view, TV, telephone and security system. Having spacious and modern rooms at the hotel and everything else one needs for a vacation, you will spend a memorable time in San Antonio; the whole complex of the hotel has various attractions such as a clean swimming pool, restaurants and fitness centres.

How should you spend your time while in San Antonio?

The beaches in San Antonio are great; the sand is clean and the water has an amazing blue colour and if you choose Bellamar hotel, you will be very close to all these. Furthermore, while staying at this hotel you are also close to the more famous bars and restaurants in the resort. Although the schedule of the buses in San Antonio is a good one, this proximity to the night life may be an advantage. The night activities in San Antonio are various and complex; many tourists say that they did not see much of the daylight as they were concerned with the night life. Spend your evenings visiting the local restaurants with traditional dishes or try to enter every club of the resort. Their complexity will amaze you and fun is guaranteed. In Cala Llonga near San Antonio, you can find a horse riding ranch. It is a relaxing activity after a crazy night.

Fun, fun, fun

As every holiday also means a lot of fun, you should go and have a unique and relaxing day in one of the two water parks here. The one placed in Playa del Bossa is closer to the Bellamar hotel; there are a lot of different types of amusements so you can spend an entire day here and you will not get bored. Do not worry about your bags and stuff as there is a special place for these; if you decide to spend the whole day here, try one of the fast foods - the snacks are very good but do not eat too much as you need energy for the water fun. The water sports are also highly recommended while in San Antonio, so fully enjoy them.

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Primary Tourist Information About Costa del Sol 

Costa del Sol has an 80-mile long coastline that is dotted with pristine beaches. Apart from the great beaches, tourists also visit this famous tourist destination for its world class golf courses and beautiful marinas. The weather is pleasant for most part of the year so tourists can enjoy the perfect climate in Costa del Sol any time of the year. Among the famous resorts in the region are the Marbella and Puerto Banus for the upscale crowd, the Fuengirola and Benalmadena for families on vacation and the most popular among them all -the Torremolinos.

History of Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol used to encompass the entire coast of Almeria down to the coast of Cadiz but at present it only covers a short portion of the region of Malaga. In the late 1950s, Prince Alfonso Von Hohenlohe created the Marbella Club and soon after that tourists started pouring into Costa del Sol. The Marbella Club is an upscale resort that was visited by famous people like Gina Lollobrigida, the Duke of Windsor and Sophia Loren. Also during that time, the luxury hotel Pez Espada was opened in the small fishing village of Torremolinos. More hotels and resorts opened in Costa del Sol over the years as more tourists began to discover the beauty of the place.

Tourism Decline

In the 1980s Costa del Sol experienced a decline in its tourism as the influx of tourists began to decrease. The local council of Costa del Sol funded the construction of new yacht clubs, golf clubs and beach esplanades to bring back the tourists. The beaches were also cleaned and brought back to their once pristine condition.

The Town of Nerja

Nerja is a charming resort town located 30 miles off the eastern part of Malaga. Located near the town are the Nerja Caves which were discovered in the 1950s and are presently considered to be one of the best tourist destinations in Costa del Sol.

Nearby Towns

Costa del Sol has three nearby towns namely Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Torremolinos. Tourists visit Benalmadena to see the Tivoli World and the town’s famous marina.

Fuengirola Town

The town of Fuengirola has a lot of attractions nearby like the small town of Mijas Pueblo that is visited by tourists for its unusual square bullring as well as its folk museum. The vistas overlooking the coast in Mijas Pueblo are simply breathtaking. Just a little further up the coast of Fuengirola is the famous Marbella resort. In the heart of the Marbella resort are several old white villas as well as a beautiful plaza called Casco Antiguo. The resort also boasts of fashionable boutiques and great restaurants. Near the Marbella resort is Puerto Banus, an upscale yacht marina filled with modern yachts, boutiques and bars.

Estepona Town

The town of Estepona is located west of the Marbella resort. This charming town has preserved its authentic Spanish feel. Located in the resort town is the beautiful church on the Plaza del Reloj. The town is famous for its pristine beaches and excellent fishing harbor.

Getting In and Around Costa del Sol

Tourists from other parts of the world usually pass through the city of Malaga which is the biggest city in Costa del Sol as well as its international point of entry. Budget airlines like the RyanAir, Monarch and the EasyJet usually have flights heading to the Malaga airport. Costa del Sol also has a reliable coastal railway system that connects it to the towns of Fuengirola, Torremolinos and Benalmadena.

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VOLCANOES AND OTHER WONDERFUL PLACES IN OLOT

Garrotxa is a county in Girona; it is one of the most interesting cities in the northern region of Spain, called Catalunia. In 1985, Garroxta became a protected natural park, and the housing conditions transformed it into one of the most popular weekend destinations for those who like to walk a lot; so, it is better to avoid it on Sundays. The departure point  is Olot where you are within walking distance from the  beech forests of Jorda. These forests and other nice places may transform your holiday into a lovely one.

What is it famous for?

