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There are several sources of information on the Internet. If you’re interested in a particular place or aspect of the region, see the following websites for more information.

The region enjoys a very mild climate. The year-round average temperature is 18–20ºC (64–68ºF) with some 320 sunny days. Coastal areas have highs fluctuating between 15ºC (59ºF) and 30ºC (86ºF). Inland, average city highs vary from 12ºC (54ºF) in January to 36ºC (97ºF) in August.

Every season offers its reasons to come here: summer for nightlife, spring and autumn for nature, winter for skiing. But autumn is the best time – the weather is still good, the water is warm, the crowds have gone, prices are lower and there are lots of local festivals.

Britons, Americans, Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians and EU citizens need only a valid passport to stay for 90 days. Other nationalities must get a visa from their Spanish consulate.

If you have any questions, your local Spanish embassy or consulate is well equipped to help you.

For any further questions whilst in Spain, contact your country’s consulate.

This service (see Planning Your Trip) will provide maps and brochures on request.

The time zone is that for Western Continental Europe (GMT +1 hour). Voltage is 220, and round-pronged plugs are used. UK gadgets need an adapter; US counterparts also require a transformer. The minimum age for driving is 18.

It is always a good idea to obtain private medical insurance. Then, if you require treatment while on holiday, you pay for the care, keep the receipts and are reimbursed according to the terms of your policy. General travel insurance is also recommended.

Walking and hiking are up-close ways to explore the countryside, and many companies offer well-organized groups.

Nature lovers can take to trails on horseback, peer at the local birdlife from special hides, see the dolphins at the Straits of Gibraltar, or go on a nature safari.

Tours of the famous wine cellars (bodegas ) in the Sherry Triangle and Málaga can be arranged either on the spot or in advance. Tours often feature samplings of great wines as well as gastronomic delights.

Learn to dance, Spanish-style. The flamenco-based sevillana is a must for fiesta-goers, while the salsa is popular at clubs.

Combining a holiday with courses in Spanish is a popular choice. Schools often offer a range of other activities.

Many companies organize art, architecture and archaeology tours, or courses on regional cookery, painting and more.

With more than 50 courses on the Costa del Sol (see Costa del Sol Golf Courses) and ideal weather it’s little wonder that the world comes here to play golf. Many hotels cater specifically to the golfer, and there are many specialist operators.

Scuba-diving, paragliding, hot-air ballooning, snowboarding – these are just a few of the more extreme sports you can find in Andalucía.

The luxury-minded traveller has plenty of options, including a train tour on the opulent AlAndalus Expreso.

Málaga is the main airport in Andalucía, but many other cities in the region also have airports – European flights also come into Seville, Jerez, Almería and Gibraltar. All airports have both bus and taxi services to city centres, except for Jerez, which only has taxis.

Most international flights land at Málaga and the list of carriers is vast. The airport is 6 km (4 miles) southwest of the city. There is a train service to the east and west of the region, as well as buses. Taxis are also an option.

Most air traffic to Andalucía is made up of charter flights, which are cheaper than scheduled flights. For budget flights to the region, try those recommended below:

Most travel agencies will have slick, full-colour brochures touting these complete getaway deals, and the prices often include full- or half-board accommodation as well as transport. Be aware, however, that these packages are usually centred in the most congested and touristy resorts on the coast, and you may not get a true impression of Andalucía.

From Madrid, it is a day’s drive down to Andalucía. To get to Spain with your own car from the UK, options include ferries to France or to the north of Spain itself. Another alternative is to load your car on to an overnight train from Paris and collect it in Madrid the next morning.

The ferries from the UK connect with trains to Córdoba and Málaga direct from Bilbao, another with connections in Madrid from Santander. If you’re coming to Andalucía from the Balearic Islands, there are ferries from Palma to Barcelona and Valencia, from which you can take the train down to the south.

This option works out, in most cases, to be more expensive than a low-cost flight. And from the UK, for example, it can be a gruelling 35-hour trip. Consider it as a last resort.

From Madrid there are 20 high-speed AVE trains daily to Seville. The journey takes 2 hours 20 minutes, with a stop in Córdoba. From Barcelona, the train trip to Seville is about 9 hours.

Renting a car in Andalucía is comparatively cheap. Local firms will generally treat you better, even delivering and picking up the vehicle. Most companies require that drivers be at least 25 years old, with a valid licence and credit card. Make sure there are no hidden charges.

If you don’t have your own wheels, the bus system is the best way to get around. Buses go to almost every village, sooner or later, and the roads have improved in recent years, shortening routes. There are dozens of companies dividing up the market, with multiple bus stations in some towns. You can buy tickets on board.

