Benidorm, Spain, with a permanent population under 70,000 is a small city, off the Mediterranean Sea, in the Province of Alicante. Not so long ago, just before the 1960’s in fact, this was just a small, quiet and somewhat quaint fishing village. Today, the luxury hotels Benidorm offer, along with the beautiful beaches, great climate, magnificent skyscrapers, fabulous restaurants and unusual landmarks, this city has become a very popular and famous holiday delight. The hotels are sheer pleasure with their elaborate decor both inside and out. The staff is very pleasant and helpful, giving excellent service.

Benidorm has a very rigid rule initiated in 1954 by then mayor, Pedro Zaragoza Orts. It was required that every building have an area of leisure land around it whereby prohibiting the encroachment of other structures into that space. Benidorm is the only city in Spain that still adheres to this old regulation, but in so doing it has prevented the tight congestion found in other cities. When you climb to a high peak, you are pleasantly surprised by the amount of green lushness throughout the city.

There is so much to see and do here, for instance, the Benidorm International Song Festival is held every summer, as has been the case since 1959. Julio Iglesias and Raphael both become famous after performing at this very popular song contest. The theme parks are a big hit for young families, there is abundant shopping so finding those unique souvenirs and treasures to take home will not be a problem, the beautiful beaches, the active and vibrant nightlife, the fabulous restaurants with excellent seafood dishes. And did I happen to mention the nightlife? Oh yes, Benidorm is known for its all night bars and nightclubs with their bright lights, loud music and fast dancing. You will leave part of yourself in Benidorm but find that you have taken part of Benidorm home.