Mijas - white village and beach resort on the Costa del Sol, Spain

Mijas Travel Guide:

Mijas Self-Catering Accommodation / Mijas Hotels

Mijas is located in the Spanish province of Malaga on the Costa del Sol in Andalucia. The town consists of two separate areas - Mijas Pueblo - a traditional Spanish white village - and Mijas Costa - a modern coastal beach resort. Mijas Costa is typical of all the Costa del Sol beach resorts with restaurants and bars near the beach.

Mijas Pueblo is a typical Andaluz village of whitewashed buildings, with winding narrow streets, and the proverbial geranium strewn balconies, perched high on the mountainside with spectacular views to the Mediterranean below and a scenic backdrop of mountains and endless pine forests. On entering the village, it is possible to see the ancient spring, which provides natural mineral water. Stroll the narrow, cobbled streets and breathe in the atmosphere - stop for a coffee or a glass of wine along the way and sit and watch the world go by.. then take a trip around the village in the famous donkey-drawn taxis of Mijas.

The village is a fascinating place to visit. Many bars and restaurants, attractive shops, and astounding views all around, plus the following attractions:

Hermitage of the Virgen de la Peña

Visit the Hermitage of the Virgen de la Peña, which dates back to 1520. Built by Mercedarian monks, the inside of the hermitage is decorated with the image of the patron saint that gave this place its name. Legends tell that the Virgen de la Peña appeared right on this spot, in front of two shepherds which is why the heritage was built here and not elsewhere.

Botanical Gardens and La Muralla

Just below the heritage is a large and attractive botanical garden (plants are labelled with their names for information). The gardens are integrated with the old defensive walls of the town (la Muralla). There is also a rock gorge within the gardens, which makes an interesting rock climbing location for climbers to practice their skills, and lovely waterfalls and fish ponds.

Other attractions in Mijas Pueblo are as follows:

Casa Museo

The Casa Museo is a fully restored museum displaying old farming tools and equipment. Located on the Plaza de la Libertad, the museum has a typical Andalusian style patio, and on the top floor a range of sculptures, paintings and traditional crafts can be viewed.

Plaza de Toros

In the same area as La Muralla is the Plaza de Toros, or bull fighting ring. Built in the traditional manner in 1900 the bull ring though small offers exciting bullfights on a regular basis. The views from the seating area in the bull ring are astounding. Close by you can visit the Siete Caños square, the Casa de la Cultura and other other nearby points of interest.

Carromato de Max

The Carromato de Max is a fascinating and special museum, located only a few metres from the main square and the town hall of Mijas Pueblo. It is a museum of miniatures which includes fascinating objects such as a picture of Abraham Lincoln painted on a pin-head or a prayer written on the borders of a visiting card.

The entire Mijas area is a golfer's paradise with year-round sun and numerous championship golf courses within easy reach. Just inland from Mijas Costa you'll find La Cala North and South golf courses and the David Leadbetter Golf Academy. Also within easy driving distance are the famous courses of Valderrama, Torrequebrada, Alhaurin La Grande and Monte Mayor.

Well worth a visit on your trip to Spain - make a note to visit Mijas.

Author: Anne Sewell

Warning about long term rentals in Spain

30 December 2009

Further to comments to this blog, I have thought the situation through, and now realise that I should not have involved the real estate agent in this.

Although he is a friend of the owner, it is not his fault or responsibility that we suffered because of the damp in the house. It is merely the owner's fault for misrepresenting the situation.

I apologise to Phil Tracey of Rainbow Realty for accusations against him. The blog was written "in the heat of the moment", so to speak, and I should have removed it months ago.

Sorry Phil. I hope we can put this whole thing behind us.


17 October 2009

Whoopee-doo... we finally got some of our deposit back! Apparently the living room needed repainting (but why I am not sure as no damage was done during our stay and the paintwork was pristine)... there was also a broken tile on the stairs - due to the fact that there was not sufficient cement underneath it when it was placed there!... but still, we got something, so I suppose we have to be grateful?

Another HORRIBLE incident put behind us.... and another valuable lesson learned.. :o)

8 September 2009
Update to the blog below...

We are still awaiting our deposit from the owner of this house. She is now getting nasty, and still does not admit there is a damp problem! Unbelievable! Looks like we will have to resort to legal action to get our money back. PLEASE BE CAREFUL when renting from an English agent in Spain!!! You just don't get the backup you need and you tend to come across crooks like these!! ... rather go Spanish.. :o)
--------------------

With the global crisis, my son, his friend, and I decided to rent a large house and share expenses. It really made sense... we found the perfect 3 storey townhouse in Torremuelle...

