The Costa del Sol is a popular tourist destination in Spain, and it's no wonder why. With its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and seemingly endless sunshine, it's an ideal spot for a vacation. But is it safe? The answer is yes, with a few precautions. In general terms, Spain and the Costa del Sol have a lower level of crime than the United Kingdom.
However, there is still a risk of attempted theft, even if it is unsuccessful. To avoid being a victim of petty crime such as wallet theft, be aware of your surroundings and don't carry more money than you need. Men should keep their wallets in their side pockets and keep their hands in their pockets when there are a lot of people around. Women should keep their bags close to them and wear the strap wrapped around their hand. When walking at night, stay in well-lit areas where there are lots of people around.
If it's very late at night, consider taking a taxi back to your accommodation. Be aware of sellers of timeshare shares on the street and don't be pressured into signing anything. If you're booking a coach tour, make sure the company is reputable and legal by checking for their CLAN number. The Internet is also available in many cafes and bars throughout the Costa del Sol. You can use these facilities to stay connected with home or work while on vacation.
Exchange rates vary from day to day, so you can exchange money at your hotel, banks or exchange offices. Be careful when using exchange agencies as some may advertise attractive rates but give you less than expected. The coastal water is safe to drink but it has a different mineral content than water at home, so it's best to stick with bottled water. Postcards can be sent from stores that sell stamps and have facilities to publish them. It can take more than a week for mail to arrive in the UK but there is a faster method available through Royal Mail Agents. The Costa del Sol is well developed in terms of tourism and offers something for all tastes.
The old town of Marbella is an ideal place to look for boutique chi-chi hotels. With its stunning beaches, pleasant climate, and seemingly endless sunshine, the Costa del Sol is an excellent choice for your next vacation in Spain.
