Retiring To The Costa Del Sol – Things to Consider · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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When considering moving to another country in search of a more sedate and laid back lifestyle to finish your remaining years, it’s important to think any move through thoroughly and to gather as much information as you can before taking the plunge.

Retiring to Costa del Sol and other parts of Spain is as popular as ever for many pensioners from northern European countries and the UK searching for warmer climes. Our pensioners guide aims to help those who are considering making that move, fully understand the pros and the con’s of such a huge transition.

One of the main reasons that many pensioners look to move to the Costa del Sol is the weather. With around 320 days of sunshine each year it has become a haven for those seeking the great health benefits that come with so much sunshine. It’s a fact, that the sunshine not only makes us happy, but also has a great holistic affect on our well being and can help to alleviate many medical conditions such as arthritis, cancer and depression to name just a few. So for pensioners especially, the warm climate of the Mediterranean acts as a natural cure for many existing ailments.

Another important aspect to moving abroad as a pensioner is the local healthcare. Healthcare in Spain is one of the best in Europe and under the EEA agreement; pensioners from other EEA countries including the UK are entitled to free health care.

It’s also worth noting that prior to moving to Spain you will need to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) the previous requirement being the E111 which was phased out in 2005. Once you have arrived you will need to register yourself at the “Instituo Nacional de Seguridad Social” (INSS) office. Further information on form requirements can be obtained from the UK “Department of Works and Pensions” website online.

Hopefully, you will not need to visit a hospital too often but if you do, you will find that most of the major hospitals on the Costa del Sol are both well equipped and extremely clean and well run.

Most pensioners moving abroad will also need to consider the transfer of their pension to their Spanish bank account. One thing that is really important to remember when transferring money from the UK or another country into Spain, is the currency exchange rate. Currency exchange rates can fluctuate considerably, which means that you could be left out of pocket if the rate plummets. A number of foreign exchange companies provide money transfer services and can set the exchange rate for a fixed period for you.

Another aspect of moving abroad that many fail to consider thoroughly are family ties. If your close relatives are not moving to Spain with you, you may have times when you feel home sick or even lonely and this can cause a degree of stress and depression not to mention possible friction between partners.

When moving to another country you will obviously need accommodation unless you plan on living in a hotel. There are two main options that you have which are renting a property or buying a property.

Property prices have risen dramatically in recent years and more and more people are renting with the view to purchasing once the prices have fallen. This can be a smart move but looking at it another way is that there are many people being affected by the global recession and this has presented many opportunities to barter and put in much lower offers for those who do not require a mortgage and are able to move quickly, so both options are worth thinking about.

In terms of the kind of properties that you should think about living in is difficult. You have apartments or townhouses on urbanizations or fincas and villas in the country. Most pensioners will feel safer being surrounded by others who may be able to help if required, in which case a place in the rural countryside may not be the best option. Conversely, some apartments and urbanizations can be on the noisy side, especially in the summer months, so think long and hard about where you are going to live.

Travel is obviously important to all of us and the ability to drive is an obvious advantage wherever you live. If you will not be driving, you must consider where you are moving to in terms of transport and road infrastructure.

The Costa del Sol has a good motorway system and most towns along the coast are easily accessible via car and bus, mainly via the N340 motorway. The trains though are another proposition. Although the capital Malaga has excellent routes to the capital Madrid and Barcelona, there is not much in the way of a train service along the coast, so you are mainly restricted to car or bus. If you are moving slightly inland of the coast, you should also know that there are no bus services in some of the smaller towns and if you do not have a car you will be heavily dependent on taxi cabs which can really hit your bank balance hard.

Finally we come to the language. One hurdle that most people have trouble with is the Spanish language. It can be very difficult to learn a new language and it becomes harder and harder the older you get.

Relocating to a new country and not being able to communicate at a basic level can be quite traumatic, so it’s important that before you do move to Spain, you have at the very least, a fundamental understanding of the Spanish language. Although there are many courses for expats once you arrive, it will be easier to make the transition if you have even a basic understanding.

Robert Griggs writes for PGM Property World who are an established family run real estate agents on the Costa del Sol. For further information on living on the Costa del Sol or to search their property in spain listings, please visit http://www.pgmpropertyworld.com

Article Source: Retiring To The Costa Del Sol – Things to Consider · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

How to enjoy the beauty of Torremolinos · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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If you go to Costa del Sol in the south of Spain, one of the most interesting places to visit is Torremolinos. Situated only 7 km from Malaga airport, the biggest in the region, it is extremely easy to get there no matter where you come from. Taking a look in the past, Torremolinos was nothing but a fishing village in the beginning of the 60’s. However, the big number of tourists that come from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of the region has changed its face for ever. The region developed and a lot of Torremolinos hotels were built as quickly as possible to fulfil the needs of the great number of tourists. The present shows a town with a great deal to offer and with high quality services that attract even more people to visit and stay at the hotels in Torremolinos.

Actually, the statistics show that the hotels in Torremolinos own 40% of all tourism in Costa del Sol, more than any in the other tourist towns in the region. Why? Because of the fact that the town officials have decided to enlarge the range of entertainment options offered to the tourists, except sun and beach, and a lot of new attractions have appeared. The other important aspect regarding this percentage is the fact that the number of hotels in Torremolinos has greatly increased during the past years, so it is impossible not to find what you are looking for in one of the Torremolinos hotels, no matter the taste or the budget. Actually, the number of Torremolinos hotels is greater than in any other area of Costa del Sol, so there is no way you, as a visitor, can say: “I had no place to stay”.

The beautiful sandy beaches, which are the main attraction of the region, are guarded by massive budget Torremolinos hotels that are constantly packed with tourists of all nationalities, whether it is peak season or not. Going along the seafront promenade, Paseo Maritimo, you can find yourself in the old villages which do not host any of the famous Torremolinos hotels. Some of these villages have stood still in time. Also, further away from the noise of civilization, more to the north, there are some hotels in Torremolinos that are perfect for the tourists who just want some quiet time far from the bustle of the centre.

The changes that came along with the tourists together with the great number of hotels in Torremolinos have started taking away from the natural beauty of the region. Therefore, recently, a lot of public gardens have emerged, compensating for all the concrete Torremolinos hotels. So the town has started looking like an interesting combination of nature and concrete, that caters for all tastes. Everywhere in the area, the Torremolinos hotels are guarded by parks with all sorts of different plants, from the exotic magnolias and banana trees to the beautifully coloured beds of roses and azaleas.

For the average tourists, it is vital to know the amenities that can be found in the numerous hotels in Torremolinos. Well, basically, whatever you want you can get. Because of the fact that there are so many of them and the competition tries to surpass all expectations, the facilities are more numerous and of greater quality. The result of this is to the benefit of tourists, who can get great prices and all the class services they want in order to make their stay in one of the Torremolinos hotels as pleasurable as possible.

If you’re looking for central accommodation, there are a number of hotels in Torremolinos in Calle del Peligro, which is just a walk from the Bajondillo beach. Some even have a sea view. Also, there are many Torremolinos hotels in one of the liveliest areas, Calle las Mercedes, but on a summer Saturday night people living in them might need earplugs. Moreover, there are a number of three and four star hotels in Torremolinos on the front of El Bajondillo beach, which have been on the package holiday market for years and have satisfied many customers. Most of the hotels in Torremolinos have recently been repaired and now offer even better conditions.

So, in the most developed town in Costa del Sol, which is Torremolinos, the beauty of nature is being completed by the good services offered by locals, as the Torremolinos hotels can cater for all tastes. All the 60 registered hotels in Torremolinos together with the beauty of the beaches and the Mediterranean Sea truly make the area a piece of heaven.

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Cielo extends a warm invitation to all those interested in the budget Torremolinos hotels to visit our site and search for available rooms. You can even book in advance and see what any of the cheap hotels in Costa del Sol have to offer. We can make your vacation preparation easier by giving a helping hand regarding hotels in Spain.

