Spain has always been a European favourite, whether it’s for a holiday or moving to a foreign country. This is particularly true for the Costa del Sol, one of the most international communities in all of Europe.
The majority property transactions to foreigners on the Costa del Sol is influenced by our booming tourism industry. In this two-part article, we’ll visit facts and statistics about tourism and its influence on home buying in Spain, as well as what makes Málaga such an attractive place to live.
Málaga: Home of History and Culture
The city of Málaga is known for its historic beauty and cultural hotspots, as well as its exceptional beaches and gourmet eateries. No matter your interests, Málaga has something for everyone.
Málaga is predominantly known for its history, having been ruled by the Romans, Moors and Christians, to name a few. Historic sites to see include the Alcazaba, Roman Amphitheatre and Málaga Cathedral, each of which have a unique story to tell.
For those who enjoy more modern places to visit, the new Puerto de Málaga, the port, is home to the sleek and modern Pompidou Centre. Other local interesting museums include the Automobile and Fashion Museum and Carmen Thyssen Museum.
Pablo Picasso, a famed Spanish painter and sculptor, was born in Málaga during the late 19th Century. Fans of Picasso are spoilt for choice in the city, with his birthplace and namesake museum being open to the public. In recent years, archaeological excavations in the Pablo Picasso Museum uncovered Phoenician, Roman and medieval walls.
The city is also well known for its endless tapas bars and varied shopping locations. Málaga also offers fantastic transport links, both nationally and internationally, from the Maria Zambrano Train Station or the Málaga Bus Station. A new city Metro and Costa del Sol suburban trainline have proven to be a big hit.
Local Golf Resort Named the Best in Europe
Leading Courses, one of the most trustworthy information sources in the international golfing industry, named total of 14 Spanish golf courses in its 2018 Top 100 List.
Finca Cortesín Hotel, Golf & Spa was awarded the prestigious name of “Best European Golf Resort” for the second year running. The Resort offers some 67 spacious suites, impeccable, manicured gardens, a gorgeous spa, four swimming pools, a beach club, sporting facilities including tennis and padel courts, and a number of exquisite eateries.
Finca Cortesín has hosted a number of famed international tournaments over the years, including the Volvo World Match Play Championship in 2009, 2011 and 2012.
Marbella Offers the Best Hospital in the Nation
The Spanish government recently announced that Marbella’s Costa del Sol Hospital is the best in the country. The 400-bed hospital beat off tough competition from the nation’s 135 hospitals to be awarded the coveted title.
Spain is well known to have some of the best healthcare standards in Europe, with dedicated doctors, impressive innovation and clean, modern health centres. Spain offers exceptional national health insurance, and there are a number of private health insurance options available.
Aside from the public health centres on the Costa del Sol, there are also a number of private clinics, from general healthcare to fertility centres and cosmetic procedure centres.
The Costa del Sol is Truly an International Hub
Málaga International Airport offers an impressive number of national and international flights on a daily basis. Combined with its ease of access to all corners of the Costa del Sol, it makes this Mediterranean coastline one of the most international hubs in all of Europe.
Due to the demand from international holidaymakers and foreign residents, the Costa del Sol is flooded with fine restaurants, beach clubs, family entertainment centres, fashion outlets and more, ensuring everyone’s tastes are covered.
Marbella is synonymous with an international jet-set lifestyle, and Puerto Banús is known for its expensive yachts and attracting A-listers from around the world, including footballers, movie stars and billionaires.
However, if a genuine taste of traditional Spanish life is what you seek, San Pedro de Alcántara, between Puerto Banús and Guadalmina, has retained all its Andalusian charm in the centre of mainland Spain’s most international hub.