Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Anatomy of a golf course
Golf is played on an area of land designated as the course. The course consists of a series of holes. A hole means both the hole in the ground into which the ball is played (also called the cup), as well as the total distance from the tee (a pre-determined area from where a ball is first hit) to the green (the low cut area surrounding the actual hole in the ground). Most golf courses consist of eighteen holes.
The first stroke on each hole is done from the Tee (officially, teeing ground), where the player can use a tee (a small wooden or plastic peg), which makes the tee shot easier. Most courses offer a range of Tee boxes to play from, making the hole longer or shorter depending on which Tees the player starts at. Often, the different Tee boxes have names associated with degree of competence (e.g., Professional and Amateur Tees), or by sex and age (Men's, Ladies', Senior, etc.). In addition to a difference in distance, the different Tees may also eliminate or reduce the danger of some hazards for the "Forward" tees, such as water hazards.
After teeing off, a player hits the ball towards the green again from the position at which it came to rest, either from the fairway or from the rough. Playing the ball from the fairway is an advantage because the fairway grass is kept very short and even, allowing the player to cleanly strike the ball, while playing from the rough is a disadvantage because the grass in the rough is generally much longer. Once on the green, the ball is putted (struck with a flat faced club which makes the ball roll along the ground) towards the hole until the ball comes to rest in the cup.
Many holes include hazards, which may be of two types: water hazards (lakes, rivers, etc.) and bunkers. Special rules apply to playing balls that come to rest in a hazard. For example, in a hazard, a player must not touch the ground with his club before playing a ball, not even for a practice swing. A ball in any type of hazard may be played as it lies without penalty. If it cannot be played from the hazard for any reason, it may be removed by hand and dropped outside the hazard within two club lengths of its original position; doing so calls for a penalty of one stroke. If a ball was observed entering a hazard but cannot be found, it may be replaced by dropping another ball outside the hazard along the plane at which it made entry, but no closer to the hole, again at the cost of a one stroke penalty. Exactly where a ball may be dropped outside a hazard is governed by strict rules. Bunkers (or sand traps) are hazards from which the ball is more difficult to play than from grass. As in a water hazard, a ball in a sand trap must be played without previously touching the sand with the club.
The grass of the putting green (or more commonly the green) is cut very short so that a ball can roll easily over distances of several yards. To putt means to play a stroke, usually but not always on the green, wherein the ball does not leave the ground. The direction of growth of individual blades of grass often affects the roll of a golf ball and is called the grain. The slope of the green, called the break, also affects the roll of the ball. The cup is always found within the green, and must have a diameter of 108 mm (4.25 in.) and a depth of at least 100 mm (3.94 in.). Its position on the green is not static and may be changed from day to day. The cup usually has a flag on a pole positioned in it so that it may be seen from some distance, but not necessarily from the tee. This flag and pole combination is often called the pin.
Putting greens are not of all the same quality. Generally, the finest quality greens are well kept so that a ball will roll smoothly over the closely mowed grass. Golfers describe a green as being "fast" if a light stroke of the ball allows it to roll a long distance. Conversely, a green is termed "slow" if a stronger stroke is required to roll the ball the required distance.
The borders of a course are marked as such, and beyond them is out of bounds, that is, ground from which a ball must not be played. Some areas on the course may be designated as ground under repair, meaning that a ball coming to rest in them may be lifted and then played from outside such ground (within two club lengths and no closer to the hole) without penalty. Certain man-made objects on the course are defined as obstructions, and specific rules determine how a golfer may proceed when the play is impeded by these.
Practice range with 43 tees (20 covered)
At most golf courses there are additional facilities that are not part of the course itself. Often there is a practice range or driving range, usually with practice greens, bunkers, and driving areas (where long shots can be practiced). There may even be a practice course (which is often easier to play or shorter than other golf courses). A golf school is often associated with a course or club.
[edit]
Par
A hole is classified by its par. Par is the number of strokes that a skilled golfer should require to complete the hole. For example, a skilled golfer expects to reach the green on a par four hole in two strokes, one from the tee (his "drive"), another to the green (his "approach"), and then roll the ball into the hole with two putts. A golf hole is traditionally either a par three, four, or five. A few par six holes now exist, but will not be found on a traditional golf course.