Article Source: How to enjoy the beauty of Torremolinos · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Life in the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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If you are looking to invest in Spanish property that can be used both for rental and second home purposes, look no further than Costa del Sol. This beautiful region is located along the south coast of Spain, which is bordered against the Mediterranean Sea. With more than 300 kilometres of coastline, there is no dearth of pristine beaches in Costa del Sol. Life in Costa del Sol borders from vibrant to active. In other words, there is never a dull moment while you are living in Costa del Sol.

What makes property in the Costa del Sol a hot potato for the real estate developers is its charming locales. The exotic locales of this region pave the way for a huge number of tourists’ influx all the year round. Add pleasant Mediterranean climate and you have a place where you can enjoy life to the hilt. The rainfall is scanty between June and September, which means you can soak in the sun on one of those magnificent beaches without a worry about inclement weather.

Most locals in the Costa del Sol lead a vibrant life that is marked by jaunts at the nightclubs, pubs, bars, and restaurants till late in the night. Spanish property investment for such people makes better sense if they choose Costa del Sol as their preferred destination. There is absolutely no danger to travel late in the night, as the region is generally, crime-free and the Andalusian people are known for their friendly and hospitable nature.

For a relaxed life, you can always hit the countryside, which is just a short drive from the Costa. Spacious villas are easily available for rent to spend some quality time with friends and family. The solitude provided by Costa countryside is worth its weight in gold, and is steadily increasing the rental potential in the Costa del Sol.

While talking of an enjoyable life, how can we forget several golf facilities in the Costa del Sol? With over 60 Costa del Sol Golf Courses spanning from Sotogrande in the west to Velez Malaga in the east, the place is simply pampering the locals and the visitors to have a round of golf all year round. The Brits will welcome the break from cold and dry weather at home and simply love to tee off at the warm and luxurious golf resorts at Costa del Sol.

The Spanish government has made rapid strides in improving infrastructure in the Costa del Sol area. The road network is made more user-friendly and extensive. The Malaga airport has been vastly improved to bring it to world-class standards. Additionally, air routes into both Granada and Jerez now offer the visitors greater choice of flights at affordable rates. Gibraltar has also increased the frequency of flights to and from this region. Overall, the Costa del Sol is an extremely well connected region with major cities of Europe.

There are plenty of attractions in the area for children of all ages. Selwo Wild Life Park
near Estepona will keep the kids hooked on to the place all day long. There is also Selwo Marina nearby, which is the only Dolphinarium in South Spain. Torremolinos and Mijas Costa are known for a couple of brilliant Aqua Parks, with lots of slides and pools. The entire family can also indulge in activities, like rock climbing, archery, kayaking, paintball, etc., at Natura Adentura near the town of Marbella. The Fuengirola Zoo is another place you should never miss while the kids are in tow.

The culture lovers would simply love a visit to The Picasso Museum at Malaga. The nature lovers have The Botanical Gardens at Malaga and the Bonsai Museum at Marbella waiting for them. The Mijas Race Course plays host to several world-class concerts of artists, like Sir Elton John, Rod Stewart, Bryan Adams, etc., in addition to concerts by
other renowned orchestras.

In conclusion, life in the Costa del Sol offers a healthy break from the monotonous routines the Brits have become accustomed to. A real estate investment in the Costa del Sol by the UK investors is certainly an opportunity worth grabbing, since you can buy really affordable off-plan or even completed property in this part of Spain, which is not the case with rest of the country.

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Frank Crowley Azure Overseas Ltd

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Article Source: Life in the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Why Invest in the Costa del Sol? · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Spanish property has always attracted hordes of investors from all across the globe making it one of the most inflated real estate markets in the world today. The reason is not too far to seek. An ideal climate coupled with numerous developmental projects underway in the country makes Spain an ideal investment destination. The Spanish property investment is made more lucrative when you consider that the abundance of cheap flights from the UK and the unique quality of life available.

The property in the Costa del Sol in south Spain is particularly attracting lots of attention from the European investors, especially the Brits. And it makes a perfect investing sense to put your money in the Costa del Sol property. The reasons why you should definitely look towards property investment in Costa del Sol optimistically are:

1. Most of the Costa del Sol economy is driven by tourism that gets a boost with a magnificent climate throughout the year. The annual average temperature settles at around 18 degrees Celsius making it a hot tourist destination. The Sun makes its presence felt almost throughout the year. With visitors making a beeline to get in, the place has an obvious high demand for accommodation. Though there are a huge number of hotels, motels, and other accommodations in the area, but most tourists prefer to rent out a holiday home or an apartment to enjoy their stay in complete privacy. Thus, the rental potential in the Costa del Sol is a great consideration, which contributes immensely to generate investors’ interest in the region.
2. The Costa del Sol is among the most well connected regions in Spain. The close proximity of Malaga International Airport, and other important towns and villages means that there is lot of activity in and around the area. The investors don’t have to travel a lot once they arrive at the Malaga International Airport.
3. Both locals and visitors just love the place that has over 300 kilometres of coastline complete with pristine Mediterranean beaches of the Andalusian provinces of Malaga, Cadiz and Granada. It’s these fun-filled moments that the visitors just cherish, and in the process, spur the demand for property in Costa del Sol manifold.
4. The golf facilities in the Costa del Sol are next to none with over 60 golf resorts and courses inviting the golf-crazy Brits to make heavy investments in the region.
5. Life in the Costa del Sol is a mix of vibrancy and laidback. The place has something for individuals of every taste. The adventure freaks, nature lovers, enthusiastic kids, party revellers, gourmets, culture lovers, etc. all have their hands full at Costa del Sol.
6. The property prices in Costa del Sol are steadily rising between 4%-6% for the past 5 years or so, thus, making it a safe bet as far as overseas investment is concerned. Both the short-term as well as long-term investors can look for real gains out of any kind of property investment in Costa del Sol. Whether you are looking to keep your property for long and turn it into a regular income source through rentals, or you are a speculative investor trying to make a quick-buck from the volatile real estate market, the gains from Costa del Sol property investment are tremendous.
7. Due to geographical and other natural advantages, the property prices in Costa del Sol are slightly on a higher side. However, when you look at the rental and speculative gains, the higher prices just cease to be a prohibitive factor as far as investment goes. Moreover, there are several off-plan properties under construction and available for sale in the region. These can be grabbed at highly affordable prices with a high degree of income potential.
8. Being a EU member nation, Spain’s laws relating to property purchase by overseas investors are either already streamlined or under the process of being streamlined. Easy and investor-friendly laws are always considered as an invitation to more and more overseas investors to explore the investment potential of a region. And Spain has left no stone unturned to project Costa del Sol a hot investment stop among the foreign investors.

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Frank Crowley Azure Overseas Ltd

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Article Source: Why Invest in the Costa del Sol? · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

The Seville region of Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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SEVILLE

Seville (Sevilla), the capital of Andalucia stands on the banks of the Rio Guadalquivir which has sculpted the surrounding landscape and left the area a fertile plain, perhaps one of the reasons that Seville is such a beautiful city with its lush sub tropical gardens.

You need at least a few days in which to explore Seville, though falling in love with this ancient city will take far less time. Exploring by foot is the best way to get to know Sevilla, La Arenal is a good place to start. The port of Seville was once here, before the river silted up and the area took a downward turn, becoming entwined with the notorious underworld. However after the river was converted to a canal, the area began to regain its previous glory. Today boat trips can be taken down the river to view Seville from the peace of the water. The Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is Seville’s bullring and built in the 18th century is one of the oldest in Spain. The arena seats up to 14000 and visitors can take guided tours here. Bullfighting season beings on Easter Sunday and lasts until October.

Santa Cruz is the old Jewish quarter, a literal maze of narrow streets, and small sunny squares hiding tapas bars, plazas and quaint gardens. Excellent bars and restaurants can be found here. Seville’s cathedral towers above the Jewish quarter and was previously the site of a large mosque when Sevilla was under Moorish rule. Don’t leave Seville without visiting one of its wonders, the Reales Alcazares, Royal Palace. The palace is a work of art in itself and the beauty of the buildings, facades and gardens will take your breath away.