I had the ground floor all to myself with a large living area and bedroom... my son and his friend had plenty of space on the 2nd floor, and on the top floor was a large lounge, kitchen and terrace for us all to share. Seemed like the perfect option - sea views, very nice area to live in, friendly neighbours, secure gated community, the works....

And now for the big "however"!

We were shown the house by an English estate agent from Rainbow Reality. When we viewed it, all the windows, doors, garage doors etc. were open to "air the house because it had been shut up for some time".... My son and his friend both noticed a musty smell and asked the agent if the house had a damp problem. The agent repeatedly said no... there had been no damp in the house for 15 years (his friend owned the house and had lived there). It was just that the house had been "closed up for so long...."

OK, fine.. we said.. we will take it, and we moved in.

With the doors and windows being closed we immediately noticed a damp smell coming from a storeroom on the ground floor and investigated and there was DEFINITELY a damp problem in there, and it was affecting the entire house. We contacted the agent, and sealed the door with plastic to keep the smell enclosed...

Upon investigating the house a little closely, we realised that the whole place had been newly painted to cover up various damp areas in the walls - not immediately noticeable, unless you looked closely..

The agent sent out his so called "handy man" who came and installed a couple of piddly little extractor fans which, in effect, actually made the problem 100 times worse, as he was pushing the smelly damp air into the structure of the building itself! The day after he did this, I was climbing the stairs and got very short of breath...

The previous few days, I had felt very tired, and found my poor legs could hardly climb the stairs, but had attributed it to the work of the move, and the extreme heat. However, I went to the doctor and found that the damp had infected both my lungs and had also affected my heart! I was told by the doctor to IMMEDIATELY leave the house.

After this, the "handy" man came and disconnected the extractor fans and we were told that there might be a problem due to SEWER PIPES?!!! Charming, I am sure you will agree.

All through this the so-called estate agent only ever said that there had been no damp in 15 years... had it only happened immediately on our arrival? I think not!

We are moving out and demanding the return of our deposit, but quite honestly, as we have since found out that the contract we were given is not even legal, we could sue for the rent, deposit, moving expenses and medical expenses if we wished! If there is any problem with the return of the deposit, we will certainly do this!

Sooo... if you view a house and smell any sort of mustiness or dampness... DO NOT TAKE THE HOUSE, as this can only have an adverse effect on your health, leading to problems like asthma, emphysema, heart problems etc. Some houses built at the coast around 20 years ago are not properly built to prevent this kind of problem... If you are unsure, get an expert to look at the house before you even consider it... and don't trust agents of Rainbow Reality, whatever you do!!!!

Malaga city - capital of Andalucia and a city of great history

Most tourists think of Malaga as a place to fly into to start their holidays on the Costa del Sol, but few actually take the time to explore this fascinating city.

The city is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and is a cosmopolitan and attractive city – ranging from modern streets and buildings, to the older narrow winding streets of typical Andalucian buildings, with many seafood restaurants and tapas bar to relax and rejuvenate during your tour of the city.

Located on the Costa del Sol, Malaga is situated in a sweeping bay, with golden sandy beaches, and is surrounded by beautiful mountainous scenery. Visit the port to see many cruise ships visiting the city. The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year and benefits from the highest average temperatures in Spain.

Malaga has many attractions for the tourist and here is a selection of the main tourist “must visits”:

Calle Larios:

A wide and modern boulevard through the centre of the city with many smart shops and coffee bars and well worth a stroll. You will see many human statues (or street performers) – reminiscent of the famous Las Ramblas in Barcelona.

From Calle Larios, you can take many of the smaller, narrow winding streets and plazas to view other attractions of the city.

The Cathedral of Malaga:

A beautiful Renaissance cathedral with a Baroque and beautiful façade – and well worth the visit to this gorgeous piece of architecture. However, beware of the gypsies haunting the entrance to the cathedral, who will try their best to take a few Euros from you.

Birthplace of Picasso:

Close to the Cathedral is the Plaza de la Merced – a huge square surrounded by restaurants and bars, and including the house in which Pablo Picasso was born. Not much to see in the house, but it is interesting to see photos of Picasso as a child, and the clothing he wore when he was christened. No cameras are allowed in the house – if they catch you they actually take your camera and lock it in a locker until you are ready to leave! (I speak from experience!).

Picasso Museum:

More interesting is the Museo Picasso – which displays many of the fine works of this famous artist – close to the Cathedral.

