• The Spanish love kids, and yours will be welcome anywhere. Although smaller bars and restaurants may not always have perfect facilities, such as high chairs etc. For Junior, that is more than compensated for by the kissing, fussing and attention that you get!

• The pace of life is definitely relaxed and the siesta is alive and well, making sure that Mom and Dad get an extra chance to nap in the heat of the day. Can´t be bad!

• Compared to other European destinations, the cost of living is still very cheap, and especially a little inland away from the Costas, your money really goes a long way.

• If you choose the right location, you can get a great family holiday with a mix of entertainment, excitement and culture for all the family.

So, where would I recommend?

• For an excellent all round family holiday, try the resort of Benalmádena on the Costa Del Sol. Built around a beautiful marina, there is plenty of accomodation in the resort. The Sunset Beach Club is particularly good, with self catering apartments available within the hotel itself, and a daily kids club “Club Pirata” for the 5 and over age group. There is a seperate teenagers activity group.The resort also boasts a Tivoli Land theme park, excellent value to get in and rides for all ages, a Sea Life Centre, a huge park with playgrounds and animals, Tourist train, cable cars to the top of the mountain where the kids can ride donkeys and watch the birds of prey, and last but not least.. lovely beaches.

• The Mar Menor. Meaning “Small Sea” this lagoon is actually protected from the open sea by La Manga, a long thin strip of land. Because of this, the waters are calmer, shallow and warmer by a couple of degrees making it perfect and safe for younger children. Famous for it´s golf courses, La Manga also has a lot to offer. Close to the historic city of Cartagena with shops, museums, castle, Tourist cruises from the Marina, and much more. And of course, tell Dad not to forget the golf clubs!

• For natural beauty on the coast, try the resorts of Javea, Denia and Moriara on the Costa Blanca. In winter it rains a little more here, which makes it greener than some of the hotter parts of Spain. Perfect beach holiday resorts, and for young children the Water Parks, amusement parks and zoos at Benidorm are only about an hours drive away.

• The best amusement park here has to be the Warner Brothers Park at Madrid. Combine a stay in the area with a 2 day pass to the park, and once the kids are exhausted , you might have a chance to visit some of the world famous museums, shops and culture that make up this vibrant and fascinating city.

• Don´t forget that Spain has a lot more to offer than beaches. Inland the mountains are breathtaking, and fans of nature, hiking and biking could do worse than visit the Sierra Espunas (here on my doorstep). With acres of protected natural parks, stunning views, bars, restaurants, medieval villages and pretty market towns nestling at the bottom, it is a paradise for outdoor types. And if you are coming this way, don't forget to get in touch for a free tour guide!

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