In Olot you can admire the most important and wonderful volcanic landscapes in Spain. It is, in some ways, illusory. During the last eruption, about 10 000 years ago, the 120 square kilometers of valleys, plateaus, rivers and volcanoes were transformed into  a well-irrigated farmland and pastures. Craters can be seen best from the top of the volcanoes and the valley walls reveal spectacular basalt layers, created by torrents of lava. Next to the beech forests of Jorda  are the Croscat and Santa Margarita volcanoes. You can reach the latter via a very vertical path; an abbey is housed under the crater. Croscat, dating back over 17 000 years, can be reached via a less tiring path, passing portions of fissured rock and lava blocks. The forest in Garroxta provides shelter for martens, badgers , wild boars and about 143 bird species. There are also three amazing villages: Castellofollit de la Roca is perched on a wall of 60 metres, made of prisms and layers of basalt eroded by lava, next to the Flavia River.

Go to the east to explore Besalu, an amazing medieval village where a unique Roman bridge and four churches stand in front of a Jewish district. In Santa Pau, walk through cobbled streets toward the main square flanked by Gothic arches, where a cattle market was once held. Dominating the whole village,a castle that was built in the XIth century and belonged to a baron rises; initially it was a Dominican monastery.

Why choose Garroxta for your holiday?

Although it is a region known for its volcanoes, there are also other places, either historical or modern, to visit while in Girona, or more exactly in Garroxta.  Enjoy your stay here and spend a lovely time admiring the beauty of Spain!

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Enjoy a piece of desert in Almeria

About Almeria, a small part of Andalucía

Andalucía, a small part of Spain, is a territory famous for its high temperatures and the hot climate. These are the reasons why most of its land became sand; Almeria, a coast in Andalucía, seems to be a small part of a desert.  Although it had some problems in the past because of earthquakes, Almeria is now a great holiday destination, it is relaxing and amazing. With beautiful landscapes, it is visited by many tourists every year.

The Old Town and its historical monuments

As many people are attracted by old things, the Old Town in Almeria is its main attraction. Represented by Rambla de Belen, the old town includes many historical monuments. A large number of cathedrals, fortifications and mosques dominate the area. In the most important cathedral over here, dating since the 16th century, you can admire many beautiful paintings and even Murillo’s famous painting, “The Immaculate conception”. In the northern part of the cathedral you will find a monument dedicated to the Spanish liberals and in the eastern part of it is the oldest house in Almeria, Casa de los Puche. The Santiago church over here and the Olive Oil Museum are two of the other important attractions of this old part of Almeria - pay attention to details and admire them as they all have many centuries that have worked upon them.

Alcazaba and its beauties

Alcazaba is the other attraction worth mentioning in Almeria. This place is very famous and popular for the Moorish details, including the characteristics of Moorish architecture. The Tower of Homage and the Gunpower Tower are two other very important monuments that should be visited. They offer a beautiful panorama and the two towers have been declared historical monuments.

Nightlife in Almeria

This part of Spain is famous for its nightclubs and restaurants. In the neighbourhood of Paseo de Almeria you can taste the famous Spanish tapas in the tapas bars ; if you are not a fan of them, try other local specialities such as Escabeche e Sardines or Trigo.

How can I get there?

There are different routes that can lead you to Almeria. Inform yourself before going on your holiday and choose the most appropriate one for your taste. Make sure that you do not forget the sun block, summer clothes and a lot of good mood and spend a beautiful holiday in the desert of Almeria.

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Tourist Information About The City Of Salamanca

Salamanca is located nearly 125 miles from the western part of Madrid, right along the Castilla y Leon region. The city of Salamanca is known for its old university and historic sites like cathedrals, churches and castles. The city is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage site and was also declared as the European Capital of Culture.

History of Salamanca

Salamanca became known all over the world as a capital for learning after King Alfonso IX established the city’s first university. In the 16th century, Isabella and Ferdinand funded the construction of architectural masterpieces like the cathedral. During the Napoleonic Wars, Salamanca was seized by the French army but the city was later reclaimed by the Duke of Wellington in the Battle of Salamanca. At present, the university is no longer considered to be the best in Spain but the city still gets visitors due to its many great tourist attractions.

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor said to be the most magnificent square in Spain is also the heart of Salamanca. Surrounding the square are quaint cafes and the beautiful town hall. Just a short walk from the square is the Casa de las Conchas or the House of Shells which is a villa built in the 14th century. The stone façade of the villa is carved entirely with shells to pay homage to the historic Santiago de Compostela. Near the villa is the La Clerecia, a 17th century church with two magnificent spires.

The Old and the New Cathedral

The old cathedral of Salamanca is called the Catedral Vieja and was built in the 12th century. It has a simple Romanesque design which is the exact opposite of the new cathedral’s design. Frescoes were added in the Capilla de San Martin during the 13th century. In 1513, the construction of the new cathedral called the Catedral Nueva was started and it was completed almost 200 years later. It has an elaborate design with Baroque and Gothic inspirations. The new cathedral is famous for its impressive dome and carvings that depict the life of Jesus Christ.

