Essential Tips and Observations

Here are a few insights on the essentials of travel in Andalucia and the Costa del Sol that you may find helpful.  Keep in mind that things change in different seasons and your experience may not match mine-- if so, share a comment with your own story!


Dining Out

• Look for the Menu del Día for the daily specials and deals.  This usually includes three courses (first, second and dessert), but check to see if it also includes your drink, bread, and the usual "cover charge", or if these are extra.  This can be the difference between a deal and paying much more than you thought when you sat down.
• You may have heard that tapas are free with your drink in some places in Spain, but I've found that rare except in Granada.  Elsewhere you're more likely to pay a Euro or two but that's not so bad, you will get a menu of choices that give you more control over your meal and you can order more than you would get with just your beer.
• Tipping is expected in tourist areas, about 10% or so for most meals.  Rounding up is fine, especially for taxis and a simple coffee.
• Yes, you should try the paella, unquestionably.  However there are many other local foods that are worth a try, and tapas gives you the best way to try a range of things to find what you like.  Choose a few items like octopus (pulpo), anchovies (boquerónes) and chorizo without fear since it's only a small portion and low cost.  You may fall in love!
• If you don't eat pork, good luck.  Be sure to ask before eating anything-- items that in the states would almost always be made with chicken or beef, such as meatballs, are more likely made here with pork or, as a substitute for that, fish.  The Spanish live by the idea that bacon makes everything better.
• You haven't tried the chocolate and churros yet? Are you insane? Go, now. Seriously. Right now.
• You can use online reviews to help you choose a place in advance, but keep in mind that a restaurant with lots of reviews might just be in a convenient location for tourists, not necessarily the best food in the city.  Especially if those reviews are in English, not Spanish.  Be a little adventurous and you might find something special.

Where to Stay

There's more than hotels in Spain!  Along the Costa del Sol there are many apartments and villas for rent for a few days or a week which can be a great option too.  Some families in tourist towns like Cordoba and Granada even rent out small service apartments to tourists, which can be a more personal experience.  There are even campgrounds and motor home facilities, sometimes right by the beach. 
http://www.in-spain.info/accommodation-in-spain.htm 

Getting Around

• There are trains and buses that can get you conveniently around Andalucia, but many visitors opt for the freedom of a rental car.  Car rentals are not terribly expensive and may even be cheaper than train tickets during your stay.  Try to rent from an agency near, not inside, Malaga airport- you will get better rates from agencies that are adjacent to the airport and pick you up with a shuttle.  
• Be aware that AP roads are toll roads (Peaje=Toll).  Tolls are upwards of 7 Euros.  These roads are fairly easy to avoid and the alternates are usually more scenic anyway.  So unless you are late for your flight and need to avoid traffic, jump on the more narrow, slightly slower "A" roads for your driving tour.
• Once you get into a town and find parking, you can usually ditch your car.  These ancient cities were made for walking and you'll enjoy them much more if you're not always hunting for a parking spot.
• If you opt for the train, it's easy and convenient around Malaga and nearby towns (about as far as Fuengirola). The train between the airport the main train station takes less than 10 minutes.  Announcements and posted info are available in English.  When buying your ticket at a machine, push the little button at the bottom left corner to switch the language to English.

Other Basics

• I've found Spanish people to be generally helpful, even when you can't communicate in Spanish.  If you are lost or need a hand, try to ask however you can and most will assist you with kindness.  Many areas, especially on the Costa del Sol, have Tourist Offices and Tourism Police who are there specifically to help you.
• Take siesta time seriously.  Not only will you find that yes, businesses really do close between about 2-5pm each day, but that they do so for good reason.  It can get rediculously hot during those hours, so as a tourist on the beach or walking a city during those hours, you're likely to exhaust yourself in the heat.  Just relax, have a cool drink, and go out in the evening!  Things are open quite late so no need to push yourself.  Of course, there are always a few chiringuitos and cafes open to help you pass the afternoon.
• Don't be stupid just because you're on vacation.  Drunk driving is a problem in Spain that you don't need to contribute to.  Walk or get a taxi.  Please.