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The Old Quarter - Malaga








Malaga is the second largest city in Southern Spain, after Sevilla, and the Capital of the Costa Del Sol. With a population of around 650.000 inhabitants it is recognised as having the best climate for any city of its size in Europe.

Of the many hundreds of thousands of visitors to the province of Malaga each year many will not venture into Malaga itself, which is a great shame as the city has been transformed over the past few years, specially the historic quarter. 

Malaga is also the grand father to the popular surrounding holiday resorts which lay east of the city, including Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola and the chic resort of Marbella.

The cultural heritage of Malaga can now take centre stage and is home to the Picasso Museum which is housed in the beautiful old Palacio de la Bellavista. Picasso is probably Malagas most famous son and the impressive Picasso museum is testament to that fact. Around 150 pieces of Picassos are exhibited on two floors and include paintings, drawings, sculptures and lithographs.

The house where Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born is located on the Plaza de la Merced, 3 minutes walk from the museum. There you can see things relating to the life and work from all the different periods of his exceptional life and is an interesting stop over even if art is not your thing.

Proudly watching over this cosmopolitan capital is the Castillo de Gibralfaro and the Alcazaba ( Moorish fortress ). The castle dates back to the 14th century and has pretty fountains and fine manicured gardens whilst the origins of the Alcazaba date to the 11th century, both have impressive views over Malaga, the port area and the Mediterranean sea.

The historic Malaga Cathedral is affectionately known as La Manguita the one armed lady, as only one of the two planned towers where ever finished.
The old part of Malaga is the most interesting area and is located two minutes walk from the new port all around the Cathedral. The narrow streets which wind off in all directions from Larios Street ooze Andalucian charm, the area is perfect for afternoon walks, specially in the in spring and summer months where you will come across some of the best restaurants and Tapas bars in the area which sit alide historic buildings such as the Picasso Museum and charming old Andalucian plazas.
Malaga is the second largest city in Southern Spain, after Sevilla, and the Capital of the Costa Del Sol. With a population of ar...

The Ronda Parador - A Unique Hotel in the heart of Malaga


The first luxury Parador hotel was built in 1926 and created by King Alfonso X111 in a bid to use quality tourism as a guardian of the national and artistic heritage of Spain and to assist regions that had fewer economic resources.

There are around 90 paradors scattered all over Spain and can be found in the most privileged locations such as Castles, Palaces, Fortresses, Convents, Monasteries and other historic buildings. 

One of these unique paradors is located in the centre of Ronda, located some 60 kms north west from Marbella on the Costa del Sol. It was formerly the cities Town Hall and is located right next to the Puente Nuevo, one of Southern Spains most visited national monuments, and if you visit Ronda you will immediately understand why it is such a popular destination for visitors to the area. 

The views out from the hotels are stunning, specially if your room looks directly down to the bottom of the gorge some 120 meters below.

Local cuisine is always on offer et every Parador around Spain and this one is no exception, here you will find quality elaborated dishes such as ajo blanco a cold garlic soup, Conejo a la Rodea a rabbit and almond soup, one of my favourites is Salmorejo a thicker type of Gaspacho soup topped off with local olive oil and cured jam.

And for those of you with a sweet tooth you must try "Yemas Rondenas" (sweet egg yolk flans) these are very addictive, "Queso de Almendras" (almonds and cheese) and ), "Tortitas de Miel"

( large honey biscuits ).

If you like exploring every nook and cranny of historic towns on foot, then Ronda is for you. Apart from the Puente Nuevo there is a long list of must visit places around Ronda including the bullring, the Cathedral, the Minaret of San Sebastian, Mondragon Palace, the prehistoric paintings of the Pileta cave, Arabic Baths, Museo Lara and the mercadillo quarter of the town. And for something different why not walk down ( and up again !) the 365 steps of the Mina stairway which was cut by the Christian slaves in the fourteenth century.

The Ronda Parador offers private balconies in each of the 78 rooms available , many offering views of the surrounding mountains.

The first luxury Parador hotel was built in 1926 and created by King Alfonso X111 in a bid to use quality tourism as a guardian of the n...

Antequera - In the heart of Andalucia




Antequera is spread out over the plains of La Vega where rich farmlands are irrigated by the Guadalhorce River which for centuries has been one of Andalucias most fertile areas currently harvesting cereals, asparagus, olives, fruit and sunflowers.

