Car hire gives you the freedom to tour the countryside. You won’t have to plan your activities or rely on the schedule for the train or bus service with your own vehicle.

Hiring a vehicle is not as expensive as you may think. In many cases, a weekly hire can cost just a little more than a rail pass for one person. If you are travelling with two or more people, hiring a vehicle will actually save you money compared to rail passes for each person in your group. This is true even when the cost of fuel is included.

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Getting the Best Deal on a Car Hire in Spain:

Compare hire companies on the internet. The cost of the same car can vary widely according to the company you choose. You can pick up your car at the airport for the best convenience. Return it prior to your flight home. It’s often cheaper to pick up and return at the same location. Some companies charge high fees for returning at a different location.

Choose a smaller vehicle to save money. The rental rate on a smaller car is less than a larger, luxury model. In addition, you will save money on fuel. Compact cars are more fuel efficient than larger cars. To save even more on fuel, consider renting a diesel car. The price of fuel in Spain is on par with the rest of Europe, but you will want a vehicle that is as fuel efficient as possible, especially if you plan to travel a distance.

Other ways to save:

o Pick up and return your vehicle on weekend days.
o The longer the length of the rental, the more you will save on the daily rate.
o Return the vehicle with an empty tank, most companies charge for a full tank and there is no refund for any remaining fuel.
o Compare the cost of renting in town or at the airport; sometimes there is a difference
o Book early to get the best price

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Things to Consider in a Car Hire in Spain

Consider the size of the car you need. The car you will need depends on the number of people in your group. A couple can do fine with a compact size car and save money. If you are travelling with your family, you may need a larger vehicle.

You will need to choose between an automatic or manual transmission. A manual transmission has a cheaper rental rate. They also get better fuel mileage. If you want to save money, go for the manual. If you can’t drive a manual or don’t like to, then you will need the automatic.

Does the car have air conditioning? This feature may cost extra money. If you are travelling in the summer, the additional cost will be well worth the money. The summers get very hot and you will appreciate the air.

When you reserve your car, you will be asked for payment by credit card. Get confirmation in writing when you pay the fee. Make sure to get a copy of your rental agreement in your language. Most large companies have multi lingual personnel that can do this for you.

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Ask about the company’s cancellation policy. Some allow you to cancel without a penalty, as long as you cancel before the deadline. Some will make you pay a penalty if you don’t cancel at least twenty four hours in advance. This is generally the price of one day’s rental. Ask about the time required for cancellation without penalty when you reserve the car.

The Iberian Peninsula has been home to several different groups throughout different times in Spain’s history, including the Romans and Moors. As you travel, you can see the influence of these groups, particularly in the buildings and architecture styles. You can see this influence in the area’s remaining castles, old fortifications and churches, some of which show a combination of several styles.

At one time, Spain was the most dominant country in Europe and, thanks to political changes and an increase in tourism it is again one of the strongest countries as far as politics and economy. Unfortunately, though, it did have a period of decline and dictatorship before it returned to a strong nation.

As were most areas during ancient history, most of the area now known as Spain was ruled by the Roman Empire. The Moors occupied most of the area after the Roman empire declined, and many castles and walls built by the Moors can still be seen in various Spanish cities. Until the year 1000, there was a Muslim influence. From this time until the fourteenth century, there was continuous fighting between the Christian and Muslim groups involving wars, revolts and raids.

During the fifteenth century under the rule of Ferdinand and Isabella, the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile united and Spain unified politically, religiously and economically. It was during this time that Catholicism was named the state religion. Any Muslims that did not convert to Catholicism were expelled from the country. It was during this time that Columbus began his infamous exploration and discovered the New World. The gold and silver found turned Spain into one of the most powerful countries. The Hapsburgs ruled during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and the Bourbons ruled during the eighteenth century.

In the 1930s, Spain experienced a civil war between the right wing and left wing groups each fighting for power. Ultimately, the Nationalists took power under Francisco Franco who ruled until he died in 1975. During this time of war and dictatorship, Spain had declined economically and in status. It regained economic strength during the 1960s and 1970s due to a variety of industries, including tourism. Prince Juan Carlos took the throne after Franco died and still rules today. Franco led Spain from dictatorship to a democracy and returned it to one of the strongest nations in Europe in terms of both economy and politics.

Spain is divided into seventeen different regions, all unique culturally and geographically, which can be seen in culture, lifestyle and language. You will begin to see these differences as you travel throughout the country.

