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Time Difference: GMT + 1 Flight time: 2 - 2½ hours Currency: Euro |
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What's it really like ? Climate: Summer; the temperature soars to well above the Spanish average due to the mountains which act as a windbreak. Winter; mild, often cloudy. This is it - the daddy of 'em all. Take another look at that famous skyline and wonder ... 1.5 million British visitors a year can't all be wrong ... can they? Benidorm boasts 35 thousand hotel beds among those skyscrapers - that's more than you'll find in the whole of Greece and her islands ... put together! It was born in the 1950's and has grown into a laugh-a-minute resort. If it were a movie it would be a 'Carry On...', if it were a meal it would be fish and chips, and if Benidorm was in England it would be Blackpool - the promenade even has its own illuminations. It is big, bold and sassy. It is also clean, if a little rough around the edges in places. Between October and May the tempo drops to a relaxing, sedate pace for the more mature visitors.
Note: The Poniente area is quieter and the mainly flat terrain makes the resort ideal for the less mobile. Wheelchair ramps have been installed on the beaches with access to the sea. Changing facilities for people with disabilities are also available. Beaches: Two huge sweeping curves of the cleanest sand you'll find anywhere - known locally as Poniente and Levante, both beaches are swept thoroughly in the early hours. The sea, too is an award winner for cleanliness. Water sports are available during the peak months. Days Out: Summer: The big attraction is 'Terra Mitica' - a theme park boasting rides and slides for every age - small kids have their own scaled-down versions, (queues can be up to an hour). Free buses ferry visitors to and from the attraction.
Watersports include paragliding, scuba-diving and water skiing, plus, boat trips along the coast. For land-lubbers there's go-karting, golf and tennis. Winter: One of the most popular excursions is a visit to Valencia and the world famous Lladro factory where you can pick up 'seconds' or perfect pottery at reasonable prices. There are several quaint villages nearby for a taste of older Spain. Nights Out: Summer : Oh, yes. Benidorm's club scene is hotter than a hot thing, second only to Ibiza. Every night is Saturday night with foam parties, laser shows and every kinda music, all ripping it up! Entrance fees for most clubs; about a tenner, more if a top DJ's mixing it. Winter: No shortage of British-styled pubs, bars and tea rooms. Nightclubs with cabaret and the popular Medieval Tournament for some 14th Century fun. Ballroom dancing and karaoke, hotel floorshows or quiet strolls along the tree lined promenade to the older, more authentic part of town. Bucket and Spade Brigade: Benidorm can be a kids paradise, thanks to 'Terra Mitika', 'Aqualandia' and that familiar British influence. If they are light sleepers you might want to choose accommodation away from the boisterous action otherwise they should lap it up.
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