Leaving the city into the region also known as Seville, we find a countryside of distinctive flavours. The area around Seville, as mentioned previously is a fertile farmland, La Campina. To the north of the region you’ll find the La Colmarca de la Sierra a mountainous area with lots of options for outdoor activities.
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Warren Ward runs the vacation owner rental website of www.ChooseSpain.com which advertises hundreds of holiday villas and apartments throughout Spain.

Article Source: The Seville region of Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Holidays in Nerja on the Costa del Sol, Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Nerja has become one of the most popular holiday resorts on the Costa del Sol to be found east of Malaga. Unlike many of the popular destinations to the west of Malaga heading down towards Gibraltar, such as Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Marbella, Nerja has escaped mass tourism and still retains much of its original charm and character as a former fishing village.

Nerja is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Almijara mountain range, which shelters it from the worst of winter weather whilst providing a breathtaking backdrop to the town’s traditional whitewashed stone townhouses and villas. It is surely one of the most beautiful destinations along the eastern Costa del Sol. With just a 45-minute drive to Malaga’s international airport, cheap flights available from many European destinations and a regular coastal bus service, Nerja can be an ideal cheap holiday destination.

The Balcon de Europa is the focal point of the old town and offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea and nearby beaches. It was originally known as ‘La Bateria’ due to the gun battery that stood here in a fortified tower, but was destroyed in 1810 by a Bristish led force during the Pennisular War to prevent occupation by French forces. Nowadays the Balcon is full of activity with street artists and entertainers, horse-drawn carriages and ice-cream vendors selling a huge variety of flavours and colours. Lined with many bars and restaurants, it offers an ideal location to relax and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean coastline.

In the old quarter of Nerja town itself, many buildings still retain their original Andalucia architectural style, and the narrow winding streets bustle with the authentic atmosphere of a working Spanish town. Yet Nerja has all the advantages of a modern town, with endless shops selling ceramics, textiles, leather goods, souvenirs and essential beach accessories for the family.

Much of Nerja’s nightlife begins late into the evening and you are sure to find a bar to your particular taste, either in the lively Tutti Frutti Square, or the many tranquil bars to be found around the Balcon de Europa. Bars and clubs in Tutti Frutti Square stay open well into the morning hours during the long, hot summer nights, and are particularly popular with younger holiday visitors. However, bars near the Balcon are more conducive to the relaxed atmosphere of Andalucia life.

If you are happy to spend your holiday relaxing in Nerja, you can be assured there are many beautiful sandy beaches hidden within small coves, lined with bars and restaurants in abundance. Burriana beach is one of the largest and most popular with tourists and Spanish alike, whilst to the side of the Balcon itself, hidden within a small cove, can be found one of Nerja’s most charming beaches with golden sand and clear blue water.

Less than 3km away are the famous Nerja Caves first discovered in 1959, now one of the most popular holiday attractions in Spain. The caves have impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, and a natural cavern that has been turned into an impressive concert hall, the location of many theatre productions and classical concerts. One of Nerja’s most celebrated fiestas is San Isidro on the 15th May. A large procession of decorated carts leave the centre of the town heading towards the caves for a weekend of festivity and celebration, in true Andalucia style. The caves can also be reached by local bus with a regular service leaving from the main bus terminal on Avenida Pescia.

The town itself offers many holiday attractions for the visitor, but if you feel the need to explore some of the attractions Andalucia has to offer, then it is an ideal starting point for trips and excursions. Within a ten minute drive can be reached the beautiful whitewashed-stone villages of Frigiliana and Torrox, both shining white as snow in the sun. For real snow however, the Sierra Mountains offer fantastic, affordable skiing during the winter months and all within a two-hour drive. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains is the Moorish city of Granada, dominated by the mysterious Alhambra Palace. A series of palaces and gardens built over several centuries under the Nazrid Dynasty in the 14th Century.

Nerja has become very popular for people retiring or simply looking for a change of life, with a fifth of the estimated population of 20,000 being foreign residents, including more than 2,000 British. During the summer months this figure increases many more times with the arrival of holiday visitors in abundance attracted by one of the best climates in Europe. With Costa del Sol beaches, golf courses, skiing, adventure parks, water parks and the Almijara mountain range all within easy reach; Nerja has something to offer everyone.

Steve Greenwood has lived on the Costa del Sol for 3 years and works in Nerja. You are invited to visit Costa del Sol holiday rentals for Nerja holiday apartments, places to visit and things to do in Spain. Ideal Rentals (www.idealrentals4u.com) offers holiday information on all the regions of Spain including the Balearic and Canary Islands.

Article Source: Holidays in Nerja on the Costa del Sol, Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

The Axarquia in Andalucia · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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The Axarquia, on the easternmost part of the Costa del Sol, is situated next to Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol and its seaport and airport, which are amongst the busiest in Spain. The city is also well-connected with the rest of Spain by road, thanks to the modern communication network. All of it makes the whole area an ideal welcoming place for quality tourism that look for something other than sun, sea and sand. A type of tourism that looks for history, for legend, such as that of the mountain bandits that still seem to lurk around the Venta de Alfarnate, where all those traveling inland from the coast had to pass. That look for nature, thanks to the walking trails through the beautiful countryside. That look for emotions, practicing hang-gliding, windsurfing, waterskiing or scuba-diving. That looks for relaxation on the magnificent golf courses that have the Costa del sol.

The Axarquia offers some splendid tours to discover the many secrets of the area. One of the most interesting itineraries is the Route of the Olive Oil and the Mountains. The remains of huge millstones and enormous vats that can be found in the region are proof of how far back olive-oil making goes. It is the basic element of the traditional, delicious and healthy Mediterranean gastronomy. Following these remains, we commence the route in Viñuela, where there is a reservoir on which activities are programmed that are increasingly popular with those who want to practice Active Rural Tourism. It is an area, as is most of La Axarquia, that is sought after by those looking for direct contact with rural and natural surroundings.

But as well as nature, we can also find other exciting activities:: archaeological remains, such as Cerro Capellania, the Neolithic site of El Fuerte en Periana, the Necropolis of Santa Ana or the remains of the Arab Baths in Vilo, which speak clearly of the place’s culture and historical past. Colmenar, with its Shrine to Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, adding the finishing touch to this whitewashed town, and Riogordo, where we find the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de Gracia (XVI century) form part of the history of La Axarquia. During the Napoleonic invasion, the so-called “Priest of Ribagorda”, leading his guerrilla squads, kept the troops at bay, attacking them even in their own barracks. On the slope of the La Maroma Peak lies Alcaucin, a name that comes from the Arabic al-Cautin (the Arches).

Nearby is the Castle and the settlement of Zaifa, erected upon an ancient Phoenician fortress. Following on north, we come to Alfarnate and Alfarnatejo and close to the former, La Venta de Alfarnate, a country inn dating back to 1690. This place was often withess to, and retreat from, the persecution of the bandits by the “Migueletes”. Now, calmed and peaceful, this eatery offers, in romantic surroundings, the most prized dishes of the region’s gastronomy, prepared with the delicious oil that gives this route its name.

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Article Source: The Axarquia in Andalucia · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Top 10 cruises to the Mediterranean · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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What better way to see what the south of Europe has to offer than to go on a Mediterranean cruise? Sit back and enjoy the varied cultural richness, stunning surroundings and natural beauty of some of the world’s most fascinating cities including Florence, Rome, Cannes, Marsilles, Barcelona and many more. Great for a family cruise holiday, a holiday with your partner or if you are travelling on your own.

The warmest months in the Mediterranean is from May to September so is the ideal time to take a cruise holidy for sun seekers. It should be noted that alot of the ports are often extremely busy during the summer, but there is certainly a lot of destinations worth checking out, including the Greek Islands, Costa del Sol, Liguria Coast and the French Riviera.

Cruise the western Mediterranean and check out France, Italy and Spain. Some itineraries take in a selection of Balearic Islands whilst others make the short journey across to North Africa. Cruise Eastern Mediterranean and you can explore the coastlines of Croatia, Greece and Turkey with magnificent beaches, ancient historical sites and fascinating cultures, a cruise to the Mediterranean has it all. Some of the more lengthly intineraries can get you to ports Israel and Egypt also. With so much history and variety to be found in a relatively small sea, the Mediterranean has holiday types for every taste and age ideal for cruise holidays.