Salamanca University

The famous Salamanca University is where the statue of Fray Luis de Leon can be found, specifically in the Patio de Escuelas. De Leon was imprisoned during the time of the Spanish inquisition. Near the university is the historic San Esteban Church which has a beautifully carved façade. The university has quite a few famous alumni like Hernan Cortes and Miguel de Cervantes.

Museums

The Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum in Salamanca has a wide collection of more than 1,500 paintings, antique furniture, ancient jewelry and porcelain dolls. Pieces created by Lalique, a world renowned glassmaker, are also displayed in the museum.

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Places for tourists in Spain –VISITING AGAETE

Wondering in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are grouped in the Atlantic Ocean, 1ooo kilometres south of Spain and just 115 kilometres from the African Coast. These robust, volcanic, Spanish islands have proved to be the most popular holiday destination for north Europeans and if you are a tourist with just a little bit of initiative, you will find here an endless oasis of amazing beauty and an ideal territory for hiking. Gran Canaria is the most populated island, due to the 50 kilometres of beaches and the incredibly varied landscapes. It is in Gran Canaria where you will find Agaete.

Agaete and Its Surprises

Agaete is a very tranquil town located on a very steep rock on the coastline of Gran Canaria and to be more exact, on its north-western coastline. There is a special flavour when it comes to Agaete: people come here attracted by the beauty of the landscape, as Agaete is surrounded by terraces cultivated with banana, papayas, oranges, which grow well in the tropical climate. Tourists also go to Agaete because it offers the possibility of enjoying the sun and the wonderful beaches in a place which is not crowded at all. Most of the tourists prefer choosing the more famous resorts in Gran Canaria. The town has a few attractions which give it the typical Spanish look: the Nuestra Senora de la Conception, dating back to the 19th century is situated in the centre of the historical quarter; the church attracts the eyes with its red dome. The botanical gardens where it is thought that the great poet Tomas Morales wrote some of his works are also an important attraction of the city; hosting the great majority of the c
ultural events in town, the gardens represent a central point of the town’s life.

Other Activities

If you are bored with visiting the townhouses and the narrow, winding streets, you can go to Reptilandia Park, which is just a few kilometres away from Agaete; you’ll find here some of the most exotic and unusual reptile species. A short trip to Puerto de la Nieves is also a very relaxing activity; a ferry will take you there in about 60 minutes, so you can relax and enjoy the view. Last but not least, participate in one of the fiestas or in one of the carnivals that take part in Agaete; the town is very renowned for having its own tradition in organizing this kind of events aimed to entertain. You will find more about the culture and the traditions of the Spaniards if you attend such an event. Have a nice holiday!

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THE PERFECT DAY TRIP

Relaxing in sunny Spain

Spain is one of the most visited countries not only in Europe, but in the whole world. A famous destination in Spain is Costa Blanca; why is it so special? It is special because Costa Blanca is the place where you find a little bit of everything: sun, white and delicate beaches, amusement parks, modern cities, picturesque villages, scenic landscapes. This is a place where you can spend a perfect holiday. The region of Alicante, the region that hosts Costa Blanca, is also famous for its unique cuisine and festivals: the Bonfire of Saint John and Moros i Cristians are two of the most famous ones. But there is something really unique about Alicante and Costa Blanca: there are a few very intimate places here where you can spend a perfect day trip with your friends and family, far away from the hustle and the bustle of the great cities in remote but very tranquil and peaceful places. One of these places is Tabarca.

Everything about Tabarca

Tabarca is a small island situated just 13 kilometres away from Alicante and a couple of kilometres away from Santa Pola. Tabarca Island is very accessible by boat. The boat trip will be no longer than half an hour and if you have children, you do not need to worry as the boat is very long and it has a glass bottom, they can spend their time enjoying the marine life below. The glass bottom is a very nice element and some tourists choose to have a trip to the Tabarca Island only because they have the opportunity to watch a very coloured show at their feet.  At your arrival on the island, you will discover the fact that it is not a very big one. It does not have any buildings except for a restaurant, which by the way, is not the best one you have ever tried; it would be a nice idea to have a picnic when you visit the island, so prepare a few things from home. The rocky island has a lot of small beaches that you can occupy throughout the day without anyone bothering you, so this is the reason why you should choose Tabarca for a day trip: it is the place where you can spend relaxing time just in the company of your dear ones. The alternative for a crowded modern swimming pool, Tabarca is waiting for you to spend a day in a natural and healthy environment. 

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Calpe, a great vacation destination

Where can you find it?

Calpe is a coastal town in Spain which has many holiday resorts in its structure. Costa Blanca is one of the most famous resorts, popular for its fine sands and the amazing restaurants; the most important attraction in Costa Blanca is the rock of Pennon de Ifach, the one which receives millions of tourists annually. If you try to know more about Calpe, you will find out that it had a great financial statute but with the passing of time, it slowly lost it; it seems that the pirates invaded the area many times so the people here tried to improve their defence. This is how the present Calpe was born.

