Spain – The Country
Spain is the second largest and sunniest country in Europe and has been described by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as one of the healthiest climates in the world. The population is around 40 million, allowing the country to retain its beautiful character and landscapes. The average population density is about 80 people per 200 square miles (which is one third of Britains ) and one of the lowest in Europe.

Within Spain there are 17 autonomous regions (communicades autónomas) each with its own president, government, administration and Supreme Court. All of these are funded by the central government. Spain has the fifth largest economy in Europe and accounts for approximately 10% of the EU output. It is, even with some of the more traditional methods, the world's largest producers of olive oil, fourth largest producer of dried fruit and the sixth largest producer of citrus fruits. Spain also boasts some of the largest vineyards in the world. In fact 60% larger than that of France and is considered third largest worldwide wine producer.

Food The traditional dish of Spain is paella. The saffron taste of this rice based dish is best enjoyed with sea views, but can be obtained in most places. Most bars serve food with drinks, known as tapas, and these vary from region to region, but usually include jamon serrano (cured ham), chorizo (a strong garlic sausage) and pulpo gallego (tender pot cooked octopus). Religion 99% of Spain 's population declare themselves Catholic. There are some classic cathedrals, churches and religious sanctuaries.

Geography
Spain covers approximately 492,460 km² of the Iberian Peninsula and 504,740 km² including the Balearic and Canary islands. The country is a vast plain surrounded by mountains, and is the second highest country in Europe ( Switzerland has the highest range).

Calpe The municipal district of Calpe is marked by the impressive Rock of Ifach, an unmistakable sight on the Costa Blanca. The rock has been turned into a Nature Park in 1987 and provides shelter for a variety of plants, such as the rockrose, tree germander and the Ifach mushroom. This immense rock, towering to 332 metres, juts out into the sea to the Punto de Carallot. The Ifach rocky outcrop divides the Calpe coast, which is made up of beaches, inlets and cliffs, into two wide, very sheltered bays, with facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of swimmers and at the same time provide them with a wide range of leisure activities and entertainments.

Benidorm
The popular resort of Benidorm is just a 20-minute drive south from Calpe along the N-332. It offers a lively and energetic atmosphere for the young and young at heart. Benidorm also features the largest water park in Europe , which is among one of the best in the world, as well as two theme parks; Terra Mitica and Terra Natura, both well worth a visit. The Playa de la Levante is one of Benidorm's highlights with its 3 km of golden sands. The west beach of Playa de Poniente is longer and the shoreline is rock free. Here you will find more privacy.

The old town of Benidorm with its narrow streets is still very traditionally Spanish and some great tapas bars can be found here. Benidorm has also become famous more recently as it is home to the tallest building in Spain and the tallest hotel in Europe , the Hotel Grand Bali in La Cala which stands at 210 metres in height.