The sun is shining again - something that those of us who live here take for granted, but probably the thing which attracts millions of Brits to Benidorm every year. That and the miles of golden sandy beaches, nightlife, activities - did you know that there are 5 theme parks here, fiestas, value for money... the list can go on and on. Most that visit come back time and time again - and many are asked why they keep going back to the same place when there are so many others. Often it is a simple answer - there is something for everyone in Benidorm and the best bit is that it´s only a few hours flight away from the UK. 

 

 

The exchange rate at the moment is really good - 1.19€ to the pound today and that money can take you a long way here. A three course Menu del Dia is easily done for under 10€ - and that includes half a bottle of wine.... which works out at 8.50 GBP! A coffee, liqueur and slice of cake for just over a euro - Starbucks eat your heart out. 

 

 

There is always something going on in Benidorm - hardly a month goes by without some kind of fiesta here. The town is seeped in history, culture and tradition which is not always apparent if you don´t venture out from the Rincon area. The Old Town is like stepping back in time - with narrow cobbled streets and white washed houses which nestle in between bars, restaurants and shops. In the hot Summer months you will see old ladies sitting outside on the street every evening, chattering away and fanning themselves while holiday makers walk past. It is most definitely the complete opposite to the Calle Gerona - loud, vibrant and full of energy. 

 

 

Head towards the distinctive blue doomed roof of the San Jaime church and you arrive at the Mirador, where you will have a breathtaking view of both bays - a real kodak moment (gosh Im showing my age now)! Throughout the Summer months there is a night market there, with lots of little stalls selling arts and crafts - very popular and always packed. 

 

 

One of the things that remain unchanged throughout Spain are weekly street markets, which remain popular and virtually every town and village has one. Benidorm has not one but two - both held twice a week on a Wednesday and Sunday. The one which is most popular with the tourists is in the Rincon - beside the Hotel Pueblo and Hotel Helios... just follow the crowds. The other market, favoured by the locals is by the train station in the Old Town. 

 

But for most Benidorm is a party capital - where you will be guaranteed a first class night, and morning of fun. Nightclubs and cabaret bars offer free entertainment - often enticing you in with free shots. You can hear and watch a huge variety of singers, tribute groups and comedians to suit all tastes in one of the many clubs along Calle Gerona and the immediate streets. Drink is far cheaper and what attracts the young ones - especially Stag and Hen groups.  

 

If you´ve never been try it - and if you have, I bet you can´t wait to get back! A great time to come is for one of the fiestas - The Moor and Christians at the end of September or the main Benidorm Fiesta at the beginning of November - with the famous British Fancy Dress on Thursday 13th November.