Historical monuments

In the old town of Calpe, historical monuments can be found in every corner: the museum of Archaeology, the old Roman fortresses and the churches from the 15th century are a great history lesson for every tourist. Admire some old costumes in the Festival Museum if you are a lover of antique things. The most popular carnival here takes place in September, which is a traditional Moorish and Roman carnival; they were the ones who started it and the present population tries to keep it alive.

Pennon de Ifach

One of the most popular monuments in Costa Blanca is definitely this old rock; if you want to nourish your eyes with a magnificent panorama, try to reach its top. This place has been declared both historical and nature reserve, so it is worth visiting. If you are lucky, you can find a very rare species of orchid which grows only here. The Pennon de Ifach has been very important from the beginning as it is very rich: many old coins and other valuable things were found here. Beside this famous rock, El Raco and Del Panyo are also rocks that deserve being mentioned.

Enjoy your time in Calpe

You will not get bored while visiting Calpe as there are many things to do here: if you like water and everything related to it, go and see the port, the yachts and the large number of fish species. If you do not feel like admiring the marine wealth, enjoy the beaches. The water is very clean and when combined with the fine sands, you have a relaxing trip guaranteed. There are many resorts and beaches here, so you can choose the most appropriate one for your tastes. 

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A GOOD TRAVEL BASE in SAN ROQUE & LA LINEA

This interesting town of San Roque is located 35 kilometers away from Estepona. which is in the province of Cádiz.

History

SAN ROQUE was established by the Gibraltarians who fled from the British, who captured Gibraltar and looted their belongings in 1704. They had wanted to return after some months when the British troops conquered under the banner of Austria’s Archduke Carlos, which the British supported during the Spanish Succession war. But the Gibraltarians remained in San Roque while the British flag still flies in Gibraltar.

There is a Spanish-British border that is 8 kilometers away at a town called La Linea, where its gates were opened again after 16 years of closure due to the Spanish order. Now, there are frequent crossings between the two regions with some immigration procedures, except for the times when diplomatic relations are a bit strained. This is where the Spanish authorities will operated at a slower pace to the annoyance of the Rock residents.

Accommodations

In the center of La Línea stands a big and modern plaza that is seemingly unimpressive; but it houses, the turismo, offers useful maps of the town, hostel information, as well as information about the bus stations in the town.

Most budget hostels are near to the Plaza Constitucíon. They offer clean rooms with baths as well as a TV, with some having their own restaurants for a good bite to eat.

Gastronomy

A bit away on the plaza’s east is a smaller plaza, Cruz de Herrera, which is off limits to vehicles, offering many reasonable bars, cafes and restaurants. There are good valued menus and local fare which will delight the tourist.

Transportation

The public buses ply to Algeciras from La Línea every hour for its thirty-minute ride. Buses also connect La Linea to Sevilla, Malaga, Cadiz, Tarifa and even Ayamonte which is located at the Portuguese border. Train service is also available here with the nearest main line station at San Roque to La Línea, which is a distance of 12 kilometers; from there, you can move on to Ronda and further in another train.

Although it may have been said that La Linea is not one of Andalucia’s prettiest towns, it is strategically located to the world’s most famous rock, the rock of Gibraltar, which attracts many tourists making La Linea their base for traveling around this region as the accommodations are much cheaper than its British neighbor offers.

San Roque just celebrated 300 years of existence and is a worthy town to discover if you want a real Spanish experience in your travels.

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Toledo the Historic Town of Spain

Spain carries both natural attractions as well as historic attractions which are in the form of monuments and museums. After having fun in the sandy beaches, it is exciting to learn a thing or two about the history of this famous European country. The history of Spain is very interesting considering the fact that people of mixed cultures and customs used to live here. The different cultures and customs are still preserved to date.

The historic value of some towns, such as Toledo, act as academic tools for local scholars as well as those from all over the world that find Spain interesting. You will not only enjoy what it has to offer you, but you will also understand many things you knew nothing about or didn’t understand very well before.

Toledo holds great importance to medieval history of Europe. It was once described as a fortified small town by a Roman author. This has remained a great parameter in the history of the town, clearly shown by the tourist visitations to the various monuments around the town

Not many people know that this town used to be Spain’s capital during the Gothic epoch. This can be clearly seen in the architectural structures found here which are quite impressive. You will feel as if you are walking back in time during the middle ages as you take your tour in the town streets. The artworks and cuisine of this place will have you spending, so be prepared.

Attractions of Toledo

Every town, city or region in Spain has something to offer, different or almost similar to the previous or next. This makes Spain very special as there is no single town you will go and regret your visit.

The aqueduct and the Amphitheater are conserved remains of the Roman epoch and deserve a visit. The Fortress of San Servando on the other hand represents the Gothic epoch that conquered this country in the 16th century.

Another attraction is Mezquita Del Cristo de la Luz dating back to the 10th century and represents the Moorish epoch in Spain. This town also has several bridges, cathedrals, churches and schools of great significance, and call for attention.