The Mediterranean cities hold a wealth of history, such as Rome, Athens or Venice to modern trend setting towns such as Ibiza Town or Monte Carlo. There is also plenty of old historical sites to see, for example, Olympics were held in Greece. You can also visit the Turkey which is rich in history. Some cruises even allow you the opportunity to stay overnight, try Venice or maybe Istanbul? You could also become a tourist for the day in sunny Majorca, Corsica, Santorini or Rhodes, some of the Mediterranean’s favourite sunspots. With a large choice of 7 – 14 night cruises available from most of the cruise lines, there is never a shortage of itineraries on offer.

The new mini cruises that are fast becoming popular, particularly from the coastal Spanish cities of Malaga and Barcelona. You can cruise all year round in the Mediterranean, but the majority of itineraries run from April to October.

Whatever you chose to do, wherever you chose to go, a Mediterranean cruise is great value for money and particularly rewarding for the whole family!

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Article Source: Top 10 cruises to the Mediterranean · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Experience the magic with car hire in Southern Spain. · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Malaga, Seville, Valencia and Murcia; what do these places have in common? The answer is simple; they are just some of the fantastic, picturesque destination in Southern Spain. When travelling to Southern Spain you will quickly realise that there is a variety of activities to do and the area caters for all types of holiday-maker. Whether it is adventure or relaxation you are looking for, Southern Spain has it all.

There is so much to do and see; you need a way to get the most out of your holiday. Tour groups often have set itineraries and tend to stick to them. You may want to spend more time in, for example, Seville then you do in Murcia, but you can’t due to the itinerary you have to stick to. One way to avoid this is by hiring a car as car hire allows you to explore places you have more of an interest in.

Seville is one place you should visit when travelling to the South of Spain. It has some amazing monuments to see including the city’s cathedral, there are no stairs in the cathedral as they opted for ramps which make for easy accessibility. The Alcazar (Royal Palace) and Torre del Oro (The gold tower) are also monuments that you should try and see when in Seville.

Valencia is situated on the South-East coast of Spain and is Spain’s third largest city. Valencia has transformed itself from an industrial city to the vibrant, tourist friendly city it is today. When the city was reformed during the mid-90’s, many landmarks were restored such as the Serrano and Quart Towers. As well as these, many museums, monasteries and theatres can be found which will ensure you have a holiday you will never forget. As the city is so large and there is so much to do and see, a car rental is the best way to travel around at your own pace and enjoy the sights of Valencia.

As well as the larger cities, smaller towns like Murcia, Grenada and Cadiz are all worth a visit to experience some Spanish culture. Andalusia offers the most choice for tourists and places like the Costa del Sol are a favourite amongst many tourists visiting Spain each year.

Article Source: Experience the magic with car hire in Southern Spain. · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

The Wonderful Spanish City Of Malaga · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Lots of entertainment awaits the lucky vacationer whenever he/ she chooses to go to the wonderful Spanish city of Malaga. This Malaga city overview attempts to provide you with an array of useful information relating to its history, culture, sights and attractions as well as general information you’ll need upon touring this amazing, famous destination. Popular with European tourists because of its nearby location, this city is an ideal holiday spot with great weather, natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

You can do lots of activities here because of its travel convenience, enabling you to make most of your time. Look forward to enjoying every bit of Malaga. Being Costa del Sol region’s capital city, expect a lot of surprises and enriching worthwhile experiences mingling with its history and culture with captivating backdrop scenery.

Malaga City Guide- Places to See and Activities to Do

You’ll never expect boredom to creep into you whenever you do a Malagan visit. There are lots of sights to see and entertaining things to do in an exciting place such as this. Everything fun to do is within easy reach. From recreational facilities, relaxing beauty havens, historical sites, cultural events and festivities, nightlife and shopping stopovers, you’ll surely to get you fill. Malaga also boasts of being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, where you’ll get glimpses of his life through his house, a very famous place visitors like to drop in by.

You can also get the privilege of delving through the city’s colorful past at the historic quarters. Notable events and festivities such as Holy Week, Summer Fair and many can be joined in throughout the course of the year. Other worthwhile to-dos would be visits to one of its incomplete cathedrals, Moorish castles, fortresses and lush gardens.

Malaga City Guide- A City for All Ages

No matter what age, race, gender, taste or status one may have expect that Malaga has everything in store for you. Sites with great historical and visual value, natural wonders, recreational areas, cultural festivities and events are verily present in every nook and cranny of the city. Fabulous night life includes the widest selections of bars, clubs, restaurants, live entertainment for the party animal’s pleasure.

Fun doesn’t stop with the sun’s setting as the crowd eats, drink and dance into the early hours of the morning. Shopping fanatics will drop dead over the city’s best shopping areas with world class facilities ranging from boutiques to unique gift and souvenir shops. Age doesn’t really matter when it comes to enjoying all of Malaga. All it takes is an eagerness to absorb what this city can bring you in sorts in order to have a very memorable vacation you’ll ever have.

About the Author

Peter Wilson continually produces news on news related to malaga spain and costa del sol and malaga. Recording his experience in writings like http://www.alicante-spain.com , he proofed his know-how on topics associated with malaga.

Article Source: The Wonderful Spanish City Of Malaga · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Play Golf on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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The Costa del Sol, recently renamed the Costa del Golf, is an absolute Paradise for golfers of all standards. Offering some world-class golf courses in some beautiful locations combined with the highest number of sunshine days per annum in Europe it is hard to beat. Plentiful and cheap flights to Malaga, Gibraltar and now Jerez make it accessible all the year round and not content to rest on it’s laurels new golf courses and academies are being opened up on a regular basis which is why so many golfers return here year after year as there are always new and exciting challenges.

Just A Few of the Many Costa del Sol Golf Courses.

Valderrrama, home to the Volvo Masters (1988-96), the Ryder Cup (1997) and the World Golf Championships (1999-2000), Valderrama surpasses its reputation as number 1 in Europe and it has twice received the accolade of “Best Golf Club in Europe”

La Duquesa Golf Course, designed by Trent Jones has some wonderful Mediterranean views , which could play havoc with your scoring! It is probably the most complete club on the coast offering tennis, swimming pool, squash, gym etc. along with the picturesque Duqesa Port just across the road. There is also an excellent bar and restaurant, and not forgetting of course the world class and demanding golf course itself.

La Cañada was designed free of charge by Tent Jones and is the first municipal golf course of the Costa del Sol. It’s nine holes are laid out on a hillside and do not present any particular difficulties.

Alhaurin Golf is a little inland from the Costa del Sol but is well worth the trip as the scenery is stunning and the course superb. It is a unique club, in that it has three golf courses — an 18 hole par 72 course designed by Seve Ballesteros, a nine hole par 3 course bordering a beautiful lake, and an 18 hole junior course (adults may play only when accompanied by a child.) The par 72 course is of international quality with challenging holes, lush green fairways and greens set amongst pine woods. Situated between Mijas and Coín in the Sierra de Mijas, this course has majestic views of mountains to the north and Africa and the Mediterranean to the south.

La Qinta Golf and Country Club is home to the former World Champion Manuel Piñero’s Golf School. It is a technical course that reflects the designer, Manuel Piñero’s, own playing characteristics in that it rewards accuracy rather than long hitting.

Alcaidesa Golf is the best and only true links course in Spain. It has recently undergone an extensive programme of re- modelling with fairways being improved and widened and greens levelled off with the result that the layout is now suitable for golfers of all levels.

For further information on some of the best Golf Courses that the Costa del Sol has to offer visit costadelsol-vacationrentals.com where you will also find a lovely selection of villas and apartments to rent close to some of the best golf courses on the Costa.

Article submitted by Ruth Polak, the owner of costadelsol-vacationrentals.com which has a good selection of villas and apartments to rent near some great Costa del Sol Golf Courses.

