Malta

The Republic of Malta is an archipelago of seven islands situated centrally in the Mediterranean Sea, around 93 kilometres south of Sicily and 288 kilometres north of the African coast. The three main islands are Malta itself, Gozo and Comino, the total population is about 420,000 quite high for its relatively small area of just 316 square kilometres. Boasting 7,000 years of captivating history, Malta is a great location for culture hounds who will find plenty to interest and amaze them, sun lovers will also not be disappointed with Malta weather being wonderfully sunny and dry for most of the year, hot summers, followed by mild pleasant winters, beach lovers are also well catered for as Malta’s 200 kilometres of coastline is studded with beautiful sandy beaches. Most impressive of Malta’s attributes is its friendly population, who always have a smile and a warm welcome for visitors to the island. Malta Map.

Algarve Resorts – Albufeira

Around 35 kilometres west of Faro on the Algarve, Portugal, the town of Albufeira used to be a traditional fishing village, typical of the area. In recent years it has grown into one of Portugal’s main tourist destinations, resulting in much development and growth in the town. You can still find much of the original fishing village, with narrow winding streets and alleys, lined with whitewashed houses and cottages. Many visiting today would think it a modern resort, but Albufeira can trace its origins back to Roman times and beyond when Phoenicians, Greeks and Carthaginians stopped off here on their travels around the coast. The Romans called the town Baltum and there are still some remains of aqueducts and walls, built by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. The Moors developed the area for agriculture and also a significant fishing industry flourished over the ensueing centuries. 1755 was a bad year for Portugal and for Albufeira in particular, as a huge earthquake rocked the region and virtually destroyed the town. The main attraction these days are the fine sandy beaches and luxury hotels, where visitors can relax and enjoy the wonderful Albufeira weather in preparation for a night out along the famous “Strip”, located in the Montechoro district of the town. Albufeira boasts over 170 hotels of all standards many are aparthotels such as the Ondamar Aparthotel Albufeira which offers a good standard of accommodation in relaxed surroundings, and would be an ideal choice for your Albufeira holidays. If beaches are your thing, then you will not be disappointed by Albufeira, as there are at least 20 wonderful beaches within easy reach of the resort, two of the best being Praia de Oura and Praia de Gale, others include Praia do Castelo, Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Evaristo. Albufeira can be easily reached from Faro airport which is about 40 minutes drive away. You can view a map of Albufeira here: Map of Albufeira.

Resorts of the Costa Adeje Tenerife

Located on the west coast of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain, are a couple of popular holiday resorts which attract thousands of visitors each year. On a stretch of coast known as the Costa Adeje, Playa Paraiso and Playa Fanabe, though close together are somewhat different in nature. Playa Paraiso (translates as Paradise Beach), despite its name hardly has a beach, but this does not put off holidaymakers as this is more than made up for by the superb saltwater lido around which life in the resort revolves. Playa Paraiso is a built for tourism destination and is an all year round resort enjoying a fabulous climate, even during the winter months. A little to the south of Playa Paraiso is the town of Fanabe and its coastal area, Playa Fanabe, now Playa Fanabe is in distinct contrast to Playa Paraiso as it has a wonderful beach, wide and sandy, with plenty of water sports facilities and a good selection of bars and restaurants. So if you like the beach and area a fan of the sand Playa Fanabe may be your first choice from the two, if you hate the sand and the sea, you may prefer to head for Playa Paraiso, just 2 resorts to consider on a trip to Tenerife, a little further south is the huge resort of Playa de las Americas, but that is another story!.

