Spain's Costa del Sol
THE COSTA DEL SOl
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This stretch of the Andalusian coast has over the years become a melting pot of different cultures and races living in harmony under the common theme of the weather.
The Costa del Sol has the most temperate weather of all the Mediterranean countries, rightly earning its title as the California of Europe.
The Costa del Sol offers a huge range of pastimes to tempt every palette and whim. From shark fishing yes, you can catch blue shark in the deeper waters, to skiing after your mornings sunbathing as well as the usual para-sending, water-skiing, horse riding, dolphin watching, amusement parks, the list is endless.
The differences in the villages and towns is amazing, from the sophisticated and high class playground of the rich and famous, Marbella, to the very Andalusian cobbled streets of Mijas.
There is somewhere for everyone a fantastic place for relaxing holidays or adventure and excitement. Cross from the French influences to the Moroccan, all just a walk away.
The Costa del Sol is rapidly being renamed the Costa del Golf. You can enjoy over 40 courses and there are more in the pipeline, from the famous Sotogrande Course, Valderrama to the friendly course at Mijas and other local favorites such as Miraflores at Calahonda and Santa Maria golf at Elviria, with lots more right on your door step!
The currency here is the Euro although some local establishments will accept sterling – not at the best rates. For good currency conversion, the local small bureaus offer the best value, but beware their rates as some exchanges are not so clear with regards to their commission charges so always use an exchange where the charges are clearly stated.
It is still cheap to eat out in Spain, there are restaurants offering all you can eat buffets from €8 or €9 each and a wide variety of Spanish tappa bars which cost from as little as €2 per tappa, a good 3 course meal with wine would on average set you back approximately €12 each, or you can choose fantastic dinning experiences both mediterranean and international which should be booked in advance.
This all depends upon individual taste and in some cases particular location.
Beer is served as a caña tall tube glass. Should you require something bigger, ask for a jarra (about pint sized) Tinto Verano is the Spanish local drink, red wine over ice with a topping of casera (lemonade): It is much more refreshing than Sangria and can be drunk all day whilst sitting in the sun, making those all important decisions such as where to eat tonight. Spirits are of course poured in measures which may vary upon how nicely you smile at your waiter or waitress but are still famously large (huge)!

Mijas Village Fried baby squid
Shopping is a great pastime in Spain. Many shops are now open all day, but typical hours are 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm. Banks are mainly open in the morning from 8.30am. Every nationality is catered for with specialist shops and restaurants everywhere.

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