Article Source: Play Golf on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Anchor Vehicle Logistics – AVL The Ultimate European Car Transport and Recovery Service · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Ford to Ferrari? Mazda to McLaren? Manchester to Malaga? London to Lisbon? You can rely on the professionals at AVL to transport your car anywhere in Europe and the UK.

With over 15 years’ experience, Anchor Vehicle Logistics (AVL) is one of Europe’s leading
car transport and European car recovery companies.

We provide safe, efficient, competitively priced transportation and recovery services throughout Europe and the UK. We currently collect and deliver over 150 cars a week with our most popular destinations being Spain, France, Portugal and Monaco.

Complete peace of mind

We understand that your car is important to you and we guarantee to treat your vehicle with the utmost care and respect. Your car will be fully insured to true market value, and we use the latest satellite tracking systems to monitor your vehicle throughout its journey.

Delivered wherever you want.

European holiday homes and UK residences
UK & European race tracks
Car dealerships and showrooms
Motor shows and new model launches
T.V. filming and advertising photo shoots

Open Car Transport Service

If you want to take your car abroad because of business, a holiday, or a permanent move, contacting AVL’s highly cost-effective open car transport service is the perfect answer.

You take the plane; we deliver to the airport, or some other convenient location. No exhausting sessions at the wheel, no night driving on unfamiliar roads, no overnight hotel bills, less wear and tear on your car, and on you.

Enclosed Car Transport

Some things are so precious; nothing can be left to chance. That’s why, 15 years ago, AVL Car Transport started its highly successful, Europe-wide covered car transport service. During this time, we have transported some of the world’s most prestigious cars, for a host of private collectors and commercial clients across the world.

With our fleet of purpose built, fully enclosed transporters that offer exceptional security, you can rest assured that your valued car will arrive on time, in pristine condition and with complete discretion.

European Car Recovery Specialists

If your big end goes on the Périphérique, if you have a serious shunt on the A-7 outside Malaga, if your engine seizes while you’re driving into Naples – there’s a place you can phone with absolute confidence – AVL European car recovery.

AVL Car Recovery is an efficient, Europe-wide service designed to resolve potentially disastrous situations, as quickly and as painlessly as possible. We guarantee to deliver your car safely back to the UK, or any other location in Europe. We organise and undertake vehicle recovery for all the major insurance companies, including:

Europe Assistance
RAC
AXA
AON Breakdown
Call Assist
International Breakdown
Mondial Assistance
Liverpool Victoria
Inter Mutuelles Assistance

Prestige Car Transport

People who own, deal in, or work with prestige cars, naturally, have the highest standards. That’s why they commission AVL’s prestige car transport to deliver their luxury vehicles to destinations across Europe.

AVL have experience delivering a wealth of high valued cars. For further details please see our website:

Ferrari Transport
Lamborghini Transport
Porsche Transport
Mercedes Transport
McLaren Transport
Aston Martin Transport
Bentley Transport
Rolls Royce Transport

Classic Car Transport

Owners of classic cars, as you might expect, want the best for their vehicles. When they commission AVL to transport their classic cars across Europe, they know their cars are safe in the hands of real classic car enthusiasts. Please see our classic car transport page on our company website for further details.

AVL European Car Transport Specialists

We can collect and deliver your vehicle to or from any area in Europe, including airports, your home, a holiday villa, holiday accommodation or a convenient location close by.

Car Transport Spain

If you’re looking for car transport to Spain because you’re moving to Spain permanently, or just taking a break to escape the British winters, you should be talking to AVL Car Transport.

Here are just a few of the destinations we travel to on a weekly basis: Alicante, Almeria, Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol and Madrid.

Car Transport France

The British love affair with France continues! At AVL Car Transport France we are delivering an increasing number of cars to Saint-Tropez, France – for holiday breaks, or because of permanent re-location.

Here are just a few of the destinations we travel to on a weekly basis: Paris, Le Mans, Nantes, Lyon, Nice and Cannes.

Car Transport Portugal

More and more people are discovering the delights of Portugal – a country that seems to have everything. A great climate, a lush interior dotted with picturesque towns, the historic city of Lisbon and the fabulous beaches and golf courses of the Algarve.

Here are just a few of the destinations we travel to on a weekly basis: Algarve, Lisbon, Porto and Faro.

Car Transport Monaco

The historic Principality of Monaco is often described as the jewel of the Mediterranean – a playground of the fabulously wealthy. The famous casino, the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Monte Carlo Rally, the Yacht Club de Monaco… need we say more! At AVL Car Transport, we understand that, if you’re living the lifestyle, you need your car – or cars!

Car Transport Germany

Whether you’re on business, taking a holiday or moving to a new home, AVL Car Transport will deliver your car with an efficiency even the Germans would appreciate – from the Baltic sea ports to the Ruhr, from the Black Forest to the villages of Bavaria.

AVL specialises in car transport to Germany. We’ve delivered thousands of cars to all parts of the country since our formation 15 years ago.

Here are just a few of the destinations we travel to on a weekly basis: Berlin, Hamburg etc.

Car Transport Holland

Holland is an inspiration – and at AVL Car Transport, we like people to be inspired. Whether you’re visiting, or setting up home, this small country has so much to see and do. From vibrant cities such as Amsterdam with the greatest concentration of art galleries and museums in Europe to the relaxing countryside with 17th century canals, medieval villages and spectacular fields of flowers.

Here are just a few of the destinations we travel to on a weekly basis: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven etc.

Car Transport UK

At the start of the 21st century, people are more mobile than ever before. They move to Europe – and they move back again to the UK. At AVL Car Transport, we’re geared up to handle this reverse traffic, efficiently and cost-effectively.

About the Author

K2L Marketing provide website design,Car transport, branding, print design, classic car transport, search engine optimisation and marketing consultation throughout the North West.

Article Source: Anchor Vehicle Logistics – AVL The Ultimate European Car Transport and Recovery Service · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Frigiliana Holidays on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Mucho More About Here: http://costadelsolmalaga.eu/

The Spanish village of Frigiliana is situated in the foothills of the Almijara mountain range, just 5km inland from the popular holiday destination of Nerja. It is also within an hours drive from the International airport at Malaga in southern Spain. Because airline companies now offer competitive flights to Malaga from many destinations around Europe, the opportunity to visit some of Spain’s most idyllic and charming villages has become easier than ever.


Frigiliana is one such village: a delight to explore, full of history and offers unbeatable Spanish charm. It has been voted one of the prettiest towns in the province of Malaga and it is easy to see why. It enjoys spectacular views of both the Almijara Mountains that form a beautiful backdrop to the village, and also the enclosed valley all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea.


The village has all the delights expected of a traditional Andalucia town with cobbled streets winding through white washed houses, decorated with vibrant colours from seasonal plants and flowers in bloom. With only around 2,000 permanent residents, Frigiliana is surprisingly blessed with many bars, restaurants and shops. The town centre is filled with small traditional townhouses, interspersed with idyllic shops selling textiles, rugs, leather goods, tiles, and local wines. There are also several excellent shops selling local pottery and ceramics, including decorative plates with distinctive Arab design.


There are also choice bars and restaurants to be found, some offering fantastic views of the mountains or the Costa del Sol, and some to relax and take in Spanish life. All offer traditional Andalucia cuisine and a fine selection of tapas. For anyone who has not tried Spanish local cuisine, a selection of tapas offers the opportunity to try several small dishes at an affordable price.


The surrounding countryside is also ideal to explore by foot, with the close river valley boasting fantastic views of the hillside scenery towering above, and a spectacular waterfall cascading down the rocks during the winter season. Slightly further along the valley can be found a seating area surrounded with trees, a flowing river and perhaps views of local wildlife.


The road from Nerja on the Costa leads straight into the heart of the town, and on approaching there are ample parking spaces all the way up to the village. There is a car park itself but the twenty of so spaces on offer never appear to be available. There is a large children’s play park and a street map displaying some of the more interesting attractions around the village.


Steeped in history with archaeological finds dating back to 3000BC, Frigiliana has been inhabited by many different civilisations including the Romans, Phoenicians and the Arabs. The Arab occupation has left the greatest impact on the village with much of the original Moorish architecture still apparent.