It is overlooked by a huge crag of limestone over 800 meters high called La Pe�a de los Enmorados ( Lovers Leap ). The name is derived from a local legend regarding the impossible love affair between a young Christian and a Moorish girl from nearby Archidona who after been sought and found by the girls father where driven to the top of the cliff where sadly rather than be separated from a life of love together chose to launch themselves into the abyss and to certain death, a statue in the Plaza de Castilla was recently erected to commemorate this historic act of despair.

The Pe�a also fascinatingly resembles a head, said to be of an Indian warrior laying down which gave rise to its other well known other name of the Cabeza del Indio. The rock is visible from many kilometers in every direction and seems to watch over the fertile plains and town jealously guarding every movement within site of such a natural grandeur.

Antequera is within easy reach of the Malaga capital and all the major seaside resorts along the Costa del Sol one of Spain top tourism hot spots..

Antequera is spread out over the plains of La Vega where rich farmlands are irrigated by the Guadalhorce River which for centuries has been ...

The new "Ave" High Speed Train Arrives in Malaga



The long awaited train " El Ave " has finally commenced its high speed service between Malaga and Madrid cutting travel times via rail to just two and a half hours.

RENFE the rail network providers in Spain have also promised refunds on fares if the service arrives between 15 to 30 minutes later than scheduled, if the delay ( which must be attributed to Renfe ) is more than one hour a full refund has been guaranteed by them.

Extra discounts of up to 50% are being offered if you book early either at any of the Renfe Stations or online. So if your Spanish is good and your feeling brave you can book online here.

Not only is the train mind blowingly fast its also extremely modern and comfortable.

This incredibly fast travel service will undoubtedly provide many positive possibilities for the residents of Malaga and surrounding areas. New business opportunities will inevitably be created as investors from the north open up new commercial ties with the Costa del Sol not to mention the increase in tourism which is epected. I am also sure that many people residing in the Malaga area may have never visited Spains capital due mainly being put off by the 5 to 7 hour travel time by car or the higher cost via air.

Madrid is a great place to spend a weekend as it offers everything an historic and vibrant city does, from superb monuments to places of great cultural interest to fine dining and an excellent and exciting nightlife.


The long awaited train " El Ave " has finally commenced its high speed service between Malaga and Madrid cutting travel times via...

The Cunards Queen Victoria in Malaga


The majestic cuise liner the Queen Victoria recently visited Malaga on her second Spanish stage if its inaugural voyage. She is the third Cunard queen and as you would expect oozes luxury for all who will be lucky enough to sail on her.
The Queen "Vic" and the QE2 will be departing shortly for a a rare nautical meeting and celebration in New York.

The Port of Malaga has always been a major stop over for many a cruise liner, however due to the increased success of the cruising industry over recent years and the ever growing passenger numbers visiting g the capital of the Costa del Sol a new terminal is almost completed and should be fully functional by January 2008.

The majestic cuise liner the Queen Victoria recently visited Malaga on her second Spanish stage if its inaugural voyage. She is the third C...

Costa del Sol - Holidays in Nerja, Marbella, Fuengirola

The Costa del Sol in southern Spain is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe. You can choose from 800km of beaches, world-renowned holiday resorts, the warm Mediterranean Sea or the lively Atlantic Ocean. The Costa del Sol runs most the length of Andalucia, the largest region in Spain, from Almeria to Gibraltar. With such wonderful weather and crisp blue skies, the Costa del Sol is a fantastic choice for a beach holiday in Spain.

West of Malaga, are the popular seaside resorts of Marbella, Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Estepona. These resorts have an upmarket image and prices are generally higher here than other holiday locations along the Costa del Sol. The beaches here are fantastic and the nightlife lively and outgoing. There are many fine shops from expensive boutiques to popular apartment stores to choose from.

Marbella was once a quiet fishing village on the Costa del Sol with a charm and character all of it�s own. Now of course it is a fabulous holiday destination for many people who are attracted by its sophisticated and upmarket image. Marbella has always been a favourite with the rich and famous and with each passing year becomes increasingly more so. There are great efforts to keep Marbella clean and attractive, and the wonderful beach promenade is now lined with palm trees, flowered borders, and lush colourful plants. There are also many restaurants and bars from which to appreciate how beautiful the city has become.