The par of a hole is primarily, but not exclusively, determined by the distance from tee to green. A typical length for a par three hole is anywhere between 91 and 224 m (100 and 250 yds.), for a par four, between 225 and 434 m (251 and 475 yds.). Par five holes are typically at between 435 and 630 m (476 and 690 yds.), and untraditional par six holes are anything longer. It should be noted that these distances are not absolute rules. For example, it is possible that a 500 yard hole could be classed as a par four since the par for a hole is determined by its 'effective playing length.' If tee to green on a hole is predominantly downhill, it will play shorter than its physical length and may be given a lower par.
Many 18-hole courses have approximately four par-three, ten par-four, and four par-five holes, though other combinations exist and are not less worthy than courses of par 72. Many major championships are contested on courses playing to a par of 70 or 71, and it's not rare to find a worthy test (especially in the British Isles) playing to a par of 69 or lower. In many countries courses are classified by a course rating in addition to the course's par. This rating describes the difficulty of a course and may be used to calculate a golfer's playing handicap for that individual course (
The first stroke on each hole is done from the Tee (officially, teeing ground), where the player can use a tee (a small wooden or plastic peg), which makes the tee shot easier. Most courses offer a range of Tee boxes to play from, making the hole longer or shorter depending on which Tees the player starts at. Often, the different Tee boxes have names associated with degree of competence (e.g., Professional and Amateur Tees), or by sex and age (Men's, Ladies', Senior, etc.). In addition to a difference in distance, the different Tees may also eliminate or reduce the danger of some hazards for the "Forward" tees, such as water hazards.
After teeing off, a player hits the ball towards the green again from the position at which it came to rest, either from the fairway or from the rough. Playing the ball from the fairway is an advantage because the fairway grass is kept very short and even, allowing the player to cleanly strike the ball, while playing from the rough is a disadvantage because the grass in the rough is generally much longer. Once on the green, the ball is putted (struck with a flat faced club which makes the ball roll along the ground) towards the hole until the ball comes to rest in the cup.
Many holes include hazards, which may be of two types: water hazards (lakes, rivers, etc.) and bunkers. Special rules apply to playing balls that come to rest in a hazard. For example, in a hazard, a player must not touch the ground with his club before playing a ball, not even for a practice swing. A ball in any type of hazard may be played as it lies without penalty. If it cannot be played from the hazard for any reason, it may be removed by hand and dropped outside the hazard within two club lengths of its original position; doing so calls for a penalty of one stroke. If a ball was observed entering a hazard but cannot be found, it may be replaced by dropping another ball outside the hazard along the plane at which it made entry, but no closer to the hole, again at the cost of a one stroke penalty. Exactly where a ball may be dropped outside a hazard is governed by strict rules. Bunkers (or sand traps) are hazards from which the ball is more difficult to play than from grass. As in a water hazard, a ball in a sand trap must be played without previously touching the sand with the club.
The grass of the putting green (or more commonly the green) is cut very short so that a ball can roll easily over distances of several yards. To putt means to play a stroke, usually but not always on the green, wherein the ball does not leave the ground. The direction of growth of individual blades of grass often affects the roll of a golf ball and is called the grain. The slope of the green, called the break, also affects the roll of the ball. The cup is always found within the green, and must have a diameter of 108 mm (4.25 in.) and a depth of at least 100 mm (3.94 in.). Its position on the green is not static and may be changed from day to day. The cup usually has a flag on a pole positioned in it so that it may be seen from some distance, but not necessarily from the tee. This flag and pole combination is often called the pin.
Putting greens are not of all the same quality. Generally, the finest quality greens are well kept so that a ball will roll smoothly over the closely mowed grass. Golfers describe a green as being "fast" if a light stroke of the ball allows it to roll a long distance. Conversely, a green is termed "slow" if a stronger stroke is required to roll the ball the required distance.