During the 16th Century there were many battles between the Moors and Christians in Andalucia, which culminated with the final expulsion of the Arabs with the battle of the Rock of Frigiliana in 1569. This historical rebellion between the local Moriscos in the village and surrounding area, and a Christian army led from Nerja was a particularly violent battle that is still remembered today. This fascinating story is depicted with twelve ceramic plaques posted on the corners of streets to be found within the village.


The Moorish influence is apparent throughout the town, and best enjoyed walking through the narrow cobbled passageways leading to the Mudejar district, one of the best-preserved areas of Moorish architectures in Andalucia.


The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua was built in the 17th Century by Don Bernado de Godoy, and was restored in 1976. Built in the Renaissance style, many of the original frescos can still be seen throughout, and the church houses three 17th century paintings of excellent quality. The plaque outside the entrance tells the full story of the construction.


Other sites of interest include the former Granary that was built in 1767 and a 16th century Renaissance Palace that has now been turned into a molasses factory. Another example of the Moors occupation can be found at the very top of the town with the remains of a Moorish castle.


There are many festivals celebrated in Spain, and if you are lucky enough to be in the village during the festivities, you will see this sleepy Spanish town burst into life with celebrations involving the whole town and everyone lucky enough to be visiting. One of the best fiestas to experience is the Frigiliana bull-run. A smaller version than the one held in Pamplona, both in size of attractions and in size of bulls, but nonetheless no less exciting for those participating.


Frigiliana, like many of the towns in the Axarquía region, benefits from a microclimate that offers average temperatures of 18C, so even during the months of winter, temperatures are expected mild with many crisp, blue skies. With excellent views over the Axarquía region, and the slopes of the Almijara Nature Park, Frigiliana is an excellent place to visit, explore and finally to relax in one of the bars or restaurants to appreciate the scenery and culture of this beautiful region.


But there’s no need to take my word for it. Apart from receiving many regional awards, it earned its most cherished prize in 1982, with 1st place for beautification in the whole of Spain from the ministry of tourism.


Steve Greenwood invites you to visit Frigiliana Holiday Property For Rent for accommodation and holiday attractions in Frigiliana. Visit http://www.idealrentals4u.com for holidays and accommodation in all the regions of Spain including the Canary Islands Fuerteventura, Tenerife and Lanzarote.

Article Source: Frigiliana Holidays on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

The Beauty of Andalucia · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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Andalucia, which is Spain’s southernmost autonomous community, is a place of unrivalled natural beauty. The state, which consists of eight provinces, each unique in its own offerings is rising up meteorically on everyone’s chart of the best tourist destinations in the world due to its varied and till now, untouched and undiscovered beauty. Andalucia’s natural beauty is unique in itself because it is one of those rare places on earth that offer mankind all the treasures of nature at one place. So while the region boasts of sandy beaches and untouched countryside villages on one hand, it is complemented by snow covered peaks and lush jungles on the other. Excellent weather, more than 3000 sunny hours an year, beautiful natural ports, awe inspiring historical monuments and inhabitants who are full of life and hospitality have made Andalusia one place where everybody wants to go. No wonder then, that the eight provinces of Andalucia– Cadiz, Cordoba, Almeria, Jaen, Granada, Huelva, Malaga and Seville-boast not just of a large number of tourists at any time of the year, but also of a varied cosmopolitan environment created by thousands of expatriates who have made this beautiful state their home. However, the people of this community, instead of taking away from the natural beauty of this place, have added to Andalucia’s charm because of their extremely tolerant, exuberant and fun loving nature. Andalucia’s untouched beauty has something to offer to everyone. While the coastlines of Cadiz and Huelva boast of Atlantic beaches and seas that are perfect for water sports, the coastline from Almeria to the Strait of Gibraltar offers a smooth sailing climate that perfect for nature and animal lovers. If you want more action then you can head towards the tourist centers of Costa del Sol, Costa Tropical, the Costa de la Luz and Costa Almeria along the region’s 900 kilometer coast line. There are a large number of places on the coast where whale Andalucian tourist spots are famous not just for their natural beauty, but also for their hip and happening social scene, discos, nightclubs and a large amount of celebrity population that keeps frequenting them. Sports lovers can have fun skiing on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range on indulging in a wide variety of water sports on the coast. On the other hand, if you want to experience the peace and quiet of the countryside, you can turn towards the famous “white villages” in the provinces of Seville, Cadiz, Granada and Cordoba, which transport modern day travelers to almost medieval villages where life seems to have stopped at a perfect point in time. The villages’ old world charm is peppered by scenes of natural beauty —lush green mountains, meadows and fields that reassure you that yes indeed, Andalucia is paradise on earth. If you are an adventure or nature lover, then a trip to at least one of the famous national parks is a must for you. Not only will you be able to see a large number of endangered species and other wild animals, the trek itself is an unforgettable adventure.

Find tips about dwarf willow tree and dappled willow at the Types Of Willow Trees website.

Article Source: The Beauty of Andalucia · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Torrox on the Costa del Sol, Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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It’s hard to spot Torrox on a map of Spain, even when you know roughly where you’re meant to be looking. This is because with a population of just a few thousand people, it’s never going to make a big impact on any map, but if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday on the Costa del Sol and a taste of some authentic Andalucia life, it may just be the destination of choice.

Torrox is found in the Spanish region of Andalucia located just 5km from the popular holiday resort of Nerja, and only 40km from the International airport at Malaga, making it ideally placed for travel around the region. The Sierra Nevada skiing resort near Granada can be reached within a 2-hour drive, as can the Rock of Gibraltar for those interested in visiting this wonderful corner of British history.

Torrox is split between Torrox Costa that lies on the Mediterranean coast and the inland village Torrox Pueblo located just 3km inland. Over the years both have been slowly migrating towards each other with the appearance of new properties and developments that follow the meandering road that connects the two. Both are quite different with the holiday attractions they offer, but together they provide the holiday visitor a good choice between beach activities and village life.

Torrox Pueblo is a whitewashed village that clings to the hillside like snow precariously hanging from a tree branch. It is how you would imagine a typical Andalucia village to be. Townhouses adorned with a dazzling array of flowering plants that follow narrow, winding streets with very few street names attached which if you’re not careful, will have you going round in circles trying to find your way back to where you started.

Much of the Pueblo has been carved with the influence of the Moorish occupation whose arrival in the 7th century brought with them new ways of agriculture, irrigation and land terracing which is still in existence today. Many of the Spanish still work the land producing many of the vegetables and exotic fruits you can find for sale outside the many small shops dotted throughout the village.

Around the village on various street corners can be found illustrated ceramic tiles depicting events of the Moorish occupation of the town. These are best found by taking the Almanzor Walk that begins from the Plaza de la Constitution and follows a route through the village taking in the main historical buildings. These include the baroque church of the Incarnacion, church of San Roque and chapel of Nuestra Senora de las Nieves, Mudejar in style and originating from the 16th century.

Details of the walk can be obtained from the small Tourist Information Office that can be found on Calle Baja, located just off the main square. Opening times are quite limited even during high season, but the best time to try is between 11am and 2pm midweek.

Life in Torrox Pueblo centres around the main Plaza de la Constitucion. The square is lined with vibrant orange trees and centred with an attractive water fountain. The sweet smell of Orange and relaxing sounds from the fountain add to the ambiance and tranquillity of the location. There is also a fine choice of bars and restaurants to choose from and some tasty local cuisine. By ordering a selection of tapas you have the opportunity to sample a wide range of local dishes at an excellent price. Life in the village is slow and relaxed and best appreciated here with good company.

Torrox Costa on the other hand offers a fine promenade lined with a good selection of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops that overlook a golden sandy beach. The only time it gets excessively busy here is during the month of August when it feels like all of Andalucia has come to the Costa to escape the fierce heat experienced further inland.

There are water activities available during the high season for those interested, and during the warm Summer evenings many stalls appear along the promenade selling a variety of goods including leather, textiles and ceramics.