So, if you have been considering going where Spanish history can be found and well understood, Toledo is definitely the town for you. You will forget about the modern civilization and live the unforgettable ancient moments.

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SALOU: A FAMILY DESTINATION 

Costa Dorada and its attractions

Costa Dorada, with the 216 kilometres of beach that stretch along it, is the most popular holiday destination in Spain for those who want to spend some time relaxing with their families. The fact that this is a family destination has been determined by its waters, which are crystal clear and shallow, perfect for children, because there are no risks. Salou occupies a top place on the list of family resorts available on the Coast of Dorada. This is due to the fact that it has the same shallow and clear waters; in addition to this, the services are close to perfection: just about 60 kilometres away from Barcelona, in case anything happens to your child, you have rapid access to the best care in Spain. Besides the fact that it is situated close to one of the biggest cities in Spain, in Salou you’ll always have a lifeguard on the beach to keep an eye on your children, especially on Playa de Levante. One other main attraction of Salou is its peacefulness, its tranquillity, although it is situated close to one of the most crowded cities in Spain.

Attractions in Salou

Salou is full of beaches that meet your desires; you can choose from a very long list that includes names like Playa Levante, Playa de Poniente, or Playa de Capellans. The esplanades of these beaches are decorated with trees and flowers that offer a special perfume and the restaurants and pubs are always ready to present you their tapas offer, which is very popular in Spain. You can’t travel to this country without tasting at least a few types of tapas. Salou also has other types of attractions; for example, you can spend a nice and relaxing evening by the Font Lluminosa, a fountain that offers a very special light show in the evenings. Tourists also enjoy visiting the monument representing Jaume I. The Torre Vella watchtower is another place that tourists enjoy visiting, because it is a place full of history: the inhabitants of Salou built it centuries ago to protect themselves from pirates.

Young and without children

If you are young and without a family, it doesn’t mean that you have to avoid Salou. You’ll find plenty of things to do here: Port Aventura is said to be one of the most important amusement parks not only in Spain, but in Europe, so you can’t miss the opportunity to visit it. When you are not in the amusement park, you can spend your free time in one of the many pubs that are ready to entertain you. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Salou!!

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Menorca, a heavenly place
 
Visit Menorca

Out of the all countries in southern Europe, Spain is the most visited one. With all its known coasts and beautiful islands it has always been at the top. Menorca is one of these famous islands; having its capital at Mahon, it amazes the tourists with its magnificent panoramas. The architectural style of this wonderful city has been strongly influenced by the British people who settled here for many years.

Placa de Espanada and other historical monuments

Placa de Espanada seems to be the place in Mahon which has everything a tourist looks for: bohemian cafes, intimate bars and relaxing parks can all be found there. Furthermore, around this place numerous shops and boutiques await shopping lovers. Add the breathtaking panoramas and the holiday in Menorca will transform into the best holiday ever. In the north east of this place is the old part of the city; the cobbled streets and the small houses are the main attraction here, but you should know that in the neighbourhood of this area you can also visit the church of Santa Maria which dominates Constitution Square. Beside its beautiful design, this church is an attraction also for its organ; tourists come here annually to enjoy the music and the relaxing environment. Another popular church in Mahon is Esglesia Del Carmen; its exterior is in huge contrast with its interior. Valuable paintings and artefacts are found here, so it is worth visiting. The great Museum Of Menorca is placed near to the San Francis church. Extremely unique and rare artefacts are kept inside this huge museum. Beginning with some old coins, maps and strange sculptures, they all are wonderful pieces to visit and admire. It is not only a historical place, but also the best place to have a good drink. Xoriguer Rum is produced close to the most popular museum in Menorca, so between visiting a church and entering an old museum, drink some tasty rum.

 Why Mahon?

If you are not convinced yet by all these reasons that Menorca and its capital can be the perfect holiday destination, then you should know that the views here are unique in the world. The harbour is one of the largest in the world and the marina of Mahon contains many valuable ships. Around this harbour were built numerous villas, bars and restaurants, so there is nothing about getting bored while in Mahon, Menorca.

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Spend your vacation in Girona

Visit Spain

If you haven’t decided yet where to spend your next holiday, then you should think about going on a trip to Spain. This wonderful country has many beautiful places and a vacation in Spain can be relaxing and nice. Girona is one of the most visited places in the entire country. Here, you can find many historical monuments, modern buildings, nice parks, animated pubs and bars or lots of cobbled streets; added to all these the large number of shops and malls and your holiday will be the best you’ve ever had.

All about Girona

In the centre of this beautiful city is Onyar River; it offers to the eye of the tourist amazing panoramas and many of them can be admired on the Pont De Les Peixateries. The landscape and surrounding houses will leave you breathless. The Girona Cathedral is also worth visiting; it was built in both Gothic and Baroque style and it houses some valuable manuscripts and some antique relics. Girona City Story Museum is placed in the north of Girona Cathedral; the artefacts housed here date back from the prehistoric era and are unique in the world. Also next to this famous cathedral is the Episcopal Palace. In this wonderful palace you can admire some artefacts made by monks who actually lived in this place centuries ago. With all these monuments to mention, Girona is a city which has a rich historical past so you can admire the features of all of the people who passed through here: Jewish, Roman or Celtaiberian features, they all came along and transformed this city into a unique one.

