Considered "the City of Paradise" by Vicente Aleixandre, the capital of the Costa del sol enjoys one of the finest climates to be found anywhere in Europe. The Alcazaba Fortess, Roman theatre, Cathedral and Gibralforo Castle are the four leading architectural lights, not forgetting the Malagueta Bullring, at the end of the Paseo del Parque.

The majestic Christian processions which line the streets during Easter week and the August Fair offer the best opportunity to witness the city's most popular traditions, traditions which are more than worthy of the visitor's attention. The Verdiales Dance Festival held in the Málaga Mountain on 28 December is a more intimate affair.

Malaga is the major coastal city of Andalucia and is a genuine and typical Andaluz city with a gritty individualism untouched by tourism and the passage of time. The Moors occupied the city until the mid fifteenth century, after which it grew to become one of the foremost merchant centres in the entire Iberian Peninsula. This illustrious past has left its imprint on the historic centre, particularly around La Alcazaba, a fortress which dates back to 1065 and is now a fascinating archaeological museum.

Also worth a visit is the nearby castle which was rebuilt by the Moors and is today a traditional parador (state hotel) with superb panoramic views. During the nineteenth century, Malaga was a popular winter resort for the wealthy famed for its elegance and sophistication. The impressive park on Calle Alameda dates back to this era and is recognised as being one of the most celebrated botanical collections in Europe. During the winter, open air concerts are held here every Sunday which makes a refreshing change from the bucket and spade scenario on the coast. Pablo Picasso is the city's famous son and there are several galleries showing his work, including the 16th century Museum of Fine Arts, adjacent to the Cathedral.

His birthplace in Plaza Merced is today an archive of his life and works and open to the public; the entrance is absolutely free (so are all the services: Documentation Centre, exhibitions, museum, video projections...) Málaga's main theatre is the "Theatro Cervantes". As well as being a cultural centre, Malaga is also a great place to eat out. Tapas, small portions of many different dishes is an Andalusian tradition and a wonderfully inexpensive way to try a variety of local food.

Garden lovers won't be disappointed in Malaga either. In the centre of the city is the beautiful Alameda Gardens, and just outside on the way toAntequera one finds the extensive Jardines de la Concepción. Málaga airport is of course on of the major airports in Spain due to the number of tourist arrivals on charter flights from Northern Europe using Malaga airport as a gateway to the Costa del Sol.