Give the Costa del Sol a go this summer

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Once a quiet land of fishing villages and whitewashed houses, today the Costa del Sol is known as ‘Sunshine Coast’ and buzzing with tourist activity. The region may have earned itself a somewhat down-market reputation due to cheap flights and package holidays, but don’t let you put this off visiting because it really is a fabulous holiday destination.

June to September tends to be the most popular times to visit due to the hot temperatures and summer holidays. Late April and May, when temperatures average between 23°C and 27°C, is more comfortable temperature and less busy because children are still in school.

Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Torremolinos are some of the most popular tourist spots and each one offers a variety of attractions and facilities. Marbella, and the glitzy waterfront resort of Puerto Banus, are full of glamour and a short drive away are the pretty, white washed villages of Estepona, Istan, Ojen and Rhonda. Set back from the coast and hidden in the mountainside, Mijas is a beautiful old town, where you will find some of the most breath taking panoramic views of Mediterranean.

It goes without saying that one of the biggest attractions of the area are the beaches. The sea temperature in the summer months is rarely less than 23ºC, so jump in and cool down but watch out for the jellyfish. As well as swimming, snorkeling and diving you can also try paragliding, sailing, fishing and for the ultimate treat go dolphin watching at dusk.

The climate and landscape are perfect for walks in the mountains, waterskiing on the lakes, cycling, birdwatching and with over 100 courses, the Costa del Sol is a golfers paradise.

There is a wide range of accommodation across the Costa del Sol. Whether you are looking for self-catering options, city apartments in Malaga or luxury villas complete with pools, there is something for everyone and every budget.

Hotels in the area are big business and options like the Marbella Club offer an amazing five star experience. If you want a hotel but don’t want to spend top dollar, an online search will give you some excellent cost effective options that offer great service, cleans beaches, kids clubs, local cuisine and entertainment.

Speaking of food, the Spanish are passionate about food, so be prepared for some impressive menus. Chiringuitos (beach bars) are a way of life and the food is always fresh and delicious. Whether you go for tapas, fresh fish, pasta or steaks, you really cannot go wrong. Oh, and the wine tend to be exceptional too.

If you are looking for a taste of traditional Spain head to ‘Plaza de los Naranjos’ (Orange Square) in Old Town Marbella. As well as exploring the shop lined cobbled streets and enjoying dinner alfresco under the blossom, you can also enjoy music from local musicians and flamenco dancing.

The flight from London to Malaga is just under three hours and the Costa del Sol is less than an hour from the airport. Travelling around can be done by bike, bus, car, scooter, train and taxi. Hiring a car can be handy if you want to explore the region but use a reputable company, take your license and be aware of the speed limits.

Local time is GMT + 1, Euros are the local currency and remember that you will need a European-style two-pin to plug in your gadgets.

This eclectic mix of old and new, makes the Costa del Sol the ultimate sun, sea, sand and sangria holiday destination.

Happy holidays.

It’s never too late to book a holiday

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adventure, airports, August, autumn, baggage, beach, budget, camping, cooking, cycling, Europe, extra, families, family, flights, food, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, foreign currency, friends, holiday, hotel, lakes, last minute break, meals, passports, prices, reserving, seats, Spa, staycation, town, two-week holiday, two-week summer holiday, UK, villa, yoga

 

It’s seems that the holiday season has already started.

Passports are being renewed.

Dog-sitters are being booked.

Bikinis are being chosen.

People are sharing their sunny snaps on social media.

However, if you are still undecided, do not worry, it’s never too late to book a summer break.

Whilst many people book up months, even years, ahead leaving things a later isn’t a disaster, you might just need to do a little more leg-work.

First things first, set dates. If you don’t want to get caught out by the biggest price hikes and busiest times, try to avoid going away during Whitsun half term week in May and the second half of August.

If you love it to be hot, going away in June might not give you the tan you want and if you have toddlers you might want to avoid the blazing sun in Greece in the middle of the summer.

Decide what kind of holiday you want to go on. Is it adventure, beach, spa, cycling, cooking, yoga or just sitting by the pool with a good book? Whatever it is, this is your time away so be sure you do what will make you happy.

Be aware of the world around you, this pretty key at the moment. If you are considering a country where there is political instability and terrorist threats, there may well be great deals but they might not be the best choice. Check details with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and take their advice.

Ask for recommendations. We can all look at glossy brochures and daydream over images on the Internet, but getting recommendations and feedback from family and friends about a hotel, town or villa could be more valuable than any online review.

Don’t forget Spain. If you’re looking for guaranteed sunshine, perfect sandy beaches and amazing food – Spain is a great choice. This country has destinations for everyone, and every budget. There are many flight options and the range of accommodation is as overwhelming as the welcome families receive.

Don’t be caught out by the promise of massive savings. Prices are changing all the time in response to demand making the original price of a holiday pretty meaningless.

What you do need to look at is what is actually included in the price you are quoted. To compare prices you need to factor in flights, meals, transfers and all the other elements of a holiday. You need to ensure you are comparing like with like. If there is a massive difference in prices, try to find out why – for example flights are included but baggage and reserving seats is extra.

Consider going for the all-inclusive option. These are perfect for families who want to know what they will be spending and are looking for excellent facilities, good food, sports as well as value for money.

If you like nature, how about camping? Camp sites across the UK and Europe offer a range of facilities and prices and this can be a fantastic way to take a last minute break that everyone will enjoy.

No one says you have to take the traditional two-week summer holiday. How about splitting up your time off? You could have a week by the Italian lakes early in the season before it gets too hot and busy, followed by a weekend at a holiday park and then a city break in the early autumn.

If all else fails, try a ‘staycation’. Without the stress of airports, passports, foreign currency and sun burn, you can still have a great, relaxing time at home with you and yours.

Whatever you do this summer, have fun.