Villefranche
Villefranche is one of the small beach towns nestled between Nice and Monte Carlo. As the train winds from the two major resorts, each stop along the way looks like a postcard. Villefranche and its neighbors, Beaulieu-sur-Mer and St. Jean Cap Ferrat, are part of what's known as the Lower Corniches.
Villefranche's full name is Villefranche-sur-Mer, which literally means on the sea. This is not to be confused with Villefranche-de-Rouergue, another French town further inland. There's no confusion as to what is Villefranche's main attraction. Unquestionably, people flock here for its beautiful beaches. If you arrive in the summer, you had better stake out your spot on the rocks early, or else you will have no room to lay out your beach mat!
The town's charm lies in its reclusive exclusivity. Through the years, the small village has enchanted its share of celebrities who wanted to escape the limelight and find virtual anonymity. Beautiful houses have been built into the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, and these neighborhoods make for wonderful places to stroll after a long day soaking up the sun.
In all likelihood, you'll never leave the beach. Restaurants and shops have sprung up all along the coastline to cater to your every whim, and a day spent in Villefranche should be considered a success if you do as little as possible.
Barcelona
Barcelona has always been a prosperous city , thanks to an exquisite harbor, fertile soil, and a population of hard working, caring citizens. This great city was a strong, incredibly diverse region when Madrid was still a fledgling town with basically no landmarks or significance. The numerous Mediterranean empires that had at one time or another conquered the area brought tremendous influences, much more so than the Iberian presence to the west. Barcelona was most influenced by Rome, Carthage, and France during the Charlemagne era.
The monuments of Barcelona open a book into the rich history of the area. These include the intricate and beautiful Gothic Quarter from the medieval times, the series of Catalan art nouveau, and the surreal artwork of Picasso and Miro. But if you are searching for a little excitement and outdoor fun to mix in with your education and culture, look no further than Barcelona.
In 1992, Barcelona was given a huge boost by serving as home to the Summer Olympic Games. This race to the 21st century was quite beneficial to Barcelona and the neighboring areas, and the restructuring program that became everyone's focus was given the name Post Olympic. As a result of all of this hard work and dedication, Barcelona has recently developed into one of the premier port cities in all of Europe. There are so many fascinating sights and wonderful events; you will be awed by your choices and so much to do. Extraordinary museums and landmarks can be found everywhere in this ancient city with a rich heritage and culture. The Museu Picasso is one of the greatest art exhibits anywhere, and through the center of the old quarter of Barcelona is the gorgeous tree-lined promenade, a visual splendor. The nightlife is truly something, and the shopping is fantastic.
Malaga
Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is home to 550,000 residents and is a marvelous city for visiting and sightseeing. The weather in Malaga is fantastic, and the wide array of activities and interesting features will have you begging for more. No stay is too long in Malaga, and the diversity of the city is magnificent. The port area is comprised of ancient streets and gorgeous foliage, and at the center of the city is a mass of high-rises and government buildings.
The climate of Malaga is subtropical, and the region averages 324 days of sunshine every year. Talk about a prime vacation spot! About a decade ago, crime in Malaga reached an all-time high, as unemployment rates and drug use skyrocketed. Thanks to government programs and aid from nearby cities and countries, the area has improved greatly. Tourism has certainly benefited Malaga. The drug peddling that was occurring on the streets ten years ago has thankfully been virtually eliminated. However, like anywhere, it is still wise to be conscious of your surroundings at all times, and do not leave valuables lying around. As mentioned, taking such care should be the norm whenever traveling, no matter where you are.
The Plaza de Merced, cathedrals, and museums of Malaga make it a remarkable site for studying the history and culture of Spain. The coastline that borders the city is magnificent, and it creates a wonderful backdrop to the ancient land.
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