Train connections between major towns are fairly developed and there are some regional routes as well. Recently built stations in Seville and Córdoba are efficient and user-friendly. However, expect many stops along the way.

Many of the main roads in the region are less than 10 years old and in great condition. The problem is that, as a result, older maps can be confusingly out of date. Expect chaotic driving conditions, as locals pay little attention to rules and signs. Parking in towns and cities can be a real problem – leave the car in a car park and walk.

This is an excellent way to visit the out of the way areas and to discover a side of the region that most pass by. For steep inclines you’ll need a good-sized bike, but if you’re on the coast a scooter will do. Helmets are required by law.

With all the marinas up and down both coasts this mode of transport is a natural if you can afford it. But you’ll need to be an experienced sailor to deal with the heavy currents that dominate the waters around the Strait of Gibraltar – for most, it’s best to stick close to either coast.

Taxis are an affordable way to get around towns – you can find plenty of them cruising the streets to be flagged down. Some have no meters, but the drivers are usually honest about how much the fare should be. It is customary to give the driver a small tip.

Cycling has taken on the dimensions of a major sport all over Spain – especially here, where the weather is so conducive. You’ll see gaggles of Lycra-clad enthusiasts on many of the steepest mountain roads.

During 2006 a new subway system is being introduced in Seville. City centre stations will branch out to the surrounding suburbs, providing a cost effective and efficient means of transport.

This is the best way to explore mountainous areas, and there are many local organizations to help you with maps, suggestions and advice. Make sure you have adequate gear, including cold weather or sun protection.

The region is subject to drought conditions with some regularity, and at such times the tap water can begin to taste fairly unpleasant. Although it is never dangerous, you might prefer to stick with bottled water. When hiking, never drink from streams – the days of pristine mountain springs are long gone.

In the heat of the summer, it’s wise to be attentive to the freshness of what you consume. Tapas (see Tapas Dishes) that look as though they’ve been around a day too long, anything to do with mayonnaise that’s been sitting out of the fridge and, of course, shellfish served in less than fastidiously hygienic establishments are probably best refused.

Despite the casual dress code that predominates here, it is still a good idea to dress respectfully when you visit places of worship, and not to visit at all during mass or religious ceremonies.

In the land of Picasso, it’s wise to be wary of supposed “originals”. Copies, prints, forgeries and outright fakes do brisk business. If you decide to buy any of these pieces, be very certain you’re pledging your trust to a dealer whose credentials are beyond reproach – and get certificates of authentication and guarantees.

In the most heavily touristed zones you’ll occasionally be offered a tour that, on the face of it, looks like something for nothing. It might be a daytrip to some interesting sight at a remarkably cut-rate price, or even an offer of cash or a lavish meal for just going to inspect a new condo or time-share project. These are not promotional bargains in the usual sense, but heavy-handed sales ploys and should be steered clear of.

Many of the snack bars you find along the beaches, especially the most popular beaches, are overpriced and sometimes the food is almost inedible, with a few exceptions. If you want to hang out in such a place for convenience and to enjoy the people-watching, then just get a drink. For meals, head away from the waterfront and into the towns.

These women appear friendly enough when they flounce up to you and try to hand you a flower or a sprig of rosemary. But once you take the bait, they indignantly demand a lot of money for their cheery little “gift”. Do your best to avoid them.

Most pavement peddlers will just call out to you a word or two about their merchandise, but once you evince an interest, you will be under pressure to buy something. Make it clear from the outset that you might want to look, but you’ll decide what, if anything, you’re going to buy. Check all merchandise thoroughly for defects, especially clothing, and then offer half the asking price.

If Grand Prix-style driving is not your thing, it’s best to avoid Andalucía’s most challenging roads. The worst for sheer craziness remains the Costa del Sol’s coastal highway. Some mountain roads are exceedingly narrow, winding and skirt yawning chasms.

If you choose carefully, making sure that you end up in a fairly pleasant part of the coast or near the sights you want to see, all-inclusive packages can be excellent value. They are particularly appealing if all you mainly want is to be handily situated for the beach and have most of your meals covered into the bargain.

Given the wealth of natural beauty here, much of it now given over to parks and reserves, there are excellent picnicking opportunities everywhere. There are also plenty of grocers for all that you’ll need to put together a memorable repast, with settings and views thrown in. Be sure to pick up your litter afterwards.

You’ll certainly need to book very much in advance to secure one of the less expensive self-catering apartments. But it’s worth it, not only for the money you’ll save but also for the freedom you’ll enjoy in doing the region entirely your own way (see Self-Catering Options).