La Alcazaba

Further on you can visit La Alcazaba – built during the Moors occupation of Malaga in the mid fifteenth century. Fascinating architecture and definitely worth a visit. The Alcazaba is on the hillside, and you can get some wonderful views from up there.
An interesting note is that there is a well preserved Roman amphitheatre in the grounds of La Alcazaba – unfortunately as it is undergoing renovation, it is only possible to view the ruins through the fence.

Gibralfaro Castle

At the very top of La Alcazaba is the Moorish Castillo Gibralfaro – with astounding views of the city below and the surrounding areas. Right next door to the castle is the Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro, one of the famous Paradores of Spain, which also enjoys the wonderful views. Well worth a stay for at least a night.

Calle Alameda and the Botanical Gardens

Running through the centre of the city, and close to La Alcazaba are the beautiful botanical gardens – a lovely and leafy place to relax and catch your breath (also just adjacent to the Port of Malaga).

Teatro Cervantes

The main theatre in Malaga is the Teatro Cervantes, which is where another famous son of Malaga once performed – Antonio Banderas – and he still appears there from time to time.

Cuisine

Malaga has many excellent restaurants, cafes and tapas bars where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes, ranging from tapas to full menus. Most are very affordable and offer Andalucian specialities including “pescaito frito”, a selection of small fried fish including sardines and red mullet. Enjoy the catch of the day and wash it down with a fine Spanish wine.

As Malaga goes to sleep during the siesta period, this would be the perfect time to relax and refuel for the late afternoon activities.

Incidentally, if seeing Malaga with limited time, the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is a great option as it takes you to all the main sights of the city in comfort... get on and off as often as you like during the day.

In closing, Malaga is definitely worth at least a day and a night of your visit to the Costa del Sol. Tag it on to the beginning or ending of your holiday and you will not regret it!

Author: Anne Sewell

Fuengirola Zoo - An Oasis of Calm in the Centre of Town - Costa del Sol, Spain

When visiting the Costa del Sol in Andalucia, Southern Spain, a must-see destination is the Zoo in Fuengirola


Located right in the centre of town, the zoo is a beautiful and calm place, beautifully designed to give its residents space and realistic natural habitats to live in, grow and produce their young.


History of the Zoo


The zoo originally opened in the 1970's, as a typical zoo, with awful cages and fenced enclosures for the animals. Living conditions were unspeakable and left a lot to be desired. In December 1998, Rain Forest took over the contract to operate the zoo and completely redesigned the property using the latest “full immersion zoo” concept. The property is actually relatively small, so they chose to use a “tropical forest” ecosystem for the whole of the property- very suitable with the sub-tropical vegetation in the area.


They set out to create an environment embracing the tropical rainforests of Madagascar, Southeast Asia and Equatorial Africa, including rivers and waterfalls, caves, valleys, trees and rocks. As the property is small, subterranean stables were built for the animals to sleep and also raised gardens were erected around the property to block off the nearby buildings - making the zoo a different world within the busy seaside city.


Breeding of endangered species


Once everything was in place, the animals were introduced to their wonderful new habitat. Breeding of endangered species now successfully occurred - particularly with the chimpanzees.. Although the zoo had been breeding chimps from the outset, in the past there was a great deal of infanticide, as conditions were so unnatural. For the first time they could walk on grass, touch plants, run, play hide-and-seek… for the first time they could behave like chimpanzees.


With the introduction of the new zoo, many of the animals are now successfully breeding - not only the chimps, but also the Bornean Orang-utans, the Sumatran Tigers, the lemurs from Madagascar, Pygmy Hippopotamus and the Blue Duiker are all examples of animals that now successfully breed their young in this new environment.


It is truly wonderful to see the baby animals, and their parents so happy and proud. Although I am normally against zoos as a whole, seeing endangered species flourishing is truly a heart warming experience.


A stroll around the zoo

As you enter the zoo, staff will take your photo, as a memento of your visit. You will then calmly stroll around the shady environment, with tropical sounds appropriate to each section playing through the trees. It is easy to imagine that you are actually in the tropical jungles of Africa or Asia!


There are aviaries of beautiful birds, waterholes with various buck and birds including beautiful flamingos and their young, sharing the space, and of course the more famous animals in the zoo - the Gorilla, the Sumatran Tigers and leopards! Also worth a visit are the Orang-utans - they have recently produced a cute youngster, and the mother endlessly shows off her baby to visitors, and also delights in posing for you - she definitely has a great sense of humour, and I have managed to take some amazing shots of her!