Temperatures in Torrox soar during July, August and September to a very sticky 40C and more. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather with fantastic temperatures in the high 20s, remarkably consistent sunny days and a cool breeze that refreshes the air. Winter brings mostly sunny days which are fantastic for relaxing in a café bar looking over the Mediterranean Sea, but it does get remarkably chilly when the sun sets around 6pm. Snow never falls on the Costa del Sol. The closest you’ll get are the snow-tipped mountains of the Alpujara mountain range that provides a breathtaking backdrop to Torrox Pueblo as viewed from the Costa del Sol. It is no surprise Torrox has been voted as having the best climate in Europe.

Like all along the Costa del Sol, Torrox is a town constantly changing with the arrival of more and more tourists each year and a constant flow of English people wanting to find a better life outside of England. For such a small town so difficult to find on a map, it is certainly attracting a lot of attention.

Steve Greenwood has lived in Torrox on the Costa del Sol for 3 years. You are invited to visit Holiday rentals on the Costa del Sol for holiday accommodation, places to visit and things to do in Spain. Ideal Rentals (www.idealrentals4u.com) offers holiday information on all the regions of Spain including the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.

Article Source: Torrox on the Costa del Sol, Spain · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Spanish Golf Perks Up The Holiday Industry · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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As a pastime or sporting activity, golf, played on any fine course, certainly satisfies one’s need for embracing the great outdoors. The satisfaction quotient is definitely higher when you combine golf with a vacation. This is where Spain steps up admirably. The country offers holidaymakers myriad opportunities for enjoying the game and some sun, sand and surf.

One region known for great golf getaways is the “Coast of the Sun,” Costa del Sol. Located in the south of Spain, it is in the autonomous community of Andalucia. The area encompasses coastal towns and communities along the Mediterranean coast of Malaga province. The city of Malaga is in this popular tourist region.

The region is home to approximately 60 lush golf resorts from Sotogrande in the west to Velez Malaga in the east. Combined, these golf destinations contribute significantly to Spain’s tourist economy.

The lure for golfers in Costa del Sol is the dry, sunny weather conducive to pleasurable playing. Golfing in Costa del Sol in the winter is the perfect antidote to the grey, cold climates of northern Europe, and competes for gofers in the winter months with Lanzarote

With golf’s popularity growing significantly in the past 20 years, the influx of tourist euros grows too. Golf vacation providers work hard to attract clientele their way. For golfers, some providers offer personalized green fee booking at some of the finest courses in Costa del Sol and other regions. Competition for holidaymakers’ euros is intense, so bargains await those looking to golf in the region.

Preferred bookings at discount prices signify the high demand for tee times in these exotic locales. Often, golfers can obtain special rates if they book golf course times in conjunction with accommodations or other services. Vacation golf packages abound on the Internet offering packages to golf in Antequera, Benalmadena, Marbella’s Golden Mile and more.

The effect on Spain’s economy in general and Cost del Sol’s in particular is easily measurable. The golf courses and resorts benefit, but so do other sectors of the economy. The golf courses bring increased business to accommodation providers, restaurants, cafés, clubs and transportation providers in Costa del Sol and its environs. Recognizing the importance of golf tourism, Spain has the welcome mat out to ensure golfers come in hordes.

Tourists descend on the Malaga airport, a bustling hub of activity, and major employment provider. Taxis and public transportation also benefit from the diverse holidaymakers who make their way to this vibrant resort region. With golfers galore arriving in Costa del Sol, attractions such as the Benalmadena Aerial Cable Car benefit. The Picasso Museum in Malaga and the shops along the street of San Miguel in Torremolinos also benefit.

Many of the golf courses have stunning views of the sea and mountains. In addition, the variety of courses available to play offers much choice to golfers. The areas golf courses are suitable for players of all levels.

East of Malaga are courses such as the Baviera Golf Club and the Anoreta Golf Club. The Guadalhorce, Lauro, Malaga Parador and El Candado golf clubs are available in Malaga for golf enthusiasts. There’s also the Torrequebrada Golf Club in Benalmadena Costa and the Alhaurin Golf facility between Mijas and Coin.

In Sotogrande, there’s the La Reserva de Sotogrande course. The La Duquesa Golf and Country Club sits between Sotogrande and Estepona. In addition, the Atalaya Golf and Country Club is in Estepona, as is the El Paraiso Golf Club. These golf options are a small sampling of the host of courses available in the region.

The province of Malaga has the most extensive network of hotels in Spain. The area offers other activities for golfers to engage in when away from the links. Water sports are popular and 11 marinas exist on the Costa del Sol. A pulsating nightlife, top-notch restaurants and stylish boutiques and shops contribute to the ambience of the region.

The Costa del Sol golfing continues to refresh tourists and the Spanish economy. The sport provides enjoyment and employment throughout the region. With inviting and challenging golf courses and more, Spain’s Costa del Sol is scoring a hole-in-one with tourists.

About the Author

More information about the Spanish island of Lanzarote and Lanzarote holiday news can be found with yourlanzarote.net

The Spanish island climate and the weather in Lanzarote are available too.

Article Source: Spanish Golf Perks Up The Holiday Industry · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Discover The Top Attractions Of Malaga · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

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The city of Malaga is located at the centre of the Costa Del Sol Region and has all the ingredients required for a wonderful holiday. The Malaga region boasts the highest average temperatures throughout Spain and enjoys around 300 days of sunshine every year! Not only does it have attractive beaches, but also being the birthplace of Picasso means the city is immersed in culture and its Moorish past gives the region many wonderful attractions to explore. Interested? Then read on for more…
Wonderful Beaches: The Malaga coastline is home to some fantastic golden sandy beaches – what could be better than sun worshipping at one or more of these beaches! The city’s best beaches are Las Acacias, El Palo and Plata de la Malagueta. If you want to get away from the city, why not utilise your car rental and head to Playa Torrox to the north or Velez’s beach Playa Banajarafe.

Take A Picasso Tour of Malaga: Esteemed artist Pablo Picasso is a native of Malaga, and a visit to the galleries of the city will bring you right up to speed with his moody, unpredictable and downright fascinating works. Check out the Museum of Fine Arts, which is adjacent to the Cathedral and you will see for yourself! A visit to his birthplace in Plaza Merced will enable you to learn all about his life in the visitor centre. Entrance is free to a large number of exhibitions and video shows.

The Museo Picasso Malaga is a wonderful place to experience the life’s work of Picasso. This museum is situated in a converted old palace, thus adding to the authenticity of the experience. The wonderful work of the artist is celebrated in both the décor and works on display in the Museum. Generous donations of the work of Picasso from his wife and family to the Museum faculty have made it an even better place to visit. Don’t forget to make a trip to the Picasso Foundation (Fundación Picasso) – located in the historic quarter of the city. Pablo Picasso and his family lived in this building for a time on the second floor.

La Alcazaba: The landmark of the city, this military fortress was constructed by the Moorish inhabitants in the 11th century, and was the palace for the Nazarite Kings. Its strategic position offers a magnificent views of the city skyline and the sea. The original structure of the fortress has three walls for protection, of which only two remain today. There are more than 100 towers in La Alcazaba and the upper section once had a residential area, with three palaces.

Castillo de Gibralfaro: If you are visiting La Alcazaba, you cannot miss this castle, as it is located right next to it. The castle dates back to the start of the 14th century, when it was built by King Yusef I of Granada on the site of lighthouse built by the Phoenicians. All that remains of the castle today is the ramparts, which you can see in the pine foliage outside.

The Roman Theatre: Located just below La Alcazaba but amazingly was not discovered until the early 1950s. Archaelogical studies have shown that the theatre has not been used since the early 3rd century. During the construction of La Alcazaba, the Moors most probably used parts from the Theatre.

Malaga Cathedral: Malaga Cathedral was built over a 250 year period at the site of a previous mosque up to 1782. Known as “La Manquita” (one armed woman) as it has only one tower, not two which was originally planned. There is a mixture of construction styles, with the Renaissance style being most prevalent. Gothic and Baroque styles are also to be seen. The styles, and the inside construction will astound all visitors, with its impressive beauty.