Not all bars and clubs are pricey. Some of the most happening ones, in fact, are free to enter and require nothing of you but to have a good time and enjoy the ambience. No cover charges or minimum charges is a reality here – most of the bars are so busy that no one will notice that you’re nursing your brew all night long.

There are some 130 authorized campsites in the region, mostly along the coast. Camping rough is legal, although not particularly encouraged. It’s prohibited within 1 km (half a mile) of an official campsite, in urban areas, and in zones prohibited for military or ecological reasons. Get permission from the landowner first (see Hostals and Camping).

If you buy anything that has a hefty sales tax tacked onto it and you are a non-EU citizen, keep the receipt, fill out the paperwork, then when you leave you can get a portion of it reimbursed at the airport. Another option for avoiding the 7 percent IVA tax is to have your purchases shipped directly home.

The daily lunch menu in most restaurants can save you a great deal – as much as 75 per cent of the regular à la carte cost. Portions are generally generous, too, so you can make this your major meal of the day. It’s also a great way to savour the cuisine of some of the top restaurants without forking out over-the-top prices.

A few lavanderías automáticas can be found in cities, but don’t bother looking anywhere else. Regular laundries and tintorerías (dry-cleaners) are quite expensive, and hotel services are even more exorbitant. Bring a packet of travel washing detergent with you.

Coupons for reduced group admissions to various attractions can help a lot when you’ve got a whole family to pay for. You’ll find them in various magazines, weekly papers, flyers, brochures and handed out on the street in busy areas. Tourist offices also often have stacks of them lying around as promotional lures.

Now that the euro is the currency of many European countries, life is much easier for visitors to the continent, although the changeover has resulted in some price inflation. Euro banknotes have the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Euro coins come in eight denominations: 1 euro, 2 euros, and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. Visitors from outside the euro zone should check the exchange rates at the time of travel.

If you’re going to opt for this safety precaution, get your cheques directly in euros – you won’t have to pay any commission to cash them and, in some places, you’ll be able to use them as cash. Make sure you keep track of the serial numbers.

For ready cash, this is the best option. Bank machines are everywhere and very reliable. Spanish banks charge no transaction fee; you’ll only have your own bank’s fee to pay for using a non-branch machine.

Using your credit card is possible for almost everything in larger towns. Only the smallest places in the most off-the-beaten-track outposts will find it a problem. However, be aware that your own bank may charge you a 2 percent currency conversion fee for every card purchase you make, so it’s cheaper to use your cash card option.

This expensive, laborious process should be considered only as a last resort. You can have your bank send money to a bank in Spain, but you must organize things at the Spanish end first. Then expect it to take an indeterminate number of days and for there to be substantial charges at both ends of the process.

Post offices (correos ) are open 9am to 2pm and 5pm to 7:30pm, although larger offices do not close for siesta. For letters and postcards, you can also get stamps (sellos ) at tobacco shops and newspaper stands. In general, Spanish post is reliable.

Calling Spain from another country requires dialling 00 then the country code, 34. While you’re in Andalucía you must always dial the regional area code, 95, even if calling locally. To call abroad from Spain, dial 00, then the country code, area code and number of your destination. For local and national information call 11850; for international enquiries call 11825.

Many hotels now allow you to use your laptop for accessing the Internet. Internet cafés are also common sights in every town and city, and even villages.

In the larger towns, you’ll find a good selection of international press: USA Today and the International Herald Tribune are available in the larger kiosks, as well as major British, German, French and Dutch papers. Costa del Sol English-language magazines include The Entertainers , Lookout and Marbella Life .

There are no special inoculations required to visit Andalucía. The only protection you should be sure to use on a regular basis is sunscreen – sunburn and heat stroke are the main sources of discomfort. Some people also experience a slight upset stomach from the change in bacteria in the food and water, although tap water is safe to drink.

If there are any prescription medicines you require, or may require, it’s best to bring them along with you. Due to differing pharmaceutical regulations, different countries may or may not have the drugs you need, or they may be sold under a different name.

For any emergency, give precise information about what is needed and where exactly you are, in Spanish if you are able.

Pharmacies (farmacias ) are a good source of medical advice for minor complaints. The pharmacists are highly trained, often speak good English, and may be able to sell medicines that would normally only be available by prescription at home. In major towns you’ll find at least one pharmacy open 24 hours.

If you are seriously ill and need a doctor who speaks your language, you can get details from your local consulate (see Spanish Embassies & Consulates Abroad), hotel, pharmacy or tourist office. If you need someone who works under the EU health plan, make sure that the doctor is part of the Spanish health care system; otherwise, be prepared to pay and be reimbursed later by your insurance company.