The chimps are also enchanting to watch, and currently have youngsters too. The golden cheeked gibbons are also beautiful - the male of the species being black and the female a beautiful golden colour. Currently their baby is also golden, but as it is a male, it will eventually turn black like Dad.


Make sure you visit the Nile crocodiles - scary looking creatures, but luckily the viewing glass is very thick!


The highlight of the visit, in my opinion, is the Madagascar enclosure - habitat of the lemurs, where every 30 minutes you can take a tour to visit these gorgeous and friendly creatures. Entrance to the enclosure is through a very realistic baobab tree - created for the zoo - you can really imagine that you are in Africa when you step inside this hollow tree on the way to the lemurs!


Another highlight is the regular Forest Clearing Exhibitions, where you can enjoy a commentary on various animals in the zoo, and see exhibits. In summer, during July and August, try and visit the zoo at night for an amazing experience as the animals come to life after sleeping in the heat of the day - concluding with a dinner in the heart of the jungle! Currently they are running a special African evening, with African dancing and a tasty meal.


In conclusion:

All in all, Fuengirola zoo is a zoo in continuous evolution and it is difficult to include everything about this wonderful place in one article. However, it is important to know that the zoo is involved in 35 European endangered species breeding programmes and also collaborates on a variety of international projects to save, in situ, the planet's endangered forest zones. Please give generously to the various projects as you visit the zoo and have a wonderful visit! You will be back (I've visited 4 times and I LIVE in Fuengirola!


About the Author:


Anne Sewell is involved in travel on the internet with several websites, including All World Vacation Station - a global travel guide with worldwide accommodation options.

Nerja - Charming Seaside Town, Costa del Sol, Southern Spain

Originally a small fishing village on the Mediterranean Sea, Nerja is still known for its traditional Andalusian atmosphere and mood.

Located right on the beach front, Nerja is sunny 300 days per year. Enjoy the sandy coves, mountain views and also the Balcon de Europa (balcony of Europe), which is part of an ancient fortress (approx. 900 AD) overlooking the ocean views. There are several beaches, including the Playa Burriana (Blue Flag beach), and there is a charming seaside walk along the beachfront (known as the Paseo de Carabineros).

The old traditional centre of Nerja is charming, with white washed houses, narrow streets and the usual floral decorations on the balconies. There are many little tapas bars and restaurants in the town to rest and enjoy the local produce. You can also buy many regional products, including the famous olive oil, cheeses and honey, and delicious fresh tropical fruits, and vegetables.

There is so much to do in town, including flamenco shows, walking and hiking, jeep tours, sailing trips, mountain bike hire, diving and other water sports. Want to learn Spanish? There are Spanish courses held locally too.

A little further from town you will find the famous Cuevas de Nerja (Nerja caves) - originally discovered by children playing in the area, these caves have the largest stalactites in Europe and are the third most famous attraction in Spain.

Behind the Nerja caves is the nature park - Sierra Tejeda, Alhama and Almijara - with wonderful walks and views. You can view the Spanish mountain goat (cabra hispanica) in its natural habitat. Besides walking, there are also some wonderful drives through the area.

Other attractions close by include Granada - 1.5 hours drive - including the famous Alhambra and close by the Sierra Nevada mountains with wonderful ski slopes. Visit the Alpujarras, a lovely mountainous area and the village of Trevelez, which is the highest village in Spain.

Malaga is also close by - the capital of Andalucia, it is worth a visit to the Picasso Museum, the cathedral, the Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro. Other day trips can be made to famous Cordoba, Sevilla, Ronda and Gibraltar.

In conclusion, Nerja is well worth a visit - the real Spain, with wonderful beaches!


About the Author

Anne Sewell is involved in web based accommodation reservations and advertising in Fuengirola, Spain. Visit All Spain Accommodation

Estepona - Quiet Gem on the Costa del Sol in Spain

Estepona is a wonderful little town - relatively unspoiled by tourism - and located on the Costa del Sol, about 30 minutes from Marbella, and only a short drive to Gibraltar. Unlike the busy towns of Marbella and Fuengirola, Estepona is relatively quiet - and the centre of town is still very traditionally Spanish. The winding narrow streets are lined with older houses, with balconies decorated with bright geraniums, and the sound of pet birds singing in their cages makes a lovely sound as you stroll along.