The borders of a course are marked as such, and beyond them is out of bounds, that is, ground from which a ball must not be played. Some areas on the course may be designated as ground under repair, meaning that a ball coming to rest in them may be lifted and then played from outside such ground (within two club lengths and no closer to the hole) without penalty. Certain man-made objects on the course are defined as obstructions, and specific rules determine how a golfer may proceed when the play is impeded by these.
Practice range with 43 tees (20 covered)
At most golf courses there are additional facilities that are not part of the course itself. Often there is a practice range or driving range, usually with practice greens, bunkers, and driving areas (where long shots can be practiced). There may even be a practice course (which is often easier to play or shorter than other golf courses). A golf school is often associated with a course or club.
[edit]
Par
A hole is classified by its par. Par is the number of strokes that a skilled golfer should require to complete the hole. For example, a skilled golfer expects to reach the green on a par four hole in two strokes, one from the tee (his "drive"), another to the green (his "approach"), and then roll the ball into the hole with two putts. A golf hole is traditionally either a par three, four, or five. A few par six holes now exist, but will not be found on a traditional golf course.
The par of a hole is primarily, but not exclusively, determined by the distance from tee to green. A typical length for a par three hole is anywhere between 91 and 224 m (100 and 250 yds.), for a par four, between 225 and 434 m (251 and 475 yds.). Par five holes are typically at between 435 and 630 m (476 and 690 yds.), and untraditional par six holes are anything longer. It should be noted that these distances are not absolute rules. For example, it is possible that a 500 yard hole could be classed as a par four since the par for a hole is determined by its 'effective playing length.' If tee to green on a hole is predominantly downhill, it will play shorter than its physical length and may be given a lower par.
Many 18-hole courses have approximately four par-three, ten par-four, and four par-five holes, though other combinations exist and are not less worthy than courses of par 72. Many major championships are contested on courses playing to a par of 70 or 71, and it's not rare to find a worthy test (especially in the British Isles) playing to a par of 69 or lower. In many countries courses are classified by a course rating in addition to the course's par. This rating describes the difficulty of a course and may be used to calculate a golfer's playing handicap for that individual course (
Golf in Genral
Golf (gowf in Scots) is a sport in which individual players or teams hit a ball into a hole using various clubs, and also is one of the few ball games that does not use a fixed standard playing area. It is defined in the Rules of Golf as "playing a ball with a club from the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or successive strokes in accordance with the Rules."
Golf is most often said to have originated in Scotland (although see History below), and has been played for at least five centuries in the British Isles. The oldest course in the world is The Old Links at Musselburgh. Golf, in essentially the form we know today, has been played on Scotland's Musselburgh Links since 1672, while earlier versions of the game had been played in the British Isles and the low-countries of Northern Europe for several centuries before that. Although often viewed as an upper class pastime, golf is an increasingly popular sport across all sections of society
Golf is most often said to have originated in Scotland (although see History below), and has been played for at least five centuries in the British Isles. The oldest course in the world is The Old Links at Musselburgh. Golf, in essentially the form we know today, has been played on Scotland's Musselburgh Links since 1672, while earlier versions of the game had been played in the British Isles and the low-countries of Northern Europe for several centuries before that. Although often viewed as an upper class pastime, golf is an increasingly popular sport across all sections of society
Monday, November 06, 2006
malaga Lifestyle
When tourists arrive on the Costa del Sol for their summer holidays or mid-winter break they soon discover that some of their fellow countrymen are so enamoured with the place that they stayed behind when their group went home or organised a move, lock, stock and barrel, or made elaborate plans to retire here when the time came. Immediately the visitors start wondering, "what is life like for foreigners who settle on the Costa del Sol?" The answer is they love every minute of it and wouldn't dream of going home or moving elsewhere after experiencing the lifestyle.
Any initial hiccups are soon smoothed away by the charm of the local people, the Andalusians. Newcomers find plenty of neighbours, whether Spanish or foreign, who speak their language and help them settle in. While foreign residents who do learn to speak Spanish inevitably get more out of their life on the coast as they can communicate with more people and take part in a wider range of activities, it is by no means a necessity. Thousands live very full lives on the coast with only a smattering of the language, while many town halls have set up special offices with staff who speak their language to help them with bureaucracy.