You can experience the beauty of Malaga beach, as well as the shimmering nightlife.  If you want a more historical or cultural tour of Malaga than you can find that too.  You can visit famous old churches and fortresses to get an idea of the grand history of this place.

There is a famous Cathedral located in Malaga that used to be the site of a mosque.  A cathedral was built over this location when the Catholic Kings took over this region of Spain. This cathedral was not completed until 1728 and you can see the variety of architectural styles that have shaped the development of this building.

You can also visit La Inglesia del Sagrario if you want an example of a beautiful gothic church.  This church was also built over the site of a mosque. This church was made in 1448 and also has many beautiful pieces art within the church including sculptures and reliefs.

To see a beautifull example of an Andalusian Baroque church then you’ll want to visit the Santuario de la Virgen.  You can find the tombs of the Counts of Buena Vista in this impressive old church.

You can visit the Diocesal Museum in Malaga for a sampling of beautiful religious art pieces.  There is also the museum of Popular Art and Culture, as well as the Museum of Arts where you can see pieces from several different Spanish artists.  This museum is housed in an old palace.

If you want to see the famed King’s Palace called Alcazaba then you are in the right spot.  This was built in the eleventh century and contains a museum full of archealogical treasures.  There are also the ruins of a Roman theatre located on the premises.  You can feel free to stroll through the gardens as well.

After you’ve seen the palace you can head on over to the Castillo de Gibralfaro.  This structure was originally built by the Phoenicians.  The Moors also built a fortress there in the fourteenth century where you are free to tour and look around.

In the summertime there are many different music festivals for you to enjoy, such as the Feria de Verano which happens in the third week of August.  This is a festival dedicated to Flamenco music and dance and there is also a wonderful parade of horses.

You can also enjoy Flamenco music almost any time of year in Malaga.  If you check out the promenade near the sea then you can go to a few different bars and clubs that play live music.  You are free to enjoy a drink on a terrace and soak in the local flavor.  If you go to the Malaguenta part of town you’ll be able to enjoy the best in modern nightlife.

You next step should be what sort of property you would like to rent for your vacation? Do you want to rent an apartment, townhouse, villa or finca (country house with land). However, what you must remember is your budget (how much you are willing to spend on your dream vacation in Spain).

As third step, I would suggest that you go on to the internet and see what the various vacation rentals web sites and holiday home directories have to offer. There are so many interesting places in Spain where you can go. Chose some vacation properties and contact the owners of them. Ask for more pictures and information of the vacation home and maybe for some pictures and information about the district. Chose one of them and book it online. The most vacation rental owners accept credit card payments.

Book a cheap international plane tickets for your holidays and start your adventure.

Barcelona - chose vacation rental in the Spain’s funkiest city -with plenty of restaurants and bars at reasonable prices. A typical Barcelona apartment has normally everything you would expect for a comfortable stay. Are you more likely to rent a modern apartment than a traditional? Barcelona has it all, including modernist architecture represented by Montaner, Domиnech, Cadafalch and Puig with famous buildings like the Pedrera, also known as “Casa Milа” and the Casa Batllт, located on the Passeig de Gracia, and internationally portrayed in just about every postcard of the city. Your accommodation in Barcelona also include many other benefits of a stay in Eastern Spain, such as lots of good beaches nearby, as well as amenities and activities rounding the so-called Spanish Mediterranean experience. In fact, there are many Barcelona apartments close to the beach and near to famous Las Ramblas, combining the fascination of the sea with the majestic historic heart of the city. Travelers to Barcelona will want to visit La Rambla and Barri Gтtic, a part of the city that has a medieval look which will take you back hundreds of years.

If you chose vacation home in the Guadalhorce valley, you’ll find that you’re never more than 25 minutes from the coast, which makes this area hugely popular among tourists.

Alhaurin - rent holiday home in area of outstanding natural beauty where life is lived in a traditional Spanish vein, with centuries of culture and tradition evident. Even though the town of Alhaurin has become very cosmopolitan, life maintains a Spanish feel. The town is famed for its many traditional celebrations, including the Feria de Mayo and El Dia de la Cruz in May, Dia de Jesus in June, and the Dia de la Virgin in August. In addition, the Easter week celebrations attract tourists from across Europe. Improvements are currently being made to the areas infrastructure. However, there are already two golf courses nearby, while the surrounding countryside offers plenty of hiking, cycling and climbing opportunities. Fans of outdoor activities will find that there are many leisure activities to pursue, while the beach is only 15 kilometres away. Alhaurin el Grande is a pretty town with whitewashed houses and colourful shutters. There are a number of attractions, including the 12th century Moorish Archway, the old Arabic fort and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, with its Roman columns and town church.

