BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL BENEDORM

Benidorm is a lovely city on Spain's Costa Blanca. Its resplendent with white sand beaches on the tranquil Mediterrean, myriad of shops, barsband restaurants. After an approximate 21/2 hour train from Madrid's Atocha Station, we arrived in Alicante, a beautiful and historic port city. From there its a 90 minute tram or 45 minute ( 70 euro) cab ride to Benidorm, but it's well worth it. On our return to Madrid we actually spent a few hours in Alicante, walking the palm lined streets, and and then enjoying a sumptuous, but overpriced, lunch at the very elegant and popular Piripi restaurant...fish, steak, two glasses of wine over $100 euros.

​The newly opened, RHCanfali boutique hotel was our final destination in Benidorm. I don't think the view from the terrace of the crystal clear Mediterrean below and Benidorm island in the distance can ever be duplicated. A wonderful breakfast buffet, featuring both hot and cold items, and unlimited mimosas was included. While we tried several restaurants in town, our favorite was the hotels own, D.VORA. The staff, especially Hind, Alex and Paco, couldn't be friendlier or more accomodating.

An exhilarating day trip is the 20 minute boat ride to Benidorm Island, its a nature reserve with many myths of how it came to be, one involvin a giant who kicked off a piece of the mountain when his wife died. The rock itself is great for hiking; there's a small, but rocky beach for snorkeling or sunbathing; and a cafe with fabulous views and delicious paella. Roundtrip is 15 euros; boats run every hour so there's no need to hurry back.

​Other fun things to do in Benidorm are, photos at the stunning Balcon del Mediterrean, at the end of the Plaza Castelar; parasailing, getting a pedicure at the fish spa, shopping and of course chilling at the beach. And not a drop of rain ever. Paradise!!!