While the language is usually the first question that people ask about, the second is generally the food. Those foreign residents who seek items from their home countries, which years ago were unheard of in Spain, will be surprised to find that almost everything (at least from EU countries) is available here and they need lack nothing. And in addition, there is all that wonderfully healthy Mediterranean food, fish, fruit and vegetables.
And what about the lifestyle? What do foreign residents do with their time if they do not work? This is where the Costa del Sol really comes into its own as it caters for absolutely every type of lifestyle and taste.
First of all, for those who work it provides a very pleasant atmosphere to work in as the Andalusians, always full of vitality and with a ready quip, make extremely congenial colleagues. Foreign residents who have children find that they can choose between sending them to a Spanish school or one in which the system and the language are the same as at home.
And for those who do not work – the majority of foreign residents, far from being in their dotage, are people who have taken early retirement – there are facilities here whatever their hobby or inclinations may be. Those who want a quiet life, live in a rural environment in the startlingly beautiful hinterland or one of the glistening white villages. Those who prefer a more intense social life and an urban ambience stay right on the coast itself. Many are very active retirees who occupy their time with sports – golf and sailing are particularly well catered for, with a high density of golf courses and exquisitely beautiful marinas. Others are pleased to find that with time on their hands they can devote themselves to helping others. The foreign residents – and the range of nationalities is very wide – have founded many charities on the coast. There are also approximately 90 clubs on the coast, organised principally by foreign residents, although they do include Spaniards among their members. Most of the clubs do not limit membership and newcomers are always welcome.
Other activities which hold special interest for the foreign residents are the musical events. The concerts given by the Malaga Symphony Orchestra, conducted generally by the resident conductor Odon Alonso at the Cervantes Theatre in the city are a favourite as are those by the recently created Andalusian Classical Orchestra under the baton of Octav Calleya in Fuengirola.
Any initial hiccups are soon smoothed away by the charm of the local people, the Andalusians. Newcomers find plenty of neighbours, whether Spanish or foreign, who speak their language and help them settle in. While foreign residents who do learn to speak Spanish inevitably get more out of their life on the coast as they can communicate with more people and take part in a wider range of activities, it is by no means a necessity. Thousands live very full lives on the coast with only a smattering of the language, while many town halls have set up special offices with staff who speak their language to help them with bureaucracy.
While the language is usually the first question that people ask about, the second is generally the food. Those foreign residents who seek items from their home countries, which years ago were unheard of in Spain, will be surprised to find that almost everything (at least from EU countries) is available here and they need lack nothing. And in addition, there is all that wonderfully healthy Mediterranean food, fish, fruit and vegetables.
And what about the lifestyle? What do foreign residents do with their time if they do not work? This is where the Costa del Sol really comes into its own as it caters for absolutely every type of lifestyle and taste.
First of all, for those who work it provides a very pleasant atmosphere to work in as the Andalusians, always full of vitality and with a ready quip, make extremely congenial colleagues. Foreign residents who have children find that they can choose between sending them to a Spanish school or one in which the system and the language are the same as at home.
And for those who do not work – the majority of foreign residents, far from being in their dotage, are people who have taken early retirement – there are facilities here whatever their hobby or inclinations may be. Those who want a quiet life, live in a rural environment in the startlingly beautiful hinterland or one of the glistening white villages. Those who prefer a more intense social life and an urban ambience stay right on the coast itself. Many are very active retirees who occupy their time with sports – golf and sailing are particularly well catered for, with a high density of golf courses and exquisitely beautiful marinas. Others are pleased to find that with time on their hands they can devote themselves to helping others. The foreign residents – and the range of nationalities is very wide – have founded many charities on the coast. There are also approximately 90 clubs on the coast, organised principally by foreign residents, although they do include Spaniards among their members. Most of the clubs do not limit membership and newcomers are always welcome.