Spanish property for sale - finding YOURS

Spain is medium sized country with population thinly spread out throught the entire country. There is vast streches of hilly areas which over look the sea and have become a best location to build villas. These hills have their own water supply and hence it comes a feasible location for building a township or a villa as per the requirements of the customer. The speciality of these areas are that they are a short distance away from the main city. This adds special feature to the hilly locations. They have the peace of the hills and are easily accessible from the main city.  Other an the hills, most of he apartments have a own community swimming pool and independent villas of course have their own swimming pools.

Finding a Spanish property for sale that fits the family wishes and requirements can be a daunting task.

First you have to ask what kind of Spanish property for sale that are you looking for. This includes searching for suitable areas, price range, property type etc. This takes some thinking and discussing over the family dinners and also researching Spanish property for sale over the Internet. You will find many a lot of Spanish properties for sale, but more importantly you will get an understanding of the Spanish market. Also, you can find other people who have already found their homes, and some of them share their experiences.

Make contact with the estate agent who has the Spanish property for sale you would like have more information about. This can be done from home, and you should also take time to speak to the agent on the phone (ask them to call you) to find out if the agent understands your wishes and requirements. There are many agents who will show you any Spanish property for sale, but take your time, and if it doesn’t work with the first agent, then just call the next one.

The real estate agent assists you in finding a Spanish property for sale
Typically an agent will be escorting you on the viewing trip to see the any Spanish property for sale you have asked for and explain about the areas where they are located. The viewings are always arranged on a “one to one” basis, where you are the only client. The same agent will support you from start to finish, saving you the stress, and time, and hassle re-explaining your wishes and requirements. It is important to come to a decision with peace of mind and at your own pace. The buying procedure and how to obtain a mortgage will also be explained on the viewing tour if needed.

We found our “Dream Home” - support please!
A thorough step-by-step walk through of the buying process is often required, including the legal aspects of buying a property in Spain. An agent should go through different options on how to get the mortgage in place, and should visit one or more banks with you.
After having bought the Spanish property for sale where are looking for, the agent should be your contact to the Spanish, and assist you with renting, renovation work or any other help needed with your property.

Here’s some information on Spain: Passports and Customs

All of the documentation you will need to display to enter the country depends on your situation. If you are from a non European Union country you will need to show a valid passport to enter Spain.  Even then, residents of some countries are required to show a visa.

If you’re a Resident of countries, which are members of the European Economic Community, you’ll need to show national identification documents. A few countries residents must still show a visa with these documents. Contact the Spanish consulate in your home country if you’re not sure what you need. They’ll help you find out what you need.

Becoming familiar with the rules of customs in Spain will save you time and stress when you arrive. For personal items, such as cameras, jewelry, video equipment and similar gear there are no customs charges. Be sure to ask for a receipt for these items at customs to justify your entry with them.

Customs charges and limits on some things apply when entering the country. The limits are on items such as perfume, cigarettes, and wine. If you’ve gone over the limit, you’ll need to pay additional fees. There’s no limit on the amount of money you can bring into Spain. This can be in either Euros or foreign currency.

You can bring your pets through customs, providing that you have the proper documentation. You’ll be asked to show a certificate of origin as well as a health certificate for your pet. You’ll also be mandated to show that the pet has had all necessary vaccines, especially rabies. Your veterinarian must sign the certificates.

Here’s Information on Living in Spain and Spanish Culture

There are variations in the food. Food represents the geographic cultural history of the residents. You’ll see the influence of the Moors in some of the spices used in Spanish cuisine, for example cumin and saffron. The cultural history of the countries peasants can be seen in the delectable soups and stews, as well as in freshly grown vegetables.

A popular dish in the Valencia region is Paella. The original recipe had its beginning in the Spanish Civil War. The original recipe consisted of rabbit, homegrown veggies, and rice. Paella is still popular in this region, as well as in other.

One of the best spots for golf in Spain is the Costa del Sol.  There have been many new developments of resorts and golf courses over the past few years.  Now there are over forty different courses that stretch up and down over fifty miles of coastline.  You’ll be sure to take in a beautiful view while you golf.

If you want a golf course that combines the best in golf with other sports or leisure activities than this is the spot for you.  Spain hosts a wide variety of golf resorts that also include a great spa experience.  This is ideal for a couple so that one can be in the spa while the other is on the course.