Other Churches you should consider visiting are Sagrario Church (15th century) for its impressive altar, the Santiago Church, created in Arab and Gothic styles, and the Bishops Palace (Palacio Episcopal) which represents the typical Malagueñean architectural style from that period.

Tivoli World: This is a theme park aimed at children and older children such as adults! There are many exciting rides and family shows to enjoy and a visit to Tivoli World represents a great day out for all of the family.

Historical Buildings Still In Use: In Malaga there are plenty of buildings that represent historical value but are still in use today:
· Palace Marqués de Valdeflores – built in the 18th century as an exhibition hall, but now used by the government.
· Malaga Bullfighting Ring: Constructed in 1874 and holds almost 15,000 people.
· The Town Hall – built over a 7 year period to 1919, and is used by the local council.
· House of the Consulate – situated on Plaza de la Constitución, it was constructed in the 18th century and is considered a national monument.
· The Customs Palace (Palacio de la Aduana) – this palace was built in a neo classical style in the 18th century and today is the headquarters of the regional government.
· For wonderful gardens and relaxing walks check out the Alameda Gardens in the city centre.

Today Malaga is a bustling, modern city of which Calle Larios is the most dominant street. This is close to Malaga Cathedral. Calle Larios is located close to attractive back streets, with wonderful restaurants and café bars to be found. All in all, Malaga is a wonderful place to enjoy your summer vacation.

Thinking of heading to enjoy what Malaga has to offer at your own relaxed pace? You would be well advised to secure a great value, high quality rental car. Heading to Malaga on holidays? Visit Novacarhire.com’s Car hire Malaga Airport page and get an instant quote which will offer you the best deals from top car rental providers.

About the Author

John writes for Novacarhire.com – an independent car hire reservation website where you can book low cost car hire at over 5,000 locations worldwide.

Article Source: Discover The Top Attractions Of Malaga · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Holidaying On The Costa Del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Mucho More About Here: http://costadelsolmalaga.eu/

Often people want to just want to take a holiday to have a break from their monotonous work life and their mundane day to day living. Holidays are indeed one of the best ways to rejuvenate the body both physically and mentally. One of the key ingredients to a good holiday is good accommodation, people need places to stay for a few hours, days or even weeks. These places can be apartments, hotels or a friends’ place. Everyone people want their place of stay to be just right.

If you’re visiting the Costa del Sol then the chances are the best solution to the above requirements is to rent a villa. Villas on the Costa del Sol are magnificent, with various sizes to fit most group sizes. Villas by the beach are something to think about, imagine the scenic sun set or sun rise, it is just beautiful even thinking about. The Costa del Sol in southern Spain is a one of the most popular resorts for British tourists and expats.

If you are looking forward to a holiday in Costa del Sol, it is imperative that you consider renting a villa. Apartments may also be rented, but most villas tend to be considered more homely, very luxurious and offer first class accommodation. Many people are often found returning to the Costa del Sol because of the villas that are available there.


There is such as vast number of different villas available in the Costa del Sol, that there’s bound to be one that fits your requirements. There are villas with 6 bathrooms and bedrooms. Basically such kinds of villas are for people with a very big family or a large group. These villas generally have a swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace where people can sunbathe. Most villas are air conditioned and have sumptuous living accommodation. The kitchens or dining rooms may have large tables where a number of people can be seated. These villas also often come with music system, satellite television and of course DVD players. All this adds to the ambience and total relaxation to be enjoyed. In places if the weather is pleasant and clear, you can actually view North Africa! What has been explained is just one type of the many villas you can view, but there are many fantastic ones available to rent.


Villas range from £100 to £2500 per week depending upon the size and season. All villas offer good value for money. Every pound you pay is absolutely worth spending. So based on this knowledge, plan a proper holiday and get the most out of it. While returning to your regular life, you will feel more alive and energetic and will get back with a sense of achieving something great in life. Treat yourself and take a holiday on the Costa del Sol.

Article Source: Holidaying On The Costa Del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Golfing Facilities on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU

Mucho More About Here: http://costadelsolmalaga.eu/

A talk about Spanish property investment is never complete without mentioning its golfing culture. The golf facilities in the Costa del Sol, Spain are simply outstanding. You cannot hope for a better place to invest in the Spanish property than Costa del Sol, if golfing adventures is a prime consideration. With over 60 golf resorts and courses in and around Costa del Sol, the place is fondly called Costa del Golf! And if you are thinking that you can wait for some time for the real estate market to ease up before you can buy one of those prime golf properties, wake up! An estimated over 200,000 properties, including the golf properties are already owned by foreigners, and most of them by European investors looking for a premier destination to park their money profitably.

Another reason to make quick decision about investing in golfing property in the region is the fast increasing property prices all across Costa del Sol. After a lull, the markets are steadily witnessing a rise in the real estate prices. And the most promising results of all the properties are shown by the golfing property in the Costa del Sol. Even if you don’t want to stay in Spain for long, you can always bank on the promising rental potential in the Costa del Sol golfing property. Therefore, it won’t be a good idea to wait for too long to grab your share of golfing property pie in this gorgeous place under the Sun.

Let’s have a look at some of the excellent golf facilities in the Costa del Sol:

1. Baviera Golf Club: Situated near Caleta de Velez Malaga, Baviera Golf Club lies pristinely on the foothills of the Sierra de la Almijara. This 18-hole (par 72) golf course presents heavenly views of mountains and sea. Designed by Jose Maria Cañizares, Baviera is ideally suited for all handicaps. The course also has some water hazards to negotiate. But a good player can easily make low scores, courtesy its large greens and wide fairways. While you are looking for golf property investments in Costa del Sol, this giant 5,910 m golf club can never be ignored.
2. Alhaurin: This Steve Ballesteros signature golf course is an absolute delight to play golf at. Situated in the lap of the Mijas Mountains, this 18-hole (par 72) golf course actually boasts of 45 holes. In addition to the customary 18-hole course for adults, there is a 9-hole (par 3) course and another 18-hole children course, making it a huge golf complex. This golf course is a testing one for adults and accuracy is vital to conquer the challenging greens. The distracting mountains and sea views do not help either. The clubhouse boasts of excellent facilities, like a restaurant and bar, a golf school, clubs, trolleys, buggy hire, and a driving range with practice bunkers and greens.
3. Los Flamingos: Perhaps the most beautiful golf course in the whole of Spain, Los Flamingos offers some of the best views of the Mediterranean. On clear days, you can also see even Africa across the horizon. This 18-hole (par 72) pristine golf course is situated amidst cypresses, oranges, jacarandas, pines, olives, and chestnuts. Inspired by the Tuscan garden design, Los Flamingos clubhouse has some of the best facilities, like a terrace bar and coffee shop, and the famous La Cantina restaurant for a fine dining experience. Designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido, this golf course is 5,907 m long.
4. Atalaya Golf and Country Club: Atalaya is one of those rare golf courses that offer two well-maintained 18-hole (par 72) courses. Interestingly, this golf club is the headquarters of the PGA of Europe. Located between the picturesque Marbella and Estepona, Atalaya has one of Spain’s largest driving ranges. The old course (6,142 m) has gentle slopes and lots of trees and vegetation, while the new course (5,325 m) has a breathtaking layout.
5. Alcaidesa Links: Situated between Sotogrande and Algeciras, this beautiful golf course is Costa del Sol’s westernmost course with 18-hole (par 72) greens. Designed by Peter Allis and Clive Clark, Alcaidesa golf course is surrounded by woodlands and beaches offering magnificent sea views and even Gibraltar is clearly visible from this paradisiacal golf course.

These are just some of the golf facilities that you can explore in Costa del Sol. Undoubtedly, the golf property around these facilities has to be counted among the premium properties in Spain. Time to invest in these properties in NOW!

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About the Author

Frank Crowley Azure Overseas Ltd

Overseas Property Investment Specialists View overseas property for sale or View cheap property abroad

Article Source: Golfing Facilities on the Costa del Sol · Costa Del Sol Malaga EU