Other activities which hold special interest for the foreign residents are the musical events. The concerts given by the Malaga Symphony Orchestra, conducted generally by the resident conductor Odon Alonso at the Cervantes Theatre in the city are a favourite as are those by the recently created Andalusian Classical Orchestra under the baton of Octav Calleya in Fuengirola.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
more abt malaga
eanderthal man lived in cave complexes near Malaga many thousands of years ago, this archaeology tells us. As time went on populace increased, & by the time the Bronze Age dawned human presence throughout the Costa was widespread.
Malaga itself took rather longer to emerge. Malaga, with the name ‘Malaka' (fish salting place), was founded by the Phoenicians about 800 BC., and was used as a commercial enclave, following the colonisation that had been initiated 1100 BC. by the foundation of Gadir (Cádiz).
Teatro Romano - MalagaIn the 6th century BC the Phoenicians were replaced by the Greeks, who held the city for just 70 years until conquered by the Carthaginians. They of course were to be embroiled in the Punic wars (ending in 202BC) which saw them expelled from Malaga by the Romans, & eventually the entire peninsular (Spain). Malaga was named Flavia Malacita by the Romans, and further on converted into an important point of passage, as it was connected with other Roman centres on the Peninsula and harbours of the Mediterranean Sea. The Roman Theatre, at the bottom of the Arabian fortress 'Alcazaba', is from this epoch, and despite its small dimensions, is one of the most ancient in the entire Hispania.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Malaga was affected by large migrations and settlements of German tribes, in particular the Silinge vandals who introduced the Arian Credo from the Orient. At the beginning of the 8th Century, the decay of the Gothic monarchy began, and from the coast of North Africa, the Arabs invaded the Iberian Peninsula.
Puerta de Atarazanas - MalagaMalaga fell under their domain in 743. Malaga was converted into a flourishing town, surrounded by a wall with five huge gates. Numerous suburbs composed the town with a route across from east to west connecting the harbour and the Alcazaba with the interior district of the wall. The suburbs were occupied by Genoese merchants and Jews who settled down independently from the rest of the town. Abderramán III had the gate ‘La Puerta de Atarazanas' (above photo) constructed in 13th Century (which is the access to the Central Market nowadays). Though the first attempts of conquest took place in the 14th Century, it was not until near the end of 15th Century when the Catholic Kings achieved it.
Malaga was conquered on the 19th August 1487 (the last town to be conquered was Granada in 1492). Along with the conquest, religious communities were fundamental in urban growth, as they produced the integration of the surrounding suburbs. A big square was created for the first time, the main square, (today Constitution Square), and the convents of Victoria and Trinidad (Trinity) were founded.
A period of optimism was followed by a downturn in Malaga's fortunes. The 16th & 17th centuries were plagued by epidemics & bad harvests, in addition to economical crisis as a result of the expulsion of the Moors.
Catedral de MalagaIn the 17th Century, the harbour was constructed and later on it was extended. Although the works of the Cathedral started in 1528, they were not finished until the 18th Century, when Baroque was in an advanced state. In the same epoch, another extension of the harbour was carried out, and thus, the recuperation of the preceding centuries was reactivated.
In the 19th Century, Malaga began an important development of urban planning where a clear difference between the industrial area and a residential area with huge villas and hotels, was to be noticed. The main streets ‘Calle Marqués de Larios' and ‘Alameda' were opened. The outstanding negative events of the 19th Century were: the economic crisis and politics impacted by the tyranny of King Fernando VII (who Obelisco Plaza de la Merced - Malaga
authorized the illegal shooting of Torrijos and his men.) An obelisk (right photo) was erected to honour the General and his men in the square ‘ Plaza de la Merced ', which today is the centre for cultural activities and popular fiestas. The first decades of the 20th Century were not very prosperous but from the Sixties onwards, the tourist boom in Spain has transformed Malaga. Millions of people have chosen Malaga as the town for their holidays, and thousands as their ideal place to reside. Malaga has become the fifth town of Spain in importance and is one of the modern European capitals, enriched by international diversity and a mixture of different cultures. Since 1992 Malaga has enjoyed a wide infrastructure as to its road system and its magnificent national motorway connections, and its airport is one of the most important in Europe.