Check out the amenities in your resort before picking the best one for you.  You can find resorts that have fully equipped swimming pools, hot tubs, a large gym and weight room, private beaches, tennis lessons, bike rental, and many other activities.  This will help you travel with your whole family so that there is something for everyone to enjoy while you are on your vacation.

When you’ve decided on golfing in Spain, then make sure you go online to read all about your different options.  You can find reviews of many major resorts and smaller courses as well.  These reviews will help you pick the right destination for you and your family.  When you use reviews written by both professionals and tourists alike you’ll get a good sense of what each resort has to offer.

You’ll need to remember that golfing in Spain has become really popular in the past few years and you may have to wait for your turn on the course.  When the season is at its peak everyone must wait to play.  Knowing some basic golf etiquette that can help you on the Spanish courses and in golf in general.

When you are playing a very slow game of gold this can be frustrating for your party and for the people behind you.  You should try to keep the game moving forward and everyone should be paying attention to his or her turn.  When you are ready for your turn you should jump right up and swing so you don’t keep people waiting too long behind you.

Once your shot is completed you should move onto the next hole.  You can mark your score down when you are waiting for your next shot, rather than keeping everyone waiting behind you at the hole you have just finished play.  If you happen to lose a ball then keep moving on and look for it later, rather than having the group behind you wait for you to find it.  These are things that will make your trip and other people’s trip more pleasant.

Spain boasts over 30 international airports. Information on the major airports follows; information on any of the others can be obtained from AENA (Aeropuertos Espanoles y Navegación Aérea) Calle Arturo Soria 109, Madrid 28043 (tel: (90) 240 4704 (customer service line); website: www.aena.es), which is the organization responsible for running all of the Spanish airports.

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Madrid (MAD) (Barajas) is 15km (9 miles) northeast of the city. A bus service departs to the city around every 10 to 30 minutes (0700-2400) and underground services run every four to seven minutes (0600-0130). Taxi service is available. Airport facilities include restaurants and bars, a bank, several car hire offices, hotel reservation and tourist information desks, and outgoing duty free shop.

Barcelona (BCN) (del Prat) is 12km (7 miles) southwest of the city. Bus service to the city departs Mon-Fri every 15 minutes, Sat every 30 mins and Sun every 20 mins (0600-2400). Rail service is every 30 minutes (0645-2340). Taxi service to the city is available, costing about &Euro;18 (travel time - 30 minutes). Airport facilities include a bank, restaurant, bar, several car hire companies, hotel reservation and tourist information desks and duty free shops.

Alicante (ALC) (Altet) is 12km (7 miles) southwest of the city. Bus service runs to the city (0655-2310) every 10 to 40 minutes, costing &Euro;1. A taxi service is available to the city, costing about &Euro;12. There is a taxi connection between Alicante and Valencia Airport. Airport facilities include a duty free shop, bank, bureau de change, car hire, tourist information and restaurant.

Bilbao (BIO) (Sondika) is 10km (6 miles) north of the city. Bus and taxi services to the city are available (travel time - 30 minutes) and cost about &Euro;1. Airport facilities include a restaurant, duty free shop, tourist information desk and car hire.

Málaga (AGP) is 10km (6 miles) southwest of the city. Buses run every 10 to 30 minutes (travel time - 20 minutes). Train service runs every 30 minutes and costs about &Euro;1. Taxi service to the city is available, costing &Euro;12. Airport facilities include duty free shop, bank/bureau de change, restaurant and car hire.

Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) is 10km (6 miles) northeast of the city. Buses and taxis are available to the city center (travel time - 10 to 15 minutes). Airport facilities include bar, banks, car hire and shops.

Seville (SVQ) is 8km (5 miles) from the city. Taxis and buses are available to the city center (travel time - 20 to 30 minutes).

Valencia (VLC) (Manises) is 8km (5 miles) west of the city. Taxis and buses (0600-2300, every 15 minutes) are available to the city center (travel time - 60 minutes (bus), 30 minutes (taxi). Airport facilities include several car hire firms, bank/bureau de change, restaurant, bar and duty free shop.

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Touted as one the world’s famous tourist destinations, Barcelona, travelers to Spain will find the openwork spires of the El Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia or the Church of the Holy Family. The personal obsession of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi y Cornet was reflected in the neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece reknowned for its undulating curves and flamboyant design just before he died in a trolley accident. Travelers to Spain’s Barcelona will also find the paved thoroughfare Las Ramblas leading to Plaza de Catalu’a fascinating. In the oldest section of the city, travelers to Spain will get to see the Church of San Pablo del Ocampo and the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, which is a monument to Christopher Columbus. In Barcelona, the Barri Gotic and the red brick Arc del Triomf can be found. Both were designed by Josep Vilaseca.

