Marbella
by doogienj
"Marbella"
As I like to go to Europe during Thanksgiving back home, I choose Costa Del Sol as my destination this year. My main objective was to play some golf and explore Andalucia.
I spent 5 days in Marbella and had a great time. Thanks to meeting some great people. After it rained the first three days, the weather was perfect for golf, and I even got an afternoon by the pool.
I rented a car from Avis at Malaga airport and did sidetrips to:
Gibraltar (1 hour drive)
I could not go onto the rock as it's British and I left my passport in the hotel. But I did get some good pictures.
Ronda (45 Min drive)
This town nestled in the mountain is a fun drive with a stick shift with the road winding every 10 seconds. Don't drive it if you are tired, and pay attention. Ronda has so much history and many things to see. It's a perfect 1/2 trip.
Jerez de la Frontera (2 hour drive)
This is the Sherry producing capital of the world. I arrived to late and on a Saturday when most things were closed, but you can visit the wineries. I met some fun people in a sherry bodega hole in the wall.
Malaga (1 hour drive)
The Picasso museum was closed. My understanding is they are building a new one for the native son. The city is loud and noisy, but offered some nice walking on pedestrian streets around the beautiful cathederal.
For more pictures from my Marbella visit, see the "Travelogue".
Forum Posts
Planning a trip
by sheilas
We will be travelling to Benalmadena in June and want to ring the changes. Last year we took a train to Seville and stayed in a fantastic hotel for three nights. We want to do the same this year but can't decide where to go for the three nights. Any suggestions. Willing to hire a car or use public transport. We loved Seville - we like places to be quite lively but not in a disco/television in bars/rowdy type way. Wondering about Granada, Cordoba or Jerez. Probably would stay the three nights in one place 'cos we don't like rushing around too much. Mainly like wandering,getting lost and eating nice meals in the evening.
Thanks a lot
Sheila
Re: Planning a trip
by hmoitta
We've just returned from an Andalucia trip and I think Cordoba or Granada will be great; Jerez I don't know yet.
Re: Planning a trip
by almckenzie
You'll be expecting a reply, but sorry - here's a question instead: We're going to Andalucia in May, and I'm curious as which Seville hotel you enjoyed so much??
- Good luck with your travel plans and your trip!
Anne Liv
Re: Planning a trip
by chanito
Jerez and its nearby coastal neighbor Cadiz are wonderful and less touristy places, with lots to visit in the environs!
Re: Re: Planning a trip
by sheilas
Hi Anne
No worries about the reply! It was Alfonso X111. Very expensive but very luxurious. If you decide to go for it you might try www.discount25.com - since returning I have found it on their website for less than we paid. There are some other good hotels not quite so expensive. I always check out www.tripadviser.com and see what the top 5 hotels are recommended. Have a good trip.
Sheila
Re: Re: Planning a trip
by sheilas
Chanito
Thanks for your reply. I think it may be Jerez. I'm going to do a bit of research on hotels etc. I notice you live there so any suggestions? Also could you tell me something I have often wondered about? I am learning Spanish but it is slow and so am I! When I go to Spain most waiters etc seem to be able to speak English. Do they prefer me to speak my bad Spanish or to let them speak English. Some are really nice and say "perfecto" and others look at me as if I am mad! Thanks for your help
Sheila.
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