Spanish for 50+

Alicante, Spain

Alicante is the heart of the Costa Blanca, a good sized town of about 300,000 inhabitants. Gateway to the fabulous and famous wide sandy beaches of the Spanish Mediterranean coast, this city offers the visitor both tranquility and style. The Castillo de Santa Barbara, perched on a hill overlooking the city and the sea, is not particularly interesting but it makes for a great picture! Alicante's center is remarkably contained and you can reach the various sections in only a couple of minutes walking. The Old Quarter (El Barrio) in front of the Cathedral consists of narrow winding streets and here is where you can find most of the very active nightlife. Then there is excellent shopping in wide, tree-lined avenues and for a little 'See and be seen' action you could stroll along the Explanada, the promenade along the Marina, and have a drink at one of the many terraces that line the promenade. This, combined with the pleasant climate, many Festivals and interesting villages and Roman ruins nearby, makes for a destination where you will never get bored!

From its dazzling beaches to its ancient castles, Spain is a country as diverse as the cultures which have influenced its art, architecture, music and lifestyle. It is a land where cathedrals and castles are interspersed with skyscrapers, where modern rock mixes with flamenco guitar, and night clubs compete with cozy "tapas" bars. Spain offers some of the world's most famous museums, resorts, and festivals, making it a unique and enchanting destination.