Relax in the Plaza de las Flores - a beautiful town square lined with flowers and several excellent cafes and bars. There's a coffee bar on virtually every corner of town and you will never go short on somewhere different to eat dinner, or have a light snack, or "tapas". On the beach you will find the famous beach "chiringuitos" serving excellent sea food and other dishes, or just an ice cold drink when you need one.

The outskirts are developing, however, and there are many huge apartment blocks sprouting up, but luckily this doesn't luckily interfere with the atmosphere and attractions of the town itself. New supermarkets and shopping centres have also been built on the outskirts, giving more shopping options for both residents and holidaymakers including the famous Carrefour and the ubiquitous McDonalds!

Running alongside the town is a beautiful Blue Flag beach, which is surprisingly quiet even in the summer months, lined by a stunning flower-strewn promenade. Estepona's beaches are in actual fact 21 kms long in total! Walk along the promenade from town to the end of the beach (a comfortable stroll), and you will find first the lighthouse, and then the Port of Estepona. The port is a traditional working fishing port, but there is also the addition of a modern marina, with lovely yachts, and a selection of fine restaurants serving international and Spanish cuisine and also a Yacht Club. Definitely the place to "hang out" in the evenings, with bars and nightclubs to entertain all ages.

For history buffs, there are interesting museums to visit including the archaeological museum, the Ethnic museum and also the museum at the bull ring. Quite a few interesting historical ruins in the town too. Selwo Aventura, close to Estepona, is the only Adventure, Animal and Nature Park in Europe - enjoy a safari drive in the warm Spanish sunshine. 200 species of animals can be viewed, and photographed. The town retains its original bull ring which hosts not only bull fighting, but also international music concerts.

Golfers will be happy with the selection of courses, including Atalaya Golf & Country Club, El Paraiso Golf Club (designed by Gary Player), Estepona Golf, Los Almendros and Golf SotoSerena.

Plenty of attractions close by too… you can easily visit Ronda, a fascinating mountain top city, or Ojen, a beautiful traditional white village, both reasonably close by, or pop down the coast to Marbella one way, or Gibraltar in the other direction, for shopping.

Accommodation:

In town, you will find small hotels and hostals to accommodate you in comfort, or you could go for the larger and more luxurious resort hotels on the outskirts of town. There are many wonderful holiday apartments on offer in the town - either along the beachfront, or above the marina, giving options to suit all.

Transport-wise, the town has an efficient bus service and many taxis, but you might find that you need a hire car to travel further afield.

Language: As for language, many workers in restaurants and shops do speak a certain amount of English, but it would be good to have your Spanish phrase book handy.

All in all, Estepona is the ideal destination for families, couples, golfers and the young. While retaining its traditional Spanish features, it offers everything one could want for the perfect holiday, and gives you a chance to relax without the crazy crowds!

About the Author:

Anne Sewell is involved in web based accommodation reservations and advertising in Fuengirola, Spain. Visit All Spain Accommodation

Writing Travel Articles by Anne Sewell

In this modern world, where more and more people can afford international travel, knowledge of the country to be visited is very important.

Thus persons who are knowledgeable about a particular country should try to write interesting articles, outlining not only the attractions of the country, city etc, but also any downfalls, dangers, etc. that people may experience. A bit of honesty goes a long way to prevent unhappy incidents while on holiday! For example, avoid Such-and-such Street as you may be mugged... don't go near Such-and-such Street as this is the red light district, etc.

Let people know what the most important attractions are, giving a little history if possible. Advise them on modes of travel in the particular country - whether it is more convenient to use public transport, or rent a vehicle. If language may be a problem, advise on buying a phrase book for common sayings in that particular country.

Other important things to bear in mind when writing a travel article and submitting to the article web sites:

1. Check your facts: make sure what you are stating in the article is, in fact, true.

2. Check your spelling, grammar and punctuation: there is nothing worse than badly spelled or worded text, especially for webmasters who wish to use your article as content on their websites! If at all worried, or if English is not your home language, have your article proof read by an English speaking person to check whether all is in order.

3. Don't make the article too short, or even too long - an ideal guide is to use between 500-1000 words for a comfortably readable article. If you have a lot to say, maybe split the information over several articles, i.e. part 1, part 2, etc.

4. Web site links: bear in mind that people with similar web sites to your own will want to publish your article as content. Do not pepper your article with several links within the body of the text - this will put people off using the content! They don't particularly want your article to take potential business away from them immediately. Try to use just one link in the resource box, or about the author section at the bottom of your article.

I hope this helps you in producing top quality articles for the travel web.

Submit your travel articles to global-travel-articles.net