The Jewish place

In the north of the city, there is a sector dedicated to the Jewish people; the Arab Baths are the most visited here, since they date back for centuries. Sant Pere Monastery is another visited historical place; being built in a medieval architectural style, it now houses the Archaeology Museum. While you are in this museum, you can see many old artefacts and valuable things.

Special places for tourists

In Girona, there are some offices especially opened for the tourists of the city. Placed on the Rambla de la Libertad, these offices offer many opportunities to all tourists. Here, you can get any information you need, buy some maps to the most important places to visit in the city, buy tickets with lower prices or buy souvenirs for the ones you love.

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History of Madrid, Spain

The history and orientation

The city of Madrid is located on the Castilian plain or meseta (center of Spain). It was initially settled by the Moors around 852 AD. The Moors first built an alcazar (or fortress) with the intention of protecting themselves from the Christian forces coming from the north. According to a general belief, they chose this specific location because of the Manzanares stream that offered a rich water supply. The city’s name, Madrid, is believed to be derived from the Arabic word for “source of water” or “stream”.

After approximately two centuries, in 1085, the city of Madrid was conquered by the Christians, it continued to remain a small settlement. It became big when King Philip II decided to establish his court in the city, in 1561. By that point Madrid’s population continued to grow rapidly. In just a century it went from about 20,000 people to a little more than 150,000. Experiencing such rapid development, Madrid became one of the most powerful cities in the empire. Despite the fact that Spain had numerous enemies at the time, Madrid still managed to grow. We can still see the leftovers of the early dynasties in present day Madrid: old buildings and construction projects, such as the Plaza Mayor (1590-1790), the City Hall (1630) and the Royal Palace (1764), built before the Moorish Fortress was burned to the ground, at around 1734.

The modern Madrid

Going past the main historic periods (such as the French, Bourbon, Republican and Nationalist), we can observe now that much of the towns structures were built around the 19th and 20th centuries. Let us take the Gran Via as an example, where you can view the brilliant skyscrapers from the 1900s, continuing to the beautiful Plaza de Espana, decorated with the same skyscrapers from the late 1950s.

If we leave the center and head north, along the shady and heavily circulated Paseo de la Castellana, we will encounter a number of modern buildings, like the Tores Kio for example. The Tores Kio is located at the Plaza de Castilla. We can see another remarkable building, the Terminal 4, located at Madrid’s Barajas Airport. The Terminal 4 was designed by Estudio Lamala and the Richard Rogers Partnership, in Madrid. The newer buildings of Madrid may not be as interesting as the ones presented for the average tourist. However, these new structures continue to pass on the dynamic spirit of a flourishing city.

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Costa Blanca, the land where everything is possible 

Spain, a perfect vacation destination

Composing the Iberian Peninsula together with Portugal, Spain has one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. It is the country where you can take a sunbath now, and two hours later, you can climb the Pyrenees Mountains. Costa Blanca, a coastal region near Alicante, is one of the places where you never get bored; it has all the features for the perfect holiday destination: sun, seaside, bars, water parks, golf courses and the list can be continued with many other items.

The coast, famous for its golf courses

There are several Golf Courses around this area. However, one of the most popular is the Golf Course “La Finca”. If you choose to spend your holiday here, don’t miss playing golf on this magnificent course:  some hours spent here may be heavenly. The panorama is amazing and the beauty of the nature all around this golf course amazes its visitors. The area is a continuous urban development system; there are a lot of new houses, mansions and blocks and the resort grows more and more.

Unique place

This amazing golf course in Costa Blanca was built in a very special way: these are implied in both the beauty of nature and the human imagination. As if the beauty of nature wouldn’t be enough, the specialists improvised some waterfalls, small botanical gardens and large valleys. The golf course “La Finca” was built according to the latest improvements in golf as a sport.

Expensive and popular at the same time

There were some golf competitions around Costa Blanca, as this course is one of the most equipped in all Spain. Although it is not cheap at all, people invest here: as it is the perfect holiday destination; imagine how it would be to have a home here. However, if you can’t afford buying a house here, don’t panic. There are lots of hotels and motels for all tastes and pocketbooks. Book tickets weeks in advance, as it is a very crowded place, especially in spring and autumn. After winning the golf game, celebrate the event by having an exclusivist drink; no matter what you order, in most places in Spain you’ll get some tapas for free. Try more types of such snacks in order to decide which you like most. Add a long day on a nice beach and be sure that you will have a memorable vacation in Costa Blanca.

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 WONDERFUL PLACES IN THE CANARY ISLANDS 

Where to go while on vacation?