Malaga itself took rather longer to emerge. Malaga, with the name ‘Malaka' (fish salting place), was founded by the Phoenicians about 800 BC., and was used as a commercial enclave, following the colonisation that had been initiated 1100 BC. by the foundation of Gadir (Cádiz).
Teatro Romano - MalagaIn the 6th century BC the Phoenicians were replaced by the Greeks, who held the city for just 70 years until conquered by the Carthaginians. They of course were to be embroiled in the Punic wars (ending in 202BC) which saw them expelled from Malaga by the Romans, & eventually the entire peninsular (Spain). Malaga was named Flavia Malacita by the Romans, and further on converted into an important point of passage, as it was connected with other Roman centres on the Peninsula and harbours of the Mediterranean Sea. The Roman Theatre, at the bottom of the Arabian fortress 'Alcazaba', is from this epoch, and despite its small dimensions, is one of the most ancient in the entire Hispania.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Malaga was affected by large migrations and settlements of German tribes, in particular the Silinge vandals who introduced the Arian Credo from the Orient. At the beginning of the 8th Century, the decay of the Gothic monarchy began, and from the coast of North Africa, the Arabs invaded the Iberian Peninsula.
Puerta de Atarazanas - MalagaMalaga fell under their domain in 743. Malaga was converted into a flourishing town, surrounded by a wall with five huge gates. Numerous suburbs composed the town with a route across from east to west connecting the harbour and the Alcazaba with the interior district of the wall. The suburbs were occupied by Genoese merchants and Jews who settled down independently from the rest of the town. Abderramán III had the gate ‘La Puerta de Atarazanas' (above photo) constructed in 13th Century (which is the access to the Central Market nowadays). Though the first attempts of conquest took place in the 14th Century, it was not until near the end of 15th Century when the Catholic Kings achieved it.
Malaga was conquered on the 19th August 1487 (the last town to be conquered was Granada in 1492). Along with the conquest, religious communities were fundamental in urban growth, as they produced the integration of the surrounding suburbs. A big square was created for the first time, the main square, (today Constitution Square), and the convents of Victoria and Trinidad (Trinity) were founded.
A period of optimism was followed by a downturn in Malaga's fortunes. The 16th & 17th centuries were plagued by epidemics & bad harvests, in addition to economical crisis as a result of the expulsion of the Moors.
Catedral de MalagaIn the 17th Century, the harbour was constructed and later on it was extended. Although the works of the Cathedral started in 1528, they were not finished until the 18th Century, when Baroque was in an advanced state. In the same epoch, another extension of the harbour was carried out, and thus, the recuperation of the preceding centuries was reactivated.
In the 19th Century, Malaga began an important development of urban planning where a clear difference between the industrial area and a residential area with huge villas and hotels, was to be noticed. The main streets ‘Calle Marqués de Larios' and ‘Alameda' were opened. The outstanding negative events of the 19th Century were: the economic crisis and politics impacted by the tyranny of King Fernando VII (who Obelisco Plaza de la Merced - Malaga
authorized the illegal shooting of Torrijos and his men.) An obelisk (right photo) was erected to honour the General and his men in the square ‘ Plaza de la Merced ', which today is the centre for cultural activities and popular fiestas. The first decades of the 20th Century were not very prosperous but from the Sixties onwards, the tourist boom in Spain has transformed Malaga. Millions of people have chosen Malaga as the town for their holidays, and thousands as their ideal place to reside. Malaga has become the fifth town of Spain in importance and is one of the modern European capitals, enriched by international diversity and a mixture of different cultures. Since 1992 Malaga has enjoyed a wide infrastructure as to its road system and its magnificent national motorway connections, and its airport is one of the most important in Europe.
About Malaga
Malaga
La Malagueta - Malaga
Bullring and "La Malagueta" beach
City, seaport, and holiday resort in southern Spain, on the Mediterranean Sea. Malaga is the center of the Costa del Sol, a major tourist region.
Population: 547,105 (2003).