Generally speaking, Andalucía is not very well set up for travellers with any sort of disability. The best bet for adequate facilities are the newer hotels, since the law requires that all new public buildings be fully accessible. Older structures will present problems for those in wheelchairs.

Condoms need no longer be smuggled into Spain, as they had to be during the Franco era. They are available in pharmacies, bars and even vending machines on the street.

In the case of an accident dial the emergency number or call the Cruz Roja (Red Cross), who will send an ambulance and paramedics. There are good international hospitals along the Costa del Sol, and in major cities.

In any crowded area, there are bound to be pickpockets. The best solution is not to carry any valuables in easily accessible places. Wallets should be safely tucked into inside closed pockets or under your clothing in a money belt. Never leave bags unattended.

Historically lagging behind in providing for people with mobility problems, Spain has begun to catch up in recent years. At least at the airport you should find adequate facilities – as long as you notify your travel agent and/or airline of your needs in advance and then reconfirm a week before departure.

The older buildings, often refurbished medieval structures, are usually entirely without facilities for the disabled – there are endless stairways and levels to contend with, sometimes even within a single room. Stay in the newest hotel you can find, where lifts and bathrooms will probably be large enough and will all comply with EU laws. But check details before booking.

The area is very senior-friendly, given the large numbers of international retirees who choose these sunny climes. Many apartment complexes are designed exclusively with seniors in mind, and hotels as well. Seniors also qualify for discounted fees to many sights, travel and even some hotels.

There are several educational organizations that cater to seniors, with extensive residential cultural programmes of all types. In addition, the Junta de Andalucía has a helpline for those who can speak Spanish.

Compared to Northern Europe, attitudes here towards women can be pretty macho. Still, women generally do not encounter harassment and can travel alone without a problem. Naturally, exercise normal care, especially after dark.

The Junta de Andalucía runs several helplines, which are free calls from any phone, but they are Spanish-speaking only.

Many students come to study in Seville, Granada and Córdoba. With a valid International Student ID Card, you’re entitled to some price reductions on entrance fees and travel. There are student information centres in major cities.

Public toilets are scarce, but bars are everywhere and they are legally bound to let you use their facilities. A “S” on the door stands for Señoras (Ladies) and a “C” indicates Caballeros (Gents), although there are variations.

In more cosmopolitan areas, attitudes towards gays and lesbians are relaxed, but less so in rural areas.

Most accommodation options here – unless they specifically request “adults only” – truly welcome families. Hotels often allow you to include any children up to a certain age – sometimes as high as the teens – at no extra charge, except perhaps a nominal fee for the extra bed or two. The best option for most families is a self-catered apartment (see Self-Catering Options).

Most restaurants have special kids’ meals, and some even have separate menus with things that will please children’s palates. Many will also prepare special foods for infants. There are also fast-food restaurants that cater to kids’ tastes.

There are shops galore that focus on what kids want, from toys to beach gear to clothes and gadgets. Most of the stuff is cheap – and cheaply made – so you can stock up on what they need without worrying about the budget.

Some of the theme parks and museums have exhibits and activities, as well as special playgrounds, that are designed entirely with children in mind. Andalucía’s caves, too, are a big hit with youngsters, instilling them with a rich awareness of the wonders of nature.

Besides the sea, the region also has a number of commercial water-parks and amusement parks, replete with slides and other facilities for children to burn up a full-day’s energy. It’s healthy, outdoor fun that the whole family can participate in.

Teenagers of every nationality quickly fall in with each other soon after arrival in the most touristed areas, establishing a routine of beaching it during the day and going out at night. There’s plenty of high-energy action to get up to while the sun shines. When the sun goes down, it’s time to prepare for the forthcoming social whirl.

In the very touristy resorts, which depend on families for much of their trade, many clubs will allow entrance for older teens, although the minimum legal age for drinking is 18. Depending on what curfew, if any, is imposed by parental authority, the dancing can go on till dawn. Spanish in general are very relaxed about the presence of children in bars and pubs.

Many of the larger hotels and resorts have a full programme of activities for guests of every age. These may include water aerobics, water polo, or other exercise regimes – or anything from crafts classes for adults to organized games for pre-schoolers. Most such activities are scheduled on a weekly basis, with a monthly calendar posted in some conspicuous spot in the foyer.

Some hotels also offer babysitting services, especially those that cater primarily to package tourists. The cost of this service may be included in the package, so confirm that it is, if such an option exists. Other hotels may have a play area, supervised by qualified personnel.