Spain can be a great holiday destination; on one hand, the beautiful cities and places are full of historical monuments. On the other hand, the modern buildings of this Iberian country will leave you breathless. The Canary Islands are also a huge Spanish attraction; very famous in the world, these islands offer magnificent views and a relaxing environment. The most important city in the Canary Islands is definitely Las Palmas; it is also the Grand Canarias’s capital, so it’s worth visiting.

La Vegueta

The old town of Las Palmas is called La Vegueta.  A nice place for taking long walks, it was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. The old town has numerous coloured buildings and cobbled streets that date back centuries. Santa Ana Cathedral is the most important historical monument of this old town. Its design is very interesting, as there were architectural styles used. It holds many valuable paintings and sculptures; inside this old cathedral is a beautiful museum called Sacred Art Museum. Many artefacts can be admired here and the tourists shouldn’t miss it while visiting Las Palmas.

The San Francisco church is the one which dominates another important attraction of Las Palmas, la Triana. Triana is located in the northern part of La Vegueta and in its centre you’ll find a special place for shopping: hundreds of shops, stalls and boutiques lie on Mayor Street.

Casa Museo de Colon

One of the most famous buildings in the Canary Islands is the house called Museo de Colon. It was believed to be the place where Christopher Columbus spent some years, so it is very popular with many annual visitors. Once with the passing of time, it became a museum which houses some old maps and other objects used by the great explorer. Next to this house is the Museum Canario, where you can find great collections of antique objects! Plaza de Espirito houses a great fountain in its centre; being visited by many tourists annually, it is a square full of historical places.

Superb beaches of Canary Islands

Being a city placed on an island, it has many known and nice beaches, where you can spend some lovely days. Beside the great sand, water and sun, you can visit the bars and the pubs placed around these beaches. And if you don’t feel like doing any of those, then go and see a great movie in the cinema complex; choose a Spanish one, to be sure that you’ll enjoy a real Spanish holiday.

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UNIQUE PLACES IN MURCIA- CARTAGENA

The region of Murcia

Murcia is characterised by a Sierra that looks very savage due to its abruptness, by the fresh valleys, the snowy peaks, the unique colour of the Mediterranean Sea, the olive orchards, and by the castles which remind us of Moorish and Renaissance mansions. It is a place full of contrasts, but these contrasts make it one of the most beautiful regions in Spain. There is also something very unique about Murcia: it hosts Cartagena, the port situated at just 55 kilometres away from the city of Murcia. Cartagena used to be and still is one of the most important harbours on the territory of Spain. In antiquity it was one of the most important harbours in Europe because of its strategic placement. Nowadays, the city of Cartagena plays a central role for the Spanish navy: a big part of the fleet belonging to the Spanish navy can be found in Cartagena.

Changes for Cartagena

The past few years have brought along a series of changes for the city of Cartagena. The government decided to exploit the touristic potential of the city, so big sums have been invested in order to transform Cartagena into a holiday destination. The main attractions of the city are typical for the region: old Renaissance mansions, museums and Moorish castles, they are always ready to stun you with their beauty. The name of the city comes from those who first discovered it” the Carthaginians. The Romans came after them and tourists can now see what they’ve left behind in the two main museums of the city: the Naval Museum of Maritime Archaeology and the National Museum of Maritime Archaeology. You can admire here Punic artefacts, collected from the bottom of the sea and different types of boat models. If you are interested in old buildings, the Santa Maria de Gracia is perfect for you. It dates back to the 18th century and you can admire here sculptures belonging to the famous Salzillo.

A few tips

If you are interested in visiting all the important historical sites in Cartagena, the Cartagena Card will save you a lot of money and time spent buying tickets. If you love water sports, the Calblanque Regional Park offers you the possibility to practice activities such as sailing, windsurfing, or even scuba diving. For a perfect relaxing holiday, avoid the roads, as they are very crowded. Choose instead to fly to Cartagena; the Murcia airport is just about 20 kilometres away. Enjoy your stay!

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The beauties of Mallorca

The Coast Of Sun

The beauties of Mar Menor

Places for tourists in Spain –TORREMOLINOS  

TORREMOLINOS may seem quite different from other Spanish towns with its burlesque seaside resort charm. It offers the tourist miles of sandy beaches with infinite shopping pleasures for the shopaholics and lively genuine Irish pubs. It is quite heavily populated with British, Scandinavian and German expatriates.

Accommodation

With its wide range of activities, Torremolinos offers many good quality accommodations in the form of hostels, campsites and hotels. Many are close to the beach but are affordable.

With more tourists coming in, many older Torremolinos hotels undergo a makeover to prepare for the increased demand of tourists. This is a good move which gives a fresher look to the environment.

Top Hotels

Sol Principe is the town’s affluent hotel which offers outdoor pools that are lagoon-style, pleasant tropical gardens and even an indoor heated pool. Close to the Playamar Beach which is barely 100 metres away, this is a popular hotel. Another popular and luxurious hotel found here is the Royal Al Andalus which is located at the center of Costa del Sol and offers sun and fun the whole year. It is found in the La Carihuela district which is famous for the delicious fried fish cuisine in this region. This luxurious hotel boasts an outdoor pool, buffet restaurant, landscaped gardens and closeness to the beach. Its gardens are beautifully landscaped for your relaxation while the 2 minute walk to the beach provides an instant view of the clear Mediterranean Sea. With the city center at a close 700 metres, this hotel is most suitable for the visitor who wants a quick walk to the shops, restaurants and bars.