Fuengirola is popular with holidaymakers and Spanish alike, many of whom own summer apartments to take advantage of its semi-tropical climate and mild temperatures during the winter. Fuengirola has 5 miles of beautiful sandy beaches overlooked by high rise hotels and apartment blocks all affording magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea. Overlooking the Sea, the promenade is tastefully designed with palm-trees, flowerbeds and numerous places to relax and enjoy the views.

Along the other stretch of the Costa del Sol, east of Malaga, can be found the idyllic villages of Nerja, Frigiliana and Torrox. Throughout this part of the region can be found numerous small, whitewashed villages, either clinging to the hillside, or built around a small fishing port, of which Nerja is the most popular. Frigiliana and Torrox are becoming increasingly popular as tourist destinations, and for a taste of working life in Spain; these towns are a good place to start. Visit the Balcon de Europa in Nerja with its panoramic views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, or relax in the Plaza de Constitution in Torrox, next to the fountain, surrounded by orange trees.

Some of the best places to shop will be the old quarter, typically in the centre of the town and characterised with narrow winding streets lined with small shops selling a variety of local produce. Take the time to wander the streets for a taste of real Spanish life. Away from the tourist gift shops and beach cafes can be found some excellent shops and places to eat, typically at reduced prices but not quality.

The Costa del Sol is so much more than just world-class beaches and fantastic weather. Andalucia is the largest region in Spain and a pleasure to discover, offering a wealth of culture, historical cities, regional celebrations and a different way to live. Spend a day away from the beach to get to know the real Spain for a true holiday experience.

Steve Greenwood

http://www.idealrentals4u.com/
The Costa del Sol in southern Spain is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe. You can choose from 800km of beaches, world-...

Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol in Southern Spain


You might have already visited Fuengirola in summer - too many people, burning summer heat? Time to replan your Spanish holiday!

The ideal time to visit this vibrant coastal city is during autumn and spring. Mild and pleasant temperatures, glorious sunshine, and quieter streets and beaches make for a really enjoyable holiday! You will find people smile just that little bit easier, shopping and dining are an absolute pleasure, and you can enjoy all the attractions this city has to offer in comfort. Wonderful sandy beaches, relatively empty out of season, stretch along the coast with many restaurants, bars and chiringuitos (beach cafes) to choose from. Plenty of good shops including fashion, food, shoes, etc. and some excellent new shopping centres have opened up on the border of Fuengirola and Mijas. Fuengirola is very convenient to Malaga airport - a short drive or train ride away, and is also close to Marbella and other attractions on the Costa del Sol (also known as the Costa del Golf for golfing fans!)

Other major attractions in Fuengirola include:

The Fuengirola Zoo: Right in the middle of town is an oasis of calm, a world class zoo with wonderful animals in very natural enclosures. Appropriate regional sounds play as you walk around the various areas of the zoo. Of particular interest are the Sumatra Tigers, the gorillas, and also the Lemur enclosure, with many of these fascinating creatures from Magagascar. This enclosure is open with a tour guide at certain times of the day - ask when you arrive at the zoo for a close up experience with magical lemurs. Best time to visit is either early morning (zoo opens at 10 am) or late afternoon.

The Sohail Castle: On a hilltop, close to the centre of town is the Sohail Castle. Makes a pleasant stroll (if a bit uphill), with wonderful sea views from the top.

Fuengirola Port: The port of Fuengirola consists of two sections: 1. A working fishing port where it is fascinating to watch the fishermen offloading their catches from the boats - you can also take a pleasant stroll around the port from this point and look at the many boats moored in the port, and also magnificent mountain views. 2. A leisure boat marina, with many attractive yachts and other boats. In this area are several pubs and restaurants, and also enjoyable boat trips are on offer, including sailing boats and glass bottomed boats for viewing the dolphins.

So come and visit Fuengirola and enjoy our city in the so called "off season"! You won't regret it, and will have a wonderful holiday!

Anne Sewell

Homepage:

http://www.allspainaccommodation.com/

I have been involved in the travel industry online for 10 years, running several websites for accommodation reservations worldwide. Also a keen amateur photographer.
You might have already visited Fuengirola in summer - too many people, burning summer heat? Time to replan your Spanish holiday! The ideal t...
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