Travelers to Spain will love touring Barcelon’s finest educational and art institutions. Among them are the University of Barcelona, the Autonomous University of Barcelona, the Royal Archives of Aragon, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Contemporary Art Museum.

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a metropolis known for its nightlife. Travelers to Spain will be entertained with its bars and summer terazas. Areas of note are the Chueca and the Circulo de Bellas Artes where travelers to Spain can enjoy relaxing and drinking in its many bars and discotecas. Three of the finest museums in the world can also be found in Madrid. travel through Spain’s art history as you view the country’s art collection. Museo del Prado is the most famous of the lot. Travelers to Spain will be able to see in the museum Velazquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s Las Majas.

The Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, on the other hand, houses Pablo Picasso’s Geurnica, a depiction of the Spanish Civil War. Travelers to Spain should consider the following notable museums such as Thyssen-Bornemisza art museum that houses close to 800 paintings; the Lazaro Galdiano Museum; the National Library, which houses every book published in Spain; Museum of Bullfighting; the National Museum of Decorative Arts; and the Cultural Center of Madrid, which contains a theater for zarzuela, Spain’s version of the opera. Of course, no place will compare to the Royal palace itself, where travelers to Spain can walk through the residential rooms of 18th and 20th century royalty.

Another sight that travelers to Spain should not leave without seeing is the Alhambra Palace, which is possibly the greatest work of the Moorish art in Spain. Consisting of several courtyards and patios, this Palace in Granada is a superb piece of architectural work with its elaborate inlaid walls and ceiling designs.

Traveling to Spain will not be complete without visiting Cordoba, a city in the South. Look for the Mezquita, Europe’s grandest and utmost gorgeous mosque. Alcazar is another magnificent tourist destination. This Moorish palace was the venue for the Inquisition though it is currently essentially in ruins.

Spain’s sprawling beaches and resorts also provide the perfect tourist destination. Travelers to Spain will fancy Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava, a string of coves from Palamos to Begur.

There are several beaches in Costa Tropical, Andalucía and some of them are the finest in Spain and Europe. Let’s take a look at the top 10 beaches here:

The La Herradura beach (Granada)
This beach is situated in Granada and you can always drive down by car. It is an extremely beautiful and clean beach although it has been formed from two nudist beaches. This doesn’t mean that non-nudists are not allowed. In fact, you will find both nudists as well as non-nudists having their sun and tan at the beach. The transparent water attracts many scuba divers.

Length of the beach: 340m
Type of terrain: Coarse Gravel
Type of waves: Still

La Calaza
This beach is situated in the Herradura region of Costa tropical and the entire beach is made from a series of small coves. It is a place where you can relax and find mental peace. The environment is stimulating and un-crowded.

Length of the beach: 50m
Type of terrain: Rocky Area
Type of waves: Still

lmuñécar (Granada)
The Imunecar beach situated in Granada offers some of the most spectacular views in the region. You can take a walk down the beach to the Bajio Cove or you can spend time watching people drive their boats into the sea for fishing. There is an asphalted road all along the beach and you will find many local eateries lines up.

Length of the beach: 200m
Type of terrain: Fine Gravel
Type of waves: Still

Cabria (Almuñécar)
The Cabria beach has a unique aspect to it: the sand here is dark grey in color and has sugarcane plantations around the beach. You have seen palm fringed beaches, this is the one and only sugar cane fringed beach in the world. There are two parts of the beach, one is the promenade that offers views of the Almuñecar while the other part is the sandy coastline from where you can enjoy the refreshing blue waters of the sea.

Length of the beach: 330m
Type of terrain: Coarse Gravel
Type of waves: Still

El Muerto, Almuñécar (Granada)

Two beaches have been joined together to form the El Muerto beach and are seperated by a promenade, which can also be reached from the Cotobro Beach. The Cotobro is classified as a nudist beach. The El Muerto beach is open to nudists as well as non-nudists and is one of the most natural and unspoilt beaches in the area.

Length of the beach: 580m
Type of terrain: Coarse Gravel
Type of waves: Still

Some of the other top beaches include the Barranco de en Medio (Almuñécar), San Cristobel (Almuñécar), Calabajio (Almuñécar), Ensenada de los Berengueles (Almuñécar) and Tesorillo  (Almuñécar).