Birthplace of Picasso, the attractive, cosmopolitan city of Malaga lies on a beautiful sweep of bay in Andalucia. Blessed with sunshine and a spectacular quality of light, Malaga is a city of wide boulevards, swaying palm trees, lively nightlife, good museums and excellent seafood restaurants.
Malaga mountainsThe coastal area enjoys a privileged Geographical position: protected from the North winds by the mountains, it benefits from the highest average temperatures in Spain and over 300 days of sunlight per year. Rugged and irregular in the eastern part, with rocky projections of land that penetrate the sea, it is milder and sandier in the western area, with large beaches that make it one of the most developed parts of Andalusia, thanks to its demographic and tourist appeal.
La Alcazaba - MalagaThe Moors occupied Malaga 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, Málaga 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 (not counting Antonio Banderas of course!) and there are several galleries showing his work, including the 16th century Museum of Fine Arts, adjacent to the Cathedral.
Pablo Picasso birthplace - MalagaHis 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...).
Museo Picasso Malaga openned a few years ago and is a moving experience of Picasso's lifetime of works. This has become one of Malagas prime attractions The museum is located in an old palace converted into an amazing art experience. It felt very natural and authentic. It must have been the doors and the roof which was done with lots of love and precision by the craftsmen. Seemed they all wanted to pay tribute to their fellow countryman and superior artist. The permanent collection is made up of donations of his grand son and his wife. It was amazing to see the quality of the brush stroke and the maturity of the compositions in works he painted at the age of 16. What is so amazing with Picasso is that there was nothing like him before and nothing like him after. Seeing it here concentrated gives a even greater respect for one of the greatest men of the 20th century.
Málaga's main theatre is the Teatro Cervantes where Antonio Banderas once trod the boards. He still visits.
Tapas - MalagaAs well as being a cultural centre, Malaga is also a great place to eat out. The Malagueños love their food and the bars and restaurants here are where the real social life takes place. The choice is unlimited and, on the whole, reasonable with some bars offering a menu of the day with bread and wine for as little as 6 euros. Tapas, small portions of many different dishes is an Andalusian tradition and a wonderfully inexpensive way to try a variety of local food.
Malaga is famous for its "pescaito frito", a selection of small fried fish such as sardines and red mullet, best washed down with a glass of ice cold fino at one of the many old fashioned bodegas in town. But it is El Palo, to the east of the city which is a typical fisherman's village and the place to go if you want that veritable "catch of the day" freshness.
Taberna - Malaga
In the centre try a tapas and a glass of Malaga wine at Malaga's oldest tapas bar called " Antigua Casa de la Guardia ". Keep to the north side of the Alameda and find no. 16.
Malaga is always closed for the siesta period, so this is a perfect time for a long relaxing lunch.
Malaga boasts one of the highest concentrations of world class golf courses, to the extent that it is often dubbed "The Costa del Golf". For families there are theme parks, including water parks, go-karting, safari parks and many beautiful public gardens. For younger visitors the main areas of attraction are Benalmadena's Puerto Marina & '24 hour square' and Marbella's Puerto Banus. Both are very trendy and chic, but be warned the bars and clubs don't get busy until near midnight and stay open till dawn.
Calle Larios - MalagaThese days, Málaga prides itself on being a modern city with the heart of commerce dominated by Calle Larios which is the local Bond Street equivalent. This is the recommended place to start exploring the city as it is surrounded by attractive small streets and plazas, as well as the magnificent cathedral (Renaissance cathedral with a Baroque façade and choir by Pedro de Mena) which offers daily guided tours.
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 to Antequera one finds the extensive Jardines de la Concepcion .
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 .
We aim to provide the best travel and tourist information, including places to visit, restaurants, nightlife, events, travel tips, the low down on the major resorts and places to visit off the beaten tourist track.
La Malagueta - Malaga
Bullring and "La Malagueta" beach
City, seaport, and holiday resort in southern Spain, on the Mediterranean Sea. Malaga is the center of the Costa del Sol, a major tourist region.
Population: 547,105 (2003).