Lanzarote’s Capital Arrecife

One of the largest cities in the Canary Islands, Arrecife became the capital of Lanzarote in 1852 and today has a population of 127,000, though this can increase considerably during the busy season, as Arrecife is a prime destination for tourists to this popular island. Arrecife is the location of Lanzarote’s International Airport, which I situated about 3 kilometres from the city centre in an area known locally as Guacimeta. Arrecife has a number of interesting places to visit and we shall start with El Charco (often called ‘The Puddle’), a lagoon near the centre of the city, which is a popular place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some narrow little streets run from El Charco and from here you can reach the San Gines church sitting in an attractive square, which is also the site of many a fiesta and celebration, nearby is the fish market. Arrecife boasts 2 castles, constructed during the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries to defend the city against attacks by Barbary pirates, the Castillo de San Jose is now an art museum and the older Castillo San Gabriel also houses a small museum. The main shopping area is centred around the Calle Leon y Castillo precinct, located to the north of El Charco. Arrecife’s beach is known as Playa del Reducto and the promenade behind the beach can now be followed all the way to the busy resort of Puerto del Carmen. Arrecife enjoys a wonderful all year round climate, with the most pleasant weather experienced during the UK’s winter months. Map of Arrecife.

The Northern Towns of Mallorca

Starting in the extreme north of Mallorca at the Cap de Formentor, located on a long headland at the northern end of the Serra de Tramunana mountains, the Formentor Peninsular is an area of steep cliffs rising to a height of 1,300 feet. From here you can enjoy some breathtaking views of the sea and coastline, you may even catch a glimpse of the neighbouring island of Menorca on a clear day, you can also enjoy the varied birdlife, many species nest in this rugged and remote area. Some of the best views can be enjoyed from the Mirador des Colomer, look out for the Talaja de Albercutx, a 16^th century watchtower built to look out for invading pirates.

The historic town of Pollensa (Pollença), situated in the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana, was founded by the Romans, it is still relatively unspoilt and retains much of its traditional Mallorcan charm. Worth a visit in Pollensa is the parish church of Nostra Senyora dels Angels, originally built by the Nights Templar in the 13^th century, the Municipal Museum, houses in the former Convent de Santo Domingo, the Plaça Major (Main Square) where you can enjoy a coffee in one of the many traditional cafés, the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross), leading to the El Calvari chapel and the Ponte Romà, claimed to be a Roman bridge but probably much later. Pollensa itself is an inland town, placed to protect it from raiding pirates, its coastal limb being Puerto Pollensa, these days a busy holiday resort, attracting families to its excellent sandy beach and attractive harbour.

Another of the northern town of Mallorca and probably one of the oldest is Alcudia, originally a Phoenician settlement, it was rebuilt by the Romans and called Pollentia and subsequently became the capital of Mallorca until sacked and destroyed by the Vandals in 456 AD. The present name Alcudia originates from the Arab occupation, when their fortress Al-Kudia was built there. Worth a look in Alcudia is the port area, the 13^th century Gothic church of Sant Jaume, the remains of a Roman theatre from the 1^st century BC (the smallest Roman theatre in Spain), the Porta de Moll gateway and the Museu Monographic, with some interesting exhibits from the Roman occupation.

Also worth visiting whilst in the north of Mallorca is the Monastery of Lluc, a place of pilgrimage for over 800 years, the Natural Park of S’Albufera, an important area of wetlands to the south of Port d’Alcudia and the agricultural town of Muro, dominated by the huge Gothic church of Sant Joan Baptista.

Torrevieja and the Property Market

One of the best known towns on the southern Costa Blanca, Spain, Torrevieja has grown a great deal during the last 20 years or so. Most of the development has been due to the growing demand for holiday homes in the sun and Torrevieja has been pushed by many of the top estate agents as “the place to be”. There is certainly much to commend the town, not least the wonderful climate which it experiences, to be precise it is a unique micro-climate, influenced by the huge salt lake to the rear of the town, the resulting Torrevieja weather making it one of the healthiest places in the world to live (as stated by the World Health Organisation). The current recession in the UK and the downturn in house sales in the Costa Blanca and Spain in general has changed the situation in Torrevieja somewhat and the Torrevieja property market have ground to an alarming halt. The situation is obvious to those living in the area as the majority of building projects have also come to a halt after years of continuous action. In the long run this may help the resales market although very few buyers are about at the moment and those that are investing are looking for real bargains. There certainly are bargains to be had as many UK residents bought property as an investment or second home and have found that their mortgages in the UK have gone up as well as their mortgages in Spain and they can no longer afford two properties. Many are selling and in order to sell have had to reduce prices drastically, possibly even losing money on their original purchase in order to offload the property. Is now a good time to buy? Who knows, prices look set to fall further and it will probably be another year before things level off and maybe begin to pick up, but if you have cash to spend you could find yourself a real steal in the current Torrevieja house market. Torrevieja Map.