Both lunch and dinner hours tend to be late in Spain. Lunchtime is certainly no earlier than 1:30pm and even 3 pm is perfectly normal. Dinner is usually no earlier than 9 pm and sitting down at table as late as 11pm is not unheard of. A reservation is never a bad idea, and smart-casual dress is perfectly fine at most establishments.

As throughout most of the Mediterranean, breakfast here is little more than a coffee and pasta (pastry). Only foreign-run venues offer a full English or American breakfast. Many hotels cater to international taste with a buffet spread.

Tapas (see Andalucían Dishes) are a Spanish institution and nowhere more prevalent than here. Locals eat them as appetizers before heading off to dinner, but a few well-chosen tapas can easily make a full meal. Raciones are larger portions of the same dishes.

Many places offer a menú del día (daily menu) at lunchtime, which usually means considerable savings compared to à la carte prices. You get a very limited choice of a first course (typically soup or salad) and second course (fish or meat, with side orders) and dessert, with water and wine included. Coffee is usually extra, or in place of dessert.

Pork in all its guises is the central meat in the Andalucían diet, with Jabugo mountain-cured ham considered the crowning glory. Duck, rabbit, quail and other game are also quite common, with beef and veal present but not so important. Chicken is very common, and goat and lamb are also featured on many menus all over the region.

Even along the crowded Costa del Sol, the few remaining fishermen still manage to haul in the full bounty that the Mediterranean has to offer. And the abundance from the Atlantic coast is even more impressive. A local speciality is rape (monkfish), and various types of crustacean and shellfish include lobster, crayfish, prawns and mussels (see Bodegas and Wineries).

Favourite side dishes include asparagus, both green and white, and mushrooms sautéed with garlic, as well as whatever vegetables may be at their seasonal best. Fresh fruit is always an option for dessert, along with a range of baked treats and several types of custard.

Wine and beer are the top choices, usually accompanied by a small bottle of mineral water, either still or sparkling. Sangría is prevalent, too, but the regional drink of choice is vino de Jerez (sherry), or one of the sweet wines from Málaga. Coffee can be with or without milk and you can also ask for it descafeinado (decaffienated) (see Top 10 Sherries and Wines).

Such choices are few and far between on most menus around the region. Meat is used in almost everything, and even the vegetable dishes are usually enhanced with a bit of pork. One good recourse would be to have the chef make a salad for you, leaving out any non-vegetarian ingredients. Or head for one of the few vegetarian restaurants.

This extensive region offers a tremendous range of climes and terrains, from sophisticated city life, to mountains, to subtropical beaches, to wild, open plains. If you have the time, sample a bit of all of these, each of them beautiful and satisfying.

Determining your needs and desires before you book will ensure a happier stay. Andalucía has a vast range of accommodation options, from resorts (see Resorts), government-run paradors, often in historic buildings (see Paradors), converted farmhouses (see Rural Retreats), to camping and hostels (see Hostals and Camping). If you want to see many of the region’s sights but only want one base, consider renting a car.

Decide first how much of the region you want to see, and how much time you want to spend in differing terrains. Then choose whether to be based in a bustling area, in a smaller village, or in a more remote location. Options exist right on the sea, up in the mountains, or on private fincas (ranches), either working farms or those that have been transformed into pleasant resorts.

The range of accommodation costs is very wide. You can get pretty much whatever you want in terms of location by spending very little. Andalucía tends to be less expensive than many other destinations of equal or greater quality.

If you plan to visit in high season make reservations as far in advance as possible. The good-value accommodations fill up quickly and even high-end gems can be booked solid in the months of July and August. You will need a credit card number with expiry date to book, and you should confirm every detail – exact dates, type of accommodation, number of beds – with the hotel management by sending an e-mail and/or a fax.

Unless you want to face hours of casting about for a room and possibly not finding anything in your price range, this practice is not recommended here, except in low season when you can, indeed, find plenty of options and good prices. Do be aware, however, that many establishments close for up to several months during the winter.

Tipping in Spain, as in many countries in Europe, is not absolutely necessary. Workers are paid living wages and do not depend on your tips. However, a few coins for services rendered by the hotel staff are never amiss. You can tip porters and bellboys on the spot, and leave something for the maid in your room.

A tax of 7 percent may or may not be included in the quoted price of your accommodation. Parking, phone use and breakfast also may or may not be charged as extra, so determine what you are liable for in advance.

Andalucía is well set up for family travel. With very few exceptions, children are welcome at every hotel or resort, and those under certain ages may even stay free, with no extra charge for rollaway beds or cots. Many hotels have a schedule of events with kids in mind, often at no extra charge.