Birthplace of Picasso, the attractive, cosmopolitan city of Malaga lies on a beautiful sweep of bay in Andalucia. Blessed with sunshine and a spectacular quality of light, Malaga is a city of wide boulevards, swaying palm trees, lively nightlife, good museums and excellent seafood restaurants.
Malaga mountainsThe coastal area enjoys a privileged Geographical position: protected from the North winds by the mountains, it benefits from the highest average temperatures in Spain and over 300 days of sunlight per year. Rugged and irregular in the eastern part, with rocky projections of land that penetrate the sea, it is milder and sandier in the western area, with large beaches that make it one of the most developed parts of Andalusia, thanks to its demographic and tourist appeal.
La Alcazaba - MalagaThe Moors occupied Malaga 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, Málaga 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 (not counting Antonio Banderas of course!) and there are several galleries showing his work, including the 16th century Museum of Fine Arts, adjacent to the Cathedral.
Pablo Picasso birthplace - MalagaHis 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...).
Museo Picasso Malaga openned a few years ago and is a moving experience of Picasso's lifetime of works. This has become one of Malagas prime attractions The museum is located in an old palace converted into an amazing art experience. It felt very natural and authentic. It must have been the doors and the roof which was done with lots of love and precision by the craftsmen. Seemed they all wanted to pay tribute to their fellow countryman and superior artist. The permanent collection is made up of donations of his grand son and his wife. It was amazing to see the quality of the brush stroke and the maturity of the compositions in works he painted at the age of 16. What is so amazing with Picasso is that there was nothing like him before and nothing like him after. Seeing it here concentrated gives a even greater respect for one of the greatest men of the 20th century.
Málaga's main theatre is the Teatro Cervantes where Antonio Banderas once trod the boards. He still visits.
Tapas - MalagaAs well as being a cultural centre, Malaga is also a great place to eat out. The Malagueños love their food and the bars and restaurants here are where the real social life takes place. The choice is unlimited and, on the whole, reasonable with some bars offering a menu of the day with bread and wine for as little as 6 euros. Tapas, small portions of many different dishes is an Andalusian tradition and a wonderfully inexpensive way to try a variety of local food.
Malaga is famous for its "pescaito frito", a selection of small fried fish such as sardines and red mullet, best washed down with a glass of ice cold fino at one of the many old fashioned bodegas in town. But it is El Palo, to the east of the city which is a typical fisherman's village and the place to go if you want that veritable "catch of the day" freshness.
Taberna - Malaga
In the centre try a tapas and a glass of Malaga wine at Malaga's oldest tapas bar called " Antigua Casa de la Guardia ". Keep to the north side of the Alameda and find no. 16.
Malaga is always closed for the siesta period, so this is a perfect time for a long relaxing lunch.
Malaga boasts one of the highest concentrations of world class golf courses, to the extent that it is often dubbed "The Costa del Golf". For families there are theme parks, including water parks, go-karting, safari parks and many beautiful public gardens. For younger visitors the main areas of attraction are Benalmadena's Puerto Marina & '24 hour square' and Marbella's Puerto Banus. Both are very trendy and chic, but be warned the bars and clubs don't get busy until near midnight and stay open till dawn.
Calle Larios - MalagaThese days, Málaga prides itself on being a modern city with the heart of commerce dominated by Calle Larios which is the local Bond Street equivalent. This is the recommended place to start exploring the city as it is surrounded by attractive small streets and plazas, as well as the magnificent cathedral (Renaissance cathedral with a Baroque façade and choir by Pedro de Mena) which offers daily guided tours.
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 to Antequera one finds the extensive Jardines de la Concepcion .
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 .
We aim to provide the best travel and tourist information, including places to visit, restaurants, nightlife, events, travel tips, the low down on the major resorts and places to visit off the beaten tourist track.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Golf in spain
Golf in spain is another area where People collide in huge numbers and talking abt people there are Golf Companies that give touch competition in searching for prospective golfer rich in the pocket and wanna have a good time in Spain.......
Golf Rocks with Good golf Courses offered and Free other facilities
Golf Rocks with Good golf Courses offered and Free other facilities