The Mallorca Town of Alcudia

Well worth a visit on a holiday in Mallorca is the northern town of Alcudia and its harbour area Port D’Alcudia. Less touristy than the southern resorts, Alcudia also has a bit of history to go with its 6 miles or so of coast and beaches. An old walled town, Alcudia Mallorca was for centuries the target of pirate raids and many of its ancient fortifications can still be seen today, the sturdy church of Sant Jaume (Saint James) forms part of these medieval walls. In the busy Port D’Alcudia you will find fishing and pleasure craft along with Naval and commercial vessels, as this is still a working port, it is also where most of the tourist facilities are located including plenty of bars and restaurants where you can eat by day and party by night. Alcudia is a mostly quiet family resort though, and those seeking a hectic sun and fun holiday should head for the southern resorts such as Magaluf. Thinking of visiting Mallorca (Majorca) in the near future? Try a trip to the charming town of Alcudia and you will surely not be disappointed. Alcudia Map

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Cosmetic Surgery in Spain

I am in a position to tell you (my wife has recently had a face lift), that cosmetic surgery in Spain is available at considerably cheaper prices than the UK for example. I can also say that the treatment is of a high quality as is the after treatment which I must say was first class. My wife, Gill, who has always wanted a face lift recently entered the Clinica Foguet in Elche for a full face lift (to be exact the s-lift) and also liposuction, eye lift and other treatment – the full works, and while she emerged from the treatment looking like a frightened rabbit, her recovery was fast and remarkable, confirming the quality of the treatment. While I am not in full agreement with the principle of this type of surgery, believing in the “grow old gracefully” theory, I certainly realize that she is much happier having had the treatment and has enjoyed numerous compliments as to her appearance. The clinic offers a wide range of cosmetic and plastic surgery such as liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tucks, breast lifts, breast reduction and breast enlargement, the surgeon and his wife are very friendly and knowledgeable, offering help and advice throughout the treatment and recovery.

The Prickly Pear of Guatiza

A northeastern Canarian community in the Teguise municipality of Lanzarote, Guatiza has a population of around 800 and is well known for its cactus garden and cactus plantations. The cactus garden is located in an old volcanic hollow and was designed by Lanzarote architect César Manrique, it contains over 1,500 species of cactus. The large cactus plantations are grown to attract the cochineal beetle which lives on the prickly pear cactus, and the resulting cochineal has been an important product for the village for many centuries. The old village of Guatiza was sacked several times by the Moors and was moved to a safer location. Guatiza is situated 2 kilometres from the coast about nine kilometres north of Costa Teguise and Tahiche.

Overview of Galicia Spain

Spain’s most north-westerly region, Galicia is also its greenest, experiencing considerably more rainfall, and cooler temperatures than most of Spain. Galicia is still a poor region and most of its inhabitants are involved in either agriculture or fishing, with 3 of its 4 provinces having an Atlantic coastline. Visiting Galicia is like stepping back in time and many of its farm are too small for tractors, still using horses to pull ploughs and work the land. Its coastline is indented with fjord-like “rias” the best known example being the Rias Baixas (Lower Rias) in the south-west bordering Portugal. Galicia’s best known city is the holy city of Santiago de Campostella, built on the reputed site of the burial place of Saint James the Apostle, Santiago de Campostella is Europe’s second most important place of pilgrimage after Saint Peter’s Rome. The fishing industry is of very important for the region and the port and city of Vigo is the main supplier to Spain’s fish trade. Galicia weather is different from much of Spain with cooler summers and wetter winters, the coastal resorts are popular and the region has some excellent beaches. Galicia comprises 4 provinces, Ourense, A Coruña, Lugo and Pontevedra. Galicia Map.

