Social Scene
Marbella has long enjoyed jet-set status, and celebrities and royals have gathered at the world famous Marbella Club Hotel for decades.
The unique mix of nationalities and cultures is reflected in Marbella's glittering social round of galas, charity events and seemingly never- ending nightlife. Cultural events include ballet, theatre, opera, exhibitions and world class concerts. One will also find a world of high fashion and stunning jewellery in Marbella and Puerto Banus. Here is a great selection of designer furnishings for your sunshine home
Family & Lifestyle
Leisure centres, too, are on the increase. Malaga's Plaza Mayor features a 20 screen cinema, 20-lane bowling alley, a vast gym, indoor/outdoor discotheque, more than 50 bars and restaurants and shops. Moreover, there are theme parks abound throughout the coast. Extremely popular with young children is Tivoli World in Arroyo de la Miel, and Selwo Safari Park a fantastic recreation of the African savannah landscape featuring all manner of exotic animals in a semi-wild setting.
Equestrians are also well catered for in Marbella. Races are held year round at the Costa del Sol Hipodromo in Mijas Costa, while the prestigious Santa Maria Polo Club in Sotogrande is a firm favourite with European aristocracy and visiting Royals.
For skiers, the fabulous Sierra Nevada is a 90 minute drive away, while Tarifa - windsurfing capital of Europe - with its stunning white beaches, is just a short distance from the Costa del Sol.
Fast Forward to the 21st Century
The freedom of EU citizens to work anywhere within Europe has meant that southern Spain has attracted various international corporations eager to set-up shop in a booming marketplace. Central to this development is the growth of internet connections and improved communications with the rest of Europe. In 2002, ten million passengers passed through Malaga International Airport and the airports of Gibraltar, Sevilla and Granada also serve the region. Spain's road network is excellent and the completion of the toll road (A7) along the coast means that all areas are easily and speedily accessible.