Yet another luxury hotel is the Melia Costa del Sol which is located right in front of the beach offering great sea views. With an outdoor swimming pool, free gym and Wi-Fi, this hotel offers guests great opportunities to relax or workout in its wellness centre at a small cost. With the availability of a Jacuzzi, sauna, hydromassage pool and Hammam, it is well worth the cost in pampering yourself after a good day of discovery at Torremolinos.

There are many smaller, budget accommodations that one can spend a night or two at Torremolinos.

Gastronomy

Torremolinos offers many great places for fresh seafood in local recipes. Besides the menu at hotels, there are plenty of eateries that serve fresh fish and local seafood cuisine in the Costa del Sol region or the Carihuela district at the beach area which is just west of town.

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SPENDING TIME IN TARIFA

A holiday in Tarifa

Tarifa is situated in the province of Andalusia and its fame comes from the fact that it is the southernmost town in Europe; this led to a very relaxed atmosphere in this town, so people from all over the world come here attracted to it. The water and the beaches are great in Tarifa, which makes possible a wide range of water sports, starting with surfing and finishing with scuba diving. The name of the town comes from a Moorish leader who took control over it in 711. Tarif ibn Malik was the one who gave his name to the town, but it seems like the name also has another connotation: being the first port in history which charged merchants, “tariff” became an economical importance. However, the main activity in Tarifa is centred today around tourism. People appreciate the old quarter with its Moorish architecture combined with Christian influences; these influences come from the period when the Christians took the control of the town from the Moorish. The combination is unique, so many tourists come here just to
enjoy the special architecture and the unique buildings. For example, the San Mateo Church dates back to the 15th century and the Mirador de Miramar offers breathtaking views over the mountains in Morocco.

Other activities

Sightseeing is not the main activity in Tarifa. Most of the tourists come here because they are attracted by the color of the water and by the long beaches covered with fine and delicate sands. Playa de los Lances is the destination for those who love kites and windsurfing, because a breeze is always present here. If you are one of those tourists who only want to spend a relaxing day sunbathing, there are a few places where you can go without the fear of being disturbed by the wind: Playa Chicitita is one of the most popular ones. Scuba diving is also possible in Tarifa thanks to the clear water; it is an interesting experience, especially because the aquatic fauna is extremely varied here. A very unique experience is to go sailing in order to spot dolphins and whales; there are not many places where you can do this, but Tarifa is one of them. Entertainment is at his house in Tarifa: the carnivals are always present and in the evenings you can nourish your senses with some Italian, African or Chinese dishes available in the restaurants in Tarifa. Choose this resort for your holiday; you won’t regret it!     

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Night and Day fun at Tenerife  

Tenerife belongs to the group of islands called the Canary Islands; it is the largest of the islands in the group. The other islands are smaller in size such as La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. It has lushness all around with the highest peak being the El Teide volcano which is clearly visible from all over the island. This volcano boasts of being Spain’s highest mountain with a very different landscape that supports micro climates which means moderate temperature of 23 degrees C all year round. This pleasant climate makes it very attractive to millions of visitors, especially Europeans, every year.


Sun-filled offering

Tenerife is ideal for beach lovers as there is the constant moderate climate that encourages all beach lovers to stay long hours on the beaches which are golden and sandy. Alternatively, one can choose to explore the many varieties of tropical fauna and flora that are found in the national parks here. These national parks are not only beautiful with its fauna and flora but are also very well maintained and educational. Some of the more renowned ones are Teide, Anaga, Caorono Forestal Natura and Teno Rural Park. Even the naturally arid and earthly landscape all around Teide volcano makes the place so impressive and virgin; it was the perfect site for the shooting of the movie, ‘One Million Years BC’ which became a blockbuster on the Hollywood movie listing.

There are theme parks to entertain the whole family while exhibition halls of interesting displays draw the intellectuals and the curious. The island also offers movies in the local cinemas for those who like to enjoy some entertainment without the rush while museums are a favorite with those who like to understand more of the culture and history of the place.

Nightlife and gastronomy

There is never a dull moment at Tenerife; the visitors will be thoroughly occupied during the day when the sun brings the glow on the beach and then with the historical sights while at night, they can enjoy the cool of the night with the great night activities in store at various spots like Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz, Las Americas and La Laguna.

The locals play an important role in drawing in more visitors as they practice openness and warm hospitality with plenty of charm. Not a second fiddle is definitely the delicious local cuisine that is a combination of Spanish, Latin American and African recipes. Some hot favorites are Papas Arrugadas which are wrinkled potatoes, Mojo-sauced salted fish and Potaje de Berros, chick pea stew that is served hot. Of course, there are always the Spanish tapas available anywhere on the island.

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