Lanzarote Attractions – Jameos del Agua

Another of the major tourist attractions on the island of Lanzarote, the Jameos del Agua caves are located in the north of the island around twenty seven kilometres north of the capital Arrecife. Skillfully transformed during the 1960’s by Lanzarote architect Cesar Manrique, the caves now feature a restaurant and a concert area with 600 seats, where superb acoustics provide an ideal venue. The Jameos del Agua caves were formed by volcanic activity of which there has been plenty on Lanzarote, one of the caves contains a lake, which was formed as water entered during the lava flow. Jameos del Agua can be reached from the Orzola to Arrecife road.

The Volcanic Timanfaya National Park

One of the most visited locations on the Canary Island of Lanzarote, the Timanfaya National Park is a volcanic delight, some 51km2 in area in the southwest of the island. Formed when a huge eruption took place in the 18th century, Timanfaya still has molten lava bubbling away four metres under the surface. When visiting you will be able to see water instantly turned to steam by the intense heat, brushwood immediately engulfed in flames, and in the El Diablo (The Devil) restaurant you can eat a barbeque grilled over the heat of the lava. Trips to the Timanfaya National Park (Parque Nacional de Timanfaya) are organised from all the major resorts on the island.

Pulsating Puerto del Carmen

Located in the municipality of Tias, Lanzarote, the seaside resort of Puerto del Carmen was formerly just a small fishing village with an attractive harbour. With the growth of the Canary Islands tourist industry in the 1970’s, Puerto del Carmen developed into the largest resort on the island and now attracts many thousands of visitors, who come to enjoy the fine sandy beaches, wonderful seafood restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for Christmas and winter holidays and breaks, the off-season Puerto del Carmen weather is more pleasant than the hot temperatures experienced during the traditional summer season. From the harbour it is possible to take a trip in a glass-bottomed boat or even a trip to one of the neighbouring islands such as Fuerteventura, the harbour is also where the best restaurants are located, especially if you are looking for seafood, your meal will be so fresh it will be jumping off the plate! For the best beaches you cannot beat Puerto del Carmen, the main beach right beside the town is as good as any n the island, and to the east of the harbour there are an additional 12 km of fantastic beaches. For water sports enthusiasts there are plenty of facilities for windsurfing and scuba diving plus other popular activities. Puerto del Carmen Map.

Handsome Haria a Lanzarote Town

Considered by many, the most attractive town on the island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Haria is situated in the “Valley of One Thousand Palms”, and is most noticeable for its greenness laid against the bleak volcanic vistas of most of the island. Most of the palm trees were planted during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries when it was a custom to plant a palm tree each time a new baby was born, one for a girl and two for a buy. Haria’s most pleasant square is the shady Plaza de Leon y Castillo, site of a craft market on most Saturdays. Lanzarote’s most famous citizen César Manrique, for a while lived just outside the town after getting too much unwanted pubic attention in his previous abode. The name Haria is also given over to a sizable municipality covering the northern section of Lanzarote. Haria Map.

The Pretty Town of Yaiza Lanzarote

Heading from Playa Blanca towards the Parque Nacional de Tinamfaya, you will pass through the pretty town of Yaiza one of the most attractive on the island of Lanzarote in the Spanish Canary islands. Nestling at the foot of the Montañas del Fuego mountains, Yaiza is the main town for the municipality which covers south-western Lanzarote. Partly destroyed by the great volcanic eruption during the 1730’s, Yaiza’s inhabitants mostly left the town and headed further south for the village of Femes, the population not fully recovering until the 20th century. Notable places to visit in the town include the beautiful 18th century church of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, built on the site of an earlier chapel with its colourful altarpiece. Yaiza is a peaceful place to stop for a drink or maybe a meal in one of the fine restaurants, there are also some excellent gift shops where you can purchase a souvenir or two from your visit. Yaiza Map.

Peace and Tranquility in Isla Canela

Just south of Ayamonte on the border between south-western Spain and the Algarve Portugal, the relatively new resort of Isla Canela is joined to the Spanish mainland only by a causeway which links it to the town of Ayamonte. Long popular with Spanish tourists, Isla Canela boasts over seven kilometres of superb beaches, an 18 hole golf course, and some wonderful protected wetlands which are home to a wide variety of bird species. Isla Canela looks across the River Guadiana to Portugal and shares a similar climate to the resorts of the Algarve, with Isla Canela weather being perfect for summer holidays though cooler than the Costa del Sol to the north-east. A great area for water sports, this coast gets plenty of wind from the Atlantic Ocean and is good for windsurfing and similar sports. Don’t expect a bustling resort or a vibrant nightlife scene whilst visiting but do expect a peaceful holiday with plenty of time to relax. Isla Canela Map.

