DESTINATION: MARBELLA SPAIN

In the heart of the western Cost Del Sol, between the Sierras and the coastal mountain range, sits a Mediterranean city that has become a top venue for tourists. It used to be a small fishing village but has since grown to a swank cosmopolitan city with one of the most famous sports ports in the Mediterranean, Puerto Banus. In this port you will find anchored some of the most famous yachts of the rich and famous.

PUERTO BANUS

“Marbella's impressive infrastructure of yacht harbors, golf courses, medical facilities, its closeness to Malaga airport are key features, along with good roads, and a beautiful, safe and uniquely historic urban environment. This residential or holiday Jet-set centre, with its millionaires and celebrities makes a nice clean secure and well maintained Marbella. Its boulevards, Tropical parks and gardens add to the splendor...” *******

DESTINATION - MARBELLA

MARBELLA

The history of Marbella dates back to 1.600 BC. A Moorish castle (built in the 10th century) still stands and is the only remaining structure from the Arab era today. The narrow streets are lined with old architecture consisting of balconies overflowing with a variety of flora providing intoxicating fragrances around every corner.

HISTORIC SITES WORTH THE VISIT:

Basílica Vega del Mar- Built by the Visigoths in the 4th century, this paleo-Christian construction is like nothing else in the entirety of Spain. Tours are conducted midday three days a week.

Basilica Vega del Mar

Murallas del Castillo (Las)- In the heart of the old quarter stand the remains of the Arab castle and city walls that once spread over 90000m2. It is the only construction that still remains from the Muslim era. It was built in the 10th century in the Caliph period, later enlarged in the 14th century by the Nazaries.
(Not currently open to the public as the inside in under restoration)

Murallas Del Castillo

BEACHES:

Playa de la Bajadilla- This is the most popular beach on the coast of Marbella. Hospitality services include deck chairs/loungers, showers, restrooms, lifeguards, a watch tower and first aid.

Playa de la Bajadilla

There are seven other public beaches to choose from in this magical city; Playa del Calahonda, Playa de Guadalmina, Playa de Nagueles, Playa de Puerto Banus-Nueva Andalucia, Playa del Alicate, Playa el Pinillo, and Play del Fontanilla. All offer beautiful scenery, clear waters and fine-grained sand.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS:

BULL FIGHTING:
Bull fighting, a Spanish tradition dating back to 711 A.D. is in season from April to October. Bull Fighting is considered and art and is intimately linked to Spain’s culture. If you visit the city during bull fighting season, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this ancient form of fiesta.

FUENGIROLA ZOO:
Lush, simulated tropical forests provide a walk to remember when you visit the Fuengirola Zoo. During your tour through this jungle you will see a variety of birds, crocodiles sunning on the shore lines of the river, giant snails, river hogs, monkeys, and lemurs all seen through natural barriers such as bridges, rivers and bullet proof glass.

During July and August, the zoo stays open until 1:00 a.m. providing a “Moonlight Visit” tour. This particular tour allows viewers to see the more nocturnal creatures such as leopards, flying foxes and porcupines.

Marbella offers the finest in Five Star Hotels (including the Melia Benoa All Inclusive Resort by Bali’s and Beatriz Palace) and mid-range Hostels to keep you in comfort between all the amazing sites and tours around the city.

There is so much to see and do in Marbella that I would recommend a minimum of a week to stay but certainly no maximum length exists as such a beautiful paradise can never be explored and enjoyed enough.

I give Marbella two thumbs and a toe up! For more information on this destination, visit http://www.guide2marbella.com/.******

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Michele Gwynn
Xomba.com Featured Writer for Travel
www.xomba.com/user/micheleg4153

Copyright @ Michele Gwynn All Rights Reserved
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Picture Source Links: http://www.costadelsol.net/web/marbella/basilicauk.htm
http://www.guide2marbella.com/
http://www.magicmarbella.com/marbella/muralla/muralla.htm