Archive for December, 2008

Nightlife and Happenings in Benidorm

Benidorm is a town that is home to some 70,000 residents. However, at any given time of the year, this town becomes a haven for millions of tourists looking for an unforgettable Spanish holiday along its picturesque beaches. Water sports like jet skiing, wakeboarding, wind surfing, diving, and more, are among the most popular activities for Benidorm visitors. As a matter of fact, tourism has boomed over the years, strengthening the economy of this town also called as the Manhattan of Spain.

But what do tourists in Benidorm do when the sun goes down and the beaches are no longer hot and sunny? The night life in Benidorm opens up a different dimension for its many fun-loving visitors. Whether you are after delicious food, great wine, world-class entertainment, or non-stop dancing, the night life in Benidorm will surely not disappoint you. You may even find it difficult to have enough time to enjoy all the great attractions in one night!

The beach of Levante along the northern coast of Benidorm is home to several clubs, restaurants, pubs, and theaters to cater to all your night life demands. Most of these establishments are open until the wee hours of the morning, so you can party as long as you want! There are pubs that have an international assortment of food and drinks, while there are clubs that are themed depending on what you’re in the mood for. Check out clubs that offer a rock and roll feel, a western atmosphere, and even clubs that are made especially for tourists who love disco. Examples of these are: Penelope, KM Playa, Heartbreak, Daytona Rock Bar, and KM Disco, to name a few. There are several other beach side cafes and restaurants for those who want to relax in the cool sea breeze.

If you get tired from dancing your heart out, then why not spend an evening watching awesome musical performances and dance shows from various genres? Wine and dine as you listen to jazz performers at Sinatra’s, or take in the entertainment from cabaret performances at Chaplin’s. The Shamrock offers tourists a feel of an Irish pub, with Irish musicians and dancers included! A notable show that you should definitely not miss is the huge production at the Benidorm Palace, where exotic dancers and stunning costumes await you. Critics claim that the Benidorm Palace gives you Las Vegas style entertainment, with its own distinctive flair. World class performers are featured on their shows every night, so be sure to book early so you can get great seats.

As you can see, night life in Benidorm is anything but ordinary. From dazzling musicals to rocking night clubs, you will definitely have the time of your life in this town. Even when the sun sets, you will never run out of things to do while in Benidorm. So what are you waiting for? If you are after great beach fun in the day time, and even more enjoyment at night, then head on over to Benidorm for a truly memorable vacation.

Posted On: December 31st, 2008
Posted In: Benidorm
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Taking a Trip through the Old Town

The town of Benidorm along Costa Blanca in Spain is well-known for its popular beach destinations for tourists who love the sun and surf. Benidorm is proud of tourism as one of its biggest economy boosters over the past decades, and as a matter of fact, aqua sports are among the hottest activities for the millions of beachgoers in this region. However, taking a trip through Benidorm involves more than just getting a tan or splashing in the waves. There are actually more sights that create an irresistible charm, one that keeps visitors coming back to Benidorm every year. A great example of a must-see is the Old Town.

The Old Town is ideally nestled between the two main beaches of Benidorm, the Levante and Poniente. If you take a trip to the promontory or cliff overlooking these two beaches, you will surely be awed by the spectacular views. On top of this high land mass sits the Balcon del Mediterrano, which is historically known as a fortress built to protect the shores against Berber pirates hundreds of years ago. The promontory also over looks the Mal Pas Beach, known as a favored site for vacationers who love beach volleyball and water sports.

The Old Town proudly preserves its charm that has been there for centuries. Among the oldest buildings found on its cobblestone streets is the San Jaime Church, which was erected in the mid 1700’s. This iglesia, or church, features Neo-Classical architecture, and is well-recognized for its blue-tiled roofs, which locals popular call as the blue tile hats. The Benidorm Castle is a stronghold found near the Old Town, and it has been around since the 1300’s. This is an ideal venue for sightseeing and picture-taking.

There are several shops in the Old Town where you can get bargains on produce, fish, as well as souvenirs. For more modern shopping choices, you can head to the Town Center, where signature and designer labels can be found. If you are feeling a little hungry around the Old Town, you are sure to find lots of restaurants, cafes, and specialty food stores to tickle your palates. A famous spot for drinks like wine and beers is Santo Domingo street, and for great appetizers and delicious Spanish dishes, head on over to Tapas Alley. As the sun sets on Benidorm, the Old Town comes alive with venues that host musical performances, dinner shows, and more for visitors who enjoy a night out.

Conveniently enough, besides the multitude of shops, cafes, and restaurants you can see as you stroll along the Old Town, accommodations are also not a problem. There are several reputable hotels in the Old Town, ready to cater to the comfort of their guests. You can select hotels that are nearer to the beach, or more accessible to commercial establishments. If you would like to have accommodations that provide more privacy, you may opt to rent a holiday home or apartment, as there are also many available here at the Old Town.

Posted On: December 30th, 2008
Posted In: Benidorm, Featured
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Touring the Town of Guadalest

Also known as El Castell de Guadalest, the 16 square kilometer Valencian town is a popular destination for guests who enjoy a colorful and rich cultural tour. The town is about 25 kilometers inland from the beach side destination of Benidorm, and is home to less than 250 residents. Historically speaking, Guadalest was a fortification, built by the Spanish royal family in the 12th century for protection against the invasion of Moors.

If you would like to take in the rich history of the town, then a museum tour would be most appropriate. Luckily enough, this small town of Guadalest is home to several museums, featuring different collections from various eras. A good museum to visit to learn more about the political significance of Guadalest is the Orduna House or Town Museum, built by the most prominent families that resided in Guadalest since the 1200’s. to know more about agriculture and early life of the villagers in Guadalest, the Ethnological Museum is a great place to visit. Learn how olive oil and bread used to be made using old-fashioned tools and equipment.

Particularly in the old village in Guadalest, you might be interested in seeing the Dolls Museum, Micro-Gigantic Museum, and the Torture Museum. At the Micro-Gigantic Museum, you will need a magnifying glass to view interesting displays such as a Bible written on a strand of hair, an ant playing the violin, and many more. The Torture Museum features an assortment of devices used since the Middle Ages for lawbreakers.

Apart from its rich assortment of museums, Guadalest is a picturesque town, holding an innate beauty that has remained unchanged over the centuries. An 11th century structure, known as the Alcozaiba Castle, was built by Moors, and as of the present, only remnants of the building still stand. You may need to have strong legs to be able to view this building, as there are stone steps that need to be climbed leading to the castle atop its rock. In Guadalest is also a 12th century Gaol or Guadalest Prison, with most of its original walls still standing.

While in Guadalest, you need not worry about your accommodations, as there are hotels in the area for tourists who like to stop by. Not only that, as you also have the option of renting out apartments or houses throughout the duration of your stay in Guadalest. If you are feeling hungry, there are several food establishments and restaurants in this picturesque town, to suit the tastes of visitors craving for Spanish cuisines.

Guadalest creates a certain charm that blends the past with the present. Interestingly enough, a huge portion of the walled and open villages in Guadalest have been well preserved, even after hundreds of years. While you are vacationing in Spain, make a note to see this age-old fortification, and take a trip through history in Guadalest.

Posted On: December 29th, 2008
Posted In: Benidorm
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