Alluring Ayamonte Andalucia

Standing on the Guadiana River on the border between Spain and Portugal, the charming little town of Ayamonte has an attractive fishing harbour and an atmospheric ‘old quarter’. Not as important as it once was, since the building of a new suspension bridge to the north, Ayamonte still attracts plenty of tourists and still has a ferry link with the town of Vila Real de San Antonio, on the other side of the Guadiana River in Portugal’s Algarve region. Ayamonte itself has some interesting attractions including the Iglesia de San Francisco (16th century) and the Iglesia de San Salvador (15th century). Those seeking a more traditional beach holiday will head for nearby Isla Canela, with many kilometres of wonderful sandy beaches and an excellent golf course, Golf Isla Canela, visitors can enjoy a fine climate with Ayamonte weather being comparable to the nearby Algarve. Isla Canela is accessed by way of a causeway from Ayamonte as it is actually an island separated from the mainland. Surrounding wetland areas are great for birdwatching and they are now a protected nature reserve. Ayamonte Map.

Punta Umbria – A Costa de la Luz Resort

Now one of the Costa de la Luz’s main seaside resorts, Punta Umbria was originally established by the famous Rio Tinto Company (a British mining company), as a place of rest for its employees and managers. The Rio Tinto company built some colonial beach side houses there rather than the sanatorium for which they had building permission. Punta Umbria lies close to the ancient port of Huelva in Andalucia, Spain, amidst marshy wetlands which are now a protected wildlife resort with some varied bird species. For holidaymakers the main attraction is the beaches, there are some excellent ones in the area, the closest to the town being Playa de la Mata Negra, another attraction is the wonderful conditions for water sports, especially windsurfing, as the Costa de la Luz coastline is battered by winds from the Atlantic Ocean. If you are visiting, don’t forget a trip into nearby Huelva, an ancient port which was formerly settled by Phoenicians, Romans and Moors, from Palos de Frontera, Christopher Columbus sailed on some of his voyages. Punta Umbria can be reached from Laguna del Portil or from Huelva itself. Punta Umbria Map.

A Brief History of Huelva

The most westerly city on the Costa de la Luz, Spain, Huelva was founded by the Phoenicians in around 1000 BC. Originally known as Onoba, Huelva was later controlled by the Romans and became part of the province of Hispania Baetica, the Romans established a mint there and coins were produced bearing the name “Onuba”. In the 15th century the explorer Christopher Columbus sailed from nearby Palos de la Frontera, and the discovery of the Americas brought increased wealth to Huelva, though it was generally overshadowed by the more important city of Seville. Significant mineral deposits in the region led to Huelva becoming the home of the well known Rio Tinto Company, a British mining concern which set up shop in the Odiel estuary and subsequently exported its products throughout the civilised world. Huelva fell into decline after being devastated by the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755, though it has always been a significant port for the region. Located on a stretch of coast known as the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light), Huelva is experiencing an increase in tourist activity as this less well known piece of coast attracts more and more visitors to its virgin beaches, as yet untouched by mass development. Enjoying a wonderful climate with Huelva weather being somewhat cooler than the neighbouring Costa del Sol, enjoying cooling Atlantic breezes and having a similar climate to Portugal’s Algarve to the south-west. Huelva is located just off the A-45 motoway between the Portuguese border and the city of Seville. Huelva Map.

The Jewel That is Jaen

Located in a fertile area in the north of Andalucia, Spain, the city of Jaen is dominated by the Castilla de Santa Catalina fortress and lies at a height of 574 metres above sea level. A significant university city, Jaen is most famous for the production of olive oil and is often called the “World Capital of Olive Oil” in recognition of its proliferous production of what the locals call “liquid gold”. Jaen was the scene of many battles during the long struggle between Moors and Christians and its important strategic position between Castille and Andalucia was largely the reason for this. The ols castle looking down on the city was originally a Carthaginian tower built by the famous general Hannibal, it was extended and refortified by the Moors and again by the reconquering Christians. One of the high points of a tour around the city of Jaen is the 16th century cathedral, built on the site of a former mosque and designed by Andres de Vandelvira. There are plenty of other interesting sights to visit and a long weekend trp would be ideal to see most of the main attractions. Jaen enjoys a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters but while Jaen weather is suitable for visiting throughout the year, July and August are best avoided due to excessively high temperatures, May and October would be the ideal time for a visit. Jaen does not have its own airport (the nearest is in Granada), so you will no doubt arrive by road, you can take the A45 from Granada or the A4 from Cordoba. Jaen Map.

Colourful Cordoba in Andalucia

Located in northern Andalucia, the city of Cordoba was the former capital of Arabic Al Andalus and was the capital of the Moorish Empire in the west. During the tenth century, Cordoba was one of the most populated cities in the world, with around half a million people, an immense city for those times. These days Cordoba has a population of around 320,000 and is only the 10th largest city in Spain, it is now a major tourist attraction and the best sites can be found in the old Jewish quarter in the area of the famous Mezquita mosque, the largest and most beautiful mosque built by the Moors in Spain. The Mezquita originally dates from the 8th century and was remodelled and extended in subsequent centuries, some of the most lavish additions being built in the 10th century, during the cities golden years. There is lots more to see in this area including the Bishop’s Palace, the Roman Bridge, and the Alcazar Palace. When you are tired of visiting historic monuments you can wander the back streets and seek out a quiet plaza, order a coffee and enjoy the Cordoba weather in the heart of one of Europe’s greatest cities. Cordoba has its own airport but it used for domestic flights only, so if you are flying to the city you will need to go to Seville or Malaga, or from elsewhere in Spain, by road you can reach Cordoba by way of the A-4 from Seville or the A-45 from Malaga. Be sure to visit colourful Cordoba some time soon. Cordoba Map.

Amazing Andalucia

Andalucia, Spain’s most south-westerly region is also the second largest and the most populous of its 17 autonomous communities. Bordering Portugal in the west, Murcia in the east and Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha in the north, its capital and largest city is Seville, which is also one of its eight provinces, the other seven being Almeria, Granada, Jaen, Cordoba, Cadiz, Malaga and Huelva. Andalucia has around eight hundred kilometres of coastline including the coastal regions known as the Costa de la Luz, the Costa del Sol, the Costa Tropical and the Costa Almeria, throughout these regions are a huge number of wonderful sandy beaches and some of the best known seaside resorts in Spain. A pioneer in Spain’s tourist industry, Andalucia attracts millions of visitors each year, not only to its beach resorts but also to its historic cities, with their awe inspiring attractions. Andalucia is where some of Spain’s best known traditions began, most notably bullfighting and flamenco dancing, it also boasts a history as complex as anywhere in Spain and a population of equal complexity. Andalucia can inspire and amaze, its widely varying landscapes can fool you as to where exactly you are, with the snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada just a few kilometres from the sun kissed beaches of its coastline, along with its geography, Andalucia weather can vary considerably from area to area from the cold of the mountains, to the high winds of its Atlantic (Costa de la Luz) coastline, to the warm beaches of the Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical. Andalucia has something for everyone. Andalucia Map.

Apartment for Sale in Malaga

First class apartment for sale in Malaga on the Costa del Sol, Spain. Very spacious 2 bedroom apartment set in beautiful communal gardens in this popular city. Apartment comprises 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounges, dining area, fully fitted kitchen, utility room and balcony. Malaga is the location of the main airport for the Costa del Sol so accessing the apartment should not be a problem, Malaga is an interesting city with a long history stretching back to the times of Phoenicians and Romans, it boasts a wonderful climate with the weather in Malaga ideal for holidays throughout the year, making this an ideal rental investment. The current asking price for this splendid Malaga apartment is 575,000 euros. Map of Malaga.

La Manga Bargain Commercial Unit

Are you looking for a business opportunity in Spain? This is a unique opportunity for investment, a corner commercial unit in La Manga, Murcia, which was originally purchased for 185,000 euros, (as stated on the title deeds) is now offered for sale at just 95,000 euros due to financial difficulties being experienced by the current owners. Just 85,000 euros is outstanding on the mortgage and this loan can be taken over if needed by the new owners (repayments are 1,203 euros per month). The unit is located in the commercial centre in one of the most popular areas in La Manga at the Tomás Maestre marina (Darsena Cero complex). This unit is priced to sell quickly so don’t expect it to be available for long. La Manga is located on the Costa Calida coastline of Murcia, Spain, it is a narrow strip of land which itself forms the unique Mar Menor sea, it is home to the famous La Manga Club a golf and sports resort which is used among other things as a winter training ground for international football teams, with La Manga weather being far superior to other places in northern Europe. Prices is this area are well above those of properties nearby and this commercial unit in La Manga is offered well below the true market value. Map of La Manga Spain.

Spain’s Picturesque Costa de la Luz

Situated in south-western Andalucia on Spain’s border with Portugal and the Algarve, a three hundred kilometre stretch of coastline called the Costa de la Luz, its name which translates as “Coast of Light” comes from its clear unpolluted skies, and the quality of light that can be found there, it is particularly renowned for its stunning sunsets. As yet mostly unspoiled by tourism the Costa de la Luz is becoming increasingly popular with international holidaymakers, who visit to enjoy the fine sandy beaches, the ancient towns and cities and the beautiful countryside of its hinterland. Apart from the usual beach type holiday, many visit for the splendid water sports facilities, especially windsurfing and surfing, where strong winds from the Atlantic Ocean provide perfect conditions for these popular sports, one of the best resorts for these activities is Tarifa in the south-east of the region. The sea breezes make temperatures cooler in this area and the weather on the Costa de la Luz is generally a little cooler than on the Costa del Sol. The Costa de la Luz has an interesting history and claims the oldest permanently inhabited city in Europe – Cadiz – which is well worth a visit if you are in the region. The Costa de la Luz is made up of two provinces Cadiz and Huelva, Huelva begins at the border with the Algarve and Portugal, and ends at the River Guadaquivir, Cadiz extends from the Guadalquivir to the town of Tarifa. If you are arriving by air to the Costa de la Luz, you will most likely land at Jerez airport, a modern and compact airport situated north-east of Jerez de la Frontera. If you are on a package holiday you will no doubt be picked up from here, if not you can oganise a Jerez airport transfer or alternatively pick up your Costa de la Luz car hire vehicle directly from the airport. It is recommended to hire a car while you are visiting the Costa de la Luz, otherwise you will miss out on some excellent chances to travel around the region, don’t forget a trip into the magical city of Seville or perhaps to the Natural Park at Donana, an important wetland area with lots of wildlife. Map of Costa de la Luz.

The Resort of Tossa de Mar Costa Brava

Renowned for its rugged coastline Spain’s Costa Brava has some splendid coastal resorts which are very popular with holidaymakers. One of the most attractive of these seaside resorts is Tossa de Mar, a historic town which still has remnants of its ancient walled village (Vila Vella) and was originally a Roman town called Turissa some 2,000 years ago. Tossa de Mar was one of the pioneers of the Costa Brava tourist industry attracting such early visitors as painter Marc Chagall, who stayed there in the summer of 1934, he named Tossa his “blue paradise” and the town still proudly displays (in the Municipal Museum) the only Chagall painting known to exist in Spain. Renowned for its seafood, Tossa de Mar is a great place to taste some local dishes such as simitoba (fish in garlic sauce), the town has some top quality restaurants. While Tossa de Mar will attract its fair share of culture seekers, due to its long history, it is most popular with those seeking a traditional beach style holiday and its beaches, 2 having blue flag status, are perfect for this type of holiday, and also ideal for water sports enthusiasts with scuba diving and snorkelling being especially popular. Tossa de Mar has a decent choice of hotels including the Golden Bahia de Tossa, the San Eloy Tossa de Mar and the Hotel Diana. Tossa de Mar is situated on the GI-682 about 41 kilometres from Girona and its airport. Map of Tossa de Mar.